Time to shine for Taguines, Superal

MANILA, Philippines — Arnie Taguines and Eagle Ace Superal won’t be just chasing the low amateur honors in the ICTSI Mount Malarayat Challenge but the overcall championship as well when the P750,000 event unfolds tomorrow in Lipa City, Batangas.

Taguines is due for a big finish, fresh from topping their side of the duel in the last Ladies Philippine Golf Tour stop at Caliraya last month while Superal is raring to break a long spell and check a dip in form with a strong performance this week.

The two other amateurs in the compact field – Martina Miñoza and Lesley Icoy – are using the 54-hole tournament to gain entry into the country’s premier ladies pro circuit.

Amateurs need to break 82 in all three days to earn their pro cards with the next stop of the ICTSI-backed tour, the Splendido Challenge, slated May 24 to 26 to be held simultaneously with the third leg of the Philippine Golf Tour.

The top amateurs have provided a strong challenge to the touring ladies, and the circuit has provided them the venue to hone their talent and skills with the likes of SEA Games stalwart and two-time AJGA (American Junior Golf Association) champion Rianne Malixi.