With a blend of experience and preparation, Dottie Ardina is determined to make her mark at the ICTSI Worldwide Link Philippine Ladies Masters, held at The Country Club (TCC) in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.
“I’ve been practicing and working on my swing. I don’t really expect anything, but the goal is always to win and do my best,” Ardina said, exuding humility and determination ahead of the $200,000 tournament.
A collaboration between the Korean LPGA, the LPGA of Taiwan (TLPGA), and the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour (LPGT), the 54-hole championship begins Wednesday, Feb. 12. It promises an intense competition featuring top players from all three tours, showcasing power, precision, and mental toughness on a demanding layout.
Ardina expressed excitement about playing at TCC in a competitive setting.
“It’s very exciting to play TCC again in tournament mode, not just in practice,” she said.
The tournament will test endurance, with players facing challenging fairways, swirling winds, and sweltering heat.
The traditional pro-am tournament kicks off today, pairing professionals with sponsors’ officials and guests in an 18-hole event. The pro-am fosters camaraderie and provides players with a chance to adjust to the course ahead of the main competition.
Ardina, a veteran of the LPGA and Epson Tours, also acknowledged the significance of hosting international players, particularly from the Korean LPGA Tour.
“It’s great to host these international players. I’m excited to see how they will perform at TCC, given its exacting challenge,” said Ardina, a Paris Olympics veteran and one of the ICTSI-backed golfers.
She believes the presence of top Korean players elevates the competition.
“The Korean LPGA Tour coming here to play is a good motivation for our local players and other Asian players. Next week will definitely feel like playing in the world’s premier circuit,” she added.
Despite the high stakes, Ardina refrained from naming favorites, acknowledging the unpredictability of the game.
“Anybody can win. I think whoever plays steady, makes putts, and manages the course well will win the tournament,” she said.
Ardina leads a strong Philippine contingent eager to take on the challenge, including top LPGT stars Princess Superal, Daniella Uy, Mikha Fortuna, Florence Bisera, Mafy Singson, Harmie Constantino, LK Go, Chihiro Ikeda, Marvi Monsalve, Pamela Mariano, Kayla Nocum, Gretchen Villacencio, Sunshine Baraquiel, and Korean prodigy Tiffany Lee.
The Koreans are considered favorites, led by Hwang Yoona, fresh off her victory at the Indonesian Open. Joining her are Cho Jeongmin, Song Ga-eun, Sohn Yebeen, Park Ye-Ji, and Yoo Dagyeom.
The TLPGA lineup includes world No. 4 Li Ning Wang, Chen Chih Min, Ching Huang, Chang Hsuan Ping, and Chang Yi Han. Thailand also boasts a formidable delegation featuring PK Kongkraphan, Saraporn Chamchoi, Chonlada Chayanun, Pakin Kawinpakorn, Ornnicha Konsunthea, Kamonwan Lueamsri, and Navaporn Soontreeyapas.
With a challenging course and a competitive field, the ICTSI Philippine Ladies Masters promises thrilling action as players from Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and the Philippines battle for supremacy.