Golf and growth: Gotiong’s path to success

MANILA, Philippines – At just 16 years old, Dominique “Apple” Gotiong had already discovered a profound passion for golf. But this zeal was not just about the sport itself, but the life lessons she gleaned from it. Her recent participation in the ICTSI Junior PGT Visayas Series, which she dominated at the Bacolod Golf and Country Club, proved to be a pivotal experience, offering invaluable insights and opportunities for growth.

Gotiong realized the significance of precision, especially in short game and putting. She learned that accuracy in her shots could make a substantial difference in her performance. This realization pushed her to focus more on this aspect of her game, understanding that mastery of these finer details was crucial for her overall improvement.

“I learned a lot from the JPGT event,” said Gotiong, reflecting on her successful debut in the circuit put up by ICTSI to develop the sport and provide a venue for the country’s youngsters to hone their talent and skills.

Playing on a challenging course like the BGCC was a highlight for Gotiong. But it wasn’t just about competing but also about the learning experience. The course itself became a teacher, helping her refine her skills and adapt to different playing conditions. Each game was a step toward becoming a more well-rounded golfer.

“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,” added the rising Cebuana star, who overpowered the girls’ 16-18 field by 18 strokes.

But for her, golf transcended being merely a game. It became a mirror reflecting life’s broader lessons. She appreciated the way golf taught her about patience, resilience and self-reflection. Unlike lessons learned from parents or school, the lessons from golf were deeply personal, coming from within and from the experiences on the course.

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

Gotiong had a heartfelt message for girls her age. She hoped they would see golf not just as a sport but as a