There’s always time for 9

Page 1

There’s always time for 9


There’s always time for 9 S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

Golf has made a remarkably strong recovery in the last year, with more rounds being played and equipment sales booming.

2

activities seem to take 2 hours (bowls, tennis, gym) and one would think that in today’s world the time needed to play 18-holes is excessive. Rather play nine than do not play at all!

However, our lives are busier and more complex than ever. With work commitments the hours slip by and then we still need to fit in time with our children. Leisure time is precious, and the considerable portion of a day that an 18hole round often requires is not something everybody can afford.

It is a misconception that golfers who play 9 are beginners, 9-hole golf should be seen as a legitimate alternative and it is an experience that is as complete and as enjoyable as 18-holes. It is also consistent with the time honoured traditions of the game.

9-holes typically take 2 hours to complete and it makes sense to promote shorter rounds that golfers can fit into busy lifestyles. Most other recreational

18-hole golf will always be the mainstay but many people were introduced to the game on 9-hole courses. Let’s encourage a resurgence of this form of the game.

www.sagolftrader.co.za

September | October 2021


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

Montagu Country Estate offers affordable & secure lifestyle living with a portion for retirement and holiday accommodation. Furthermore, our estate offers you Assisted Care plus a Dementia Unit. This development is located on the renowned Montagu golf course, in Montagu. There are two main buildings available for investors: An Assisted Care Centre that will host a Frail care, Dementia unit and an Assisted Living unit. A Lifestyle Centre that will host 40 share block bedsitters for holiday use plus recreation such as a heated pool, restaurant, coffee shop, reading corner, hairdresser, gym and much much more. This is a mixed -use opportunity, where the investor benefits from commercial as well as residential types.

The Lifestyle Holiday Centre offer a commercial center square that will house a library with a coffee shop, restaurant, hairdresser, dentist, physio therapist / occupational therapist, doctors and small convenience store. There will also be 40 self-catering share block bedsitter apartments. This building has a basement parking plus parking alongside the building. Total floor area is 4,916m2

Cell: 079 764 8593 (Valerie) Email: valerie.homes@outlook.com

September | October 2021

Cell: 083 559 3906 (Henry) Email: henry@hvnarchitects.co.za

www.sagolftrader.co.za

Tel: 023 614 3074 Alt Email: Wanda@hvnarchitects.co.za

3


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

MONTAGU COUNTRY ESTATE Holiday Apartments, Lifestyle, Retirement, Frailcare Share block, Sectional Title, Single Title. Montagu Country Estate offers affordable & secure lifestyle living with a portion for retirement and holiday accommodation. Furthermore, our estate offers you Assisted Care plus a Dementia Unit. This development is located on the renowned Montagu golf course, in Montagu. There are two main buildings available for investors: An Assisted Care Centre that will host a Frail care, Dementia unit and an Assisted Living unit. A Lifestyle Centre that will host 40 share block bedsitters for holiday use plus recreation such as a heated pool, restaurant, coffee shop, reading corner, hairdresser, gym and much much more. The development is situated on the golf course, Rem of Erf 4432 and is on the east side of Montagu with access from Bath Street. Montagu is a small town in the Little Karoo which exudes cosmopolitan living within small town familiarity, surrounded by historic buildings and a breathtaking natural environment. It has become home or retreat for many South Africans and international visitors alike. Named after John Montagu, it is located on the lower northern slopes of the Langeberg Mountains at the entrance to Cogmanskloof, between the Kingna and Keisie Rivers. The town has become a popular tourist destination and is a potential retirement haven. Situated on the famous Route 62, it is a leisurely 2 hour drive from Cape Town. The village offers a wildflower nature garden with stunning views and sunsets, bird sanctuaries, a nature reserve, the famous hot springs, museums, art galleries, historic buildings, lovely hiking trails, 4X4 and mountain bike trails, a scenic 9-hole golf course, squash and tennis courts, ideal rock climbing, bowling green and other sports facilities.

