ICTSI CJH: Runaway win by Rodriguez

CYNA Rodriguez birdied seven of her last 10 holes in an explosive finish, shooting a 6-under-par 63 Thursday to win  the ICTSI Camp John Hay Ladies Invitational by  11 strokes in Baguio City.

The well-built Rodriguez started the hot stretch on the 9th, before going on a tear with four straight from No. 11 as she tallied a 12-under 195 for a runaway victory over Thailand’s Amolkan Phalajivin who checked in with a 70 for  a 206 total.

It was the second victory in as many starts this season for Rodriguez, who took control with a similar 63 in the first round even without the benefit of practice.

Apple Fudolin chalked up her best finish by tying for third, shooting a 67 to catch Sarah Ababa at 212, with the veteran Anya Tanpinco firing a 73 for 215.

Jayvie Agojo, the champion last week at Riviera and the sentimental favorite, finished 21 shots behind at 216 after closing out with a 71. Her bid for a second straight title got derailed on Tuesday when she opened up with a horrid 77.

“The birdies came at the right time and gave me some breathing room (over Amolkan),” said Rodriguez, whose only bogey came on the fifth hole.

Amolkan, who started the day four behind, moved within two as the Thai nailed back-to-back birdies from No. 6 but lost her putting touch coming home.

“I had birdie opportunities (in the back nine) that just didn’t fall,” Amolkan said. “Still, I am very happy with my game.”

Rodriguez won P100,000 and wrested control again in the Order of Merit race because of Agojo’s sub-par performance. She is the defending OOM champion.

Nikki Bruce won low amateur honors by finishing alone in ninth spot at 219 after a 72 in the event backed by Nike, Pacsports, Custom Clubmakers and Sharp.