Greg’s strokes ahead of the rest

PLAYING in one of the world’s major tournaments is the dream of every young professional golfer. For La Lucia’s golfing sensation, Gregory McKay, the dream is no different. The Grade 10 pupil has already caught the attention of golfing pundits with some questioning whether he was the next Ernie Els. Among the growing list of accolades for the Kearsney College pupil is the KZN U23 Stroke Play tournament which he won at the San Lameer Country Club recently.

He carded 69 and 74 to win by two from Bryce Bibby. McKay was also part of the winning team at the SA High Schools’ inter-provincial tournament, where he not only secured the individual title but also helped the KZN A team win by an incredible 87 shots, beating defending champions Gauteng Noord by 87 shots after four rounds.

McKay had an incredible last round going 4 under par in the final six holes, which included an eagle on the 18th from off the green to shoot 67 and beat team mate James Kennedy by one shot.

He has now been selected for the SA Schools side (which includes the North’s James Kennedy and Luke Mayo) to play the country’s top golfing fraternity, TUKS University.

“It’s a huge honour to be selected for the SA Schools team. It’s going to be a huge test of our mettle but I’m confident the teams abilities,” he said.

This year has been a watershed for McKay, who romped to victory KZN U23 Stroke Play tournament, punching well above his weight and winning the North Coast Open.

The future of golf looks promising judging by the calibre of the 15-year-old. “Whenever I watch golf on TV I dream of being there, I imagine being on all the major tours and ultimately I would love to turn pro,” he said. Judging by his impressive performances, you’d be hard pressed to deny the youngster.