Drexler Reaches Racquetball Semifinals

A cumbersome brace on her right knee didn’t slow Marci Drexler on Saturday as she stepped along the comeback trail.

Drexler, 26, returning to racquetball after reconstructive surgery sidelined her from the women’s professional tour for much of last season, easily moved into the open semifinal round of the Tournament of Terror at Racquetball World in Canoga Park.

Drexler, a Studio City native who now resides in San Diego, justified her No. 1 seeding by defeating Lavonne Wilson of Simi Valley, 15-9, 15-6, and advancing to an 11:30 a.m. match today against Dina Moreland of Claremont.

The other women’s semifinal will pit Mae Chin-Varon of Tarzana against No.-2 seeded Chris Evon of San Diego.

Andy Gross, the top-seeded men’s open player, also breezed into the semifinals.

Gross, 23, from West Los Angeles, toyed with Dave Genevay of Fullerton, 15-1, 15-4. He was ahead in the second game, 12-0, before Genevay was able to score.

Gross’ opponent this afternoon at 12:30 will be Craig Lane of Fountain Valley.

Brad Fenton of Anaheim Hills will test second-seeded John Ivers of Mission Viejo in the other men’s semifinal.

The women’s final is scheduled for 2 p.m., with the men starting one hour later.