Zaragosa Returns to Marapara With History in Sight
BACOLOD - Rupert Zaragosa is set to return to Bacolod next week with an opportunity to make Philippine Golf Tour history at the PHP2.5-million ICTSI Negros Occidental Classic. The 29-year-old Davao native is seeking a third consecutive victory at Marapara Golf and Country Club, a feat that would make him the first player to win a Philippine Golf Tour tournament three straight years. The tournament is scheduled to begin with a rare Monday start, putting the spotlight once again on Zaragosa and his strong record at the Bacolod course.
A Course That Fits Zaragosa’s Game
Zaragosa has enjoyed considerable success at Marapara, which features a relatively short but challenging tree-lined layout with numerous bends. Rather than favoring players who rely primarily on distance, the course rewards accuracy and careful shot placement. Zaragosa has credited the shape of the course for complementing his style of play, while also pointing to his partnership with local caddy Jimmy Decena as an important factor. Decena's knowledge of the greens, fairway bounces, and course conditions has helped Zaragosa navigate the layout during his previous victories. Last year, Zaragosa finished with a 14-under 266 total over 72 holes, while his previous victory came in a tournament shortened to 36 holes because of heavy rain.
A Strong Field Awaits at the Negros Classic
The upcoming tournament will be the sixth leg of the Philippine Golf Tour season, following events at Lakewood, Caliraya Springs, Pinewoods, Pradera Verde, and Summit Point. Zaragosa will face a competitive field that includes familiar rival Angelo Que, who has won twice this season and recently captured the Summit Point tournament by two strokes. Que is also the defending Philippine Golf Tour Order of Merit champion. With several accomplished players preparing to compete, the ICTSI Negros Occidental Classic is expected to bring another week of high-level professional golf to Bacolod while giving Zaragosa another opportunity to build on his remarkable record at Marapara.
