All you need is love

MASTER BLASTER
Neil Bravo

The last time I covered the PAL Interclub was in 1999 when the longest-running club golf tournament played its 52nd edition here in Davao.

Now, 10 years later I am back writing my pieces on the Interclub and playing in the media tournament. It sure feels good to be back and to renew friendship with the guys in the sportswriting fraternity.

There are so many changes though.

Where we used to cover the PAL Interclub as a recognition of our profession, I have to literally squeeze myself through a tight cordon now. I do not mind a bit. With or without accreditation, I will continue to write what’s worth wrestling wits with. With or without invitation, I will continue to write my PAL Interclub Diaries.

While some think this is a privilege, I still consider this as another assignment. Another sports event worthy of sharing your thoughts with to the reading public.

I am sure the people from PAL, especially Atty. Doming Duerme, whose humble beginnings in golf I have chronicled including the infamous this-tee-shot-is-for-the-photographer ceremonial ball back in 1997 in Bacolod.

For its thick plot and dramatic finishes, I have considered the Interclub as among my favorite coverage. There is always a story behind the story. And just as when you are ready to wrap up your story, a late development would change the climax of the unfolding epic.

The powers of old, Canlubang and Luisita—theirs were the string of tight finishes, complex rivalries and time-honored loyalties. The new muscles, Southwoods and The Country Club—theirs are the spices that makes this brew a heady mix of twists and turns, and financial strengths.

For sure, the economic crisis also took a swing on the powers of the Interclub. The club that weathers this crunch will be a force not only this year but in the years to come.

And then there is always the friendship to look forward to. New friendships forged. Old friendships rekindled.

I may have not earned back my spot in the roster of Interclub media regulars but I know PAL’s own strengths is in its recognition of commitment and loyalty.

If I don’t. Thanks anyway. As my idol and kumpadre Al Mendoza would put it proudly on his shirt—All you need is love.

Oh, yes. I had fun sharing the music from Al’s ipod—armed to the teeth with a collection of Beatles, Queen, and Billy Holiday. Not even Master Blaster’s or Joe Black’s collection can beat that.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY. To my momma who turned 77. I’ll be home soon and I’ll do the cooking for you, mom. That’s a promise.

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