Singapore: Laguna National Golf Resort Club’s support for local players will be underlined again at next year’s Porsche Singapore Classic.

Nearly 100 participants will be vying for three spots in the DP World Tour’s US$2.5 million showpiece via the Porsche Singapore Classic 2025 – Qualifier on February 18.

The lucky trio will earn the opportunity to brush shoulders with some of the world’s top players during the third edition of the Porsche Singapore Classic, to be staged over Laguna National’s Classic Course from March 20-23 as the opening event on the Tour’s ‘Asian Swing’.

Among those hoping to emulate the uplifting feats of last year’s Singaporean qualifiers – Nicklaus Chiam, Joshua Yap and Irvyn Tan – are local and regional talents eager to shine on the international stage.

While Chiam topped the standings with a 71, Yap edged out Thailand’s Amarin Kraivixien in a play-off and Tan qualified as the low Singapore amateur.

“We are delighted to host this qualifier, which not only guarantees representation from Singapore but also ensures a competitive field of the highest calibre,” said Kevin Kwee, Executive Director at Laguna National, a Facility Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

“Supporting the development of golf talent in Singapore is a cause we are deeply committed to, and we’re thrilled to give local and regional golfers the chance to compete on a global stage,” he added.

The qualifier includes an official practice round on February 17, followed by an 18-hole competition the next day. The top two overall competitors and the top Singaporean amateur will gain entry to the Porsche Singapore Classic.

To encourage local participation, Laguna National is subsidising entry fees by 50% for Singaporean players and offering access to practice facilities in the weeks leading up to the event.

Kwee added: “Qualifiers offer a merit-based pathway to a golf championship, rewarding those who outperform their peers. Last year we were thrilled to see three Singaporeans qualify, and we hope to see this incredible achievement repeated in 2025.”

Launched in 2023, the inaugural Porsche Singapore Classic was won by South African Ockie Strydom, who closed with a nine-under-par 63 to secure a one-stroke victory.

In 2024, Sweden’s Jesper Svensson captured his first DP World Tour title after a dramatic play-off with Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat. Svensson went on to be named the DP World Tour’s Rookie of the Year and earn playing rights to the PGA Tour this year.

Laguna National has a rich history of hosting major events, including the Singapore Masters, the Aramco Team Series and the China LPGA Tour’s Singapore Ladies Masters.