RP opens bid in World Cup elims

The Philippines’ Gerald Rosales and Angelo Que open their bid in the Nations Cup today, hoping for a top-four finish among 16 teams and gain a stint at the US$4 million at the World Cup later this year.

The Filipinos are among the early favorites along with the bets from Myanmar, Taiwan, Malaysia, India and host Singapore at the Laguna National Golf and Country Club’s Classic Course but the chase for World Cup places is expected to be a race to the finish line.

"Ok naman ang practice namin. I think we have a good chance," said Rosales, who is coming off a joint 11th place finish in last week’s Mercuries Masters in Taiwan.

"It’s going to be exciting because of the format," said Myanmar’s veteran Kyi Hla Han, who is aiming for a fourth World Cup appearance.

"As we’re playing fourball and foursomes on alternate days, it is important to have a solid team partnership. I’ve always looked forward to the Nations Cup as I believe it’s an opportunity for Asian teams to get into the World Cup and test our game against the world’s best players. We are getting better."

While the Nations Cup, which sees teams from Asia, Europe and Africa competing this week, does not offer prize money, qualifying for the World Cup at Kiawah Island, United States in November is enticing.

The World Cup winners will split US$1 million while the last-placed team will earn at least US$15,000 each at the tournament, which is part of the World Golf Championships.