Montrose golfer shoots personal best at Wanderers
A year into his golfing journey, Julian Leaf-Wright is learning that the sport is about more than scores, with friendship and school spirit also making the experience special.
Taking part in Montrose Primary School’s annual golf day was about more than hitting a good shot for learner Julian Leaf-Wright. It was an opportunity to enjoy a sport he loves, spend time with friends and feel part of a school community that supports its learners.
Held at Wanderers Golf Club, the annual event brought together golfers, parents, teachers, learners and sponsors.
Read more: Montrose learner Julian Leaf-Wright hits personal best at Wanderers Golf Club
Julian was among the learners who joined the adults on the course, an experience he described as both fun and rewarding.
“I felt extremely privileged to take part in the annual Montrose Golf Day, and I was looking forward to having a fun day with my mates on the amazing Wanderers Golf Course,” he said.
Playing alongside adults and teachers did not make him nervous; instead, he enjoyed the experience, including watching teacher Ryan Stephenson hit what he described as ‘300m bombs’.
Julian’s day also produced some impressive personal milestones: having played golf for about a year, he shot a personal best of 83 and hit his longest drive of 263m. His interest in the sport began after watching the Nedbank Golf Challenge in 2025. Since then, he has taken his golfing seriously and continued working on his game.
The day was not without its challenges. Julian said his irons were not working well during the front nine, but he adjusted his approach by using his short irons more often. This helped him play easier shots onto the greens and improve his scores.
Despite the competitive element, Julian said the experience reminded him that golf should also be about enjoying the game. “Golf is a sport to enjoy and is more about being out there having fun with your friends, and you don’t always have to worry about your score on each hole but just have fun,” he said.
Also read: Golf day and calendar release helps Sandton SPCA raise funds to protect abandoned animals
Beyond his performance, Julian valued the opportunity to represent Montrose and be part of an event that brought different members of the school community together.
“As a learner, it was wonderful to feel part of the Montrose family, which is unique in that everyone has the school’s interests and success at heart: pupils, teachers, parents and our amazing sponsors.”
Looking ahead, Julian is already setting himself targets.
His next goal is to break 85 at his family’s golf tournament in December 2026, continuing to build on the progress he has made during his first year in the sport.
His experience at the Montrose Golf Day reflects how school sporting opportunities can give learners a chance to develop their skills, build relationships and create memories beyond the classroom.
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