Lascuña surges to lead by 1 as PGT resumes play
LAUREL, Batangas – Tony Lascuña battled through rainy and windy conditions early Thursday, carding a 68 to take control by one stroke over Lloyd Go at the completion of the second round of the ICTSI Splendido Taal Championship here.
The adverse weather conditions brought out the best and worst from the 42 players who faced the elements, causing tumultuous play after Tuesday’s rain forced the suspension of the second round. As play resumed, Lascuña emerged at the top with a seven-under 137 total, just one stroke ahead of Go, who posted a stellar 67 for a 138.
Keanu Jahns (69), Aidric Chan (71), Clyde Mondilla (72) and Daiya Suzuki (72) all posted identical 139s, making the competition tight. Rupert Zaragosa, who shot the round’s only other five-under card, Fidel Concepcion (71), Angelo Que (72) and Kim Tae Soo (72) all stood at 140, setting the stage for an exciting final 36 holes of the $2 million championship sponsored by ICTSI.
“The course is still in good condition despite the weather, but I don't like the rain because it affects my back, making it difficult for me to turn,” said the 53-year-old Lascuña, acknowledging his physical limitations. “I’ll just enjoy the game and continue what I did in the first two days. If it’s meant to be, then great, if not, there’s always the next tournament.”
Go, despite the challenges, managed a birdie on the eighth hole to cap his impressive 67, positioning himself for another championship bid after his convincing win at Palos Verdes last March.
“It was windy and rainy this morning, making it tougher compared to yesterday,” said Go, who fired five birdies against a bogey before play was halted Wednesday. “I aim to play my best and make as many birdies as I can. It’s going to be a low-scoring week because it’s wet. Driving well is crucial here – if you hit the fairway, it’s easy. But with two more days to go and no weather delays, it’s anyone’s game.”
Mondilla acknowledged the weather's impact, calling it a survival challenge. “The course conditions are tough, affecting tee shots. I hope the weather improves,” said the recent Caliraya Springs leg champion.
Chan, for his part, saw the suspension as beneficial, allowing him to
