PGA tour star Dimi Papadatos is letting some of his old clubs do some more talking after making a surprise donation to a group of lucky Central Coast juniors.
Currently sitting in fourth place on the Australasian Order of Merit, Papadatos gifted a personally gamed wedge to 26 Central Coast junior participants at the recent Jack Newton Junior Golf (JNJG) Peter O’Malley Junior Masters at Bathurst Golf Club.
It was a gesture the Central Coast’s Junior Development Officer Mick Lamaro said was typical of Papadatos’ commitment to his junior roots.
“It was extremely kind. That’s our thoughtful Dimi, and he is forever giving back to the grassroots.
“It was a special moment witnessing each one get a club.
“Some of the kids wouldn’t let go of them, the reactions were priceless; tears, excitement and disbelief,” Lamaro said.
Papadatos, who is enjoying one of his best summers on tour for several years, picked up his second Victorian Open Crown in February. It was a win that also locked away a spot in this year’s Open Championship at St Andrews in Scotland for the Central Coast-based professional.
“There will be 26 Juniors sitting on the couch with their Vokey wedges cheering you on all the way as you compete in the 150th Open at St Andrews this July, and 26 potential caddies on standby for you,”
Lamaro grinned.
Papadatos even found time to keep his eye on some of the golf over the weekend, and was even part of a special presentation night back at Toukley Golf Club.
“I’m so proud of the young ones and happy to lend a hand at all times when I’m here back home on The Coast,
“I see how much these talented kids practice, love their commitment, but I’m more impressed with how a couple of the kids handled and bounced back from some unfortunate luck and rulings across the weekend,” Dimi said with a big smile.
For the record, Magenta Shores Riley Millers took out the overall event with a marvellous five-under par total after rounds of 71 & 66. Kooindah Waters & The Vintages Harry Preece chased down Toukley’s young gun Blake Cranston to win the Under 11’s Scratch.
Wyong’s Girls Club Champion Kiara Connolly-Jackson took out the Under 13’s Division. With Shelly Beach’s duo of Archie Morris and Desiree Herden taking out their division titles in the nett.
Lamaro said the weekend was an outstanding success.
“All the titles and trophies collected in the winners’ circle were a bonus to complement the fun” ” Lamaro added. ” It was a successful weekend for all.”
