Philippines top bowlers in town for 17th Sinulog Open

CEBU, Philippines - Over a hundred pinbusters from all over the country are all set for action as the 17th edition of the annual Sinulog Open National Bowling Tournament kicks off tomorrow at the Gaisano Bowlingplex in Barangay Banilad, Cebu City.

Philippine team members RJ Bautista and Jeff Carabeo and Cebuano SEA Games campaigner Jomar Jumapao are among the top contenders to watch out.

The organizing Bowlingplex Tenpin Association (BTA) of Cebu is also expecting the presence of 2006 world champion Biboy Rivera along with other national team mainstays as competition day draws near.

BTA president Bel Suelto, Jr. said registration will start on Monday yet for out-of-towners. A lot of bowlers are expected to join since it's also the kick-off leg for the 2016 National Bowling Tour.

The qualifying rounds will take place from February 1-6, while the premiere masters open finals gets underway on February 7.

The top 47 bowlers at the end of the six qualifying games will advance into the masters battle. They will be joined by Davao's Sonny Dimaano, who is already seeded being the defending champion.

Aside from the masters, there will also be the team, doubles, all-events and singles title to go after.

Big cash prizes await the top performers. (FREEMAN)