The KeNako SA World Juniors got underway this morning on a beautiful sunny South African day, although there is some wind which will no doubt test the players. The players enjoyed a memorable Opening Banquet at the Hotel Golf Village last night. The evening started with a rendition of Nkosi Sikelele, South Africa’s National Anthem, by the Thembalethu School Choir. The international themed evening saw the national flags of all 16 participating countries forming part of the room decoration and players from each country were welcomed by Dr Susanna Rosswag, President of the World Junior Golf Series (WJGS) and Mr. Tom Burnett, Vice-President of the WJGS.
Ron Boon, Chairman of the KeNako Academy, thanked Retief Goosen for his continued support as Patron of the tournament and shared a DVD that was created earlier this year for the resident KeNako students on ‘Attitude’. Ron also announced that besides being the first tournament of the WJGS Tour for 2013, the KeNako SA World Juniors is a R & A Ranking Event. Dr Rosswag then shared a film showing Retief Goosen’s drama at the 18th hole of the 2001 US Open and his strength of mind and character the next day when he went on to win the play-off for the title. She reminded players to stay focussed and in the moment but also to enjoy the game and not get down on themselves after hitting a poor shot.
Tom Burnett, who had only arrived after a long flight from Jacksonville in Florida, USA, during the afternoon, paid special tribute to the KeNako Academy’s involvement and contribution to junior golf and told the audience that he cannot think of another academy facility anywhere in the world that is able to compare with what KeNako has to offer.
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Players at KeNako SA World Juniors Opening Banquet 2013