YOUNG golfer, Taio Burkitt secured 13th place out of 53 golfers from around the world in the Uswing World championships.

Taio’s journey began in San Diego, where he competed in the Uswing World Championships. Despite being unable to practice for five weeks due to a recent operation, Taio demonstrated remarkable resilience and secured 13th place out of 53 golfers from around the world.

Following this, Taio travelled to Florida for the Under Armour World Championships. From the very first round, he held the lead and the competition came down to the 9th hole. Taio alongside his Dad also his caddie, was unaware that he needed a par to win, but remained focused and calm under pressure. Taio’s determination ultimately led to him to victory, and he was crowned World Champion.

Taio’s next stop was the US Kids World Championships in Pinehurst, North Carolina. Leading after Day 1, the challenging heat and humidity of the subsequent rounds impacted his performance. Nevertheless, he finished T8th out of 103 competitors, just one shot off a trophy and only five shots behind the winner.

Golf is a game of patience and focused attention and Taio managed this well to succeed.

Taio’s coach Natalie Gobey, PGA pro at Brynmeadows golf club said: “I’ve had the pleasure of working with Taio for over two years, and it has been nothing short of exceptional. His work ethic is outstanding- he consistently goes above and beyond in everything he does.

“For someone his age, his understanding of the golf swing is remarkably advanced, a true testament to both his dedication to the game and his natural talent.

“Even more impressive is his personal growth. Watching Taio develop not just as a golfer, bus as a well-rounded young man, has been a privilege.

“He approaches challenges with maturity, treats others with genuine respect, and maintains a focused, positive attitude both on and off the course.

“Taio’s love for the game is unmistakable- and that passion is what it takes to truly succeed. When you fall in love with the game and process, success naturally follows – and this is certainly the case with Taio.

“He’s a gifted individual, and I look forward to continuing to watch his journey and growth in the years ahead.

Taio has exciting and upcoming tournaments coming up.

Taio has a Mini Masters tournament on August 15 in West Wales, run by Wales golf, which is an handicap event. He is the youngest player and plays against 10-17 year old golfers and he will be hoping to qualify to play at the final beginning of October.

Taio plays on the British Junior Golf Tour which is based in and around London. He has a three day tournament on August 26,27 and 28, playing three different courses each day. Taio was in the lead of the order of merit, but whilst away in America has now dropped down to 4th place.

Taio then plays his tour every Sunday for five weeks until the tour championship where the order of merit champion will be crowned.

Taio played in the under 10 Ping golf tour in May this year, run by Wales golf where he was crowned the winner. He has qualified to play in the final at the end of September and will be playing in the US kids Wales local fall tour.

In September, Taio will be starting to play county golf for Glamorgan in the under 12’s, which he is looking forward to.

Taio would love to move to America, where he can play golf all year round, His aim is to become a pro golfer like his idol Bryson Dechambeau.