Forty one female badminton players clashed May 14^th in the second all-women’s tournament dubbed as “Divadminton Power,” which was held at the Arcadia Badminton Club.

The players were divided into novice, intermediate and advance divisions. A modified 21-rally point system of scoring, wherein there are no deuces and the third game is only up to 15 points, made the matches even more intense as competing teams vied for the coveted champion’s trophy.

Novice division champs Chris Lopez and Ina Gonzalez.

In the novice division, Chris Lopez and Ina Gonzalez faced off with fellow PBCAyans Rachel Perea and Mabel Villanueva in a tense finals match. Chris and Ina led the first game by two points. In game two, Rachel and Mabel fought harder by making the match even at 20-all. Ultimately, however, the match was decided in favor of Chris and Ina when Rachel’s attempted flick serve got caught in the net.

Partners Milex Dumale and Lizza Mendoza of LA Valley dominated the intermediate division by also winning a straight victory against Nenette Sapida (PBCA) and Bing Manhilot (Woodshots) at a score of 21-19, 21-13, after beating PBCAyans Virra Ratonel and Grace Bachinela in a three-team single round robin finals.

The advance division also had its share of disappointment for the runners-up when Lui Galang and Ketel Galang (PBCA/Woodshots) snatched the victory from Claire Del Rosario (PBCA) and Adel Ortega (Woodshost) in game three. From a miserly score of one point, the Galang sisters made a dramatic comeback by closing in on Claire and Adel’s gaping lead of eight points, until eventually overtaking them at 12 points to the finish.

The Divadminton Power is being held by PBCA every year to showcase women badminton players’ skills and growing number in this still male-dominated sport. “It’s about time we value the contribution of women in the growth of badminton, who made it more dynamic and interesting as a sport,” explains PBCA President Jun Bautista.