STA. ROSA, Laguna — The Country Club Invitational pro-am tees off Monday at the TCC course, setting a high bar for the 20th staging of the Philippine Golf Tour’s (PGT) flagship tournament.

Like in the previous year, the event pairs one professional and one guest amateur, creating a dynamic and engaging competition that challenges both skill and strategy.

Breaking away from the conventional pro-am format of one pro and three amateurs, the tournament introduces a new team dynamic. This approach enhances camaraderie among participants and provides a more competitive environment, where the skills of both amateurs and pros are tested equally.

Such a setup amplifies the stakes, as players are encouraged to contribute meaningfully to their team’s success, fostering a sense of collective achievement.

The top 30 players from last year’s PGT Order of Merit are each paired with one guest amateur from the sponsoring ICTSI. This strategic pairing not only strengthens the bond between sponsors and players but also creates a platform for amateurs to experience professional-level competition alongside the sport’s elite.

The 18-hole event isn’t just for fun — it’s the ultimate warm-up for the P6 million championship that kicks off on Tuesday. Defending champion and 2024 Order of Merit winner Tony Lascuña leads the charge, alongside record-chasing three-time TCC Invitational titlist Angelo Que and two-time champion Guido van der Valk.

With such a stellar lineup, the stakes are higher than ever, as players vie not just for bragging rights but also to gain vital momentum and confidence for the grueling 72-hole main event.

The field also includes top talents like Clyde Mondilla, Rupert Zaragosa, Keanu Jahns and Daiya Suzuki, to name a few.

Emerging stars Sean Ramos and LJ Go bring fresh energy to the mix, ensuring a thrilling contest.

Launched in 2003 by ICTSI chairman and CEO Ricky Razon to honor his father, Don Pocholo, The Country Club Invitational has grown into an iconic annual event. It brings together the nation’s finest and emerging golf talents, fostering the development of the sport while preserving its legacy.