There’s no stopping Talavera

No one can seem to really hold Robert Talavera down as the veteran continues to have another memorable year by topping the Pepsi November King of the Lanes Tenpin Bowling Tournament Monday night at the Saipan Bowling Center.

Talavera, who has dominated throughout the year, added another monthly plum to his long list of accomplishments after knocking down a tournament-best 903 pins for an average of 225.75 pins per game.

Familiar with the venue, the SBC lanes supervisor got off on the right foot and took the lead with 228 pins in his first game. He continued to sizzle and followed with 239 pins. He cooled off a bit and bruised 190 pins in his third game, but returned to dominating form and closed his campaign with a strong 246 pins to secure first place.

Talavera was well challenged, though, as Paul Pangelinan finished just 12 pins back for second place.

Like Talavera, Pangelinan got off with a bang as he stayed within striking distance with 224 pins in his opener. He then added 228 pins in his second game to keep the pressure on, and like Talavera, slowed down a bit in the third game with 191 pins.

Determined to make a run at the title, Pangelinan kept his focus and downed 248 pins for a total of 891 pins and an average of 222.75 pins per game.

Kitz Barja finished a distant third with 835 pins with an average of 208.75 pins per game. He fired up 226 pins in his first game, but slid a bit for 174 pins in his second game. He rebounded with 214 and 221 pins in his final two games.

With their performances, Talavera earned $150, Pangelinan pocketed $75, and Barja received $40.

Other top performers include Raul Dumapit and Ador Dimaano. Dumapit was just 20 pins behind Barja with 815 pins, while Dimaano finished with 805 pins for fifth place. Dumapit was able to win $35, while Dimaano won $25.

Also making it to the Top 10 were Alex Cacdac (776), Arnel Del Rosario (774), and Richard Leong (765). Pangelinan and Talavera’s scores from Sunday were also good for the Top 10.

The King of the Lanes is organized by the Saipan Bowling Association and is held monthly, alternating between the Saipan Bowling Center and the Capital Bowling Center.

A season-ending tournament is held every year to determine the King of the Year.