INQUIRER Sports

Angelo Que is the first Filipino to play in the British Open championship in 10 years. This is his diary from Royal Birkdale. -- Ed

I SHOT 78 TODAY. I AM DISAPPOINTED to say the least but very proud of the way I played and the week as a whole. After yesterday’s 76, I really thought I had a great chance of making the cut in this, my very first major championship. But it just wasn’t meant to be this time around.

I actually got off to a great start and was 1 under after 5 holes. Then I bogeyed holes 6 and 7, double bogeyed 8, and bogeyed hole 9. That left me at 10 over at the turn, and one shot off the projected cut line. From then on, it was an uphill climb.

On the back nine the weather also took a turn for the worse. When I started my round, it was overcast and windy but no rain. On the back nine, the wind kicked up and there were spells of rain as well, which didn’t make things any easier.

I kept plugging at it and grinding as best I could to keep in the hunt but, just like the first round, a few wayward shots just took the momentum out of me. I made a bad bogey at 10, bogeyed the par 3 14th hole again from the same spot and doubled the 16th again after hitting in the same pot bunker. This game can be so frustrating! I birdied the 17th, which was some consolation, but by then it was too late. No matter what though, nothing compares to the reception and applause I received coming down the 18th fairway from all the spectators in the stands. That truly was a magical moment and one I won’t soon forget. And I am sure I will get to experience it again very soon.

It was a good week nonetheless. I learned a great deal about playing links golf, the conditions here, and what it means to play in a major championship. The event is unbelievable in its magnitude. And the crowds—indescribable. So many people, so much atmosphere, and everyone is so supportive. I met some fantastic players who have become friends now—watched, practiced with and talked to the best players in world, and learned so much about the world of professional golf. I know this will only help me in future.

Thanks everybody again for cheering for me. I will be home on Monday and get recharged for my tournament.

See you back in Manila.