Davao recovers to sweep JPGT 13-15 titles

DAVAO – After a challenging Wednesday, where they were shut out of the title race in two age categories, the Davao golfers bounced back with a stellar performance on Thursday, claiming the 13-15 division titles in impressive wire-to-wire fashion at the ICTSI JPGT Mindanao Series I at the Apo Golf and Country Club here.

Johanna Uyking showcased her skill with another three-birdie round, carding a three-over 75 and finishing with a 54-hole total of 227 (79-74-75). She won the girls’ title by a commanding 24 strokes over fellow Davaoeña Merry Rose Wacan, who ended with a total of 251 after an 83.

Jed Santinna Patosa, also from Davao, secured third place with a total of 333 following a round of 113.

"It feels great to win for the first time in JPGT. This victory is significant because all my hard work has paid off," said Uyking, who will turn 13 this year. "I expected to win because I had a substantial lead after 36 holes."

Looking ahead to the Mindanao Series 2 at South Pacific Golf and Leisure Estates next week, Uyking plans to prepare diligently and aims to perform at her best while enjoying the game.

In the boys’ division, AJ Wacan demonstrated his class with a 23-shot victory, finishing with a three-day total of 229 after a remarkable closing round of 74.

Despite slipping with a couple of bogeys on the back nine, Wacan pulled away with a birdie on the 13th and finished strongly, putting him comfortably ahead of his competitors.

Joaquin Pasquil, who was eight strokes behind after 36 holes, ended in second place with a total of 252, while Dexter Eiki rallied with an 83 to claim third place with a total of 262. Santi Asuncion of Taguig, previously in third, fell to fourth with a 267 after a final round of 90.

"I’m thrilled to win for the first time in JPGT. Although there was pressure, I played with relaxation and focus," said Wacan, 15, who highlighted his round with three birdies, including a 6-footer on No. 9, a 16-footer on No. 13, and another from pin-length distance on the 18th.

"I will work even harder for the upcoming tournaments," he added, confirming his participation in South Pacific, Del Monte and Cagayan de Oro over the next three weeks.

The victories