Back-in-form Avaricio rules ICTSI Forest Hills

MANILA, Philippines — Chanelle Avaricio reclaimed her dominance on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour with a commanding performance, capturing the ICTSI Forest Hills Classic title with a six-stroke margin over Mafy Singson after a steady final-round 71 at the Forest Hills Golf and Country Club’s Nicklaus course in Antipolo yesterday.

The 27-year-old former Alabama State standout rode the momentum of a flawless second-round 65, building a comfortable three-shot cushion that allowed her to play the final 18 holes with poise and composure. Taking advantage of the par-5s on the back nine while steering clear of risky plays, Avaricio cruised to a trouble-free 54-hole total of five-under 208.

“It’s nice to win again. It’s been a long time,” said Avaricio, who last hoisted an LPGT trophy in 2023 when she rallied from eight strokes behind to edge Sarah Ababa by one in Negros Occidental.

Meanwhile, Guido van der Valk overcame a shaky start in firing a five-under 67 to catch Reymon Jaraula at the top in a tension-filled third round of the ICTSI Forest Hills Classic men’s play.

After a three-putt bogey on No. 2 and another miscue on No. 5, van der Valk rebounded in spectacular fashion, rattling off six birdies over the final 13 holes, including a clutch eight-footer on the 18th for a 34-33 card and matched Jaraula’s 11-under 202 total.

Jaraula, who held the lead at the halfway mark and remained in control through much of the third round under sweltering conditions, carded a 68 after a roller-coaster day featuring three birdies and two bogeys. A pair of late birdies from No. 16 saved his day.