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To the Editor
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Send us your letters, giving us your views, opinions or articles of interest (max 500 words). The most interesting letter will be published in the next edition of SA Golf Trader.
Dear Warren
As someone who has spent a lot of time complaining about Bryson DeChambeau, I think it’s undeniable that the game is significantly more interesting when he is involved.
At the U.S. Open, the fans were firmly in his corner. And why wouldn’t they be? Bryson is one of the only players of this generation who genuinely seems to care about the fan experience.
He is creating online content that a younger audience identifies with in a real way. He realises there is more to golf than playing it well and picking up a paycheck, and he has invested in that.
It seems like Bryson has used LIV to better himself and his golf game at the same time. Golf needs more characters like him.
Regards
Warren Newby
Bryson DeChambeau, an intense individual is playing extremely well at the moment and appears to be far more relaxed. He definitely seems to have flourished in all aspects after joining LIV Golf.
LIV, which is way more than exhibition golf, is very competitive and many days outshines the PGA in regard to play and competition.
The golfing world certainly needs Bryson, just as it needs Scottie Scheffler. The PGA and LIV must remember that they always need to put the customer first.
Regards
Part 6: Short Game conclusion
So, in concluding the short game series...
So, in concluding the short game series that we have been covering over the last year.
We have been through the basic Chip Shot (SAGT Vol. 119), how to set up and execute it. We have been through the dreaded Flop Shot (SAGT Vol. 120) and how to pull it off in those high-pressure situations. We went over the basic Bunker Shot (SAGT Vol. 121) and how to ensure you get yourself out of the sand trap consistently. We went over Putting (SAGT Vol. 122), how to set up for a putt and how to ensure you are saving shots on the green. Lastly, we discussed the Pitch Shot (SAGT Vol. 123) and how to ensure, when you have recovered from trouble, that you can still give yourself a chance at making par.
The Short Game important. A short much as a 300m
The easiest way would be improving are won on and
Research and statistics world, Scottie the
greens with Mcilroy is first
Karl Lehmacher –BSI Coach
SHORT GAME
Game is vitally important in golf, if not the most short putt or a basic chip adds up to just as 300m drive.
way to shave shots off your final score-card improving your short game. Golf tournaments and around the green.
statistics don’t lie, the best golfer in the Scheffler, has the best putting average on with an average of 1.687 Putts per Green. Rory in Strokes Gained off the tee. He is first in
Strokes Gained - Driving and Strokes GainedDriving Distance. However, he is only 11th in Strokes GainedPutting and 34th in Strokes GainedScrambling. If he improved those stats he would contend every week. Prior to this year’s US Open, Rory made 483/483 putts from inside 3ft. In the US Open, he missed a 2ft putt on the 70th hole of the tournament to lose the lead to putt him level with Bryson. He then proceeded to miss a 4ft par putt on the last hole of the tournament to lose by 1 shot. It was a heartbreaking moment for the Northern Irish golfer, but it just shows how important the short game side of golf is.
You should not put high expectations on yourself in terms of your golf scores and game. You can build your confidence in your game by knowing that you have a good, solid short game and that no matter what situation you find yourself in, you should always be able to back yourself to execute the chip or bunker shot. Through the correct set-up and basics, and plenty of practice, you should build enough confidence to pull off the shots on the golf course without any expectation.
For more information on the Balderstone Sports Institute, or if you would like to put these tips into practice with our coaches, please feel free to contact us at info@bsisports. com or go to our website www.bsisports.com.
Happy Golfing!!
Glenvista Countr y Club
NEWS CLIP
ANGEL CABRERA: FORMER MASTERS
CHAMPION EARNS FIRST WIN SINCE RELEASE FROM PRISON AT PAUL LAWRIE MATCH PLAY
Argentina’s Angel Cabrera beat James Kingston 3&1 in the Paul Lawrie Match Play final; Two-time major champion’s victory was his maiden Legends Tour title and first win since his release from prison last year.
Two-time major winner Angel Cabrera secure a first victory since his release from prison with an
impressive win at the Paul Lawrie Match Play.
Cabrera, who won the US Open in 2007 and The Masters in 2009, beat South African James Kingston 3 and 1 in the final of the Legends Tour event at Hanbury Manor last month.
continued from page 11...
The 54-year-old Argentinian was convicted in 2021 of assault, theft and legal intimidation of former partner Cecilia Torres Mana and assault of another former partner, Micaela Escudero. He spent a total of 30 months in prison.
In an interview with Golf Digest following his release in August last year, Cabrera said: “I refused to listen to anyone and did what I wanted, how I wanted and when I wanted. That was wrong.
“I ask Micaela for forgiveness. I ask Celia for forgiveness. They had the bad luck of being with me when I was at my worst. I wasn’t the devil,
but I did bad things. I am deeply embarrassed because I disappointed the people closest to me and everyone who loves me through golf.
“Golf gave me everything and I know I will never be able to repay the debt I owe this sport.”
Speaking after his win over Kingston in the Legends Tour event, Cabrera said: “I’m very happy. I worked hard in the last three months, very hard for this. Now, for this moment, I enjoyed it.
“I can say I feel very emotional now. I am going to play next week and then I have to keep working, I’ve got to keep working because this game is very difficult.
SATURDAY PM
BEZUIDENHOUT AND VAN ROOYEN PUNCH TICKETS TO OLYMPICS 2024
The conclusion of the US Open marked the end of the qualifying period for the golf competition at this year’s Paris Olympics.
The battle for the gold medal is set to take place between 1-4 August at Le Golf National.
In total 60 golfers will vie for the coveted medals on offer.
Qualification is strict. Here’s how it works:
• Top 15 in the official world golf rankings are eligible
• No more than four players can be selected from a given nation
• Outside the top 15, “players will be eligible based on the world rankings, with a maximum of two eligible players from each
country that does not already have two or more players among the top 15”
Durban-born Rory Sabbatini, who represented Slovakia in Tokyo, won the silver medal, while Pan Cheng-tsung of Chinese Taipei took home the bronze medal.
In total, 31 countries will be represented.
Apart from the United States’ four representatives, no other country has more than two players playing.
South Africa will be represented by Christiaan Bezuidenhout and Erik van Rooyen. Bezuidenhout is currently ranked 40th in the world, with Van Rooyen in 67th spot.
KNOW YOUR RULES
Rule 6 (New) Substituting the ball.
VILJOEN BAGS THIRD SUNSHINE TOUR TITLE AT MOPANI ZAMBIA OPEN
Overnight leader MJ Viljoen went out in three-under 33 but would follow that with an even better four-under-par 32 coming in, to cruise to a six-stroke victory in the Mopani Zambia Open at Nkana GC last month.
Viljoen’s brilliant final-round 65 lifted him to 16-under-par for the R2.5 million event, well clear of local favourite Dayne Moore, who shot 70 on the Sunday to finish on 10-under-par.
The Serengeti Estates golfer has not won since September 2022 and his emotional triumph follows a tough time in which he finished 64th in last season’s Order of Merit delivered by The Courier Guy, the first time
he had finished outside the top-30 since 2018/19.
“I needed this win big time and I am very proud of myself for pulling it through. I’ve worked hard for the last few months and it feels really good to get this result. I lost a lot of playing rights last season, so it’s really good to be back in the winner’s circle,” Viljoen said.
The 29-year-old had started the final round with a one-stroke lead over Jacques P. de Villiers and Moore, with the next closest contenders being five strokes back in
continued on page 20...
NEWS CLIP
MORNING SPECIAL
General Enquiries:012 386 6805 / 36
Email to: admin@pretoriagolfclub.co.za
continued from page 19...
NEWS CLIP
Heinrich Bruiners, Fredrik From and Kyle Barker.
Having secured an albatross on the fourth on the first day, he birdied the 484m par-five in the last two rounds, and he said his shots on that hole will be one of his favourite memories when he thinks back on his third Sunshine Tour title.
“My shots on four, I almost had a hole-in-one today on the seventh, and the eagle on 17 nearly went in for another albatross, those will be my favourite memories. And also the fans. I played with Dayne Moore on Saturday and so many youngsters were following us around, there was just noise all the time and it was awesome,” Viljoen said.
