A fun and vibrant experience was enjoyed by all who visited the Kids Interactive Zone at the recent ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open.
The zone was a hive of activity from Thursday to Sunday, with kids visiting from near and far to be part of the action.
The baby farm animals were a hit each day, along with the midday bubble shows that had the little ones jumping for joy.
An array of junior golf activities were provided in the activity line-up – including putting, chipping, driving and even a golfing dartboard challenge – with prizes and giveaways available for anyone willing to give golf a go.
A vibrant atmosphere was created with tunes pumping from the jukebox and karaoke machine all day and a constant stream of laughter emanating from the jumping castle throughout the tournament.
Local MyGolfers were lucky enough to participate in MyGolf clinics throughout the week, meeting the pros and having a chance to practice on the range with PGA professionals.
Minjee Lee was the star of Tuesday’s clinic, even filming her amazing shots and interactions with the kids for Channel Ten’s Totally Wild.
Another 30 of Adelaide’s junior golfers had the chance to meet tour stars Aditi Ashok and Amelia Lewis on the Wednesday, the pair impressing with trick shots and powerful drives as the kids watched in awe.
PGA professionals Christian Hamilton and Susie Mathews then provided expert tips for the juniors as they had a go themselves.
On Thursday and Friday we welcomed primary school students from Lockleys, Woodcroft, St Francis and St Dominic’s to the event, along with students from Ocean View College, and the feedback was nothing but positive.
Many first-time golfers couldn’t wipe the smiles from their faces when meeting the players, with some lucky enough to get a high-five or keep a ball!
At the weekend, the immensely popular giant bubble show arrived in the zone and kids swarmed from all corners of the course to get a glimpse of the magic and catch those bubbles before they disappeared!
Celine Herbin and Katie Burnett were the stars of Saturday’s MyGolf clinic for the participants from across the state at the MyGolf sessions. Before providing signatures for everyone involved, the players showed their amazing skills with a club in front of their enthralled audience. PGA professional Duard Nel then provided coaching for the kids, some even challenging their mums in the Swing Fit clinic next door!
A MyGolf Girls clinic was introduced on Sunday. Thirteen beginner girls had the chance to ‘come and try’ golf and meet tour players Sarah Kemp and Kassidy Teare to talk about their introduction to the sport. Susie Mathews then delivered a fantastic beginner experience for the girls.
Another 12 lucky MyGolfers from Mt Osmond, Oakbank, Glenelg and Kooyonga golf clubs had the chance to high-five winner Jin Young Ko as she made her way to the podium and retrieve the Patricia Bridges Bowl as tournament champion. The kids even had a photo with the champ after the formalities.
Overall, the zone was a bundle of fun and joy for all involved – and we look to provide an even bigger and brighter development for next year!