SA Golf Trader Magazine March April 2023

SA Golf Trader published bi-monthly by SA Golf Trader cc. Reg. No. 2004/063586/23

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To the Editor

And so, it continues, more defections to LIV Golf, more money being spent by the PGA Tour, more and more reasons for balanced thought.

How long will the defectors continue to advocate they are focused on their independence to choose where and when they play, although the question has to be where is the evidence of independence in an employer/employee contract mandating attendance at 14 events?

How long will the LIV program last for some of the players — not because the money will run out, but because they can be replaced seemingly due to Greg Norman finding a better player with a bigger star appeal?

How long can the PGA Tour promote the hypocritical viewpoint that Saudi money is so tainted by their murderous activities? As if the American government has never done anything vaguely close to such deceit.

Really??? How much longer will this silly feud continue before there is a resolution?

Regards

David Gray

Dear David

Thank you for writing in.

I sincerely hope that sense will prevail soon and that ultimately golf can come out of this in a stronger position. It is easy to get sucked into the hullaballoo of it all and not see the wood for the trees.

From our position we try to give equal attention to both sides of the debate, however when one looks at the comments on our Facebook page you realise that the poet John Lydgate was right when he said “You can please some of the people all of the time, you can please all of the people some of the time, but you can’t please all of the people all of the time”.

Regards

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Part 4 - Wedges… know which one is the best for your game!

Improve your golf game

Get to know your wedges to save more pars!

Are you struggling to make up & downs due to catching your chip shots thin or chunking it? Get to know your wedges to save more pars!

So what is bounce and the purpose of it?

Bounce on a wedge is the angle created between the leading edge and the lowest point of ‘the sole’ - the area of the club that hits through the ground as it makes contact with the ball. Bounce provides forgiveness on wedges to strike the ball well even when mistakes occur.

The type of effect on which to play with. the ground is or the greenside (not much sand) with less bounce play courses you can use but of course, level.

The degree of loft on a wedge affects the trajectory on how the ball flies when you hit the ball, eg. The higher loft (60 deg) the higher the ball will go with a softer landing.

The reason why wedges on “harder” want the club the ball, that thin/ shanked chip/ pitch in has less bounce club bouncing ball before

game through better equipment choice

pars!

golf course you play regulary has an which wedges (loft and bounce) is best with. If you play on a hard course where is not really soft and the lies are tight, greenside bunkers are more hard than soft sand) you would want to use a wedge bounce and of course, visa versa, if you courses that are softer around the greens, wedges with higher bounce and loft, course, this depends on each player’s skill

When you’ve got a nice soft lie where the ball might be sitting a bit up, a higher bounce wedge will more easily get underneath the ball making a good strike without risks of the club digging in behind the ball. So have a good think about the course you play most often before you just go out and buy new wedges.

why we want to use less bounce

“harder” courses is because we don’t club to bounce before impact behind that will result in the outcome to be shanked or a complete disaster by hitting a in the teeth. Therefore if your wedge bounce it will reduce the chances of the bouncing up from the ground behind the you’ve even got to the ball.

Playing with the correct wedges and understanding the bounce and loft of your wedges for particular lies and shots will definitly be a game changer and lower your scoring around the greens.

Balderstone Sports Institute’s PGA coaching team can help you beat the bad shots!

Images courtesy of Dunlop Srixon SA

STATE MINES COUNTRY CLUB

GOLFRSA WELCOMES ANNE VERMAAK AS OPERATIONS MANAGER

GolfRSA is delighted to announce the appointment of Anne Vermaak as Operations Manager from March 2023.

“We are excited to welcome Anne to the GolfRSA team,” CEO Grant Hepburn said. “Anne brings a wealth of experience to the role having been the recent CEO of Gymnastics South Africa and she is a well-known and highly respected sports administrator.

“Anne is highly regarded amongst South African sports federations and has extensive networks in SASCOC, as well as the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and across the sporting industry.

“She has a vast skill set including collaborative team and project management, systems implementation,

risk management resolution, and business processes, to name a few. We are delighted that such a respected and high-profile sports industry leader is joining us.

“We look forward to having Anne join the GolfRSA team. We are confident that she will be valuable asset to our organisation.“

Vermaak is looking forward to the next chapter in her career in the sports industry.

“I am very excited and honoured to be joining the GolfRSA team,” she said. “One lesson that covid taught us was how much collaboration across sporting codes can positively impact our industry. I look forward to the new challenges that lie ahead and to assist the growth and development of Golf and sport in South Africa.”

KNOW YOUR RULES

Identify Your Ball

A player’s ball at rest may be identified in any one of these ways:

By the player or anyone else seeing a ball come to rest in circumstances where it is known to be the player’s ball. By seeing the player’s identifying mark on the ball (see Rule 6.3a).

By finding a ball with the same brand, model, number and condition as the player’s ball in an area where the player’s ball is expected to be (but this does not apply if an identical ball is in the same area and there is no way to know which one is the player’s ball).

If a player’s provisional ball cannot be distinguished from his or her original ball, see Rule 18.3c(2).

GENERAL MANAGER

Wayne Venter - General Manager - Germiston Golf Club

1. How long have you been in the golf industry and what made you choose this career?

I have been involved within the sports industry for nearly 30 years, I was given the opportunity to work in the golf industry which has turned out to be amazing.

2. Has it always been golf for you?

My first love for sport was tennis, I played on the SA circuit from the age of 13. My love of golf started when I walked with my dad as a youngster when he played.

3. Did you ever play or did you ever want to play on tour?

I have never played on the tour. I am more of a social player.

4. Who has been your biggest mentor?

My biggest mentor has to be my dad. He

always taught me never to give up and always go for your dreams. My father loved golf. There are many golf club GM’s out there that are doing incredible work within the industry and it’s always nice knowing that you can phone them to brainstorm.

5. Describe a typical workday for you at Germiston GC?

There’s no typical day at Germiston GC every day is a new challenge. The day usually starts with a quick chat with the Pro-shop followed by a meeting with our greenkeeper, Ian Macintosh, to discuss the course. This is followed by a meeting or a phone call with our club captain, Rodney Hendry, to discuss club issues. I then do a walk around the club, checking that everything is in order which is never the case. I then spend the rest of the day in and out the office answering emails organizing functions and golf days with the help of my accountant, Rina Hartzenberg, but I always find time to chat with the members and the

visitors at the club.

6. What are your biggest challenges currently at Germiston GC?

Finding young adults to become full members of the club is a challenge. I’ve noticed with the league over the last 3 years that there are no new faces. The golfers these days are happy with just a handicap card. Being a municipal owned golf course, we get no support from the council. The day-today costs to run our Golf Club falls directly on the members.

7. Has golf grown in your opinion over the last 3 years?

Personally, I feel golf in South Africa has grown. I do however think the COVID epidemic has had a lot to do with it. People were isolated for so long that when they gained the freedom to go out and about again, they chose sports to keep them outdoors and let’s face it, there is no better sport than golf to keep you outdoors.

8. With consumers already being careful on how they spend their money these days, what is your plan to attract people to the club?

We are running weekday specials and weekend group booking specials to celebrate the clubs 126th year. We also offering specials on our function facilities.

9. The members of a golf club always come first. Do you agree with the phrase “The member is always right”?

Yes, I always go the extra mile to make our members happy and I’ve trained my staff to do the same. However, saying this, there are times when members can be unreasonable and I have to stand my ground. In the best interest of the club!

10. Does your position require you to be available on weekends, evenings, and holidays, and if so, does this place demands on your personal life?

YES, I am always on call. Being GM of the golf course requires a lot of sacrifice. Sometimes your hours are not always your own, you can go for a week or two working normal hours. Then you can have weeks where you have a golf day every week, sometimes two, plus functions on weekends where you get home at 1 o’clock in the morning. Thankfully I have an understanding wife.

