Grooming a New Generation of Female Golfers – The Hero Women’s Indian Open
Now in its 17th year, the Hero Women’s Indian Open stands as the flagship event of the Women’s Golf Association of India (WGAI) — a tournament that not only showcases elite competition but also nurtures the future of women’s golf in India.
Since 2018, the WGAI has added a special dimension to the tournament: the Camp of Excellence, designed to groom and inspire junior girl golfers. Supported by the R&A and the Ladies European Tour (LET), this initiative has already impacted over 200 young players from across India. Many of these talented girls have since emerged as leading national players, paving their way toward professional golf careers.
The Camp of Excellence provides selected juniors with an immersive experience at the tournament venue. The participants — flown in from clubs across India — receive professional coaching, mentorship, and exposure to top-level women’s golf. Board and lodging are provided, allowing the girls to focus entirely on learning and development. The sessions include clinics and talks led by LET professionals, alongside motivational and confidence-building workshops organized by WGAI.
In past editions, international golf icons such as Mickey Walker, renowned English professional golfer, and Mike Round, Director of the Ladies European Tour, have shared their insights and inspired young Indian golfers. Their presence has left a lasting impact on the next generation, instilling the discipline, focus, and mental strength required to excel on the global stage.
What makes the initiative particularly special is its inclusivity — bringing together players from different states, cities, and small towns. This diversity has enriched India’s golfing landscape, creating a strong community of young girls who represent the confidence and ambition of India’s Gen Z. These aspiring golfers are not only embracing the sport but also redefining what it means to pursue golf as a professional career in India.
The broader ecosystem for women’s golf is also evolving rapidly. With the introduction of the Indian Golf Premier League, new opportunities are being created for players to sustain their sporting careers while gaining valuable international exposure. Such developments highlight how golf in India is moving beyond being a niche sport to becoming a career pathway for talented young women.
Looking ahead, it is vital that every major golf event in India continues to include junior outreach programs like the Camp of Excellence. By encouraging youth participation, mentorship, and visibility, these initiatives ensure a sustainable future for women’s golf in India.
The 2025 edition of the Hero Women’s Indian Open once again welcomes junior girls for the Camp of Excellence, scheduled from Friday through Sunday, promising another memorable and transformative experience. These camps not only teach golf but also help shape strong, confident individuals ready to take their place on international fairways.
Champika N. Sayal
October 2025