Zambia’s Moore birdied the first hole to draw level with Viljoen on nine-under,
but was four behind by the turn, having dropped a shot on the par-four eighth. A birdie on the 10th saw a two-shot swing and he matched Viljoen with birdies on the 11th and 12th holes, but bogeys on 13 and 16 were his undoing.
Despite an eagle on the par-five 12th, De Villiers battled to build momentum as he mixed two bogeys and a double on the last with three birdies, posting a 71 that left him in third place on nine-under-par.
South Africans Daniel van Tonder (-6) and Barker (-5) rounded out the top five.
LINN GRANT MAKES HISTORY WITH SECOND
DP WORLD TOUR GOLF TITLE
In a remarkable turn of events on the back-nine, Sebastian Soberberg’s collapse paved the way for Linn Grant to secure another victory in the Scandinavian Mixed on the DP World Tour.
Despite holding an eight-shot lead after 54 holes at Vasatorps GC in Sweden, and leading Grant by 11 shots at the beginning of the final round, Soberberg faltered on the last six holes, finishing four-over and relinquishing the title in stunning fashion. Grant staged the largest final-round comeback in the history of the DP World Tour.
Soberberg’s collapse reached its climax with a missed short putt on the 72nd hole,
narrowly avoiding a playoff as the ball horseshoed around the cup and stayed out. Grant learned of her victory for the second time in three years while on the driving range in Helsingborg, as Soberberg appeared visibly disappointed.
“I’m so surprised,” Grant said. “Standing here, now as a winner again in my hometown. Amazing.” At this event two years ago, the 24-year-old made history as the inaugural female winner on the DP World Tour. Additionally, she has secured one victory on the LPGA Tour.
continued on page 24...
NEWS CLIP
continued from page 23...
“Honestly I just tried to go out today and give myself an opportunity. I didn’t even think that I had the chance of winning – 11 shots is a huge gap,” she added. “So I just wanted to go out, have fun and make as many birdies as possible. And enjoy it with my brother on the bag and being at home. It turned out to be an incredible day.”
On track to secure his second DP World Tour title, Soderberg notched two birdies and two bogeys in his initial seven holes, with a third bogey on the eighth narrowing the gap to the field. Grant exhibited sensational performance in front of her home audience on Sunday. She recorded six birdies within 10 holes and executed a chip-in for another birdie on the 18th hole, establishing a clubhouse lead of 17-under.
With a one-shot lead at 18-under, Soberberg positioned his tee shot in the
fairway on the par-4 18th hole. However, his second shot became lodged in a greenside bunker. As a result, he made double on the hole, concluding with a 77. Grant clinched victory with an impressive 65.
“It’s amazing playing on home soil and seeing a lot of players play so well,” Grant added. “I think it shows all the fans coming out here that we really enjoy playing at home. We’re all very happy at the moment. Just finding a way to celebrate tonight and have a nice week off.”
NEWS CLIP
LEXI THOMPSON TO RETIRE FROM FULL-TIME LPGA SCHEDULE AT END OF 2024
Lexi Thompson announced in June that this LPGA season will be her last as a full-time competitor.
The surprising announcement came on the eve of the U.S. Women’s Open, where the one-time child prodigy is now making her 18th consecutive appearance.
“Golf has been my life ever since I was 5 years old. I haven’t known much of a life different, but it’s been an amazing one,” Thompson said in a news conference at Lancaster CC. “This sport has taught me a lot, and I’ve learned so much along the way, built so many friendships and relationships. I’m looking forward to what life has in store.”
Thompson, who turns 30 next year, has been one of the headliners in the women’s game ever since she burst onto the scene as a tall, powerful teenager and prodigious talent.
After turning professional in 2010, Thompson set what was then a record for the youngest winner of an LPGA event, when she captured the 2011 Navistar Classic at the age of 16. After the LPGA rewrote its age-requirement rules to grant her full membership, she won three events in the next two years, including the 2014 Kraft Nabisco Championship (now called the Chevron Championship) for her lone major title.
In all, Thompson has won 11 times on tour, though not since 2019. “She’s had such an amazing career,” said world No. 1 Nelly Korda, who has played on three Solheim Cup teams with Thompson. “It’s sad to see that she’s obviously leaving and not going to be
out here with us anymore, but she’s had an amazing career, and I wish her the best in this new chapter of her life.”
Thompson, in her 14th full season on tour, said she contemplated stepping away during the past few years but the timing was never right. When asked why she was making the decision to retire now, she said there wasn’t one overriding factor – it’s just where she is in her life and career. She also didn’t rule out playing a limited number of events moving forward, adding that she’s taking it “day by day right now. I’m just looking forward to what life has in store other than golf.”
With eight career top-3s in majors, A six-time Solheim Cup participant and two-time U.S. Olympian, the big-hitting Thompson remained a fixture in the top 10 of the Rolex Rankings throughout the 2010s.
Lexi’s remarkable career and the way she has conducted herself both on and off the course have inspired countless girls around the world to pursue their goals with passion and perseverance.”
Only an hours drive from Johannesburg and situated on the banks of the Vaal River, Vaal de Gráce Golf Estate promises a novel kind of lifestyle experience, second to none.
winter wonderland
KNOW YOUR GOLF CLUB’S GENERAL MANAGER
Hardus Maritz
General Manager - Ebotse Links
You have been in the golf industry for a long time now, what made you choose this career ?
I started playing golf when I was 12 years old, and quickly excelled in golf. I won the Cape Province Championships in 1999 at PE Golf Club, where I was the assistant greenkeeper. My goal was to become a professional golfer, but as we know it is not easy, and I decided to pursue a career in greenkeeping, and never looked back.
Did you ever have a mentor or someone you looked up to ?
In the turf industry I had 3 mentors, Jock Tame, Mike Wallington and Peter Matcovich. From a General Manager point of view, I looked up to Peet De Wet and Paul Leishman.
You were a golf course superintendent at various courses before taking up the managerial position at Ebotse Links, why the change ?
I have worked at some of the best golf courses in the country, had my own turf maintenance business, there is only so much you can do, and when I got the opportunity of becoming the GM at Ebotse Links, I grabbed the opportunity with both hands.
Describe a typical workday for you at Ebotse Links ?
I spent a lot of my time on the golf course with our greenkeeper, Bethuel Moyo. Our golf course is our biggest asset, and it is important to ensure the golf course is in good condition all the time. I also spent a lot of time with our Golf Director, John Woudberg, to discuss the week ahead and ensure we fill the golf course. When I took over as the GM in 2017, I realized very quickly you need to ensure you look after the financials daily, income and expense in this industry is vital, much of my time is spent on how to improve the business and ensuring we make profits.
What are your biggest challenges currently at Ebotse Links?
Ebotse Golf & Country Estate was built on an old mine quarry, unfortunately the soil is not brilliant, so we are constantly looking at ways to improve our growing medium. And then finances, everything is getting more expensive these days, so we must look at ways to improve our bottom line
Has the hospitality industry grown in your opinion over the last 3 years ?
Yes, I do believe the hospitality industry has grown in the past years, we are fortunate to have Doppio Zero running our food and beverage at Ebotse, they have made a big difference to our service delivery. Golf is on the rise, it is so great to see so many people taking up the game, which is important for the golf industry.
Does your position require you to be available on weekends, evenings, and holidays, and if so, does this place demands on your personal life ?
In the golf industry you work long hours, it is important that you have well trained staff to ensure they can do the job when you are not on duty. I always say you are only as good as the people working for you. I suppose you also get used to the job, and you learn how to deal with working long hours, golf is my passion, and to wake up every morning doing what I love, lets me live out my passion.
What are your short & long term goals ?
I think I have achieved my short-term goal, when I was appointed as the GM of Ebotse Links, long term goal is to excel in my position and to keep on improving by studying further and learning from my peers.
With consumers already being careful on how they spend their money these days, what is your plan to attract people to Ebotse Links ?
Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays were always very quiet at Ebotse, when I took over my team and I looked at ways to attract more people on these days, and with the current Monday Special, Tuesday Open Day, and Senior Wednesdays we are attracting many players to Ebotse.