11. What are your short & long term goals??

Short term goal getting more golfers to play at Germiston. Germiston GC used to be in the top 100 golf courses, my long-term goal is to get back there.

12. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

In my free time I enjoy spending time with my wife, family and friends. I also enjoy singing at pubs and restaurants when I get the chance. However, I really enjoy just relaxing at home with my wife.

13. Do you still get time to play?

I don’t get to play as often as I would like too. I usually get to play twice a month which I truly enjoy.

Dainfern opened in 1991 on the site of the old Fourways golf course, Gary Player and Phil Jacobs took the Fourways layout and built the Dainfern golf course as we know it today.

The golfing challenge on the Par 72 course was developed around the meandering Jukskei River with its undulating terrain and is a truly spectacular layout. The river is in play on six holes with the rolling terrain providing a challenge to both amateurs and professionals and affords breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape.

Dams, water features, natural rocky outcrops, weeping willows as well as abundant birdlife provide a tranquil country ambiance.

All golfers are welcome to the Estate, come and play a round of golf with us.

SUNSHINE LADIES TOUR REVEALS NEW BRAND IDENTITY FOR 10TH SEASON

When the 10th Sunshine Ladies Tour season launched on February 1st, flags and branding at the season-opening SuperSport Ladies Challenge presented by Sun International at Sun City featured a refreshed Sunshine Ladies Tour logo and a strong hashtag to celebrate a decade of driving women’s professional golf in Africa.

“We are very pleased with the new look we have come up with to celebrate a decade of providing professional golfers from across the globe with a strong platform to launch their careers and go all the way,” said Thomas Abt, Sunshine

Tour Commissioner.

The signature woman golfer in the centre has been retained in a lighter shade of purple, while the colour coral has been incorporated into the sun’s rays to signify the energy, freshness and the deep sense of optimism that is synonymous with Africa’s premier professional women’s golf tour.

“The Sunshine Ladies Tour has grown into an attractive product. The success of the Tour has been very encouraging, with

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AVAILABLE WEEKDAYS (EXCLUDING WEDNESDAYS)

R550 - 2 BALL WITH CART

R275 PP WITH CART

R175 PP WITHOUT CART

Cricket

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18-Hole Golf Course

Squash

Get your body t fast and push your agility and balance to a whole new limit in our two well-maintained squash courts which has access to central club facilities.

Padel

Tennis

Bring your local tennis club, some friends or family for some court camaraderie and serve away on our 6 tennis courts (4 which are oodlit).

Can’t choose between tennis or squash? Give this energizing and addictive racket sport a go, it’s suitable for all ages and the perfect social game.

Cor

Br onkhor stspr uit Golf Cour se

MO-FRI GREENFEE- 18 HOLES ONLY, TEE OFF BEFORE 12H00.

1 BALL 1 CART: R300,00

2 BALL 1 CART: R400,00

3 BALL 2 CARTS: R700,00

4 BALL 2 CARTS: R800,00

GREENFEE:

MO-FRI: R100/PERSON (18 HOLES)

MO-FRI: R50/PERSON (9 HOLES)

SAT/SUN & PH: R160/PERSON (18 HOLES)

SAT/SUN & PH: R80/PERSON (9HOLES)

APPLICABLE TO ALL PLAYERS AFF & NON AFF

WED/THU COMPETITION FEE: R50/PERSON, AFF ONLY.

GOLFCARTS:MO-FRI: R200/18 HOLES (BEFORE 12HOO) ,R130/9 HOLES(BEFORE 14H30)

SAT/SUN&PH- R350/18 HOLES (BEFORE 12H00), R200/9 HOLES (BEFORE 14H30)

Tel:

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international participation increasing year-on-year, and the prize money has more than quadrupled from what was on offer in the first season.

“The Sunshine Ladies Tour has created incredible opportunities for our members through the partnership we have with all our sponsors, and with the Ladies European Tour, which co-sanctions our two flagship tournaments.”

In keeping with the vision of providing those opportunities, the Sunshine Ladies Tour has also

adopted a new hashtag – #WeGotGame –to recognise the talents of its members. It is a powerful statement of intention, as well as a celebration of skills and abilities.

“The new branding reinforces the important role the Sunshine Ladies Tour holds in the African sporting landscape as a pathway to the bigger global golfing platforms,” Abt said.

SA GOLF CELEBRATES DENIS HUTCHINSON

South African golf came together to recognise one of its greats at Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club in January as professionals and amateurs celebrated the incredible contribution Denis Hutchinson has made to the game.

The annual Denis Hutchinson Challenge once again brought together professional golfers from the Sunshine Tour, Sunshine Ladies Tour and PGA of South Africa and amateurs from GolfRSA and the South African Golf Development Board to compete as teams in a celebration of Hutchinson’s career as a golfer and a broadcaster.

The team of Ivanna Samu, Nikhil Rama, Kael Strydom and Gregory Jacobs took top honours with 89 points on the West Course.

Hutchinson had multiple victories on the

Sunshine Tour and DP World Tour in his playing career, including famously being the last amateur to have won the Investec South African Open Championship in 1959. Amongst his many accolades, Hutchinson has been recognised with Lifetime Membership of the Sunshine Tour and as Honorary Life President of the PGA of South Africa.

“Hutchy has been such a wonderful ambassador for South African golf for decades now, both as a player who competed with some of the greats of the game, and then as a commentator who became known as ‘The Voice of Golf’. It’s an honour for all of us in the family of South African golf to come together on a day such as this and take the time to recognise the immense contribution he has made to the game we all love,” said Thomas Abt, Commissioner of the Sunshine Tour.

THINK YOU CAN BEAT THE PRO? WELL, PROVE IT!

If you think you’re better than the pros, now is the time to prove it.

The Sunshine Tour is offering golf fans a unique opportunity to prove you’re as good as you think you are and take on the professionals in a par-three shootout at any one of 10 official Sunshine Tour events on the schedule for the chance to win a trip to the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open and then the ultimate prize of an all-expenses paid trip to one of golf’s four Majors in 2024.

That’s a once-in-a-lifetime shot at golf glory against an elite professional in a Sunshine Tour event.

Any golf fan over the age of 18 can enter by purchasing a ticket on the Sunshine Tour website for one of the 10 qualifying tournaments.

And then you need to Beat the Pro in

a closest to the pin challenge on a par three. In tournament conditions. Under tournament pressure.

There will be 10 aspiring stars competing in each event, which will take place during the fourth round of each Sunshine Tour tournament. Did we mention the in-tournament pressure?

If none of the 10 amateurs manages to beat the professional, then the closest to the pin amongst the 10 amateurs will win that event and an all-expenses paid VIP trip for two to the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open, where you will again compete against the other nine champions for the ultimate prize of a trip to attend a Major in 2024.

So golf fans, glove up, pitch up, and show us what you’ve got against the best on the Sunshine Tour.

THE NEW ZWARTKOP ‘GOLF, LIFESTYLE, PRACTICE & ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE’

Dale Hayes, doyen of South African golf and owner of Zwartkop Country Club has announced some big changes to the facility.

“Along with my wife Alison, and my son Adam, we have decided to completely change the business operation of Zwartkop Country Club, the golf course we have owned since 2001.

“As a result of the repeated and damaging flooding, which has gotten worse over the last four years, we have decided to make Zwartkop a 9-hole hole course.

That will remove the worst affected holes from play, as they are the ones that suffer 95% of the damage.

“Two holes will make way for a big extension to our Driving Range which will incorporate a nice big chipping and putting practice green.

On half of the range we are going to install a TopTracer Range, which is something that is taking America by storm.

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NEWS CLIP

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It marries technology with golf and is hugely exciting for golfers and non-golfers alike.

“We will upgrade our existing nine holes by enlarging three greens (which will accommodate two pins), and we will build new tees on five holes to add variety to the two 9-hole loops.

“We are also going to be installing Padel Tennis courts.

