Friday, February 29, 2008 Magical shots recalled; Davao is host next year
BACOLOD CITY -- Three years ago, one of the most dramatic endings in the Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub history took place here. Manila Southwoods won the title in the championship division over Canlubang on the last round, on the last flight, and down to the last man and last hole of competition.
On a fine, sunny day at the Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club in Marapara, Tonton Asistio and Michael Bibat carried Southwoods to a memorable two-point victory with sterling performances in the final round, specially in the 18th hole where the two youngsters authored magical shots that regaled spectators who had gathered at the clubhouse for the unfolding drama.
Asistio was the first one to strike. From behind a tree and his ball resting on the rough making it impossible for him to play through the air, Asistio let his ball roll from afar as if he was putting from way, way out.
Some of Southwoods supporters and players who had finished their round earlier refused to even watch the shot that Asistio took knowing the predicament the latter was in with the championship on the line.
After taking a deep breath and studying his position for several minutes, Asistio made his third shot and it was a good one as his ball climbed up the 18th green and made its way and disappeared into the hole.
Pandemonium broke lose. Asistio had just scored an eagle out of a very difficult lie. Given up for dead moments ago, Southwoods was alive with that shot.
But, Canlubang refused to be shaken by that shot and held its own nerve to force the fight to the last man. Then came Bibat. From another bad lie and way, way out, Bibat punched in a daring third shot and hit the green for a birdie opportunity.
Still, it was not an easy one for Bibat as he faced a 12-foot birdie putt. With Asistio and his teammates watching intently, Bibat calmly sank the birdie putt that all but clinched the crown as Canlubang's last man finally wilted under tremendous pressure.
From the City of Smiles, the PAL Interclub will hit the City of Durian when Davao City plays host to the 2009 edition of the golf championships.
Davao was picked to host again the country's acknowledged national golf team championship during the team captain's meeting Tuesday.
This early, golfers and even sportswriters covering the annual event are excited to visit Davao once again. One photographer said he likes the food in Davao, especially bagaybay and panga. (CRAM)