In your opinion, what factors contribute to excellent customer service ?
Communication, listen to your customers and ensuring your staff are well trained.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time
I love fly fishing, like golf you must have good tempo, and there is never a dull moment, you always busy.
Do you still get time to play some golf ?
Yes, I do, I am playing of a 2 handicap currently, and still love to compete. I always encourage my staff to play golf, golf is our business, and you need to understand the challenges we face daily, and you only realize this when you play the game yourself.
BRYSON DECHAMBEAU WINS
SECONDU.S.
OPEN
Bryson DeChambeau won his second U.S. Open title as he overcame the challenge of Rory McIlroy on a dramatic afternoon at Pinehurst Resort & CC.
The home favourite entered the final day with a three-shot lead but found himself two behind as McIlroy made three birdies in four holes after the turn before the Northern Irishman gave them back, making a bogey on the last in a 69.
That meant DeChambeau needed a par up the last and despite hitting a ragged drive and finding sand with his second, he completed a stunning up-anddown to sign for a 71 and finish at six under, one clear of McIlroy.
American duo
of years ago and this one is for him.
“Also to Payne Stewart, he was the reason why I went to SMU. He’s the reason why I wore the cap.
“I can’t believe that up-and-down on the last, that was probably the best shot of my life. That’s huge to get up and down and win this prestigious championship –that will be the highlight of my life.”
Patrick Cantlay and Tony Finau were then at four under, one clear of Frenchman Matthieu Pavon.
DeChambeau won his first Major at this event in 2020 and doubles his tally having finished sixth at the Masters Tournament and second at the US PGA Championship this season.
“I want to say happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there,” said DeChambeau. “Unfortunately my dad passed a couple
“I’m so happy I got that shot up-and-down on 18. Oh, man, I didn’t want to finish second again. PGA really stung. Xander played magnificent.
“I wanted to get this one done, especially at such a special place that means so much to me, SMU, my dad, what Payne meant to him, 1000th USGA championship. Stack them on top.
“That bunker shot was the shot of my life. I’ll forever be thankful that I’ve got longer wedges so I can hit it farther, get it up there next to the hole (smiling).
“I don’t know what to think. It fully hasn’t sunk in yet. I just want everybody to enjoy it, as well. As much as it is heartbreaking for some people, it was heartbreak for me at the PGA. I really wanted this one.”
“THE
Jack Nicklaus
BANKENVELD GOLF
–
WITBANKS HIDDEN
Formerly a farm called Doornpoort, Bankenveld is a beautiful Witbank Dam and Nature Reserve, with a Douw van der golf course. Construction of the course began in 2008, visitors a month later were members of the Italian rugby Springboks in Witbank.
The clubhouse was completed in September 2014 and With its own entrance, separate from the residential clubhouse is on an elevated point of the property
The golf course has four holes built along the banks have notable views over the estate. The opening converts to a 410-metre par 4 on the second nine. and some interestingly shaped greens. Golf carts are preferred over walking as the countryside over undulating terrain, away from be seen here. These holes are among metres climbing uphill to the over the surrounding land. the eco estate and the par 4, and No 13 is a No 5/14 is a beautiful green with the dam 185 metres. The next shoreline, Number 8th/17th is a short (continued overleaf)
GOLF CLUB
HIDDEN GEM
beautiful residential estate overlooking the der Merwe designed 9-hole championship and it opened in May 2010. Among the first rugby team who played a Test match against the
and opened by Springbok legend Frik du Preez. residential estate, the golf club is easy to access. The and has a lovely restaurant attached to it.
banks of the dam, and the opening holes before them opening hole is a reachable par 5 playing downhill which nine. A feature of the layout is the variety of tee boxes,
opening four holes negotiate rural grassland from the residential homes. Various species of buck can among the longest on the course, the par-5 third being 480 the green. On the high fourth tee golfers have superb views land. This is a steeply downhill dogleg left hole heading towards the Witbank Dam. The first time round it plays as a 410-metre a 484-metre par 5.
beautiful par 3 played from elevated tees down towards a large dam as a backdrop. Tees range in length from 110 to next two holes are par 4s which hug the Number 7 being a stroke 1 at 413 metres. The par 3 played over wetlands and a water hazard. overleaf)
SPECIAL FEATURE - BANKENVELD
The round ends with a strong uphill par 4 back towards the clubhouse, 356 metres at No 9 and 385 metres at No 18. There’s a wetland area on the left of the fairway and a hidden pond to the left of the green.
Bankenveld has a Par 3 course for the 9/18 holes, using forward tees, a full-size driving range, a short-game facility with two big greens (one for putting and one for chipping) and designer Douw van der Merwe originally laid out 18 holes on the property (only nine holes were built) so there is plenty of unused space.
Bankenveld Golf Club is a safe, family orientated golf club that gears its services toward accommodating all members of the family. This vision is perfectly encapsulated by their logo which consists of four roaming elephants. Elephants are a strong family orientated species. The strong family structure is emphasized by the elephants grouped together as a family and of course the Oliphants river runs through the Witbank dam.
When did you realise that turf management was the industry you want to take further?
This happened by chance. Being the club captain for the past five years, our manager/greenkeeper resigned. What started as overseeing things until we found someone for the position turned into my full-time job. Being in corporate, working for a well-known motor vehicle brand dealership for over thirty years, and now working on a golf course was something to get used to, but I enjoy every moment of it. Since working full-time at Bankenveld Golf Club, I completed my International Golf Course Management Qualification through the African Turf Academy. I am also completing my Equipment Management Certificate through the Golf Course Superintendent’s Association of America.
What is the best and worst part of being a golf course superintendent?
The best part is the early morning starts on the course and seeing the sunrise over the course with the Witbank Dam as background and animals roaming the course. I also enjoy it when one can see the progress being made and the players enjoying the condition of the course. The worst part is probably the unexpected when machinery breaks or when animals damage a green, and one has to adjust the planned work of the day.
You are at Bankenveld GC, which is a nine hole golf course, what are the pro’s and con’s from your point of view being a nine hole golf course?
The pro is that there is less maintenance, although we still have the same tee boxes as an 18-hole course. We also have an 18-hole par 3 course with its own tee boxes. The cons are the course can become quite busy, and the greens can take some strain. We cannot host big tournaments due to us not being an 18-hole course.
The game on the golf course must cause some headaches every now and then, how do you manage this at Bankenveld GC?
Yes, from time to time, they do cause some damage, but we have portable electric fences that we erect at night to protect the greens. Sometimes, they do break through and damage the greens, but then we have no other choice but to fix it as soon as possible without interrupting the golfer’s game. Overall, we do manage around the game being on the course, and they do make
for some beautiful views when playing (We have more than ten buck species roaming the course).
What are the differences in grasses (fairway, rough, greens) at Bankenveld GC to other parts of the country?
We have Creeping Bentgrass on our greens and Kikuyu on the tee boxes and fairways. Every golf course has the turf that is best for its area/climate and what works for them. Turf, which requires high maintenance on different parts of the course, can also have a financial impact on the club.
How big a difference does climate and location play in golf course maintenance?
Climate and location definitely do play a roll. We are on the highveld with frost in the winter, which do affect the mowing of the greens in the morning. We are also situated right next to the Witbank Dam, and four holes run directly along the dam. This does have an effect on the soil of those holes and during the rainy season when the water table rises. The course is also quite hilly, and three holes are on a hill with heavy slopes and strong winds. One needs to monitor these greens carefully, as the wind does have an impact on them. Managing irrigation is also important with our location and the contours of the course.
Do you think it should be mandatory for each golf courses to close one day per week for maintenance?
I think it is necessary for bigger courses, which are very busy, making maintenance difficult. We work around it and are open on Mondays, with the first tee time at 10 a.m. We start early on a Monday and get a good headstart when the first golfers arrive at 10.
Do maintenance staff ever come into conflict
with golfers, and how do you deal with this?
