Ilas rules Beverly Place Challenge by 3 strokes

BERNICE Ilas closed out with a three-over-par 74 yesterday and won the P500,000 ICTSI Beverly Place Challenge with plenty to spare against fellow amateur Sam Martirez in Pampanga.

The 14-year-old Ilas had a shaky start, signing for a double bogey-7 on No. 1 before steadying the ship somewhat to post a 54-hole total of 215 and a three-shot win over Martirez.

Martirez also returned a 74 as amateurs finished 1-2 for the second straight tournament of the fledging pro circuit. South Korea’s Hwang Min-jeong topped the Malarayat leg last year over Martirez.

Three of the country’s best female pros—Cyna Rodriguez, Dottie Ardina and Mia Piccio—are campaigning overseas and missed the event.

Chihiro Ikeda was the best-placed pro at third—seven shots off Ilas at 222—after a 78.

Because Ilas and Martirez are not eligible for the prize money, Ikeda took home the P100,000 champion’s prize.

Veterans Anya Tanpinco and Jayvie Agojo shot a 74 and 77, respectively, and tied for fourth spot at 224. Musong R. Castillo