Zaragosa, Ordeneza seize early lead

Precious Zaragosa and Clement Ordeneza moved into prime position for spots in the ICTSI North vs. South Elite Junior PGT Finals after seizing first-round leads in the premier 15-18 divisions of the Visayas-Mindanao Series finale on Monday at Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club in Bacolod City.

Zaragosa fired an even-par 70, the best score of the day, to open an eight-shot lead over Apple Gotiong in the girls’ division. Lois Lane Go and Mikela Guillermo trailed further behind after rounds of 80 and 85, respectively.

The Zamboanga standout entered the week with 27 ranking points and needs a strong finish to bolster her bid for a place on the South team in the grand finals.

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“I’m really excited to play in the finals, but I need to win here to secure my slot,” said Zaragosa, who credited her short game for helping offset inconsistent iron play.

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Closer race

The boys’ 15-18 race remained much tighter, with Clement Ordeneza carding a one-over-par 73 to edge Inno Flores by a stroke. Sebastian Sajuela stayed within striking distance with a 75, while Roman Tiongko remained in contention after a 76.

With crucial ranking points still at stake, the division could see movement in the battle for the remaining finals berths.

In the girls’ 11-14 category, Marqaela Dy shot a 74 to take a one-shot lead over Andrea Borromeo. Dy, third in the standings with 30 points, is seeking to secure a place in the finals after missing three legs because of academic commitments.

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“I need to accumulate enough points to break into the finals,” Dy said. “I need to stay in the right mental space and make sure my putts drop.”

Vanya Go led the girls’ 7-10 division with a 74, two shots ahead of Ana Marie Aguilar, while Zoey Mascariñas stood third with an 81.

“The big difference today was that I played more conservatively,” Go said. “I just hope to play even better tomorrow.”

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