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Home / Personality of the week - Wilmari Woest: Driven by dreams, defined by victory

Personality of the week - Wilmari Woest: Driven by dreams, defined by victory

2024-03-14  Maurice Kambukwe

Personality of the week - Wilmari Woest: Driven by dreams, defined by victory

Q: How did you get into the sport of golf, and what sparked your interest in it?

A: Growing up, I spent a lot of weekends at the golf course with my dad. I started getting involved by just hitting a few balls here and there, and before I knew it, I was hooked. 

Q: Can you share a bit about your journey in learning and developing your golfing skills? 

A: In 2018, I met my husband, who happens to be a former golf professional with experience playing in South Africa. He’s been my main coach and mentor, teaching me pretty much of everything I know about the game, and he still does. It’s been an incredible journey learning from him.

Q: Who has been the most influential person or people in your golfing career, and how have they impacted you? 

A: My husband has been my coach and mentor since 2018, guiding me through every swing and putt on the course. His support and expertise have been invaluable in shaping my journey in golf.  

Q: Reflecting on your golfing journey, what are some of the most memorable tournaments? 

A: Without a doubt, winning our national open at Rossmund last year stands out as one of the most unforgettable moments in my golfing journey. It was an incredible feeling to clinch victory on home soil, surrounded by the support of fellow competitors and fans.

Q: Among all the tournaments you’ve participated in, which one do you consider the most challenging, and what made it so? 

A: The Omeya Ladies Cup holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just about playing for oneself but also representing a team, which adds a whole new level of responsibility and challenge. The camaraderie and collective effort required make it a uniquely rewarding experience on the golf course.

Q: Your recent victory in the ABInBev amateur golf tournament in Windhoek. How did you find the overall experience of participating in that tournament? 

A: The experience was fantastic. The course was impeccably maintained, and the setup provided just the right balance of challenge and enjoyment. It was a pleasure to navigate through each hole and test my skills against the course’s nuances.

Q: What was the most challenging aspect of the recent tournament for you, and how did you overcome it? 

A: The most challenging factor for me was the heat, especially considering the abnormal conditions we were experiencing. Staying hydrated and keeping my energy levels up became crucial strategies to navigate through the tournament successfully. It was a real test of both physical and mental resilience on the course.

Q: Winning the tournament must have been a significant achievement for you. How do you feel about emerging as the overall champion? 

A: It was truly a humbling experience, especially considering the calibre of talent present in the field. Competing alongside so many skilled players served as a reminder of the high level of competition in amateur golf and motivated me to continuously strive for improving my game.

Q: Reflecting on your career as an amateur golfer, how do you assess the progress you’ve made so far? 

A: As a small kid playing around and hitting balls, I could have never imagined achieving the level of success I have in ladies golf in Namibia. It’s been an incredible journey filled with unexpected opportunities and triumphs, and I’m grateful for every moment of it.

Q: What are your thoughts on the state of golf in Namibia, and how do you see yourself contributing to its growth and development? 

A: Unfortunately, ladies golf still forms a relatively small part of the puzzle, but I’m passionate about seeing more women becoming involved and participating in the game. 

It’s not just about increasing numbers but also about creating a supportive and inclusive environment where women feel empowered to pursue their passion for golf.

Q: Considering the challenges that women often face in sports, particularly in terms of international recognition, have you encountered any hurdles as a female golfer in Namibia? 

A: No, I haven’t. 

Q: Have you ever considered pursuing golf as a professional career in Namibia, and if so, what factors would influence your decision? 

A: No, I’m perfectly content being an amateur player and relishing the moments when I can beat my husband on the course from time to time. 

It adds a fun dynamic to our relationship and keeps the competitive spirit alive in our household!

Q: Looking ahead, what are your ambitions and goals for the next five years in your golfing journey? 

A: It’s my goal to be selected for the All Africa Team and proudly represent my country on the international stage. However, for now, my focus is entirely on our next tournament, the Swakopmund Open in April 2024. 

I’m pouring all my energy and dedication into preparing for that event and giving it my absolute best shot.


2024-03-14  Maurice Kambukwe

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