Zanjoe Marudo does a Justin Timberlake

MANILA, Philippines - Let’s play word association. Utter the name Zanjoe Marudo and some of these words may come to mind: tall, dark, and handsome. You may also think: funny. Big Brother. Bench Underwear model. Now, try this one: golf.

Yes, this fashion model-turned-reality TV-star-turned-versatile-actor, who can go from light drama in Lovers in Paris to his hot scenes in Maalala Mo Kaya to his comic antics in Banana Split, and who will soon star in an exciting new video and movie project, is now an avid golfer. It may be difficult to reconcile this happy-go-lucky young man with the historic and gentlemanly game of golf, but once you hear him speak of his addiction to golf, you will feel the depth of his commitment to the sport.

He is so passionate about golf that he has converted Banana Split co-star John Prats and ASAP XV star Rayver Cruz into golfers as well. Now, he is organizing Z Cup, an invitational celebrity golf tournament, to spread the love of golf.

PHILIPPINES STAR: Where did you get the idea for the Z Cup?

ZANJOE: Well, I was inspired by Justin Timberlake. Not only does he have his own tournament, he also built his very own eco-friendly golf course! Plus, he teaches underprivileged and less-fortunate but deserving kids how to play golf. I’m not there yet, but that’s my ultimate goal. Of course, I’m not yet good enough to teach, but that will be the next step. I don’t think it’s right to just pick any charity. It has to be close to your heart and something that you believe in. I’d love to share my love for golf to kids who are passionate about the sport but can’t afford the clubs and the pro fees. We hope to raise funds through the Z Cup. It is also my dream to follow Justin’s footsteps (to teach kids how to play golf), not just his dance moves.

What made you fall in love with golf?

Like a lot of people, I used to think, pang matanda lang ang golf (golf is only for old people). I never thought that I could play golf. But when I tried the game, iba pala (it’s different). It’s so addicting and challenging. It’s really a mental thing, a game for people with tough minds, nang taong may utak (thinking people). When you’re on the golf course, you forget everything — your problems, your work, and other people. It’s just you and the game. You’ll even forget you’re out in the sun. In fact, my friends couldn’t believe that I play golf regularly. Well, you won’t feel it’s summer because your mind is just so focused on the game — which club to use, what went wrong with the swing, or how to score better on the next hole.

What got you interested in the game?

When I was in Paris, konti lang ang TV channels. Then I saw this golf channel and watched the shows during my break. The first time I hit a golf ball, I was able to hit it quite far, napalipad ko yung bola! Ayun, na-addict na ako. (That got me addicted.)

And now your co-workers have been infected by your new found passion?

Yes, John Prats and Rayver Cruz. Even if they are beginners, enjoy sila. You can’t force others to love golf. But once they try it, if they like it, the bonding is different.

Who else have you invited to the Z Cup?

Lahat! Basta they play golf, I invited them: Piolo Pascual, Sam Milby, and John Lloyd Cruz. I really want to change the image of golf. I want people to see that it can be a sport for the young.

Are you enjoying getting your new golf outfits?

Of course! It plays a big part. You have to be presentable on and off the golf course. If you look good on the course, you tend to intimidate your opponents, di ba? (right?).

How did golf change you as a person?

It taught me to be patient even at work. In golf, patience is so important.

What’s the most important lesson golf has taught you?

In golf, you will see the true personality of a person. If you are hot-tempered you will throw your clubs and yell at your caddy. If you are a patient person, you will just persevere, lalabas ang tiyaga (Your tenacity will be revealed). I have really seen all these (scenarios) on the golf course. Now, I understand why most business deals are closed on the golf course.

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Naturally, all this serious talk about golf made me think that Zanjoe has truly evolved. Such maturity, such earnestness. But when I checked my e-mail, I saw some shots of Zanjoe doing goofy poses as he prepared to putt and these photos brought on a chuckle. Well, perhaps it’s not just golf that has changed Zanjoe. But just maybe, Zanjoe can also change golf.