Test of putting, clubbing up at Sherwood

A wind-blown natural beauty which has charmed even its legendary designer Jack Nicklaus takes the spotlight in the P700,000 Ericsson-Smart Zed Sherwood Hills Classic, the third leg of the new Philippine tour starting tomorrow.

After tackling two courses so different in length and character, the local pros will be up for a brand new challenge of touch putting and smart club selection at Sherwood Hills with its super-fast greens and natural blowers.

The Ericsson-Smart Zed Sherwood Hills Classic will be the first full professional event to be held at the par-72, 7,277-yard course which Nicklaus carved with minimal earth-moving due to its natural terrain.

"All clubs in the bag will have to be used," said Philippine Tour chair Bob Sobrepena. "As most of the holes carry the risk-and-reward factor, this is one big challenge they will have to be ready for."

Sobrepena added that the new facilities of the Sherwood Hills including its much-talked about California Mission-inspired clubhouse and driving range complete with practice greens and bunkers make it an ideal host for big events.

Reigning Philippine Open champ Gerald Rosales and Cassius Casas, two of the country’s most active campaigners abroad, headline the strongest cast to be assembled so far in the young tour.

They will be joined by Rodrigo Cuello, Danny Zarate, Canadian ace Rick Gibson and Richard Sinfuego, who ruled the Camp John Hay Open for his first pro victory. Rey Pagunsan, winner of the MRT-Southwoods Open, is a doubtful starter due to an overseas commitment.