MANILA, Philippines - Robert Pactolerin mastered the field in a triumphant return to his old home, assembling a two-day aggregate of 135 to beat Danny delos Santos by eight strokes and capture the SPGAP (Senior Professional Golfers’ Association of the Philippines.) Masters Challenge crown at Villamor yesterday.
Pactolerin, a many-time Masters champion at Villamor, fired a three-under 69 in the first day then sizzled with a six-under 66 to dominate the 40-player field in the 36-hole tournament sponsored by Noel de Luna, Rep. Pedro Unabia, PSupt Ringo Licup, Noli Singca and Lino Agapito.
Delos Santos matched par 72 in the first round then closed out with a 71 for a 143 for second while Danny Fortusa made two 73s for a 146 to finish third.
Ernie Rellon kept Pactolerin within sight with a 70 in the first round but the former Davao Pro-Am winner wavered with a 78 and slid to fourth with a 148 while Juanito Pagunsan rallied with a 72 in the second day to salvage fifth place at 150.
Fred Superal and Rey Alit finished tied for sixth at 154 while Rodolfo Enema wound up eighth with a 155 followed by Arnold Gomez and Roger Retuerto, who shared 10th place at 156.