Swiss national Kira Kappeler was a first time visitor to South Africa when she came to experience KeNako Golf and Sports Academy in January 2017.

That visit was intended to allow her to experience KeNako for a trial period, but she enjoyed it so much that she decided to enroll as a full time school going student almost immediately!

Kira enjoys the sunny warm climate and the laid-back friendly culture of South Africans. From a golf perspective she really enjoys playing on the pristine golf courses in the Garden Route region.

Being a golf-lover himself, it was Kira’s father Jürg Kappeler who introduced her to the game, a family past time she adores with her parents. Being an outdoor enthusiast, she enjoyed horse-back riding, swimming and tennis, but three years ago she made the decision to focus solely on her golf with the hopes of reaching her dream and becoming a golf professional.

Kira competed in the U12 Swiss Championships in which she came 3 rd , an accomplishment she is very proud of. Kira is currently an 8 handicap and her aspiration for 2017 is to improve her play and get her handicap down. Kira’s favourite club is her 3 wood – she enjoys the fact that she can just “smash” the ball with it, it exhilarates her and she describes it as one of the best feelings in the world.

Kira’s thoughts on KeNako; ”I really like it. I enjoy being so close to the range, the golf club and the greens. I really enjoy the atmosphere. The coaches inspire you, you can learn so much from all of them. I am receiving a great education, having fun with friends and making wonderful memories whilst focusing on my golf. It is just about working hard and enjoying life.”

She believes that the mental skills training helps her to remain focus when competing in tournaments. On the physical side she is in the gym training on her mobility, flexibility and overall fitness 2 -3 times a week and she is on the golf course almost every day practicing or playing.

Kira is currently in Grade 9 equivalent, completing her Checkpoint 3 Cambridge Education at Rundle College.  Her subjects include; English, French, Mathematics, Art, History, Geography, Science, Accounting, Economics and Business Studies. Kira enjoys the small classrooms, which she feels provides a good atmosphere for learning.

Her golf hero is Spanish professional golfer Sergio García. She looks up to his work ethic and his commitment to succeed. The golf course on her bucket list is Augusta National Golf Club because the best players in the world compete there during the annual Masters Tournament. Her favourite local course is Oubaai Golf Course where you can enjoy spectacular views of the ocean whilst you play.

Determination, dedication and self-discipline will turn your dreams into reality! Keep it up Kira and keep smiling – you have a beautiful smile!