As golfing stars of the future look back at their time competing in the 8th edition of the Oceânico World Kids Golf Championship at Amendoeira Golf Resort, the team behind one of the most successful junior golf programs of its kind has been hailed for its’ dedication to creating such a unique event experience for junior golfers. With over 150 kids from across Europe competing in last weeks’ event, the 2016 edition continued to set the benchmark for junior golf tournaments, offering the ultimate Tour player experience on two world-class golf courses.
“This event typifies what the Oceânico Group is all about, and our commitment to supporting and developing all levels of the game,” commented Mr Christopher Howell, Chairman of the Oceânico Group, and pioneer behind the events’ growing appeal with junior golfers the world over. “A key aspect of this event it to make sure it leaves an impression on our competitors, inspiring them to play more and better golf. Some of the kids’ are as young as six years old, but for them to play in a friendly, competitive environment on great golf courses benefits both their golf and personal development.”
Having hosted The European Tour’s Portugal Masters since 2007, the Oceânico Group is well versed in staging world-class events, and the attention to detail by this year’s organisers was testament to the professionalism of the Oceânico team. The tournament started with an official opening ceremony, with competitors being welcomed under their national flags, whilst on the course players’ enjoyed on-course drinks stations, cooling ‘misters’ and were supported by their caddies, in official tournament caddy bibs, and tournament referees who were on-hand for any rules queries. Competitors also had to face the ultimate test of nerve, playing in front of the Sky Sports television cameras, which captured all the action to be aired on UK TV in the coming weeks.
This years’ event was made all the more poignant with the announcement from past winner Laurids Lohr that he will be turning professional at the age of 16, after claiming the Oceânico World Kids Golf Championship on three occasions.
“When I look back on my amateur career, the Oceânico World Kids Golf Championship is definitely a highlight. The professional staging of the event gave me a great idea of what it would be like to be a professional, and I think it is hard for some of the Pro Tours to keep up with the high standards. From staff, volunteers, the players’ lounge, leaderboards, and of course the two great courses; everything made us kids feel like real Pros!” commented Lohr.
“Golf has a unique ability to bring people together, encouraging positive character traits such as discipline, honesty, patience and commitment, and we hope this event will play its part in inspiring future generations to play and enjoy more golf,” concluded Howell.
Oceânico World Kids Golf Championship www.oceanicogolf.com/tournaments/