Rupert Zaragosa Leads ICTSI Negros Occidental Challenge Amidst Challenging Weather Conditions

At the ICTSI Negros Occidental Challenge on Thursday, Rupert Zaragosa demonstrated remarkable composure and precision to seize a one-shot lead at 10-under 200, overcoming a rain-soaked and challenging third round on the Marapara course. Despite heavy rainfall causing a 40-minute delay and soaking the course, Zaragosa managed a bogey-free 64, maintaining steady control over notable competitors Keanu Jahns and Clyde Mondilla.

Known more for accuracy than power, Zaragosa’s performance reinforced the idea that golf is a game of precision and mental resilience rather than sheer distance. During the tense final stretch, Zaragosa narrowly missed a long birdie putt that struck the pin and ended just inches away, allowing him to secure an easy par and claim the lead.

Jahns, who entered the round on a winning streak with back-to-back titles at Caliraya Springs and Binitin, suffered a costly error on the last hole after overshooting the green with his third shot. His subsequent chip fell short, forcing two putts and resulting in a closing bogey. Jahns posted a 66 and now stands in second place at 201.

Mondilla made a late effort with birdies on holes 15 and 17 before finishing with a par on 18 to card a 67. He is tied for third at 202 alongside Aidric Chan, who also surged with an impressive 64 to stay in contention at the P2 million tournament organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

In his post-round remarks, Zaragosa said, "My putting was more consistent compared to the first two days. I felt confident even with the wet greens. I’m very happy with how I played today." He added that the weather disruption towards the end did not significantly affect the players, noting, "We were almost finished, so it didn’t have much impact."

Though relieved, Zaragosa acknowledged the pressure of defending his title won last year under shortened conditions. "I feel the pressure to defend my championship. I’ll review my strategy for tomorrow, hoping to improve my game even further," he stated.

Jahns remained optimistic despite his error, commenting, "I took relief from casual water, but my 8-iron flew 20 yards beyond the green. These things happen; I’m not too upset." He attributed his performance more to misfortune than weather, saying, "The weather didn’t really affect me; it was just unlucky."

Both Zaragosa and Jahns expect the tournament's outcome to hinge on putting performance during the final round. Jahns explained, "I’ll focus on steady play and hope my putting remains sharp."

Strategically, Zaragosa's round contrasted with the aggressive tactics of Jahns and Mondilla, who frequently deployed long drives. Zaragosa prioritized hitting fairways and greens, setting up manageable putts. His precise iron play was exemplified on the par-4 ninth hole, where, despite being outdriven by Jahns by 80 yards, he executed a 56-degree wedge to within six feet and sank the birdie putt.

The round saw Zaragosa birdie early holes 2, 5, and 6, match Jahns with a birdie on the 10th, continue his streak at the par-4 15th hole for the third consecutive day, and close strongly to assume the lead heading into the final day.

Other notable performances included Aidric Chan’s surge fueled by four straight birdies beginning at hole 4 and finishing with a dramatic 20-foot birdie on hole 18. Russell Bautista carded a flawless 65 to move into solo fifth place, while Sean Ramos, after a strong start, stumbled with late bogeys to finish at 66.

Angelo Que, champion of the season's first two legs, remained in the hunt with a 67, and a large group including Elee Bisera, Fidel Concepcion, Francis Morilla, Justin Quiban, and Nilo Salahog remain competitively grouped just outside the top positions.

As the tournament progresses to its final round, the battle remains tight with Zaragosa, Jahns, and Mondilla poised to battle on a course where strategic play and putting prowess appear to be decisive factors.