Haroon helped by early entry into the sport

By Shamseer Jaleel

When Haroon Aslam visited with his uncle to Victoria Golf Country Course (VCGR), he wanted have a go. Padmanathan, one of the coaches, taught him the finer points of the game. This young lad was just nine-years-old at the time and this occurred seven years back in 2013 at Rajawella. 

From there onwards, there was no turning back for this golf sensation, who has already created history by winning many events at a very young age. Haroon who learnt his basics at VCGR later became a member at Nuwara Eliya Golf Course (NEGC) as well. It took only two months for the youngster to win his first event becoming second runner-up at the Junior Golf event at VCGR.

Haroon speaking to Daily FT said: “I am working hard to improve my golf even though the facilities available to me are limited. It takes about an hour to reach the golf club from home and that limits my chances to spend time in the golf course during school days. On average I only get to play in the course about eight times a month.”

NEGC Captain Priyanga Hapugalle speaking to Daily FT said: “At a time when Sri Lanka is looking to unearth young talent in the golfing circuit, it is refreshing to see youngsters like Haroon Aslam emerging. He has already competed at the highest levels in junior golf and is an exciting young prospect at national level, who needs to come under professional guidance and coaching. A regular competitor at NEGC, Haroon was also the runner-up at the recently concluded NEGC Club Championship held. We are sure to hear of him and his achievements in the future as well.”

Junior Golf promoter and ardent supporter of the game both at VCGR and NEGC, Tharanga Gunasekera, speaking to Daily FT said: “Haroon is without doubt the number one junior golfer in the boys category in Sri Lanka today. 

“As a supporter and promoter of Junior Golf in Sri Lanka, I have been impressed by the young lad’s progress over the years. He is a fierce competitor on the course with an amazing technique and flair, yet a humble and professional lad off the field. His track record at Victoria GC and NEGC at junior and amateur golf tournaments has been spectacular. But I hope he makes the country proud with his pursuits soon. He’s definitely a great talent to watch in the future.”