By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Pickleball players showcased their abilities during the recently-concluded 1st Bacolod International Pickleball Tournament held at the One Pickleball Hub in Bacolod City.

Medelene Saraza and Patricia Raymundo emerged as winners in the women’s doubles event.

Ko Jou Yu and Eren Penados finished runner-up while Winona Cabardo and Fatima Amirul were third placers.

Neilson Chen and Allen Manlangit topped the men’s doubles event, while John Arcilla and Nik Isagan as well as Kim Saraza and Davis Alano took home the first and second runner-up finishes, respectively.

On the other hand, Chen and Ko bagged the mixed doubles gold medal, with Arcilla and Penados as well as Isagan and Amirus settling for silver and bronze medal finishes, respectively.

Charles Dumancas, host and organizer of the event, personally thanked all athletes, coaches, spectators, and technical team members who contributed to the smooth execution of the tournament.

“This is more than just a tournament, it’s a celebration of athleticism, community and international friendship through sport,” Dumancas said.

“We are grateful to all who joined us and helped put Bacolod on the global pickleball map,” he added./ASC, WDJ