Inaugural Alegado Cup pickleball tournament a success

CEBU, Philippines — Pickleball was contested for the first time in the 16-year history of the Alegado Cup - and it was a resounding success.

Consolacion residents got a taste of competitive action in the fast-growing sport through the 1st Mayor Nene Alegado Fiesta Pickleball Tournament held recently at the Paduwa Pickleball Club owned by Neil Maglasang.

The inaugural competition brought together players from different barangays, giving them a platform to showcase their athletic talent and competitive spirit while highlighting the rising popularity of pickleball in the municipality.

Lead organizer Carlos Donn Flores said the maiden event was made possible behind the full support of Consolacion Mayor Teresa “Nene” Alegado and Vice Mayor Joannes “Joyjoy” Alegado, along with Association of Barangay Councils (ABC) President Wesley Alimoren, Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation President Shella Carpina, Sports Commissioner Paul Alelu Flores, and other town officials.

Flores expressed pride and gratitude for the opportunity to lead the purposeful undertaking, adding that the tournament was just the beginning of more exciting pickleball activities for Consolacion.

“Behind every successful event are people who willingly work behind the scenes, and we are grateful for every single one of you!” Flores wrote on Facebook.

“To everyone who became part of the 1st Mayor Nene Alegado Fiesta Pickleball Tournament, whether you helped organize, officiate, compete, volunteer or support from the sidelines, daghan kaayong salamat!” added Flores, who was backed up by technical head Engr. Von Jovi Reuyan Op0orto in running the games.

Meanwhile, Barangay Nangka’s Gelovie Dalaniel and Geralde Romer emerged as champions in the 24-Under men’s doubles, Cabangahan’s Kyra Chloie Famador and Liane Valerie Miñoza clinched the women’s doubles title, while Nangka’s Devie Jane Gillaco and Judgesam Tumabini topped the mixed doubles.

Nangka’s Jude Carlo Balundo and Zudie Karl Balundo secured the crown in the 25+ men’s doubles, Jugan’s Maria Cecilia Go and Lynde Rondina reigned supreme in the women’s division, while Panas’ Dwight Alvio and Emily Rhea Judilla lorded it over in the mixed doubles.

In the ABC/SK category, Pitogo’s Mark Madjos and Anthony Alinsug lifted the championship trophy in the men’s doubles, Panoypoy’s Nicole Montalla and Ashley Bontilao ruled the women’s doubles, while Jugan’s Licero “Boy” Dumadag and Julianne Ybañez dominated the mixed doubles. — (FREEMAN)