Martim Pinto Johansen Shines at GreatGolf Junior Open

Portugal’s rising golf star, Martim Pinto Johansen, has started 2024 in style! The 14-year-old national champion claimed victory at the first-ever GreatGolf Junior Open by Fundação Luís Figo, held at Millennium Golf Course in Vilamoura. His excellent performance earned him the title and an exclusive invitation to compete at the Orlando International Amateur Junior in the United States.

With a two-round total of 138 strokes (-6), Martim was the only player to finish under par, showcasing his dominance with rounds of 71 and 67. Playing on his home turf as a Clube de Golfe de Vilamoura member, he secured the win by an impressive 13-stroke margin over Rodrigo Marques Santos.

This isn’t Martim’s first taste of international success. In 2023, he won the Amundi Evian Juniors Cup in France and finished runner-up at the Amendoeira World Kids Golf. Now, he’s heading to the United States for the first time—a dream come true. “I’ve always wanted to go to the US, but not just to visit—I wanted to play there and enjoy the experience,” said an excited Martim.

The tournament featured 41 young talents from 14 different national backgrounds, with exciting performances across multiple categories. Ethan Prybys Orton (Vila Sol) took the U-14 title, shooting +11 over two rounds. At the same time, Ricardo Castro Ferreira (Clube de Golf do Estoril) dominated the U-12 division, proving once again why he’s considered nearly unbeatable in Portugal.

Among the girls, Amélia Gabin was the standout player, finishing an impressive 5th overall and outperforming some of the top-ranked juniors in Portugal.

Beyond the competition, the tournament had a charitable impact, donating a percentage of sponsorship and entry fees to the Fundação Luís Figo, supporting young athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Tee Times Golf Agency was proud to be a tournament partner with the Federacao Portuguesa de Golf, Vilamoura Golf, Millenium Vilamoura, Titleist, Cosmos Sports Travel, Orlando Juniors, Norgolf, and Weasy. Other major players supporting the event as sponsors include Almas, Caetano Baviera, Cigala, PG Hotels & Resorts, RentAcceso, and Wyndham Residences Alvor Beach.

With an unforgettable start to the year, Martim and the other junior stars have set the tone for an exciting season ahead. Congratulations to all the GreatGolf Junior Open players!

More information: https://greatgolf.weasy.io/

Photos by: Daryl Gabin.

Millennium Golf Course Set to Host the GreatGolf Junior Open

Located in the heart of Vilamoura, the Millennium Golf Course stands as one of Portugal’s premier golfing destinations for unforgettable holidays.The Millennium Golf Course is gearing up to welcome the future golf stars at the GreatGolf 2025 Junior Open on March 2nd and 3rd. Organised by the Luís Figo Foundation, this prestigious tournament will bring together talented young golfers competing in the Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18 categories, giving them a platform to showcase their skills. Tee Times Golf Agency is one of the tournament sponsors, supporting and promoting youth golf in Portugal.

Located in the heart of Vilamoura, the Millennium Golf Course stands as one of Portugal’s premier golfing destinations. Known for its lush fairways, tree-lined holes, and immaculately maintained greens, Millennium offers a well-balanced blend of playability and challenge. Designed for golfers of all levels, the course features a mix of open landscapes and strategically demanding sections, ensuring a dynamic and rewarding playing experience.

The Millennium/Laguna Clubhouse serves as the perfect meeting point for golfers, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere from early morning to late afternoon. Its diverse menu caters to all tastes, allowing players to enjoy an energising meal before their round or unwind with a delicious selection of dishes. The clubhouse also features two Pro Shops, fully stocked with essential golf equipment and exclusive Millennium and Laguna merchandise.

Millennium Golf Course: a world-class destination

Managed by Details, Vilamoura Golf is widely recognised as a world-class destination, boasting a collection of outstanding courses, including the Old CoursePinhal, Laguna, and Millennium, each offering unique challenges and scenic beauty. Whether you are looking for a technical round or a more relaxed game, Vilamoura provides endless opportunities to refine your skills while taking in the breathtaking surroundings.

For those eager to discover this memorable golf getaway, Tee Times Golf Agency offers the best packages to experience Vilamoura’s exceptional golf scene. With over 30 years of expertise in golf travel, Tee Times ensures an unforgettable experience by providing access to top-tier golf courses, premium accommodations, and unmatched service.

As the Millennium Golf Course prepares to welcome the next generation of golf champions, now is the perfect time to discover everything this remarkable course—and Vilamoura—have to offer.

Golf in Portugal: Tailored Routes for Every Golfer

Whether you're a beginner or an expert searching for championship challenges, you must try to play golf in Portugal and discover unique experiences.Portugal has long been a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, offering world-class courses, stunning landscapes, and weather perfect for year-round play. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert searching for championship challenges, you must try to play golf in Portugal and discover unique experiences.

Routes for Every Skill Level

Beginners will find welcoming courses with wide fairways and forgiving greens ideal for building confidence. Destinations such as the Pine Cliffs Golf Course in the Algarve or Oitavos Dunes near Lisbon offer stunning scenery and high-quality instruction to help players develop their game.

For intermediate players, courses with a blend of strategy and scenic beauty await. The Old Course Vilamoura provides a balanced challenge, while Penha Longa in Sintra offers a historic setting with technical variety. These courses test accuracy while still allowing for an enjoyable round.

Experienced and professional players will relish the challenge of Portugal’s most demanding layouts. Monte Rei Golf & Country Club in the eastern Algarve is a Jack Nicklaus masterpiece that rewards precision and strategic play. Meanwhile, Troia Golf, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is considered one of the most challenging courses in Europe, making it a must-play for low-handicap golfers.

Luxury vs. Affordable Golf Trips

Golf in Portugal caters to all budgets, from ultra-luxurious stays to more affordable yet high-quality experiences.

For those seeking luxury golf travel, resorts like Quinta do Lago and Onyria Palmares Beach & Golf Resort offer five-star accommodations, spa facilities, and Michelin-starred dining. These destinations provide exclusive experiences that combine championship golf with ultimate relaxation.

On the other hand, Portugal also provides budget-friendly options without compromising quality. Public courses like Amarante Golf Course and Belas Clube de Campo near Lisbon offer affordable green fees while still delivering an exceptional golfing experience.

Golf in Portugal With the Experts

With over 30 years of experience, Tee Times Golf Agency is the leading golf travel specialist in Portugal, offering the best green fees, customised packages, and exclusive deals for an unforgettable Portugal Golf Holiday. Whether you’re planning a luxury getaway or a budget-friendly golf escape, their expertise ensures a seamless experience, providing access to the finest courses and accommodations across the country.

From the Algarve’s renowned fairways to Lisbon’s hidden gems, Tee Times helps golfers of all levels design the perfect itinerary, making golf in Portugal the ultimate destination.