Suzuki, Abalos champs in JPGT Splendido

LAUREL, Batangas, Philippines — Ryuji Suzuki and Maurysse Abalos shone brightly in the Junior Philippine Golf Tour Luzon Series, pulling off thrilling victories in the 8-10 age category with a 79 and 95, respectively, at the Splendido Taal Golf Club yesterday.

Suzuki blew a six-shot lead but maintained his composure in the stretch and capitalized on Jose Luis Espinosa’s costly bogey on No. 7 for a one-stroke victory in the boys’ division despite a seven-over card for a 36-hole total of 157.

In the premier 72-hole, 15-18 category, Zachary Villaroman stormed ahead, posting a 77 for a 155 and a six-shot lead as first-round leader Charles Serdenia slowed down with an 86 to slip to second at 161.

Alexander Crisostomo carded an 81 for third at 164.

Jiwon Lee also claimed a commanding lead in the girls’ centerpiece division, carding a 74 for a 154, four strokes ahead of first round leader Lia Duque, who struggled with an 82 for a 158. Rafa Anciano remained at distant third spot at 171 after an 86.

The tournament, organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., aims to boost the sport and discover new talents through its country-wide circuit, including three legs in the Visayas and four in Mindanao.