If you don’t already know, Padel is a game that is enormously popular in South Africa.

In addition we are also building a large new, modern kids play area and adding a

delicatessen / eatery into our old shop, with an new expanded outdoor seating area overlooking the new facilities.

“Obviously, this is something completely new and unique.

Turning Zwartkop into a ‘Golf, Lifestyle, Practise and Entertainment Centre’ will not only focus on our golfers’ needs, but also non-golfers and just as importantly, their families.

“My brother Brian and I were both born at Zwartkop and my dad was the Club Professional here for 56 years, so I’m sure you can imagine how difficult it has been to make

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We can accommodate bachelors p to gro ps of . We ha e man ac i es to choose from; s ch as paintball, cla pigeon shoo ng, go car ng, ri er ra�ing, archer and ri er t bing. We also ha e inflatables for hire incl ding a mechanical b ll. We cater for gro ps. Book a spitbraai or potjie ith s. Lots of catering op ons to choose from.

We are famo s for o r bachelor's part island. Completel pri ate and sit ated in the Vaal ri er. The accommoda on consists of h ts, a bon fire area, kitchen and bathrooms. We are c rrentl r nning a special for J ne and J l : Gro ps larger than persons R . per person. Special incl des a spit braai, night accommoda on and a choice bet een ri er ra�ing or paintball.

continued from page 34...

this decision, but we have had to do it for the survival of the Club.

“The decision boiled down to us having a good nine holes with new and added facilities, or an 18-hole course where one nine was always damaged and affecting the quality of the golf experience.

“We believe Zwartkop will become a hive of activity and the “go to” place in our area for an all-round golf and family experience.

“It’s daunting but extremely

exciting at the same time and I’m looking forward to see it thrive for years to come.”

John Collier Survey

THE 16TH JOHN COLLIER ANNUAL SURVEY OF GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLANCE FOR SOUTH AFRICAN GOLF COURSES

The sixteenth John Collier Annual Survey on Environmental Compliance and Good Governance for South African Golf Courses is due to be published shortly and sent to clubs throughout South Africa. This Annual Survey provides an essential tool for chairpersons, management committees and club management of golf courses, as well as industry representative bodies.

The Annual Survey constitutes a benchmark for all golf clubs and representative bodies, from which to measure themselves against latest trends, and reference recent international research into the topic of sport environmental sustainability, which is becoming an important dimension of the global sport academy.

The Annual Survey takes a closer look at the findings regarding environmental compliance, in the light of the international research into sport environmental sustainability.

Part 2 of the Annual Survey sets the scene as to the methodology of the survey by explaining the survey population and related issues.

Thereafter, Part 3 unpacks the detail regarding the Annual Survey findings, with the net result being that for third consecutive year, we have noted a decline in compliance levels by golf clubs in South Africa.

In Part 4 we illustrate the continued flood of legislation impacting upon the legal universe for golf.

Part 5 discusses sport environmental sustainability research as it impacts upon our findings regarding good governance and environmental compliance. The core point being how those in sport, and in particular golf, at all levels, envision the future of sport environmental sustainability.

The Annual Survey concludes with a recommendation addressed to the leadership bodies of golf in South Africa, to play their role, through golf as a social influencer, by coordinating the preparation of appropriate education tools and narratives to build awareness and the benefits of environmental sustainability and that these organisations include a separate section in their Annual Reports dealing with environmental sustainability.

WHATELEY AND PHIPPS VICTORIOUS AT MOUNT EDGECOMBE

Central Gauteng Golf Union’s Samantha Whateley went wire-to-wire to lift the South African Women’s Stroke Play Championship title, while teenager Charlotte Phipps celebrated a hugely popular Silver Division victory at Mount Edgecombe Last month.

Rounds of 69 on the par-70 Woods Course and a level-par 72 and closing 75 on The Lakes were ample to earn Whateley a long-awaited victory on a tournament total of two-over-par. The CC Johannesburg golfer finished six shots clear of Kyra van Kan from Ekurhuleni, Chloe Royston from KZN, and Southern Cape’s Jasmine Furstenburg.

“I am so happy that I was able to pull it through. It has been a dream of mine to win this tournament since I was young. I have played it every year since I was 12 years old and to finally win it is really very special.”

After temperatures soared to close to 40 degrees in the second round, the golfers arrived to a cold, overcast and windy day at the Lakes.

It turned into a rollercoaster round for the normally steady Whateley, three shots clear at the start.

Having recovered from an early bogey on the second with a birdie on the fourth, she dropped

again on the seventh. She bounced back with a birdie at the turn and backed that up with another gain on the 11th hole, but then had a disappointing run of three bogeys on the trot from the 12th. Whateley found the cup again on the 15th for a satisfying birdie, but a double bogey at the final hole left her with a wry smile.

Fan favourite Charlotte Phipps gave the Mount Edgecombe members a proper reason to cheer when she made the most of her golf course knowledge in the familiar surroundings of her home course to race raced to a 14-stroke victory.

“I am very happy because the Lakes is my favourite home course, and to win here today in these conditions is extra special,” said Phipps, who

carded rounds of 84, 79 and 88.

“It’s great that I can keep this trophy at Mount Edgecombe. It was a tough week, because the rough is up, but I am happy with how I played. The majority of my drives were really good today and I putted really well and saved me a lot of shots.”

Oubaai Golf Club’s Holly Erler finished in second place with rounds of 92, 90 and 83 while Jaime Meth from CC Johannesburg was a further stroke adrift in third after carding rounds of 92, 89 and 85.

COUVRA MAKES SA AMATEUR HISTORY AT MOUNT EDGECOMBE

France’s Martin Couvra achieved an historic treble when the South African Amateur Championships wrapped up at Mount Edgecombe CC in February.

For a stretch of 234 holes, over nine days, on the KZN north coast, 19-year-old Couvra was simply unstoppable, winning the 72-hole South African Stroke Play Championship, the 36-hole Proudfoot Trophy and the SA Amateur match play to become the first player to win all three events in full regulation play in the same calendar year.

Couvra denied South Africa’s Kyle de Beer the chance to become only the third player since 1925 to defend the prestigious SA Amateur title when he edged the GolfRSA National Squad member 3 & 2 in the 36-hole final at The Woods Course.

“Kyle is a really good player,” Couvra said after the victory. “I played with him in the Stroke Play and he doesn’t make many mistakes. He played really well. I don’t think he missed a shot out there, so I’m pleased to have been able to beat him in what was a tough match.

The Frenchman got off to a shaky start against De Beer and trailed for 15 holes before a pair of bogeys by the defending champion saw Couvra turn with a 1-up lead. The pair were all square again after 22 holes before the Cannes golfer found an extra gear.

He birdied the 23rd and 24th and when De Beer bogeyed the par-three 27th hole he was in total command of the final. Another birdie at the 32nd hole took him to 4-up with four holes to play.

Although De Beer bravely made a birdie to win the 33rd, a pair of pars on the 34th cemented Couvra’s place in history.

“It’s incredible to win three events in South Africa,” said Couvra. “It feels good to make history. I’m feeling pretty tired right now, but I am really happy for the win.”

All week, Couvra has been in great form with his putting, but he credited his accuracy with his driver for the win in the final.

“I was good off the tee today, but my chipping and putting were not as good as they have been all week. I guess that is golf for you. My family came out to watch me for the match play and it was great to have them out here. Now we are going to make a family holiday in La Lucia”

The win sees Couvra claim a spot in this year’s South African Open.

“I played my first DP World Tour event last year, the Open de France, and it was a fantastic experience. I am very excited to come back to South Africa to play in the South African Open. It’s going to be incredible. There is always a strong field in this tournament.”

THE WORLD OF GOLF PAYS TRIBUTE TO JOHN PARAMOR

The golfing world continues to pay tribute to John Paramor, who passed away this February at the age of 67.

John was one of the most respected rules officials in the history of the game and a hugely popular figure across the entire European Tour group family.

