JPGT Riveria golf: Talion, Taruc post dominant wins

SILANG, Cavite – Levonne Talion finally became triumphant after three unsuccessful campaigns in the ICTSI Junior PGT Luzon Series, achieving a commanding 25-stroke win over Maria Montserrat Lapuz in the girls’ 13-15 division with a 76 at the Riviera Golf and Country Club Thursday.

Talion effectively clinched the title in the fourth leg of the seven-stage regional series with rounds of 85 and 80, showcasing a stronger finishing performance to highlight her dominance. She achieved her goal of scoring in the 70s on the softened but challenging Couples course, which she calls home.

Despite a double bogey on the fourth hole after overshooting the green and three-putting, Talion rebounded with a birdie on the next hole. She maintained control with a series of pars, even as she endured bogeys on the 12th, 13th and 15th holes.

Talion finished with a four-over card, bringing her 54-hole total to 241. This victory follows her fourth-place finish in the series’ kickoff leg at Splendido Taal and two third-place efforts at Pradera Verde and Pinewoods, significantly boosting her bid for a spot in the Philippine Match Play Championship at The Country Club in October.

Montserrat posted an 88 for a 266 while Kendra Garingalao rallied with a 79 to edge Visayas Series’ Iloilo leg winner Alexie Gabi, who made an 85, for third after both scored 268s.

"I worked hard to earn this win, so I'm very proud," said Talion, 14, who plays out of Letran Calamba. "I struggled in my past tournaments, so I dedicated more time to practicing my range and focusing on my short game. I knew these improvements would significantly enhance my performance."

Jose Carlos Taruc also shared the spotlight with Talion, dominating the boys’ 13-15 field by 17 strokes with a three-day total of 231, highlighted by a closing two-over 74. Andres Fabie posted a podium finish for the first time at second with a 248 after an 83, while John Paul Agustin, Jr. also carded an 83 for third at 249.

"My goal was to hit fairways and greens, and it became easier today," said Taruc, who intensified his training after finishing sixth in the JPGT kickoff leg at Splendido Taal.

"I focused primarily on my short game and putting for