JPGT: Rising stars shine

BUKIDNON — A mix of fresh faces and familiar names brought energy and excitement to the opening round of the Del Monte JPGT Championship on Tuesday, kicking off the Mindanao leg of the ICTSI Junior PGT Series in style.

In the 7-10 age group, two young guns — Soleil Molde of Davao and Jamie Barnes from Cagayan de Oro — made their mark with impressive rounds that put them in prime position for a breakthrough win in the two-day tilt at the challenging Del Monte Golf Club.

Molde, only eight years old, showed poise beyond her years. The homeschooled standout shot a solid 77 and now leads by three strokes.

“It was fun. I actually expected to lead,” she said, smiling. “One thing I like about golf is its challenges. In golf, you can also make friends with other people.”

Barnes, studying at Wellington College in Bangkok, turned heads with a composed 72, capped by a chip-in birdie on the 14th. Despite being new to the circuit, the 9-year-old already has a growing collection of 14 to 15 titles.

“This is my first time, and I really like this course,” he said.

In the same category, Francesco Geroy posted an 80 after a tough back nine, while Claren Quiño turned in an 82. Sistine Yu and home bet Maegan Langamin rounded out the top five with 86 and 87, respectively.

In the girls’ 11-14 division, Davao’s Kimberly Baroquillo surprised even herself with a gritty 73, spiked by a dramatic 55-foot birdie on the par-3 16th.

“I didn’t expect to score this good. I was playing bad lately, shooting in the 80s,” said the 13-year-old.

Trailing her is Brittany Tamayo, who carded a 75 after a strong 37 on the back nine. Isabella Espina shot an 81, with Bukidnon’s Angel Wahing at 84.

In the boys’ 11-14, Ken Guillermo of CDO fired a two-under 70 to take the solo lead, though Jared Saban of South Cotabato is hot on his heels after a blazing finish for a 71.

“I didn’t expect to shoot two-under, but I just focused on playing the best I could,” said Guillermo. “I think I gave it my all today — hopefully, I can go even lower tomorrow.”

Marcus Dueñas settled for a 77, while Laurence Saban ended with a 79.

Over in the premier 15-18 division, local favorite Alexis Nailga birdied his final hole to finish at even-par 72, two shots ahead of Armando Copok and Nyito Tiongko, who both signed for 74s. Last year’s match play champ Clement Ordeneza is still in the hunt despite a 75.

Mhark Fernando III and Roman Tiongko stayed within reach with rounds of 77 and 78.

In the girls’ 15-18, hometown hopeful Zero Plete surged ahead with a 75, powered by a clutch birdie on her final hole. She now leads by three over Davao’s Precious Zaragosa, who submitted a 78.

“I really want to qualify for the finals — a Ryder Cup-style event — so I’m very motivated,” said Plete. “Hit more fairways and stay steady on the greens.”

Crista Miñoza faltered on the back nine for an 81, while Venice Guillermo (88), Kenley Yu (102), and Santinna Patosa (121) rounded out the division.

The action continues Wednesday with players fighting not just for trophies, but also for points and a coveted spot in the season-ending Elite Junior Finals at The Country Club.