Januarius eyes breakthrough triumph

BAGUIO CITY — With three formidable teams in the field, Januarius is hoping for a breakthrough win in the 74th Januarius Fil-Am Invitational that is being held at the Camp John Hay Golf Club and Baguio Country Club here.

Leading the Januarius contingent is the Private Equity squad composed of Jet Mathay, Terence Macatangay, Ray Sangil, Ayon Sanchez, Kirby Lachica and new recruit Masa Otake, who are all determined to make an impact in the oldest and biggest team championship in the world.

Last year, the Januarius Private Equity displayed impressive form in the first two rounds of action. But disaster struck as breaks didn’t go their way, leading to a heart-breaking third-place finish behind powerhouse Manila Southwoods and Eastridge.

This time, however, Januarius team manager Paolo Cagalingan believes that they have what it takes to contend for the title, especially in the premier Fil Championship division.

“We are pitted against national team players and other young guns who aspire and train daily to turn professional,” said Cagalingan, particularly wary of the Carmona-based Southwoods squad, which is parading the core of the national squad in Filipino-British Enrique Dimayuga, Jet Hernandez and Shinichi Suzuki.

“Our teams are composed mainly of top club players. We have great chemistry and will rely not on their skills but their extensive experience and course knowledge. We are prepared and will contend for the championship.”

For the Am Championship division, the Januarius Truespec will be led by Cagalingan, Charles Hong, Jonar Austria, Marco Olives, RJ Rizada and Migo Ochoa, who made an ace during the practice round.