Official launch of golf development clinic by the Department of Correctional services

A golf development clinic was officially opened at the Potchefstroom Remand Detention Facility on Tuesday, 26 July 2022, by the Department of Correctional Services and the DCS National Golf Club Executive Committee.

Ashley Stuurman, Vice President of Golf Development, indicated that the department values the wellness of its members, which is why having days such as these contributes to a healthy lifestyle. “This week, our intention is to recruit golfers, as many of our participating golfers are on their exit point. This calls for us to encourage young people who will take the baton forward and keep the golf sport alive,” Stuurman said.

To officially launch the event, Thabo Thokolo, Regional Commissioner,  acknowledged and congratulated Banyana Banyana for the win of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). He emphasised that development goes hand in hand with attitude, mindset and preparedness otherwise you will be here for nothing if your attitude is not right. “I am a firm believer and subscribe to the philosophy that you are never too old to learn,” he said.

 He further encouraged the new beginners not to be dismayed if they don’t know how to swing the ball and so forth but instead should take courage that they are ready to be developed, affirmed RC Thokolo.

Addressing approximately 75 golf beginners from all six DCS regions countrywide, DCS Golf President Kgwadu Mohale explained that the purpose of the day was to teach and mentor interested members the basic techniques of golf. “Golf requires commitment, practice and passion to become a better and professional golfer,” he said. 

 “I hope and believe that the three days of training will be beneficial to all of us,” Mohale added. Furthermore, he encouraged members to continue practising the sport even on private occasions and not give up after this training.

During the day, members were taught the basic rules of golf and technics and later proceeded to the field where the real action took place. Members share their experiences after 4 hours of training, Busisiwe Shibambo, communication manager explained. One of the beginners Kenneth Letebele from the Klerksdorp management area said he was amazed at the details that are required in the sport. They learned different beginner techniques that will be applied for the duration of the training.