Rosales to grace RP-Japan Jungolf

US Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) standout Jenny Rosales will join VIPs in hitting the ceremonial balls for the inaugural Philippines-Japan Friendship tournament Monday at the scenic Tagaytay Midlands Golf Club.

Rosales, one of the most successful products of the local jungolf movement, will take a break from her training for the new LPGA season to grace the year’s opening event for junior golf.

"She’s really excited to see the kids and we know the kids are looking forward to meeting her as well," said Amalia "Mommy" Montecillo of Jenny who had 2003 as her best season in a four-year pro career.

The best jungolfers of the country are facing off with a delegation from Fukuoka, Japan in the 36-hole tourney sponsored by Tagaytay Midlands, Comworks, Milkjoy, IWSI, Bong Lopez Golf Management and La Jolla Golf.

Boys and girls from both countries will be contending for the top awards in Class A (15-17 years), Class B (13-14) and Class C (11-12) and the special division for those 10 years and below.

The RP-Japan tiff is actually an extension of a busy holiday break for local jungolfers punctuated by close duels in all age-groups.

Nonoy Negrido, unbeaten in his last four tournaments, and PSA awardee Jayvie Agojo head the Philippine challenge in Class A.

Also entered are the standouts of last year’s overseas campaigns including US Kids World champions Dottie Ardina and AR Ramos, Desert Classic winners Terence Macatangay and Wolen Superal, Sarawak Chief Ministers Cup titlist Ma-an Legaspi and Andie Unson, the best performer in the Junior World.

The Japanese are arriving today and will motor straight to the exclusive Tagaytay Highlands where they will stay during the tournament.