Latest news with #SujjanSingh
Khaleej Times
12 hours ago
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Meet Ananyaa Sood - a rising golf talent chasing dreams with family by her side
At just 14 years old, Ananyaa Sood is already making her mark in golf, a sport she fell in love with at a very young age and now considers her future. Recently, Ananyaa secured a remarkable win at the JAGA International Amateur Open at Al Ain Equestrian Shooting and Golf Club. Among more than 30 talented young golfers, Ananyaa came out on top in the girls' division - a triumph that earned her an invitation to the UAE Clutch Tour later this year. Her golf journey has come a long way in a short period. Ananya plays at The Els Club in Dubai and is coached by Sujjan Singh at the renowned Claude Harmon CH3 academy. She studies online at the United States Performance Academy (USPA), which lets her pursue golf alongside her education, a perfect blend for a young athlete who wants it all. 'It's golf I love… golf means everything to me,' she says with a deep passion that drives her forward and anchors her in the face of pressure and competition. Her greatest supporters are her parents, who have stood by her from the start - not just cheering from the sidelines but guiding and mentoring her. 'My dad (Ahmed) has always been my biggest supporter. I've learned almost everything I know from him. He's always been there, helping me with the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of golf. 'My mom (Shirelee) is also a very, very big supporter of my game. She's somebody that, I know I can really talk to even if I've had a bad day or a good day,' Ananyaa adds. 'She has always helped me figure out the answers to what's going on mentally. Both my parents have been there this entire time, and I'm really grateful for that.' This strong family bond has kept Ananyaa grounded, even in a solitary sport as she aims high. 'My short-term goals are to keep getting better at each aspect of my game… to learn more and improve my weaknesses and my strengths,' she says. 'My long-term goal is to get on the LPGA and be world number one.' Ananyaa is genuinely ambitious, disciplined, and clear about her future - a future filled with golf, growth, and success. Her story underscores the power of patience, perseverance, and strong family support. Ananyaa is a young athlete who plays golf with maturity, discipline, and pure passion, and it's clear the future is bright for this remarkable 14-year-old talent from UAE.
Khaleej Times
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
The Sultans of Swing: Playing with passion and unity for the legacy of Rohan Malhotra
Team Owners (from L to R) Alfred Singh Mejie, Sujjan Singh, Sanjay Pahwa, Amitabh Swarup, and Amol Awasthi The Ultimate Golf Challenge (UGC) is back for Season 2, and the Sultans of Swing are ready to rise to the occasion with renewed energy, diverse talents, and a drive that's fueled by both legacy and passion. As the tournament kicks off on January 30 at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, the team is not just competing for victory- they're playing for something deeply personal. Season 2 of Dubai's popular amateur golf tournament, marks a poignant moment for the Sultans. With heavy hearts, the team dedicates their participation to the memory of Rohan Malhotra, a teammate whose spirit and energy continue to guide them. Rohan's birthday on February 13, just before the season concludes at Emirates Golf Club, will serve as a bittersweet reminder of the lasting impact he had on everyone who knew him. Heartfelt message This year, the Sultans are not only chasing a trophy—they're chasing a legacy. 'Rohan was more than just a teammate. He was the heartbeat of the team, the one who brought us all together,' says co-owner Sanjay Pahwa. Amitabh Swarup, who jointly owns the team with Sanjay, Alfred Singh Mejie, Amol Awasthi ad Sujjan Singh, added: 'Rohan had an incredible ability to unite people, both on and off the course. This season, we aim to play with the joy and passion Rohan brought to every game.' The Sultans' owners, a group bound by their love for golf, bring more than just strategy to the table—they bring a deep commitment to making this team something special. They all share a singular vision: to create a team that's as unpredictable and powerful as the game itself. Mind game 'Golf is a mind game - your thoughts can shape or disrupt your success. It's the ultimate test of focus,' says Sanjay. 'It's not just about hitting the perfect shot- it's about mastering the mind, maintaining focus, and trusting your game. We've built a squad that reflects that philosophy.' This season, the Sultans are focused on balance and diversity within their squad. 'Our goal is to create a team that mirrors the unpredictability of golf—where various strengths unite to form a cohesive whole,' says Amol while Vijay, who took the lead in selecting the players added: 'Each golfer has their own unique swing, and it's refining that individuality that elevates a player to greatness.' Pro golfer and coach Sujjan Singh, who has been pivotal in fostering team chemistry, commented: 'Golf may seem like an individual sport, but teamwork demands trust, synergy, and a shared vision.' Together with mentor Vijay Devnani the Sultans bring their passion for golf and their love for Rohan by playing with passion, joy, and a deep respect for the game and each other. The Sultans' journey reflects UGC's vision for inclusivity and innovation in golf. 'Golf teaches resilience and humility,' says Alfred. 'Through this challenge, we hope to inspire others to embrace the game and its ability to connect people.'
