Zingela wins 18th cap

The head coach for the SA Golf Development Board (SAGDB) in Eastern Province, Mzuyanda Zingela, has been chosen to represent his province at the upcoming inter-provincial tournament (IPT) in September. This is the 18th time that Zingela will be playing in this event.

This is also the third successive year that Zingela has been picked, after missing out on the 2006 tournament.

"This selection means a lot to me, especially after being left out in 2006," he says. "I made a vow to myself that I want to be back in the team the very next year because there was talk that I was over the hill, that I was too old and had to make way for the youngsters. So to be in the team for the last three years is very satisfying."

Zingela was born in the Walmer location near Port Elizabeth, where rugby was the only sport played by the children. However, he snuck onto the nearby Walmer Country Club course one afternoon and after playing a few holes, the golf bug bit.

He says that the IPT is a very enjoyable event for him, as he relishes the competition and seeing the players he has made friends with over the years.

"My best memory is undoubtedly my first IPT, where I got to play against some of the top golfers in the country," he says. "Playing in the A section, I won 3 of my 4 singles matches, beating Sammy Daniels, Des Terblanche and S Kader."

Zingela says that his success as a provincial player has also had a very positive effect on the learners he coaches. They have been very enthusiastic about his selection and have asked a number of questions about the tournament.

"They tell me often that in a few years time I will have to beat them to make the team," he laughs. "I also feel I gain a lot of respect from them as they know they are being coached by a provincial player. They are forever challenging me when we practice - competing for distance, or having chipping and putting competitions."