Del Monte golfers set for JPGT Bacolod challenge

Talented golfers from the Mindanao region are gearing up to compete in the ICTSI Junior PGT Bacolod Visayas Series, which kicks off today at the Bacolod Golf and Country Club in Binitin, Murcia.

The series marks the first of two Bacolod tournaments in the three-leg JPGT Visayas Series, which began last week in Iloilo.

Keith Pagalan, Simon Wahing, and Coby Langamin will bring excitement to the boys’ premier 16-18 age category. These golfers aim to demonstrate their skills and secure victories that will earn them ranking points towards the national match play finals in October. The nationwide circuit, organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., features 14 legs.

Local favorites John Rey Oro from Bacolod and Rhiena Sinfuego from Iloilo are also competing, seeking back-to-back wins in the 16-18 category, contested over 72 holes. In the 13-15 division, spanning 54 holes, Inno Flores and Alexie Gabi are striving for similar success. Meanwhile, Kurt Flores and Cailey Gonzales (10-12) and Kvan Alburo and Eliana Mendoza (8-9) will compete over 36 holes.

The spotlight, however, is on Pagalan and his teammates from Manolo Fortich High School in Bukidnon. They are set to showcase their talents while preparing for the four-leg JPGT Mindanao Series starting next month. Joining them in the competition is Cavite’s Patrick Tambalque, a category winner in last year’s JPGT national finals and a strong contender throughout the tournament.

“The JPGT operates independently from other junior golf organizations, ensuring no scheduling conflicts and fostering a cooperative atmosphere. This allows for a well-organized series that enhances the experience of all participants and supports their development in the sport,” said a spokesperson from the organizing committee.

Rhiena Sinfuego anticipates a spirited challenge from competitors like Evonne Gotiong, Mikaela Ledesma, Jamela Robles, Breanna Rojas, and her friend Necky Tortosa. Gabi and Flores are preparing for tough competition in the girls’ and boys’ 13-15 class.

The younger categories (8-9 and 10-12) also promise intense competition, with each player confident yet wary of the opposition and the course, which will test their shot-making skills and composure under pressure.

The next Bacolod tournament is scheduled for July 1-4 at the longer, more challenging Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club course, the former Marapara layout, in Bata Subdivision.

Registration is ongoing. For details, contact PGTI’s Jhi Castillo at 0928-316-5678 or Shiela Salvania at 0968-311-4101.