BACOLOD. – Patrick Tambalque and Dominique Gotiong delivered standout final-round performances in their title runs in the 16-18 age category of the ICTSI Junior Philippine Golf Tour Visayas Series in Murcia, Binitin here Thursday.
While Gotiong maintained a commanding lead throughout in the girls’ division, Tambalque faced a challenging journey in the boys’ class, overcoming tough competition from Simon Wahing with a gritty even-par 70 to post a six-stroke victory on a seven-over 287 total at the Bacolod Golf and Country Club.
“Overall, I played very well, and made birdies I didn’t expect,” said Tambalque with a sense of accomplishment. His game was a delicate blend of successes and setbacks, as he managed to score four birdies, offsetting an equal number of bogeys.
Tambalque, 16, viewed the experience as a valuable lesson. “It’s a good learning experience. I learned how to be patient — even if I made a mistake, there is still a chance to recover,” he said, emphasizing the importance of perseverance.
Gotiong made a successful JPGT debut with an 86 for a total of 331, finishing 18 strokes ahead of Iloilo leg winner Rhiena Sinfuego, who scored 349 after an 87. Breanna Rojas shot 99 and placed third with 400.
However, Gotiong battled more than just the challenges of the course. “I played really bad because I was tired,” she admitted, her voice tinged with fatigue. Despite not feeling her best, she found pride in her effort.
“But I’m proud of what I did because I tried my best even though I wasn’t feeling well,” she said.
Gotiong confirmed her participation in the Negros tournament next week, determined to give her best performance. She expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support of her parents, especially her father. “He helped me a lot with my game and he’s my biggest supporter,” she said.
Tambalque initially struggled to edge past Wahing and twin brothers Paul and Rey Oro in the first two days but managed to build a three-stroke cushion in the pivotal round Wednesday, posting the tournament’s only under-par round with a 69.
He aimed to improve with a two-under frontside card in the final round, extending his lead over Wahing by four strokes. However, the course and the competition began to challenge him.
He bogeyed the tricky par-3 No. 10 after pulling his tee shot but conceded just one stroke as Wahing missed his birdie attempt from eight feet. Despite the pressure, Tambalque displayed grace under pressure, matching Wahing’s pars in the next four holes to stay in firm control.
