5-round tryout to determine national golf team

The Commonwealth Federation of Golf Association will use 90 holes of golf encompassing five rounds as a tryout for the CNMI National Golf Team that will compete in the 2022 Pacific Mini Games here on home soil. (Contributed Photo)

The Commonwealth Federation of Golf Association will use 90 holes of golf encompassing five rounds as a tryout for the CNMI National Golf Team that will compete in the 2022 Pacific Mini Games here on home soil.

CFGA vice president J.J. Atalig said ultimately players that will be chosen for the national team will be determined by their “low gross scores, stamina, agility, and ability to perform under stressful conditions posted after five rounds.”

Then it only gets tougher in the final phase of the tryout, according to Atalig.

“The last three days of tryouts will be 18 holes walking and again it’s based on low gross scores. Based on yardage calculation, each player will be walking at least 4.2 miles. Tryouts are open to adult males, junior males, adult females, and junior females,” he said.

On picking the national golf coach, the CFGA official said they already have potential candidates that agreed to coach.

“Names will be submitted on the next Commonwealth Federation of Golf Associations meeting. The selection process will be based on commitment, knowledge of the game of golf, basic knowledge with the rules of golf, and a person must have patience and be able to communicate with athletes in regards to goals and objectives that needs to be achieved,” he said.

CFGA is looking at recruiting one men’s coach and women’s coach.

“The Pacific Mini Games Organizing Committee is assisting the federation in getting officials certified to make critical decisions during competition.”

Earlier, CFGA selected Coral Ocean Resort as the venue for the 2020 Pacific Mini Games golf competition.

“It is the longest golf course in our region at 7,160 yards and with additional wind in play, it will play much longer…The federation is in contact with the golf course venue to make sure that it is prepared to get it at competition level and to showcase premier golf destinations for future competition in the CNMI,” said Atalig.

As for equipment, CFGA already submitted a short list to the Pacific Mini Games Organizing Committee.

Among the equipment they’ve requested include uniforms, hats, golf balls (based on player), golf bags, headcovers for players equipment, and trackman (launch monitor).

“The CFGA is excited to bring golf competition to the CNMI and most especially to showcase one of the longest golf courses in our region. We have a diverse team in the federation that is composed of different and unique talents to address critical needs,” said Atalig.

CFGA has yet to send out any sponsorship packets to businesses, but does welcome businesses that wish to donate monetary or in-kind to benefit the CNMI National Golf Team.

Atalig also said that CFGA is planning a golf fundraiser this coming July 24 at the Coral Ocean Resort.

“Details are not final yet, but we are inviting the entire golfing community to help and support us.”

Aside from Atalig, CFGA’s officers include president Edward Manibusan, secretary/treasurer Lorraine Babauta, social and media officer Gerilyn Dela Cruz, golf tournament coordinators Marco Peter and Joey Dela Cruz. Peter incidentally is also the chairman of the Pacific Mini Games Organizing Committee.