One needs to constantly train and educate the staff. We try our best to work around golfers and not get involved or get too close to them when they play, which can be a challenge. Our course is also on an estate, and one needs to take the residents into consideration when doing maintenance, especially over weekends and public holidays. Luckily, we have a very good relationship with our members and residents, and if something does happen, we aim to sort it out immediately.
How important is it for golfers to repair their divots and pitch marks immediately vs only a couple of days or week later?
It is very important to fix your pitch immediately, and unfortunately, this is still a problem. Some of our maintenance staff stay at the staff quarters on the course. When they put up the MEPs (Electric fencing) around the greens in the afternoon, they do a quick walkabout and fix pitch marks before the next day. Not fixing it immediately can cause the turf to take much longer to recover.
People always complain about inconsistent bunkers, how difficult is it to maintain consistent bunkers and do you implement general checks and how?
It is a challenge, especially with the bunkers at the holes on the hilly area where strong winds play a major role. We check the depth of the bunkers regularly to maintain the correct levels and also do bunker maintenance in the winter, checking and cleaning the drainage system. It is also important to use a company that supplies high-quality sand.
BEHINDTHESCENES with... from
What is your position at Pinnacle Point? Clubhouse, events and liaison manager.
How do you handle a rude Always allow them to talk, often platform to be heard and allowing situations. See what I can do brought about the ‘rudeness’.
How long have you been working at Pinnacle Point? 16 years.
What were you doing before this? I had my own pizza restaurant.
Describe a typical day at work. I walk around the clubhouse, checking that everything is in order, greeting people, checking on any functions, menus for the day, golf events and then to the computer where I catch up on admin etc. Throughout the day I keep checking in on the kitchen, the flow of the food, then to the restaurant, is everyone happy? Observing the staff, ensuring that they are doing what they are supposed to do etc.
If there is a conference, function planned, I check all the arrangements to see that everything is going according to plan and then back to admin. There is a fair amount of walking from the halfway house to the restaurant, upper bar and the La Vita Spa.
What do you enjoy most about working at Pinnacle Point?
The people, interacting with all kinds of people.
I will tell you that people take seriously, hahaha more than
Do you play golf? Yes, but not often enough, not
Do you play any other sports?
I cycle, run and swim, some hockey tennis, oh and I enjoy the odd
with...MichelleParsons fromPinnaclePoint
customer?
often people just want a allowing them to talk diffuses do to resolve the issue that ‘rudeness’.
take a grey-haired Tannie very than when I was a brunette!
not enough time.
sports?
hockey if I get a chance and odd game of bowls.
Have you met any famous golfers whilst working at Pinnacle Point?
There have been a few. I unfortunately missed Gary Player when he was at Pinnacle, but I had the privilege of meeting him and his late wife Vivienne at Fancourt once.
Who is your favourite golfer?
Gary Player without a doubt.
What music are you into?
All sorts and I listen to a vast array spanning all the years.
How do you relax?
Cycling, otherwise on my couch and I watch telly or read.
RESULTS & RANKINGS
RESULTS & RANKINGS
Sunshine Tour
JULY 2024 24 - 26 SunBet Challenge Wild Coast Sun CC AUGUST 2024
1 - 3 FNB Eswatini Challenge Nkonyeni GE
16 - 18 Vodacom Origins of Golf Highland GE 21 - 23 SunBet Challenge Wingate Park CC
28 - 30 Gary & Vivienne Player Challenge Kyalami CC
Limpopo Open Stroke Play Championship Koro Creek GC
19 - 21 Border Stroke Play East London GC
22 - 23 SA High Schools Championship (Boys and Girls) Worcester GC 23 - 24
Ernie Els SA Primary Schools Championship Waterkloof GC (Boys and Girls)
9 - 11
- 18 KZN Amateur
Shepstone CC 15 - 16 NOMADS North & South Junior Championship Pecanwood GE
17 - 18 Mpumalanga Senior Open Middelburg CC
18 North West Mid-Amateur Open Potchefstoom GC
22 - 23
25 Boland Mid-Amateur Open De Zalze GE
31 - 1 Sep North West Senior Open Orkney GC
SEPTEMBER 2024
6 - 8 Mpumalanga Open Middelburg CC
EVENTS CALENDAR
JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2024
Amateur events - Women
5
LINKS , HAZARDS & FAIRWAYS
Our May/June
2. Do professionals analyse slumps? (6)
5. Pinnacle. Copy unknown symbol (4)
8. Golf club socket adjusted the holes (5)
9. Golfers place in the standings (7)
11. Gavin Green’s country (8)
14. A keen golfer, Jimmy played soccer for Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana (3)
16. He won the Travelers Championship in 2021 with a birdie on the eighth playoff hole against Kramer Hickok. It was the second longest playoff in PGA Tour history (6, 7)
18. He has not played in a PGA Tour event since an injury in 2012, he returned to professional golf in 2024, playing for LIV Golf (3)
DOWN
1. In 2024 , this Spanish golfer was ranked the world’s second highest paid athlete by Forbes Magazine. It did him no harm (4)
20. Sharp drop (8)
22. He won his first Senior tournament in 2010 at the Sicilian Senior Open (7)
23. Leaks maybe on Mount Edgecombe CC two (5)
24. Part of the golf club that strikes the ball (4)
25. Son of the Big Easy (3, 3)
2. Misery of French couple (7)
3. Unrefined resource found on sand greens (3)
4. Country Club on the KZN south coast that boasts a Syd Brews designed, Parklands golf course (4, 9)
6. Pinnacle, heading for headland in Mossel Bay (5)
7. Made greater (8)
10. Teaghan _ _ _ _ _ _ graduated to the Sunshine Tour in 2016 (6)
12. Putting in position (8)
15. Blew a five-stroke lead, say (6)
17. Calls upon (7)
19. Imitate (5)
21. Castletown Golf Links is located at the southeastern tip of the _ _ _ _ of Man (4)
23. Tell a story about the position of a golf ball (3)
edition winner was Nickus Robbertse
THE PLAYERS TO HAVE REACHED 500 APPEARANCES ON THE DP WORLD TOUR
Jamie Donaldson made his 500th appearance at last months KLM Open, we take a look at the full list of players who have also reached the same milestone on the DP World Tour.
In the 52 year long history of the DP World Tour, there have been 7,584 players that have competed in at least one event. While roughly ten percent of those have reached the milestone of 100 events, the number of players who have longevity enough to reach the summit of 500 is just 47. More than that, and the number dwindles further, underlining just how much of an achievement it is to achieve such longevity in the game.
David Howell currently leads the way in appearances on 723, but he is just one of
four to have reach that impressive number - with Soren Kjeldsen the most recent addition to that list.
The three-time DP World Tour winner Jamie Donaldson made his 500th appearance at the KLM Open at the age of 48, and become the 47th player in history to do so.
It comes 28 years after Carl Mason became the first player to reach the milestone at the 1996 BMW International Open, at the age of 42.
Click below for the The DP World Tour’s 500 Club list
THIS SPECIAL WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING IN THE PACKAGE: START THE PEGC EXPERIENCE WITH A JACKS COFFEE/CAPUCHINO ONE PER PLAYER A ROUND OF GOLF (18 HOLES AT PEGC)X 4 PLAYERS HALFWAY MEAL VOUCHER TO THE VALUE OF R75 PER PLAYER 2 CARTS INCLUDED AFTER GOLF - 4X HILL LAGER AFTER GOLF - 2 PEGC PIZZAS
THIS SPECIAL WILL BE VALID FROM 1ST JUNE - 31 AUGUST 2024
Wedgewood Golf and Country Estate is on the rapid growing outskirts of Port Elizabeth. A brand new shopping mall, top schools and a fast growing network of residential estates promise owners a bustling extension of Port Elizabeth City in the near future. What makes Wedgewood different? That you'll have to come and see. Once one stands here amongst trees, lakes and everything beautiful mother nature offers, it really makes sense. It's country living with all the convenience of city life.
Gr een fee r ates fr om 1 Januar y 2024 Members at R250 and R390 per visitor 18. R390 per cart.
