Game for Golf by SA Golf Trader

GAME FOR GOLF

Leopard Creek Country Club

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

GAME FOR GOLF South Africa is blessed with some of the finest golf courses on the planet and our game reserves, as we all know, are national gems. This combination attracts golfers from across the country (and indeed the world). The lure of teeing it up with friends on one day and observing wild animals in their natural surroundings the next, is hard to resist. The Covid-19 pandemic has taken its toll on many sporting codes, however golf, which lends itself to social distancing, has flourished and the game is seeing a sharp upswing in participation. With this in mind, we are proud to bring you “ Game for golf”.

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July | August 2021

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

Sabi Sand and Lowveld Golf Package Savanna Lodge and Olivers Golf Lodge and Spa

70%

DISCOUNT!

SA GOLF TRADER AD A5.indd July | August 2021

Hosted Golf. Price R13 000pp 4 nights. Contact Marc: 084 581 7200 marc@africadirect.co.za Special ends 20 December 2021. Full package details in featured article.

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2021/06/28 14:29

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ULTIMATE 5 STA We were extremely fortunate to receive an invitation from Marc Lindsey-Rea (Africa Direct Tours and Travel) to go and experience first-hand, the affordable 5-star package (please see opposite page) that they have put together with Savanna Lodge in the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, Oliver’s Guest house in White River Country Estate as well as White River Country club. (see page 29) Having grown up with most holidays based around golf and game viewing, I was really looking forward to this experience. Never did I think it would be this good, being treated like royalty for five days had never crossed my mind. From the moment my wife and I arrived at Oliver’s we were bowled over. ‘This was a completely different round of golf ‘

This 5-star lodge has the most spacious, luxurious rooms you could wish for. We were privately hosted by Marc and Mike from Africa direct, both renowned South African guides, for the duration of our two-night stay at Oliver’s. The restaurant here has been ranked in the top 100 in South Africa and you can choose delicious mouth-watering dishes from their seasonal a-la-carte menu which are complemented with a selection of fine South African wines found in their well-stocked wine cellar. The golf course was in great condition and Marc, who is also a top amateur golfer, hosted us on -course accompanied by Barry Broadbent, golf director at Whiteriver CC. This was a completely different round of golf and I can recommend this to any golfer out there. The round is all about having fun but also teaching the golfer proper course management which I think all golfers need to apply more. After a thoroughly enjoyable stay at Oliver’s it was time to move to our next destination. Savanna Private Game Reserve is located in the Western sector of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

AR EXPERIENCE is privileged to traverse approximately 9 000 hectares of beautiful bushveld. The area offers a diverse landscape from the open Savannah grasslands up to the thick riverine bushveld. Savanna safaris provide exceptional opportunities to see the ‘Big 5’ – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino – as well as cheetah, wild dog, hippo, crocodile, an abundance of general game and over 400 bird species. The emphasis at Savanna is, first and foremost, on the safari experience, on the activities of the many rare and beautiful creatures encountered in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. We had numerous sightings of the big 5 including a mating pair of Leopards next to the vehicle. Our ranger Kevin and his tracker Lawrence’s knowledge of the bushveld had no limits, from the game itself to the trees, plants and birdlife to the smallest of insects, all of which made our game drives the most enjoyable we’ve ever had.

‘The emphasis at Savanna is, first and foremost, on the safari experience’ Savanna has nine beautifully appointed suites and each are the epitome of elegance and comfort, the decor combines a colonial and classic mix of colours, fabrics and textures. All suites have WIFI, air-conditioning, fans, en-suite bathrooms, inside and outdoor showers, mini bars, tea & coffee making stations, covered patios and private heated plunge pools looking out onto five waterholes that surround the lodge and offer fantastic views of game drinking and bathing.

Foam bath after a game drive

Gourmet dining is an essential part of the Savanna experience with traditional local dishes adding spice to the best international fare. Dynamic menus are complemented with award winning wines from their well stocked cellar. This exclusive 5-star lodge delivers exceptional levels of personal service and great attention to detail.

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

WHITE RIVER COUNTRY CLUB White River Country Club is a Par 71, 18 hole Gary Player designed course set along the banks of the White river. It is a true country club layout that challenges the lower handicap golfer, whilst offering fair playability for the higher handicap golfer.

