RP sizzles in Asian Schools' kegfest

MANILA, Philippines - Teener Enrico Lorenzo “Enzo” Hernandez bagged four medals, including a gold in singles, to pace the Philippines’ remarkable showing in the recent 12th Asian Schools bowling championships in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Only 14, Hernandez won the gold in the singles competition, a silver each in all-events and boys’ team event and bronze in the tough Masters tiff.

Kenneth Chua, Jayson Tubid and Collins Jose also shared the silver in the team event, while Ederick Florencio snared a bronze medal in boys’ singles.

Long-time bowling patron Alex Lim, who led and bankrolled the Philippine team’s participation in the Asian Schools meet, praised his bowlers and coaches Caloy de Leon. Gene Tonolete, Nico Valderama and Boy Florencio for the country’s successful showing against Asia’s finest youth bowlers.

“They definitely did the country proud,” said Lim. “They held their own against the best in the region.”

Lim said the coaches, who volunteered their services for free and team officials Jerry Lee and Yolly Araullo, also encouraged and inspired the RP campaigners throughout the week-long kegfest.

Chairman Harry Angping of the Philippine Sports Commission was also elated with the bowlers’ showing. 

“We’re happy because the PSC also supported the team’s performance,” said Angping.

The bowlers, who are set to start preparation for the 13th Asian Schools competition to be hosted by Thailand, have been considered by former World Bowler of the Year and Philippine Bowling Congress secretary general Bong Coo as “the country’s future champions”.