GOLF-CHAT: Mitchel Hampson – backing himself to keep career on track
He's having some back problems, caused by too much golf, he says, but is hoping to be in top health after the lockdown to resume his promising career.
Age? 17
Birthday? 25 December.
Second name? Gareth.
Nickname? Mitch.
ALSO READ: GOLF-CHAT: Mikhail van Brakel – strong views but keeps the fun flowing
Who introduced you to golf? My father, Gareth.
Which clubs have you been a member at? Scottburgh GC, Umdoni Park GC, Selborne Park GC.
Which was the first golf course you ever played at? Richmond GC.
Career highlights? Winning the South African U19 Interprovincial last year (B division).
Golf course you would love to play? St Andrew’s (Old Course).
The Old Course at St Andrew’s, 18th tee. (Photo Standrewslinks Wikipedia)
Schools attended? Scottburgh Primary School and Westville Boys’ High School.
If you could win any of the Majors, which one? The Open.
Most famous person you have met or played golf with? Tim Clark.
Holes in one? None.
Albatross? Yes, Umdoni’s 18th. Hit a kind of thinned 5-iron which just rolled and rolled, all the way home.
Dream fourball: Amateur – Jack Cubitt, Luke Cubitt and my dad, Gareth Hampson (just for entertainment purposes).
Favourite meal and drink? Braai. To drink, Coke … I’d better say that.
World Cup final, T20 cricket or rugby? Rugby.
Countries you have been to? USA and France.
Historical figure you would like to met? Tiger Woods.
Player you’d choose to hole a 6 foot putt to save your life? Amateur – Mikhail van Brakel; pro – Justin Thomas.
Luckiest shot that mattered? Chipping in from in front of the 2nd green at Oubaai to go about four in a game with Jack Cubitt against another province at the junior IPT last year.
One shot or round or moment you’d like to be able to take over? Tshwane Junior Open. Had been playing such good golf and blew out with an 83 in the first round. Next day came back with a 3-under.
Ever broken a club, what happened? Never.
Any injuries you’ve had to overcome? An inflamed lower back. Have had to have a few injections to get it sorted out.
Funniest thing you have ever experienced on golf course? Jack Cubitt’s reactions after he hits a bad shot.
What irritates you most in golf? Three-putting.
Best and worst advice received? Best – hit it hard; worst – go for everything you see.
Advice to anyone taking up the game? Have patience, it is key to success.
Tell us something about yourself not many people know? Not a fan of clowns, or heights. And long needles that go into your back.
What’s next for you? USA to play golf and study.
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