by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor
Both remained unbeaten in group organised events; the success recorded by Elem Alves da Silva being as anticipated, she commenced play as the top seed, the victory secured by Maia Limp de Azevedo somewhat of a surprise.
Elem Alves da Silva finished ahead of Argentina’s Juliana Ailen Frutos with Aline Menese Ferreira, also from Brazil, in third place.
Meanwhile, Carla Maia Limp de Azevedo upset the pecking order by beating top seed, the host nation’s Maria Garrone (6-11, 11-9, 11-5, 7-11, 11-3) to secure first place. Maria Garrone duly concluded matters in the silver medal position with bronze also finishing in Brazilian hands in the guise of Juliana Ferreira da Silva.
“I feel this tournament is a preparation for the Panamerican Championships in Costa Rica. Also, I’m trying to assess my strengths and the things I have to improve before the next tournament arrives.” Maria Garrone
Success for Brazil and in the Women’s Singles events and there could be one more title bound for the South American country.
In Class 3-5, Thais Fraga Severo, the top seed, duly finished in first place in her group, before booking her place in the final courtesy of a penultimate round success against colleague Marliane Amaral Santos (11-7, 11-7, 11-3).
At the final hurdle, Chile’s Tamara Leonelli awaits; she accounted for Argentina’s Nayla Kuell in the penultimate round (8-11, 11-8, 11-4, 11-7), having somewhat surprisingly finished in first place in her group, a group that did not witness the best of fortunes for Brazilian colleague Maria Luiza Pereira Passos, the no.2 seed.
She was beaten by both Tamara Leonelli (11-7, 11-4, 11-7) and Marliane Amaral Santos (6-11, 11-6, 15-13, 11-13, 11-8), thus finishing in third place in the group and not progressing to the main draw. Tamara Leonelli overcame Marliane Amaral Santos (11-6, 11-6, 11-8) to top the group.
Play in the individual events concludes on Wednesday 22nd November.
2017 Copa Tango Para Open: Latest results and forthcoming matches