A Two-Year-Old Golfing Whiz: The Youngest Member of Worthing Golf Club
In a remarkable feat, a two-year-old boy has become the youngest member of Worthing Golf Club, marking a new milestone in the club’s 120-year history. James Hearne Jnr, just two years old, has already demonstrated skills that have left his teacher and family in awe. With a miniature putter designed for a four-year-old, James showcases an astonishing level of coordination and skill, which his teacher, Peter Taver Jones, describes as ‘astounding’.
His journey with golf began when he was just one year old, and his family says he’s been ‘captivated by the game since he could walk’. James’ maternal grandfather, a keen golfer, introduced him to the sport by taking him to the putting green. It didn’t take long for James to develop a natural talent, mirroring the swings of golfers on TV and displaying impressive hand-eye coordination.
His father, James Snr, believes James might be the youngest member of any golf club in the UK, considering that many golfing stars joined their clubs much later. For instance, Rory McIlroy didn’t become a club member until the age of seven. While James’ talent is undeniable, his family is determined to keep him away from digital distractions like iPads and phones for as long as possible, focusing on his physical development.
Adding to the intrigue, James shares his birthday, March 14, with the legendary physicist Albert Einstein. This unique connection to a scientific genius further highlights James’ extraordinary abilities. As Worthing Golf Club’s seasoned members marvel at James’ precociousness, they can’t help but draw parallels to golfing legends who also started their journey early, like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, who demonstrated their skills at a young age.
Despite the early praise and comparisons, the family remains grounded, and no world championships are predicted just yet. However, James’ story serves as a testament to the power of early exposure and natural talent, leaving golf enthusiasts and parents alike inspired and curious about the young prodigy’s future in the sport.