Softball seeking Doha trip

Softball, which backed out of Asian Games participation a month ago, may still make it to the Doha meet after all.

The Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (Asaphil) yesterday sought the help of the Philippine Olympic Committee and the Philippine Sports Commission in an attempt to get the nod of the Doha Organizing Committee for its inclusion in the Asiad slated Dec. 1-15.

"Softball has a chance to make it to Doha and we’ll know this if Dagoc approves it on Monday," said The STAR’s source, adding the Asaphil is also coordinating with RP Ambassador to Doha Isias Bigornia to help facilitate softball’s request.

Accommodation, according to Asaphil, will not be a problem since Low Beng Choo, secretary-general of the Softball Confederation of Asia who has close ties with former president Harry Angping, has signified his intention to help.

"We are qualified to play there and we deserve to be there," said Asaphil president Jean Henri Lhuillier, who was formally inducted Wednesday night.

Softball, baseball and water polo are the only team events qualified to play in Doha. Water Polo, however, backed out after failing to raise the necessary funds. — Joey Villar