Te Awamutu golfer Blake Novak gears up for US challenge in 2025

Te Awamutu's Blake Novak was crowned the 2024 Waikato Eagles Young Golfer of the Year.

Te Awamutu’s rising golf star, Blake Novak, 15, is gearing up to compete in several big tournaments in the United States in 2025.

The teenager has already built a reputation as one of New Zealand’s brightest young talents, after being crowned the 2024 Waikato Eagles Young Golfer of the Year.

Novak’s journey in golf began at age 8 in Western Australia.

He is now practising five to six days a week at Stewart Alexander Golf Club and Te Awamutu Golf Club.

Novak’s accolades include victories in multiple kids’ golf tournaments in Australia and top honours at home, including Te Awamutu College Senior Sportsperson of the Year (awarded to a junior for the first time) and the Phil Tataurangi Sportsman of the Year, acknowledging his excellence and sportsmanship.

His recent accomplishments highlight his readiness for the big stage.

From dominating the King Country Championships to competing at national and interprovincial levels, his performance on the green has been nothing short of stellar.

The US trip marks the next step in his golfing career, offering the chance to compete against some of the world’s best junior golfers.

However the venture requires significant financial support, and the community is rallying behind him.

Te Awamutu golfer Blake Novak is a promising talent.

A fundraiser golf tournament will be held on February 2, 2025, with proceeds contributing to Novak’s travel, training, and tournament costs.

His family and supporters hope the community will come out in full force to help make this dream a reality.

“This isn’t just about Blake; it’s about inspiring others,” his mother, Jess Hawkes, said.

Novak is already giving back, teaching lessons twice a week to the next generation of golfers.

For Novak, this opportunity is more than a tournament. It’s a stepping stone to more success and a chance to elevate the profile of New Zealand junior golf internationally.