Jaraula, Avaricio surge ahead

MANILA, Philippines — Reymon Jaraula showcased a brilliant display of iron play under sweltering conditions to seize a one-stroke lead over Guido van der Valk halfway through the ICTSI Forest Hills Classic in Antipolo yesterday.

Carding a five-under-par 66, Jaraula soared to the top of the leaderboard at eight-under 134 at the Jack Nicklaus-designed course, capping a dramatic second round that saw the top positions shuffle like musical chairs.

Starting the round behind frontrunners Justin Quiban, Van der Valk, Keanu Jahns and Jeffren Lumbo, Jaraula ignited his charge with a birdie on the par-5 16th. He then closed out his front nine with four birdies on Nos. 1, 4, 6 and 9 inside four feet in a dazzling run that showcased his laser-precise approach shots.

Meanwhile, Chanelle Avaricio fired a bogey-free 65 to seize a commanding three-stroke lead over Mafy Singson after two rounds in the LPGT play.

Avaricio, who opened with a steady 72, found her spark early with a birdie-par-birdie start at the back nine. She added another birdie on No. 16 and kept going.