The Chinese Lunar New Year is just a week away, and the Metal Ox is impatiently waiting in the wings, eager to get down to business from February 12, 2020 until January 21, 2022.
While 2020 has been a tremendously testing, chaotic year, to say the least, 2021 is expected to see the dogged resilience of the Ox restoring positivity, hope, order and success … providing patience, hard work, discipline and determination are all part of the equation.
Here’s a look at some of golf’s most gifted Oxen, as well as the year’s forecast according to Chinese astrology.
Lydia Ko
Country: New Zealand
Birthdate: April 24, 1997 / Birthplace: Seoul, South Korea / Residence: Orlando, Florida, USA
Achievements: 22 professional wins, including 2 Majors (Evian Championship – 2015; ANA Inspiration – 2016)
Webb Simpson
Country: USA
Birthdate: August 8, 1985 / Birthplace: Raleigh, North Carolina, USA / Residence: Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
Achievements: 7 professional wins, including 1 Major (US Open – 2012)
Brittany Lincicome
Country: USA
Birthdate: September 19, 1985 / Birthplace: St Petersburg, Florida, USA / Residence: Gulfport, Florida, USA
Achievements: 8 professional wins, including 2 Majors (ANA Inspiration – 2009, 2015)
Stacy Lewis
Country: USA
Birthdate: February 16, 1985 / Birthplace: Toledo, Ohio, USA / Residence: Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, USA
Achievements: 15 professional wins, including 2 Majors (ANA Inspiration – 2011; Women’s British Open – 2013)
Tom Watson
Birthdate: September 4, 1949 / Birthplace: Kansas City, Missouri, USA / Residence: Overland Park, Kansas, USA
Achievements: 70 professional wins, including 8 Majors (Masters Tournament – 1977, 1981; US Open – 1982; Open Championship – 1975, 1977, 1980, 1982, 1983)
Brooke Henderson
Country: Canada
Birthdate: September 10, 1997 / Birthplace: Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada / Residence: Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada
Achievements: 14 professional wins, including 1 Major (Women’s PGA Championship – 2016)
Tom Kite
Country: USA
Birthdate: December 9, 1949 / Birthplace: McKinney, Texas, USA / Residence: Austin, Texas, USA
Achievements: 37 professional wins, including 1 Major (US Open – 1992)
Ben Leong
Birthdate: January 20, 1986 / Birthplace: Sabah, Malaysia / Residence: Sabah, Malaysia
Achievements: 6 professional wins, including 1 Asian Tour title (Worldwide Selangor Masters – 2008)
Stewart Ginn
Country: Australia
Birthdate: June 2, 1949 / Birthplace: Melbourne, Australia / Residence: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Achievements: 19 professional wins; PGA Tour of Australia Order of Merit winner in 1973
V Nellan
Country: Malaysia
Birthdate: September 30, 1949 (Dep: May 16, 2020) / Birthplace: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Achievements: 2 professional wins (Tasek Cement Matchplay – 1985; Malaysian PGA Championship – 1987); represented Malaysia in two World Cups of Golf (1976 and 1977)
SNEAK PEEK: What’s in store for each of the 12 Chinese zodiacs in the Year of the Ox
RAT
Birth Years: 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
As far as career’s concerned, 2021 could be a year of continued challenges as the Rat will be shouldering additional work that would require more effort and time. This, however, should not be a problem for Rats as they’re no strangers to hard work, so expect rewards, whether in the form of a raise or a promotion. The money you’ve saved thus far will prove helpful, and you’d most likely breeze through the months without excessively stressful financial issues. If you’re a single Rat, you might just meet the right person this year, so keep your eyes and heart open.
OX
Birth Years: 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009
After all the hard work put in throughout the past year, 2021 looks to be a promising year for the Ox as he/she will be able to enjoy the fruits of their labour. Look out for promotions, unexpected gifts and new acquaintances. New business ventures could prove rewarding as well. The Ox may not be the most social of animals, so take the initiative to reach out to friends and family from time to time. Partake in social activities where you can relax and have some fun.
TIGER
Birth Years: 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010
2021 could potentially be a lovely, even gratifying, year for Tigers if they can keep their impulsive, rebellious nature in check, and accept the fact that the year will not exactly be all sunshine and rainbows. Persevere through; all that hard work will be rewarded next year as 2022 will be the Year of the Tiger. If you’re contemplating a career change, take the time to analyse everything thoroughly, don’t jump the gun. Romance is in the cards for single Tigers, but don’t get carried away; think rationally, instead of with your emotions.
