Following the resounding success of the first two editions, The Leela Palace Bengaluru hosted its third shotgun tournament at the Karnataka Golf Association on Saturday, 8th March.
This year, the tournament was held in collaboration with the Junior Golf Development Programme and the Karnataka Golf Association.
Exceptional Talent on Display
The tournament was a mix of rising stars and young talent, aged between 8 and 18, showcasing the full spectrum of golfing prowess. The tournament has always been centered around children, with the primary aim of inspiring the younger generation and fostering the development of their careers.
This year, the tournament saw participation from over 40 children, 70% of whom were playing for the second time. They were supported by 80 adults, comprising corporate professionals and key personalities from various industries, who joined in championing the cause.
Rising Golf Stars in India
The emerging golf talent in India continues to display exceptional promise. Recent achievements of players who participated in the tournament include victories in prestigious events such as the U.S. Kids Indian Championship, U.S. Kids World Juniors, and U.S. Kids Singapore and Malaysian Championships, alongside top finishes at the IGU South Zone and Epic WRX All India Tour.
Inaugural Shotgun Tee-Off by Kapil Dev
The tournament was inaugurated with a shotgun tee-off by none other than the President of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), the legendary all-rounder, Kapil Dev.
On the occasion, Kapil Dev said, “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 Young Golfers
Madhav Sehgal, Area Vice President – South India, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, added, “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.”
Exclusive Rewards for Winners
Beyond the honour of triumph, winners were awarded exclusive stay and dining vouchers across The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts.
Tournament Winners
Kapil Dev Longest Drive: Rachana Bahadur
Straightest Drive: Ganesh Basavaraj, Managing Director, Machaan Resorts
Closest to the Pin (Par 3): Ajay Kanwal
Handicap 0-18
- Winner: Ajay Vij, Senior Country Managing Director, Accenture
- Runner-up: John Abraham
Handicap 19-24
- Winner: Rachna Bahadur, SVP, Country Head – India, Synchrony
- Runner-up: Dr Sanjay Rao
Kids Winners and Runners-up:
14-18 years
- Winner: Ayaan Jung
- Runner-up: Manoj M
12-14 years
- Winner: Aida Thimmaiah
- Runner-up: Prem Muniyappa
9-11 years
- Winner: Suryaansh Reddy
- Runner-up: Dharma
8 and below
- Winner: Shanshank Sudhakar
- Runner-up: Pramati Veera
