Jahns off to hot start with 64, leads ICTSI Forest Hills Classic ANTIPOLO – Keanu Jahns continued his stellar form from his near-miss at Splendido Taal in July, carding a sensational seven-under-par 64 to wrest a slim one-shot lead over a surging Enrico Gallardo in the rain-hit ICTSI Forest Hills Classic at the Nicklaus course here Wednesday. Jahns navigated the challenging conditions with ease, firing eight birdies against a lone bogey to secure the top spot after the opening round of the P2-million championship. An hour-long rain delay did little to slow Jahns’ momentum. After a fiery start through the first 12 holes, he birdied the par-5 16th and finished his round with six straight pars, delivering a championship-caliber 30-34 round.
Jahns’s success was not solely due to his own efforts. He also benefited from the support of his caddie, who helped him with course management and provided valuable insights. The caddie’s expertise was crucial in navigating the course’s tricky terrain and choosing the right clubs for each shot. Jahns’s victory was a testament to the power of teamwork.
14, Gallardo’s strong finish propelled him to a 65, securing him a share of the lead. Gallardo’s impressive performance was further amplified by his consistent approach throughout the tournament. He consistently finished within the top 10, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure and maintain a high level of play.
Meanwhile, club pro Rolando Garalde made his presence felt with a 67, placing him solo third. His familiarity with the tight, hilly layout of Forest Hills proved vital as he birdied five of the first 11 holes, spurred on by the enthusiastic support of the caddies holding placards in his honor. Despite bogeying Nos. 12 and 13 after the rain delay, Garalde bounced back with a birdie on the par-5 16th, finishing his round with a 32-35. “I do have a home course edge, but the cheering crowd also adds pressure,” said Garalde, thanking the caddies and Forest Hills general manager Raymond Bunquin for their support.
**1. “It got a bit cooler after the delay”**: This indicates that the golfer experienced a change in weather conditions during the delay. This could be due to a shift in wind direction, temperature, or even cloud cover. **2.
The Philippine Masters, a prestigious tournament, is a testament to the enduring legacy of golf in the country. It’s a major championship, attracting top golfers from across the country and the world. The tournament is held annually at the prestigious Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club, a renowned golf course known for its challenging layout and demanding greens. Lascuña’s performance at Splendido, where he overcame difficult conditions, showcased his resilience and adaptability.
