Zamokuhle Nxasana is a talented golfer from Johannesburg, South Africa, who has been playing the sport since he was four years old. He is one of the stars of the 2013 documentary film The Short Game, which follows eight young golfers from around the world as they compete in the U.S. Kids Golf World Championship. Zama, as he is affectionately called, is known for his exuberant personality and his love for the game.
Zama’s Journey to Pinehurst
Zama started playing golf at the age of four, when his father, Sipho Nxasana, took him to a driving range. He soon fell in love with the sport and joined the South African Golf Development Board, a program that provides opportunities for underprivileged children to learn and play golf. Zama showed great potential and passion for the game, and his father supported him by buying him equipment and taking him to tournaments.
Zama qualified for the U.S. Kids Golf World Championship in 2011, when he was seven years old. He traveled to Pinehurst, North Carolina, where he competed against more than 1,500 golfers from 54 countries. He finished 43rd in his age group, but he was not discouraged by his result. He enjoyed meeting new friends and playing on different courses. He also had fun exploring the town and visiting a water park.
Zama returned to Pinehurst in 2012, determined to improve his performance. He practiced hard and worked on his mental game. He also received coaching from former professional golfer Gary Player, who gave him tips and encouragement. Zama was ranked eighth in the world in his age group when he competed in the 2012 championship. He played with confidence and skill, and improved his score by 15 strokes from the previous year. He finished 18th in his category and won the most improved award.
Zama’s Personality and Goals
Zama is not only a gifted golfer, but also a cheerful and friendly person. He is always smiling and laughing, and he makes friends easily with other golfers and spectators. He is not afraid to express his emotions, whether he is happy or sad. He is also humble and respectful of his opponents and mentors.
Zama loves golf because it challenges him and makes him happy. He does not play for fame or money, but for the joy of the game. He says that golf teaches him life lessons, such as patience, discipline, honesty, and perseverance. He also says that golf helps him cope with stress and problems at home or school.
Zama’s dream is to become a professional golfer and play on the PGA Tour. He also wants to represent South Africa in international competitions and inspire other children to pursue their dreams. He says that golf is not only a sport, but also a way of life.
Zama is an example of a young golfer who shines with joy. He shows that golf can be fun and rewarding for anyone who loves it and works hard at it. He also shows that golf can bring people together across cultures and backgrounds. Zama is a role model for other young golfers who want to follow their passion and achieve their goals.
According to The Cinemaholic, Zama is now 19 years old and still plays golf competitively. He has won several tournaments in South Africa and abroad, and he hopes to qualify for the European Tour soon. He is also studying business management at the University of Johannesburg. He remains close with his family and friends, and he continues to spread joy wherever he goes.