Ky’s Kayne to carry torch at National Special Olympics

In two short years, Kayne has transformed from a casual weekend golfer with his family to earning a spot on the Victorian team and chosen to carry the torch during the opening ceremony.

Parkland Gold Club’s junior co-ordinator Naomi Cartwright said Kayne was a known face a the club and had been since he took up the sport during COVID-19.

“His passion is down (on the field) every day practising ... it’s given him a new outlook on what’s out there for all abilities,” Cartwright said.

He has been on the all-ability team since February before joining the Special Olympics this year, putting his golfing skills to the test in the recent state competition.

Kayne clinched his place on the state team after an impressive silver medal win at the Victorian Special Olympics on Friday, September 20, with his family cheering him on.

Success in the national competition in Queensland could have him picked to play internationally as a part of team Australia.

Local golf talent Ben Patten has been coaching him on and off throughout his golfing journey and has seen his meteoric rise through the ranks first-hand.

“I am proud to be a part of what he does and be one of those support people that he’s got … it’s great to see the enjoyment that Kayne and a couple of his friends get out of playing,” Patten said.

“It’s so cool to watch him and he’s like a professional now, it’s all he seems to do and he’s very invested in the game.

“I actually learn off them as much as they learn off me.”

Since taking up golf, Kayne has dramatically improved his game, slashing his average score from 54.0 to an impressive 22.0.

Kayne’s dad Mick Crompton said even if he came away without winning, he would have already gained so much from participating and being active in the sport that it would not matter.

“The drive for him comes through his passion to succeed,” Mick Crompton said.

“His goal, one day, is to be a pro golfer – and hopefully it comes to fruition.”

Mick would like to thank everyone that helped Kayne get to the level he is at today including Parkland Golf Club, his coach Ben Patten, Moama Bowling Club, Kyabram Fire Brigade, Goulburn Murray Golf Association, Campaspe Shire Council and a grant given by the Australian Sports Commission.

Kayne said three years ago he never would have dreamt he would even be playing golf, let alone that he would have made the state team.