UAE-based teen golfer George Pendleton-Nash added another string to his bow after beating a strong field to win the Junior Open at Orange County National in Orlando.
The 13-year-old Brit has been a standout star on the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) circuit this season, finishing second on EGF Order of Merit as well as being crowned Junior Open champion at Tower Links, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, Emirates Golf Club and Jumeirah Golf Estates.
While that record is an achievement in its own right, replicating that form against a plethora of top amateurs in the States is a whole different ball game.
But for Pendleton-Nash, who was playing under the UAE flag, it was no problem as he carded rounds of 75, 71 and 76 to claim an emphatic nine stroke win in the boys 11-13 division on the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour.
The Hurricane Junior Golf Tour is the largest multi-day junior golf tour in the United States, hosting more two-day nationally ranked events than any other tour. It provides junior golfers between the ages of 8-18 an opportunity to play exceptional courses in a competitive environment.
"George Pendleton-Nash's victory at Hurricane Junior Golf Tour’s 54 Hold Junior Open is a testament to his skill and dedication. His success not only highlights his talent but also underscores the global reach and competitive opportunities offered by the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour,” said Joy Xu, Director of International Development, Hurricane Junior Golf Tour.
“We are committed to supporting young talents like George and expanding our presence in the Middle East to foster more opportunities for junior golfers. HJGT is now the world's largest junior golf tour, with a presence in Canada, China, and India. We are actively exploring opportunities with potential partners in each country to expand the tour into additional regions and enrich the experience for junior golfers worldwide. We are open to collaborating with existing tours to maximize opportunities and benefits for young golfers.
“Our points system not only allows juniors to earn recognition but also attracts attention from college coaches and provides other opportunities in the US while competing from their home countries. Additionally, all HJGT members will have the opportunity to come to the US and play high-level events. We look forward to seeing George and other talented junior golfers continue to excel in their careers, and we remain dedicated to promoting junior golf globally through our expanding initiatives.”
The Gems Wellington Academy Silicon Oasis pupil now visits the United Kingdom to compete at a range of North-West Junior Opens before heading back to Dubai.
