Local golfer to represent SA at Special Olympics

“Let me win, or let me at least be brave in the attempt.”

These are the words that Joshua Trollip hears echoing in his head, every time he strolls out onto a golf course.

The 22-year-old is one of four South Africans chosen to play in the Special Olympics Invitational World Golf Cup 2014, from August 2 until August 7 in Denmark.

Founded in the United States of America the Special Olympics is for athletes with mental and intellectual impairments.

Joshua, who towers over most with his 1,9m frame, was born at 34 weeks and diagnosed with foetal alcohol syndrome.

His father Graeme, also a golfer, said the part of Joshua’s brain that deals with figurative and abstract thought did not fully develop, leaving him with the reading and writing ability of a grade four pupil.

“On the positive side, Joshua does not get bored with routine and he can practice hitting golf balls for hours on end. On the negative side, he cannot calculate the distances to the flag and can often make wrong club selections. Joshua cannot adjust properly for the wind, weather conditions, altitude and slopes. He has trouble with his alignment and often gets confused with his left and right sides. Sometimes, he battles to visualise exactly what he must do, especially on new courses.”

Despite this Joshua is a level five golfer with a handicap of nine and he says he is “just like everyone else”.

“When I saw Tiger Woods play golf, I was eight years old and started learning immediately. I struggled a bit in the beginning but now I play three times a week at the Umhlali Country Club. Representing my country makes me feel proud.”

During his interview Joshua seemed shy and reserved. But as soon as he had a golf club in his hands, his face split into in a smile that lasted as long as he swung a few practise shots.

“Golf is a frustrating game but I refuse to give up. I will not.”

Graeme said watching his son play for his country is incredible.

“Golf is in our family but Josh is the first to take it this far. We are so proud of him.”