INQUIRER Sports

SOUTHPORT -- Angelo Que is the reigning champion of Asia’s oldest national Open but at the world’s oldest major, the Filipino is feeling somewhat out of place.

Que is making his debut in the British Open this week and while the excitement of being in his first major has increased the adrenaline, the 29-year-old conceded that he was slightly intimidated at Royal Birkdale.

"When I got to the course on Sunday, I wasn’t comfortable. I’m the Philippine Open champion but still, who am I compared to these guys," said Que, who won his national championship on the Asian Tour in April.

As a first-timer, Que has also been mistaken for a Japanese player by autograph seekers at the English links course and he is adamant that the only way he can become more recognizable is by putting in a good performance.

"Yes, a good result here will be good for me and make me more familiar with the fans and even the top players. However, I want to play well for myself and I’m pretty hopeful that I can do it," said Que.

The jovial Filipino arrived in England last Wednesday and hopes the early preparation will see him reap the rewards.

Que realizes that British Open debutants often fail to sparkle but after three practice rounds at Royal Birkdale, he reckons he has a fighting chance.

"It’s a tough golf course but it’s fair. The conditions are really nice and even for a first timer like me, maybe I can handle it," he said.

Whatever the outcome, Que, a two-time winner in Asia, is determined to return home with happy memories from his Open debut.

"It has been what I had anticipated it to be but I certainly didn’t expect the large crowds even on the Sunday or Monday. It’s a big difference and it kind of creates pressure as you have to hit the perfect shot in front of a grandstand that is filled with spectators.

"However it’s such a good feeling to be here. It’s the biggest major and it’s an experience of a lifetime. I’m enjoying it and living the moment. I will cherish this for the rest of my life," he said.

Que has practiced everyday with Singapore’s Lam Chih Bing and Danny Chia of Malaysia, who are his regular playing partners on the Asian Tour, and picked up some valuable tips when the trio were joined by Damian McGrane of Ireland, winner of the Volvo China Open this year, and South African veteran David Frost on separate occasions.

"It was good to watch Damian play as he’s so good in the wind and his ball flight is always consistent. David knows Royal Birkdale well as he’s been here three times previously and he kind of told us to just trust our shots and shared some of his experiences with us," said Que.