23 August 2012
South African golf has a proud history, and the SA Golf Development Board (SAGDB) is working hard to unearth and support talented youngsters. A recent donation from Cobra Puma Golf will go a long way towards seeing this happen, says board technical director Grant Hepburn.
The equipment donation, worth R800 000, is made up of hybrids, woods and irons.
“This donation will go such a long way towards boosting our programme around the country,” Hepburn reckoned.
A hole-in-one
The SAGDB depends on donated equipment to help those unable to afford such items to learn and hone their craft. Cobras Puma Golf’s equipment boost is, in golf terms, a hole-in-one for the SAGDB.
“Our numbers keep growing, but while we have substantial equipment for the beginners and younger learners in the programme, our coaches are often faced with a tough task in finding the right size and length clubs for the older and more advanced learners,” explained Hepburn.
“The proper equipment is often not available in our stock, but the wrong equipment is very detrimental to the swing and it stunts the growth and development of our future stars.
‘A major step forward’
“So this donation will certainly boost our growth. To be able to distribute suitable equipment for the elite players in our programme across the country, is a major step forward for the SAGDB.”
Cobra Puma Golf general manager Deon Bakkes said he was delighted to find a source that could put the equipment to use.
“Since the stock had become obsolete, it was scheduled for destruction,” he explained. “But instead of destroying the clubs, they will be put to great use in the SAGDB programme.
‘Wonderful’
“It’s wonderful to know that in some small measure, Cobra Puma Golf has contributed to the foreseeable golf development in South Africa.
“We were thrilled to learn that the South African Golf Development Board can use these clubs for their elite players and we hope this helps them to reach the next level.”
SAGDB success
Since its inception, the SAGDB has coached over 17 000 youngsters, produced one senior national player and four players in the senior national squad, 25 senior provincial and under-23 players and 108 junior provincial players.
Over 1 500 players have participated in junior golf tournaments and 34 of its most talented players have been invited to join prestigious and recognised high performance centres such as the Ernie Els & Fancourt Foundation.
‘Thankful’
“The value of having the right equipment for our advanced learners cannot be underestimated and we are really thankful that Duncan Wood from the Ernie Els and Fancourt Foundation put Deon in touch with us when he was approached about this equipment,” said SAGDB managing director Ken Viljoen.
“We currently have elite players in 10 provinces and this equipment will give them the opportunity to excel and grow and take their games to the next level.”
SAinfo reporter
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