Don’t be surprised if Gujarat enters the record books for golf. After cricket and chess, golf seems to be the game on chief minister Narendra Modi’s wish list.

COMMERCIAL BREAK
SCROLL TO CONTINUE READING

“Gujaratis don’t have sports in their DNA but certainly they have the ability to bring sportspersons under one umbrella,” said Modi, after the success of European Challenge tour event held at Kensville Golf and Country Club on Sunday. Gaganjeet Bhullar from Kapurthala, Punjab, won the Challenge.

Modi also observed that such events of international level will help in developing the sports culture in the state. “This event will lift golf in Gujarat and the game will scale new heights. It is a new game but we have the potential to do well in future. Golf used to be an elite class sport but it is no longer so. It has attracted the common man, including housewives,” said Modi, who was dressed in attire suited for the event.

The chief minister also felt golf has the potential to benefit society as a whole. “The game will help not only the players but also act as a catalyst in earning foreign exchange. It can help develop golfing tourism,” he added.

At the European Challenge, injury might have kept Jeev Milkha Singh away from the tour but Bhullar shined on occasion with a thrilling one-stroke win. The 22-year-old Kapurthala lad held his nerves to win the cheque of 32,000 euros. “I am very pleased to begin my new season with a victory. Even last year, I began the season with a victory on the Asian Tour but I cherish this moment as this is my first international victory in India. It was my father’s birthday on January 14 and I dedicate this win to him.”