Young golfers show potential in ‘drive, chip and putt’ championship at HKGTA’s Jack Nicklaus Academy of Golf
Division winners receive a year’s training at the Academy and become members of the academy team
Junior golf in Hong Kong got another boost with the launch of a “drive, chip and putt” championship to give youngsters the chance to test themselves against their peers.
The late-May event was organised by the Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy (HKGTA) at its impressive layout in Sai Kung, and there was a sense of excitement – combined with pre-competition nerves – as the youngsters warmed up with a few practice swings and got the feel of the greens.
The two-day contest was open to all Hong Kong residents aged six to 15. Players were divided into age groups, inspired by the knowledge that the winners in each division would receive a year’s training from professional coaches at the HKGTA’s Jack Nicklaus Academy of Golf – valued at over HK$100,000 – and become members of the academy team.
For all other competitors there were souvenir packages and certificates. This was in line with the purpose of promoting participation in sports, foster local talent, and encourage young golfers to reach their potential.
One of the stand-out performers on the day was 14-year-old Lau Hoi-ki, a pupil at ISF Academy in Cyberport, who was champion in the category for girls aged nine to 15, and took the prize for longest drive in her group.