There are a lot of memories stashed away for Oliver Gan both as a father to daughters Nicole and Stephanie, and a son to his dad Steve.
But the one he cherished the most was when all of them enjoyed the legendary Torrey Pines in San Diego, California, back in 2019.
“It’s a big deal for all of us to play a sport very close to our hearts in one of the most famous golf courses in the world,” said Oliver, president of the Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines.
“It’s the best bonding moment for us.”
Oliver introduced the sport to his kids — when Nicole was seven, and Stephanie was four — the same way Steve lit up the fire in him. Steve taught him how to play golf to clear his mind after he was cut from seniors basketball team in school.
“Golfing with them at Torrey Pines and at Pebble Beach are priceless memories. But as much as possible I spend time with them the same way my dad (Steve) spent time with me,” Oliver added.
“Yes. The thrill of winning and the agony of defeat is what keeps us going,” added Oliver who is former Philippine junior golf champion himself.
They play at least once a week, mostly on Sunday afternoons.
“I consider golf as our love language,” he said. “I’m lucky that my kids appreciate the sport of golf. Golf teaches kids to be disciplined and to be responsible.”
On some other times, Oliver spends quality moments with them going to amusement parks and shopping at Korean grocery stores.
Maybe it’s because he’s a parent himself that Oliver understands the point of view of parents whose kids are out there competing.
“There are many issues involving parents from bullying or harassment to excessive coaching,” he bared.
That’s why he employed a sports psychologist not just to take care of the jungolfers’ mental state but also to be a guide for parents.
After all, it’s hard to stay cool when your kids are on the course.
“Yes, am also affected by their performance. But I try to keep it to myself. As a former junior golfer I know what to say and what to do when they are struggling.”
That makes him a great dad, on and off the course.
