A trip to Boracay fore the love of golf

A friend once asked me about my idea of the perfect party scene. My answer was simple. "Three things," I said. "One, it should be by the sea. Two, the place should be in Boracay and three, a nubile, nude woman rising out of the sea like that of King Arthur’s Excalibur."

It wasn’t long before the first two elements materialized as Fairways & Bluewater Resort Golf and Country Club, the Golfing Jewel of the Pacific, hosted a cocktail party for the participants of the recently held third Chairman’s Cup. Beachwater, soft music, tasty appetizers, cool drinks and the enchanting sea laid witness to the warm smiles and hearty laughter that set the jovial mood. Big round tables were scattered along the magnificent beachfront, tastefully decorated with colorful flower centerpieces and huge umbrellas protecting us from the drizzle that threatened to ruin the evening’s perfection. As the beautiful women discreetly assisted them to their seats while at the same time asking them for their preferred potions. A quick glance would introduce curious onlookers to a speedboat converted into a delightful wet bar. Beside it, flower arrangements the height of the mighty Empire State Building and the beauty of our very own majestic Mayon and artful presentation of canapés were placed for our own picking.

Behind the culinary spectable was the sea. Raven black waters gently kissed powdery white sand, which caressed our feet. The rolling waters reflected a warm glow from incandescent bulbs strategically placed under the umbrellas, giving the place a bright, cheerful atmosphere. Noted names from the business, sports, social and government sectors graced the event. Among them were basketball legends Atoy Co and Freddie Jalasco, Brent International School’s princely Dick Robbins, McCormick’s charming James Chuaunsuy, READYCON’s indefatigable Jesse Ignacio, Philippine Sports Commission chair dapper Eric Buhain, Asian Spirit’s handsome Jun Farcon, and the amiable Bill Dy.

While having the time of my life, I noticed one of the most beautiful sights: the moon’s lustrous face on the sea’s almost smooth surface. It was a sight to behold! Moonbeams created the illusion of a silvery catwalk hypnotizing, enticing anyone to cross it and defy nature. For some moments, I envisioned the woman from Excalibur rising out and walking towards me. Dressed in a shimmering white gown, the cool strong wind billowing her hair like a goddess coming down from the heavens. Before I found myself totally enamored by the vision, laughter from another table broke my reverie.

Looking around, I noticed our smart host Toti Cariño sharing a hearty laugh with the other guests. Merry chords of Happy Birthday were heard at random. Relaxed was the word for the night. The great food, the cool drinks, the warm company and the beauty that was Boracay.

The following night was revelry at its best. Heavy rainfall turned into a downpour of wondrous blessings as we witnessed the dramatic unfolding of the awards night. Descending from Fairways’ grand Mediterranean-inspired clubhouse, we caught a glimpse of the spacious pool area magically transformed by the dedicated and hardworking staff into a romantic open-air dining area reminiscent of quaint Parisian street cafes. Round tables and lush seat cushions became a magnificent sea of blue and white reflecting Boracay’s azure waters and crystalline white sand. Caribbean music, courtesy of a superb local band, set the festive mood as guests enjoyed themselves to a sumptuous buffet of seafood, beef and vegetable dishes and hefty servings of mouth-watering lechon.

After the wonderful dinner, the long wait was finally over. But before the fabulous trophies were handed out, Fairways & Bluewater chair Toti Cariño gave his heartfelt thanks to the people who made the event a success. He also invited everyone to come back next year for the fourth Chairman’s Cup. Handsome Fairways & Bluewater GM Geb Bilbao, Fairways’ affable Bong Tirol, the stately James Chuaunsuy of McCormick, friendly Jun Farcon of Asian Spirit and Mr. Chairman himself presented the awards. Our columnist served as host. Exciting prizes ranging from appliances to complimentary stays at hotels and resorts were raffled off to lucky winners.

No celebration would be complete without music and dancing. Joining the gaiety were the amiable Steve Tajanlangit of Boracay Terraces Resort, the very regal Bonito Singson, and the irresistible Cong. Ricky Sandoval. People were in high spirits as they danced to the beat of cool ’70s and ’80s tunes until the wee hours of the morning.

Two nights of enchantment indeed!