Dy surges with solid 67 to rule US Kids World

MANILA, Philippines - Jed Dy chalked up another golden finish for the Philippines when he came from behind to capture the boys’ 10 years division of the US Kids World Championships in Pinehurst, North Carolina on Saturday (Sunday in Manila).

The son of Ayala Land’s president and chief executive officer Bobby Dy fired a bogey-free five-under-par 67 at the Little River Resort course in the third and final round to overcome a three-stroke deficit and escape with a one-stroke victory over Scott Dunlap of Alabama with a 202.

Dunlap made a 71 and finished second at 203.

Dy birdied No. 16 then watched Dunlap fumble with a bogey for a crucial two-shot swing and a two-shot lead.

The Filipino bet was still three down going to the 11th despite a flawless game but hit three birdies on the next five holes to forge a tie on the 15th.

It was the third US Kids title for Dy who won the 7 years title in 2011 and the 8 years crown in 2012. He lost the 6 and under battle in a playoff in 2010 and was in contention for last year’s 9 years plum going to the last day only to check in late for his tee off and was given a 10-stroke penalty.

Sean Granada placed third in the boys 9 years after a 70-212 and Burberry Zhang came in fourth in the girls 9 years with her 35-109.

Miko Granada tied for ninth in the boys 6 under, Andrew Chua finished 23rd in the boys 7 years and Perry Bucay tied for 67th in boys 11 years. 

“It’s another big day for Philippine junior golf. Our collection of victories recently proves that our development program is working and we promise to do more with the support of our parents and corporate sponsors,” said Luigi Tabuena, president of the Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines.

In the girls division, Lia Duque wound up 53rd in the 7 years and under and Annyka Cayabyab checked in solo eighth in the 10 years bracket.