Contact details: Pro shop – 0414509595 or 0787035707 operations@wedgewoodgolf.co.za admin@wedgewoodgolf.co.za
ERNIE ELS SHOOTS 65, WINS PRINCIPAL CHARITY CLASSIC
BY TWO STROKES
Tied for the lead entering the final round, Ernie Els shot a 7-under 65 on the Sunday to win by two strokes at the Principal Charity Classic in Des Moines, Iowa.
Els, 54, finished at 21-under 195 at Wakonda Club to seal his first Champions Tour win this season in his fourth appearance at the event.
Els sank a pair of birdies on the front nine, then heated up on the back with three more. He also picked up an eagle on the par-5 13th to give him some breathing room.
“It’s very special,” said Els, who entered the Principal Charity Classic 16th in the Schwab Cup Standings through eight events. “I haven’t won for a while. I’ve had quite a few chances, but it gets tougher when you don’t get it over the line.”
back nine, that was key. It got me into a two-shot lead.”
Els, who will take home $300 000, has three top-10 finishes this season.
After the front nine, Els, Ames, Bernhard Langer of Germany and Rod Pampling of Australia were tied for the lead. Pampling and Els had shared the lead after the Saturday’s second round.
Ames, who had four birdies and a bogey on the front nine, birdied Nos. 10 and 11 before adding a birdie on No 15. But with Els’ success on the back nine, Ames couldn’t catch up and finished at 19-under 197.
Feeling the push from second-place finisher and defending champion Stephen Ames (66 on Sunday) of Canada and others, Els stressed the importance of his timely success on 13.
“I was lucky enough to make birdie on 11,” he said. “I didn’t hit a very good approach, I hit a good putt. And then 12, but 13 was big. To make eagle late on the
“We changed a couple things in my routine and kind of triggered everything off for me, started feeling the putts a lot better,” said Ames, who felt his swing was off at the event and had his first putting lesson this week. “I hit some really good putts coming down the end and all week, so I was very happy with that result.”
Pampling (69), David Duval (67) and Langer (68) finished in a three-way tie for third at 17 under.
Vijay Singh of Fiji (68) and Heath Slocum (67) tied for sixth at 16 under.
ELS GOES BACK TO BACK, WINNING AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE CHAMPIONSHIP
Ernie Els’ strong 2024 season continued in June winning the American Family Insurance Championship in a playoff for his second straight PGA TOUR Champions victory.
In a word, the finish to the American Family Insurance Championship was, well, shocking. There stood Steve Stricker, one of the best putters in the game, the hometown hero, standing over a three-footer on the first play-off hole against Ernie Els to extend their playoff to another hole.
Steve Stricker, three feet? A mere formality, right? Around the green, fans were buzzing, expecting another bonus hole.
But this is golf, and golf can be cruel just as often as it wants to follow the anticipated script. With Els already in for par, Stricker pulled the putter back to match him, kept the blade slightly open, and his par putt carrying too much pace spun off the right edge of the hole. There would not be another playoff hole. No more golf on this day.
“What can I say?” Els told Golf Channel’s John Cook just off the edge of the 18th green, the title now his. “I’m just shocked right now. I really feel for Steve. What a great guy.”
“I just gave him a hug really, and
I just said, ‘I’m sorry.’”
For Els, Sunday marked his fourth consecutive start where he entered the final round with a chance to win. At the Regions Tradition and KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship, it didn’t happen for him. But the last two weeks in Iowa and Wisconsin, it did. He’s the first Champions Tour player to win back-to-back since Stricker a year ago.
Els won for the fifth time as a member of PGA Tour Champions, adding to the championship he captured in Des Moines (Principal Charity Classic) one week earlier.
With the win, Els moves to third in the Schwab Cup standings.
&
R420 per player sharing a cart
BETWAY TAKES OVER BIG EASY TOUR NAMING RIGHTS
South Africa’s leading online sports and gaming brand, Betway, is proud to be announced as the new title partner of the Big Easy Tour which is the feeder circuit of the Sunshine Tour for the upcoming season.
The Tour will now be known as the Betway Big Easy Tour and will feature ten 54-hole tournaments, a Play-Off event and a Grand Final. Having already been involved with professional golf in various capacities, including player sponsorships and supporting the Papwa Sewgolum Transformation Class, Betway is no stranger to the professional golf in South Africa.
Sharing the brand’s views on its exciting new partnership with the Big Easy Tour, Betway’s Head of Marketing, Mark Rowles said that as a brand, Betway is proud to be partners with the Big Easy Tour.
“Being a partner of the Big Easy Tour is an initiative that bodes well with the values that we stand for as a brand,” said Rowles.
“We have spearheaded a number of community sports initiatives that continue to yield incredible results in the communities that we serve. We are hoping that through our investment the Betway
continued on page 70...
NEWS CLIP
NEWS CLIP
continued from page 68..
Big Easy Tour will continue to unearth the next heroes of South African golf.”
Formed back in 2011 with the support of the legendary Ernie Els, the Betway Big Easy Tour has been at the forefront of producing world-class golfers who have gone on to compete on the biggest stages in world golf. Among such players is Christiaan Bezuidenhout who went on to win the Investec South African Open Championship.
Each of the 10 regular-season tournaments will carry prize money of R150 000 while The Play-Off tournament, which is the penultimate event of the season and will see only the top 50 players on the Order of Merit, will carry a purse of R250 000. In the
final, only the top 30 players will compete for a grand prize of R300 000.
At the end of the season, the top 12 players on the Order of Merit will earn themselves Sunshine Tour cards while the top six transformation players on the standings will also earn their main Tour playing privileges.
The first event of the new season will be held at Benoni CC from June 25 to June 27.
The Big Easy Tour was founded in 2011 with support from Ernie Els.
Built on steep rolling terrain, through valleys and over hills, Prince’s Grant is a visual feast and an entertainingly varied challenge. Lots of unique looking holes, some in tropical surroundings among the coastal bush, others on higher ground being links-like in appearance.
The clubhouse and lodge is a magnificent double-storey building occupying a prime position with sea views, and bears a striking resemblance to that at Shinnecock Hills in the United States.
A wonderful year-round destination, golfers are lured here in winter by clear, windless days and warm temperatures.
Ingredients
S eet Pastr
g cake flo r
g b er
g icing s gar eggs ml anilla essence
Method
S eet Pastr :
Filling
Recipe
From the Kitchen:
Chocolate Pepper mint Tar t SIMBITHI COUNTRY CLUB
g Bakels dark chocolate
g dark co ert re
g gl cose s r p
ml Millac Gold baking cream
slabs peppermint chocolate
ml hipped cream
g hite s gar
ml anilla essence
ml peppermint essence
. Place all the ingredients into a mi er and, sing a flat beater, mi on medi m speed n l the do gh is ell combined.
. Press into a tart dish/pan and bake at degrees for - min tes.
. Set aside to cool.
Filling:
. Boil the baking cream in a sa cepan on medi m heat.
. Place the chocolate and co ert re into a mi ing bo l ith the gl cose s r p.
. Once the cream boils, po r it into the mi ing bo l o er the chocolate. S r ith a hisk n l smooth.
. Add in the peppermint essence, and then fold in ro ghl chopped peppermint chocolate. Set this aside.
. Whip cream in a mi er, sing the hisk a achment. Add in s gar and anilla essence and fold in finel chopped peppermint chocolate.
. Po r the chocolate mi t re onto the cooled pastr .
. Let set in the 'fridge for min tes, or n l the chocolate has hardened.
. Garnish, and enjo !
Located on the North Coast of K aZ l -Natal, Simbithi Co ntr Cl b is not onl the heart of Simbithi Eco-Estate, b t of the greater comm nit . Anchored b the a ard- inning hole e ec e golf co rse, designed b the reno ned Peter Matko ich, the Cl b offers an e cep onal game of golf and… ith the famil -oriented Fig Tree Resta rant and trend Drop Zone Bar, there is tr l something for e er one.
The Cl b is also home to three m l -faceted e ent en es, incl ding the -seater, glassed- alled Pa ilion Room, ersa le Dragonfl Conference Centre and the bespoke Simbithi Galler .
Cozy up with our Winter Warmer Special!
