ICTSI Junior Mindanao Series I: Tamayo, Saban triumph

DAVAO – Brittany Tamayo overcame a dramatic finish to clinch the girls’ 10-12 category title in the ICTSI Junior Mindanao Series I, salvaging a par on the 18th and edging Kimberly Barroquillo in sudden death at the Apo Golf and Country Club course here Wednesday.

Tamayo, who saw her three-stroke lead evaporate with two holes left in regulation, held her nerve in the playoff to secure the victory and gain ranking points needed for the Match Play Championship in October.

The 12-year-old from Notre Dame University in Marbel, South Cotabato seemed poised for an easy win despite losing a five-stroke lead heading into the back nine. However, a triple-bogey on the par-3 16th resulted in an 85, allowing Barroquillo, who parred the last four holes for an 81, to force a playoff at 163 after 36 holes.

Tamayo, however showed resilience in the playoff back at the par-5 No. 18. She reached the green in two, while her Davaoeña rival needed three shots to get there and then three-putted, handing Tamayo the win.

“I was very happy that I won the playoff,” said Tamayo, celebrating her second career sudden death victory. “I had a chance for a birdie in the playoff but three-putted because I was too nervous.”

Tamayo, who plans to compete in next week’s Mindanao Series 2 at South Pacific, emphasized the need to “improve my short game and stay focused.” She expressed gratitude to her parents, coaches and friends for their support.

Davelyn Dy from Cebu finished third with an 87 for a total of 176, edging out Kelsey Bernardino, who shot an 89, in the countback.

In the boys’ 10-12 category, Jared Saban dominated with a remarkable 78, which included a birdie on the 17th, matching Tamayo’s 19-over total of 163. He finished 16 strokes ahead of cousin Laurence Saban, who scored an 88 for a 179 total.

Jared credited his victory to diligent practice in pitching and putting, excelling in hot conditions that firmed up the challenging layout.

Prince Bisera secured third place with a 94, totaling 205.

Fresh from their Junior World Championships stints, Tamayo and Jared Saban gained a strong start for their Match Play finals bids at The Country Club from October 1-4.

In other categories, James