Dy rallies to seize third US Kids World C’ships crown

Jed Dy chalked up another golden finish for the Philippines when he came from behind to capture the boys’ 10 years division of the US Kids World Championships in Pinehurst, North Carolina on Saturday (Sunday in Manila).

The son of Ayala Land’s president and chief executive officer Bobby Dy fired a bogey-free five-under-par 67 at the Little River Resort course in the third and final round to overcome a three-stroke deficit and escape with a one-stroke win over Scott Dunlap of Alabama (71-203).

The American’s bid was hurt by a decisive two-shot swing on the 16th hole where Jed made birdie to grab the lead by  two from a dead even situation.

Earlier, Dy patiently nibbled at Dunlap’s lead with an error-free game. He was still three down going to the 11th but three birdies on the next five holes brought the two level on the 15th.

It was the third US Kids title for Dy who won the 7 years title in 2011 and the 8 years crown in 2012. He lost the 6-and-under battle in a playoff in 2010 and was in contention for last year’s 9 years plum going to the last day only to check in late for his tee-off and was given a 10-stroke penalty.

Sean Granada placed third in the boys’ 9 years after a 70-212 and Burberry Zhang came in fourth in the girls’ 9 years with her 35-109.

Miko Granada tied for ninth in the boys’ 6-U, Andrew Chua finished 23rd in the boys’ 7 years and Perry Bucay tied for 67th in boys’ 11 years.

“Our collection of victories proves that our development program is working,” said Luigi Tabuena, president of the Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines.