George Pendleton-Nash will play the World Junior Golf Championship
UAE-based golfer George Pendleton-Nash is setting his sights on global glory as he prepares to compete in the prestigious World Junior Golf Championship from February 17-21.
The 14-year-old, a student at GEMS Wellington Academy Silicon Oasis, has already proven his ability to shine on the international stage.
Last year, he claimed a standout victory at the Junior Open at Orange County National in Orlando, part of the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour – the largest multi-day junior golf circuit in the United States.
The win highlighted Pendleton-Nash’s capacity to excel beyond the UAE, where he’s a rising star.
His talent was further showcased during a stellar summer, where he was crowned Lancashire Boys Under 16 Champion and Formby Golf Club Robin Porter Champion.
Next on his agenda is the World Junior Golf Championship, where he will compete in the 14-15 age category’s 54-hole stroke play event over three days at the spectacular Villa Padierna Resort in Marbella, Spain.
The championship attracts elite junior players from across Europe and beyond, offering Pendleton-Nash another chance to prove himself on the global stage.
The teenager, who will play under the UAE flag, will face the demanding Alferini Course, known for its natural beauty and challenging design.
Described as “pure golf indulgence,” the course played host to the Ladies European Tour’s Spanish Open in 2022 and promises a true test for competitors.
“Competing in the World Junior Golf Championship in Spain is an incredible opportunity, and I’m eager to challenge myself against some of the best young golfers in the world,” said Pendleton-Nash, who is sponsored by Activitee, a UAE-based school sports and facility management provider
“I’ve been training hard in preparation, and I’m truly grateful for the support of everyone who has helped me pursue my goals.”
Remarkably, Pendleton-Nash has overcome significant adversity to get here. In August, he fractured his ankle playing football, sidelining him from golf for nearly two months.
However, he made an impressive return with a victory at the UAE Cup in October, proving his determination and resilience to get back to the winner’s circle as quickly as possible.
He continues to train under Nathan Kernaghan, a teaching professional at the Claude Harmon III Performance Centre, who believes this tournament could mark the start of an exceptional season.
“George continues to make impressive strides in his development, and his tournament results reflect this progress,” Kernaghan said.
“Competing in next week's World Junior Golf Championship in Spain will be another milestone, adding valuable international experience to his game.
“His success in the US last year, where he secured victory on the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour, demonstrated his ability to perform on a global stage. This time, he will be aiming for a similar outcome.
“Over the past year, he has significantly increased his swing speed, which could become a formidable asset as he continues to refine his game. If he builds on this momentum, this tournament could serve as the perfect springboard for an outstanding season ahead.”
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