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Martim Pinto Johansen Shines at GreatGolf Junior Open

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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.

Matt Oshrine triumphs at the 2024 Open de Portugal

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The 62nd edition of the Open de Portugal culminated in a nail-biting finish. Matt Oshrine emerged victorious with a final score of 273 strokes (-11) at Royal Obidos Spa & Golf Resort. His consistent play over the four rounds secured him the prestigious title, fending off tough competition from Italian Stefano Mazzoli, who finished in second place with 274 (-10). Oshrine’s stellar performance at Royal Obidos, a course designed by the legendary Seve Ballesteros, adds his name to the illustrious history of the Open.

Portuguese Tomas Gouveia scored 277 strokes (-7) and finished tenth place. Gouveia was the best local player of the 15 who participated in the Open de Portugal.

Open de Portugal strategic layout

As part of the Challenge Tour calendar, this year’s tournament showcased the demanding nature of Royal Obidos, which has hosted the event since 2020. Known for its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and its strategic layout, the course tested players’ skills and resilience. Oshrine’s win solidifies his place among the elite golfers of Europe, and his victory will inspire future competitors.

For those who dream of playing on the same world-class golf courses where champions are crowned, Tee Times Golf Agency offers exceptional packages. These packages allow golfers to experience the thrill of playing at Royal Obidos and other iconic venues that have hosted the Open de Portugal. As Portugal continues to be recognised as the best golf destination in the world, it is the perfect location for unforgettable golf holidays. Tee Times provides tailored experiences for all levels of golfers, ensuring that every holiday is filled with incredible golf and luxury.

A new Open de Portugal has passed, and we would like to take the opportunity to congratulate the new champion, Federacao Portuguesa de Golfe, the host club, the organisers, and the sponsors. We take the opportunity to congratulate the new champion, the Federação Portuguesa de Golfe, the host club, the competition organisers and the sponsors. And we also invite you to discover the beauty and challenge of Portugal’s top courses with Tee Times and create lasting memories at the best golf destination in the world.

Photo by: Rodrigo Gatinho (Federação Portuguesa de Golfe).