Galve rules 2nd Olongapo City Open 10-ball tournament

P200K richer. Jonald “Balbon” Galve
of Surigao del Norte pocketed the P200,000 cash prize for winning the star-studded 2nd Olongapo City Open 10-Ball Tournament held at the Hotel Casino Filipino in Olongapo. Galve defeated last year runner-up James Aranas of General Trias, Cavite, following a thrilling hill–hill battle in the final rack of a Race to 11 Finals. (Contributed Photo)

 

 

By: Marlon Bernardino

 

 

OLONGAPO City, Zambales, Philippines – Jonald Galve of Surigao del Norte reigned supreme in the 2nd Olongapo City Open 10-ball tournament after a thrilling hill-hill battle with James Aranas of General Trias City, Cavite on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at the Hotel Casino Filipino in Olongapo City.

Galve defeated Aranas. 11-10 victory in the race-to-eleven championship round on alternate break format, to take home the P200,000 top purse. Aranas meanwhile, settled for the P100,000 runner-up purse.

Tied at 10-all, the 34-year-old Galve went on 2 Ball and 10 Ball combination to clinch the title.

On the road to finals, Galve defeated Horace Angor, 9-5, in the round of 16, Carlo Biado, 10-6, in the quarterfinals, and Dean Mark Castronuevo,11-9, in the semifinals to arrange a titular showdown with Aranas, who likewise eliminated Marvin Assis, 9-3, Jolo Aspura, 10-4, and Efren “Bata” Reyes, 11-2, respectively.

It was Reyes who eliminated last year’s champion, Johann Chua, 10-6, in the quarterfinals while Chua ousted Dennis Orcollo, 9-7, in the round of 16.

“I am very happy with my victory tonight because almost all world-class billiards players from the Philippines are here. I would like to thank Jeffrey de Luna for giving me support in my stint here.” said the 34 years old Galve.

It shall be recalled that Chua edged Aranas, 11-10, in the last year’s inauguration 10 ball event.

This PAGCOR-backed P420,000 total pot tournament, was organized by Engr. Rahni Rubiano and assisted by Roland Garcia and Bong Nicdao.