Lago, Mendoza grab jungolf lead

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL—Ethan Lago and Denise Mendoza wasted no time stamping their class in the opening round of the Negros Occidental Junior PGT Championship, delivering strong starts in the 7-10 age division on Monday at the rain-softened but demanding Marapara course.

Lago, the Mactan leg champion, carded an impressive even-par 70 built on three birdies and three bogeys.

The 8-year-old Ateneo de Davao standout sank a string of long putts to establish a commanding nine-shot lead over fellow Davaoeño Lucas Revilleza, who posted a 79.

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On the girls’ side, Mendoza also asserted herself with steady play, while in the 11-14 bracket, siblings Rafella and Ralph Batican turned in contrasting rounds to keep the field tight.