Phl para bets begin Nagoya medal quest

NAGOYA, Japan — The 69-strong Philippine team formally begin its medal quest in the 5th Para Asian Games on Monday following a grand spectacle during the opening rites at the Paloma Mizuho Sports Park.

Flag-bearers Lhey Manginsay of table tennis and Allain Ganapin of taekwondo, along with chef-de-mission Francis Diaz and deputy CDM Judd Anastacio, joined the parade in Filipiniana attire and proudly marched with joy and optimism.

Manginsay came into the inaugurals riding the crest of an 11-9, 12-10, 11-1 victory over Tajikistan’s Nadima Nurbekova in the women’s singles class 9 in table tennis at the Sky Hall Toyota the day before.

Whatever happens, Manginsay will make the quarterfinals since there are only eight participants in her category.

But, of course, that triumph should be vital for the 22-year-old Zamboanga Sibugay native not only for her confidence but also help her avoid stronger and higher-seeded opponents in the Round of Eight.

It also eases the pain of a 9-11, 10-12, 1-11 defeat to three-time Paralympic gold medalist Mao Jingdian of China last Friday.