The City of Johannesburg has provided a significant platform for three budding golf talents at the prestigious Joburg Open International Golf Tournament.
The spotlight falls on the promising trio of sponsor invitees, including Karabo Mokoena, Jordan Duminy, and Tristin Galant.
Bongi Mokaba, the tournament promoter, said the City remains committed to creating opportunities for youngsters and promoting development and diversity.
“This is why we extended invites to three young and upcoming golfers to play in the 17th edition of the Joburg Open,” Mokaba said.
Mokoena, a Joburger who commenced his golf journey at the age of seven, faced initial challenges on the first day of the tournament but maintained optimism, acknowledging the mental fortitude required in such a high-pressure environment.
“I didn’t play my best, but I feel like mentally I did my best,” he said.
Expressing gratitude towards the municipality, Mokoena lauded its ongoing efforts to support black players, affirming the need for continuous encouragement.
“The City has been doing an amazing job for black players. I feel like they should keep doing what they are doing and encouraging us. They’re doing a great job, and we’re grateful for it.”
Galant, hailing from Cape Town, relished his debut in the Joburg Open, expressing eagerness to prove his worth and gratitude for the City’s valuable opportunity.
“I want to show the City that I deserve to be here. I will continue to do my best. Thank you, City of Joburg; this is a great opportunity for me,” he said, adding that he was looking forward to the second day of the tournament.
Duminy, representing Pinnacle Point Golf Club in Mossel Bay, faced a challenging course but remains hopeful for the upcoming rounds, emphasising the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
“A massive thank you to the City of Joburg. Those who would like to be in this position someday should keep practicing, keep going, and never give up. It’s not about how you go down; it’s about how you get up.”
Mokaba said the City’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and promoting inclusivity in the sport shines through these sponsorship initiatives.
“The City’s unwavering support for golf development continues to pave the way for a brighter future in the sport.”
As the tournament progresses, players who successfully navigate the cut will advance to the third round on Saturday, 25 November 2023, with the eventual champion to be crowned on Sunday, 26 November 2023.
The Joburg Open, a four-day event, holds distinction as a co-sanctioned tournament by the Sunshine Tour and the DP World Tour. The Executive Mayor, Cllr. Kabelo Gwamanda, inaugurated the annual tournament with the opening tee-shot at the verdant Houghton Golf Club on Thursday, 23 November 2023.
The event is open to spectators. Tickets are available for purchase on the Sunshine Tour website (https://quickbuy.mygolflife.co.za/sunshine-tour/2023-joburg-open)
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