The City of Canada Bay’s Barnwell Park Golf Club is home to a nine year old pint-sized prodigy who’s taking the golfing world by storm.
“We are incredibly proud of Jonathan Hong, a young star who is hitting golf milestones years ahead of elite world champions,” City of Canada Bay Mayor Angelo Tsirekas said.
After an incredible series of rounds Jonathan is now a “scratch” player, a remarkable feat for any professional golfer.
A scratch player typically shoots at or better than par. Golfing legends Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Australian Jason Day all hit scratch at age 13.
Jonathan’s coach, Chris Willard, is confident Jonathan is the youngest player in the history of the game to achieve a scratch handicap.
“I can confidently say that Jonathan is one of the best players in the world,” Willard said. “He’s achieving incredible feats for any professional player, regardless of age.”
“He was the youngest golfer to ever play the Major Pennants and recently won the men’s open A Grade Match Play Championships.”
“He’s incredibly dedicated and has a strong work ethic. He trains around 50 hours a week chasing his dream to compete against icons like Tiger Woods.”
Jonathan has even caught the attention of Australian legend Greg Norman, who has admitted to being “impressed” by the young golfer.
“Jonathan’s talent is a testament to the wonderful facilities, employees and people we have in the City of Canada Bay,” Mayor Tsirekas said.
“We are extremely proud of him and have no doubt he will continue to make us proud competing on the world stage.”
