Fifteen-year-old Shaka Kariisa, son of Next Media CEO and avid golfer Kin Kariisa, is making headlines with his rapid improvement at the BSI Junior Golf Academy in Johannesburg.
Shaka’s journey, from an initial score in the 90s in January to a remarkable 3-under-par 69 in October, reflects the transformative training approach he has received at the Balderstone Sports Institute, which combines high-level golf coaching with academics.
Shaka joined BSI in January, taking his first competitive steps with scores of 90 and 88.
Just ten months later, he delivered an impressive performance on the Royal Johannesburg West Course, securing his first Junior Academy Medal win with a score of 69.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Shaka’s performance speaks to a family legacy in golf.
Kin Kariisa is considered one of Uganda’s top corporate golfers and has often credited golf with teaching him resilience and focus.
Shaka, in turn, is bringing the same passion and dedication to the sport, sharing that he maintained a calm mindset throughout the tournament, saying, “I tried to play as relaxed as possible throughout.”
“I’ve been working on a couple of things since I joined the Academy, and I’m glad the work is already paying off,” Shaka added, speaking shortly after the tournament.
In his latest performance, Shaka’s statistical improvements also stood out, recording eight drives in play, 13 greens in regulation, 30 putts, and a scramble score of four.
This reveals his progress in key areas of the game, from accuracy in his drives to controlled putting, marking significant strides since his early days at the academy.
Kin Kariisa couldn’t contain his pride after his son’s performance, sharing his excitement on social media.
He tweeted, “Shaka Skaka… solid 69 gross at Royal Johannesburg… What a player. Proud of you, son.”
This is only the start for what promises to be a successful golfing career for Shaka Kariisa.
