Asistio, Korean set pace in rain

MANILA, Philippines – ICTSI’s Antonio Asistio II and Riviera’s Wang Jeung Hun matched par 72s in driving rains and took the provisional lead as play was suspended in the first round of the Philippine Amateur Golf Championships presented by Samsung at the Eastridge Golf Club in Binangonan, Rizal yesterday.

Asistio and Wang dished out solid forms in wet condition, stringing nines of 36-36 to find themselves on top with just a third of the 109-men’s field completing their rounds as organizers suspended play due to heavy rains.

Alabang’s King Stehmeier carded a 73 while Rufino Bayron, Dante Becierra and Miko Alejando of ICTSI and Calatagan’s Mark Fernando turned in identical 74s along with Southwoods’ John Abdon.

Becierra, the former Hong Kong Am champion, recovered from a woeful 41 at the front with a stirring 33 at the back, putting himself back in contention for one of the 16 spots

The ladies and seniors divisions, however, completed their respective sides with Orchard’s Andrea Unson shooting a 73 to post a three-shot lead over local bet Annie Sabater and Beverly Mendoza of Phil. Navy, who had similar 76s.

Reigning RP Ladies Open champion Louise Manalo struggled with a 78 to fall in the group of fellow ICTSI bet and pre-tournament favorite Dottie Ardina and last year’s runner-up Irina Gabasa of Alta Vista.

OV Espiritu of Manila Golf Club wrested the lead in seniors play with a stunning one-under 71 as he took a five-shot lead over teammate Richie Garcia, who had a76 while Tony Olives of Canlubang carded a 77 for third.