Manila: Sta Rosa, Laguna: Clyde Mondilla carded a 73 Wednesday to wrest a two-stroke lead at The Country Club Invitational in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. He overcame a rocky front nine and the challenging conditions to finish with a one-under 143.
According to Philippines News Agency, Mondilla expressed relief at his ability to recover, noting, “I’m glad I was able to recover, especially since I wasn’t hitting it very well.” A crucial birdie on the 15th hole and parring the final holes helped Mondilla maintain his lead. Meanwhile, Reymon Jaraula and Jay Bayron both registered rounds of 71, the day’s best, while Aidric Chan and LJ Go had rounds of 74 and 76, respectively. Go remained tied for second at 145, alongside Chan, Jaraula, and Bayron.
Mondilla commented on the unpredictability of the course, stating, “On this course, it’s not really over even on the final three holes. The course can turn on you at any time.” Two-time champion Guido van der Valk scored a 72 for solo sixth at 147. Forest Hills champion Keanu Jahns (74), Kakeru Ozeki (72), and Nilo Salahog (75) were tied at 148.
Gwon Minwook scored a 78 for joint 10th at 149, while three-time TCC Invitational champion Angelo Que carded a 78, placing him at 151 in a tie with Albin Engino (74) and Jhonnel Ababa (77) for 11th place. The P6 million tournament is put up by ICTSI chairman and CEO Ricky Razon in memory of his father and ICTSI founder Don Pocholo.
Defending champion Tony Lascu±a (75), first-round co-leader Dino Villanueva (83), Fidel Concepcion (72), Lakewood leg winner Sean Ramos (75), and Hyun Ho Rho (76) share 14th place at 152.