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Promo is valid from the 1st of June - 31st July 2024. Accommodation dates are for the months of June and July only.
NEWS CLIP
HOMA SET FOR NEDBANK GOLF CHALLENGE RETURN
Max Homa will return to defend his Nedbank Golf Challenge title when ‘Africa’s Major’ moves back to its traditional December slot at Gary Player CC.
Max Homa finished four shots clear of Nicolai Højgaard at last year’s Nedbank Golf Challenge.
The World Number 15 secured an impressive four-shot victory on his Nedbank Golf Challenge debut last November, and he will aim to repeat that “dream week” when he tees it up once again in Sun City from December 5-8, 2024, as the tournament forms part of the 2025 Race to Dubai.
Homa claimed his first DP World Tour win at Sun City as he rounded off a standout year in 2023, in which he collected his sixth PGA
TOUR title and finished as Team USA’s top points scorer on his Ryder Cup debut.
“I said last year that I remembered watching the Nedbank Golf Challenge on TV when I was growing up, so finishing with the trophy in my hands was the perfect end to a dream week,” said Homa.
“It was awesome to have the chance to travel to South Africa, to experience a new place and to meet so many amazing people, and I am very excited to come back to Sun City to defend my title.
“Gary Player is a golfing legend, who has given so much to the game, so winning a tournament that he is associated with made it even more special.”
Umkomaas golf course was first constructed, as a 9-hole layout, in 1913 but was expanded to 18 holes in 1926. In 1932 reknown course designer Robert "Bob" Grimsdell re-designed the course, capitalising on the natural contours of the land and taking advantage of the glorious sea views - in fact, most holes offer great views of the warm Indian ocean. The course layout has remained largely unchanged and as a result, one of Umkomaas' unique features are the raised greens, thanks to over 100 years of top-dressings and treatments.
Although not overly long, the course offers a great challenge for low handicappers, especially when the coastal winds blow. It is however forgiving for even an occasional golfer making it the perfect option for families and groups. Well placed bunkers and undulating fairways mean that those seeking to card a low round need to think their way around the course whilst those looking to simply have fun will enjoy themselves too.
Umkomaas is a great choice for those wanting to get the whole family out into the fresh air. We offer exceptional family membership packages and the opportunity to learn to play via our KidzGolf programme
Living up to our reputation as the Friendliest Club, Umkomaas offers a warm welcome to visitors both on and off the course. Competitions are held weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays and visitors are always welcome.
We look forward to welcoming you soon!
NEWS CLIP
BLAAUW WINS FIRST TITLE IN EIGHT YEARS AT SUNBET CHALLENGE
Jacques Blaauw made par at the first playoff hole to win the SunBet Challenge hosted by Sun City at the Gary Player Country Club early June, with the 38-year-old breaking an eight-year win drought and doing it at one of his favourite courses.
It all led to an emotional celebration by Blaauw as he admitted to being “like a madman, going crazy on the phone” with his wife and father shortly after the trophy presentation.
“It’s been a while since my last win –2016 – but I’ve been playing very well the last two months and I was thinking the win was
coming,” Blaauw said, following up his four rounds in the sixties to finish third in the KitKat Cash & Carry Pro-Am a fortnight before with rounds of 71-71-69 for five-under-par at Gary Player Country Club.
“This game keeps you humble, there are more ups and downs. It’s funny, but what I consider to be my first professional win came at the Gary Player Country Club, one of the best courses in the country, when I won the Klipdrift Touring Pro-Am back in 2010/11. I’ve waited so long now for this win, so I was like a madman, going crazy on the phone when I spoke to my wife and dad,” Blaauw said.
Halfway House and restaurant run by Resh's
By: Sue de Zwart
Soundwintermaintenance makesforaperfect
Irrigation – along with your pumps (& the necessary power of course) will ultimately determine your playing surface quality.
(click to play video)
I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to service every sprinkler head every year. It is a simple hole by hole task which should be done in house by the irrigation technician & the assistant.
Too much water or poor drainage leads to disease, moss & algae.
Too little water immediately destroys your roots – when you see your plant wilting you know your roots are taking strain.
Pumps – it is worth ensuring your pump station has uninterrupted power to water efficiently & ensure your superintendent can water the appropriate amount at the appropriate time.
Filtration - is a series of leaf traps, in line filters –there are many solutions on the market as a result of our thriving agricultural.
Central control – it amazes me to see how many golf courses have satellite boxes, but do not operate off a central control system – it is simply a pc, relevant software & some basic training.
Team training – when I started at Leopard Creek I
Turf Tips
maintenance&preparation perfectseasonahead.
would spend 30 minutes every afternoon training Siphila & Louis (always train 2 people) how to operate and programme the Rain Bird software. It certainly is worth spending time with your irrigation team as they ultimately cap your quality.
Equipment: Plan to succeed
Winter – use this time to prepare for the season ahead e.g. – reel grinding, bedknife facing
A sound workshop manager doing sound servicing & preventative maintenance is critical.
Detail does it:
CSU – flags, cups, stakes – check your inventory & do the necessary painting & powder coating
Train your team to use the cup setter to ensure your cup depth is consistent & neat.
Golf directors PLEASE mark a SMALL dot (with paint can lid off) & superintendents PLEASE ensure your team knit the paint mark BEFORE cutting the cup – such a small issue can be a visual game changer on a green.
Bunkers – Consistency is key
If you have 52 bunkers - check 4 bunkers levels per week you can get through your bunkers every 3 months
Create a simple sand depth stake & maintain your bunker depth between 100 & 150 mm We will be doing a bunker maintenance webinar – feel free to register with events@talkingturf.co.za –more details to follow
– this is the perfect time to do refreshers on mowing with each section
20 minutes with your greens, tees, fairway, semi rough mowers in their sections - simple mowing tips – I love doing this with the workshop manager
Procrastination is a killer – let your course be the winner by using your slow months to service your irrigation, pumps, filters, equipment, adjust bunker levels, train staff -
Phone: +27 14 495 0026
Email: hoa@korocreek.com
Address: 147 Kerk St, Modimolle, 0510
NEWS CLIP
VORSTER CLAIMS FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON
Parys Golf and Country Club member, Leon Vorster, claimed the first tournament of the season when he raced to a five-stroke victory in the Betway Big Easy Tour’s season-opener at Benoni Country Club late June.
Vorster was in a three-way share of the lead heading into the final round in the East Rand. He produced an eye-catching round of seven-under-par 65 to win on a total of 13-under-par 203.
“It’s super tough to win here,” said Vorster in the aftermath of his victory. “You have to play three very good rounds
of golf to be able to win on the Big Easy. The scoring here is insanely low. I played well from day one; from hole one. I played some exceptional golf. I did make mistakes but that’s golf and you can’t always play perfect golf. But, mentally and physically, the game was high up there this week.”
Vorster’s triumph in Benoni was technically his second Betway Big Easy Tour title back-to-back. He won the final tournament of the previous season and has now claimed the very first of the current campaign.
continued on page 84...
Custom Tours Available
NEWS CLIP
continued from page 82..
“It feels good to be able to win again; it’s been a while for my golf to get better again,” Vorster added. “I’m very privileged to have won the last tournament of last season and start the new season with another win. This is a great opportunity to play and play against great players.
“I enjoy playing here because it motivates me to play better golf; the quality of the players here is on another level. It was tough this week and especially this morning. The conditions were really tough. We got
delayed for over an hour because of the fog this morning and it was just a tough day. I’m very happy to shoot a 65 in such difficult conditions. It was great.”
Slade Pickering played himself into a share of second by producing a fine 67 to get to eight-under and tie second with Brandon Gildenhuys. Member of the Papwa Sewgolum Class, Yurav Premlal, shared fourth with Tyron Davidowitz of Hermanus Golf Club. They finished the tournament seven-under-par.
Rookie Jaden Deltel finished solo sixth with an impressive tournament total of four-under-par.
World Environment Day (WED) is celebrated on 5 June each year and its intention is to stimulate awareness of the environment and enhance political attention and public action. This year WED focused on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience and the worrying intensification of the triple planetary crisis:
• the crisis of climate change,
• the crisis of nature and biodiversity loss, and
• the crisis of pollution and waste.
