Local bet Adrian Bisera and Bukidnon’s Crista Miñoza dominated their respective divisions in the premier 15-18 category of the JPGT South Pacific Championship at the South Pacific Golf and Residential Estates course in Davao City on Friday.
The Davaoeño kept his composure over the final two rounds to claim victory in the third leg of the Mindanao series.
Bisera scored birdies on Nos. 8 and 9, finishing with a 72 for an even 216 total. AJ Wacay, also from Davao City, was second after a 77 for a 227, while Armand Copok placed with a 79 for a 228 aggregate.
“I double-bogeyed the last hole because I got nervous – there were so many people watching. But I’m still really happy with the win. I just felt I had to deliver,” said the 17-year-old, who regularly trains on the course.
“I just tried to stay relaxed, chatted with my flightmates, and had a few laughs to ease the tension.”
In the girls’ division, Miñoza clinched her first win after placing third in Mactan and posting back-to-back runner-up finishes at Del Monte and Pueblo de Oro.
She carded a 78 for a 226 total to beat Davao’s Merry Rose Wacan, who tallied 228 after a 74. Del Monte leg winner Zero Plete had an 83 for at 243 total.
“I’m really thankful for this victory – winning feels amazing. This win means a lot to me. All the hard work and training really paid off,” said the 17-year-old Miñoza.
“I’d also like to thank my supporters, especially Ms. Tiffany Chua-Copok, and of course my uncle – (golf legend) Frankie Miñoza, for his guidance and encouragement.”
The final leg of the Visayas-Mindanao swing kicks off at Apo Golf and Country Club on July 14. (PNA)
