Robert Petelinkar takes an
academic approach to
improving your game
STORY AND PHOTOS BY GREG GARDNER
ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN INDIAN RIVER MAGAZINE
I n just five years, more than 2,700
students from all over the world have
gone through the Jensen Beach Golf
Academy, the first program of its kind on
the Treasure Coast.
“I’m the initiator, not the imitator,” said
Robert Petelinkar, director of golf at the academy,
which is accredited by the PGA and staffed with four
Pierre Desbiens practices a short chip shot at Eagle Marsh Golf Club under
other teachers. “There was no structured program on the
Treasure Coast. I decided to do it because I wanted to grow
the game of golf.”
Watching the 43-year-old Petelinkar, known as “Bobby
P,” at work is a lesson in patience and enthusiasm. He is
always upbeat as he eggs his students on with humor and
encouragement. A recent class had a retired couple, a high
school freshman and a couple of other golfers in between.
“He’s funny. He’s more like a kid,” said Jimmy Pembroke,
who hopes to make the golf team next year at Jensen Beach
High School. “He’s one of the greatest teachers for golf.
People at my school say he is the best. If I make a bad shot,
he fixes it. He has tools to help keep your arm straight, show
GOLF
the instruction of Bobby P. At the end of the lesson the students engage in
a quick competition of closest to the pin.
you the right swing plane and a mirror to show you your
body’s alignment.”
While students have ranged in age from 3 1⁄2 years to 93,
Petelinkar relates especially well to teenagers. “His real forte
is the kids,” said Paul Howley, an occasional fill-in instructor
and owner of Eagle Marsh Golf Club, where the academy
is based. “He’s very patient. He’s good at transmitting
the message in a fun manner. He’s pleasant and energetic.
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EDWARD G. ENNS
Indian Hills Golf Course
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