The Fiji International is a special tournament for Australian Professional golfer Jarryd Felton; it’s where he launched his career.
21-year-old Felton from Western Australia arrived in Fiji last year to compete in his first tournament as a Professional.
Making his debut at the Fiji International, a world-class tournament, was a nerve racking experience for the young player but one he will always remember.
“My favourite memory would have to be everything,” said Felton.
“It was my first event as a Pro and it was a Tier One Championship with Matt Kuchar and some other big name players.”
“I played the first two rounds with Michael Sim who is also from Perth and he played on the PGA TOUR, so he was always someone I have admired,” added Felton, who is looking forward to getting back to Fiji this year.
“Seeing how much the people get around the tournament is awesome. They create such a great atmosphere.”
This year, Felton is returning to the Fiji International as a more seasoned Professional and an ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia winner.
“I am forever grateful that the Fiji International gave me the chance to begin my Professional career but all I can say is what a difference a year makes,” added Felton, who won the 2015 New South Wales PGA Championship.
“After securing my card at the end of last year it’s been a great learning experience to continue playing on the PGA Tour of Australasia. Ultimately I have become more comfortable on Tour.”
“Developing my game as a Pro and adapting to the Pro life has been a big adjustment.”
“It’s taken some time but I’ve been able to play some bigger events after Fiji last year. It’s helped me get used to the bigger stage. So this time around I feel I will be more prepared.”
With more experience comes a greater expectation, with Felton wanting to make sure he is in the mix on the weekend after he missed the cut last year.
“The main goal is to win the Fiji International,” added Felton.
“But it’s still early in my career, so I’m going to try and gain as much experience as I can playing with the biggest names in the game.”
A win at the Fiji International would catapult Felton’s career to the next level. It would see him gain full access to the European Tour until the end of 2017.
The Fiji International will be played at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course from 6-9 October.