BULACAN — The recently concluded Big Leap Golf Camp at the Royal Northwoods Golf and Country Club in San Rafael, Bulacan, proved to be more than just a training ground—it was a transformative experience for young, aspiring golfers.

Led by the country’s top junior golfer Rianne Malixi, the camp brought together a select group of junior athletes for three days of intensive training, mentorship, and mental conditioning. The program aimed to elevate not only the technical skills of the participants but also their competitive mindset.

For 11-year-old Brianna Macasaet, the experience was a dream come true. "We saw this as a rare opportunity for Brie to learn directly from Rianne, someone she has admired for years,” said her mother. “Meeting Rianne in person was both proud and inspiring for her.”

Macasaet said the camp stood out for its structured, disciplined, and energetic environment, which created the perfect setting for young athletes to grow. "Brie learned valuable lessons on routine, mental preparation, and the finer details of the short game. She’s already applying them in her training," she added.

One of the most memorable takeaways for Brie was Rianne’s advice to “stay present, trust your swing, and bounce back from bad shots.” These mental strategies, Macasaet said, were especially helpful during the camp's putting and focus drills that pushed Brie beyond her comfort zone.

Rianne’s presence was not merely symbolic—she was hands-on throughout the camp, offering direct insights and participating in drills. “She encouraged Brie to trust her game and be confident during tournaments,” Macasaet shared. “That personal feedback really made an impact.”

Another camper, Marco Angheng, described the experience as “like standing next to Tiger Woods.” He called the camp a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to learn not just from Rianne but also from a lineup of top-tier coaches and fellow junior golfers.

Marco said the camp helped improve his swing and putting technique, which were key areas of focus during the sessions. “I realized it’s not about the distance—it’s about the short game,” he said.

Inspired by the camp, Marco is now setting his sights higher. “I want to become the best and win the Masters someday,” he said confidently. He’s already planning to apply what he learned—especially the new swing mechanics, practice routines, and mental focus—to his next tournament.

Both young golfers expressed their eagerness to return if the camp is held again. “It was fun and it helped me improve,” Marco said. “Definitely worth it.” For Brie, the mentorship and inspiration she gained are things she’ll carry with her as she continues to pursue her golfing dreams.

As for advice to other junior golfers thinking of joining? “If you’re serious about improving, join,” Brie’s mother said. “It’s an experience that goes beyond golf—it teaches discipline, resilience, and passion.”

The Big Leap Golf Camp may have lasted just a few days, but its impact on the next generation of Filipino golfers looks to be long-lasting.