Eight rising stars of Philippine golf display their trophies after clinching victories at the ICTSI Junior PGT Match Play Finals at The Country Club on Friday. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO The ICTSI Junior PGT Match Play Finals crowned its first-ever champions, with eight winners emerging across various age categories. The young talents highlighted the importance of staying focused, composed and physically fit, while also recognizing the confidence boost the intense three-day competition brought them – especially on the grueling final day with its 36-hole challenge.
For girls’ 16-18 winner Ally Gaccion from Cagayan de Oro, this tournament was about redemption. “Last year, I lost via playoff, so winning this year means a lot to me,” said Gaccion, who scored a 4&3 victory over Lia Duque in the final. “Every hole was like a fresh start, and it was amazing to keep my composure and finish 36 holes strong.
” The 17-year-old, representing Wellspring Christian School, credited her endurance and consistency for her triumph, adding, “It’s not just about golfing skills; staying strong mentally and physically is just as crucial.” Boys’ 16-18 champion Zach Villaroman from Biñan, Laguna, seized his title with a commanding 6&4 win over Mark Kobayashi. Villaroman, who comes from a championship lineage – his father a former three-time Junior World titlist and his aunt a former Philippine Ladies champion – said the victory provided a significant confidence boost for his internati.