Ernie Els, Retief Goosen and Gary Player all represented their country as great golfing legends. Shaun Jones (16) may be young, but he is fast on his way to becoming a golfing legend among great names.
This Grade 10 pupil from Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge was one of three juniors chosen to represent the South African Golf Association (SAGA) in the Nomads/Imperial Auto MFC Tournament at the Champagne Sports Resort in the Drakensberg on 21 May. Jones explained that the tournament did not have winners, but that he did his best in the first round with a score of 67.
Jones has an impressive handicap of a plus one. This means that is one better than a scratch player. “I basically have to get a one under par at every competition,” explained Jones. This young boy, smartly dressed in golf pants and a polo shirt. Looks ready to yet again practise at his course of choice, Ruimsig Country Club. “I already had a love for golf when I was eight months old. I would swing around my plastic golf clubs while crawling,” joked Jones.
He started playing in tournaments when he was only six years old. Jones represented South Africa in the USA Kids World Golf Championships when he was nine years old. He said that this course in North Carolina is his favourite course. Jones now plays for his school’s first golf team. “I also played cricket, but gave it up so that I can focus more on golf,” said Jones.
Jones has become a regular at the Ruimsig Country Club as he practises six times a week. “I come after school and play till it gets dark.” The future is certainly bright for this golfer as he wants to study in the USA while pursuing a professional career in golf. “I would advise young golfers to get the right equipment and good coaching before you start playing. Even if you do not win a game just keep it up,” concluded Jones.
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