Team PEI Golfer Overcomes Adversity to Achieve Personal Best
Team PEI 2026 Golf athlete, Matthew Jehn, ended his first Special Olympics Canada Games on a high note after a tough first round of competition.
After shooting a 59 personal best during his practice round, Matthew faced adversity when the golf competition officially got underway. The weather conditions on day one of golf competition was exceptionally tough, downpouring for the entire time Matthew was out on the course. Matthew's Coach and Caddie, Shayne Hogan, stayed by his side, helping him to refocus as they got ready for the next day.
Matthew started his second round off refocused. After a good warm up on the range, Matthew and Shayne headed out on the course. Matthew stayed focused, and kept in mind Shayne's words of encouragement "one shot at a time".
I am very proud of him to bounce back so quickly after such a rain drenched first round. It's just amazing for him to make that big turnaround on his score, and get another personal best.
Matthew is relatively new to Special Olympics having just joined 3 years ago. What Shayne notices most about Matthew is his growing confidence.
The biggest change has been his confidence, the way he handles himself. He's improved vastly in the last three years. Every competition he gets better, and he also gets better at forgetting his bad shots
Reflecting on his first Special Olympics Canada Games experience, Matthew is on top of the world.
I am proud of myself. Proud of my score. My coach is proud of me too.
On the heals of a second personal best of the Games in the second round, and a very strong third round, Matthew was able to fully celebrate this achievements. With great excitement, Shayne was able to share the news with Matthew that he had won the Gold medal. Grinning ear to ear, Matthew stepped on top of the podium, and was presented with a well deserved Gold medal in front of a cheering crowd.
I am very proud, and couldn't be happier for him. He's always worked so hard. We make a good team.
