Mpumalanga road trip
S p e c i a l F e at u r e – M p u m a l a n g a R o a d T r i p
Mpumalanga road trip
W
hen you set off to visit the Mpumalanga Province it is always with a sense of excitement, “the place where the sun rises” as it means in Xhosa borders Swaziland and Mozambique and is divided into two distinct regions by the Drakensberg escarpment. A westerly half called the Highveld and an easterly area known as the Lowveld.
There are many more golf courses in the area other than the seven mentioned above but our five day window period had us on our toes and we selected these for the variety that they offer. I would strongly recommend a golf tour taking in at least four of the above combined with either a visit to the Kruger National Park or a spot of Tiger fishing in the Komati River.
The Lowveld is subtropical, due to its latitude and proximity to the warm Indian Ocean. The Highveld is comparatively much cooler, due to its altitude of 2300 m to 1700 m above sea level. Over a period of five days we travelled to the Highveld to visit Highland Gate Golf & Trout Estate just outside the small town of Dullstroom. We then headed down to the Lowveld and visited Sabi River Sun, White River Country Club, Mbombela Golf Club, Malelane Golf Club, Leopard Creek and Kambaku Golf Club in Komatipoort.
You will not find an experience like this anywhere else in the world and with the Lalapalm Competition coming up at Malelane Golf Club between the 17th and 20th of April, the Big Easter Festival at White River Country Club between the 17th and 21st of April and the Jock of the Bushveld Amateur Tournament at Mbombela Golf Club between the 28th April and the 5th May you would be well advised to read this feature, book your accommodation, pack your clubs and then head east…
10
www.sagolftrader.co.za
March | April 2019
S p e c i a l F e at u r e – M p u m a l a n g a R o a d T r i p
March | April 2019
www.sagolftrader.co.za
11
S p e c i a l F e at u r e – M p u m a l a n g a R o a d T r i p
WALKERSONS’ GOLF PACKAGE
W
alkersons Hotel & Spa set in the rolling hills of the Mpumalanga highlands with beautiful views and unrivalled serenity, just beyond the picturesque hamlet of Dullstroom, is known for its stylish country charm, and is famous for its fishing. The area’s fishing industry dates back to the early 1900s and fishermen have been flocking to Dullstroom ever since. The cosy country hotel, built in 1993 offers an indulgent choice of 27 hotel suites: 14 Lakeside suites and 11 slightly larger, Luxury Lakeside suites; the Manor suite with two bedrooms (sleeps two adults and two children over the age of 6); a Honeymoon suite with an extra-long king size four-poster bed, plus six fully-furnished, spacious self-catering cottages (sleeping from 4 to 10) dotted around the grounds, suitable for families with children under 12. The Flying Scotsman and Terrace restaurants treat guests and day visitors to superior dining, unpretentious country fare and light meals, all lovingly prepared by a passionate team. The Walkersons Spa offers an extensive pampering menu with bespoke signature treatments delivered by expert therapists. Walkersons, awarded the 2018 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence, is an easy drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, and is ideal for a luxurious weekend break in the country, or the perfect venue for a wedding or a business conference. It is also perfect for a spot of golf - Walkersons Hotel & Spa has, for your golfing pleasure, partnered with Highland Gate Golf and Trout Estate (a magnificent golf course, rated as one of the best in South Africa), to offer you a special Golf Package: Book a two night stay (or longer) in a Luxury Lakeside suite and you will receive either two complimentary rounds of golf *at the Highland Gate Golf and Trout Estate, OR one complimentary round of golf* and one complimentary 60min massage*. This special offer is valid from April to July, 2019. ** The golf and massage must be booked at the time of making the accommodation booking - both are subject to availability. No matter how long your stay at Walkersons – it certainly will not feel like it is long enough! Rates: From R 2 635 per person per night in a Lakeside Suite on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis or R 3 035 per person in a Luxury Suite on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis. To book, call Reservations on 013 253 7000 or email reservations@walkersons.co.za www.walkersons.co.za | Facebook: Walkersons Hotel & Spa | Twitter: Walkersons Hotel
12
www.sagolftrader.co.za
March | April 2019
S p e c i a l F e at u r e – M p u m a l a n g a R o a d T r i p
March | April 2019
www.sagolftrader.co.za
13
SPECIAL FE ATURE - M p u m a l a n g a r o a d t r i p
I
A Brief History of “The Jock”
n 1967 J.J. Van Rensburg and Rip Riphagen created a new topic of conversation in the pub at the Nelspruit Gold Club - a place where most bright ideas originate. Lively discussion ensued amongst the “manne” for many a memorable evening with major contributions from Christo Basson and Ken Myers and the concept of Jock was born. The idea was taken to Committee where it was met with very mixed feelings, however, months of pub discussions had armed the proponents of Jock with very persuasive arguments and Jock’s birth became official. The first jock was played from Thursday to Sunday and consisted of two 18-hole competitions each day with the 36-hole Lowveld Open on the Sunday. In 1969 Jock was extended to include Wednesday. It was not unusual in those early jocks for players to be called to the tee for the afternoon competition while still battling up the 18th hole of the morning round. In 1973 the tournament was changed to its present format, including the Tuesdays from 1977 and the Monday from 1981. A feature of the first Jock was the presence of Bobby Locke who entertained us with his ukulele until 4.00am on Sunday morning then curled up in the lounge and went to sleep. He was
14
awakened for his tee off time but informed Ken Myers that he required some “hair of the dog”. Old baggy pants duly retired to the pub for a “few” gins after which the maestro recorded a 141 gross for the day and Ken retired to bed - for the day! Jock has not only survived since those early days, indeed it has prospered and since 1969 the tournament has been oversubscribed each year. Currently approximately 2 000 rounds of golf are played over the week by 800 competitors and it is reputed to be the largest amateur tournament of its kind. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then it speaks volumes that even with the advent of the “Barberton Daisy” the “Lalapalm” and numerous other similar tournaments, the Jock retains its reputation for being the best and the Jock plaque the most sought after trophy in amateur golf. It is not just a golf tournament but a meeting place where friendships are made and renewed some panning the entire 52 years. This year Jock comes of age and we trust you will find your tournament as enjoyable as those you have attended in the past. We look forward to hosting you at the club for the week, sharing the old and new stories and some cold beers together.
