Karatekas start medal bid on Dec. 7

Pasay City - Karatekas Sonny Montalvo along witih Juna Tsukii take centerstage on December 7 as the 30th Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) karatedo competitions unfolds at the World Trade Center.

The multi-titled Montalvo will see action in the men’s individual -55kg kumite while Tsukii is set to show her wares in the women’s individual -50kg division. Also competing on opening day are Sarah Pangilinan and Joco Vazquez in respective kata( competitions.

Local bet Rexor Tacay will also see action in the men individual -67kg ku

mite.

Other members for team Philippines include Jason Macaalay (men’s individual kumite -60kg), Ivan Agustin (men’s individual kumite -75kg), Sarief Afif (men’s individual kumite +75kg), Adam Bondoc (men’s team kata), Mark Manantan (men’s team kata), Mae Soriano (women’s individual kumite -55kg), Joane Orbon (women’s individual kumite -61kg), Jamie Lim (women’s individual kumite +61kg), Rica Torres (women’s team kata), Nicole Dantes (women’s team kata) and Nadene Flores (women’s team kata).

Coaching the RP squad for kumite events are Okay Arpa from Turkey and Junel Perania while for kata are Chino Veguillas and Rhodee Saavedra.

Thirteen gold medals are at stake in the competition.

MEMBERS of team Philippines mostly from the Karate Pilipinas Federation Incorporated pose for a souvenir shot during the 30th SEA Games. The karatedo competitions will be played at the World Trade Center. (photo courtesy of KPFI)