The Country Club is situated within the White River Country Estate, which consists of 322 residential houses. It consists of the golf course, tennis courts, a squash court, cricket field and a petanque court. The Clubhouse consists of a bar, restaurant, function room, swimming pool with braai facilities and a veranda with beautiful views overlooking the golf course.

par-3’s and a great Par 4 finishing hole.Mark Wiltshire Golf (MWG) is managing the golf club on behalf of the members since September 2019. As with most golf residential estates, the majority of home owners do not play golf and are not obliged to have membership to the golf club. In White River’s case, 244 of the 322 residential houses do not have golf membership which has provided opportunities to engage these residents to enjoy the Club facilities. A key focus of MWG has been the course and the conditioning thereof. The implementation of a dedicated agronomic plan, which includes bi-annual hollow-tining practices, preventative pesticides and fungicide applications and fertilizers that are matched to the Lowveld’s unique climate, have seen the course go from strength to strength. Particular attention has been given to improve the greens. Apart from the above, work has been done on the aesthetics of the course, focusing on fairway cutting lines and definition, levelling of tee boxes and

The golf course, which measures 6 057 metres in length, is a risk-reward type of course that is characterised by pine tree-lined fairways and subtle elevation changes. The greens are well designed and of the cynodont grass variety. Other features include the White River itself which crosses 4 holes, some memorable

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F WRCC is a Par 71, Gary Player designed Course set along the banks of the White River (with easy access to the Kruger National Park) and was officially opened in April 1973. A true Country Club layout that challenges the lower Handicap golfer, whilst offering fair playability for the higher Handicap golfer. Catering for smaller groups is our speciality. Contact us for the various options for on-site accommodation.

Thursday Special

Valid until 30 April 2022 & Includes: Greenfee, Golf Cart & Prego Roll at Halfway. R 370,00 per player. Between 07:00 & 08:00 and 12:00 & 13:00.

Greenfees

Affiliated: Non-Affiliated: Member Guest: Thursday Special:

R 390 R 470 R 320 R 370

VARIOUS ON-SITE ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Contact: 013 751 3781 | manager@wrcc.co.za | whiterivercountryclub.co.za The Lowveld has a huge attraction in the Kruger National Park, and the area, in its own right, offers some great Golf Courses. If you are heading to the Kruger or to Mpumalanga, it would be amiss of you not to get in a round at White River Country Club. We are open 7 days a week and bookings can be made through the Pro Shop on 013-751 3781.

improving playing surfaces. The golf course has received some rave reviews lately, and there has been a significant increase in visitor rounds, many of them repetitive as well. The course condition, friendly clubhouse service and reasonable green fee rates makes White River as must visit golf experience.

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

GOLF AND RELAXATION AT SABI RIVER SUN RESORT Africa’s leading hospitality Group, with over 50 years of service excellence in providing a home away from home for our guests, offers golf enthusiasts an unforgettable golfing retreat at Sabi River Sun Resort.

splendour nearby. The resort’s swimming pools, resident hippos, sports courts, rejuvenating spa and children’s play areas make for a wonderful family holiday experience.

Close to the gates of one of the world’s most famous safari parks, the Sabi River Sun Resort in Hazyview is a dream destination for a truly special wildlife experience. A beautiful golf course, popular day spa, refined and relaxing accommodation, and the renowned hospitality of Tsogo Sun Hotels ensure this is one of the best holiday resorts in Mpumalanga.

Whether you are visiting us for our award-winning Heather’s Spa, the golf, safari or just time with family, our services and amenities ensure a relaxed and memorable holiday. Guests at Sabi River Sun Resort enjoy a number of services and amenities to make life easier, such as free uncapped WiFi, kids’ activities program and great dining.

Sabi River Sun’s golf course offers golfers an unforgettable experience in one of only four 18-hole courses in the Lowveld. The recently refurbished course which was specially designed by the renowned Golf Data team, features an elegant reshape and redesign of the greens, using Champion 12 grass as well retouches to the surrounds using luxurious, super-soft Barbados Grass. Your golfing experience will never be the same on these majestic greens.

