The UTRGV men’s Golf team are lucky to travel up and down the nation in the pursuit of Trophies. We compete against some of the world’s best Amateur competition in the highest Division of NCAA Golf. The Team is represented by 8 countries, England, Scotland, Italy, Malaysia, Thailand, Mexico, Japan and USA. This week takes us to Laredo, a much closer event than we are used to, but arguably the most prestigious. The Border Olympics is the oldest remaining Collegiate golf event, with the inaugural competition occurring in 1952. Last year we placed 3rd as a team which saw us climb over 50 spots in the national rankings, this shows the importance of a strong performance in a strong fielded event such as this one. 5 of the 8 nationalities are represented this week. These Ten photographs follow the short journey to, and practice round portions of the week.
Adam Arif (Malaysia) and Luca Portelli (Italy) Loading the UTRGV golf van with all the equipment. This is Adam’s first trip with the team. There was a lot of nervous energy as he comes to terms with the expectations and responsibility he is about to take on. Deep in thought. Henry Fisher (USA) studies the golf course using Google Earth. Time is always a factor for a travelling team, and preparation is the key to success, there is no use in wasting that which is precious. Luca Portelli (Italy) ponders the menu. Being form Milan Italy, Luca has experienced some of the greatest cuisines available, it is always interesting to see him deliberate the choices at restaurants we eat at, seeking the closest thing to dining luxury possible given the deep set limitations we are presented with. Henry Fisher (USA) warms up for the practice round following the 3 hour bus journey. Notice we carry our National Flags on our bags, it reminds us of where we have come from to get here, how diverse we are, how a brotherhood can be formed by individuals from all 4 corners of the world. I like to call this one “War of Independence.” Interpret that as you see fit.Tae Itthiratchai (Thailand) and Adam (Malaysia) tee of on Hole number 1 of the Max golf course Laredo. Our team is represented by 3 Asian nations and 4 Asian players. They stick together and help each other through times of trouble. It is interesting that they still use English as their communication medium. The stunning brick clubhouse provides a strong backdrop to this image that goes deeper than just 2 golfers.Luca Portelli (Italy) “The Milano Poser.” He holds his finish with precision equal to his preparation for the shot, the round and the tournament. The 200 foot radio tower in the background seems almost more like a streak across the photograph, structures of that height and width are astonishing. Luca stands at a slight 6’4 and we often draw comparisons. Head Men’s Golf Coach Philip Tate (English Passport dual citizen of the USA) in deep discussion with Luca Portelli (Italy.) Although there is over a foot of height difference between these two, the angle is flattering to one of these people, can you guess which one? We don’t have these back in England. Luca (Italy) and Tae (Thailand) winding down after a long day of travel and practice. Weary people, Sun faded vehicles and cacti, a desert dream. Back on the road. Luca (Italy) and Coach (USA) collaborating to find the Hotel. The roads seem to stretch forever here in an endless straight path leading to very little. We like to turn sideways in hopes for a more interesting spectacle. Bed time. Luca (Italy) is a strategic and meticulous sleeper, tracking every minute and monitoring recovery. We were set to leave at 5 am the next morning so Luca knew he needed to be asleep by 7 pm. The end of a long day’s travel and practice. Preparations complete make for a sound sound sleep.
Alex Summers 