Amit, Rañola to banner Phl bid in World 10-Ball

MANILA, Philippines - Rubilen Amit and Iris Rañola are expected to banner the Philippines’ bid against the best in the world in the 2012 Yalin Women’s World 10-Ball Championship slated Aug. 20-24 at Robinsons Galleria Mall.

The duo will be among the elite 48 world-class pros and international women superstars vying for the coveted crown won by Kelly Fisher of Great Britain over Taiwanese TP Chen last year.

Rañola reached the Last 16 phase last year while Amit made it to the quarters but lost a close 7-8 decision to Chen.

They, however, hope to contend for the crown this year although they will have their hands full against a crack field in what promises to be another blockbuster event.

Meanwhile, the qualifiers will be held starting today at the Star Billiards Manila.

Also fielding in their entries are the Netherlands, China, Iran, Germany, Japan, Belgium, Korea, Australia, Taiwan, France and the United States.

“This is going to be exciting, watching the matches and results of the premiere women in the sport,” said Mike Serra, vice-president of Championship Cloth and chairman of the Billiard Congress of America.

Meanwhile, OB Cues will be the official cue of the event with the all-American made cue company joining Asia table giant Yalin Billiards, Aramith Balls and TV network broadcasters ABS-CBN and ESPN Star Sports as the event’s chief backers.

Other supporters are Robinson’s Galleria, Star Billiards, Pool & Billiard magazine, Magic 89.9, and Crowne Plaza Galleria Ortigas.