Looking for kids with that X factor

Junior golfer under scrutiny from the X-Factor judges.

Over 500 young golfers faced the judges this weekend, as golf’s first X-Factor style auditions kicked off in spectacular fashion at Playgolf in Manchester. And with their families looking on, 66 kids aged between seven and 14 made it through auditions to the next stage on the ‘Tiger Hunt’ trail.

Just as in the TV talent show, the hopefuls went through a nerve-wracking audition in front of four judges – hitting three golf balls instead of singing a song.

Les Ferdinand has a word with one of the contestants

“It was an emotional weekend,” said Les. “You could see how much it meant to the kids, they were incredibly brave to stand up there and hit three shots in front of the judges. Rather them than me! Every one of them deserved a medal, and we think we have found some brilliant golfing talents among the qualifiers.”

The ‘Tiger Hunt’ event is an initiative to unearth a youngster in the North West who has what it takes to eventually succeed in golf’s professional ranks. The winning child receives a year’s free golf lessons, a new set of clubs and clothing, plus a year’s free membership at a local golf club.

Celebrity judge Charlotte Jackson said: “I have so much respect for every single boy and girl who stood up and hit golf balls in front of us. Having faced a few auditions myself, I can tell you that what they did took huge courage! The weekend flew by, and there were some real stand-out characters. It was one of the best golf events I've seen.”

McEvoy will be monitoring the winning golfer’s progress and said: “It was the single most thrilling demonstration of junior golf I have seen in 40 years. Even under pressure, you could see the raw talent instantly.”

Added Whitfield. “Literally hundreds of families visited us for the first time.We were originally looking for just 40 ‘Boot Camp’ qualifiers, but so many amazing young golfers turned up that we ended up putting far more through 'Boot Camp.'

The youngsters will face sessions of intensive tuition at Playgolf Manchester, from October 11 to November 2.