Four-day coaching programme draws children, youth and senior citizens, raising hopes for the sport’s growth in western Meghalaya

Tura, July 12: A four-day “Learn to Golf” camp in Tura concluded on Sunday, giving a fresh push to golf in Meghalaya’s Garo Hills as aspiring players—from a seven-year-old child to senior citizens—braved inclement weather to learn a sport that has long remained on the fringes of the region.

Organised by the Tura Golfers Association (TGA) at the Durama Golf Course inside the BSF’s 200 Battalion campus at Danakgre, the camp culminated with a skills competition where participants showcased the techniques they had picked up during four days of intensive coaching.

About 20 participants took part in the programme, which introduced beginners to the fundamentals of golf and highlighted the growing interest in the sport in western Meghalaya.

National golfer and NGAI-certified coach Johnwell G. Momin, who conducted the sessions, said the enthusiasm and talent displayed by the trainees had exceeded expectations.

“They have picked up the basics remarkably well in just four days. With regular coaching and practice, many of them have the potential to compete at the state and even national level,” Momin said.

He added that golf is gradually becoming more affordable, with equipment now readily available through outlets such as Decathlon and other budget-friendly brands, making it easier for newcomers to take up the game.

The closing ceremony was attended by BSF 200 Battalion Commandant Vinod Yadav, TGA president Billykid A. Sangma, association secretary Dr Debajit Rudra Sangma, parents and other guests, during which certificates were distributed to all participants.

Billykid Sangma said the enthusiastic response demonstrated the untapped golfing potential in Garo Hills.

“These four days have shown that there is tremendous talent and interest in golf among our youth. We hope this is only the beginning and that some of these budding golfers will one day bring laurels to Meghalaya and the region,” he said, while thanking the BSF for making its golf facility available for the camp.

The programme also inspired participants to dream bigger. Damuda D. Sangma said she now hopes to continue practising and compete outside the state. “Tiger Woods has always been my favourite golfer, and this camp has motivated me to pursue the sport seriously,” she said.

Another participant, Kruzie R. Marak, said the camp gave first-time learners an opportunity to understand and experience golf firsthand.

Parents also welcomed the initiative, saying it had exposed children to a sport often perceived as exclusive and expensive.

With the BSF’s Durama Golf Course currently the only golf driving range in the region, organisers believe the success of the camp could mark the beginning of a stronger golfing culture in Garo Hills and inspire more youngsters to take up the game.

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