Bayron leads Mercedes-Benz Masters by 2 shots

MANILA, Philippines - Jay Bayron upstaged the fancied men on the Mercedes-Benz Tour despite a closing bogey, turning in an eagle-spiked seven-under 65 for a two-shot lead over Mars Pucay and two others at the start of the MB Masters Philippines at the Manila Southwoods in Carmona, Cavite yesterday.

Playing inspired game with his wife expecting in three months, Bayron tamed the sleek putting surface of Legends course, ramming in six birdies and an eagle to complete a 32-33 round in the $60,000 tournament serving as the kick-off leg of the 10-stage regional tour.

“I had a lot of luck but putted really well,” said the 30-year-old Bayron, whose 65 gave him a two-stroke lead over Pucay, Rey Pagunsan and Malaysia’s Nicholas Fung, who all had 67s.

Pucay, a two-time winner on the Mercedes-Benz Tour and one of the fancied names in the roster, birdied four of the last six holes to gain a share of second.

“It’s a steady start so I am happy with that. The wind gets up on this course so it can be difficult even though it looks straight forward to play,” said Pucay.

Manila-based Dutchman Guido Van Der Valk, local star Juvic Pagunsan, Jun Bernis, and Ramil Bisera, and Thailand’s Varut Chomchalam stayed within striking distance with similar 68s.

Quincy Quek, Singapore’s former national champion, fired a 69 to tie Thailand’s Wittawat Sae-ung and Ebarra Quiachon in 10th place.

Defending champion Wisut Artjanawat from Thailand shot a 70 for a share of 13th with compatriot Namchok Tantipokhakul, last year’s Mercedes-Benz Tour Order of Merit winner.

Pre-tournament favorite Angelo Que, the former RP Open champion, settled for a 71 in a tie with fellow Asian Tour veteran Tony Lascuña and rookie pro Rufino Bayron.

“With an addition to the family on the way, it is certainly a good time to be playing well,” said Bayron, who birdied Nos. 2, 3, 6 and 8 at the front to launch his bid.

The 30-year-old from Davao went further in front with a birdie on No. 13 then came up with a superb 6-iron second shot to set up and eight-foot eagle putt on the par-5 14th. Another birdie on the 17th hole put him equal with the course record but he bogeyed the last for that 65.

Bayron turned professional in 2008 following an excellent amateur career which saw him play for his country on numerous occasions.

He recorded his maiden victory as a professional when he triumphed on the ICTSI-Philippine Golf Tour last season and after yesterday’s performance clearly has his sights on more titles.