Garrick Porteous fired a superb 66 at The Montgomerie Golf Club to clinch victory in the 16th round of the Emirates PGA, a timely boost as he prepares for the upcoming HotelPlanner Tour events.
The two-time HotelPlanner Tour winner has stepped back from full-time professional golf, instead establishing himself in Dubai as a brand manager for ProSports International, the leading golf distributor in the Middle East. However, the company fully supports him teeing it up in local PGA events and the forthcoming HotelPlanner tournaments, where he will defend his Abu Dhabi Challenge title, having won last year at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club.
First Monthly Pay Cheque
“It’s great to still be able to compete while having the security of a full-time job,” said Porteous. “Winning an event like this and then heading into the office to congratulations from everyone at ProSports is a great feeling. There’s a real buzz of support from the team. It’s also the first time in my life I’ve had a regular pay cheque, which gives me a sense of stability. I haven’t really thought about it much, but I guess it has helped me play with a little more freedom.”
Emirates PGA Successful Platform
The Emirates PGA events offer a high standard of competition, benefiting not only Porteous but also the region’s professionals. With the greens at The Montgomerie running at just over 11.5 on the Stimp Meter and the course in immaculate condition, low scoring was essential to secure victory.
Great HotelPlanner Preparation
“Kieran Pratt does a fantastic job organising these events, and they fit perfectly into most players’ schedules,” Porteous added. “It’s ideal preparation for the HotelPlanner events next month. Getting a scorecard in your hands and competing is totally different from just playing a casual round with mates in the afternoon.”
Porteous’ recent success will no doubt give him confidence heading into the HotelPlanner Tour events, where he will aim to build on this momentum.