4

Wine lovers can toast the fact that there are more than 70 wine cellars in the valley which produce some of the finest wines in the country to go with locally produced olives and cheeses of the highest quality. Montagu is fortunate in having an exceptionally well-run municipality overseen by a competent mayoral committee which ensures good infrastructure, an excellent precinct and importantly an exceedingly low crime rate. An added is its weather with warm to hot summers, mild winters and long spring and autumn months, makes living in Montagu as good as it’s gets. Extract from Montagu Golf Club website: “The majestic Langeberg mountains provide a panoramic backdrop to the scenic Montagu Golf Course. Situated in the beautiful Montagu valley the Montagu Golf Club surprises all visitors with scenic vistas from all areas of the course.”

Overview of different types units and 2 large commercial buildings Hillside Cottage A: 36 units • Freehold, single storey • 173 m2 each. • Bedrooms = 3 • Bathrooms = 2 • Garage Hillside Cottage B: 14 units • Freehold, single storey • 134,7 m2 each • Bedrooms = 3 • Bathrooms = 2 Fairway Lodges: 42 units, shared boundary-walls • 180 m2 each • Bedrooms = 3 • Bathrooms = 3 Golf Lodges 1: 46 units

www.sagolftrader.co.za

September | October 2021


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

• Sectional title • Ground floor = 3 bedroom • First floor = 2 bedrooms

Dementia Centre: 90 units • Block A = 35 units • Block B = 35 units • Block C= 10 units • Block D = 10 units

Golf Lodges 2: 70 units • Sectional title • Ground floor = 2 bedrooms • First floor = 2 bedrooms

Assisted Care Lifestyle building. Investment opportunity.

Apartments: 56 units (14 per building) • Between 46 and 55 m2 . • Bedrooms = 1 • Bathroom = 1 Assisted Living Lifestyle Centre: 50 units • West =32 units • East = 18 units

September | October 2021

The Lifestyle Holiday Centre offers a commercial center square that will house a library with a coffee shop, restaurant, hairdresser, dentist, physio therapist / occupational therapist, doctors and small convenience store. There will also be 40 self-catering share block bedsitter apartments. This building has a basement parking plus parking alongside the building. Total floor area is 4,916m².

www.sagolftrader.co.za

5


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

The Montagu Country Hotel is the only Original Art Deco Hotel in South Africa where quirky Art Deco flair and lush green gardens meet warm country hospitality. An ideal stop over if you are playing the golf courses in the region or merely exploring Route 62. RESERVATIONS +27 (0)23 614 3125 082 771 4177 res@montagucountryhotel.co.za www.montagucountryhotel.co.za

27 Bath Street, Montagu, Western Cape. GPS: 33°47'12″S 20°7'17″E

6

www.sagolftrader.co.za

September | October 2021


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

The majestic Langeberg mountains provide a panoramic backdrop to the scenic Montagu Golf Course. Situated in the beautiful Montagu valley, the Montagu Golf Club surprises all visitors with scenic vistas from all areas of the course.

Being a vibrant golfing community, the members take pride in their club, and this is reflected by the comments of visiting players. Situated in Bath Street (on the way to the hot water springs) the course is a short distance from the town centre. Montagu Golf Club has grown since its inception in 1932 and members & guests now revel in the facilities available. - The friendliest bar in Montagu. - Spacious modern changing rooms (men and women). - A verandah with a panoramic view. - Conference facilities with all the necessary equipment (Big T.V Screen etc.) - Golf carts to hire - Full kitchen facilities - 2 x Braai areas - Small range of golfing requirements.

www.montagugolfclub.co.za September | October 2021

www.sagolftrader.co.za

 023 614 1860 7


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

Citrusdal Golf Club offers great specials to all new members and visitors. Situated only 170km from Cape Town.

SEATRADE CLASSIC 9 October 2021 This is our biggest tournament of the year and it is well-known for great prizes and excellent food. This is a social event enjoyed by everyone. CITRUS INVITATIONAL 30 October 2021 Everybody that is involved with the citrus industry gets an invita on to par cipate and a end this popular golf day. This event has become a great opportunity for businesses in the citrus industry to adver se their products and to socialize with the farmers, suppliers and other role players. ONS HUIS SE GHOLFDAG 13 November 2021. All visitors welcome.

