Moorosi Tsiane
Nine-year-old golf sensation, Agib Hughes, won the US Kids Europe/Malaysia Qualifying Tournament held at Bronkhorstspruit Golf Club in Mpumalanga from 25-26 October.
Hughes beat competitors from Swaziland, Zimbabwe and South African to win the tournament, adding to his other titles which include the Greg Norman Golf Foundation, Bellini Championship, Invarril Championship and Saint the Gallip Championship he won in Australia early this year.
The excited youngster told the Sunday Express that he was very happy to emerge victorious in Mpumalanga, while also revealing his ambition to become a professional golfer.
“It felt very good to beat the other kids from different countries, and win the competition. I will keep on working hard to make sure I eventually fulfill my dream of becoming a professional golfer,” he said.
Hughes, who said his role-models include American golfer Tiger Woods and Adam Scott of Australia, told the Sunday Express his love for the sport started when he was only two years of age.
“I started playing golf at the age of two and I have never looked back,” Hughes said.
After winning in Mpumalanga last weekend, Hughes qualified for the main tournament to be held in December and May next year in Scotland, but unfortunately, he would not be going due to lack of funds.
“I’m working so hard to become a professional golfer and based on what I have achieved so far, and how I am enjoying the sport, I don’t think I am far from achieving my dream.”
Hughes further said he started taking part in big tournaments in 2011.
“Since then, I have been playing in different competitions in Africa and Europe, which has helped build my confidence.
“I have played in Sudan, Congo, Zambia, and Australia over the past few months and grown from tournament to tournament.”
Asked how he has managed to cope considering his age, Hughes said his determination to succeed had seen him overcome the many challenges he has faced.
“Playing golf is not easy, especially since I also have schoolwork to take care of. But I have managed to make it because of sheer determination; it really feels good to win such tournaments because that is where I will get to be known and make my name.
“I travel a lot and have only been in Lesotho for three months and have a very good mentor in Motlalentoa Moloi, who has been helping me a lot to improve my game.”
Moloi, who is a professional golfer, told the Sunday Express that Hughes had the potential to become a major success in the sport.
“He is a very good player for his age, and can only get better as he grows older,” Moloi said.
“Golf is one of the most difficult sports to play and I really feel honoured to be involved with such a talented kid.”
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