“My parents have never allowed me to use my disability as an excuse, pushing me daily to reach my full potential. They have never allowed me to give up. I wouldn’t be where I am now without them,” he says.
As time has passed, Reid has learnt to look beyond the frustrations associated with his situation and has made significant strides towards self-acceptance.
“My greatest frustration is that my right side operates with a mind of its own. I’ve lost count of how many things my right-hand drops on a daily basis. I have come to terms with the fact that it will happen for the rest of my life and I shouldn’t be so hard on myself when it does.”
Joining the South African Disabled Golf Association earlier in 2021 has also been key to Reid feeling accepted by others.
“I love the people within the organisation. From the players and the people that work tirelessly to make the events happen: Johan Du Plooy and Lily Reich among others have been incredibly welcoming. I have never felt more at home and accepted.”
In the field for the 2021 Canon Gauteng Open at Zwartkop Country Club, Reid is targeting a top-3 finish in the Physically-Disabled Strokeplay.
And when, for whatever reason, he experiences negative thoughts or self-doubt on or off the golf course, he needs only glance at his wrist.
“I have a tattoo on my right wrist that says “YOU ARE ENOUGH”, this serves as a constant reminder to not be too hard on myself.”
*Hemiplegia: Hemiplegic cerebral palsy affects motor abilities and muscle tone on one of the body.