Three SAGDB players to compete in IPT

The u/18 inter-provincial tournament (IPT) is the top even for junior golfers in South Africa. Every year, the SA Junior Golf Foundation (SAJGF) holds the compeition to bring together the most talented youngsters from around the country.

This year, as a sign of the growing strength of golf development around the country, three players from the ranks of the SA Golf Development Board (SAGDB) have been chosen to compete for their respective provinces. Sello Lebeko from the Free State, Phiwakahle Mkhoma from KwaZulu-Natal and Odwa Ngwane from Border have been chosen for their teams based on their positions on their provincial orders of merit.

"It's wonderful to see our young players receiving this kind of recognition," says SAGDB managing executive Ken Viljoen. “We really wish them all well as they prepare for this event and we hope they will do themselves proud."

Sello is currently a member of Schoeman Park GC in Bloemfontein, where be plays off a two handicap. At just 16-years old, he has become one of the SAGDB’s most promising players and his progress is being closely watched.

17-year old Phiwakahle has also earned a great deal of recognition recently. The youngster from Port Shepstone has been a consistent performer in Foundation tournaments in KZN. He is currently playing off a scratch handicap.

Odwa has been one of the Border programme's top achievers for a number of years and his recognition at this level is well-deserved. He is a member of King Golf Club in King William's Town and plays off a two handicap.

"All the hard work, dedication and commitment not only from the players but also from our coaches is starting to bear well-earned rewards," Viljoen says.

In a further victory for golf development, former SAGDB player and current Ernie Els & Fancourt Foundation member Fezekile Kana has earned selection for the Eastern Province team for the event.