Gonzales sets sights higher after JPGT Iloilo romp

Cailey Chanelle Gonzales has made a remarkable impact in the Junior PGT Iloilo Visayas Series, showcasing her talent and potential as a future golfing star.

Dominating the girls’ 10-12 age division in the kickoff leg of the regional series, Gonzales’ performance underscores her promise in the sport.

“My immediate dream is to win an international competition,” said Gonzales, an incoming Grade 6 student at De La Salle-Zobel. Ultimately, she aspires to study in the US and compete with the world’s best golfers.

Competing at the par-70 Iloilo Golf Club, Gonzales posted impressive scores of 74 and 75, securing an emphatic 17-stroke victory in her category.

Encouraged by her remarkable performance, she is committed to playing in the first of two Bacolod tournaments scheduled for June 24-27 in Binitin.

However, Gonzales will skip the July 1-4 event at the Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club to compete in the Junior World in San Diego, an annual gathering of the world’s leading young golfers and emerging talents.

“I’ll play in Bacolod but only in the first tournament,” she said, focusing on her upcoming challenge in San Diego.

Registration for the Bacolod series is ongoing. For details, contact Jhi Castillo at 0928-316-5678 or Shiela Salvania at 0968-311-4101.

Inspired by golfing greats Yuka Saso and Rory McIlroy, Gonzales placed third in the 9-10 division in last year’s inaugural JPGT Series, which focused on the drive-chip-putt format.

This year, the ICTSI-sponsored circuit has evolved to offer full-length, stroke play tournaments across various age categories, starting with the three-leg Luzon series last month.

Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., the organizing body, continues to provide a developmental tour for young golfers, aiming to hone their talent and skills while offering a platform to strengthen their mental game.

The nationwide series, including a four-tournament joust in Mindanao, now spans 14 legs spread over the country’s top championship courses, fostering young talents like Gonzales.