Bruce scores 1st pro victory

MANILA, Philippines — Sam Bruce heralded her arrival on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour in spectacular fashion, delivering a sensational late surge to clinch her first professional title.

The 24-year-old Seattle U product sealed the ICTSI Pradera Verde Championship with a brilliant birdie-birdie finish for a final-round 66 at the wind-swept Pinatubo course in Lubao, Pampanga.

With the wind dictating play and the lead shifting hands, Bruce rose to the occasion with clutch putts on Nos. 16 and 17 that cemented her two-shot triumph on a 210 total over 54 holes.

“This win really means a lot,” said Bruce, reflecting on her breakthrough. “I’ve come close before, but to finally get this first win – especially at home – feels incredible.”

Meanwhile, Angelo Que weathered a series of errors to salvage a second straight 71 and stay atop the leaderboard in the men’s side with a 210 total.

Carl Corpus, mirrored Que’s 71, bringing his total to 213. He came within one stroke after 13 holes, riding a three-under surge, but his charge faltered with bogeys in two of the last five holes.