By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Following a surprise victory at the ICTSI Iloilo Golf Challenge last week, Sarah Ababa heads into her next Ladies Philippine Golf Tour (LPGT) mission in Bacolod City with new-found confidence and momentum.

The seasoned Davaoeña is looking to capitalize on her recent success as she chases back-to-back wins and her third title of the season in the ICTSI Bacolod Challenge, which unfolds on Tuesday, October 15, at the Bacolod Golf and Country Club in Negros Occidental’s Murcia town.

The par-70 Binitin course, known for its tight fairways, tricky roughs and unpredictable greens, mirrors the conditions Ababa just conquered in Iloilo City a week ago.

These familiar challenges provide her with a solid boost as she sets her sights on tying Harmie Constantino’s three leg championships this season.

“I didn’t expect to win because I was struggling with my putting in the first two days, but my ball striking remained consistent,” said Ababa, who currently has two leg titles this season — in Mt. Apo and Iloilo legs.

“I think I was just lucky because my father [Edgar Ababa] caddied for me in both of my wins,” she said.

“He told me to relax because I was putting too much pressure on myself. He said I had what it takes to win,” she added.

Expected to challenge Ababa are Chihiro Ikeda, Mafy Singson, Mikha Fortuna, Chanelle Avaricio, Daniella Uy, and Gretchen Villacencio, who are all in the mix, alongside Princess Superal.

Jiwon Lee, who had an impressive professional debut with a win at Splendido Taal, will also be looking for redemption after two underwhelming performances at Forest Hills and Iloilo./ASC, WDJ