Gaston boosts Golden Oats three-peat bid

Baguio City – Defending champion Golden Oats had acquired former national senior standout Francis Gaston and boosted its chances for a rare three-peat in the upcoming 59th Fil-Am Golf Invitational seniors tournament which starts Nov. 22.

Gaston, the 59-year-old parbuster from Silay City, will bring with him vast experience in national-level competition and savvy shot-making which playing team manager Freddie Mendoza hopes to come into play and keep the Golden Oats’ winnning streak.

For the past two years, Golden Oats has been dominating the seniors’ affair as it twice defeated local team Camp John Hay in a classic battle held at the host venues Camp John Hay Golf Club and Baguio Country Club courses.

“We are very fortunate to get Gaston. For sure, his credentials as a player shall create a big impact for Golden Oats and the Fil-Am as well,” Mendoza said.

Golden Oats skipper Florene delos Santos and teammates Iggy Clavecilla, who won the Sabah Senior Open titlist last week, and Bong Sison are equally excited to have Gaston on board.

“We have a very good line-up this year. Gaston’s presence alone will surely boost our confidence in nailing our third straight seniors crown,” said Delos Santos.

Gaston, in response, said that he feels invigorated with his Fil-Am stint and looks forward to a fruitful campaign for the makers of the world-class, healthy oats.

To keep himself in shape and tournament-ready, Gaston plays at least thrice a week at the Marapara course of the Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club in his hometown Bacolod City.

“I’m in top condition. I am honored for my inclusion in Golden Oats. I’ll do my best to help in its grandslam bid,” said Gaston.

Tipped to challenge the Golden Oats’ supremacy includes the Philippine Sports Commission’s Richie Garcia-led Manila Golf and perennial pre-event favorite Camp John Hay.

Golden Oats, Manila Golf and Camp John Hay are among the hundred of teams comprising about 1,180 participants in the 59th edition of the annual Fil-Am. More than half of the field will compete in the regular men’s event beginning Dec. 1.