The 19th edition of The Country Club Invitational, which serves as the prelude to each Philippine Golf Tour season, is scheduled to commence on January 23.
The event will feature a formidable lineup consisting of the Top 30 from the previous year's PGT Order of Merit, promising intense competition for both substantial prizes and prestigious recognition at the TCC course in Canlubang.
Van der Valk eyes 3-peat
Guido van der Valk is not only eyeing a repeat but also aiming for a three-peat victory in the 72-hole championship. With a total prize pool of P6 million, the tournament maintains its status as a major championship.
Van der Valk's previous triumph in 2020 underscores his dominance, making him a strong contender for the top prize of P2 million.
Launched by ICTSI chairman/CEO Ricky Razon in 2003 to honor his father and ICTSI founder Don Pocholo, the Country Club Invitational has evolved into an annual gathering of the Philippines' elite and emerging golf talents.
Expected to challenge van der Valk in the title race are reigning OOM winner and last year's PGT two-stage champion Jhonnel Ababa, along with other leg titlists Clyde Mondilla, Reymon Jaraula, Ruperto Zaragosa, Ira Alido, and former TCC Invitational winners like Tony Lascuña, Frankie Miñoza, Miguel Tabuena, and three-time champion Angelo Que.
The TCC course, renowned for its challenging features such as length, hazards, and sleek putting surfaces, adds an extra layer of difficulty with the anticipated stifling heat and high winds, providing a true test of golf for the tour professionals.
TCC pro-am tournament set
Additionally, the traditional pro-am tournament is scheduled for January 22, where a select group of pros will team up with amateur guests sponsored by ICTSI, as announced by the organizing Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.
Supported by Kampfortis Golf, the official apparel of PGTI, the TCC Invitational will mark the beginning of the new PGT and Ladies PGT seasons, featuring 10-leg circuits for each side at the country’s premier championship courses.
With players like Dino Villanueva, Marvin Dumandan, Sean Ramos, Keanu Jahns, Zanieboy Gialon, Albin Engino, Nilo Salahog, Jay Bayron, Elmer Salvador, Fidel Concepcion, Rico Depilo, and others gearing up for the championship, the TCC Invitational promises a thrilling competition and a showcase of skill and determination at the country’s toughest course.
Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph
NOTICE ON UNAUTHORIZED AND UNLAWFUL USE, PUBLICATION, AND/OR DISSEMINATION OF SPIN.PH CONTENT: Please be notified that any unauthorized and unlawful use, publication, and/or dissemination of Spin.ph’s content and/or materials is a direct violation of its legal and exclusive rights to the same, and shall be subject to appropriate legal action/s.
