Robert Rock Junior Masters in UAE Triumphs in First International Win

Reshan Algama

Sri Lanka’s young golfing stars, Reshan Algama and Kaya Daluwatta, made their mark on this grand stage, demonstrating exceptional skill in the Boys and Girls Under-21 segments, respectively, at the Robert Rock Junior Masters. The tournament was held at the prestigious Al Hamra Golf Club in the UAE, one of the premier junior tournaments in the region, attracting top young golfers from around the world. Reshan won the Boys event, while Kaya finished 3rd overall in the Girls event.

For 17-year-old Reshan, this tournament marked a significant milestone—winning his first-ever international title. Representing the Royal Colombo Golf Club, he showed remarkable perseverance and skill across three challenging rounds. Starting the tournament in 6th place after carding a 2-over-par in the first round, he gradually climbed the leaderboard with two excellent rounds to finish with a total gross score of 218.

In a dramatic final day, Reshan made a clutch birdie putt to force a three-way playoff against Adrian Larson from Els Golf Club, UAE, and Suan Yang from Namseoul CC, South Korea. Showing nerves of steel, he secured victory with a birdie on the 18th hole, executing a precise chip and putt, while his competitors settled for par.

Meanwhile, 16-year-old Kaya continued to prove her consistency on the international stage. Despite beginning in 5th place after Day 1, Kaya steadily climbed the leaderboard, finishing in the top three. The Girls Under-21 category was fiercely contested, with India’s Ananyaa Sood taking the title. Nevertheless, Kaya’s solid performance reaffirmed her status as Sri Lanka’s leading female junior golfer.

Both Reshan’s and Kaya’s outstanding performances at the Robert Rock Junior Masters show the depth of young golfing talent emerging from Sri Lanka. Reshan was coached by Jehan De Saram, received course management guidance from veteran professional Anura Rohana, and benefited greatly from the support of his mental coach, Helitha, who has played an instrumental role in his development.