Book your stay now and enjoy even more of Hazyview at the following facilities.

With a location close enough to explore the Kruger National Park, Pilgrim’s Rest, Blyde River Canyon and God’s Window, there is no shortage of natural

• Kruger National Park • Elephant Whispers • Sabie Source of Surprises • Blyde River Canyon • The Magic Company • Induna Adventures • Shangana Cultural Village • The big swing & highwire Graskop

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July | August 2021

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

Skukuza Golf Club

Kruger National Park

The epitome of golf amongst game.

Come and experience 18 holes of golf amongst the Big 5, followed by some great food and cold beverages, overlooking the dam where wildlife roams free.

Email:info@skukuzagolf.co.za Tel: +27-13-735-5543 36

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www.skukuzagolf.co.za July | August 2021

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

The Kruger National Park is the primary destination in South Africa for many international tourists. Each year more than half a million visitors are registered. The world distinguished Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this national park of nearly 2 million hectares is unrivalled in the diversity of its life forms and a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies. Truly the flagship of the South African national parks, Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Man’s interaction with the Lowveld environment over many centuries - from bushman rock paintings to majestic archaeological sites like Masorini and Thulamela - is very evident in the Kruger National Park. These treasures represent the

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cultures, persons and events that played a role in the history of the Kruger National Park and are conserved along with the park’s natural assets. The Kruger National Park offers a wide variety of accommodation, not only in size, facilities and visual appearance, but also in price range.

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F safaris to create your dream safari holiday or vacation, you can be assured of the sheer enjoyment of unspoilt nature. The vitalizing air and open vistas will leave you relaxed and energized for when you return to civilization.

Golf is a must when visiting the Kruger. Activities: A large selection of wildlife Safari Tours are available in Kruger Game Reserve. These guided safari tours normally depart from Johannesburg and include a trip through the Mpumalanga panoramic route to Kruger Park. All meals are included and accommodation varies from staying in chalets to camping in large dome-tents in the Southern or Central regions of the park. Airport or accommodation pickups and drop offs are also arranged. Experienced rangers with an extensive knowledge of the area, the wildlife, birds and indigenous vegetation guide all walking safaris hiking trails. Accommodation in the game reserve is in a tented camp on a riverbed, in two-bedded safari-tents, with communal toilet and shower facilities. Camp staff cook and clean while your guide leads you into close encounters with the African wild. To maximise your wildlife sightings, one or two game drives are also included in these game hikes. If you are looking for exclusive comfort right out in the open savannah, open air dining on traditional cuisine under an African sky, superior personalised service, and adventure safari - then visit Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, Timbavati Private Game Reserve, Klaserie Private Game Reserve or Thornybush Private Game Reserve for a preview of private luxury lodge accommodation.

The golf course was built in 1972 as a recreational facility for the Skukuza personnel, and is now available to visitors to the Kruger National Park. The Skukuza Golf Course is situated on the outskirts of Skukuza Rest Camp. The rich wildlife sanctuary surrounding the golf course is home to the Big Five, a huge variety of birds and countless animals, which all conspire to provide the visitor with a harmonious close-to nature golfing experience. Since the course is not fenced-in, uninvited spectators are a common sight, hippo, impala, warthog and baboons to mention but a few. The Skukuza Golf Course has no bunkers, although ‘aerial bunkers’ abound because of the many trees found on the course. Tee-off times are available for visitors on a first come first serve basis, so book in advance to avoid disappointment. The Skukuza Golf Course is designed for all levels of golfers. Take along your golf clubs next time you visit the Kruger National Park and enjoy one of the most unique 9-hole golf courses in the world.

There are no restricting fences between the Private Game Reserves and the Kruger National Park, so exciting wildlife encounters in the open veld are the order of the day. With convertible

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

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JOHN COLLIER 2021

John Collier S TOP CLUB AWARD LEOPARD CREEK

orld Environment Day (WED) is celebrated on 5 June each year and stimulates awareness of the environment and enhances political attention and public action. This day is the UN’s most important day for encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the protection of our environment. Since its inception in 1974, it has grown to become a global platform for public outreach that is widely celebrated in over 100 countries.

