Cangolf braces for PAL 3-peat double
BACOLOD CITY – Canlubang has assembled a crack crew rich in experience as it hopes to complete its bid for a three-peat double in the centerpiece regular men’s championship of the 61st PAL Interclub championship here.
Their confidence boosted by their successful defense of their seniors diadem, the Barons are seeking the rear-end of a record title sweep in the event beginning Wednesday over two courses here.
A mix of battle-tested veterans and young guns, the Barons are also seeking to annex a 15th title since 1977 when they emerged the first rookie team to win a championship.
But it won’t be easy.
Standing in the way of Canlubang’s bid is perennial rival Manila Southwoods, which is brimming with youth talents led by reigning national champion Anthony Fernando.
“It’s going to be tough but we can do it,” said Canlubang skipper Luigi Yulo, adding their campaign would hinge “on fielding the right men to maximize our chances.”
Southwoods skipper Thirdy Escano also put emphasis on the team’s daily battle plan although he admitted the Barons have the edge in manpower.
“Man for man, Canlubang has the advantage. Their players are used to the condition of these courses but strategy will come into play. The format levels the playing field because it would mean having all 10 players play their best in two rounds,” said Escano.
Southwoods won the first of its only two Interclub crowns in 2005 over the same Marapara layout, beating Canlubang in a thriller of a finish and it hopes to repeat the feat.
Del Monte looms as another title contender but its staying power remains suspect based on its performances the past three years.
Bannering the Barons crack at matching Luisita’s record title romp is the nucleus of the Calatagan aces, products of the national caddies program of seniors mainstay Tommy Manotoc.
They’re led by SEA Games and Putra Cup players Jhonel Ababa and Mark Fernando and DHL Open titlist Rufino Bayron, third placer in last year’s Singapore Amateur.
The others are Jess Balasabas, Mario Labajo, Joseph Labajo, Paul Echaves, Zanny Boy Gialon, Peter Villaber and local boy Joey Huerva.
Missing in this year’s cast are former amateur titlist Jun Bernis and Boyet Saragoza, who turned pro, and Dave Hernandez, who has moved to the seniors ranks.
Backing up Fernando in the Southwoods squad are Asian Gamer Gene Bondoc, Tonton Asistio, Jun Jun Plana, Miko Yee, 11-year-old Miggy Yee, Marapara club titlist Justine Limjap,
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