Local golfer an inspiration to women
“I started playing golf because I wanted to play a sport professionally that would allow me to play for a longer period of time,” she said.
Professional golfer and Farrarmere resident Leján Lewthwaite (30) has excelled in the game since she started playing golf at the age of nine.
“Golf is my world, it has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl to be a professional sportswoman,” she said.
“I enjoy playing golf because of the amazing golf courses I get to discover all around the world, as well as its endless ability to always challenge me to be better.”
Matriculating from St. Dominic’s Catholic School for Girls in Boksburg, Lewthwaite succeeded in earning her BSc degree (cum laude) from Texas State University. Since then she has racked up numerous achievements.
“One of my biggest achievements was being the first and only woman, to date, to win twice on the Men’s IGT tour.
“I earned my full playing rights on the Ladies European Tour and kept my status after a year on tour.”
She also won back to back on the Sunshine Ladies Tour last year.
“I started playing golf because I wanted to play a sport professionally that would allow me to play for a longer period of time,” she said.
“For example, professional tennis players have a much shorter career than say golfers.”
It is a common misconception that golf is only played by men. When asking Lewthwaite what she thought about this, she said, “Women bring a whole different dimension to the game of golf, and sport in general.
“Investec, my sponsor, is serious about equalling the pay gap between men and women and continuing the support of home-grown athletes to do well on a global scale.”
This local’s role models are Annika Sorenstam and Tiger Woods.
“I admire both of their careers, how much they have achieved and what they have done for the game of golf.”
Her other sponsors include Taylormade (Morecorp South Africa), Skechers and Serengeti Estates.
“Investec helps cover golf-related expenses such as travel to tournaments and coaching/training, Taylormade sponsors my golf equipment and Abacus clothing, Skechers sponsors my golf shoes and Serengeti Estates grants me access to training facilities when I am home.”
Lewthwaite believes she wouldn’t be where she is today without her family, boyfriend, coach, mental coach and trainer.
“They all play an important role in my life, my well-being and in my golf career,” she concluded.
Also Read: COVID-19: Oosrand Secondary postpones annual golf day
