Encouraging the next generation: Schniederjans and TK host Macau golf clinic

Ollie Schniederjans, a recent champion on The International Series, and Thai sensation Ratchanon ‘TK’ Chantananuwat held a junior golf clinic on the sidelines of International Series Macau presented by Wynn to encourage the next generation of golfers in Macau.

A host of children from Pui Ching Middle School in Macau and Premier School Affiliated to Hong Kong Middle School turned up for a lesson on putting and chipping at Macau Golf and Country Club. The American was keen to share some tips following victory in the first event of the season at International Series India presented by DLF in January.

Schniederjans, pulled out of the second elevated event of 10 at the last minute with injury, but still wanted to give his time to the next generation of golfers in Macau and promote the game in the region.

He said: “It’s cool to see all the kids from here – very different and interesting and yes, they’re all nice kids. I just wanted to give back. I was a junior golfer, and it would have meant a lot to me. I’m not doing anything besides resting, so I thought I could come out and do something positive.

“I didn’t really play with a pro until I was about 14, when I was getting serious about golf. I played with Jason Bohn in a US Open qualifier – that was kind of my first experience playing with an elite professional golfer. I would have really appreciated something like this when I was in middle school.

“A lot of these kids have definitely never played golf before, but maybe after you show them how to set up a club and they hit one or two good shots, they might want to keep trying it out. Golf is very addictive – it can make a big difference going from having no idea what you’re doing to at least having a starting point.”

TK, the Stanford University student gave the youngsters some tips on their short game and was happy to give back to the local community.

TK said: “That was cool, I remember when I was that age and having an experience like that can make a real difference to these youngsters.”

Rahul Singh, Head of The International Series, said: “It is fantastic to see Ollie and TK giving back to the next generation through The International Series’ junior golf clinics. Inspiring young golfers is a key part of what we aim to do, and it’s especially meaningful to reach these students in Macau, where opportunities like this can make a real difference and grow the game. Seeing a professional like Ollie take the time to engage with the kids and share his knowledge is exactly what The International Series is all about.”