Superal downs Shon, gains quarterfinal slot in US golfest

 CEBU, Philippines - Diminutive Princess Superal turned in a superb game in the early going then cruised to a 2&1 victory over Kelly Shon to barge into the quarterfinal round of the Women’s Trans National Golf Championship at the Members Club at Woodcreek in Columbia, South Carolina Thursday.

Superal went 1-up at the turn in sweltering condition and held on to it before taking another hole on the 17th to wrap up the close match for the win that averted an impending shutout for the ICTSI-backed bets.

The 15-year-old Superal earlier routed Collins Bradshaw, 4&2, in the Last 32 phase where she posted a 2-up lead at the turn before cruising to victory. She will take on Rika Park Friday for a spot in the semifinals.

“It’s so hot here and Princess was so exhausted after the grueling day-long struggle,” said ICTSI coach Nestor Mendoza.

Dottie Ardina dropped a heartbreaking setback to Kelsey Vines in a match that took 29 holes to finish, bogeying the final hole from six feet to bow out in the second round of the knockout stage.

Sarah Ababa lost to Kate Scarpetta, 7&6, Jayvie Agojo bowed to Tilly Poulsen, 2&1, and Cyna Rodriguez also dropped a 2&1 decision to Regina Plasencia.

Mia Picco, the US-based ICTSI mainstay, hurdled Aurora Kan, 2&1, but succumbed to Vanessa Koechli, 4&3, in the Last 16.

Rinko Mitsunaga posted the tournament’s biggest upset when she upended low medalist Whitney Hillier, 2&1, in the second round. She sustained her pace and routed Scarpetta, 4&3. (FREEMAN)