Following the success of its inaugural run at Royal Northwoods in Bulacan, The Big Leap Golf Camp — a grassroots golf development initiative spearheaded by rising star Rianne Malixi — is set to make its way to Mindanao this November.

The iconic Apo Golf and Country Club in Davao City is being eyed for the three-day training camp which will bring together selected junior golfers from the region alongside some of the country’s top teaching professionals.

The project was formally sealed on Tuesday during a recent meeting between Roy Malixi, Rianne’s father and the program lead, and Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines (JGFP) president Oliver Gan. Joining them were Big Leap PR director Roanne Beltran, golf coach Aileen Rose Yao, JGFP executive Johanna Gaisano, and JGFP secretary general Ariel Vanguardia.

Bridging the gaps in junior golf

The Big Leap was conceptualized not only to nurture young talent but also to instill discipline, competitive focus, and proper fundamentals in junior golfers, including outside Metro Manila.

Rianne Malixi, the world No. 5 amateur and winner of the 2024 US Women’s Amateur and US Junior Girls Championships, has lent both her name and personal commitment to the initiative, making herself visible in select sessions to inspire younger players.

The initial camp received overwhelming support from golf parents, local clubs, and junior athletes. Participants praised the blend of technical coaching, mental game sessions, and on-course strategies taught by a carefully selected team of coaches.

With Apo Golf — one of the country’s most respected southern layouts and a frequent host of national and regional tournaments — playing host, the stage is set for The Big Leap to leave a lasting impact in Mindanao.

Davao’s turn to shine

“This is a huge step forward,” said JGFP president Oliver Gan, who has aggressively pushed for more regional golf programs since assuming his post. “Davao, and Mindanao in general, has plenty of untapped potential. With the right training and support system, we’re confident many of these kids can compete nationally and even internationally.”

Roy Malixi, who has played a pivotal role in guiding Rianne’s own career from a young age, emphasized the long-term goal of the program.

“We want to create opportunities for juniors regardless of geography or background. Golf should be inclusive. The Big Leap is about giving access, giving confidence, and giving these kids a shot at something bigger.”

The program in Davao will feature hands-on swing clinics, short game and putting drills, on-course playing sessions, mental game workshops, and talks with mentors, parents, and sports psychologists.