Porteous thrives in golf and career: ‘The best part is, I get to enjoy both
Garrick Porteous may have stepped away from full-time professional golf, but his competitive fire hasn't dimmed.
The two-time HotelPlanner Tour winner continues to make his mark on the course while balancing a career at ProSports International. His recent victory at The Montgomerie Golf Club proves he's still got it.
Carding a superb six-under 66, Porteous clinched the 16th round of the Emirates PGA, a confidence boost ahead of next month's HotelPlanner (formerly Challenge Tour) events.
Alongside his role as brand manager at ProSports International—the Middle East's leading golf distributor—Porteous remains fully immersed in competitive golf. With the company's backing, he competes in local PGA events while gearing up to defend his Abu Dhabi Challenge title, a tournament he won last year at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club.
'It's great to compete still while having the security of a full-time job,' said Porteous, who hails from Colchester, England. 'Winning an event like this and then heading into the office to congratulates from everyone at ProSports is a great feeling.
Team support
'There's a real buzz of support from the team. It's also the first time in my life I've had a regular paycheck, which gives me a sense of stability. I haven't really thought about it much, but I guess it's helped me play with a little more freedom.'
With the Montgomerie's greens rolling at just over 11.5 on the Stimp Meter and the course in pristine condition, low scores were needed to contend. Porteous delivered, showing the form that saw him win the 2013 Amateur Championship and cruise to a five-shot victory at the 2017 Prague Golf Challenge.
'The Emirates PGA events are really well-run, and Kieran Pratt does a fantastic job organizing them,' Porteous added. 'They fit perfectly into most players' schedules. Getting a scorecard in your hand and competing is a different challenge from just playing a casual round with mates.'
Eye on the future
As he looks ahead to the upcoming HotelPlanner Tour events, Porteous continues to blend his love for golf with his professional career. His background in graphic design and branding has found a natural home at ProSports, where he stays connected to the sport in more ways than one.
'My days look a little different now, but the hunger to compete is still there,' he said. 'The best part is, I get to enjoy both worlds.'
With his game in good shape and confidence high, Porteous is ready to defend his title in Abu Dhabi, determined to make another statement on the HotelPlanner circuit.
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