UAE star golfer Jamie Camero arrived in America last month, leaving behind the nation that helped launched her into the global golfing spotlight as she continues to pursue her dream. Will Kent caught up with the 18-year-old talent just before she set off, diving into this exciting new chapter of her life.
Competing in any sport at an international level is as rare as finding a diamond in the rough – though in my case, it’s usually just another lost golf ball. In fact, only around 0.003 percent of the world’s population ever reach that elite global level. Yet, at just 18 years old, Jamie’s already achieved this and is now taking the next step in her rapidly growing golf career.
The teenager is the latest local talent to pursue a future through the American college system, a pathway that’s becoming increasingly common and accessible for players in the Middle East. Its potential for success was demonstrated recently by Rayhan Thomas’ impressive victory in India just months after turning professional. Like Rayhan, Jamie was also born in Dubai.
She made the move to the University of Central Florida (UCF) on a four-year golf scholarship last month and isn’t expected back in the United Arab Emirates until December for a short break. With 12,500 kilometres between Dubai and Florida and an eight-hour time difference, the adjustment is a significant lifestyle change, especially for an 18-year-old.
“I’ve been waiting to do this for a while now,” said Jamie ahead of her move. “I’m more than just excited, I’m also a bit sad to leave my friends and family, but it’s something I’ve been working for. I think I’m more than ready.
“The idea to head to America came when I saw other golfers here in the UAE commit, and I was bit younger then, probably around 12 to 13 years old. I committed to UCF at the beginning of 2022.
“Other than it being a great place for golf with great facilities, I really like the work motive of my coach, Emily Marron, and how she brings about practice and competing. I know it’s going to be a tough test out there but I think she’s the right person to push me.
“Adjusting to that higher level of competition week in and out will be a lot different, and that’s what I’m looking forward to the most as well as travelling around America playing different courses. That will be great.”
International Golf
Jet setting, though, is something she’s used to having played in numerous countries as well as representing the UAE in recent times. From Canada to Thailand, and more recently to the Czech Republic for the Ladies European Tour, she stands out as one of the most experienced 18-year-old golfers I’ve met. These opportunities have been earned, while she’s also been supported by the Emirates Golf Federation.
“It’s been a dream come true to represent the country,” she added. “It’s always been something I’d think about, competing in all of these high level events and even pro events. To make it there is another thing, and I feel like it’s something that’s a result of my hard work.
“It’s just been amazing. I’ve had plenty of opportunities to play golf at many places to differing standards, and I think it’s grown me a lot, not just as a player but also as a person.”
I first remember watching Jamie at the Espirito Santo Trophy in October at Abu Dhabi, and was impressed by her temperament. Calm, composed, and unruffled, she fired a 71 in round three – the UAE’s best score of the week.
The chance to compete alongside some of the world’s top amateurs back then offered invaluable experience. More recently, she had the opportunity to get up close with the best again on the Ladies European Tour in the Czech Republic which will have no doubt offered even greater insights into what it takes to become an established professional.
“Their attention to detail with every single shot is what I noticed the most,” she added. “They work hard for every shot, and it means so much more to them than to the regular amateur. I saw that playing in the LET where a lot of the ladies kept their composure well, but every shot was emotional for them. They really do whatever it takes the play the perfect shot.”
More UAE Representation
Her departure leaves behind a legacy as one of the brightest young stars in the country, a shining light for the female, junior, and amateur game. While her journey takes her across the world, her impact on UAE golf will be felt long after she’s teed off in Florida. Fortunately, she still has ambitions to represent the UAE when possible.
“I’m planning to complete my four years in America, work hard from there, and just continue to represent the UAE and make some bigger events,” she added. “I’ve been able to compete in high level events, but to win one is what I’m also working towards in the near future.
“It doesn’t get much better than the UAE. The facilities despite being a small place are great, but nevertheless still growing rapidly. There are new upcoming facilities both day in, day out.
“Junior golf has changed the most in my opinion, the standard is growing a lot, but even the opportunities for juniors and the junior development programmes has been taken to the next level from when I started. I think that’s been the biggest growth in the game that I’ve observed in the UAE, and I can’t wait to see what this country looks like in a few years.”
It’s clear that Jamie’s story is just getting started. With a strong foundation of hard work, dedication, and support from the Emirates Golf Federation, she’s already achieved what many can only dream of. From representing the country on international stages to tackling the challenges of college golf in America, her future looks incredibly promising.
We wish her nothing but success – and here’s hoping she’s back on the cover of this magazine in the not-so-distant future. Only next time, fingers crossed she’ll be swapping out that golf club for a well-deserved trophy. Play well, Jamie.