His remarkable career spanned six different decades, during which time he became one of the most recognisable figures in the game, and he was

remembered with black ribbons and a minute’s silence at the Thailand Classic.

Here is what some of the leading players in the world had to say on John’s life and legacy in the game of golf.

“One the all-time best rules officials. John was around when I first turned pro and then a staple on the European Tour

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and all the World Golf Championships when he came over and was a rules official. He was just a great guy.” - Tiger Woods

“JP was one of the best. Always fair but firm in his refereeing and would join you in a glass of red or 2 in the evening. RIP John.” - Darren Clarke

“Very sad to hear of the passing of JP as he was known to us all. The world of

golf will miss a great referee and a fine man. My thoughts are with Katie and his family.” - Colin

Montgomerie

“Even before I came on Tour, John was a beloved character within the game of golf and I got to know him quite well over the past few years and it’s really sad. He was always a friendly face to see out on Tour and I always loved my conversations with him. It’s a sad day but he will be very fondly remembered by the whole golf community.” - Rory

McIlroy

EXPERIENCE TRUE LINKS GOLF IN SOUTH AFRICA

Why travel to the UK, when you can experience true links golf in your own back yard. Ranked number 7 in SA, Humewood is guaranteed to give you the true Scottish feel.

It is an escape from the mundane with our 18 hole championship course steeped in history and tradition. Having hosted 5 SA Opens and numerous Sunshine Tour events, Humewood’s unfiltered beauty captivates your attention and renders you tranquilized as you gaze into the distance. Located only 10 minutes from the airport and with numerous beachfront accommodation options, make Humewood Golf Club your next bucket list adventure.

LINKS , HAZARDS & FAIRWAYS

Our Jan/Feb edition winner was... Andre Grundling

ACROSS

1. Winner of the 1938 Masters, surname (6)

4. The par-3 third hole at Pacifico Golf Course is famous for this type of green, the only natural one in the world (6)

9. The second Chilean, after Roy Mackenzie to earn full membership to the European Tour (6,7)

10. The Championship Course at Royal Johannesburg & Kensington GC (4)

11. A hint, you can sink balls with it but not on a putting green (3)

12. He ain’t opposed to change (4)

15. Dimples make a golf ball more? (11)

18. Louis Oosthuizen’s nickname was born as such (4)

19. A rearranged SAP sponsor golfers who show their fangs (3)

20. Acronym for Electronic Business (4)

23. Two strokes off the lead in the third round at the 1991 Open, he suffered a stress fracture in his left leg on the 9th hole (7,6)

24. Handles a driver with skill (6)

25. Born in Pretoria in 1973, he won for the first time in 2002 at the Telkom PGA Championship, surname (6)

DOWN

1. After walking 36 holes, he panted and gasped (6)

2. She won the 2007 Women’s World Cup of Golf with her Paraguay team partner Julieta Granada (7,6)

3. Ready to drop (4)

5. Rory will completely ignore Patrick (4)

6. Golf Estate in Melkbosstrand, Western Cape (8,5)

7. Situation in match play when a player or team leads by as many holes as there are holes left to play (6)

8. He represented Japan at the World Cup of Golf on four occasions, 1969, 1970, 1971 & 1980 (5,6)

13. A short, high arc shot (3)

14. Happy golfer mentioned frequently in Bud, Sweat and Tees: A Walk on the Wild Side of the PGA Tour by Alan Shipnuck, surname (3)

16. The amount of curve you must allow for a putt on a sloping green (6)

17. 13 at Augusta (6)

21. A professional golfer is financially compensated (4)

22. Sponsor of the first tournament sanctioned by the PGA Tour in Japan (4)

RESULTS & RANKINGS

SUNSHINE TOUR

SDC OPEN, ZEBULA COUNTRY CLUB, 16TH - 19TH FEBRUARY 2023

NELSON MANDELA BAY CHAMPIONSHIP, HUMEWOOD GOLF CLUB, 23RD -

26TH FEBRUARY 2023

PGA TOUR

THE GENESIS INVITATIONAL, THE RIVIERA COUNTRY CLUB, CALIFORNIA, USA, FEB 16 - 19, 2023

KORN FERRY TOUR

CHAMPIONS TOUR

THE HONDA CLASSIC, PGA NATIONAL RESORT (THE CHAMPION), FLORIDA, USA, FEB 23

DP WORLD TOUR

EUROPEAN LEGENDS TOUR

LADIES EUROPEAN TOUR

CHALLENGE TOUR

LPGA TOUR

Sunshine Tour

APRIL

Amateur events - Men

20

WP Senior Masters

GC

19 – 21

North West Open

GC 27 – 29

NOMADS SA Boys U19 Championship Qualification Pecanwood Golf & CC 30 – 01

APRIL 2023

NOMADS SA Boys U19 Championship MP Pecanwood Golf & CC

Northern Cape Amateur & Mid-Amateur Open Sishen GC 3 – 5

1 – 2

Farm GC 9

10 – 12

NOMADS Gowrie Farm U15 Challenge

Highveld Mid-Amateur Open Middelburg CC

Boland Amateur Stroke Play Paarl GC

Senior/Super Senior IPT - A Sections San Lameer CC 17 – 21

17 – 21

Elements Private Golf Reserve 17 – 19

Senior/Super Senior IPT - B Sections

Western Province Amateur Qualification Strand GC

Western Province Amateur MP

Free State Mid-Amateur Open

SA Mid-Amateur Stroke Play

GC

GC

GC

MARCH, APRIL & MAY 2023

Open

Amateur events - Women

MARCH 2023

GC 20 – 21 Nomads SA Girls Rose Bowl Championship

6 – 9 Nomads South African Junior International Girls

City GC 20 – 21 Nomads SA Girls Rose Bowl Bronze Division

APRIL 2023

1 – 2

City GC

West GC Silver Division

WP Women’s Amateur Championship Champs /

Cobra/Puma CGGU Ladies and Junior

Championship 2023 (A Division) 2

Jhb And Kensington GC

Cobra/Puma CGGU Ladies Championship 2023 Royal Jhb And Kensington GC (Silver and Bronze Div) 10 – 11

Free State Open, Closed, Junior & Mid-Amateur

Championship 2023 16 – 18

KwaZulu-Natal Women’s Amateur Championship 2023

GC

Country Club N/A

MAY 2023

1 – 4

SA Women’s Mid-Am Inter Provincial Tournament 2023

London GC 21 – 24 SA Women 72 Hole Teams Championship 2022

MOSTERT WINS FIRST CHALLENGE TOUR TITLE AT HUMEWOOD

Dylan Mostert birdied the last to win the Nelson Mandela Bay Championship by a single stroke at Humewood GG at the end of February, and earn his second Sunshine Tour title and his first on the European Challenge Tour.

Mostert stood over a three-metre birdie putt on the final green that he needed to separate himself from fellow South African Jaco Prinsloo, whose storming 62 had earned him the clubhouse lead on 15 under par.

And Mostert took the words of his sports psychologist to heart as he rolled in the putt

for a final round of 67 and victory on 16 under par.

“We spent a lot of time talking before this tournament and the main message was for me to just stay calm. My mental game definitely got me through this week. That’s what won me the golf tournament,” said Mostert after a solid final round performance in gusting conditions.

“I was so relieved when I holed that birdie putt to win. It was a grind the whole week with the wind. The golf course was difficult for me. But

continued on page 57...

once you taste victory like this you just want more of it. To be a two-time winner is a great achievement for me.”

“Winning is hard, and this is such a relief. The standard of golf on the Sunshine Tour and Challenge Tour is so good. All the golfers out here are hungry and want to win and move to the next level in their careers. I’m definitely going to play Challenge Tour events this year. Casey Jarvis and I will tour together, and the main goal is to get that DP World Tour card, so I’ll put my head down and go for that.”

