Captain South America - Pablo Caviedes
fippa.org caught up with busy Chilean medical academic Pablo Caviedes as the genial World Cup veteran reflected on his latest Pitch and Putt role, captain of the South American team at the recent Fernando Morgado Trophy.
fippa.org (Q.) How much of an honour was it to be named Captain South America?
Pablo Caviedes (PC): I was ecstatic when the Secretary of the Chilean Pitch and Putt Federation, Dr. Juan Morán, called me to inform me that I had been selected as Captain of the South American team for the 2018 'Ryder' Cup. Considering all the fine individuals in the Pitch and Putt world in our region, where there were many most meritorious candidates, it was undoubtedly the greatest honor I’ve received in my life as a Pitch and Putt player.
Q. Was it easy to to foster a team spirit amongst the South American group?
PC. The team's spirit was the easiest aspect to foster. It was already present in the qualifying rounds of the previous months, some played in the blazing heat of the Santiago summer. The team united under one common goal, and our friends from Argentina and our new-found friend from Brazil, Adauto Moraes, came together most easily. I am most proud to have been able to lead such a group of most fine individuals on the difficult course in Puerto Velero
Q. What were the team tactics?
PC. Tactics varied greatly and had to be adjusted at the last minute, considering the changing weather conditions, in particular the wind. Routinely, mornings are calm in Puerto Velero, but in the afternoon the wind kicks in from the Pacific Ocean and the situation in the course changes dramatically. Hence, I had to instruct everybody with a few days' anticipation to bring a couple of extra clubs that were longer than the ones they used routinely. This especially applied to players from Santiago, a city where we seldom have wind due to the geography (we are surrounded by mountains). This proved to be quite advantageous, especially for the first day, when the wind was very strong. On tactics, I prioritised placing local players (Gustavo Cortés and Claudio Ogaz) in pairings with non-locals on the first day, so they could provide insightful information about the course to their partners in play. This tactic proved fruitful after the first round, which ended in a draw. Afterwards, the might of the European team took over, and they finally claimed victory in the final day (Sunday). I was also very happy to learn Gustavo Cortés will travelling to Verin, Galicia, to play the World Seniors Championship. A fine individual, who will represent Chile admirably.
Q. Your impression of the European team?
PC. I knew practically all of the European players from previous tournaments in Europe, and it was a pleasure to welcome Jozep Klancnik, from the new Slovenian Pitch and Putt organization. All an amazing group of individuals, both on and off the course. I feel most privileged to count them as friends who embody the integrative spirit of Pitch and Putt and take it with them all over the world.
Q. The publicity generated in Chile must have been hugely gratifying? PC. I give full credit to our President, Patricio Rubel, and to Fernando Morgado Jr. for their unbelievable work in this regard. Not only did they secure outstanding press coverage (that was even envied by some European players), but also secured strong support from the local government for the tournament. The Mayor of Coquimbo and his team were decisive in making this a most successful venue. My contribution in this aspect was mostly limited to providing some on the spot, simultaneous translation in the many interviews of European, non-Spanish speaking players!
Q. What is the legacy of the Fernando Morgado Trophy for Pitch and Putt in Chile? In South America?
PC. I strongly believe this marks a before and after. The sport is now in the public eye, and new member countries will be joining soon. Argentina is first in line, and I look forward to the third match with them in Buenos Aires later this year. Ecuador has also come into play - I envision they will be joining shortly. Also, Adauto Moraes will spearhead the initiative of creating a Federation in Brazil, which would be a huge leap for the sport worldwide. Last, but most importantly, the regional government and Puerto Velero, as a consequence of the Ryder Cup, have formalized an agreement to have children from local schools come to the course to learn the sport. This is paramount in my view, and will secure the continuity and further development of the sport for generations to come.
Q. What's next for Pablo Caviedes in Pitch and Putt?
PC. For the time being, I am devoted to the National Teams Championship in Chile. Last year, our team, Colegio di Medico, ended in second place after a very competitive championship.So, we are preparing diligently to aim for the win this year! I also look forward to local tournaments. Internationally, I would have loved to play in Verin, but my duties at the University will limit my travel in 2018, which will be mostly work related. I have set up protected time for the third match with Argentina, though, which I will not miss!
