India, Feb. 20 -- Shubhankar Sharma's pursuit of home-cooked vegetarian cuisine during his travels may have inadvertently led to the discovery of a potential golf prodigy for Kenya.

A heartwarming narrative is unfolding at this week's Magical Kenya Open, a DP World Tour event taking place at Muthaiga Golf Club in Nairobi. The event showcases India's Sharma alongside 15-year-old Shashwat Harish, a Kenyan amateur of Indian descent and the youngest competitor in the tournament.

Over the past year, Shashwat has claimed numerous junior titles in his home country. His achievement has earned him one of the amateur positions in the US$2.5 million event.

Shashwat's passion for golf ignited at an early age, well before Sharma entered his life as a significant influence in 2022. When they first met, Shashwat was just 12 years old and playing with a handicap of 16. Now, two years later, he has reached the scratch level and carries the aspirations of his nation.

The affable Sharma provided him with an insider's perspective on the life of a professional golfer and was always willing to address his numerous insightful inquiries about the sport. Recognizing Shashwat's talent and enthusiasm, Sharma extended an invitation for him to visit India, offering accommodation at his home in Chandigarh and arranging for him to train with his coach, Jesse Grewal.

None of this would have transpired without Sharma's enduring desire for traditional Indian meals.

In 2022, Sharma, a dedicated vegetarian, sought assistance from friends in London to locate suitable food options in Nairobi. Following a few phone calls, a connection was made with Harish Thyagarajan, a banker, and his wife Usha, a wildlife photographer.

It was during this time that he met Shashwat. As Shashwat served him sambhar rice and various South Indian dishes at his home, he evolved from an enthusiastic admirer to Sharma's caddy, carrying his bag for nine holes when Sharma's original caddie, Lyle, fell ill during the 2023 Kenya Open, and now he has become a competitor for Sharma's favourite golfer.

Shashwat frequently uses the term 'evolve,' and this situation has indeed been one of rapid transformation.

"I met Shashwat and his family three years ago, and we have developed a close friendship since then. They have been incredibly hospitable. Despite his youth, he engaged in meaningful conversations with his parents and me. I was particularly impressed by his insightful questions, genuine passion for golf, and his determination to improve as a player," stated Sharma, the highest-ranked Indian male golfer globally at No. 252 and a consistent participant on the DP World Tour for the past seven years.

"We have maintained our connection, and I introduced him to Jess,e sir. He has visited Chandigarh multiple times and stayed at our home. I have also spent time at their residence in Kenya over the past couple of years.

"Now, he is competing in this tournament alongside me, and I take great pride in his progress. I played a practice round with him and observed significant improvements in his game. He possesses a strong mindset and has grown both physically and in skill. Hearing stories like his is truly inspiring, and I am delighted to have played a role in his journey.

"I believe we will see much more of him, not only in the Kenya Opens but also in other Tour events."

Shashwat, a diligent student with a strong affinity for the sciences, attributes his progress to the guidance of Sharma and Grewal.

"It is truly remarkable to have a mentor like Shubhankar, whose experience I can rely on for advice," stated Shashwat, who commenced his campaign on Thursday with a commendable score of three-over 75 on a golf course where his previous best was 72.

"I must acknowledge that my sessions with Jesse sir have been transformative. His extensive knowledge is invaluable, and I appreciate how he explains the scientific principles behind the golf swing. This understanding has significantly improved my technique."

"This week, I will regard Shubhankar as my competitor rather than a friend, as he suggested. I do not have specific expectations regarding scores or rankings; my primary goal is to develop as a player. This experience is immensely educational for me, as I observe these exceptional players up close."

Sharma welcomes the competition, provided they can offer him some rajma-chaawal.

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