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Youth Interactive Writer

18-year-old golfer Vincent Chidambazina hopes to someday have his name carved on walls of the hall of fame.

Chidambazina, who started playing golf at the age of eight, said his journey to the course has been no walk in the park.

In an interview the Chimanimani lad, who boasts a well decorated display of trophies, said his inspiration was drawn from a relative and since then he has been determined to pursue golf.

Chidambazina said he wants to be like Tiger Woods.

“To start golf I was actually inspired by Timothy Mdhluli, a relative who used to play the sport very well.”

“It was then people of Chimanimani started calling me Tiger Woods who is an elite golfer. This actually moved me to practise even harder,” he said.

Chidambazina, who is from a less privileged background, commended his family for the support saying it has made him overcome certain hurdles.

“The family cannot really afford some of the costs that come with the sport yet they are always trying to assist and I appreciate everything they do for me.

“Despite circumstances my family has been my pillar of hope and strength, their belief assures me of victory,” he said.

Struggling to strike a balance between golf and school, Chidambazina admittedly confirmed it is not an easy road and he will continue until he gains ground.

“Of course it is difficult to balance golf and school but it is doable. School has been a very big challenge to me, I am just happy that I am overcoming and I hope to excel.

“I have been facing challenges including course management, swing analysis and a strong mindset but, I am getting better.

“There are also financial challenges related to the game of golf, however, I am not throwing my stick as yet,” he said.

Chidambazina recalled his favourite golfing moments, reliving the adrenaline that kicks in as one gets to the last hole.

“My favourite moment is when you are on the last hole trying to make the last shot of the tournament to win.

“There is that pressure that comes to your head which you have to overcome. It is the relief that comes from overcoming when you close in and take that perfect shot,” he said.

He said the sport had groomed him and instilled a sense of discipline within him.

“Golf has taught me so many things I might not have learned had I not been playing. I have learnt discipline, respect and sportsmanship.

“This has helped me to stay away from drug and substance abuse. My mind is always preoccupied and I am always thinking of ways to keep my mind busy,” he said.

The lad seeks to pursue golf and soar to great heights at international level.

“Golf is actually a sport I would like to pursue until I become a professional. I see myself in bigger competitions. For now, I am working on becoming better,” he stressed.