SW-Masters takes slim PAL lead over CCC

Abegail Arevalo churned out a level par 72 worth 54 points yesterday and spearheaded Manila Southwoods-Masters to a one-point lead over Cebu Country Club at the start of the Philippine Airlines Ladies Interclub championship at the up-and-down Palos Verdes layout in Davao.

The 14-year-old Arevalo, the newest member of the ICTSI squad, had five birdies in her first seven holes in her back nine as she led a hard-nosed stand by the Carmona-based bets on the way to an opening 147 points.

Lora Roberto, the former PH Ladies Am runner-up, fired 51 points and Kat Gonzales rounded out scoring for SW-Masters with a 44. Claire Ong’s 41 did not count.

SW-Masters, which is seeking an unprecedented third straight title, actually finished with 149 but was deducted two points when Gonzales putted out for a triple bogey.

“Our scores were within range but they have to play a lot better in the second round,” said Southwoods-Masters team captain Beachie Abiera, who added that she will be going with the same roster in today’s second round.

Louise Kaye Go, younger sister of men’s team standout LJ Go, paced Cebu CC with a day-best 55 points with Junia Gabasa shooting 48 and Alyeska Yunam firing a 43. Ryoko Nagai’s 32 failed to count.

“LJ played well and Junia got her numbers but Alyeska struggled a bit” said CCC team captain Kim Hong.

Alabang, meanwhile, set in motion its bid to reclaim the Founders Division crown as it came away with a 130 for a 13-point lead over Southwoods-Legends with Valley South running third at 113.

Apo Golf I assembled a 136 as it opened its title-retention bid in the Sportswriters Division with a whopping 27-point lead over host Palos Verdes I. Musong R. Castillo