International News
Teen Kiwi Golfer Breaks Tiger’s Record
Wednesday, 27 August 2008
New Zealand may be better known for rugby and sailing, but 18-year-old golfer Danny Lee has earned the country a new spot in golf's record books.
Danny Lee, who was born in South Korea and lives in Rotorua, is the new US Amateur Golf Champion. He has put himself into the record books by becoming the youngest champion in history, over six months younger than Tiger Woods was when he won the title in 1994.
Lee has been playing golf since he was eight years old, and practices around 40 hours per week. His win in the US Amateur competition gives him an exemption to play in next year's US Masters and US Open tournaments, as long as he remains an amateur. With no plans to turn pro in the coming year, Lee is looking forward to participating in those events.
While New Zealand may not be famous for its golf traditions, the game is widely enjoyed around the country. There are a large number of golf courses near all of the main cities, and many have affordable green fees that make it easy to take up the game.
New Zealand also hosts a professional tournament that attracts international golfers. The New Zealand Open has a 100-year history and is now played at a new course in Queenstown, called The Hills. No doubt they'll be hoping that Danny Lee makes an appearance at next year's tournament.
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