Salt Rock golfer (6) claims fourth KZN title in less than a year
Zimele Gasa (6) shot 35 across nine holes on June 8, adding to his growing trophy collection following wins at Kloof Country Club (January 19) and Zimbali Country Club (March 2). Zimele's passion for golf was ignited while playing at a driving range while on holiday in Dubai two years ago.
Zimele's favourite player is Tiger Woods, and the driver is his favourite club. He dedicated his recent success to his father, who was in hospital at the time.
'I love this sport, and I am happy I won because I played for my dad,' he said.
His mother, Thembekile, said he loves golf because he is making many friends. He is part of the McKenna Performance Golf Academy, practising twice a week at Umhlali Country Club.
Thembekile said her son's success has surprised everyone because nobody in the family plays the sport.
'He always boasts that he is the first golfer in the family,' she said.
'For a year he kept asking to play, then eventually we contacted the academy and he started his lessons. I just signed him up for fun – the next thing I know, he is doing well. He is very competitive and good at all sports, but this was not expected.'
SA Kids Golf organises competitive golf tournaments for participants aged 5 to 18, which are supported by PGA South Africa and the South African Golf Association. Zimele's impressive year includes four runners-up places, including a second-place finish at the Kids World Championship qualifier at Seasons Eco Golf Estate in Hartbeespoort, North West Province.
The Curro pupil, who turns seven in August, is also an ace swimmer. Earlier this year, he won three golds and one bronze medal at a provincial gala, despite competing in a higher age group.
His main focus, however, is next month's Junior Africa Challenge at San Lameer Country Club.
'I am ready for San Lameer. I feel good and hope to play well,' he said.
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