Solon stops Sagansay, advances to quarters

MANILA, Philippines - Jamie Solon pulled off a 4-6, 6-3, 4-0 (ret.) victory over Antonio Sagansay to advance to the quarterfinal round of the first Johnny Arcilla Tennis Circuit at BF Almazan in Las Piñas City last Wednesday.

Solon fought back from a first set loss with long rallies and down-the-line shots in scorching heat before clinching the victory after Sagansay retired after the fourth game of the third set of the more than two-hour encounter.

In other results, Johnny Arcilla, under whose name the event is held, defeated Juvan Divinagracia, 6-4, 6-3, while Elbert Anosta also posted a 6-2, 2-0 (ret.) victory over Jun Lagac and Rolando Ruel prevailed over Kim Ivor Saraza, 6-0, 6-2.

Organized by the United Tennis Players of the Philippines (UTPP), headed by its founding chairman Hatta Dimaporo, the Johnny Arcilla Tenns Circuit seeks to bring both amateur and pro tennis players nationwide to compete in the international scene.

“We also want to put up a series of tournaments that will help tennis players enhance and improve their skills too,” Hatta said. “Hopefully, in 2010, we will see about six to 12 tournaments a year.”

Backing the event are Herbalife, Sports Spray and Babolat.