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English
Korean Rookie Seizes Clubhouse Lead at Taal Ji Sung Cheon Shines in Philippine Golf Tour Qualifying School
Korean Rookie Seizes Clubhouse Lead at Taal Ji Sung Cheon Shines in Philippine Golf Tour Qualifying School
Title Korean Rookie Seizes Clubhouse Lead at Taal Ji Sung Cheon Shines in Philippine Golf Tour Qualifying School
In an impressive start to the Philippine Golf Tour Qualifying School, South Korea's Ji Sung Cheon, 19, fired a strong opening round of 69 to take the clubhouse lead at the challenging Splendido Taal Golf Club in Batangas.
As one of many Korean rookies vying for spots in this year's ICTSI-sponsored premier circuit, Cheon capitalized on an early tee time to navigate the course with impressive consistency and ball-striking ability. He dominated the up-and-down layout with birdies on holes 1, 6, 7, 12, and 13.
Despite a slight dip in momentum due to firm greens leading to three-putt miscues on Nos. 14 and 15, Cheon recovered with pars to close out a 33-36 round, securing a two-shot lead over compatriot Jaehyun Jung.
When asked about his game plan, Cheon explained, My score is a bit lower than I expected. I hit all the greens on the front nine, so I just kept a patient mindset. If I had a chance for birdie, I'd go for it, but otherwise, I played safe with two-putts from long range. That's the key to my game.
Jaehyun Jung moved into provisional solo second place with a 71 after back-to-back birdies on Nos. 14 and 15. Chon Koo Kang, another Korean golfer, matched par 72.
Other notable performances include Belem Alarcon and returning veteran Rey Pagunsan, who both carded rounds of 73 to position themselves in contention. Local players like Walter Sangalang and Pepito Rico turned in respectable scores of 74, while international competitors Qawim Asumon and Yuto Hayaski both shot par 72.
As the tournament continues, it's clear that Cheon's strong start has set a high bar for his competitors. Can he maintain his momentum and secure a spot in the premier circuit? Only time will tell.
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