3rd Roger Abella scrabblefest unfurls today

CEBU, Philippines - Over a hundred scrabble artists from all over Cebu will test each other's mettle as the 3rd Roger Abella Memorial Scrabble Tournament gets underway at Robinsons Cybergate today. Game time starts at 10 a.m.

 Led by the father and son tandem of Dartspeed and Johnspeed Eslao, local players are excited about the event as it is their way of paying tribute to the late Roger Abella who popularized the sport in a highly competitive level here.

Aside from the Eslaos, the other Cebuano word wizards to watch out for are Jowar Ayuno, Louis Candia and Lear Jet de la Cruz.

In the youth class, Jessa Manigos, Charles Canton, Trinah Martinez, Chai Bucao, Carmelo Arranguez, Jangari Mayol and Drago Cabuguas make up the list of top contenders.

The one-day tilt organized by the Cebu Scrabble Association in partnership with the Cebu City Sports Commission and DepEd-Cebu City division features the professional and youth categories.

The pro action is for the professionals and college players, while the youth is for elementary and secondary students. They will play in a five-round modified King of the Hill format.

Cash prizes, medals and trophies will be awarded to the winners of the event sponsored by Robinsons Fuente, Robinsons Cybergate and Rose Pharmacy.

There will also be a special award for the highest single turn and highest single game in each category. (FREEMAN)