Southwoods opens 3-peat quest

MANILA, Philippines - Manila Southwoods hopes to come out strong and build some momentum for its bid for a third straight championship in the WGAP-Luzvimin golf tournament which fires off today at the Del Monte Golf Club in Bukidnon.

The Carmona-based golfers used a strong start in completing their back-to-back title romp at the Fairways and Bluewater in Boracay last year, posting an early 24-point lead over Del Monte before cruising to a 51-point victory over Alabang in the premier Diamond division.

But Southwoods expects a more challenging campaign this time as they go up against 18 other teams, headed by host Del Monte, out to flash its familiarity with the tough layout on a team built around Marian Woo, Kristine Leonen, Eva Miñoza and Pamela Soriano.

Regina de Guzman, who keyed Southwoods’ runaway victory last year, is back for the team as she likewise guns for a third straight victory in the individual side of the tournament organized by the Women’s Golf Association of the Phils.

Joining De Guzman in the Southwoods team are Lora Roberto, Katrina Gonzales, Beachie Abiera, Claire Ong, Claudine Garcia and Sandy Velhagen.