Great balls a-flying: Seven-year-old Gofaone Mohurutshe eyes next golfing challenge

Kimberley’s golf prodigy

CHILDREN are full of energy – boundless, sometimes exhausting, and often inspiring. Seven-year-old Gofaone Mohurutshe is one such child, but she pairs that energy with a rare focus and skill.

Gofaone is no ordinary child – she is a golf prodigy.

Now the term “prodigy” can be tossed around without much thought as to its meaning, especially by an overzealous parent. However, in young Gofaone’s case, the label seems to be merited.

Her passion for the sport is evident in every swing. According to her father, Tshepo Molusi, “From the moment she picked up a golf club, the game became her passion.”

Molusi says that Gofaone practised tirelessly, often spending hours on the driving range. When she learned about the SA Kids Junior Golf Championship at Dainfern Golf Estate in Johannesburg, her excitement bubbled over.

“She envisioned herself on that grand stage,” Molusi said, “competing against the best young golfers in the country.”

Against the odds at Dainfern

The journey to Johannesburg was not straightforward.

“The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture were unable to assist us at such short notice, leaving the family disheartened and struggling to find a way to make it to Johannesburg,” Molusi explained.

Dr Pilane stepped in to help. “Dr Pilane came to our rescue when we told him the story. He was deeply moved by her determination and passion for golf. In an act of kindness, he and his team decided to invest in her journey by covering the costs of transportation,” Molusi said.

Arriving at the tournament, after an exhausting overnight drive, Gofaone faced additional challenges. There was no time to rest up and refresh. She had to hop off the bus and hop over to the tee box to start her round.

Additionally, she didn’t have a full set of clubs, having no driver and 3-wood.

“I struggled to hit the ball far like the other children,” Gofaone said. “I just had my pitching wedge, a seven-iron, and a putter.”

Her father served as coach and caddy, helping her make the most of the clubs she had.

“Every shot was hard,” she said. “I kept thinking about what my daddy told me. I was happy that he was next to me, to talk to me. We talked about what to do before each hit, because the other children could hit the ball far, so I had to try different shots. He said I mustn't give up, even when it was difficult.”

Her focus paid off. Gofaone fought her way to a second-place finish at the SA Kids Junior Champs.

“I was so happy, because it was really hard,” she said.

Gratitude to supporters

Molusi expressed his appreciation for those who supported their journey.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr Mutono (PhD) and his family for their generous hospitality during our visit. Not only did they graciously host us, but they also provided us with a ride in their car to explore the area, making our experience all the more enjoyable and convenient.

“Thank you once again for your generosity and support. Your actions embody the spirit of sportsmanship and community, and I am truly grateful to have encountered such kindness.”

Molusi also expressed his thanks to others who stepped up to help, even the parents of the opponents his daughter was playing against. "They shared some of their refreshments since, due to our rush to get to the tee, we could not arrange our own, and there were no refreshments available along the course.

"I truly appreciate your thoughtfulness in a moment when it was desperately needed,” he said.

He also mentioned that he was thankful to Northern Cape Sanitation Solutions for coming on board. "Their help made a huge difference," he said. "Because of what they did, we could just focus on playing our best golf."

Molusi said those who contributed but were not mentioned had not been forgotten.

"Even when it was tough, we kept going because we knew you believed in us. We’ll never forget what you did. Thank you for helping someone chase their dreams.”

Next stop: Junior Africa Challenge

After her Gauteng success, Gofaone is preparing for the Junior Africa Challenge, taking place August 18-22, 2025, at San Lameer Country Club on the KZN South Coast.

But there’s another challenge. The family faces costs beyond the entry fee of almost R4,000, including travel, accommodation, and meals over five days. Yet, inspired by Gofaone’s determination, they are inviting the Kimberley community to share in her journey.

To support her, the family will host a fund-raising braai at Pick n Pay Rhodesdene on Saturday from 10am, and they plan on continuing late into the afternoon. Also, in addition to this, those who wish to contribute privately can contact 079 621 6692 or 083 724 4963.

Just think, Kimberlites, If Gofaone can take on the odds and thrive with just three clubs at her disposal, imagine what she can achieve with a whole community behind her.