In 1960 a group of 15 men from Citrusdal decided to build a golf course at the common ground known locally as the “Koeikamp.” The men toiled hard and succeeded to build a 4 hole-course, but after a number of years, the struggle and manpower to keep the 4 hole-course in shape, deteriorated and the course fell away. In 1975 another group got going at the “Koeikamp”

area again and they were successful to build 9 holes. In the early 1980s, the club's committee was granted the opportunity to buy the “Koeikamp” land and today, the club is the proud owners of the golf course property.

Contact Sakkie van der Westhuizen 0833840903 or email sakkie@kempena.co.za

INTERESTING QUESTIONS PERTAINING TO 9-HOLE SCORES

M

ust I enter a nine-hole score for Handicap Index® purposes?

Yes. Players are obliged to enter all nine-hole scores into the GolfRSA Handicap System except in the following situations: a) When the score cannot be ratified by a playing partner or competitor b) When the types or number of clubs were limited (as in a competition in which only iron clubs were allowed)

e) When the course played is not officially rated including when a course is set up much longer or shorter than the Average Playing Length when the rating of the course was determined f ) When the player used non-conforming clubs, balls or tees, or with respect to Rule 14-3 (Rules of Golf ) where an artificial device was used in the execution of stroke or when equipment was used in an unusual manner during the execution of a stroke.

c) When the round played included the use of “Mulligans”

The 9-hole calculation will automatically be completed by the system by first converting your nine-hole score into an 18-hole score (by taking your Adjusted Gross Score for the nine holes you played, adding par for that nine, plus your handicap strokes for that nine, plus 1 additional stroke) before converting it into a differential using the Course®- and Slope Ratings® of the nine you played. Can I receive an ‘Exceptional’ round for a nine-hole score?

d) When more than one ball was used at a time

8

How are nine-hole scores applied to the Handicap Index® calculation?

Yes, you can.

www.sagolftrader.co.za

September | October 2021


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

September | October 2021

www.sagolftrader.co.za

9


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E T H E

H O T E L & S PA

M i d - W e e k S ta y & P l a y For only R1,450.00 per person sharing a Luxury Suite or R2,000.00 per single room This rate includes one nights accommodation, breakfast, one round of golf (9 holes) and a half way house voucher at Dorothea’s Restaurant. An additional night can be booked at only R1,600.00 per night (Bed & Breakfast).

Terms & Conditions: Special is only bookable midweek, Sunday – Thursday, Not available on Public Holidays, weekends & school holidays, Golf must be pre-booked directly with the golf course, Golf cart not included in the rate, Limited rooms available on this special, Valid until 30 November 2022

Reservations +27 22 742 1065 | info@shelleypointhotel.com w w w. s h e l l e y p o i n t h o t e l . c o m

10

www.sagolftrader.co.za

September | October 2021


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

In the heart of the bushveld - Driving range - Pub - Small proshop

- Entertainment facilities - Golf carts as well as caddies available

Thabazimbi Golf Club is situated 8 km South of Thabazimbi on the R510 Rustenburg road and lies between the mountains of the Ben Alberts nature reserve. The course was originally designed by Bob Grimsdell and after the floods, and changed by Peter Matkovich and Dale Hayes, and opened in 1964. The course is typical bushveld with beautiful trees with a parklands layout. The fairways are Kikyu grass with beautiful Bent grass greens. The course is one of the top six courses in the Limpopo province and one of the few courses that is green all year around due to the water supply.

Contact details: Golf club: 076 055 1749 Office: 079 138 0665 E-Mail: thabagholf@gmail.com

NINE-HOLE GOLF IS FAIRLY QUICK AND LOADS OF FUN, HERE ARE FIVE REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD ALWAYS MAKE TIME FOR NINE.

Thabazimbi lies betwe Glen Stry bushveld beautiful Be and o

1. Getting outdoors Being out and about in nature provides health benefits for our mind and body. Soaking up a few hours of sunlight (always remember your sunscreen) will help increase your Vitamin D levels. 2. It’s a great workout Playing a 9-hole round of golf (while carrying your bag) burns at least 450 calories, as you walk between two and four kilometres with a few kilograms strapped to your back. 3. You get together and make new friends Golf is a very social sport and a great way to connect with friends or meet new people –

September | October 2021

The course was original especially if you’ve recently moved into adesigned new by Bob G area.

