in THE HOLE:
Words by Francois Flamengo Photos courtesy of Serengeti Golf Course
Must-play Golf Courses
Serengeti Golf
and Wildlife Estate
Any golfer in Johannesburg would agree that we are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a course for a round of golf. JCC, Royal Johannesburg, and I could go on and on and on. But one course in the east of Johannesburg that has made a big name for itself - and after playing on it, it now ranks in my top five courses - is the Serengeti Golf and Wildlife Estate.
When you arrive at the clubhouse, which is beautiful by the way, your golf bag is specially marked with your name and placed on a golf cart that's waiting for you. From here you make your way down to the fantastic change room facilities, and can grab a quick bite to eat or drink from the snack shop before hitting the greens. If you've forgotten something, or just want to browse, the Pro Shop offers a wide range of golf apparel and equipment. The Head Professional and his team are available to assist you with anything from advice regarding clubs and store merchandise, to club repairs and adjustments.
Serengeti's golf course was designed by a man who needs no introductions in the golfing world, Mr. Jack Nicklaus. The course features a fantastic blend of lush green fairways with grasslands, which are complimented by bunkers, and features water on almost every hole. But what makes this venue so special is the fact that it is a 27-hole signature course, comprising of an 18-hole championship golf course, named Masai Mara, and a 9-hole course called Whistling Thorn. The latter features a more classical golf-course feel compared to the more rugged grassland and dune landscape of the Masai Mara.
Playing on the course is an absolute treat, the grass is well manicured and if you stay on the course you will have loads of good scoring opportunities. However, should you hit your ball into the rough, you can pretty much kiss your ball goodbye J.
It is also the first course in Gauteng to use cool season grasses, which means that it stays lush and green throughout the year. A variety of tee options keep the most skilled players challenged, yet are ideal for new golfers to learn the game. There are a number of unique features, such as the challenging par 5, 8th hole with its island green.
In conclusion, this course is challenging and fun, and I would highly recommend giving your mates a call to say that you booking your next four ball at the Serengeti Golf and Wildlife Estate.
My personal favourite is the second last hole on the first nine. The design is amazing, with players starting on a tee box that provides a view of a massive water feature on your right, which runs all the way to the island green, and an almost straight fairway running parallel to it on the left. The par 5 is extremely challenging, but there's many ways to play it. If you are feeling adventurous and go for the big shot, you will be well rewarded, but the course will punish you severely if you get it wrong.
I'm confident you will all enjoy it thoroughly and, like myself, be back more ...
112 • DO IT NOW Magazine October | November 2012