By PEAKLIFE
The lush greens of the Karnataka Golf Association played host to an exciting showcase of young golfing talent as The Leela Palace Bengaluru successfully concluded its third annual shotgun tournament on March 8, 2025. Building upon the success of its previous editions, this year’s event saw an inspiring blend of budding golf stars and seasoned professionals coming together in the spirit of sportsmanship and mentorship.
A Platform for Young Aspirations
What truly set this tournament apart was its unwavering commitment to nurturing young golfing talent. Hosted in collaboration with the Junior Golf Development Programme and the Karnataka Golf Association, the event placed children at the forefront, with participants aged between 8 and 18 demonstrating remarkable skill and dedication. The tournament attracted over 40 young golfers, with an impressive 70% returning for a second time, highlighting its growing significance in the junior golf circuit.
Beyond the players themselves, the event drew support from 80 corporate professionals and industry leaders who played alongside the young golfers, reinforcing the importance of mentorship and encouragement in shaping the future of Indian golf.
A Glimpse into the Future of Indian Golf
The tournament not only showcased incredible talent but also served as a testament to the rapid rise of young Indian golfers on the global stage. Many of the participants have already made a mark in prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Kids Indian Championship, U.S. Kids World Juniors, and international events in Singapore and Malaysia. With multiple top finishes in the IGU South Zone (India) and Epic WRX All India Tour, these emerging athletes are proving that India is fast becoming a force to reckon with in the world of golf.
Adding to the prestige of the event was the presence of legendary all-rounder and President of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), Shri Kapil Dev, who inaugurated the tournament with a shotgun tee-off. An avid golfer himself, he lauded The Leela’s efforts in supporting young talent, stating, “The beauty of our country is that we can give children the space to play and dream. You never know which child will shine and make us proud. I’m glad to see The Leela stepping in to promote sports and provide young talent with the platform they deserve. Give them the opportunity, and the rest will come through their talent and hard work.”
Commitment to Excellence
The Leela Palace Bengaluru continues to play a pivotal role in fostering the future of Indian golf. Madhav Sehgal, Area Vice President— India, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, the brand’s dedication to supporting young athletes: “This year, the tournament reached new heights with young golfers who have earned global recognition. The Leela remains committed to inspiring budding talent, providing a platform where camaraderie and competition blend harmoniously to shape the champions of tomorrow.”
Celebrating the Champions
More than just a tournament, the event celebrated excellence and perseverance, recognising the champions across various categories. Winners were rewarded with exclusive stay and dining vouchers at The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. Among the standout performers were Ayaan Jung and Manoj M in the 14-18 age group, Aida Thimmaiah and Prem Muniyappa in the 12-14 category, and Suryaansh Reddy and Dharma in the 9-11 division. Shanshank Sudhakar and Pramati Veera emerged victorious in the 8 and below category, while corporate winners included Ajay Vij, John Abraham, Rachana Bahadur, and Dr. Sanjay Rao. Special awards such as the Kapil Dev Longest Drive were also presented, further elevating the excitement of the event.
With its third edition drawing to a successful close, The Leela Palace Bengaluru’s annual golf tournament has firmly established itself as a premier platform for young golfers in India. The event not only nurtures raw talent but also fosters a culture of discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship, setting the stage for the country’s next generation of golfing stars. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, initiatives like these play a crucial role in shaping the future of Indian golf, one young champion at a time.
