Faldo course to test LPGT field at Eagle Ridge Championship 

MANILA, Philippines — Redemption and resilience take center stage as the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour stages its second leg at the formidable Faldo course of Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club in Gen. Trias, Cavite, starting on March 10.

With no clear favorite and a battlefield primed for drama, the tournament promises an intense showdown among top contenders looking to rebound from near misses in last week's opener at Pradera Verde.

With first-time LPGT champion Samantha Bruce resuming her campaign abroad and several local standouts competing in the Thailand LPGA, the chase for the Eagle Ridge crown is anyone's game. The absence of a dominant force leaves the door wide open for the likes of Daniella Uy, Chanelle Avaricio, Sarah Ababa, Mafy Singson, Mikha Fortuna and Florence Bisera, all eager to shake off previous disappointments and seize victory.

However, the Faldo course, a demanding layout, poses a different kind of challenge. Designed to test precision, patience and adaptability, it's tricky greens and strategic hazards will be further compounded by unpredictable winds, adding another layer of difficulty to an already fierce competition.

Among the strongest international threats is Seoyun Kim, who tied for second with Uy at Pradera Verde, while fellow Korean Tiffany Lee is determined to sharpen her finishing touch after recent final-round struggles, seeking to redeem herself after faltering despite holding a share of the 36-hole lead last week.

With conditions set to be a major factor, expect a tightly contested duel for early control among Singson, Uy, Avaricio, Fortuna and Bisera, each raring to prove their mettle in the P750,000 championship sponsored by ICTSI and organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

Adding further intrigue, reigning LPGT Order of Merit champion Harmie Constantino is keen on a resurgence after a surprising 22nd-place finish at Pradera Verde. Last season's winningest player with four titles to her name, Constantino is expected to mount a strong comeback next week.

Other notable challengers include Martina Miñoza, Chihiro Ikeda, Kristine Fleetwood, Pamela Mariano, Velinda Castil, Apple Fudolin, Kayla Nocum, Rev Alcantara, Gretchen Villacencio and young Annika Cedo, all seeking to make their mark on the Faldo course bound to test the field's skill and endurance, ensuring a thrilling, unpredictable battle. TMT