These are exciting times for junior golf in the Southern Cape. There is an abundance of talent in the different age groups; passionate parents who encourage their children and who transport them to the events; a host of wonderful golf courses; and dedicated and enthusiastic organisers who volunteer their time to junior golf. Combine all of this and the Southern Cape offers an exceptional junior golf service, providing knowledge and experience for the growing number of talented young golfers. KeNako Academy adds another dimension to the golfing equation in the region.
In 2013 the aspiring young golfers have the benefit of an incredible tournament schedule, allowing them ample opportunity to develop their competitive skills. There are twenty one 18 hole junior tournaments and fourteen 36 hole senior tournaments being played on the Southern Cape Tournament Schedule – well done to the Southern Cape Golf Director and to all the clubs for their contribution to Junior Golf.
The juniors have already played 2 tournaments this year and they have had the privilege of playing on two of the best courses in the country – George Golf Club and the Ernie Els designed Oubaai Golf Resort.
- A Division Winner- Garen Niemand
- B Division Winner- Charnay Williams
KeNako students have begun the year in good form with Johan Oosthuizen finishing 3rd on a count back from fellow KeNako student Aidan Boon at the George Golf Club – this was Johan’s best local result to date – followed by the Oubaai tournament which was dominated by KeNako students. The A Division was won by Garen Niemand on a gross score of 71, followed by Cameron Moralee in 2nd place, with James Pennington finishing 4th. It was pleasing to see KeNako student, Charnay Williams win the B Division as well.
As is the case each year, KeNako’s new students will take some time to adjust, not only to their new surrounds but also to the different conditions, a situation compounded by their new technical, mental and physical programs. It has been pleasing to see some of the new intake still performing close to their handicaps.
The next few weeks are a very busy time. It starts with the Oubaai Club Championships next weekend – KeNako students are members of this wonderful golf course and will be competing. Then two of KeNako’s students have qualified for the SA Amateur to be played at Oubaai the week after the Club Championships; followed by the next round of the KeNako Junior Series on the 17th February at Kingswood Golf Estate.
Well done to all the juniors on their enthusiasm and efforts and a special well done to the KeNako students for starting the year so well. The professionals at KeNako look forward to watching you all improve over the coming weeks and months.