SEA Games: Philippines’ Tsukii, Montalvo barge into karatedo finals
MANILA, Philippines–Philippine bets Junna Tsukii and Norman Montalvo are both assured of at least a silver medal after dispatching their respective foes in the Southeast Asian Games’ karate kumite event Saturday at World Trade Center in Pasay City.
Tsukii, a bronze medalist in the 2018 Asian Games, advanced after besting Paweena Raksachart of Thailand, 3-1, in the 50kg semifinal.
Montalvo, meanwhile, had to regain his bearings to overcome Steves Tep of Cambodia, 9-5, in the penultimate round of the 55kg action.
Tsukii, a heavy favorite to win the gold after her surprise performance in the last Asiad, is set to face Thi Huong Dinh of Vietnam for the grand prize.
Montalvo, on the other hand, goes up against Prem Selvam of Malaysia.
The Filipina-Japanese karateka takes the tatami at 3:15 p.m., followed by her compatriot who is scheduled for 3:25 p.m.
Meanwhile, John Vasquez and Sarah Pangilinan try to salvage a bronze medal in their respective individual kata events.