Ha edges Depilo via playoff, captures VEYL Classic

Korean golfer Ha Taewon edged Filipino veteran Rico Depilo in a tense playoff to claim the P250,000 VEYL Classic title at the Aoki course of Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club in General Trias, Cavite, on Friday.

Ha and Depilo both carded two-under-par 70s in regulation, forcing the playoff. The two competitors squared the first two extra holes, setting up a decisive return to the 18th.

On the final playoff hole, Depilo reached the green in regulation, but Ha, whose approach narrowly missed the green, delivered a remarkable chip to within a foot, securing an easy par.

Under pressure, Depilo’s first putt ran four feet past the hole, and he was unable to sink the return putt, sealing Ha’s victory.

Ha’s composure under pressure and excellent short game proved the difference in this thrilling showdown, pocketing the top purse of P30,000.

Randy Garalde and Nilo Salahog tied for third place following identical 71s while Michael Bibat and Dino Villanueva shared fourth spot on 72s.

A playoff also ensued in the teaching pro category with David Clores III nipping Nelbert Salahog after both players turned in 75s. Alone in third place was Mariano Reanturco.

Lone entry Gretchen Villacencio was declared ladies’ champion.

The top finishers in each category:

TOURING PRO

70 — Rico Depilo, Ha Taewon

71 — Randy Garalde, Nilo Salahog

72 — Michael Bibat, Dino Villanueva

73 — Albin Engino, Danny delos Santos

74 — Allan Remata

75 — Christopher Popp, Jhonnel Ababa, Marvin Dumandan

TEACHING PRO

75 — David Clores III, Nelbert Salahog

76 — Mariano Reanturco

77 — Jihoon Lim, Joel Pilac, Claro Molina

78 — Gil Aunzo, Mario Pagunsan, Mharts Rivera, Fredo Casiao.