ON THE GREEN

FROM ALMOST GIVING UP ON GOLF TO HIS “RIVALRY” WITH HIS FELLOW GOLFER BROTHER, GAVIN GREEN SPILLS TO FLOREY D MIKIL THE UPS AND DOWNS HE’S HAD DURING HIS 22 YEARS IN GOLF

Carefully lowering himself onto the stool in the middle of the set and adjusting it to accommodate his tall frame, Gavin Green prepares for his next shot. Focused on the task at hand, he doesn’t seem to notice the photographer jokingly admonishing him for dwarfing everyone and making everything in the studio look miniature next to his 6’1” build. When not as immersed, a smile plays on his lips every now and again as he receives instructions on his poses, smoothly going with the flow. The professional golfer may cut an intimidating figure, but strike a conversation with him and you’ll find yourself conversing with a laid-back young man whose hard work, determination, and perseverance got him to where he is today.

Turning 29 this year, Gavin has been inseparable from a golf club since he was seven. It all began when he and his family went to a driving range, where they pleasantly discovered that he was a natural at hitting the dimpled white balls. “I’m not too sure when that was, but I remember when the next Chinese New Year came, I used all my angpow money to buy golf clubs. From then on, it just took off.” Over the years, he’s honed his skills to become a record-setting professional in his chosen sport. However, his success did not come without sacrifices.