Bernardino one stroke ahead in JPGT Visayas leg

BACOLOD, Philippines —   Tiffany Bernardino survived a four-way battle at the challenging Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club course here, carding an 86 for a one-strok.. e lead over Alexie Gabi at the start of the ICTSI JPGT Visayas Series 3 yesterday.

Starting at the backside of the tricky par-70 layout, Bernardino narrowly edged out Gabi, 44-45, and endured a shaky finish at the front to match Gabi’s closing 42 in one of the most competitive age categories of the four-division series organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

Bernardino, who bested Gabi and Rane Chiu by a single stroke in last week’s Bacolod leg of the three-stage regional series in Murcia, now leads the race for the top two spots for the national finals. But Gabi, who topped the first leg in Iloilo, stood just a stroke behind with 87, while Chiu and Louise Jalandoni posted 91 and 99, respectively.

The upcoming rounds of the 54-hole tournament are critical for the trio in their quest for the two coveted spots in the Match Play finals for the Visayas series.

“Tomorrow is crucial. I need to hit my target,” said Bernardino.

Chiu, who is five strokes behind, stressed the importance of the second round to her campaign, saying, “I need to work on my confidence and course management.”

Jalandoni remained in contention, finishing the backside with a 44, while Chiu posted a 47. However, Jalandoni faltered in the last nine holes, ending with a 53 for a 99, while Chiu fought back with a 44 for a 91.