Anuradhapura juniors shine at Regional Golf Opens

Wednesday, 30 October 2024 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The picturesque city of Anuradhapura is making waves in junior golf, thanks to the dedicated efforts of young athletes eager to showcase their talents. Spearheaded by the Sri Lanka Junior Golf Development Committee and supported by Prima Sunrise Bread, the Regional Junior Opens in Kandy and Hambantota have become defining moments for these burgeoning golfers. Prima Sunrise Bread, a steadfast supporter of junior golfers for more than 16 years, remains the backbone of this initiative.

The structured approach to the Regional Junior Open golf tournaments has created an invaluable platform for talent identification, enabling young golfers to compete and hone their skills in a supportive environment. These tournaments are not only about winning but also about fostering a love for the sport, developing a passion for excellence, and building lifelong friendships among participants.

Under the guidance of Priya Hemantha, a dedicated coach assigned by Sri Lanka Golf, several junior golfers from Anuradhapura have shown remarkable promise. Hemantha’s coaching has played a pivotal role in their development, ensuring that they are not only skilled players but also well-rounded individuals.

The recent opening of the Sri Lanka Air Force, Anuradhapura Heritage Golf Course has further enhanced opportunities for junior players. This new facility provides a friendly environment where they can practice, develop their skills, and compete, marking a significant milestone in promoting golf in the region.

Anuradhapura’s junior golfers have recently made their mark on a larger stage, winning five out of seven divisions at the Shangri La Hambantota tournament. This outstanding achievement is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and potential in the sport.

Emerging talents such as Dulkini Kangara, Abiman Abeywardhana, Genuli Weerakoon, Vihara Herath, Lavidu Premarathna, Kaveesha Sadaruwan, and Adithya Weerasinghe have consistently demonstrated their capabilities, turning heads and setting themselves apart from their peers.

The success of these junior golfers can be attributed to the unwavering commitment and support they receive from their parents, schools, and well-wishers. The financial backing for equipment and resources has created an enabling environment, allowing these young athletes to focus exclusively on their game.

The rise of junior golf in Anuradhapura not only holds promise for the individual players but also shines a light on the potential growth of the sport in Sri Lanka. As these young golfers continue to develop their skills and compete at various levels, they may well pave the way for future generations of golfers, ensuring that Anuradhapura remains a vital hub for golf talent in the country. (SJ)