www.sagolftrader.co.za
March | April 2019
SPECIAL FE ATURE - M p u m a l a n g a r o a d t r i p
March | April 2019
www.sagolftrader.co.za
15
SPECIAL FE ATURE - M p u m a l a n g a r o a d t r i p
The Malelane Golf Club
M
alelane is a country-style nine-hole golf club with 18 tees that is situated at the front door of the Kruger National Park. The Kruger Park Malelane gate is a mere kilometre away from the golf course.
Conceptualized in 1963, construction began in 1967 and the first golf ball was teed-up on 15 March 1969. TSB Sugar constructed the main building and helped towards the development of the course. The highlight of the opening was to host Gary Player. Today TSB now known as RCL still support the club, but most of the funds come from the members and visitors playing fees. It is unique and challenging yet friendly. A course that makes you feel you’re at home. It’s visually attractive and memorable once played. It has an abundance of fauna and flora and the birdlife is prolific.
16
One of the major events in the history of the club is the much sought after Lalapalm Competition. A three-day competition spread over four days allows visitors the opportunity to relax and spend time game viewing in the Southern region of the Kruger National Park. It is always played just prior to the Easter Weekend holidays and this year it will be hosted from the 17th to 20th April.
Several accommodation opportunities within the area can be recommended and one of those that stand out is Kruger View Chalets which is nestled on the Crocodile River (the Kruger National Park is on the other side of the river). Only a few minutes from the golf course, Kruger View Chalets offer a range of self-catering accommodation that is ideal for business or for pleasure, with the whole family, that special someone or just yourself.
www.sagolftrader.co.za
March | April 2019
SPECIAL FE ATURE - M p u m a l a n g a r o a d t r i p
March | April 2019
www.sagolftrader.co.za
17
S p e c i a l F e at u r e – M p u m a l a n g a R o a d T r i p
One of Africa’s golfing jewels
Leopard Creek
S
ituated on the southern bank of the Crocodile river forming the natural border of the world-renowned Kruger Park lies one of Africa’s golfing jewels – Leopard Creek. Born of the vision of a banker and the expertise of one of the world’s greatest golfers, it was founded on the values of friendship, a common love for the game of golf and a shared reverence for nature. Drawing
18
from this intricate wealth of nature, Leopard Creek is an unobtrusive part of the environment – blending, complementing and enhancing – truly a gift of nature. Innovative architectural and landscaping techniques ensure that the Leopard Creek golf course and living areas are naturally protected from animals, while lakes and
www.sagolftrader.co.za
March | April 2019
S p e c i a l F e at u r e – M p u m a l a n g a R o a d T r i p small streams have been diverted through the development to create scenic vistas and interesting golf strategies. Golfing hazards take on a new dimension at Leopard Creek, for much of the water is home to the magnificent creatures for which the river is named, crocodiles. Extensive use has been made of water features and sightings of crocodile, hippo, antelope, buffalo and elephant are commonplace, on the course or in the Kruger Park bordering the course.
a covered patio – watch play on the 9th and 18th greens or enjoy a leisurely cocktail and a superb view of the animals in the Kruger National Park. A second terrace leading out from a fully equipped bar offers spectacular sunset vistas over the river. An extensive, professional kitchen serves full meals. A fully stocked Pro Shop, well-appointed changing facilities and individual lockers, spike-proof carpeting throughout and covered parking for golf carts cater for the most discerning golfer.
The 505-meter par-five 13th is one of Leopard Creek’s most memorable holes. Here the green is right on the edge of the Crocodile river but 32 meters above the level of the water, offering magnificent views up the river and into the Kruger Park. Gary Player is especially proud of the par-five 18th with its island green and the par-four 9th with its peninsula green jutting out of the same body of water. The elegant clubhouse is sited on the bank of the Crocodile River. The lounge leads on to
March | April 2019
www.sagolftrader.co.za
19
SPECIAL FE ATURE - M p u m a l a n g a r o a d t r i p
20
www.sagolftrader.co.za
March | April 2019
SPECIAL FE ATURE - M p u m a l a n g a r o a d t r i p
March | April 2019
www.sagolftrader.co.za
21
SPECIAL FE ATURE - M p u m a l a n g a r o a d t r i p
22
www.sagolftrader.co.za
March | April 2019
SPECIAL FE ATURE - M p u m a l a n g a r o a d t r i p
March | April 2019
www.sagolftrader.co.za
23