2 May 2014
South Africa claimed their 16th successive All-Africa Junior Golf Championship title in Lusaka on Thursday after dominating the prestigious team event.
The four-man junior squad stretched an almost unassailable 21-shot lead after three rounds at the Chainama Hills Golf Club to a 35-stroke victory over Zimbabwe.
Defending the title, South Africa combined for a final round of 216 to end the week on a winning score of 873, while last year’s silver medallists, Zimbabwe, wrapped up the runner-up spot and a trip to the Toyota Junior Golf World Cup in Japan on 908, with a final round of 230.
South African team manager Kevin Stone said the team was delighted to uphold the country’s proud history in the event.
“Defending a title is always special, but I think this one will stick with the boys for a long time,” the former professional said.
“The course was very challenging and all the participating countries stepped it up in a big way after the president of the Africa Golf Confederation, Ambassador Joe Malangi, made the announcement about the runners-up going to Japan.
“We knew we would be under pressure and our opponents didn’t disappoint. The team showed incredible grit and determination and I am incredibly proud of the team.”
He concluded: “Each player delivered their best effort and the team played well as a unit. I believe the experience gained in playing against some of the best players from countries around Africa will be invaluable. We became a very strong side as the championship progressed and created some wonderful memories to build on in the future.”
It would have taken a mammoth effort from Zimbabwe to close the gap, but still the South Africans refused to even give an inch in the final round.
Western Province’s Altin van der Merwe fired a two-under-par 70 – his best round of the week – while Hennie du Plessis from Limpopo added a 75 to the team’s tally.
Southern Cape’s Jovan Rebula fired a 71, also his lowest effort in the championship, and the round that carried him to the top of the Individual Standings.
Ekurhuleni’s Kyle McClatchie carded a non-counting 77.
Stuart Krog, who once again set the tone for Zimbabwe with a 75, was supported by Kieron Vincent, who carded a 76 and Justin Kersten, who signed for a 79. Jack Allard posted a non-counting 81.
Meanwhile, Zambia delivered a powerful message when the side once again claimed third on 923.
Peter Munyinya led the way with a 76, while Kelvin Chibuye posted an 80 and Gabriel Chibale carded an 81 for a final round 237. Charles Shalubobya signed for a non- counting 85.
Reunion, helped by a 75 from Julien Sale and 80s from Robin Baudry and Alexandre Rajerinera, closed with a 235 to hold on to fourth on 931, finishing 11 shots ahead of Uganda.
SAinfo reporter
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