Biboy eyes grand exit in Asiad

MANILA, Philippines - The 16th Asian Games in Guangzhou, China could very well be the “swan song” of veteran Biboy Rivera for the Philippine bowling team and he would want to do it with flourish.

“This could be my last year with the Phl team. Hopefully, we’ll be fortunate in the Asian Games so it will be a good exit,” said 2010 World Cup third-placer Rivera, who will lead a 12-member crew to this week’s Asiad with the aim of rebounding from a fruitless campaign in the 2006 edition in Doha.

Rivera has been wearing the national colors in major international competitions since 1996, highlighting his stint with a gold medal in the masters event of the 2006 World Tenpin Bowling Men’s Championships in Busan.

The years of playing have started to take their toll on the knee of Rivera, 36, who had to take painkillers in going through some of his later tournaments, especially the more gruelling ones.

“More or less, my mind’s already set to lay off from the team, although I will still bowl every now and then in (choice) international tournaments,” said Rivera.

With Rivera in the Phl Asiad team are Raoul Miranda, Chester King, Benshir Layoso, Collins Jose, and Frederick Ong in the men’s division. Former world champions Liza del Rosario and Liza Clutario banner the women’s team with 2010 World Cup fifth placer Apple Posadas, Krizziah Tabora, Kimberly Lao and Marian Lara Posadas.

The bowlers seek to at least match the team’s one-gold, two-silver and one-bronze production in the 2002 Asiad in Busan.