'Takas sa Talisay' beach volley tourney gets underway today

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu's top beach volley players will once again test each other's might as the Takas sa Talisay All-Women Beach Volley Invitational kicks off today at the Liberation Park in Brgy. Poblacion, Talisay City.

Southwestern University's Danika Yolanda Gendrauli and Anna Bennova Sabanal are among the early title favorites. Gendrauli, with partner Lorie Mae Layno, is coming from a first runner-up finish in the Visayas leg of the 15th Nestea Beach Volley two weeks ago at the HK Beach Resort in Moalboal.

“We just did the basics as part of our preparations since our training is focused on the indoor volleyball. We will do our best to defend our title,” said Gendrauli, who was paired with Princess Anne Pido in claiming the title last year.

Gendrauli and Sabanal are expected to face tough opposition from Apple Eve Saraum and Rochelle Rica of the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF), Chona Gesulga and Suzette Panis of the University of San Carlos (USC) and Ma. Abegail Praca and Regin Obinque of the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R).

Also set to see action are the equally-tough tandems of Jusabelle Brillo and Marielle Froilan and Katherine Jumapao and Marissa Lagancia.

Aside from medals and trophies, the champion will take home P7,000, while the second to fourth placers will receive P5,000, P3,000 and P2,000. Non-winners will get a consolation prize of P1,000. (FREEMAN)