Above all, WED is the “people’s day” for doing something to take care of the Earth. That “something” can have a local, national or global focus. Each WED is organized around a theme that focuses attention on a particular environmental concern, the theme for 2021 is ‘ecosystem restoration’. Each year those golf club’s data which was included in the 14th John Collier Annual Survey is assessed for environmental compliance and

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Survey good governance excellence. The winner for 2020-21 is LEOPARD CREEK situated near to Malelane in Mpumulanga Province of South Africa and Special Mention Awards to Montagu Golf Club in the Western Cape and Zwartkop Golf Club in Gauteng. The reviewers were really impressed with the level of detail and standards set in terms of good governance and environmental compliance by the LEOPARD CREEK team and it is fitting that on WED the club was appropriately recognised. 2020 was a year with multiple crises, including a global pandemic, but what LEOPARD CREEK has done well is to link the practical application of ecosystem restoration and focus on its relationship with nature, and then take specific steps to move from crisis to healing: and in so doing, recognize that the restoration of nature is imperative for the survival of our planet and the human race. LEOPARD CREEK’s initiatives have contributed to fight the climate crisis and will help to prevent the potential loss of many species. Their activities will also help to enhance food security, water supply and livelihoods while putting the club in a position to move towards a carbon neutral environment.

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LEOPARD CREEK’s winning this award cannot be achieved without the passion and commitment of many people who embrace the management benefits of sustainability, underpinned by good governance, environmental compliance and acknowledging the threats of climate change and the need to be on the road to zero carbon.

Therefore, in making this award to LEOPARD CREEK we also offer special congratulations to the club’s CEO Johan Piek and Course Manager Derek Muggeridge and their respective teams.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email ajcollier@telkomsa.net or visit the John Collier Website at www.johncolliergolf.com.

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

* Close to Kruger National Park. * Amazing scenery. * Surrounded by nature and Cheeky Vervet Monkeys. * Open Monday to Sunday.

Tel: (013) 790 0283 ~Cell: 076 906 3702 Email: admin@malgc.co.za R570 Riverside Farm Road, Mpumalanga 1320

Malelane Golf Club is a stunning 9 hole golf course that was founded in the 1960’s. The course was conceptualized in 1963. Construction began in 1967 and the first golf ball was teed-up on 15 March 1969. We are situated adjacent to the Kruger National Park, which makes for the perfect golfing breakaway. With a ‘parkland’ design and numerous beautiful indigenous trees located throughout the course, you are certain to experience the true Lowveld vibe. You will find that the course is in excellent condition throughout the year, thanks to our Greenkeeper, Mark Brits.

golfing experience. Our course is home to a prolific variation of birdlife. Baboons and monkeys are sure to keep a close eye on you as you play. You are also certain to hear the cry of the Fish Eagle at some point on the course. With the Kruger National Park a stone’s throw away, you are not short of options when it comes to the wild life experience. There are also choices of various close-by lodges and guest houses to accommodate your families and friends. We look forward to hosting you at Malelane Golf Club for a true golfing experience.

The course will be a test of any golfers’ capability with tight angles off the tee-box, beautifully curved dog-leg fairways and and greens prepared to the liking of The Masters. Look out for our Stroke 1 hole that could qualify for a par 5 on any course! Pull out your best Tiger Woods impersonation off the tee box for this one! Also be on the look out for our local Jonty, catching balls out the air as masterfully as the legend himself! You are most certain to walk off the course with a lot of stories to tell and a truly great

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

Situated on 12 acres of Komati river front wilderness, Komati River Chalets is one of the regions premier country accommodation providers offering self catering cottages. Restaurant, bar, pool and Chalets, are no more than 50m from the water's edge where pods of hippos and spectacular bird life will entertain you for hours on end.

T: +27 (0) 13 793 7623 | M: +27 (0) 347 4669 | E: info@komatiriverchalets.co.za

A unique golfing experience surrounded by nature and wildlife.

A challenge for any level of golfer.

