Del Monte to test national aces

MANILA, Philippines - Although Mhark Fernando and Jhonnel Ababa are tipped to slug it out for this year’s Samsung presents the Philippine Amateur Golf Championship title, a wide-open battle for the crown is seen when the event is held on April 28 at the Del Monte Golf Club in Bukidnon.

For one, Del Monte layout is expected to provide a different kind of challenge for the competing field with its man-made lakes, daunting bunkers, challenging tree-lined fairways and undulating putting surface.

Still, focus will be on the national pool maintays, led by Fernando, the reigning national champion who has dominated the ranks the last few years, and ICTSI-Cangolf teammate Ababa, who ruled the Cangolf Am late last year.

Also in the title hunt are former Hong Kong Am Open champion Dante Becierra, Peter Villaber, Dino Villanueva, Erwin Madrileno and youthful Alex Nallos of the ICTSI-The Country Club squad and ICTSI-Cangolf teammates Jessie Balasabas and Rupert Saragoza.

Registration is ongoing. The field is open to the first 75 players (men) with handicap index of 7.3 and below, 25 lady players with index of 9.8 and below and seniors aged 55 and above with handicap index of 9.6 and below, according to the organizing National Golf Association of the Phils.

Deadline for listup is April 19 for foreign players and April 20 for local entries.

Details: NGAP (632-5179778/5577849/09175607074 - Susan Facundo), fax (632-7065926), Del Monte Golf Club (088) 855-4312 to 17 loc.l 6145, 0927-4587834; email [email protected].