Sarah Ababa seizes early lead in ICTSI Negros Classic

Posted by watchmen
October 24, 2024
Posted in SPORTS
SARAH ABABA (ICTSI photo)
SARAH ABABA (ICTSI photo)

By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Sarah Ababa showcased her mental toughness and technical precision in the opening round of the ICTSI Negros Occidental Classic, producing a two-under 68 to claim a three-stroke lead over Daniella Uy at the Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club on Tuesday, October 22.

Tackling the rain-soaked former Marapara layout, which stretched beyond its listed 6,166 yards, the Davaoeña golfer demonstrated the resilience needed to navigate the course’s challenges, heightened by relentless rain from a tropical storm.

The adverse weather softened both fairways and greens, lengthening the course and testing the players’ stamina, strategy and focus.

Despite the harsh conditions, Ababa rose to the occasion with poise and accuracy.

“I didn’t focus on the course conditions. I just aimed to stay consistent,” Ababa said.

“Everything clicked — from my tee shots to putting. My dad-caddie, who helped read the greens, was a big help,” she added.

Meanwhile, Uy, winner in Bacolod last week, tried to challenge Ababa for early control, particularly on the front nine.

However, after a par game at the back, she faltered with three bogeys in her last nine holes despite two birdies, finishing with 71.

“There were some mistakes, but my short game saved me today. Honestly, the weather didn’t bother me too much. On international tours, we’ve played in heavier rain,” Uy said.

“I need to stay committed to my shots on this course,” she added.

Meanwhile, Michael Bibat showcased his resilience and adaptability, battling through relentless rain and unpredictable conditions to claim the first-round lead with a four-under 66 for a two-stroke lead over four others.

“Medyo swerte din because it’s not easy to play under these conditions — rain, wind and difficult pin positions,” said Bibat, whose last victory came in 2022 at Eagle Ridge.

“[The score] could’ve been lower, but I’ll take it,” he added.

Trailing Bibat by two strokes are last week’s Bacolod Challenge winner Reymon Jaraula, veteran Angelo Que, rising star Rupert Zaragosa, and unheralded Francis Morilla, all of whom shot 68s./ASC,  WDJ

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