4. It alleviates stress Playing a round of golf helps to release endorphins – those natural, mood-enhancing chemicals within our brains that make us happier and more relaxed. 5. You will get a better night’s sleep The exercise that you get during a round, from walking to swinging your club helps to tire your body out. You will fall asleep faster and sleep more profoundly due to the amount of energy expended.

www.sagolftrader.co.za

11


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

HARBEESPOORT-NORTH WEST | WEEKDAY SPECIAL R640.00 FOR A 2 BALL INCLUDING GOLF CART SHARING Price excludes competition related fees. Please quote code: Sandy 1 when making a booking to qualify for the special.

PLEASE ADHERE TO ALL COVID RELATED PROTOCOLS SET OUT BY THE CLUB

leisure@caribbeanbeach.co.za / 012 244 3000

MOOINOOI THE ONLY 9-HOLER TO HOST A SUNSHINE TOUR EVENT

M

ooinooi Golf Club is one of the finest ninehole facilities in the country and the only 9-hole golf course to have hosted a Sunshine Tour event (the Platinum Classic, for 18 consecutive years, 1996 to 2013). The course opened in 1974 and was originally known as the Westplats Golf Club. The 9-hole course layout was done by a Mr Magielse, who was in charge of the Turf Grass Research Station of the Witwatersrand University near Alexandria,

12

Johannesburg, in collaboration with John Pitchers. Pitchers was in his early sixties and ran the Rock Drill Workshop at Western Platinum Mine and being a keen golfer was asked to build the course by the General Manager, Andrew Saffy. The course was open to mine employees only with visitors being permitted to play by invitation of the General Manager. This rule was later rescinded with membership being open to all.

www.sagolftrader.co.za

Pitchers was a remarkable old man. His right leg was amputated just above his knee when he was in his early twenties after the jacks of a motor vehicle he was working under collapsed with the vehicle falling on him and crushing his leg. He had a false leg for forty odd years and still played off a 16 handicap. Quite an achievement, considering there were no golf carts available in those years.

continued on page 41..

September | October 2021


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

An Unforgettable Golfing Getaway Set within the scenic bushveld of the majestic Rooiberg mountains, Babirwa Golf and Bush Lodge combines luxury accommodation and five-star hospitality with unsurpassed scenery.

Our private 18-hole golf course is PGA-rated at 72 for a world-class golfing experience in the bushveld. After a round of golf, enjoy a hearty meal at our Clubhouse overlooking the striking mountain range or stay over in our luxurious private Villas.

Contact us for your bespoke bushveld escape. Babirwa Golf and Bush Lodge l +27 010 900 3009 l info@babirwalodge.co.za l www.babirwalodge.co.za

September | October 2021

www.sagolftrader.co.za

13


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

14

www.sagolftrader.co.za

September | October 2021


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

A unique golfing experience surrounded by nature and wildlife.

A challenge for any level of golfer.

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

Tel: 082 888 0188 ~ Email manager@komatigolf.co.za ~ Website: www.komatigolf.co.za continued from page 38...

(There is a sketch of him in the bar area of the clubhouse). Western Platinum Mine, with the escalation of platinum prices, started expanding with Eastern Platinum Mine opening and Karee Mine being purchased from Impala Platinum. Management decided to change the name of the club, as it was no longer representative of the Lonrho Mines, to Mooinooi Golf Club in 1988. (Most of the Lonrho employees resided in Mooinooi). The original greens were planted with cynodon grass (schaap-plaas) and in 2001 Mine Management wanted to expand the course to 18-holes, but were unsuccessful in negotiating the purchase of land adjacent to the course and then decided to rebuild the greens and to plant them with bent grass. Rebuilding started in April 2001 and the new greens were opened

September | October 2021

for play a few weeks before the start of the Platinum Classic on 6th November 2001.

www.sagolftrader.co.za

15


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

Tel: (013) 790 0283 Email: admin@malgc.co.za Club Manager Wihann Viljoen 062 637 8147

Monday and Thursday Special: 2 Ball – 18 holes and a Cart @ R450 Weekday 9 Hole Special Monday – Friday: Tee off after 15:00 for only R60

GOLF IS A MUST WHEN VISITING THE KRUGER

T

he golf course was built in 1972 as a recreational facility for the Skukuza personnel, and is now available to visitors to the Kruger National Park.

spectators are a common sight, hippo, impala, warthog and baboons to mention but a few.

