By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Dominique “Apple” Gotiong admitted that her recent ICTSI-Junior Philippine Golf Tour (JPGT) Visayas series campaign at the tough Bacolod Golf and Country Club (BGCC) course was a learning experience for her.

According to the 16-year-old Gotiong, the tough challenge on the Bacolod golf course last week helped her refine her golf skills and adapt to various conditions in competitions.

“I learned a lot from the JPGT event,” Gotiong said.

“The most important thing I learned was being able to play in BGCC. It’s a very nice course, and a good opportunity for me to improve my all-around game,” she said.

“I like golf because I learn about life. For me, it’s more than just a sport. Yes, you get to learn from your parents or from school. But in golf, you learn from yourself,” she added.

Gotiong hopes girls her age can see golf as a journey of personal growth, learning life skills and values.

Her encouragement is rooted in her experiences and the benefits she’s gained from the game.

“I hope girls my age play or practice golf. I hope they would also see that it’s not just a game or sport where you hit balls, but it’s something where you can learn about life,” she shared.

“Work hard and never give up. When you work hard, it pays off. It’s important to just try your best, even if it’s really difficult,” she said.

“Whatever sport you pick — golf, tennis or soccer — just never give up,” she added.

Gotiong will hope to continue her winning ways as she competes in the girls’ 16-18 category of the ICTSI-JPGT Visayas series at the Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club this week./ASC, WDJ