TO celebrate its diamond anniversary, the Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub will introduce a new format when it holds the tournament in Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon starting Feb. 22.
From the usual five-to-play-four-to-count system, tournament organizers will implement a four-to-play, three-to-count format which it expects to raise excitement as it is believed to create a more balanced competition. By reducing the number of players, a deep bench, which some of the wealthier golf clubs and teams enjoy, will no longer be a big factor.
"We have been thinking of that for quite a few years now, and we feel that this year is the time to implement it," tournament director Henry Arabelo said.
"We just feel that competition will be tighter because of that, as every team will have more solid rosters coming out each day," he went on. "And because there will be fewer players, we have been able to accommodate 10 more teams to the field."
The Seniors and Men's championships will each use the same format.
Manila Southwoods is the defending champion in the men's division which will feature the finest amateur golfers in the country while Luisita won the seniors division last year.
The new format is expected to force teams to make new strategies especially in the fielding of players.
Pueblo de Oro in Cagayan de Oro and Del Monte Golf Club in Bukidnon, both in Mindanao, will be the venues and they will be used by the men's and senior teams.
The PAL Interclub Golf Tournament 2024 is expected to boost sports tourism and generate economic activity forthe two provinces. Philippine Airlines said the choice of venues was made in collaboration with the local governments and communities.
Regular Men's action starts on March 1 and the seniors on Feb. 22.
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