PRICES

VALID

between the

Tour and Challenge Tour, with Southern African golfers making a clean sweep.

Pinnacle Point improves SA

Now #15 - Pinnacle Point is one of a rare group of golf courses in the world built on high cliffs overlooking the ocean. It’s a spectacular experience and ranks with the likes of Pebble Beach in California, Old Head in Ireland, Kauri Cliffs in New Zealand and Playa Grande in the Dominican Republic.

Pinnacle Point has twice been named Africa’s Best Golf Course and South Africa’s Best Golf Course, in 2022 and 2020, at the World Golf Awards.

Several of the holes at Pinnacle Point are amazing in terms of wow factor, and even when you’re playing inland you still enjoy wonderful views of the Indian Ocean. The Peter Matkovich course in Mossel Bay is possibly South Africa’s major golf attraction

for tourists, and has contributed immensely to the success of the Garden Route as an award-winning golf destination. With sensational views from every tee, it was once described by St Francis Links CEO Jeff Clause as golf on an “Imax Screen.”

It became a global phenomenon from the day it was first opened for play in late 2006, and was soon featured on the covers of international golf magazines. American writer George Peper described it as being set “on more jaw-dropping terrain than Pebble Beach and a much better course than Old Head. This is extreme golf, but it is honest

SA Top 100 Courses ranking

golf. There are no silly holes – just engaging, exhilarating ones.”

Risk-reward holes are a feature of Pinnacle Point, none more so than the 350-metre eighth, where brave golfers can take a tiger line route over a ravine directly at the green. The carry is some 275 metres. In the 2022 Vodacom Origins of Golf Final there were six eagles at No 8. Local pro Martin Vorster had scores of 2-7-4-3 here in the four rounds. Level par. In the same tournament, Christiaan Burke made 20 birdies and finished with a one-over-par total of 289. Casey Jar-

vis played the par-3 seventh in 1-2-3-4 over the four rounds.

Pinnacle Point is primarily a cart course owing to the severity of the terrain. The opening three holes climb uphill, and there are long walks around ravines where having a cart helps speed up play.

By SA Top 100 Courses Editor Stuart McLean.

Website: www.pinnaclepointestate.co.za

Contact number +27 (0) 44 606 5300

SWEET REVENGE FOR ALEXANDER WITH JABRA LADIES OPEN VICTORY

Fifth in 2019. Third in 2021. Cas Alexander exacted her revenge on the Glendower GC in February as she carded a six-under-par 66 to scythe through field for a one-stroke victory in the R1-million Jabra Ladies Open. She lifted her second title of the Sunshine Ladies Tour 2023 season after winning the season-opening SuperSport Ladies Challenge, and the one-shot victory shot the Ekurhuleni native to the summit of the Investec Order of Merit.

Alexander set the early clubhouse target at 14-under-par with her bogey-free round, then waited to see how things would unfold.

Mireia Prat from Spain, who led the first two rounds, was tied for the lead, but handed the victory to Alexander with a finishing bogey. South Africa’s Kaleigh Telfer continued a strong run in her rookie season on the local circuit, backing up a top five in the Dimension Data Ladies Challenge with a superb third

place finish in her Jabra Ladies Classic debut.

“I knew a low round could do it. I was hoping for an eight-under – I actually used a Titleist 8 ball because of that. I just thought to myself I was going to keep it really tidy. I knew I was three shots behind but if I could get to three-under as quickly as possible, then I would feel I was level with the lead and I could get going from there. Today’s 66 was really good – it felt like an eight-under. With no drops, you feel like the birdies really count.”

For Alexander, the win settled the beef she felt she had with Glendower after her opening 66. “It wasn’t a particularly good 66 on the first day,” she said. “The course was there for the taking, and I felt it was very average.

“From the beginning this morning, I felt if I could get a low one in, I could maybe stand a chance. Things went my way, and a couple of putts dropped.”

SENEKAL ENJOYS WIRE-TO-WIRE WIN IN SDC OPEN

As JJ Senekal drove to the Zebula golf course for the final round of the SDC Open, his new favourite playlist was on the car radio. The volume was turned up to 21. That’s when he decided to turn it up to 25, to match his desired target of 25 under par to win this tournament.

A few hours later, Senekal rolled in a birdie putt on the 18th to win this Sunshine Tour and European Challenge Tour tournament with a final round of 65 and by four strokes. On 25 under par.

“It was very emotional. I put a lot of hard work into this starting from the beginning of last year. It all comes down to hard work. This means the world to me. I was knocking for quite a while now and this week was a good

example of staying patient, playing good golf and knowing what to do and when to do it,” Senekal said after his wire-to-wire victory.

Casey Jarvis took second place on 21 under par with a closing 67, and the young South African threw everything at Senekal during a thrilling back nine in which he chipped in for eagle on the 15th and then holed a huge birdie putt on 16 to close to within one shot of Senekal with two holes to play.

“Keeping Casey off my back was hard. Well done to him. He played an unbelievable round of golf. He really chased me down on the back nine. He started firing over the last few holes but I did what I needed to and hit some good

continued on page 65...

GEORGE GOLF CLUB

continued from page 64..

golf shots,” said Senekal.

“It was a big relief. I thought I’d hit it short but once you see the ball next to the hole and you know you’ve got a three-shot lead and are tapping in for birdie, it’s all the pressure off your shoulders. It feels amazing. It’s been five years since my last win. To finally get it done is a great feeling.”

Senekal also won himself a 20-year Zebula Holiday Villa Share worth R320 000.

Covering 254 hectares of the Knysna clifftops, the golf course has spectacular views of both the Knysna Lagoon and the Indian Ocean.

The course is designed to include a full range of shots, making it a challenging, rewarding and complete golf experience for all players of all levels.

BEKKER WINS DIMENSION DATA PRO-AM TO CLAIM MAIDEN CHALLENGE TOUR TITLE

Oliver Bekker claimed his second Dimension Data Pro-Am title in a dominant display at Fancourt in February as he won by four shots in front of his home crowd.

Bekker took a five-shot lead into the final round and closed with a measured 68 on the Montagu course to win on 22 under par overall. Sweden’s Adam Blomme took second place on 18 under par with a final round of 66.

Bekker first won this title in 2012 and is now only the third player since the tournament’s inception in 1996 to win the Dimension Data Pro-Am twice, joining Nick Price (1997 and 1998) and Darren Fichardt (2004 and 2010).

“When you start with such a big lead it’s almost a relief that you didn’t waste it. It’s amazing to be here in front of my family and friends. It’s not often you play a golf tournament and you’ve got a hundred people following you and you know almost all of them. I’m just elated,” said Bekker.

On another magnificent day on the Garden Route, Bekker parred his way through the first seven holes before his first birdie of the final round on the par-three eighth hole. He added four more birdies on the back nine, and could

continued on page 69...

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afford a single bogey, to put himself well and truly beyond reach.

Hennie O’Kennedy came storming through the field with a bogey-free round of 65 to finish on 16 under par, and Frenchman Ugo Coussaud tried to make a contest of it with a sublime 63 to finish on 14 under. But Bekker had done more than enough to keep himself beyond any serious challenge.

“I did watch the scoreboard quite a bit and played rather safe. I didn’t try to be too aggressive and make any unforced errors. The course was there for the taking today, but I didn’t want to disappoint anybody and still go out there and put together a good final round.”

Scores: Top 10

267 - Oliver Bekker 67 68 64 68

271 - Adam Blomme 66 67 72 66

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St Ives Lodge and Venue is nestled in the iconic midlands meander in Kwazulu-Natal. Perfect base when exploring this par t of the countr y, or the perfect backdrop for a destination wedding.

The lodge boasts several rooms, sparkling swimming pool and hiking trails, guests also have access to fishing dams, hiking trails among the wildlife and so much more.

The BOMA food bar is on the St Ives proper ty, overlooking the main dam. The BOMA has fast become known for the best ribs and pizzas in the midlands, both of which are prepared in a wood fired oven.

