Golf prodigy Lohmann leaves for Scotland

• By Michael Uugwanga

TOP young amateur golfer Charlie Lohmann has left for Scotland yesterday (07 July) to take part in the Royal and Ancient Golf  of St Andrews (R&A) Junior Open Championship that takes place from July 11 to 13 July, ahead of the 150 Open at St Andrews.

The junior golf competition is closely linked to the open and is always played on nearby course.

Speaking to Confidente before he left for Scotland, the looking excited Lohmann said he is not good shape after doing some training at the coast, of which could help him upper his game.

Lohmann is being coached by Jaco Van Reenen, general manager at Omeya Golf Club, some 30 km outside Windhoek.

“I am very fortunate and excited to be heading to the R&A Junior Open, sponsored by Rolex at Monifieth Links in Scotland, where I will be competing against other top 16- year-old golfers from around the world. My golf training has been directed to the local conditions in Scotland. I have recently played golf at the coast, in which windy conditions may be similar to that in Scotland. I have also worked with my coach, Jaco (Van Reenen), to make positive improvements to my game. It is always exciting and a privilege to play in International tournaments, whilst representing Namibia. My target will be to hold my nerve and enjoy every moment of playing at such a prestigious event.

 I am fortunate enough to be accompanied by my father and senior Namibian Golf Union members,” said Lohmann.

Lohmann is expected to play on Monday and Tuesday next week, but he will need to make the cut in order for him to play on Wednesday as well.

He idolises legendary golfer Tiger Woods, who is regarded as one of, if not the greatest golfer in the last 20 years or so.

 “I am scheduled to play on Monday 11th July and Tuesday 12th July. I am planning to make the cut and therefore hope to play on Wednesday (13), as well. The weekend after that, I will be watching “The Open”, at St Andrews, where I hope to see some golfing legends, including my favourite player, Tiger Woods.Upon my return home, I will continue training hard and preparing towards qualifying for the 2023 National squad,” said Lohmann.

Lohmann’s mother Jacqueline Lohman is extremely happy for her son’s progress, not only in golf but in school as well.

“I am extremely happy and proud, not only because of his golf but also academic wise,” she said.

Coach of Lohmann, Jaco Van Reenen said he is very proud to have groomed and mentored Lohmann.

“ I have been with him for a very long time. I will not go with him, but obviously as a coach I am very proud of him,” said Van Reenen.