Eslao rules pro class of 2012 Independence Day scrabble

DART ESLAO dominated the professional category of yesterday’s 2012 Independence Day Scrabble Open at the dance studio of the Cebu City Sports Complex.

Eslao, a 36-year-old former varsity player of University of Cebu (UC), staged an  upset as he defeated the multi awarded international word wizard Theodoro Martus of the University of the Visayas (UV), who claimed the second spot.

“I never expected that I can win against Martus,” said Eslao. “I have been working ever since and only manage to practice while I am abroad.”

Eslao is a veteran in the sport of word puzzling as he already clinched four championship titles in the masters category during his varsity years.

Martus finished second to Eslao as he managed five points.  Eslao finished with six.

Natalie Cabaluna rounded off the top three in the professional category followed by Jomar Ayuno and Joana Rose Gerona.

In the high school division John Kyle Villaflor emerged victorious while Lovelyn Catarinin ruled the elementary class.

The tournament was held in line with the celebration of the country’s 114th Independence Day.  /CORRESPONDENT DALE G. ROSAL