Casuga, Pilac squeeze into JPGT Finals

GEN. TRIAS, Cavite , Philippines – Jacob Casuga and Quincy Pilac produced the most valuable runner-up finishes of their young careers, squeezing into the Elite Junior PGT Finals by the slimmest of margins after a dramatic Luzon Series finale at the ICTSI Eagle Ridge Junior PGT Championship here yesterday.

With their championship hopes hanging by a thread, Casuga and Pilac rose to the occasion, each finishing second in their respective divisions to secure enough ranking points and claim the fourth and final Luzon berths to the North vs. South Finals set Aug. 17-20 at Pueblo de Oro Golf and Country Club.

Entering the week ranked sixth in the boys’ 11-14 division, Casuga fired a 75, leaving him at 151 and in second behind Chan Anh, who sealed the title with a 148 total after a 76.

Casuga’s runner-up finish proved enough. He finished the series with 30 points, tying Ryuji Suzuki for fourth overall but claiming the last Finals seat via tiebreak. He joins Anh, Vito Sarines and Javie Bautista on the North squad.

Pilac’s path to the Finals was equally dramatic. Needing a big finish to stay alive, she delivered a clutch closing 72 for a 150 total. Although a late stumble denied her the title, the runner-up effort earned the ranking points she needed to secure the fourth and final girls’ berth.