In addition to marking WED, it is also appropriate to celebrate with ELEMENTS PRIVATE GOLF RESERVE on its achievement of winning the John Collier TOP CLUB Award for environmental compliance, social responsibility and good governance for South African golf courses and Special Mention Awards to Umhlali Country Club and Olivewood Private Estate.
Winning a TOP CLUB AWARD is achieved through the support of committed and passionate people, who wholly embracing the three pillars of sustainable golf being environmental compliance, social responsibility and good governance (ESG).
What ELEMENTS PRIVATE GOLF RESERVE has done so well, in their survey questionnaire, is that it has illustrated, not only its stewardship of the land linked to areas such as land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, but their attention to the three pillars of sustainable golf, namely environmental compliance, social responsibility and good governance (ESG), the UN Sustainable Development Goals dealing with Life on Land and Climate Action and embracing social responsibility and the implementation of good governance.
As the Chairman of Elements, Mr Waldo du Toit said in receiving the TOP CLUB AWARD, the success is due to the commitment of the management team and all support staff.
Therefore, special congratulations must go to ELEMENTS PRIVATE GOLF RESERVE Chairman Mr Waldo Du Toit, the Board of Trustees, the various portfolio holders and subcommittee members, including Mike Engelbrecht, Johan Smith and Nico Hager and residents, the general manager Gerhard Lombard, club manager, Charles Smith, Tshepiso Mabena and the Matkovich Team.
TURNING BACK THE CLOCK WHO is the Golfer from the past?
Our mystery golfer was born on the 29th of July 1916 in Bexhill-on-sea, England and passed away on the 26th of February 2005 in Chichester, England. During World War II he served in the RAF as a Physical Training instructor.
• During his career he won 16 regular tournaments in Europe, including three Spanish Opens, with his last being the 1968 Portuguese Open at the age of 52.
• His greatest achievement was his victory in the 1951 Open Championship at Royal Portrush.
• He played in five Ryder Cup matches, including the historic 1957 contest at Lindrick where the Great Britain team won for the first time since 1933.
• In 2001, on the 50th anniversary of his Open triumph, he was honoured with an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for services to golf.
Answer on page 102
Photo by Shaun Roy/Sunshine Tour
10 CAN YOU FIND ALL ?
SPOT THE DIFFERENCES
Jacques Blaauw
Exputt – an interactive putting simulator
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Exputt RG is an interactive putting simulator that uses a high-speed camera to track your putter path, ball speed, and direction which connects to a TV or mobile device to create a virtual practice green in your studio, office or the comfort of your home.
Exputt analyses all aspects of your putting performance including:
·Ball Speed & Distance
·Impact Angle
·Launch Direction
·Putter Path
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. Cateringforsmallergroupsisour speciality.Contact us for the various options for on-site accommodation.
Between 07:00 & 08:00 and 12:00 & 13:00. Greenfee, Golf Cart & Prego Roll at Halfway. R 395,00 per player.
Affiliated: R 430
Non-Affiliated: R 520
Member Guest: R 350 Thursday Special: R 395
NEWS CLIP
DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH: FORMER GOLF LEGENDS HELP SA YOUTH TAKE A SWING AT SUCCESS
Pádraig Harrington said he felt a “deep sense of satisfaction and validation” at being inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
The Irishman, a three-time Major Champion, joined 19-time LPGA winner Sandra Palmer at the ceremony, which took place at Pinehurst Resort & CC in North Carolina in June.
LPGA legend Beverly Hanson, former Open champion and golf course
architect Tom Weiskopf and former U.S. Open champion Johnny Farrell were in-
ducted posthumously. Also being inducted were the remaining seven founders of the LPGA – Alice Bauer, Bettye Danoff, Helen Dettweiler, Helen Hicks, Opal Hill, Sally Sessions and Shirley Spork. The other six founders previous were inducted on their own.
“Emotionally it brings me a deep sense of satisfaction and validation to be inducted into the hall of fame,” Harrington said in his acceptance speech.
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.
NEWS CLIP
continued from page 97..
Harrington, 52, won back-to-back Open Championships as well as adding the US PGA Championship during a brilliant 13-month spell in 2007 and 2008.
He has featured on four winning Ryder Cup teams in six playing appearances and captained the European team at Whistling Straits in 2021.
“As a player you get inducted into the hall of fame based on your golf results,” added Harrington who was introduced to the stage by his son Paddy.
“So yes, I won three majors, numerous events around the world, I played six Ryder Cups, and that’s what gets you in the hall of fame. But there is a story behind it. So, what’s my story?
“Firstly, I’m not sure whether I loved the game, or the game loved me because it was truly great to me.
“I loved the fact it was never meant to be a fair game. It was always meant to be a test of skill and mental fortitude. I loved the rules; I loved the etiquette; I loved the competition.
“Probably ultimately, I loved the meritocracy of it, that you’re out there on your own, no one else decides your fate, and it’s up to you to get it done.”
Harrington was crowned European Number One in 2005, while he was voted Golfer of the Year in 2007 and 2008 and was recognised with the same honour on
continued on page 99...
NEWS CLIP
continued from page 98... the PGA TOUR in 2008.
He boasts 15 DP World Tour wins among his 39 worldwide titles and landed his first senior Major success at the U.S. Senior Open in 2022.
Harrington is the third Irishman to join the World Golf Hall of Fame, after amateur Joe Carr and Christy O’Connor Snr.
His countryman and fellow Major champion Shane Lowry was among those in attendance at the ceremony.
SA GOLF TRADER DIRECTORY
GAUTENG
Golf Clubs
Akasia GC (012) 542-1309
Avion Park GC (011) 970-7000
Benoni CC (011) 849-5211
Bronkhorstspruit GC (013) 932-3940
Bryanston CC (011) 706-1361
CMR GC (011) 472-8060
Copper Leaf GE (012) 668-8900
Dainfern GC (011) 875-0400
Eagle Canyon GC (011) 801-6611
Ebotse GC (087)2853555/7
ERPM GC (011) 826-2466
Eye of Africa (071) 401 3127
Germiston GC (011) 827-7818
Glendower GC (011) 453-1013
Glenvista GC (011) 432-3150
Hillside GC (012) 546-1764
Irene CC (012) 667-1081
Jackal Creek GE (011) 251-6721
Johannesburg CC (011) 202-1620
Kempton Park CC (011) 970-1075
Killarney GC (011) 442-3880
Krugersdorp GC (011) 660-4365
Kyalami GC (010) 594-0034
