Lascuña’s resolve: Precision over power at Southwoods’ Masters

MANILA, Philippines — Tony Lascuña does not downplay his skills, but the five-time Philippine Golf Tour Order of Merit champion understands that power will play a crucial role in winning the upcoming Philippine Open at Manila Southwoods.

"At Southwoods, you need to be strong, but it’s all about the right kind of power," said Lascuña, who has secured 53 victories in a stellar pro career spanning nearly three decades.

Among those triumphs are five wins at Southwoods, where he also imparts his expertise by conducting swing lessons for players across various skill levels.

His last victory at Southwoods was in 2015, making the amiable Davaoeño even more eager to compete – not just for another title but also for recognition. After all, the Philippine Open is the country’s premier golf championship.

This year, the event set January 23 to 26, 2025 takes on greater significance as it marks its return to the Asian Tour calendar after a six-year hiatus as the opening leg for the 2025 season, staking a total prize fund of $500,000.

But Lascuña’s journey in golf has been defined not only by his consistent prowess but also by an unyielding passion and dedication to the sport. Despite his advancing years and the emergence of younger, power-hitting talents armed with cutting-edge technology, he remains a force to be reckoned with, showcasing a level of tenacity that continues to inspire both his peers and the next generation of golfers.

As he prepares for the Open, Lascuña knows the challenges ahead. The Masters’ layout, with its long 7,317-yard stretch, demands precision, strategy and power – qualities that long hitters on the Asian Tour bring in abundance.

The course is laden with tricky holes, narrow fairways, hazards and well-placed bunkers that can test even the most seasoned players. Hole No. 9, notorious for its difficulty, and the finishing par-5 18th, where wind often plays a crucial role, add an extra layer of complexity.

Yet, if there is anyone who understands the nuances of the course, it is Lascuña. His intimate knowledge of its layout – acquired over years of competing and teaching at Southwoods – gives him a strategic edge. This familiarity allows him to navigate its challenges with precision, even as age has slightly diminished his driving length.

While the younger competitors may dominate with 300+-yard drives, Lascuña's game is built on more than just power. His near-flawless short game, remarkable accuracy with fairway woods, and improving putting prowess remain integral to his strategy.

"Perhaps, I could make up for my lack in length with solid fairway wood shots and short game," said Lascuña. "But it all depends on the course condition, pin placements – and the wind."

Lascuña’s resolve to compete at the highest level is a testament to his enduring passion for the sport. His multiple career victories underscore his ability to excel under pressure. His mastery of reading greens, controlling trajectory and making critical decisions on challenging courses has been honed over three decades, making him one of the most respected figures in Philippine golf.

While other Filipino stars like Miguel Tabuena and Angelo Que, both three-time winners on the Asian Tour, lead the country’s title bid, Lascuña remains unfazed by the competition. For him, every tournament is a new opportunity to pursue the one crown missing from his collection.

“We can never tell. Anything can happen in golf. One day, you’ll be hitting as if you’re not missing, and the next day, you’ll be missing even the easiest of the shots,” he reflected with characteristic humility.

Despite the odds, Lascuña’s preparation and mindset reflect his unwavering belief in his abilities. He is not just playing to win; he is playing to show that excellence in golf transcends age and power.

His legacy as a player who thrives on passion, skill and determination remains a source of inspiration for Philippine golf, as he sets his sights on adding another chapter to his storied career.