Pure magic from Kyle on the Big Easy Tour
In August, he was one of just three South Africans to qualify for the US Amateur Championship in California
By Lali Stander
Ekurhuleni amateur Kyle McClatchie showcased his future potential with a runaway seven-shot victory on the Big Easy Tour last year.
Just two weeks ago, the 20-year-old rising star closed out a top 12 finish in the BMW SA Open at Glendower Golf Club, but if anyone still had their doubts, the class act in the making put all reservations to bed with a seven-stroke triumph on 25-under-par 263 in the Gauteng North Open, on Sunday.
McClatchie carded an opening round 65 and second round 72 at Waterkloof Golf Club to start the final 36 holes four strokes behind local hope, James du Preez.
An eight-under-par 64 boosted the GolfRSA National Squad player to 15 under. He only led by a slender shot heading into the final round, but he never gave the chasing pack a chance as he raced to the finish line with a flawless 10 under 62.
His final two rounds featured a lone bogey, 15 birdies and a pair of eagles. The 62 was his lowest tournament round ever, while the 263 was his lowest 72-hole career total.
The country’s top-ranked player in the World Amateur Golf Rankings said it came down to mindset.
“I told my dad after the second round that I was shooting two flawless rounds on Sunday,” said the Serengeti golfer. “I made 12 birdies and an eagle in the first two rounds, but I dropped too many shots. The birdies were there for the taking; I just needed to keep the card clean.”
During the GolfRSA National Squad Tour to the United Kingdom last year, the Wanna Be A Champion Academy golfer became only the fourth South African to lift the English Men’s Amateur Stroke Play title.
In August, he was one of just three South Africans to qualify for the US Amateur Championship in California and the only local lad to reach the match play stage.
Throughout the season, his biggest goal was to reach a greater level of consistency and the Serengeti golfer is happy with how his game has progressed.
“My overall game is really solid, especially the short irons, wedges and putter. It’s great to set yourself goals and achieve them. “I’m very happy with the advances I’ve made and really pleased to finish in the winners’ circle again.”
