First place in Oceania’s largest youth sports competition
Coach borrows a driving range and practices for just two weeks
Next goal: compete in the Special Olympics for people with developmental disabilities
A 12-year-old autistic boy in New Zealand has won a golf tournament just two weeks after learning to play.
Bailey Te’epa Tarau
Who lives in the small town of Tanetua, New Zealand, won the nine-hole golf tournament at the Jesfriams in the city of Tauranga, New Zealand, New Zealand media outlet Stuff reported on Wednesday. 스포츠토토 This comes just two weeks after he first picked up a golf club.
Held annually since 2004, the Jaspriams is one of the largest youth sports events in Oceania. It is only open to students aged 11 to 13.
“Bailey walked confidently from the tee box to the green,” said tournament organizer Jamie Trouton, “and with her excellent driver, she posted an incredible stableford score of 87 after three rounds.”
Bailey was introduced to golf by his teacher, Fetu Wiremu, 토토 who had coached him for years.
Fetu introduced Bailey to the sport after noticing his habit of swinging a golf club. He asked around and rented a driving range, and they worked out together for two weeks.
“Bailey, who has autism, wouldn’t talk to anyone,” Fetu said. “More importantly than winning a medal, she was able to talk to so many people after the race and be so confident. It’s really heartwarming.”
Bailey’s father said, “My son loves to play golf, so he doesn’t get upset when he makes a mistake,” adding, “He’s in love with the game now. I’m so proud of him.”
Bailey’s next goal is to compete in the Special Olympics, an international sports competition for people with developmental disabilities. New Zealand construction company Waiotahi Contractors is sponsoring his golf equipment.
“It’s been a dream of mine to win the tournament,” Bailey said in a post-match interview, adding, 스포츠토토링크 “It was so much fun.”