Bañares tops billiards search

MANILA, Philippines - National junior champion Jericho Bañares led roster of winners at the close of the first leg of the 2009 Billiard Stars Search at Star Billiards Center on Saturday night.

The 19 year-old sensation beat Elmer Kalaquian, 9-6, in the final and finished the tournament undefeated. He bested Leonardo Didal (8-2), Luis Saberdo (8-7), Anjobert Huelgas (8-7), Albert Espinosa (8-7), and Alex Nobleza (8-6).

Kalaquian also entered the final without a loss. He beat in succession Al Ortega (8-5), Roland Garcia (8-5), Elvis Calasang (8-3), Macmac Leyba (8-5), and Luis Saberdo (8-2).