Philippine golfers have a real shot at Rio Olympics – NGAP

MANILA, Philippines – National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP) President Caloy Coscolluela believes that the country’s Olympic bets have a real chance on the greens at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. 

“You could be top-ranked or not at all, but the sport gives everyone an equal chance to win it,” said the long time director of the country’s golf association. “It’s a 4-day tournament so you just go out there and perform.” 

Coscolluela bared that 21-year old Miguel Luis Tabuena, who recently won his first Philippine Sportswriters Association Sportsman of the Year for 2015 after he picked up his first championship during the Philippine Open, is a shoo-in for an Olympic berth. 

“Miguel Tabuena is very sure of getting that precious Olympic slot,” said Cosculluela. “Angelo Que could also make it pending his performance in the next few months.” 

“We do not choose the players,” clarified the NGAP boss. “But the International Golf Federation (IGF) chooses the players based on the rankings. Based on their system, only the top 60 for both men and women’s divisions will go to the Olympics.”

The youthful Tabuena has 9 professional wins including one in the Asian Tour. Last February 1, he finished fourth along with South Korea’s Song Young-Han in the $1-Million Singapore Open. 

The 37-year old Que is a 13-year pro golfer with 4 professional wins including three in the Asian circuit.  

Tabuena is currently ranked no. 37 by the IGF while Que is at no. 52.

“The final Olympic berths won’t be known until July 11,” added Coscolluela. “Miguel looks very good. Angelo is fine as well but he will have to maintain or improve his position just to solidify that spot for Rio. All I can say is, when we get there (Rio), we have a good chance. I have a good feeling about our chances.” – Rappler.com