Taking That Shot
Oscar Nava, Wynona and Dan
Fourteen-year-old Wynona Gella is not your ordinary teenager. This sophomore student of Colegio de las Hijas de Jesus loves to play golf and has won in numerous junior golf tournaments in the country.
Know more about her passion for the game in this interview.
KMV: When did you start playing golf?
WG: I started to like golf at the age of nine and played at 10.
KMV: What or who influenced you in this sport?
WG: My dad, William. We were at the golf club one time and I was just sitting down. I was bored. So, when my father rested, I stood up and hit some balls. Imoy, the guy from the club, taught me.
Wynona at the Frankie Miñoza Jungolf
KMV: When did you start joining tournaments?
WG: At age 12, at the DHL Jungolf Tournament in Bacolod. I won second place. Also, I compete in local monthly tournaments in the Iloilo Golf and Country Club.
KMV: Since you're still studying, when do you find time to practice?
WG: Weekends.
KMV: What is it about golf that you like?
WG: Here, I am able to meet more friends, to have fun, to challenge myself, learn discipline, be focused and learn that every decision that I make should be it.
Wynona with Eva Miñoza
KMV: How do you hone your skills?
WG: I practice hard, read golf magazines and remember the moments that could make the ball go further. Before a competition, I eat a lot for strength, get a lot of sleep and take supplements.
KMV: Do you dream of becoming a professional golfer?
WG: Yes.
KMV: Who are your favorite professional golfers?
WG: Jennifer Rosales, Anika Sorenstam, Jack Nichols and Tiger Woods.
KMV: Who had been supportive of you in this sport?
WG: My dad, my sponsor Standard Insurance through Dan Viray and my manager Oscar Nava.
KMV: Any advice to teens who want to get better in golf?
WG: You have to practice hard. You have to make some sacrifices. Instead of partying or malling, spend your time practicing. Be not afraid to turn dark because with golf, you are constantly exposed to the sun. There are times that I just wanted to cry because of the heat of the sun and the sweat.
Wynona with Marianne Woo
KMV: In what way has golf changed you?
WG: When you play golf, everything will change. Positive changes. You become dedicated, you learn discipline, learn the values of honesty, competitiveness, sportsmanship and leadership.
Competitions Wynona Gella has joined
Visayas Mindanao Jungolf
May 18-19, 2007
Del Monte Golf and Country Club, San Miguel Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon
Won second place
Frankie Miñoza Golf Tournament
May 20-21, 2007
Del Monte Golf and Country Club, San Miguel Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon
Won third place
May 24-25, 2007
Second Leg of the Visayas Mindanao Jungolf
Cebu
Won fifth place
May 28-29, 2007
Third Leg of the Visayas Mindanao Jungolf
Bacolod
Won third place