Chan shares PGT lead with Bibat; Kim up by three

MANILA, Philippines — Aidric Chan and Michael Bibat, who had contrasting finishes in the previous Philippine Golf Tour leg at Caliraya Springs, found common ground at the ICTSI Bacolod Golf Challenge yesterday, both carding impressive six-under-par 64s to seize a share of the first-round lead over Randy Garalde.

Despite the unpredictable weather – a seesaw of sun and rain – both players turned in composed and calculated rounds to set the pace in the P2 million tournament.

Chan, who finished tied for seventh at Caliraya, delivered a highlight-reel moment on the par-5 15th. After missing his tee shot, he recovered with a solid 4-iron second shot from 236 yards that landed in front of the green. He then watched his long putt drop for an eagle.

“I luckily hit a good second shot and made a long putt,” said Chan, who posted a pair of 32s that included five birdies against one bogey.

He also credited his strong start to playing in a competitive group that included Bibat and Ryan Monsalve, who also eagled No. 15 for a 67, and a key tune-up session with his coach and fellow competitor, Tony Lascuña.

“Before I left, I had a tune-up with coach Tony. That helped a lot with my confidence and ball-striking,” he said. “And being grouped with Mike and Ryan and – there was that competitive push, but we were cheering each other on too.”

In the ladies side, Korean Seo Yun Kim carded a brilliant four-under 66 to seize a three-stroke lead over defending champion Daniella Uy and Kristine Fleetwood and position herself for a breakthrough victory in the P750,000 tournament.

“I just wanted to stay calm on the tee box. No pressure,” said Kim. “There was no specific key to my game – I just practiced well and stayed in rhythm. I didn’t overthink.”