Abdon Triumphs in Emotional Victory at Mabuhay Miles Elite Invitational Golf Tournament

In a poignant display of skill and determination, senior golfer Ryan Abdon clinched the overall title at the Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles Elite invitational golf tournament, dedicating the win to his recently-departed wife, Amy.

Playing at the prestigious Manila Southwoods, the 67-year-old golfer shot a remarkable System 36 net four-under-par 68, fueled by an eagle and two birdies. Abdon’s standout moment came on the par-5 second hole of the Palmer layout, where he skillfully holed his third shot from thick rough, using a 54-degree wedge from about 20 yards. This incredible shot proved to be the game-changer in the fiercely contested centerpiece division.

Emotions ran high during the awarding ceremony as Abdon, still grieving his wife’s passing after a courageous battle with liver cancer, dedicated the victory to her. “This is for her,” Abdon expressed, his voice laden with sentiment. “I whispered a prayer to her at the start of the round, promising to win this for her.”

The tournament, held for the first time in five years, became an unforgettable chapter in Abdon’s golfing journey. The victory was worth not just the trophy but also 140,000 flier miles—a testament to his exceptional performance.

In addition to Abdon’s triumph, other standout players were recognized. Edmund Yee, the former Glowing Goldie for University of Santo Tomas in the UAAP, claimed the Seniors’ title with a gross 79 for a net 71. Jose Emmanuel Angeles took home the low gross trophy, earning 120,000 miles with his impressive score of 70.

The competition across different categories was fierce, with Vicente Solon winning the Class A championship and Richie Santos securing the Class C title. Notably, former Far Eastern U basketball star Jens Knuttel showcased his golfing prowess, clinching the Class B crown.

The event, themed “Reviving Legends,” was made possible by the Mabuhay Miles division of the Philippines’ flag carrier. Amidst the competition, attendees enjoyed an abundance of food and drinks, serenaded by the tunes of Mel Villenas, the AMP Band, and the sultry voice of Renee Olstead.

The tournament’s success was made possible by its sponsors: Major sponsors included MASTERCARD, ASIAN JOURNAL, and OKADA MANILA; Corporate sponsor PHILIPPINE NATIONAL BANK; Minor sponsors CONVERGE, ANANTARA RESORTS, NEWPORT WORLD RESORTS, MODALA RESORT, 357 BORACAY, and MICROWINE LIQUOR SHOP. Several companies, including ASIA BREWERY INC, TANDUAY DISTILLERS INC, CINDERELLA, HAROLDS HOTEL, HERTZ, ACACIA HOTEL, and others, participated in making the event memorable.

Abdon’s victory stood not only as a testament to his golfing prowess but also as a tribute to love lost, making it a truly heartwarming moment in the world of sports.