Around 50 promising young golfers from across Luzon are set to see action when the Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines’ (JGFP) Northern Luzon Junior Open fires off on 16 May at the John Hay Golf in Baguio City.
Dubbed as the “Baguio Classic,” the highly-anticipated event underscores JGFP’s commitment to discover and nurture emerging golf talents from the grassroots.
The tournament is open to junior golfers aged 6 to 18 and aims to serve as a platform for developing the next generation of champions.
The Baguio Classic tournament will also serve as a prelude to a special training camp to be conducted by top Filipino junior golfer Rianne Malixi from 20 to 22 May.
In partnership with JGFP, Malixi will launch “The Big Leap” at the Northwoods Golf and Country Club in San Rafael, Bucalan. The initiative aims to help and support young golfers with the potential of becoming world-class talents.
As part of the expert lineup for the training camp, Dr. Joann Tan, a renowned sports nutritionist and managing director of John Hay Golf, joins the team to provide guidance on performance nutrition and recovery. Her role highlights the importance of integrating wellness and discipline into sports development.
Other mentors include June Cedo, Hanson So, Willie Panganiban, Venjo Reyes and Aileen Yao. Resource speakers will also feature Marc Caron (strength and conditioning), Normandy Sto. Domingo (etiquette) and Bob Winters (sports psychology).
“We’re truly grateful to John Hay Golf for opening its doors to young golfers in the region,” JGFP president Oliver Gan said.
“This partnership, with the full support of executive director Dr. Joann Tan, strengthens our efforts to grow the sport and empower young talents.”
Following the Junior Open, John Hay Golf will also host the annual “Parent and Child” tournament on 17 May. This family-centered event caps off a dynamic week of youth development, with prizes awaiting winners of the Summer Series.
Slots for both tournaments remain open in partnership with the Baguio Junior Golf Association.