If anyone understands the importance of “timing is everything,” it is UCF alumnus Ricardo Gouveia ’14. By qualifying for the Summer Olympics in Rio, the former golf standout will be part of history as the sport returns to the Games after a 112-year hiatus.
Golf was first played at the Olympic Games in Paris in 1900, only to be removed after 1904. It was voted back in seven years ago by the International Olympic Committee, setting in motion Gouveia’s road to Rio, where he will represent his home country of Portugal.
“It feels great,” Gouveia told UCFKnights.com. “It’s one of those sporting events that you dream to be a part of at least once in your life. It’s going to be special being in Rio where the native language is Portuguese.”
Gouveia is one of three UCF alumni who will compete in the Olympics this year. He and Aline Reis ‘11 (Brazil, soccer) are making their first Olympic Games appearances, while 2008 gold medalist Phil Dalhausser ’02 (USA, beach volleyball) is set for his third and potentially final appearance.
Gouveia was a two-time all-region and All-America honorable-mention honoree as a Knight in 2011-14. He turned pro after graduating with a degree in interdisciplinary studies with a business administration minor.
“The whole experience that I had at UCF was crucial to reach the level of play and the stability that I have right now,” he told UCFKnights.com. “I learned so much from a lot of people while attending school. I can’t thank them enough.”
Gouveia competed in his first PGA event this year when he was invited to join the field at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in Orlando.
He is ranked 34th in the field of 60. Gouveia will play Aug. 11-14 on the Olympic Golf Course. The Games begin Friday and last until Aug. 21.
To follow Gouveia on Twitter, click here.