MAYBANK MALAYSIAN OPEN
KLGCC(MARCH2 1-24)

Matteo Manassero made it a memorable day for young aspiring golfers under the Maybank Junior Golf programme yesterday.

The 19-year-old Manassero, who became the youngest player to win the 2011 Malaysian Open, spent some time with about 100 children under the programme at a coaching clinic at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club.

Three children – Hoda Soraya, Anneq Zafri and Aqil Mohd Nadzul – were even given first hand tips on putting by the Italian.

Manassero was happy to see the enthusiastic children and he’s banking on his presence to inspire them to become good golfers in the future.

“There is a bright future for them. Many efforts have been put to nurture the young ones and I foresee Malaysian juniors coming through in the long run,” said Manassero, who became the youngest player to make the cut in the US Masters two years ago and was also the youngest to win an European Tour event.

On putting, he shared an invaluable tip.

“Putting is the easiest stroke but it becomes difficult because most of the time, we allow our mind to think it is difficult. One needs to relax. To get a nice putt, just concentrate on the shot and enjoy,” he said.

The children aged 12 and below, also enjoyed a good time learning from Malaysia’s top professional Danny Chia.

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