Patrimonio, Balce off to easy romps

MANILA, Philippines - Christine Patrimonio and Maia Balce scored lopsided victories to lead the winners at the start of the first Olivarez-Philta Open Tennis Championships at the Olivarez Sports Center in Sucat yesterday.

The top seed Patrimonio blanked Arabi Agero, 6-0, 6-0, to set up a second round duel with Balce, who also dominated Hannah Espinosa, 6-3, 6-3.

“It’s a good start,” said Patrimonio. “I just need to stay focused to come up with good results like this in the coming games.”

Joining them in the second round of the women’s singles are former junior standout Jessica Agra and Macy Gonzales, who beat Alyssa Callejo, 6-1, 6-1, and Alyssa Mendoza, 6-1, 6-2, respectively.

In the men’s singles, the top-ranked players also breezed through with straight-set victories.

No. 4 Rolando Ruel Jr. disposed of Renz Anthony Ma, 6-2, 6-1; No. 5 Ronard Joven defeated Michael Tamayo, 6-0, 6-2; No. 8 Juvan Divinagracia trounced Betto Orendain, 6-1, 6-3; and No. 11 Kim Ivor Saraza overwhelmed Kyle Parpan, 6-4, 6-0.

Alexander Lazaro and Kenneth Salvo also outclassed Kyle Joseph, 6-1, 6-0; and Gilbert Estrada, 7-6 (6), 6-3, respectively.

In the ladies’ interclub, Olivarez Sports Center beat Phoenix Tennis Club, 2-1, to cop the crown.

The hosts were led by top seed Edna Olivarez, Rina Caniza, Ann dela Peña, Rose Tiamson, Agnes Canizares and Olivia Raymundo.