Leeuwkop GC (011) 466-2888
Maccauvlei GC (016) 422-1263
Meyerton GC (016) 362-0809
Modderfontein GC (011) 608-2033
Observatory GC (011) 648-9574
Parkview GC (011) 646-5400
Pebble Rock GC (012) 808-0883
Pollak Park GC (011) 362-6757
Pretoria CC (012) 460-3372
Pretoria GC (012) 386-6836
Randpark GC (011) 215-8600
Randfontein GC (011) 693-5414
Reading GC (011) 907-8906
Riviera on Vaal CC (016) 430-1380
Royal Jhb & (011) 640-3021
Kensington GC
Royal Oak CC (011) 740-0016
Services GC (012) 651-4411
Silver Lakes CC (012) 809-2110
Southdowns CC (011) 943-4448
Springs CC (011) 362-5031
State Mines CC (011) 740-9962
Wanderers GC (011) 447-3311
Waterkloof GC (012) 460-2542
Wingate CC (012) 997-1298
Woodhill CC (012) 998-0011
Zwartkops CC (012) 654-2111
Driving Ranges
Colbyn D/R (012) 342-3882
Grasslands D/R (082) 777-8912
Greenhills D/R (011) 828-9555
Jim and Jerrys’ D/R (011) 662-1603
Kimiad D/R & (012) 997-2240
Mashie Course
Observatory D/R (011) 487-3898
Panorama D/R (012) 661-0533
Sandy Bunker D/R (073) 109-4239
Six Fountains D/R (012) 809-0430
Verwey D/R (082) 371 7323
Wits D/R (011) 717-9416
Zwartkops D/R (012) 654-4830
Golf Shops
Second Chance (011) 440-0558
The Golfers Club (011) 453-6352
Edenvale
The Golfers Club (011) 465-9985
Fourways
The Golfers Club (011) 475-7519
West Rand
The Pro Shop (011) 602-8888
Woodmead
FREESTATE
Golf Clubs
Bethlehem GC (058) 303-0940
Bloemfontein GC (051) 447-0906
Clarens GE (058) 256-1270
Clocolan GC (051) 943-1933
Ficksburg GC (051) 933-3711
Heron Banks Golf Estate (078) 052-4083
Kimberly GC (053) 841-0179
Kroonstad GC (056) 212-5169
Ladybrand GC (051) 924-3146
Oppenheimer Park (057) 353-2131
Parys GE (056) 818-1567
Schoeman Park GC (051) 408-3811
Tempe GC (051) 402-1489
Vaal de Grace (056) 811-2013
Golf Shops
The Pro Shop
Bloemfontein (051) 430-7313
WESTERN CAPE
Golf Clubs
Arabella GC (028) 284-0000
Atlantic Beach GC (021) 553-2223
Bellville GC (021) 913-3100
Bredasdorp GC (028) 424-1855
Clovelly CC (021) 784-2111
Devonvale GE (021) 865-2080
De Zalze GC (021) 880-7300
Erinvale GC (021) 847-1144
King David Mowbray GC (021) 685-3018
Kleinmond GC (028) 271-3525
Langebaan GC (022) 772-2112
Paarl GC (021) 863-1140
Parow GC (021) 930-2160
Pearl Valley GC (021) 867-8000
Rondebosch GC (021) 689-4176
Royal Cape GC (021) 761-6551
Shelley point CC (022) 742-1394
Simonstown CC (021) 786-1233
Somerset West GC (021) 852-2925
Steenberg GC (021) 715-0227
Stellenbosch GC (021) 880-0103
Strand GC (021) 853-6268
Westlake GC (021) 788-2020
Driving Ranges
Riverclub (021) 447-3757
Golf Shops
The Golfers Club
Century City (021) 555-3540
THE GARDEN ROUTE
Golf Clubs
Fancourt - Montagu (044) 804-0183 / Outeniqua
Fancourt - The Links (044) 804-0785
Fynbos GCE (042) 285-0321
George GC (044) 873-6116
Goose Valley GE (044) 533-5082
Kingswood GE (0861) 727-170
Knysna GC (044) 384-1150
SA GOLF TRADER DIRECTORY
Mossel Bay GC (044) 691-2379
Oubaai GE (044) 851-1234
Pezula GC (044) 302-5300
Pinnacle Point GR (044) 606-5300
Plettenburg Bay GC (044) 533-2132
Simola GE (044) 302-9677
Golf Shops
The Pro Shop (044) 871-0620
Bells Academy
EASTERN CAPE
Golf Clubs
Bushman Sands GC (042) 231-8000
East London GC (043) 735-1356
Fish River Sun GC (040) 676-1101
Gonubie GC (043) 740-5645
Hankey GC (042) 284-0335
Humewood Links GC (041) 583-2137
Jeffreys Bay GC (042) 293-2532
Katberg GC (040) 864-1010
Port Elizabeth GC (041) 374-3140
Royal Port Alfred GC (046) 624-4796
Shark River GC (041) 581-6188
St Francis Bay GC (042) 294-0467
St Francis Links (042) 200-4500
Uitenhage GC (041) 966-1868
Walmer Park GC (074) 259-1788
Walmer CC (041) 581-1877
West Bank GC (043) 731-1523
Zwartenbosch GC (042) 291-0569
Driving Ranges
Harbour View D/R (084) 622-7259
Londt Park D/R (041) 360-8707
Walmer Woods D/R (082) 372-8252
Golf Shops
The Pro Shop - PE (041) 363-0470
Golf Clubs
Amorello Game Lodge (035) 562-3182
Beachwood CC (031) 564-4257
Bluff National GC (031) 467-7448
Boschoek GC (033) 234-4232
Cathedral Peak GC (036) 488-1888
Cotswold Downs GC (031) 714-4432
Durban CC (031) 313-1777
Glengarry GC (033) 701-1355
Greytown CC (033) 417-2441
Kloof CC (031) 764-0555
Ladysmith CC (036) 637-3521
Margate CC (039) 317-2340
Maritzburg GC (033) 396-5755
Mt. Edgecombe CC (031) 539-5330
Port Shepstone GC (039) 695-0141
Prince’s Grant GC (032) 482-0041
Royal Durban GC (031) 309-2581
Sakabula GC (033) 330-6751
San Lameer GC (039) 313-5141
Scottburgh GC (039) 976-0041
Selborne Park GE 087 135 05589
Southbroom GC (039) 316-6051
Simbithi GC (032) 946 8360
St Cathryns GC (033) 444-1945
Umdoni Park GC (039) 975-1320
Umhlali CC (032) 947-1181
Umkomaas GC (039) 973-1330
Victoria CC (033) 347-1394
Wild Coast CC (039) 305-2799
Windsor park GC (031) 303-1728
Zimbali CC (032) 538-1041
Driving Ranges
Lynton Hall (039) 975-1502
Golf Academy
Mt Edgecombe D/R (031) 502-3480
University Dbn D/R (031) 261-8062
Westville D/R (031) 265-0148
Golf Shops
The Golfers Club (031) 566-5292
Umhlanga
The Pro Shop (031) 263 0034
Durban
Golf Clubs
Elements (010) 591 2951
Private Golf Reserve
Euphoria GC (014) 743-5000
Hans Merensky GC (015) 781-3931
Kameeldoring CC (015) 491-5563
Koro Creek GC (014) 495-0026
Legend GE (012) 443-6700
Naboomspruit GC (014) 743-1963
Polokwane GC (015) 295-4118
Swartklip GC (014) 786-0186
Univ. of Limpopo GC (015) 268-2183
Zebula CC (014) 734 7700
Golf Clubs
Klerksdorp GC (018) 462-6696
Leopard Park GC (018) 386-3086
Magaliespark GC (012) 207-9102
Mooinooi GC (014) 574-4111
Orkney GC (018) 473-2899
Pecanwood CC (012) 244-8000
Potchefstroom GC (018) 293-0210
Rustenburg GC (014) 597-1814
Sandy Lane GC (012) 244-3000
Seasons Eco (082) 804-2780
Golf Estate
Driving Ranges
Jim & Jerrys (012) 205-1485
Golf Clubs
Bankenveld GC (072) 0765890
Barberton CC (013) 712-2923
Belfast GC (013) 253-0981
Bethal GC (017) 647-3265
Delmas GC (013) 665-5077
Drakenzicht (083) 708-1994
Mountain Links
Graceland GC (017) 620-1188
Kinross GC (017) 687-0122
Komatipoort GC (082) 888-0188
Kriel GC (017) 617-1145
Kruger Park Lodge (013) 737-5000
Leopard Creek GC (013) 791-2406
Lydenburg GC (013) 235-3391
Nelspruit GC (013) 744-0958
Middelburg CC (013) 282-6176
Morgenzon GC (017) 793-3074
Sabie Country Club (013) 764-2282
Sabi River Sun GC (013) 737-7311
Standerton GC (017) 719-1123
Tweefontein GC (013) 686-9660
Walker Park GC (074) 259-1788
Whiteriver GC (013) 751-3781
Witbank CC (013) 656-3109
Driving Ranges
Broham D/R (013) 755-6156
Riverside Golf Park (013) 757-0960
Golf Shops
The Pro Shop (013) 757-1264
Nelspruit
SWAZILAND
Royal Swazi Spa CC (+268) 2416 5000
GOLFING ASSOCIATIONS
CONTACT: Neville on 082 705 8764 or Louis on 083 293 0220 or the office on 086 101 9005 or Email: info@sagolftrader.co.za
BEST Video Moment
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Bryson DeChambeau won the U.S. Open thanks to this stunning bunker shot on the 18th hole from 55 yards
