Pantino secures first 12-under crown of the year

ONE OF CEBU ’S top netters Arthur Craig “Igi” Diaz Pantino posted his first 200 points in the 12-under category after he clinched his first title in the category for this year via the 23rd Andrada Cup in Manila.

Pantino, who was seeded first in the category, lambasted Jake Martin, 6-1, 6-0, enroute to the title.

The University of San Carlos-South Campus student ranked second in the category by the end of last year and is determined to become the country’s No.1 12-U player this year.

In the 14-under category, Pantino may have to wait longer for his first-ever title as he faltered last Friday against top seed Julian Dayrit, 3-6, 4-6.

Despite the loss, Pantino is pleased with his game as he was able to bring the match to  deuce several times.

Pantino was ranked 22nd in the 14-under last year and is hoping to enter the top 10 this year as well as grab his first title in the category.

Pantino’s mother Lourdes  said that should her son win at least twice in the 14-under category, he would concentrate on this age group since this year is his last in the 12 under.

The 10-year-old netter will have plenty of time to further improve his game as his next tournament will still be in March.

Pantino will be coming home next week and spend at least a month here to concentrate on his studies. /CORRESPONDENT MARS G. ALISON