Guardo Sports-Rudy Project badminton blasts off this morning at Metrosports

Around 300 shuttlecock artists will gather this 8am at the Metrosports Badminton Club in Brgy. Lahug, this city, for the opening of the keenly-awaited 1st Guardo Sports-Rudy Project National Badminton Championships.

The event formally kicks off with the parade of participants around Lahug area.

The members Southwestern University's Sinulog contingent will render a colorful dance presentation to entertain the competitors and the spectators as well.

Among the dignitaries invited to grace the opening bash are Governor Gwen Garcia, Cebu City Vice Mayor Michael Rama, councilor Joy Pesquera, and Danao City Sports Commission chairman Oscar "Boying" Rodriguez.

The tournament is divided into three levels: C, D and E. The mixed doubles will be contested today, while the men's and women's doubles will be played tomorrow.

Actress Beth Tamayo and Malou Santos will compete in the two-day tilt, which will give away gift items from Rudy Project aside from cash prizes to the winners.

There will be a cocktail party at 8:00 tonight at the Teatro Casino of Waterfront Hotel-Lahug that will also serve as a launching party for Rudy Project Eyewear's 2006 collection.

The tournament is also supported by Mobile Gear, San Miguel Corp., PAGCOR, Waterfront Hotel, Lahug, Avia, Cebu TV Cannel 28, RCTV, Killerbee, Monster Radio, Sunstar, The Freeman, Cebu Daily News, Cebu Grand Hotel, Purefoods, Converse, Globelines, Sulpicio Lines, Viva Mineral Water, Gerry's Grill, Flame It, Cebu Pacific, Powerade and Coffee Dream.

For inquiries, one may call Tonette Lim at 0919-4335282 or Harry at 0198773194 or the Metrosports office at 233-3338.