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| Another Honourable Gentlemen of Stellenbosch GC Foursomes has come and gone, marking a glorious decade of gentlemen attempting to hit a small white ball into an even smaller hole, all while maintaining an air of impeccable sportsmanship (mostly). Monday’s tenth annual edition was, as always, a truly magnificent affair, proving that even after ten years, we still haven’t quite figured out how to make this game not a nail-biter.
The morning golf saw the teams trading blows like seasoned pugilists, ending with the scores perfectly poised – a testament to either incredible parity or a collective agreement to keep things interesting. The afternoon matches then commenced, no doubt with a few more tactical grimaces and perhaps a whisper or two of “friendly” advice exchanged between partners. When the dust, or rather, the divots, settled, it was the President’s team who emerged victorious, proving once again that leadership (or at least a good swing) prevails.
But beyond the valiant efforts to avoid bunkers and find fairways, the true spirit of the day shone brighter than a perfectly polished trophy. This event, now a venerable institution, continues to embody everything golf should be: a game of integrity (even when counting those questionable drops), camaraderie (especially after a particularly bad slice), and the forging of new friendships (or at least tolerating your playing partner for four hours).
A colossal thank you must go to Jean Engelbrecht, whose unwavering support has become as much a part of this event as the inevitable search for lost balls. We are all incredibly grateful. And for those who participated, I’m sure you’ll agree: the wait for next year’s Honourable Gentlemen of Stellenbosch GC Foursomes has already begun… |
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| The Honourable Gentlemen of Stellenbosch GC getting ready for lunch |
| The smile says it all on Peter’s face as he receives the trophy from Gavin |
| Just how big is it to win the U.S. Open? Well, someone did ask me this question on Monday and my answer was big – very big! To claim victory in one of golf’s four major championships is a career-defining moment that catapults a player into a different echelon of the sport.
For JJ Spaun, his recent triumph at Oakmont is a testament to resilience and skill. Winning a major provides not only significant financial rewards, but also invaluable exemptions into future major championships and other prestigious tournaments, securing a player’s status and opportunities for years to come. Beyond the tangible benefits, there’s also the immense prestige and recognition that comes with being a U.S. Open champion – a title that forever links a player’s name to golf history.
The United States Golf Association (USGA) often aims for the U.S. Open to be a stern test, with a winning score around level par. Oakmont, known for its challenging layout and fast greens, certainly lived up to this reputation, proving to be a formidable challenge for the world’s best professionals. Spaun’s winning score of 1 under par indicates that the USGA’s goal for a demanding championship was achieved, highlighting the difficulty of the course and the caliber of play required to succeed.
Oakmont tested the professionals both on and off the course. The mental fortitude required to navigate its hazards and the precision needed for its greens are immense. Winning here signifies a player’s ability to perform under extreme pressure and adapt to one of golf’s most historic and difficult venues.
JJ Spaun’s victory at Oakmont is a powerful example of what it means to conquer a major. It’s a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a never-give-up attitude. His name is now etched in the history books alongside other greats who have hoisted the coveted U.S. Open trophy.
Lodewyk Loubser was our lucky member who drew JJ Spaun as his player for the U.S. Open. Next up is The Open being played at the beautiful but tough Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland from 17 to 20 July. |
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| Our journey to the 115th Investec SA Open |
| 35 weeks to go as we continue to get ready to host the second oldest Open Championship in the world. The construction is now well underway and we have been rather fortunate with the weather so far. The putting green will be seeded by the end of next week. The construction of the retaining wall has started at the enlarged 18th dam with the excavation complete. The bunker team have completed 15 of our 44 bunkers on the course. Most of the bulk earthworks for the tees has been done and we hope to have the sodding done by middle September. You would also have noticed some beautiful trees being planted on the golf course. Exciting times indeed! |
| What’s happing in the next couple of weeks… |
| Stellenbosch GC’s 121st birthday will be happening on 26 July 2025, and bookings for this very special event will be opening soon. We are looking forward to living up to the same celebration as in 2024.
The Winter Medal Mug (Decanter) is scheduled for 2 August and for those who missed the prizegiving last night, we have returned to a par 4 finishing hole to a temporary green. The course has been updated on the HNA system – please check in the pro shop or at the starters for handicap conversions when enjoying your next round.
Stay warm and Keep it down the middle,
Louis |
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