By FELIX MALUNGA –
SIXTY Zambian junior golfers attended high-level coaching clinics conducted by South African expert, Karl Haessler in Lusaka and Kitwe.
Haessler, who jetted into Zambia last Sunday, held his first clinic at Lusaka Golf Club on Monday and Tuesday where 40 budding players from Monze, Mazabuka, Kabwe, Chilanga, Chainama Hills and the host club participated.
Local professionals Patrick Mwendapole, Steve Mbewe and Mohamed Zulu assisted Haessler during the two-day programme.
The Chilanga duo of Patrick Mwendapole Jnr and Lucas Muyunda were identified as juniors with massive potential and the Zambia Junior Golf Association (ZJGA) donated full golf sets to the duo.
Haessler shifted to Kitwe on Wednesday where 20 juniors from Chila, Nchanga, Ndola, Chibuluma and hosts, Nkana Golf Club attended the clinic which closed yesterday.
Nkana professional golfer, Beza Daka assisted the South African expert.
ZJGA director, Aloysius Phiri said Haessler drilled the players in short game (shots around the greens) and putting.
Phiri said in an interview in Kitwe yesterday that Haessler was impressed with local talent available but emphasised on the need to harness it.
The ZJGA director said Haessler would return in April next year with a colleague for a two-week training programme.
Phiri paid tribute to Chibuluma Mines Plc, Indeni Oil Refinery, Southern Sun Ridgeway International and Africa Golf Confederation president, Joe Malanji for the support they rendered to ZJGA’s programmes.