Bata, Amit banner RP bid in mixed doubles

MANILA, Philippines - Pool icon Efren “Bata” Reyes and multiple Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Lee Vann Corteza team up with their lady counterparts as they begin their quest in the 2009 World Mixed Doubles Classic today at the Nuvo City Lifestyle Center, C5 corner Calle Industria in Libis, Quezon City.

Reyes will partner with women’s World 10-ball champion Rubilen Amit for the Team Philippines A while Corteza and Fil-Am stunner Shanelle Loraine will spearhead Team Philippines B’s campaign in the six-team event.

The 10-ball tournament, produced by Dragon Promotions, will be telecast live on ESPN Star Sports and ABS-CBN throughout Asia and the Philippines.

Other teams seeing action in the tournament, held in cooperation with Puyat Sports, headed by Aristeo “Putch” Puyat, are Team USA, Team Europe, Team Japan and Team Korea.

Shane Van Boening and Amy Chen banner Team USA while newly crowned World 10-Ball champion Mika Immonen and Borana Andoni will spearhead Team Europe’s title drive.

Team Japan is composed of Hayato Hijikata and Kaori Ebe while Charlie Williams and Eun Ji Park make up Team Korea.