Learn a fun skill during Golf Month
Catherine Telfer, director and treasurer of SA Kids Golf, encourages parents to introduce their children to golf as the sport teaches children to work hard, be patient and keep trying even when they don't do so well. It also provides them with exercise and a chance to have fun.
“GOLF is the closest game to the game we call life. You get bad breaks from good shots; you get good breaks from bad shots – but you have to play the ball where it lies.” – Bobby Jones
May is Golf Month, a special celebration that was created just recently to encourage people who may not think they would like golf to give it a try and benefit from all the sport has to offer.
Durban Caxton Local Media spoke to Catherine Telfer, director and treasurer of SA Kids Golf, about the sport and the benefits of playing this sport, especially for children.
Also read: Golfers tee off for a good cause
Telfer said golf is a tough game to play. “Many may think that it is too difficult for children to play. But we couldn’t be more wrong! Golf is an amazing game for children to play as it teaches them so much about life.”
According to Telfer, golf instils discipline, diligence, patience and etiquette; teaches kids how to focus on the present (one shot at a time), and most importantly, instils the grit to pick themselves up after a poor round and keep trying.
“The earlier children start playing golf, the better, but only if they are enjoying it. As parents, we should encourage but not force it. And how amazing will it be when your child can confidently tee it up as an adult and do business on the golf course!” she said.
Speaking about SA Kids Golf, she shared that it is a non-profit organisation, established almost 20 years ago, that runs golf tournaments for children between the ages of five to 18 years.
“Children play within their same age groups at different courses every month. They tee off down the fairway, at an appropriate distance, so they can reach the green in two shots for a par four, for example. No standing on the tee box with Dad and staring miles down the fairway wondering how they will ever reach the green!
“Also, with SA Kids Golf tournaments, there are no complicated handicaps for the kids to get their heads around and no need to be a member of a golf club. With each child having a caddy, this can be a very special time spent out on the course with Dad or Mom to guide them,” she said.
Some health benefits of golf:
Golf can be good for your health and your heart. Walking an average course for a round of golf can be between 5 to 7km. If you walk 18 holes three to five times a week, you’ll get an optimal amount of endurance exercise for your heart. If you pull your clubs or carry them, you’ll burn even more calories each round and benefit even more.
Playing golf regularly can help a person:
– stay fit
– improve muscle tone and endurance
– lose weight and body fat
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