State of the ar t jungle gyms and kids play area in full view of the dining area, where parents can keep a watchful eye over their loved ones while enjoying their meals.

BERNHARD LANGER TIES HALE IRWIN FOR MOST PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS

Bernhard Langer equalled Hale Irwin’s record of most wins on the PGA TOUR Champions by successfully defending his Chubb Classic title in Florida in February.

The German claimed his 45th victory with a seven under par 65 on Sunday for a three-stroke victory over Pádraig Harrington and Steve Stricker at Tiburon Golf Club Black Course.

Langer also extended his record as the oldest winner on the American over-50s circuit (65 years, 5 months, 23 days).

“There’s been a lot of talk about catching Hale for the last few years, and there’s a lot of pressure, especially today when you get this close,” he said.

“Then you have thoughts running through your mind, and you’re going, wow, you’re this close, you don’t want to lose it now.

“But that’s the wrong stuff to think. You’ve got to just focus on one shot at a time.”

It is the fifth time the two-time Masters Champion has won the event, having previously lifted the trophy in 2011, 2013, 2016 and 2022.

He finished the week in style as he hit driver from the final fairway on his way to a closing birdie.

“I thought I had a one-shot lead and I needed to make par to win, and [my caddie] said, ‘You actually have a two-shot lead.’ And I said, ‘Well, I don’t trust leaderboards.’”

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NOTTIES RESTAURANT AND PUB

The legendary notties Pub has been a local favourite for over 150 years!

Ideal location for golf groups playing Gowrie Farm or Boschhoek and other Midlands courses

OCKIE STRYDOM PRODUCES BIRDIE BLITZ TO WIN IN SINGAPORE

South African Ockie Strydom fired a sizzling 63 in his final round to win the 2023 Singapore Classic.

It was a second DP World Tour win in six starts for Strydom after he managed nine birdies and no dropped shots on his way to the low round of the week and a 19-under-par total.

That was good enough for a one-shot victory over Sami Välimäki, who looked on course for the win midway through the final day.

Strydom was four shots off the pace overnight with Wang and Del Rey out in front at Laguna National Golf Resort Club.

Välimäki was the one bursting through, posting birdies at the first, third, fifth and sixth. He picked up another at the eighth and by the time he nailed a 30-footer for his sixth gain of the day at the tenth,

he was three shots clear.

Up ahead, Strydom tapped in for his sixth birdie of the day at the par-five 13th to get to 16 under. He had already gained shots at the first, third, fifth, seventh and ninth.

The South African climbed into a share of the lead when he made it back-to-back birdies at the 14th but Välimäki was back in front after taking advantage of the 13th. His eagle attempt all the way across the green left a tap-in for him to go out on his own again.

His birdie putt at the long 14th stayed above ground but Strydom missing his own attempt from around

continued on page 75...

continued from page 74..

nine feet at the 15th kept Välimäki in pole position. But Strydom was far from finished. He rolled in a tricky downhill putt for birdie at the par-four 16th to share the lead once more.

It looked like advantage Strydom when Välimäki fired his tee shot at the 16th way right, over the cart path leaving a blind approach, but he recovered brilliantly, only to miss the birdie attempt from a few feet.

Strydom left himself a tricky up and down when he went through the green with his second to the par-five 18th but he held his nerve, jabbed it into the banking and rolled it stone dead.

NEWS CLIP

That brilliant birdie set the target at 19 under, leaving Välimäki heading up the last needing an eagle to win and birdie to tie.

The Finn was short with his approach and could only manage a par.

Strydom’s maiden win, at the Alfred Dunhill Championship, was back in December and helped him get over the line.

He said: “It’s a mindset that’s changing at the moment. When you’ve been in that situation before and you know you can do it again.

“I was thinking about not being here this week. Hitting it so badly. My coach flew in and my wife said to me, ‘listen, maybe this is your week’. And look what happened, it’s my week.”

Whatever happened

Next up in our line-up of golfing legends from the past is a man who certainly did not have it easy in his early days. The ‘law’ at the time prohibited him from playing golf where and when he wanted to, solely because of the pigmentation of his skin.

It is truly remarkable to speak with Mokgeteng ‘John’ Mashego as you get a small glimpse into how different South Africa was for black people under apartheid.

Mashego though is not one to dwell on the past and expressed his desire to focus rather on the future and reflect on the many achievements that he has had.

“IwontheBushveldClassicin1991in Ellisrastobecomethefirstblacktowin atournamentontheSunshineTour”

Mokgeteng Mashego grew up in White River and came to Johannesburg in 1971 to play football.

However, his love of golf and his natural ability to play the game exceptionally well, led to him turning professional in 1980.

In 1981 John became a Tournament Players Association (the black equivalent of the SAPGA) member and in 1984 he became a Sunshine Tour temporary member.

Speaking to SA Golf Trader, Mokgeteng spoke fondly about his past “I won the Bushveld Classic in 1991 in Ellisras to become the first black to win a tournament on the Sunshine Tour, I finished second to John Bland in Namibia and second to John Nelson in Newcastle in 2002”.

Mashego amassed almost R400 000 during ten seasons

(playing more than two hundred and Tour.

Mashego was a member of the European until 2009. His best finish was tied El Sheikh Seniors Open in Egypt in He rediscovered some of his best form season, with a share of tenth place Midas Group share of 13th Senior Open

Those results, to prevent where he exempt card.

He found registering

He finished Seniors Open appearances

Mokgeteng member member

Mashego clearly seems in a good space say “My first win on the Sunshine Senior Park Golf Club in the North West with win came in Gauteng at the Ebotse scored rounds of 64 & 72.

“Iabsolutely sionalgolf Sunshine

happened to?...

and fifty events) on the Sunshine

European Senior Tour from 2002 for second at the Jolie Ville Sharm March 2005.

form towards the end of the 2006 place in difficult conditions at The Group English Seniors Open and a 13th in torrential rain at the Estoril Open of Portugal.

results, however, were not enough prevent a trip to Qualifying School, he missed out in a play-off for a fully card.

found some consistency in 2007, registering three top 20 finishes.

finished tied eighth in the Russian Open in one of his six appearances in 2008.

absolutelyloveplayingprofesgolfonthe SunshineSeniorTour”.

Mokgeteng Mashego is now an honorary at Ruimsig Country Club and is a of the Sunshine Senior Tour.

space these days and went on to Senior Tour was at Leopard with scores of 69 & 70, my second Ebotse Golf & Country Estate, where I

Mokgeteng’John’Mashego

“I absolutely love playing professional golf on the Sunshine Senior Tour”.

Mokgeteng Mashego we salute you.

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LIMPOPO CHAMPIONSHIP CELEBRATES ITS BIG 5 HISTORY

The fifth edition of the Sunshine Tour’s Limpopo Championship hosted by the Limpopo Tourism Agency is expected to be one of the most memorable in the history of this tournament when it is played at the popular Euphoria Golf and Lifestyle Estate from 30 March to 2 April.

A total prize fund of R2 million will once again attract a full field of professionals to an event that has in the past featured Sunshine Tour, European Challenge Tour and DP World Tour campaigners challenging for glory.

The Limpopo Championship boasts a strong list of past champions, including multiple DP World Tour winner Brandon Stone, and JC Ritchie, now a DP World Tour campaigner and the only player to have won this title twice in 2019 and 2020.

The country’s other stars such as Wilco Nienaber, Oliver Bekker, Daniel van Tonder and Hennie du Plessis have also all finished runner-up here over the years.

Such has been the stronghold South African golfers have had on a tournament that remains close to their hearts as it is played in the magnificent Limpopo bushveld that Poland’s Mateusz Gradecki remains the only international winner with his three-stroke triumph here in 2022.