The Skukuza Golf Course is situated on the outskirts of Skukuza Rest Camp. The rich wildlife sanctuary surrounding the golf course is home to the Big Five, a huge variety of birds and countless animals, which all conspire to provide the visitor with a harmonious close-to nature golfing experience.

The Skukuza Golf Course has no bunkers, although ‘aerial bunkers’ abound because of the many trees found on the course. Tee-off times are available for visitors on a first come first serve basis, so book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Since the course is not fenced-in, uninvited

The Skukuza Golf Course is designed for all levels of

16

www.sagolftrader.co.za

golfers. Take along your golf clubs next time you visit the Kruger National Park and enjoy one of the most unique 9-hole golf courses in the world.

September | October 2021


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

Skukuza Golf Club

Kruger National Park

The epitome of golf amongst game.

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

Email:info@skukuzagolf.co.za Tel: +27-13-735-5543 September | October 2021

www.sagolftrader.co.za

www.skukuzagolf.co.za 17


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

Drakenzicht lodge Own a piece of paradise self catering accommodation 9-hole golf course

9-hole Golf Course & Lodge For Sale Now on the market and open to investors or syndicates that can further expand this property or maintain it in its current state as an income generating resort. - 2½ hour drive from Pretoria and O.R. Tambo International Airport making it the perfect stop over on route to the Kruger National Park, Mozambique and Swaziland - 9 hole golf course, an ideal golf destination or weekend breakaway for the whole family - Swimming, golf, birding, mountain biking, fishing in small dams, walking trails - Conference facilities for smaller groups and functions. - 3x three bedroom Family Chalets - 3x Luxury Double Chalets - Clubhouse with managers residence - Golf Carts and equipment - Store room and staff quarters Tourism zoning completed and a further expansion of 20 additional units has been approved. 2 strong boreholes, Eskom power.

250 hectares of pristine mountain grasslands this Mpumalanga Lodge enjoys uninterrupted views of the Schoemanskloof valley with its spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Conveniently situated just 7km off the N4 road to Nelspruit. Secondary access road takes you to the hidden away mountain road with wildlife roaming freely. Current ownership is in a Closed Corporation with 2 share shareholders, property is sold as a going concern. For detailed information and financials get in contact with the owner: Thys van den Hoven 079 893 3505 golf@drakenzicht.co.za. Reason for selling emigration. Property is in the market at fair market value, any reasonable offers welcome.

Contact: 082 7156029 to make your booking Halfway between Middelburg and Groblersdal, travelling on the N11, you will find Kranspoort Golf Course. A jewel of a course in a bushveld environment with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Loskop dam lower down the valley. The world-renowned designers Matkovich & Hayes developed this 9-hole course which is maintained in an immaculate condition. Ostriches, zebras, and various other game roam our fairways and in the adjacent bush. It is not uncommon to see a hippo in the pool next to the long par five fairway. Over 220 bird species have been identified in the area. The Golf course forms part of Kranspoort Eco Estate, also known as Kranspoort Vakansiedorp. Around the course there are 60 plots still selling. The rest of the 450 plots on the estate is about 4 kilometres from the course. Of these about 300 have been developed. Membership is not limited to property owners. Many of our golfers are farmers or from neighbouring towns who enjoy the tranquillity bushveld feeling of our course. This is not only a game of golf but a walk in the bush. Truly one of the best kept secrets. Kranspoort invite all golfers and their families to visit us.

al

ci e p S 18

TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS

2 players (18 holes) plus 1 golf cart @ R400

www.sagolftrader.co.za

Valid 1 September - 30 November 2021

September | October 2021


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

The Golf Club

Bankenveld is a family orientated golf club situated in eMalahleni, Mpumalanga. The course offers a unique links-style challenge along the banks of Witbank Dam. Elevated tees show off with some wonderful views while the large undulating greens test the skill of any level golfer. The club features good quality practice facilities including a full-length driving range and a large chipping and putting green. Two qualified PGA Golf Instructors stand ready and able to cater for anything that will help you improve your game. Just a short one-hour drive from Gauteng, this 9-hole gem will be one to remember.

