Kathlyn Bugna and Jan Cadee Dagoon shared the spotlight in two age-group singles finals at the Olongapo Tennis Club National Junior Championships at the OTC courts in Olongapo City last Sunday even as Athena Liwag also made her mark with a victory and a runner-up finish.

The fourth-ranked Bugna reaffirmed her status as a rising star in the tennis scene, overcoming top-seeded local ace Dagoon in a thrilling semifinal duel, 6-4, 7-5. She then dominated No. 2 Dania Bulanadi, clinching the girls’ 18-and-under crown with a decisive 6-4, 6-1 victory in the Group 2 tournament presented by Dunlop.

In a surprising twist, Dagoon had earlier triumphed over La Carlota-Batang Onay’s Bugna in the 16U finals, winning a nail-biting match, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4. This reversal of fortunes underscored the competitive nature of the tournament, reflecting a level playing field where any player could rise to the occasion.

Liwag, also hailing from the host city, showcased her skills by dismantling Abby Castigador 6-1, 6-0 to secure the girls’ 12U title. However, she faced a setback in the 14-and-U championships, where she fell to fellow Olongapo native Ayl Gonzaga, 3-6, 1-6, illustrating the tournament’s unpredictable nature as emerging talents continuously challenge the established players.