Flu-stricken Singson ready for PLO, pro golf debut

MANILA, Philippines – Down with flu-like symptoms, Mafy Singson remains unwavering in her focus on the upcoming Philippine Ladies Open even as she sets her sights on her professional debut.

The PLO, which unwraps Tuesday, February 20, at the Manila Golf Club, has attracted some of the region’s leading players and emerging stars, alongside the local aces.

A national team mainstay, Singson is determined to deliver her best performance despite a setback in her preparation for the 54-hole championship. Currently bedridden with a fever and body aches less than a week before the event, she recognizes the importance of rest in conjunction with intense training.

“Unfortunately, it’s less than a week before the first day of the event and I’m down in bed with a fever and body aches,” said Singson. “I think it was my body telling me that rest is also equally, if not more, important as grinding.”

But the ICTSI-backed shotmaker, who has won a couple of tournaments in the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour, maintains optimism about her chances in the country’s premier ladies golf championship.

“The PLO has always been a fun event that I look forward to. Although it stopped during the pandemic, I’m glad to see it back up and running again,” said Singson.

Despite her recent health challenges, Singson has stayed in shape during the break with early workouts, rounds of play, and putting drills to keep her stroke and feel intact. She has also worked on her swing with coach Bong Lopez at the range.

While acknowledging the tough competition ahead, Singson expressed her excitement for the event while underscoring the need to prioritize her health.

“I’ll do my best to play well and see how it goes. Still excited for this event but just need to prioritize my health,” she said.

Meanwhile, as the local pro circuit kicks off next month, Singson confirmed her plans to turn pro this year, regardless of her performance in next week’s event.

“I will do my best and I am hoping to perform well in this event,” she said. “But I will still turn pro this year regardless of my finish in PLO.”