Golf
Kallis has the golden touch
2011-07-27 20:59
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Jacques Kallis (Gallo Images)
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Knysna - Jacques Kallis could not buy a putt during regulation play at the Vodacom Origins of Golf tournament at Simola Golf Estate on Wednesday, but when the occasion demanded genius, the South African star all-rounder stepped up to the plate.
In a three-way charity putting competition against fellow Protea Mark Boucher and former SA cricketer Barry Richards, Kallis put his colleagues to shame.
In front of an enthusiastic crowd surrounding the putting green, the three celebrated cricketers faced five putts each - ranging from one metre to five metres and worth a hefty R10 000 a metre.
The world's top-ranked Test batsman nailed a one metre, a two metre and a brilliant five metre rocket, raising R8 000 for the for the Birdies for Kiddies campaign against the R20 000 efforts of the feisty wicket keeper and seasoned veteran.
"I certainly didn't have a great day today," laughed a grinning Kallis. "I didn't strike it well. Actually, I think I caught everything fat, but I'm going to blame the wet conditions.
"But when it really counted, I managed to find a couple of putts. It didn't matter too much out on there on the golf course, but when it's for a cause like this, the competitive nature kicks in."
All professionals and amateurs campaigning in this year's Origins of Golf series have the chance to change the world, with Vodacom donating R500 to selected charities for every birdie made.
"Barry, Mark and myself were given an unique chance to add to the pot," Kallis explained.
"I'm just glad I found my putting stroke when it counted, sunk a few and thankfully contribute something for the kids."
Boucher, appropriately impressed by his playing partner's concealed talent, said he is rethinking their strategy for Thursday's second round.
"I have to thank him for that one par putt, but I had to carry him for 17 holes, so I think we will have to up the stakes to get him going," he joked.
"I think it's going to take a couple of cash bets with the guys tomorrow and playing for some proper money to get him to perform. I'm sure we'll do a lot better."
To date, the Origins of Golf pro's, amateurs and celebrities have contributed R646 500 and R314 000 at Pretoria Country Club and Arabella respectively.
Jacques Kallis, Mark Boucher and Barry Richards (File)