Kambuka rated in top 5 best 9 hole Golf Courses. * Clubhouse *Kitchen & bar * Pro-shop *cloakroom

Tel: 082 888 0188 ~ Email manager@komatigolf.co.za ~ Website: www.komatigolf.co.za

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

Mabula Game Lodge

Exuding elegance and understated luxury

Mabula Game Lodge Exuding elegance and understated luxury, an Extraordinary encounter with South Africa’s bushveld awaits, located just two hours drive from Johannesburg in the ‘Malaria Free’ Waterberg region of the Limpopo Province. Diverse landscapes, including grassland plains and rocky outcrops create the ideal habitat for the free roaming Big Five. Distinctly African in style, Mabula Game Lodge offers comfortable suites with luxury finishings. The soft neutral bushveld colours are complemented by large windows which allow the African Bushveld indoors. World class cuisine in a

variety of dining venues, combines the enjoyment of rich tantalizing menus with the tranquillity of the bushveld. Numerous activities like open vehicle safaris, bush walks and horse trails ensure that Mabula is a place where memories are made.

www.mabula.com

Safari Plains Set against the backdrop of the magnificent Waterberg Mountain Range in the Limpopo Province, a mere two hours’ drive from Johannesburg. The exquisite beauty of its wide-open savannahs, free roaming Big 5 and spectacular vistas is an idyllic melting pot for a majestic wilderness destination.

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Each luxury tented suite is located along winding sand pathways, and commands a stunning space within the natural, indigenous bushveld. These safari-style tents offer the utmost comfort and an opulent ambience with private timber wrap-around decks. Safari Plains redefines luxury in the bush, with a magnificent high–ceiling dining room, elegant lounge, impressive bar, and relaxing spa. Explore the surrounding bushveld on open vehicle safaris, bush walks or horseback safaris. An outstanding big five safari experience awaits on the twelve thousand hectares private game reserve that is home to Safari Plains. www.safariplains.co.za

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

TWO NIGHT GOLF PACKAGE

R 4 142.00 PER PERSON SHARING R 5 904.00 PER SINGLE PERSON Inclusive of 2 nights accommodation in a Superior Room, 3 meals per day, 3 safaris and one 18 hole round of golf with cart. Rates exclude conservation levy, beverages and items of a personal nature.

R 6 080.00 PER PERSON SHARING R 8 740.00 PER SINGLE PERSON Inclusive of 2 nights accommodation in a Safari Tent, 3 meals per day, selected local beverages, 3 safaris and one 18 hole round of golf with cart. Rates exclude conservation levy, premium beverages and items of a personal nature.

VALID FOR SA RESIDENTS ONLY FOR TRAVEL UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER 2021. T&C’S APPLY +27 (0)11 516 4367 | RES@EXTRAORDINARY.CO.ZA | WWW.MABULA.COM | WWW.SAFARIPLAINS.CO.ZA

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F

In the heart of Limpopo Province, the jewel of the Waterberg, Koro Creek offers all the amenities of a golf resort. Great guest houses, nature and a true Bushveld Golf Course. Koro Creek is perfect for the family, couples or golf tours. Malaria-free and perfect golfing weather allow for unforgettable experiences on the championship course, four tee boxes offering varying challenges for golfers of all level. A welcome site at the end of the round is the lodge style clubhouse offering great dinning, the perfect setting for a sundowner after a round. Visit us soon to create more memories.

For bookings contact us on (014) 495 0030 / (014) 495 0026

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - G A M E F O R G O L F CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF

Golf estates abound in South Africa but few can

SIGNATURE SPA

match Zebula, a stunning and totally unique

GREAT RESTAURANTS

lifestyle destination in the magnificent malaria

LUXURY ACCOMMODATION

-free Waterberg region of Limpopo Province.

Legendary

www.zebula.co.za | proshop@zebula.co.za

Zebula Golf Estate and Spa is one of the best-rated golf courses in Limpopo and one of the few places in South Africa where you can play amongst an array of iconic South African Bushveld Animals. The course was build in 2003 and at that stage was called the Mabalingwe Country Club. Originally the course was only 9-holes. After the establishment of Zebula the full 18-hole course was created.

nines around as the 18th hole was seen as a better finishing hole. Many people have asked why the 17th dam is always empty and the answer is simple, the dam has a massive leak and they are working on repairs to ensure the 17th dam will be filled come summer.

What most people don’t know is that the back 9 holes was actually the front 9 and was developed first, once the other 9 was finished they swapped the 2 July | August 2021