1 month ago
15
The Philippine Star
January 20, 2025 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — Foiled on his three-peat bid last year, Guido van der Valk is determined to redeem himself – not only at The Country Club Invitational in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, beginning Jan. 28, but throughout the entire 2025 Philippine Golf Tour season.
Van der Valk’s 2024 campaign began promisingly, with a playoff loss and two runner-up finishes in the first two legs of the 10-leg circuit. However, his form faltered as the season progressed, leaving the Manila-based Dutchman winless.
Now, Van der Valk is focused on building strength, refining his game, and, most importantly, regaining the steadiness that propelled him to past successes. His journey begins with the much-awaited P6 million TCC Invitational.
Known for its grueling layout, the tournament features a select field of former champions and the Top 30 players from the previous season’s Order of Merit rankings.
Van der Valk previously claimed the TCC title in 2020 with a one-stroke victory over Clyde Mondilla and dominated LJ Go by five strokes in 2023 after the tournament’s two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.
This year, Van der Valk anticipates fierce competition from an elite field, including record-chaser Angelo Que, who is eyeing a fourth TCC title.
