Northern Academy learner aims for golfing greatness
Gr 12 learner Rinao Makhado aims to become a professional golfer after excelling at the Nomads SA Girls Golf Championship.
POLOKWANE – Rinao Makhado, a dedicated Gr 12 learner at Northern Academy Secondary School, has set her sights on a professional career in golf following her standout performance at the recent Nomads South African Girls Golf Championship held at Sun City.
Representing Limpopo, Rinao competed in the silver division, achieving scores of 92, 92, and 89 across the tournament.
Reflecting on her experience, Rinao expressed her ambition to follow in the footsteps of her role model, golf legend Tiger Woods.
”It was an honour to represent both my province and school at a national level. The competition was fierce, and I learned valuable lessons from golfers across the different provinces. After matric, I want to pursue a degree in business management before diving into professional golf. My ultimate goal is to become the first female golfer from Limpopo to compete in major international championships.”
Acknowledging her father, Mpho Makhado, a golfer and businessman, Rinao credited him for introducing her to the sport.
“Born in Venda and raised in Polokwane since Gr 3, my father nurtured my passion by taking me to Polokwane Golf Club, where he patiently trained me and shared golfing techniques. His guidance has been instrumental in my achievements.”
Looking forward, Rinao hopes to inspire more young women in Limpopo to embrace golf.
“There are few female golfers in our province, and I would love to see more girls enjoying the sport. Golf has taught me discipline, etiquette, and self-confidence.”
With her focus now on completing matric, Rinao has temporarily paused her competitive schedule.
“I have decided to prioritise my studies as exams approach. I will resume participating in golf events next year.”
Principal Fred Romjin praised Rinao for her achievements, highlighting Northern Academy’s commitment to sports excellence.
“Rinao has brought pride to our school with her performance. She exemplifies dedication and achievement, and we congratulate her on her success.”
