Four-time champion Marian Jade Capadocia outclassed qualifier Alyssa Bornia, 6-1, 6-1, yesterday at the start of the 36th Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Open ladies’ singles at the PCA indoor shell-clay courts in Paco, Manila.
“It’s good to be back here after missing the last two years of the competition. I’ve been competing in different ITF tournaments. Hopefully magamit ko dito yung experience na nakuha ko,” said the 22-year-old Capadocia.
Capadocia had ruled the ladies’ singles competition for four straight years from 2011 to 2014 until the netter decided to focus on international competitions in Netherlands, Belgium, Egypt, France, China, Kazakhstan, Sri Lanka, Singapore and Germany.
The Antique-native Capadocia will face Khryshana Brazal in the second round of the event supported by The Philippine Star, Asian Traders Dunlop, Stronghold Insurance, Whirlpool/Fujidenzo, Head and United Auctioneers.
Brazal’s victory also came easy after Nicole Amistad retired at the final stretch of the first set while trailing, 5-3.
Advancing into the next round were defending titlist Clarice Patrimonio, Khrizelle Sampaton, Shaira Rivera and Madison Kane who won by default over Macie Carlos, Khim Iglupas, Justine Maneja and Gia Sagandoy, respectively.
Rafaella Villanueva, Sydney Ezra Enriquez and Miles Vitaliano also notched their spots in the second round of the competition sponsored by Pearl Garden Hotel, Babolat, Tyrecorp Inc., PVL Restaurant, Greenfield Marketers One, Mary Grace Foods Inc., Kraut Art Glass, Manuel Misa and Antonio Cablitas.