Young golfers from Oman make history with their recent GCC Under-18 victory

The Omani National Youth Golf Team recently delivered a remarkable performance at the 2025 GCC U18 Boys’ Championship in Jeddah, securing both individual and team honours, further solidifying Oman’s rising presence in the world of golf.

The team’s outstanding achievements mark a significant milestone in the development of the sport in the sultanate and sent a powerful message of dedication and excellence out in the region and beyond.

In a dramatic display of skill, determination, and teamwork, Adam al Barwani earned the silver medal in the Under-18 individual category, showcasing his remarkable talent and resilience on the course. At the same time, the Omani team – comprising Adam, Pransh Jagwani, and Mahir Sampat – clinched the gold medal in the highly competitive team event. This victory is not only a testament to their individual abilities but also to their synergy and collective effort, making history for Omani golf on the regional stage.

Moment of triumph

Mahir Sampat, one of the key members of the victorious team, expressed his joy and pride, sharing the emotional significance of their win.

“It was an incredible feeling of pure joy, relief, and pride all at once. After all the hard work, practice, and pressure, standing there as champions was an unforgettable moment. The satisfaction of achieving a goal, especially in a competitive sport like golf, is something truly special,” he said.

Sampat highlighted the importance of teamwork and chemistry among the three players, crediting their collaborative spirit as a crucial factor in their success.

“The teamwork and chemistry between the three of us during the event was exceptional. From the very first tee shot to the final putt, we operated as a cohesive unit, each playing to our strengths while supporting one another through every challenge,” he said.

Their mutual trust and communication were key to staying focused and resilient throughout the tournament. “What truly made the difference was our trust in each other. We knew when to take risks and when to play it safe, and that confidence in one another helped us stay composed throughout the tournament,” Sampat added.

Jagwani spoke about the strategies that played a pivotal role in their success. “Several key strategies helped us win,” he said, detailing their approach to the game. “From the start, we focused on playing smart and staying consistent, knowing that minimising mistakes was just as important as making great shots.”

Jagwani also highlighted the importance of mental strength, which played a crucial role in their ability to bounce back from challenging moments. “Golf is a game of patience. Even when things didn’t go our way, we stayed calm and focused on the next shot. We kept each other’s spirits high, which helped us bounce back quickly from mistakes,” he said.

Overcoming challenges 

Winning the GCC U18 Boys’ Championship didn’t come without its challenges. The players faced months of rigorous training, personal sacrifices, and mental fortitude to perform at their best. Jagwani reflected on the sacrifices they made to achieve their goal, noting the physical and mental toughness required. “We spent countless hours practicing, fine-tuning our swings, working on our short game, and improving our mental focus. Balancing training with personal responsibilities wasn’t always easy,” he explained.

Additionally, the competition was intense, and the pressure of performing on a regional stage pushed the team to develop resilience. “The level of competition was tough, and winning such accolades speaks volumes about your dedication,” Jagwani added. “This victory wasn’t just about talent, it was the result of months (or even years) of hard work, discipline, and sacrifices.”

One of the most profound aspects of this victory is the impact it will have on young golfers back home in Oman. Both Jagwani and Barwani emphasised the importance of their success in inspiring the next generation of players. “For aspiring young golfers back home, we hope our success sends a clear message: with dedication, discipline, and belief in yourself, anything is possible,” Barwani said. “Golf is a sport that requires patience and perseverance, and we want young players to know that if they put in the effort, they too can compete at higher levels.”

Sampat echoed these sentiments, emphasising the collective responsibility of the team to inspire more young people to take up golf. “Representing our country on the regional stage was an incredible honour and a responsibility we took very seriously. It wasn’t just about competing, it was about showcasing the growth of golf in our nation and proving that we can perform at a high level against tough competition,” he said. “We hope our achievement motivates the next generation to dream big and aim for success on even bigger stages.”

A historic achievement for Oman

Vice Chairman at Oman Golf Association, Faiz Mohammad Riaz celebrated the team’s remarkable achievement, calling it a milestone for both the team and the country. “This victory is not just a medal, it is a statement. It proves that with determination, discipline, and teamwork, we can stand among the best in the world,” he said. “To our young champions, you have shown us what passion and perseverance can achieve. You inspire not just the golfing community but the entire nation.” As Oman continues to gain recognition in international golf circles, the performance of these young athletes sends a strong message that the future of Omani golf is bright. Their hard work, dedication, and camaraderie have made them role models for young athletes across the nation, and this victory will likely inspire even more talented players to take up the sport and strive for excellence on the global stage.

This historic win by Oman’s youth golf team not only adds to the country’s growing sporting legacy but also serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when talent, teamwork, and perseverance come together.