Hong struggles, hits 73

AFTER winning the ICTSI Pueblo de Oro Championships in Cagayan, Charles Hong is just aiming for a simple goal in the Davao leg—making the cut.

“My aim tomorrow is to make the cut and move up the leaderboard,” said 24-year-old Hong, who recently bagged his first win in the ICTSI golf tour after two years of being a professional golfer.

Hong struggled in the first round, making two bogeys before getting two birdies in the back nine for a 73, for a share of 23rd place with eight others including hometown bet Jhonell Ababa.

Though Hong has played in Davao several times, especially during the PAL Interclub, he said it isn’t an advantage.

“I played some PAL Interclub here, but none that I can remember na special gyud. Last year’s ICTSI tour was played at Apo golf,” said Hong.

The first round was led by Rufino Bayron, who opened with a 67 for a one-stroke lead over Zanie Boy Gialon, Miguel Ochoa and Carl Santos-Campo ISL.

Bayron, chasing his first pro victory since ruling a pro tournament as an amateur three years ago, scored three straight birdies from no. 6 then strung up four straight from No. 12 to spike his 34-33 card in a day of torrid scoring at the long, rolling layout.

The former amateur hotshot, who placed third to Hong and Richard Sinfuego in last week’s ICTSI Pueblo de Oro Championship, could’ve built a two-shot cushion if not for a bogey mishap on the final hole.

He had two other bogeys and a birdie on the first hole on a hot, humid day. (PR)