Pinewoods has field’s respect

Angelo Que: Fanciedin Baguio.—CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Even after decades of competing on some of golf’s toughest courses around the world, Angelo Que isn’t about to make bold predictions heading into unfamiliar territory.

Coming off a victory at Caliraya Springs and carrying solid form into the third leg of this year’s PGT, the veteran campaigner is approaching the ICTSI Pinewoods Challenge with guarded optimism as recklessness—not the mountain course’s modest length—could prove the biggest obstacle in his bid for back-to-back championships beginning on Tuesday.

“I’ve never played Pinewoods so I’ll have to see it first before making any comment over how I would assess my chances,” said Que, whose honesty reflects the respect the layout commands even if it measures just over 6,600 yards.

Precision more than power

Que understands that Pinewoods is anything but a familiar power golf test. Designed around the rugged mountainside, the par-72 layout demands precision more than brute strength.

Its fairways leave little room for aggressive driving, thick rough punishes slight misses, while dramatic elevation changes and sloping greens require precise club selection.

Antonio Lascuña is also another man to watch after finishing second at Caliraya Springs, even as Clyde Mondilla, the returning Lloyd Go and Keanu Jahns are also entered.

Multi-titled Guido van der Valk also looms as a major threat, alongside Rupert Zaragosa, Jhonnel Ababa, Zanieboy Gialon and Fidel Concepcion.

Jahns was the leader heading into the final round at Caliraya before Que made a charge from five shots down to win and get his defense of a first Order of Merit title going off in style.

###—###

#Kicker