Korean snatches TCC crown

STA. ROSA, Laguna, Philippines — Minwook Gwon clinched The Country Club Invitational title on his first attempt, securing victory with a clutch par in sudden death after Guido van der Valk faltered down the stretch yesterday at the TCC course here.

The 23-year-old Korean, who bogeyed the demanding 18th hole in regulation, carded the day’s best round of 69. But his fortunes turned when Van der Valk, vying for a record-tying feat, struggled with a series of costly errors and limped to a 74, forcing a sudden death after both players finished at three-over 291.

In the playoff, Gwon safely found the center of the green on their return to No. 18 and two-putted for par. Meanwhile, Van der Valk’s approach shot caught a flyer and found the water behind the green. After taking a penalty drop on the fringe, he settled for a bogey, allowing Gwon to seal his maiden professional victory.

“I really wanted to win my first pro tournament. I feel great that I did it in the biggest event on the Philippine Golf Tour,” said Gwon.

The P6 million championship featured an elite 30-player field, including past TCC Invitational winners and top finishers on the Order of Merit. Gwon took home P2 million, while Van der Valk settled for the P1 million runner-up prize.

Reymon Jaraula placed third at 293 after an even-par 72, earning P540,000. LJ Go shot a 76 for a 295 total, finishing fourth with P408,000, while Japan’s Kakeru Ozeki placed fifth at 296 after a 72, taking home P288,000.