Martirez, Chabon book Jr World slots

SAM Martirez, Sofia Chabon and Sophia Blanco topped their age brackets in contrasting styles in the girls’ division of the Philippine Airlines Junior World Golf Championships qualifying tournament recently at Splendido Taal Golf and Country Club in Nasugbu, Batangas.

Martirez came from four shots down in the third round to deny Annika Cedo in the 15-17 years group, chalking up rounds of 77, 74, 78 and 73 for 302 and a four-stroke victory.

Leading after three rounds, Cedo stumbled with an 83 in the final round and settled for second place at 306. Abby Arevalo (307) and LK Go (308) took the two other slots for finishing third and fourth in the 72-hole chase for the four Class A girls, slots in the national contingent competing in the Junior World tilt in San Diego, California this coming July.

Sophia Blanco went unchallenged in ruling the girls 11-12 years race while Chabon fended off a stirring rally by Yuka Saso to win the 13-14 years’ battle.

Martirez, Chabon and Blanco completed the elite group of 12 champions who will be flown to Los Angeles by PAL.