Andrew Dipela, the LTA Chairman, said: “This prestigious tournament is a catalyst for Limpopo’s destination marketing and tourism growth. It anchored the tourism industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, creates much-needed local jobs, attracts significant economic investment, and supports community development.”

Tournament organisers are this year preparing for an even greater influx of spectators with a week-long programme that will include a VIP hospitality area, live entertainment and even a pool party, all while showcasing the natural wonders of the Limpopo Province and its unique culture.

Moses Ngobeni, LTA CEO, said: “The Limpopo Tourism Agency is extremely proud of this tournament and its positioning of Limpopo and the Waterberg District as a sought-after golf destination.”

Thomas Abt, Commissioner of the Sunshine Tour, said: “We are delighted to be visiting Limpopo once again for an event that has become an important part of the Sunshine Tour calendar. The Limpopo Tourism Agency has done immense work in growing the game of golf in the Waterberg District, and using this tournament to grow tourism in the whole province. We are proud to support this process.”

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&

Golf course superintendent

WITH JACO FOURIE Q A

Pezula Golf Club and Championship Course

1. When did you realise that turf management was the industry you want to take further?

I have always been an outdoors person. In 2008 I got the opportunity to work for Turfworx under Danny Maritz, 15 years later and I am still enjoying every minute.

2. What is the best and worst part of being a golf course superintendent?

The best is having the support of a motivated team delivering high standard maintenance to reach the goals set. Going around the course and seeing the plan come to life. The worst is the working hours. When the friends are out golfing and fishing during December holidays, we get to water greens and hotspots on the course.

Pezula pushes during the year, a combination of local visitors during school breaks and the international visitors in between does make course maintenance challenging.

4. What are the differences in grasses (fairway, rough, greens) at Pezula to other parts of the country?

Pezula is one of very few courses in South Africa that have cool season fairways. Most courses in South Africa have either Kikuyu, Paspalum or Cynodon on the tees, fairways and rough. The fairways at Pezula are a mixture of Rye and Tall Fescue, the tees are Bent, the greens are Bent POA mix and the rough is Kikuyu.

5. Does one need different machinery on course for different types of grasses around the country?

The primary machinery stays the same. Warm season grasses, for example, need more verti-cutting compared to a grass like Rye (cool season) or fescue.

6. How big a difference does climate and location play in golf course maintenance?

Climate and location play a huge role in turf management. I have three different climate locations (microclimates) on my course that are treated differently. Airflow, sunlight, and the high and low areas on the course makes a big difference in our maintenance strategy.

3. You are at Pezula, a coastal course, what is your biggest challenge maintaining a coastal course in the Garden Route? Despite the climate, the number of rounds

7. To what extent does course setup affect slow play, and how do you deal with it?

Course setup does influence pace of play, it comes down to the communication between

the maintenance team and Club to identify the capabilities of the golfers on that specific day and set the course accordingly.

Yes, the course staff need more time to perform cultural practices to improve the surfaces and give their members and visitors the best experience.

10. Do maintenance staff ever come into conflict with golfers and how do you deal with this?

I have no previous experience with staff having conflict with golfers, we have a strict channel of communication. All queries or questions will be handled by myself or my assistant.

11. How important is it for golfers to repair their divots and pitch marks immediately vs only a couple of days or week later? Pitch marks and divots should be repaired as soon as possible to ensure quicker recovery and a better experience for the golfers behind.

12. People always complain about inconsistent bunkers, how difficult is it to maintain consistent bunkers and do you implement general checks and how?

We have 128 bunkers on our course and 4 staff members manually raking all the bunkers every day. Wind, rain and irrigation plays a big role in bunkers playing inconsistently. We do regular bunker audits with a detailed sheet that scores sand levels, compaction, drainage and the condition of the face.

8. In your opinion does course machinery or golfers spread more seeds like POA or diseases?

If you don’t treat POA seed wall to wall on your course, spreading of the seeds by machinery will be more than what than the golfers’ shoes can. On average we cut between 15ha and 20ha every day, the possibility of seed movement is massive.

9. Do you think it should be mandatory for each golf courses to close one day per week for maintenance?

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!

SUNSHINE TOUR ANNOUNCES NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH SA TOURISM

SA Tourism has joined the list of exclusive partners to the Sunshine Tour.

As the official tourism marketing division of the South African government, SA Tourism’s partnership brings a significant enhancement to the already extensive positioning of South Africa on the global stage through the Sunshine Tour schedule and its international tournaments on the Challenge Tour and DP World Tour, with a broadcast reach of millions of homes worldwide.

The Sunshine Tour supports the tourism objectives of SA Tourism through the weekly exposure of hundreds of professional golfers, caddies and their families to the country and which in turn stimulates the local economy in communities where tournaments are played.

“The Sunshine Tour is a major driver of tourism and awareness of South Africa and its wonders through our nationwide tournaments and extensive

international broadcast reach at our flagship events. Every week our tournaments showcase another incredible part of South Africa, from our major cities and world-class golf courses to our rich natural wonders,” said Thomas Abt, Commissioner of the Sunshine Tour.

“The partnership with SA Tourism completes this offering and we look forward to helping them promote South Africa as not only a tourism destination, but also a leading sports destination.”

TheSunshineTourcaddiesplayakeyroleinpromotingSouthAfricaas theyinteractwithleadinggolfersfromaroundtheworld.Credit:Petri Oeschger/SunshineTour.

FOR ONLY R880 PER YEAR

GOLF IN STYLE & COMFORT AT OUR BEAUTIFUL HOTEL

This golfer’s jewel is located on the exquisite Lower South Coast and is in close proximity to 7 pristine golf courses including the Wild Coast and San Lameer. Tailor made golf packages cater to individual and group retreats. Offering luxury accommodation, Spa treatments, a shuttle service, delicious meals and most importantly, and efficient barman!

Retreat to paradise unaffected by the current water crisis.

039 311 2675

reservations@estuaryhotel.co.za

Kindly visit our website @ www.estuaryhotel.co.za

Monday and Thursday Specials

Sharing.

R430pp

Single.

R620pp

Let’sknockLargePatchonthehead this autumn

By: Sue de Zwart

Large Patch (also known to some as kikuyu patch) has become a challenging disease to kikuyu growers in South Africa.

Step 1: Use your stroke saver to indicate Large Patch and other pests on your scouting map.

Step 2: Apply Headway Maxx in autumn & spring and water in immediately.

2 litres/ha as a preventative

3 litres/ha as a curative & repeat 21 days later

Talking Turf Top Tips

Apply Headway Maxx prior to your autumn & spring treatment as Large Patch is spread by dead & alive plant material …….

If you have a poa annua issue on your kikuyu fairways –add Pennant Magnum to your Headway Maxx in autumn to prevent your poa annua germinating in April & August – ensure you get your Pennant Magnum applications down in March & July & repeat 6 weeks later. Apply to moist soil, water in within 24 hours & do not break the barrier by spiking.

Greens

Poa germinates in April & August so try not hollow during these months should you not want to encourage poa annua in your playing surface.

Autumn treatment

Fortunately, we can assist growers by getting this disease under control – however it is a 3-year journey.

UDBG,

Paspalum & Bermuda greens

Large Patch on kikuyu fairways

An 8mm hollow tyne and backfilling with your original construction is all you need in March or early April. Do not verticut to thin your greens at this time of year.

Make sure you raise your mowing heights to 3mm (UDBG) and 3,5mm - 4mm (Paspalum & Bermuda). Drop your Primo Maxx rates down to 100 ml/ha until your soil temps reach 10 degrees Celsius. Stop primo Maxx once soil temps reach 8-10 degrees Celsius and start your primo applications once you have recovered from your spring treatment. Your Primo Maxx rates will be 400ml/ha every 10-14 days until autumn on bermuda & paspalum greens. 200 ml/ha every 7-14 days on UDBG greens.

