Newcomers on the rise

A couple of first-timers powered hopes for a breakthrough start in the ICTSI Junior PGT Series, while a compelling mix of seasoned and emerging talents took charge in four other divisions in spirited play that marked Tuesday’s opening round of the Del Monte JPGT Championship here.

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In the 7-10 category, Davao’s Soleil Molde and Jamie Barnes of Cagayan de Oro stole the spotlight from local bets, carding rounds of 77 and 72, respectively, at the challenging Del Monte Golf Club to move within 18 holes of a breakthrough win in the two-day tournament, kicking off the four-week Mindanao swing of the Vis-Min Series.

Molde, who competed in the Drive-Chip-Putt event of the JPGT circuit in 2023, is playing her first full JPGT 18-hole tournament with ambitions beyond just the leg win — including a coveted spot in the North and South Elite Junior Finals at The Country Club in October.