The Langebaan Country Estate’s Golf Academy is open to all ages, but their Junior Academy holds a special place in the heart of Max Birkenhead, the Head PGA Professional at the Estate.
Here, between 40 and 50 youngsters from all walks of life are introduced to the game and develop their golf skills and abilities. Children from disadvantaged communities (approximately half of those attending) are fully sponsored and enjoy the lessons in the rules and etiquette of golf, dress code, putting, chipping, iron play and woods for free (this includes lending them equipment).
The programme is already bearing fruit, with young players performing well in tournaments and some making regional and provincial teams.
Birkenhead, who has coached a number of top professional golfers, is passionate about this programme. Her stated aim for the Junior Golf Academy is to produce a “Major Winner” and as such, says Birkenhead, “we focus on golf’s FUNdamentals. These include swing, short game, putting, course management, the rules and etiquette.”
But she sees the spinoffs as just as important. “It’s not just great technique that the kids are learning here. Through the Academy I get a chance to share with them other important lessons – how to manage your emotions, how to set goals, resolve conflicts and communicate with others. These are life skills that are essential for success in any field. Golf is a sport that opens doors – whether these kids go on to join the pro circuit, play for fun, or use the sport as a networking tool in their future careers. It is also an outstanding vehicle for learning and practising values such as honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance and courtesy. That’s why I am so passionate about the Junior Golf Academy at the Langebaan Country Estate.”
Facilities at the Estate include an 18-hole Gary Player Design, Black Knight golf course, 9-hole mashie course, 9-hole pro put course, fully equipped driving range, short game area, plus swing and stroke analysis technology. The Estate recently opened “The Range” clubhouse at their driving range, which boasts numerous facilities including the “Golf Studio”. Here, in addition to the Junior Golf Academy, Birkenhead offers adults’ lessons, women’s clinics, corporate clinics and club custom fitting utilising either the outdoor grass tees or the state-of-the-art indoor facility incorporating the Flight Scope Launch Monitor and V1 Video. While The Range is primarily a golf practice facility, it is a great location for birthday parties, team builds, end of year functions or just a place to relax with a coffee, make use of the free Wi-Fi and enjoy a fantastic vibe and view.
The Junior Golf Academy runs during school term times and everyone is welcome – whether your child is just starting to learn how to play golf or whether they’re an experienced player looking to grow their skills. The cost is R400 for the term and it includes all golf balls and equipment used during this time.
For enquires or to enrol your child, contact Max Birkenhead: 072 563 3181 or max@lce.co.za.
