Young local golfer makes a name for himself

Seventeen-year-old Eric Ncube has been playing golf for 11 years and shows no signs of slowing down.
Last year he won both the Men’s and Junior Club Championships at Wanderers Golf Club with scores of 73 and 71 to also successfully defend his junior title.

He plays for the Central Gauteng Golf Union and has represented the South African Golf Development Board in numerous tournaments.

Ncube was introduced to golf by his cousin when he was just five years old. When he turned eight he started to show dedication and commitment to the sport.

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He later enrolled at the Balderstone Sports Institute on a scholarship where he is currently doing his fourth year.

“I started on a soccer field hitting the balls into a black bin. Such a good experience that I would never trade for anything,” he said.

For him, golf is something that has the potential to turn his life situation around.

He said it is competitive which is something he enjoys and that without the support of his family, he wouldn’t be where he is today.

“Golf is a lot of work but enjoyable. There’s a bit of pressure when you go out there, people watching you and not wanting to disappoint.

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“You need to show up because if you are not performing you lose out on opportunities such as scholarships,” shared Ncube.

He trains weekly from 13:00 until 18:00.

Currently, he ranks number 13 for the U19 in Central Gauteng and 54 for the juniors (U19) at Golf SA.

“My plan for this year is to put in a lot of work and move up my ranking. I want to hit the gym more.”

His all-time favourite golfer is Tiger Woods.

“For me, he is the greatest in the sport and has inspired me a lot. He has taught me to make the best of this opportunity that I have and just kill it out there.

“And that school has to be the main priority always,” he added.

His dream is to play in the Masters, have a pro ranking and go on tour in Europe.

“As a young black boy, I just want to use my platform to inspire other young people to pursue their dreams as I am not only representing myself but the young ones coming after me as well.

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“It is all about pushing and doing the best that you can, this is a lovely game and that is why I love it,” said Ncube.

On February 4 he played the SA Amateur hosted by the Golf RSA at Royal Johannesburg Golf Club.

He expressed his gratitude to SAGDB and BSI for the opportunity.