Excellent performances at SAGDB national tournament

The top players in the SA Golf Development Board’s (SAGDB) national programme were joined by the cream of recent graduates to compete in the board’s first national tournament this week. The event, sponsored by Old Mutual, was held at Zwartkop Country Club.

The tournament was not only an opportunity for the SAGDB’s best players to compete against their peers from around the country, but also served as a trial for the Old Mutual International Pairs (OMIP). The top three pairs at the event were selected to compete in their respective regional OMIP competitions.

The SAGDB was thrilled at the quality of play on display at Zwartkop and believes the levels of progress show the excellent work being done by its coaches.

“The talent that was displayed at this tournament has improved unbelievably,” said the SAGDB’s managing executive Ken Viljoen. “If it carries on like this, we’re going to see some bright stars in the future.”

Cedric Rooi and Danwill Appolis from Worcester won the tournament on 45 Stableford points. They will compete in the OMIP Western Cape regional finals at Rondebosch later this month.

Two pairs from Daveton in Eastern Gauteng tied on 43 points to finish second and third. Thabang Mokoena and Nkosinathi Dauwa were awarded second place on a count out, with Mbhekeni Nkosi and Thabo Molokosa placed third. These two pairs will play for a place in the OMIP national finals at the Gauteng regional event in August.

THE SAGDB’s national product sponsors, SAA and City Lodge, also made a huge contribution to the success of the event. SAA flew in the young golfers from around the country, while City Lodge provided accommodation for players and SAGDB officials.

“The players were unbelievably well behaved and everyone commended them,” Viljoen said. “While there was disappointment on the course, I did not see one youngster at any stage show any sign of anger.”

Viljoen complimented the SAGDB’s coaches on the role they have played in growing this culture of etiquette.

“I believe our coaches are really starting to do a good job,” he said. “The training we’ve been doing over the last few years and the PGA mentorship programme are really starting to show results.”

Viljoen was also very pleased to see the youngsters smartly dressed in their SAGDB blazers when they travelled. He said that it showed that they are really proud to be part of the development board.

Cedric Rooi