The game of golf continues to grow in the country, and in Limpopo it is reported that the game is boosting sports tourism, economic investment and job creation.
Recognising the importance of the sport, South African golfing icon Nico van Rensburg has teamed up with the rising stars of Limpopo via Vuma Golf Clinics to teach youngsters the game and to encourage participation.
Van Rensburg founded the Vuma Golf Clinics in 2021 as a way to give back to the sport he loves and to communities across the nation.
In partnership with fibre network operator Vuma, the clinics support young golfers who cannot afford professional training and provide 24/7 access to support via the Golf Coach app, enabling golfers to build relationships with coaches and friends and cope with pressure.
“Golf can be an expensive sport to play; hence, we work tirelessly to develop and scout the next generation of champions by ensuring that young players have access to quality training early in their careers, giving them a solid foundation,” Van Rensburg said.
“We invite kids of all backgrounds and walks of life to take part in golf clinics, where they get to learn from the country’s top coaches, while enjoying a fun-filled day with other young golfers, with loads of food and prizes,” he said.
Van Rensburg, along with top coaches Hendrik Bührmann and Pierre van Niewenhuisen, will be offering coaching support to young players from the community.
This will take place at the upcoming Vuma Golf Clinics event at the Euphoria Golf Estate in Mookgophong, Limpopo, on July 18.
“Nothing brings me joy like nurturing young golfers. Seeing young people’s eagerness and willingness to learn reminds me of the first time I played golf. Working with people and coaching is something that I am passionate about, and I can’t wait to discover Limpopo’s next champions,” said Bührmann.
It is said that young golfers can access 24/7 support through the Golf Coach app, uploading swing and form videos for coaches to review and provide feedback.
“The clinics have helped me not only on the course but also off the course, enabling me to build relationships with others and helping me cope with pressure,” said young champ Daniel Bennett.
The golfer broke records at the 2023 Nomads South Africa Boys’ Under-19 Stroke Play Championship and won first place in the Boland Amateur Stroke Play in April.
Zinan Maimane, a 15-year-old golfer who recently won the Gauteng North Golf Union Closed A-Division by five shots, is aspiring to become an international pro.
“I hope to become a professional golfer on the PGA Tour one day and win at least one PGA Tour event along with any of the majors,” he said.
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za