Mendoza, Lago in runaway wins

MANILA, Philippines — Denise Mendoza reinforced her status as the player to beat in the girls’ 7-10 division, while Ethan Lago pulled through in the boys’ side in the ICTSI Negros Occidental Junior PGT Championship at the Marapara course.

Mendoza, a Cebuana standout, built on her opening round 72 and completed a wire-to-wire triumph in the 36-hole tournament with a 70 for a 142 total, sealing a 33-shot victory over Ana Marie Aguilar (87-175).

With her third win following earlier victories in Mactan and Apo, Mendoza has qualified for the Elite Junior Finals set Sept. 30-Oct. 3 at The Country Club.

In the boys’ youngest category, Lago capped off an impressive campaign with a nine-stroke triumph over fellow Davaoeño Lucas Revilleza despite a 76 as he pooled a 146.

Revilleza faltered with a 79 for second at 158 as James Rolida of Cagayan de Oro placed third with a 170.