Over 40 enthusiastic children from Soweto were treated to an unforgettable day on Saturday, 8 March, as they strolled the stunning fairways of Houghton Golf Club!
They had the incredible chance to witness professional golfers in action on the thrilling day three of the Joburg Open International Golf Tournament. The atmosphere was electric, filled with excitement and inspiration as these young fans soaked in the exhilarating world of professional golf.
The youngsters were given an up-close view of the tournament’s intensity, drawing inspiration from past Joburg Open champions, including South Africa’s George Coetzee (2014), England’s Andy Sullivan (2015), and India’s Shubhankar Sharma (2017).
Coach and coordinator Ramoroka Magooa expressed gratitude to the City of Johannesburg and its partners, the DP World Tour and Sunshine Tour, for the invitation.
“Thank you to the City for making this possible. We want to see these children grow in the sport, and who knows, maybe one day a Tiger Woods will emerge from among them,” he said.
Magooa added that the children were captivated by the precision and power displayed on the course. “They were in awe, watching the players hit powerful drives and sink crucial putts. It was truly inspiring for them.”
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development, Cllr Tebogo Nkokou, emphasised the importance of breaking down barriers that have long positioned golf as an elite sport.
“This initiative is part of the City’s broader strategy to make sports more accessible, particularly in historically disadvantaged communities. Golf has the power to inspire, instil discipline, and create future opportunities,” said Cllr Nkokou.
“The participation of these young players is a step towards ensuring golf is not only perceived as a sport for the privileged but as an accessible and viable career path for all,” he added.
Cllr Nkokou also urged communities to support youth participation in sports. “Spectators and stakeholders must continue investing in grassroots sports development to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to dream big and achieve greatness.”
As part of its commitment to youth development, the Joburg Open International Golf Tournament hosted a coaching clinic on Wednesday, 5 March, where aspiring young golfers had the chance to learn from professionals ahead of the tournament. The City of Johannesburg remains dedicated to nurturing long-term community engagement through such initiatives.
The Joburg Open International Golf Tournament concludes on Sunday, 9 March, when the 2025 champion will be crowned.