The golfing world is in a buzz the past days due to a “Shark” sighting in some renowned golf courses in the country. This time however instead of people running for safety to a much safer ground, they flocked and went as close as possible to the Shark.
To have a closer look at the Shark. And even have their photos taken with the Shark.
Of course my dear, the great white Shark I am referring to is from the land Down Under, the winner of many golf’s majors except The Masters. He’s no less than the great Greg Norman.
Yes, the Shark was in town.
This time however he’s not competing anymore but in a scouting mode or rather in search of a much bigger bait to attract preys to create some excitement for the golf hungry Filipinos. Nothing has been official yet but speculation in the grape vine is that, the shark is considering Manila as a stop for his Asian tour of LIV Golf.
That’s right folks. As it appears, possibility is great that LIV golf will be in town. Where it will be held? Nobody knows. When that happens, it’s still uncertain. Who will play? it still in the making. But there’s one thing that is certain. If that big thing will happen it will be a shot in the arm for Philippine golfing.
Professional golf in the country is dying. Except for the limited pro tours, thanks mainly to golf godfather ICTSI’s Enrique Razon not much can be said about our pro golfers. Some though took their chances finding their luck competing abroad in the Asian PGA tour, the Chinese tour and in cash rich Japan PGA tour that for many years has been the home of golf legend Frankie Minoza and as of late Juvic Pagunsan. While the others, he less fortunate ones have since then struggled to make a living and make the most they can caddying in some golf clubs or stay at driving ranges as teaching pros while others just do some odd jobs while waiting for invitations from generous and rich businessmen golfers needing company while playing and relaxing.
Not much can be said of our amateur golfers either who for the past years during those old glory days, have been lording it over our neighbors in ASEAN and even in Asia. Nowadays our amateur golfers are in survival mode and happy just to land among the top ten with their ASEAN counterparts. Their focus now if given the chance is to try their way to the US for golf college scholarships.
The recent brouhaha in the NGAP WHS intramural further eroded NGAPs credibility if there is still one existing. Golfers patience were tested last year and it exploded ultimately after that handicapping controversy that left NGAP with a black eye. Not to mention that the JunGolf affairs further dragged down the association, what with the controversy concerning participation of young golfers from tournament abroad.
But here at last a fresh air for Philippine golfing. Maybe this LIV golf happening in the country is the needed shot in the arm to restore back interest in golf. Maybe the presence of LIV golf stars can crate stir among the fans and aficionados not to mention boost revenues for the business sector, the tourism sector and the lucky golf club to be chosen.
Its high time that Philippine golf need something to awaken the sport from its deep slumber.
Fooooooore.
NOTES: I will be playing this coming Monday May 13,2024 at the Veterans Golf in Quezon City for the CFC Friendship Golf at North B Sector golf tournament through the invitation of my friend, the ageless Manong Jake Ayson and my golf ponder sportswriter par excellence Al Mendoza. See you around folks. Am excited not with the golf but with the fellowship there after. Hoping we have some piano music or a videoke will do afterwards. Cheers
