Bamboo Tee up at Sta. Barbara

The Iloilo Golf and Country Club Inc., owners of the historic Sta. Barbara course -- the birthplace of golf in the country, will stage the sixth edition of the "Bamboo Tee" — its annual invitational tournament, on Nov.15-17.

Nestled on the rolling hills that surround the outskirts of Iloilo City to the north, the par-70 course, dotted with centuries-old acacia trees, is the oldest existing golf course in the country. Through the years, the course has undergone numerous facelifts and expansions which continue even at present. But for sure, it retains much of its old natural charm which continues to provide the unique "old-golf-school" challenges posed by the pioneering expatriate golfing Scotsmen, who brought the sport to the isles nearly a century ago.

This is exemplified by the original layout of the signature 9th, 10th and 18th holes.

The Bamboo Tee has gained recognition from the local and national business establishments which have joined the thousand-member strong shareholders in their effort to preserve and promote this precious golfing heritage and tourist spot in Iloilo. Major sponsors are Smart Communications, Samsung, Cebu Pacific, SM City Iloilo, San Miguel Corp., CGU Assurance, Taylor Made-Adidas Phils., and Caltex Phils .