Baraquiel earns medal in Women's Trans Am

MANILA, Philippines -  Sunshine Baraquiel posted her first big victory as she emerged the low medalist in the 36-hole stroke play elims of the 81st Women’s Trans Amateur Golf Championship in Sheridan, Wyoming Thursday.

Baraquiel, one of the young members of the ICTSI golf team, slowed down with a 71 after a solid 68 but still topped the field with a 139, two strokes clear off Madeleine Sheils of Idaho, who shot a 68, and Stephanie Kim of Arizona, who made a 70, for 141s.

Cyna Rodriguez carded a second 71 and tied Kelsey Vines, who fired a 67, and Rachel Morris, who matched par 72, for third at 142.

“Sunshine is playing superb golf. Her ball striking is solid and has been putting very well,” said ICTSI team coach Bong Lopez.

With Baraquiel and Rodriguez combining for 281, The Country Club-Philippines also ran away with the team championship.

Four other ICTSI bets advanced to the knockout stage of the annual tournament won by Mia Piccio last year with Jayvie Agojo finishing with a 147 after a 74 and Piccio pooling a 148 despite a 76.

Chihiro Ikeda rebounded with a 73 from a 75 for a 148 in a tie with Lovelynn Guioguio, who shot even par 72.

Over in Florida, Dottie Ardina fired a four-under 68 to seize the first round lead in the premier 15-18 division of the Optimist International Junior Golf Championship at the PGA National Golf and Resort at West Palm Beach.