STA. ROSA, Laguna — At Sta. Elena Golf and Country Club, the spotlight doesn’t shine only on the players. Beyond the pristine greens and perfect swings, there are stories of real people — of connection, kindness, and a week they’ll never forget.

Take Claire Bue, one of only 10 local caddies chosen for the International Series Philippines presented by Bingo Plus. The 31-year-old mother of two carries more than just clubs — she carries a quiet strength shaped by life’s rough rounds. Separated from her Fil-German husband (hence the foreign-sounding surname), Claire has spent the last eight years mastering the greens of Sta. Elena.

During practice rounds, she met rising Chinese star Jin Zihao, and their partnership began with a simple question that would change her week:

“Can you be my caddie until the end?” Jin asked in fluent English.

Surprised, Claire later learned that Jin studied at San Diego State University and had lived in the United States since 2011. Their work relationship quickly turned into easy camaraderie. Between holes, they talked not just about golf but about life — Jin revealing that this was already his 30th tournament of the season, and that he didn’t even have a permanent address.

Claire describes him as polite and thoughtful — the kind of player who’d help push the cart without being asked. But once he steps up to the tee, Jin transforms. His drives explode off the clubface, sailing over 320 yards, impressive for his 5’9” frame.

He’s also fallen in love with Sta. Elena, calling it one of the most beautiful courses he’s ever played — fast greens, lush fairways, and a layout that demands precision. After 54 holes, Jin sits six-under-par, ready for a Sunday charge, with Claire right there beside him, sharing in every triumph and near-miss.

Then there’s Maxinne Francisco, a 23-year-old Manila-based model who began the week knowing absolutely nothing about golf. Stationed at the players’ lounge reception, she quickly discovered that golfers are, as she puts it, “a surprisingly friendly bunch.”

Among her favorites are Marc Leishman, John Catlin, James Piot, Maximilian Rottluff, and Ollie Schniederjans, who never fails to make her laugh by blurting out “Kwarento Dos!” or “Apatnapu’t dalawa!” — his player number in Filipino.

“It’s been such an exhilarating week,” Maxinne says with a grin.