Written by- AKSH GUPTA

 

 

At an age when most children are still discovering the world around them, Sakshity Purendre discovered golf. At just 2.5 years old, he picked up his first club—and hasn’t let go since.

 

Today, at 13 years old, Sakshity is not just another junior golfer. He is one of the youngest Indians to have qualified for the Final Stage of the Tata Steel PGTI Qualifying School 2025—a feat that many seasoned amateurs and aspiring professionals struggle to achieve.

 

A Journey Rooted in Passion and Perseverance

 

Raised in a modest household in Malviya Nagar, New Delhi, Sakshity’s golf journey began at Qutab Golf Course, where he has trained for nearly 10 years. His father, who runs a small cloud kitchen business from home, has been his strongest supporter—nurturing a dream with limited means, but unlimited faith.

 

Despite financial challenges, Sakshity stayed committed to the game, training with determination and participating in several tournaments under the Indian Golf Union (IGU) banner. His growth as a golfer has come not just from talent, but from years of consistent hard work on the practice greens of Delhi.

 

Making Headlines at the PGTI Qualifying School

 

 

In January 2025, Sakshity took a bold step—competing in the Tata Steel PGTI Qualifying School at the Golmuri Golf Course, Jamshedpur. In the First Stage (Pre-Qualifying I), he played like a seasoned competitor, posting steady rounds of 71, 71, and 71, earning him a clear spot in the Final Stage.

 

At the Final Stage, against a field of elite amateurs and professionals, Sakshity held his ground with rounds of 74, 71, 71, and 74, finishing with a respectable total of 290 (+6) and tied-73rd—an exceptional result for someone his age, still classified as an amateur.

 

This performance, at just 13 years old, places Sakshity in a rare league—a junior playing at the highest level of Indian professional golf qualifying.

 

Backed by Belief: The Role of The Golf Foundation

 

A major force behind Sakshity Purendre’s journey has been The Golf Foundation and the visionary guidance of Sir Amit Luthra.

Over the past two years, the Foundation has provided Sakshity with crucial support—ranging from financial backing and top-tier equipment to tournament expenses and invaluable mentorship. Their belief in his potential has played a pivotal role in shaping his path forward.

 

Not Just a Golfer, But a Story of Grit

 

Sakshity is currently a student of Class VIII at Govt. Boys Sr. Sec. School, balancing academics with the demands of competitive sport. Fluent in Hindi, English, and Marathi, he remains grounded and focused. His singular goal is to one day become a professional golfer and represent India.

 

His family earns modestly, but their commitment to his dream is unwavering. His story is a quiet, powerful reminder that talent needs opportunity—and belief. 

 

The Road Ahead

 

With his performance at the PGTI Q-School, Sakshity has already proven that age is no barrier to competing at the highest level. His next steps will involve gaining more tournament experience, continuing his education, and building toward a professional career in golf.

 

For now, India can be proud of a young golfer who has taken the first giant steps—not just on the course, but in life.