Clarke happy to give back to Alex golf
ALEXANDRA - Darren Clarke has always been passionate about South Africa, from early in his career when he was playing and winning here, to the time he always sets aside to take part in the annual Joburg Open golf development clinic.
Professional golfer Darren Clarke has always been passionate about South Africa.
He showed this passion early in his career when he was playing and winning here, and now, when he gives of his time at the annual Joburg Open golf development clinic.
The newly-appointed European Ryder Cup captain is the man in the spotlight at Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club this week for the ninth Joburg Open. But on the day before he teed off, Clarke showed he is just as comfortable on the Alexandra Driving Range, spending time with his fellow professionals teaching close to 100 disadvantaged children the basics of golf.
“That’s why we’re here because the game has been very good to us, and to give a little back is very important,” said Clarke. “From the age of nine I had every opportunity to go out and play as much as I wanted, and my parents supported me.”
He noted that children in Alex often did not have the opportunities he had himself. “So anytime they get a chance to hit some balls is even more special for them.”
Clarke said he was always impressed with the raw talent he sees at the clinics. “They’re all so keen and they listen well,” he said. “Sometimes we do clinics and the kids don’t really listen, but every time we come to South Africa they really listen to what you have to say and what you are teaching them.”
He added that the Sunshine Tour was working hard to make sure these children have opportunities to practice, because golf was a game that taught all aspects of life.
