With precision the premium more than length in the Philippine Masters teeing off on Wednesday, the undersized Jonel Ababa could again find the tight, tree-lined Villamor in Pasay City to his liking as he chases a third title this year.
Together with Antonio Lascuña and American Nicolas Paez, Ababa tied for second behind Clyde Mondilla last year. He gets another chance at the prestigious championship as Villamor practically levels the field by taking driver out of the hands of the long hitters on most tee mounds.
Lascuña has one of the best short games on tour and is expected to thrive in demanding conditions at the military-operated layout.
“It’s a one-miss-you-die type of course,” Ababa told the Inquirer. “You have to be able to think ahead on most holes and never gamble.”
Villamor will host the Masters until next year.