Baraquiel leads way in Trans Am

MANILA, Philippines - Sunshine Baraquiel came away with a stirring four-under 68 to emerge the surprise leader in the first round of the 36-hole stroke play elims in the 81st Women’s Trans Amateur Golf Championship in Sheridan, Wyoming Wednesday.

Baraquiel combined a near-impeccable long game with superb iron play, capping her brilliant round with a couple of scrambling pars to humble her fellow ICTSI teammates and the field for a shot at low medal honors at the par-72 Powder Horn Country Club.

She stood two shots clear of Rachel Morris of California, who fired a 70, and three ahead of teammate Cyna Rodriguez and Arizona’s Stephanie Kim, who both carded 71s.

Mia Piccio matched par 72 for a share of fifth with California’s Demi Runas while Jayvie Agojo shot a 73.

Chihiro Ikeda groped for form with a three-over 75 but vowed to come out strong in the second round Thursday even as Lovelynn Guioguio sputtered with a 76.

The top 64 players after two days will advance to the match play stage set Friday.