Gahol, Macatula pace national kegfest

MANILA, Philippines - PBA’S Gospel Gahol and MBA’s Rica Macatula set the early pace in the men’s and women’s Open divisions, respectively, of the Philippine Bowling Federation National Bowling Championships that got under way at the Coronado Lanes inside the Starmall in Mandaluyong last Saturday.

Gahol had lines of 629-611 in the first two-game series in the qualifiers for a 1240 tally, 46 pins ahead of PBAP’s Jay-R Tan and 50 in front of veteran Benny Dytoc of PTBA in the inaugural tournament of newly-formed Philippine Bowling Federation recognized by World Bowling and the Philippine Olympic Committee.

Magallanes Bowling Association’s Macatula opened her campaign with a two-game series of 471-458 for a 928 aggregate in the women’s Open class of the kegfest that had its opening ceremonies with PBF chairman, Sen. Tito Sotto, as the guest of honor.

“With all the major stakeholders under the umbrella of the newly-organized PBF, we aim to strive for the excellence that Filipino bowlers used to be known for,” Sotto said. “With the PBF led once again by responsible leaders who know their bowling, we will continue to support the federation. The future of Philippine bowling looks bright. “

Sotto and PBF president Steve Hontiveros led the ceremonial roll of the tourney that drew all of the members of the national team, led by multi-titled veterans Liza del Rosario and Liza Clutario, and the national junior squad handled by PBF secretary general Alex Lim.