It has been a busy and fruitful year for the young Florida golfer, Cole Stevens. He recently participated in the Nomads National Order of Merit (NOoM) competition held at the Modderfontein Golf Club, where he lost in the play-off.
The 15 year old held the outright lead at three under par through 15 holes, but he followed a bogey at the 16th with a double bogey at the 17th to set the clubhouse target at an even-par 144, with a final round of 73.
Dylan Mostert sank successive birdies on the 16th and 17th holes, to close on par with Cole. Jayden Schaper only had to clutch-putt a birdie after he hit a tee shot down the middle of the 18th fairway, finishing it off with an outstanding approach into the green to force a tie. The trio returned to the 18th tee for another trip down the closing par four.
In the playoffs, Cole pulled his three-wood left into the trees, and unfortunately his putt for par shaved the hole. Schaper emerged victorious with Cole tied for second with Mostert.
With his long-term goal to become one of South Africa’s top golfers, Cole took advantage of the school holidays and participated in numerous tournaments. His objective was to hone his skills and put into practice what he learned from previous tournaments and from training.
Earlier this month, Cole participated in the Nomads Coastal (NOoM 2) competition at the St Francis Links Golf Course where he tied for 16th spot. He also participated in the Dimension Data U/15 Challenge in George where he finished the tournament in 20th position. He next took part in the Nomads SA Boys U/17 Championship with players two years older than himself at the Kingswood Golf Estate. There he managed to place in 57th position. All these competitions will add to his growing portfolio of experience.
Cole will be participating in the Tshwane Junior Open, which starts on 14 July at the Pretoria Country Club. He aims to improve on last year’s performance, when he finished in 30th position.
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