Pacto, Lascuña 6 shots adrift in Cup elims

Robert Pactolerin and Tony Lascuña combined for a three-under par 69 yesterday as the Philippines opened its bid in the Johnnie Walker Asian Nations Cup six strokes behind fancied Korea at the Pinx Golf Club in Cheju Island, Korea.

It was a fine start for the Filipino pair as it placed eighth after the first of two four-ball, best ball format of this event which serves as the region’s qualifier for the EMC World Cup slated in December.

Rounds 2 and 4 will be played under the foursome format with Round 3 another fourball event. The top three finishes will gain World Cup berths in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The Korean tandem of Choi Gwang-soo and Park Nam-sin lived up to its pre-tournament billing as it shot a nine-under 63 to open a two-shot lead over surprise bet Hong Kong and Thailand.

Singapore, Malaysia and Taiwan share fourth place with 66s while Marianas shot a 68 for seventh.

Meanwhile, Frankie Minoza carded a 74 to trail Jumbo Ozaki, firing a 66, by eight strokes at the start of the $1.1 million Bridgestone Open at the Sodegaura Country Club in Chiba, Japan.

Cassius Casas, on the other hand, leaves for the United States tonight to try his luck in the US PGA Qualifying School beginning Monday.