Legends never retire: Senior tour in the offing

Mars Pucay, the newly elected president of the Pilipinas Senior Professional Golf Tour Organization (PSPGTO), is on a mission: to create a senior golf tour where experience is honored, talent is celebrated, and every player has a chance to shine.

“I wanted to support the legends of Philippine golf,” Mars says. “These are the players who paved the way for us, and it’s about keeping the love for the game alive at every stage of life.”

Mars isn’t just talking the talk — he’s already putting plans into action. The PSPGTO has been making waves since its first Pro-Am at Intramuros Golf Club in September, which drew 128 players, far exceeding expectations.

The upcoming LEADERS and LEGENDS Golf Cup on 26 November at Canlubang Golf and Country Club, featuring ₱P300,000 in prize money sponsored by Exceed Supernova Financials Group (ESFG), will include team and individual competitions across three age divisions: 50–59, 60–69, and 70+.

Following that, the 1st Stronghold Insurance Senior Open will take place 8 to 10 December at Hallow Ridge, further cementing the tour as a premier platform for senior pros.

But Mars’ vision goes beyond tournaments. He wants to build community, camaraderie and mentorship among senior golfers.

Annual events, like a Christmas Party Tournament, are designed to bring players together, foster friendships, and inspire younger golfers by sharing the stories and lessons of seasoned champions.

“We’re finding sponsors who believe in our mission,” Mars explains. “With the tour officers, we’re building something meaningful for the seniors — tournaments, support systems, and recognition for their contributions to the sport.”

For Mars, leadership means leading by example. He draws on the lessons from his years of competitive golf to shape the tour, hoping that in five years the PSPGTO will thrive with regular events, strong sponsorship, and opportunities for both veteran and incoming senior players.

“We may be seniors, but our love for the game hasn’t faded,” he says. “We want to continue playing, inspiring, and showing that golf is a lifelong journey.”

Mars Pucay brings both vision and experience to the role. Born on 26 February 1988, he has represented the Philippines in the World Cup of Golf, competing alongside top golfers like Angelo Que, and has made his mark in Asian tournaments, including the Singapore Open in 2010.

Pucay has consistently demonstrated his competitiveness in local tournaments.

In one Philippine Golf Tour event, he forced a six-way tie at the top with three birdies in the first six holes, showing his clutch play and steady nerves. He also captured a memorable win at Forest Hills in 2010, leading from start to finish with a two-under-par final round for a two-shot victory.

His ongoing participation against the country’s top professionals highlights his influence and unwavering commitment to Philippine golf.

With his competitive track record, professional experience and dedication to the sport, Mars Pucay is leading Philippine senior golf into a future that honors its past, empowers its present, and builds a lasting legacy.