Team founder Gwill Poole reflects on Brain Dubai's 'exhilarating' experience at the UGC
'Having been involved in golf for some time, I anticipated a certain level of enthusiasm,' he said. However, the sheer energy and commitment displayed by the players, team owners, and organizers exceeded my expectations. It was inspiring to witness such collective passion for the sport.
'Our team left the event feeling invigorated and proud of our performance,' added Gwill. 'The camaraderie among team members and the support from other participants fostered a positive and encouraging atmosphere.
'A particularly memorable moment was when our pairing of Nisha Rodriguez and Yana Jamieson secured 75 points in Round 1, showcasing our team's potential.'As the inaugural season of the Ultimate Golf Challenge (UGC) rolled out at the Dubai Creek and Emirates Golf Club's Faldo and Majlis courses, one new team entered the event with a focus on the science of performance and mental resilience.
Brain Dubai, representing The Brain & Performance Centre, a DP World Company based in Dubai, made their debut in this high-energy amateur tournament, competing alongside nine other franchise-owned teams. But it wasn't just about the tournament for them - it was about strategy, adaptability, and building a mindset that could excel under pressure.
For Gwill Poole, the team's founder, competing in the UGC was an exciting and meaningful experience.
'Participating in the UGC for the first time was both exhilarating and rewarding,' he said. 'The event's unique format and the opportunity to compete alongside nine other dedicated teams made it a memorable experience. The meticulous organization and the enthusiasm of all participants truly stood out.'
Despite his extensive golf experience, Gwill was still impressed by the energy surrounding the event.
'Having been involved in golf for some time, I anticipated a certain level of enthusiasm,' he said. However, the sheer energy and commitment displayed by the players, team owners, and organizers exceeded my expectations. It was inspiring to witness such collective passion for the sport.
'Our team left the event feeling invigorated and proud of our performance,' added Gwill. 'The camaraderie among team members and the support from other participants fostered a positive and encouraging atmosphere.
'A particularly memorable moment was when our pairing of Nisha Rodriguez and Yana Jamieson secured 75 points in Round 1, showcasing our team's potential.'
Competing in the UGC was no easy feat, particularly given the high level of talent displayed by all the teams. The competition was fierce, and Brain Dubai had to carefully navigate the challenges posed by the different formats and skilled players.
As Gwill Poole explained: "The UGC attracts highly skilled golfers, presenting a competitive environment. One of the most exciting yet challenging aspects was strategizing effectively to maximize our Stableford points across different formats, in each round. Balancing individual strengths with team dynamics required thoughtful planning and adaptability.'
While golf was, of course, the focus, Gwill also recognized the value of the social and networking opportunities the event provided. 'The social and networking facets of the UGC were exceptional. Engaging with fellow participants, sharing experiences, and building relationships added depth to the event. It was an excellent platform for fostering connections within the golfing community and beyond.'
When asked about the key takeaway from his experience, Gwill emphasized the crucial role of mental resilience in peak performance. 'From a performance and mindset perspective, the experience reinforced the importance of preparation, adaptability, and teamwork. It also highlighted the value of mental resilience, a core focus at The Brain & Performance Centre, in achieving peak performance under pressure.'
As for the future, Gwill said he and his team are 'absolutely' eager to return to the tournament for the next edition. 'Our inaugural participation has only strengthened our commitment to the UGC. We look forward to returning next season, building upon our experiences, and striving for even greater success.'
BroskyGolf, an apparel partner and eGolf Megastore, the Middle East's largest golf retailer, supplied Brain Dubai with top-tier gear, ensuring they were well-equipped to perform at their best throughout the competition.
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