Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Nicolas Bencomo

Nicolas Bencomo is a rising senior on the Cardinal Mooney High boys golf team. Bencomo, who committed to the University of Nevada-Las Vegas in February, finished tied for ninth (73-73-69-65—280) at the 2024 Florida State Golf Association Amateur Championship, held June 6-9 at Quail Valley Golf Club and Bent Pine Golf Club in Vero Beach. 

When did you start playing golf?

My dad (Ozzy Bencomo) got me into it at an early age. I started on the course when I was 4. I was born in Venezuela, and baseball is the biggest sport over there. I tried baseball and a few other sports, but golf was the one that stuck. 

What is the appeal to you?

It's just my passion. My dream is to be a professional golfer. It's what I like the most. 

What has been working for you in recent events?

Everything has been pretty solid lately. My putting struggled during the first two rounds of the Amateur Championship, but other than that, there aren't many weaknesses in my game right now. 

What have you been working to improve?

It's always the short game.  You can get away with hitting the ball bad if your short game can save you. Like I said, I struggled putting in the first two rounds (of the Amateur Championship), so I spent two hours after the second round on the putting green and it helped.

What were your expectations heading into the Amateur Championship?

I didn't have any. I just went out there and trusted my game. I felt good going into the week and I knew I would get hot at some point. I just stayed patient. 

What does the top-10 finish do for you?

It proves to me that I can compete with guys who are older than me and ranked pretty high, even guys who are already at NCAA Division I schools. Knowing that I can stack up against them is a huge confidence boost.

Why did you commit to UNLV?

The biggest things for me in recruitment were the coaches, the schedule and the practice facility. UNLV checked every single box. I'm looking forward to spending four years with them. 

What is your favorite food?

I have to go with sushi. It is a go-to whenever I am craving something good. 

What is your favorite TV show?

"Money Heist" is a good one. 

What is your favorite school subject?

Overall, I would say math. I like statistics and numbers. 

What are your hobbies?

I like to play pickleball. Usually when I'm not playing golf, I'm just hanging with my friends or my family. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Patience is huge. Golf is not the most consistent sport. You are going to have off days. You are not always going to play well. Trust that your game is sharp and stay consistent in practice and things will end up OK. 

Finish this sentence: "Nicolas Bencomo is … "

A fighter. I'm never going to give up on a round.