Superal scores 70, joins Thai at top spot

PRINCESS Superal was bogey-free in a second straight two-under-par 70 yesterday and caught Thailand’s Chatprapa Siriprakob at the top heading into the final round today of the ICTSI Ladies Sherwood Hills Challenge in Trece Martirez, Cavite.

The 19-year-old Superal had all two of her birdies in the front nine and flubbed at least three close range putts for birdies coming home and settled for a 36-hole 140, tied with the well-built Thai, who returned a 71.

“I missed a lot of (birdie) chances at the back (nine),” Superal said. “I couldn’t get the right speed (of the greens).”

Ajira Nualraksa of Thailand returned a day-best 69 and crept to within two of the joint leaders, joining Jayvie Agojo at 142 after Agojo had three birdies in her version of a 70 at the wind-swept, ravine-laden layout.

Cyna Rodriguez, the US LPGA veteran, also assembled a 70, with the amateur Pauline del Rosario matching par for 143s and within range of the championship.

Aunchisa Utama was the third Thai in the top 10 after a 73 left her just four shots adrift.

But the focus is obviously on Superal, the former US Girls’ champion being coached by swing guru Bong Lopez as she shoots for the perfect start to a pro career.

Superal is using this Philippine Ladies Golf Tour leg to toughen up for Stage II of the LPGA Qualifying Series slated next month. She tied for second in the opening stage a couple of weeks ago.

“This is an entirely different thing,” Superal said, referring to being a pro. “There is a different kind of pressure and a different approach.”