Sam: ‘Feels incredible’ after first pro crown

LUBAO, Pampanga — Sam Bruce announced her arrival on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour in thrilling fashion, capturing her first professional title at the ICTSI Pradera Verde Championship. The 24-year-old Seattle U graduate showcased remarkable poise and skill, finishing with a birdie-birdie performance on the final two holes to card a final-round 66 at the challenging, wind-swept Pinatubo course on Wednesday.

The victory was especially meaningful for Bruce, who had competed on the European Tour last year but had never won a professional event before. Her ability to handle pressure and execute under the most difficult conditions marked her as a player to watch on the professional circuit.

“This win really means a lot,” said Bruce, reflecting on her achievement. “I’ve come close before, but to finally get this first win — especially at home — feels incredible.”

Bruce began the final round three shots off the lead after posting steady rounds of 72-72. She quickly found her rhythm, delivering a flawless front nine with four birdies. Her key moment came on the back nine, where she added a fifth birdie on No. 10 to move into the lead. Though she stumbled slightly with a bogey on No. 13, she remained composed and came through with clutch birdie putts on Nos. 16 and 17 to seal a two-shot victory with a six-under total of 210 after 54 holes.

“I really felt in control of my putting today,” Bruce said. “Those long putts in the final holes made all the difference.”

Bruce’s closing birdies came at a crucial time as her closest competitors, Daniella Uy and Seoyun Kim, fell just short despite strong performances. Uy carded a final-round 70, while Kim shot a 69, but both finished tied for second at 212.

Sarah Ababa also made a strong move, shooting a bogey-free 68 to finish in fourth at 217. Chanelle Avaricio had a solid 70, sharing fifth place with Tiffany Lee at 219. Lee, who had been tied with Uy at the top after two rounds, struggled early with a double bogey and two bogeys, and although she regained some momentum with three birdies, she faltered with a bogey and a triple-bogey finish.

Bruce’s victory also highlighted her impressive wedge play and long game, which positioned her well for birdie opportunities throughout the round. “I made sure to position myself well on the fairways — not necessarily attacking every drive, but focusing on giving myself as many birdie chances as possible,” she said. “My wedges really set me up for a lot of birdie chances.”

With her first win in the books, Bruce reflected on the challenges of her journey as a professional golfer. “It feels really good. I’ve been a pro for a year and a half now, and sometimes you can play really well, but others can play even better, and you don’t win,” she said. “But today, everything just clicked. I was able to play my best, and it’s an incredible feeling to finally clinch the victory.”

As Bruce looks forward to a promising career, her maiden victory marks the start of what could be a breakout season on the Philippine tour. With a blend of skill, mental toughness, and a growing confidence in her game, Bruce’s future in professional golf looks incredibly bright.

“I’m just getting started, and I can’t wait to see where this takes me,” she added, eager for the next challenge.