RABBIT
Birth Years: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011
Tone down on the need for perfection at the workplace, and 2021 could turn out to be a pleasant one for Rabbits. Save yourself disappointment by not expecting too much from others. It’s not the best time for major changes, so avoid making rash decisions. On the personal front, you could face some trouble maintaining your relationship with your partner; the key is to remain patient while you work out ways to resolve the problem. A new artistic hobby could help relieve all that tension and emotional stress.
DRAGON
Birth Years: 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
Despite various challenges in the type of work undertaken, Dragons can look forward to a reasonably good year overall. Remain diligent and meticulous, and stay focused on the big picture. Though your finances will improve, don’t spend unnecessarily. Romance is on the cards for single Dragons, so be open to possibilities. If you’re longing for the joys of parenthood, expect great news this year. You will also enjoy good health, but take it easy – slow down, stop, and smell the roses.
SNAKE
Birth Years: 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013
A much better work year awaits Snakes so long as you invest the necessary time and effort in the projects undertaken. Don’t shy away from seeking help in order to achieve your goals. Any career changes should be put off for the time being. Sound communication is key as you strive to improve relationships and resolve family conflicts. Single Snakes might be lucky in love in 2021. Health-wise, it’s a relatively good year. Outdoor activities will help rid excess energy and maintain good mental health.
HORSE
Birth Years: 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
Compared to last year, 2021 is a much kinder year for Horses. Those in business will experience good financial growth this year. When opportunity knocks, take advantage. Put in the hard work, and you shall reap the rewards. But be careful with your finances, be cautious when making any investments. Horses tend to fall in love easily, so take your time with new romances, or risk getting your heart broken. If you’re married, it’s time to pay more attention to your spouse. Healthwise, it’s smooth-sailing for Horses, though some dental issues might put a damper on things.
GOAT
Birth Years: 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015
Though Goats should be ready for some unexpected changes, in general 2021 looks to be a relatively good year. You’ll most likely face some issues at work as well as some financial trouble, but you’ll get through it if you stay calm, focused, and avoid making impulsive decisions. For those looking for a career change, there might be opportunities and offers likely to pique your interest. Single Goats might just meet their match this year. Married couples, meanwhile, might want to anticipate changes in their dynamics as there will likely be a new addition to the family. Health-wise, it’s advisable for Goats to get routine check-ups and pay attention to stress management.
MONKEY
Birth Years: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
Monkeys can expect a smooth ride across 2021 as there’s unlikely to be major work or financial issues. If you’re on the lookout for a job, there’s a good chance you’ll land one – and it would be something you’ll excel at. Those already in a relationship might want to settle down this year. Single Monkeys need to remain patient if a true connection is what you desire. Those married might want to get your priorities straight before wandering eyes land you in dangerous waters. Practise mindfulness through activities such as yoga and meditation.
ROOSTER
Birth Years: 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
A year full of positive changes awaits Roosters. There will be opportunities for improvements, so be prepared to take on the challenge and make certain sacrifices. There may be some interpersonal issues at work, but always remain level-headed. Avoid excessive spending – stick to a budget so you don’t get into financial trouble. As for romance, dates are on the horizon for singles; however if a true connection is what you’re after, you’ll have to remain patient. In terms of health, Roosters will enjoy a good year overall, but be extra careful on the roads while driving.
DOG
Birth Years: 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018
Dogs will have to take on 2021 with unfaltering determination to reap results. Opportunities to create the kind of life you desire will present themselves, but so will obstacles. Remember to stay on course and your financial situation will improve. Being a social animal, the Dog will be keen to go out and meet new people, maybe even find love this year. Communication with a potential match is key, take constructive criticism in your stride. Married Dogs, meanwhile, may grow distant, so communicate effectively. Make time for physical outdoor activities in order to maintain good health.
PIG
Birth Years: 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019
Looks like Pigs will enjoy a reasonably balanced year as they will encounter opportunities as well as obstacles. For businesspeople, good fortune may come your way providing you put in the hard work. Put off any career-related changes until next year. Romance is on the cards for single Pigs, while those already married could struggle with work/life balance, which would in turn affect your relationship, so make sure you invest in quality time with your spouse. In terms of health, expect no major issues, though work fatigue could lead to mental and physical stress, so ensure optimum hours of sleep daily.