Contact: - 082 326 9999, Email: golf@bankenveld.co.za

Find us on

Marble Hall Golf Estate Peace and Tranquillity

Come and enjoy this peace of heaven

"Come and enjoy this beautiful and challenging course!" The estate is situated in the heart of the bushveld, 130km from Pretoria and just 30km from Groblersdal. The whole area is surrounded with agricultural ac vi es and the area is especially known for it's citrus, table grapes and co on produc on.

September | October 2021

www.sagolftrader.co.za

Contact: Tel: 082 772 9914 Email: info@marblehallgolf.co.za

19


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

Come & Own Your Piece of Paradise

20

Piet & Cathy Nel Cell: 082 555 2661 ~ par4@futuregtn.co.za ~ www.stcathryns.co.za

www.sagolftrader.co.za

September | October 2021


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

The magnificent Bosch Hoek, situated in the heart of the KZN Midlands, is a premier golfing des na on.

Offering the first 9-hole course to be included in South Africa's Top 100 Courses and luxury appointed Lodge, Bosch Hoek is a sparkling jewel in the golfing crown of South Africa and most certainly worth bumping to the top of your golfing bucket list! “The quality of the experience at Bosch Hoek for visitors is outstanding, and staying at [Bosch Hoek] Lodge during my visit in November was a highlight of my two-month Road Trip around the country. Not only was it luxurious, but my evening meal matched any top restaurant.” – Stuart McLean

golf@boschhoek.co.za September | October 2021

033 234 4232 www.sagolftrader.co.za

www.boschhoek.co.za 21


S P E C I A L F E AT U R E - T H E R E ’S A LWAYS T I M E F O R N I N E

* Water Slide & Rock Pool * Bike Track * Fishing

* Amphitheatre Golf Course * The Putt & Pint Pub & Grill * Emthonjeni Spa

Inspired by the surrounding landscape, our 9-hole and 18-tee

course was designed to make your golf game enjoyable. Clear cut fairways and well manicured greens are surrounded by an array of birdlife with the Tugela River alongside.

036-4386308 22

info@hlalanathi.co.za www.sagolftrader.co.za

Click here to

Book on line

September | October 2021


JOHN COLLIER 2021

John Collier Survey NINE-HOLE GOLF CLUBS ARE THE BACKBONE OF SOUTH AFRICAN GOLF

I

f one reads any golf publication or even the general news media, these publications usually carry articles about top eighteen-hole golf courses hosting regular professional tour events. The exposure is there, continually, week in and week out, showcasing carefully manicured greens and fairways and beautiful views of blue lakes and green vegetation. In South Africa, taking into consideration our climatic conditions and the actual number of golfers playing the game, in reality the Augusta syndrome is beyond the reach of many golf clubs. From a media perspective it is important to maintain the narrative but in reality, more than 60% of golf courses in South Africa are nine-hole courses. Notwithstanding the hype, it is suggested that this is where the enthusiasm for the game starts and the place to grow the game. There are many advantages in playing a 9-hole course. For example, it saves time in that the average pace of play for nine holes is just under two and a half hours. It saves money in that many

September | October 2021

nine-hole rates are typically 50 percent or more discounted from the full round rate. It is easier on your body as playing nine holes allows you to get great exercise without overdoing it. It is a great way to start because it is not necessarily as taxing mentally and physically for those who are still trying to master the basics. Most importantly your scores still count so you can still submit your nine-hole scores if you are keeping a handicap. Furthermore, in terms of research carried out through the John Collier Survey many of the so-called big clubs could learn a great deal from these nine-hole courses in respect of environmental compliance and good governance. Good examples of these clubs include Hankey Golf Club in the Eastern Cape, Jagersfontein Golf Club in the Free State, Utrecht Country Club in Kwa Zulu Natal, Mooi Nooi Golf Club in the North West, Springbok in the Northern Cape and Chrome Golf Club in Mpumalanga.

www.sagolftrader.co.za

47 23 49


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.