19th IPT for Zingela

SAGDB head coach Mzuyanda Zingela, the veteran of the EP provincial team

The SA Golf Development Board’s head coach for Eastern Province, Mzuyanda Zingela, has enjoyed a formidable amateur golf career. The veteran of the game, who has also represented his country, was this year selected to represent his province for an incredible 19th appearance at the national inter-provincial tournament (IPT). Zingela earned selection through being placed 3rd on the provincial order of merit.

The soft-spoken Port Elizabeth resident was quick to put his longevity down to support from his family and friends. He also acknowledged the role his community plays.

“Although there are two black players in the EP team, what keeps me going is that I feel I am there to represent the players from the locations,” he said. “They look up to me as their representative.”

Zingela believes that the experience he has earned over the years will once again be invaluable when he takes to the fairways at this year’s event.

“As the IPT is a matchplay tournament, you definitely must have a few tricks up your sleeve,” he said. “You cannot rely on your opponent missing a long putt or chip. Another advantage is that the opposition think I am easy to beat because of my age!”

Zingela is also mindful of the importance of playing as a team.

“This is a team tournament, so the team comes first,” he said. “But every player still has to have good individual results to help the team. When you play foursomes, your partner cannot swing the club for you. I must at all times be on the ball as some of the players look up to me for advice.”

Despite the competitiveness of the event, Zingela never forgets the spirit of the game.

“The most important thing I have learnt over the years is that it does not cost a cent to smile and be polite to your opposition, even though you are out to annihilate them,” he said. “In that way you become friends – lifetime friends.”

The IPT will take place at the Pretoria Country Club from 20 to 24 September.