ICTSI Eagle Ridge: Experience vs youth

MANILA, Philippines — The stage is set for a classic generational clash as the second leg of the ICTSI Philippine Golf Tour kicks off today at the demanding Faldo course of Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club in Gen. Trias, Cavite.

On one side stands the seasoned veterans, headlined by Pradera Verde runaway winner Angelo Que and five-time PGT Order of Merit champion Tony Lascuña.

On the other side is a wave of rising stars, led by impressive runner-up Carl Corpus, PGT Q-School low medalist Jaehyun Jung, and a slew of young talents hungry for a breakthrough win in the early going of this year’s circuit organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

The storyline couldn’t be more compelling: Will experience prevail once more, or will the new generation finally seize control?

Que, fresh off his emphatic six-shot victory in Pampanga, looms as the heavy favorite. His confidence is sky-high after proving that, at 46, he still has what it takes to dominate the younger field.

“I still believe I can win against these young guys,” said Que. “I’ve got the experience, the mental toughness, and my game feels great.”

Meanwhile, absence of a clear favorite and the looming threat of rising Korean contenders have set the stage for an unpredictable and intense battle in the ladies competition.

With last week’s surprise champion Samantha Bruce resuming her campaign abroad and a couple of top local stars competing in the Thailand LPGA, the field is now wide open, leaving Filipina hopefuls and international contenders locked in a heated chase for the coveted championship.

But as the competition resets, a growing Korean presence, led by Seoyun Kim and Tiffany Lee, threatens to overshadow the homegrown talents.