Meet Kayle Wykes, a young third year, University of Johannesburg (UJ) student and golfer who turned professional recently. Born and raised in Riverlea, Johannesburg, Wykes is quickly making a name for himself on the greens, proving that passion, persistence, and a healthy dose of patience are the true keys to success in the sport.
His journey into the sport began at the tender age of five. “I saw my father hitting golf balls at the range and then picked up his clubs,” he recalls. “It just felt really good to make contact, so I continued to go and play with him.” This early exposure, thanks to a family full of golf enthusiasts, laid the foundation for a promising career. He began competing in his first tournament at the age of seven.
The grind and the growth
Golf, as he readily admits, is a sport that demands patience. “It’s a very difficult sport, and even when you practice, the results aren’t always immediate,” he explains. This understanding is crucial for a player who, despite having only played in 3 out of 6 scheduled events, is currently ranked 30th on the Big Easy Tour and is unranked on the Sunshine Tour.
Wykes’ commitment to improvement extends beyond the course. Recently, he’s taken to the gym, finding enjoyment in the physical conditioning that complements his golf game. When not honing his swing or hitting the weights, he unwinds with a lively game of 5-a-side indoor football at Marks Park, a fun activity shared with family outside of his university studies and golf commitments. He is currently pursuing a Batchelor of Arts degree in Politics, Economics and Technology (PET) at UJ, drawn to its diverse modules and modern, technology-focused aspects.
Inspiration and aspirations
He finds inspiration close to home, citing friends like Nikhil Rama and Dylan Naidoo as fellow players of colour who are “doing extremely well in golf.” On the professional circuit, his idol is none other than the world’s number one, Scottie Scheffler. “Scottie is No.1 in the world for a reason, and I love his humble demeanour,” he states, highlighting a desire for not just on-course success but also personal character.
His career has already seen him compete in some of South Africa’s most prestigious events, including the SA Open at Durban Country Club and the Joburg Open at Houghton Golf Club. Asked what sets top players apart, he emphasizes consistency and the ability to pull off more difficult shots.
The mental game and future dreams
Golf, for him, is a rollercoaster of emotions. “Golf has its days where you’re on top of the world and others where you can’t see yourself getting out of a hole,” he thinks. Yet, it’s the sport’s magnetic pull that keeps him coming back, confirming its status as a fun sport.
Among the many facets of the game, he believes mental toughness is paramount. “Being such a difficult sport, you’ll never play a perfect round, and mistakes are bound to happen,” he explains. “But it’s how you bounce back from those mistakes. Sometimes, when things are going well too, it requires great mental strength to stay in the moment and not get ahead of yourself.”
Currently, Wykes gets support from the Papwa Segolum class, a vital support system that assists with entry fees and monthly stipends, crucial for a player constantly traveling across Africa. Looking ahead, his dream sponsorship is with Titleist. “I’ve always enjoyed playing their golf ball and clubs,” he shares, showcasing a clear preference for a brand synonymous with quality in the golf world.
This young talent, who calls CMR Golf Club in Maraisburg his home course, is one of the emerging golfers of colour to look out for in years to come. With his drive, talent, and grounded perspective, he’s undoubtedly a name to watch on the South African golf scene for years to come.
UJ Sport does not offer golf as one of its 11 offerings. However, Wykes hopes to get funding from either UJ or other brands who wish to propel his success academically and in various competitions on the golf course.
The University of Johannesburg has a number of students who play sports not offered by the institution’s Sport Division. Some of the most recent, known students include Keabetswe Masango, a roller-skater who represented South Africa in international roller-skating competitions in Argentina, Europe countries and Egypt. Others include two-time Olympian, Caitlin Rooskrantz who has carried the SA and UJ flags with her in various international gymnastics events and World Cups.
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