Bent greens

An 12mm hollow tyne and backfilling with your original construction is all you need in March or early May (as long as soil temp above 18 degrees Celsius). A light verticut is a great tool to relieve some organic material & set you up for spring. Do not be too aggressive – you can always do more …….

Make sure you raise your mowing heights between 3mm and 3,5mm. Drop your Primo Maxx rates down to 100 ml/ ha until your soil temps reach 10 degrees Celsius.

Stop

Primo Maxx once soil temps reach 8-10 degrees Celsius and start your primo applications once you have recovered from your spring treatment. Your Primo Maxx rates will be 300-400ml/ha every 10-14 days until autumn.

Bent/poa greens

An 8mm hollow tyne and backfilling with your original construction is all you need in March/early April. A light verticut is a great tool to relieve some organic material & set you up for spring. Should you have high thatch levels plan on a graden in spring.

Do not be too aggressive – you can always do more …….

Make sure you raise your mowing heights between 3mm and 3,25mm. Drop your Primo Maxx rates down to 100 ml/ha until your soil temps reach 10 degrees Celsius.

Stop primo Maxx once soil temps reach 8-10 degrees Celsius and start your primo applications once you have recovered from your spring treatment. Your Primo Maxx rates will be 200ml-300ml/ha every 1014 days until autumn.

Overseeding: A great tool for managing poa annua

Autumn or Spring are the perfect time to do your bent overseeding if you are trying to convert to a new bent variety or fight poa annua.

Apply your primo maxx at normal rates for your turf type prior to autumn/spring treatment to hold your greens back & allow seed to germinate establish. Verticut/hollow tyne 12mm/seed with a Ghandy dropseeder or Redexim speedseeder. Follow your seeding with 1kg Heritage, 1 litre Ryder, 10-20 litres/ha Qualibra & 10-20 litres/ha Talking Turf Star.

Water in 30 minutes after the application & you will be blown away by the results.

Your playing surface quality is determined by your level of moisture management/irrigation practises, sound cultural, agronomic & integrated pest management programmes.

Remember to submit your latest soil results to sales@ talkingturf.co.za and we will gladly update your agronomic & integrated pest management programmes for the year ahead.

Bluegrass weed poa annua turfgrass Auburn Alabama

Poa annua tuft

WEEKLYSPECIALRATES

Visitors

Tuesdays,Thursdays

R450.00pp including a cart

Members

Tuesdays,Thursdays

R200.00 excluding a cart

Wednesdays

R450.00pp excluding a cart

Carts R180.00pp sharing (Valid till end of May)

Bookings: 012 244 8080 I

golf@pecanwoodhoa.co.za

TURNING BACK THE CLOCK WHO is the Golfer from the past?

• Our mystery golfer was born October 7th 1914 in Springfield, Missouri and passed away December 24th 2003 in Akron, Ohio.

• He is best known for winning the Masters in 1946.

• His serious demeanour earned him the nickname, The Missouri Mortician.

• In 1942, he interrupted his career to join the U.S. Navy for three years during World War II.

• In 1947, he was part of the American team that won the Ryder Cup. While the United States defeated Britain 11-1, his loss to Sam King (4 and 3) prevented the Americans from a clean sweep.

• He retired in the 1950s, having won five tournaments during his PGA career.

Answer on page 110

Casandra Alexander

Photo courtesy of the Sunshine Tour

10 CAN YOU FIND ALL ?

SPOT THE DIFFERENCES

Photo by Sunshine Tour

Photo by Sunshine Tour

NEW LEGENDSDAO WILL REVOLUTIONISE GOLF COURSE OWNERSHIP

South African golf will enter a new era with the historic first purchase of one of the country’s iconic golf courses using blockchain technology and crypto currency, and with the Legend Golf & Safari course in Limpopo set to pioneer this new vision to completely redefine traditional golf course ownership using NFTs.

LegendsDAO (Decentralised Autonomous Organisation) today announced its launch of an NFT (Non-fungible token) sale to purchase the Legend Golf & Safari course, which is in danger of closing its doors.

The project is the first step in what the company foresees will become a global trend towards the decentralisation of the sports industry through NFT funding and giving a community of investors shared ownership of major sports facilities or even teams.

A total of 2 000 LegendsDAO NFTs will be sold at $3 000, approximately 2 Ethereum (ETH), each to raise the $6 million required to purchase the Legend Golf & Safari course and begin its restoration to the standard that saw it make history as the first South African golf course featuring 18 holes designed by 18 individual champion golfers, including Trevor Immelman, Jim Furyk, Bernhard Langer, Colin Montgomerie, Justin Rose, Padraig Harrington, Ian Woosnam, Vijay Singh, Sergio Garcia, Retief Goosen and others.

The public will be able to pay the $3 000 using either Ethereum blockchain technology, or standard debit and credit cards.

continued on page 106...

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.

MASTERS WEEKEND AT

7 APRIL – 10 APRIL ‘23

FRIDAY: MASTERS DAY 1

Play the course as normal in the morning. Par 3 Contest – 3pm shotgun start

Jumping Castle for the kids.

Hole in One Easter Egg Hunt for Adults - Win a special prize (Hunt Limited on Faiwarys only)

SATURDAY: MASTERS DAY 2

Play the course with the Master’s Scorecard Competition day.

Build your own pizza station for the kids.

Jumping Castle

SUNDAY: Easter Sunday Lunch

Sunday Feast – R350 pp kids under 12 years eat free Easter Egg Hunt

Jumping Castle

MONDAY: Brunch – R150

(Includes Fresh Juice; Coffee & Tea) kids under 12 years eat free

Mark Wiltshire Golf

NEWS CLIP

continued from page 102...

The 2 000 exclusive owners will receive lifetime membership of the golf course and its facilities, including the popular Extreme 19th par-three hole with its tee box on the top of the Hanglip Mountain and accessible only by helicopter, the surrounding Entabeni Safari Conservancy featuring the Big 5, and a range of other future projects at the golf estate.

LegendsDAO allows for transparent governance and decision-making on all aspects related to the project, equally shared by the 2 000 members who have equal voting rights on all matters related to the development.

LegendsDAO is the brainchild of the company SixtySixPercent, which has a history of specialising in various crypto projects since 2015.

“In the same way that the Internet changed the world in the Nineties, we believe we are now entering a similar era with crypto technology. Our vision is to successfully integrate the crypto world and the

real world and change the way of doing business. LegendsDAO is the perfect vehicle for this,” added LegendsDAO co-founder Shawn Smith.

LegendsDAO aims to restore this golf course to international tour standards and future plans include the development of a new 80-bed boutique hotel and spa on the estate for which the building plans have already been passed, the restoration of the 10-hole par-three Tribute Course, and the development of a 150-home estate around the golf course complete with a private landing strip.

Kambuka rated in top 5 best 9 hole Golf Cour ses.

* Clubhouse *Kitchen & bar * Pro-shop *cloakroom

Our rates will remain unchanged as for 2021 until 01.06.2022

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.

FOR SALE R300,000.00 + VAT RENT2OWN @ 60 MONTHS FIXED =R7,000.00 + VAT

THIS UNIT HAS A 12 MONTH/500 HOUR WARRANTY WHICH EVER COMES FIRST

THIS UNIT HAS A 12 MONTH/500 HOUR WARRANTY WHICH EVER COMES FIRST

Golf

GAUTENG

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

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

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

The Golfers Club (011) 475-7519

West Rand

The Pro Shop (011) 602-8888

303-0940

447-0906

256-1270

943-1933

933-3711

052-4083

(057) 353-2131

Parys GE (056) 818-1567 Schoeman Park GC (051) 408-3811

402-1489

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

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

Golf Shops

Polokwane GC (015) 295-4118

Swartklip GC (014) 786-0186

Univ. of Limpopo GC (015) 268-2183

Zebula CC (014) 734 7700

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

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

MPUMALANGA

TO BE LISTED IN THE SA GOLF TRADER DIRECTORY, PLEASE 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

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