Golfer makes history with double victory at Ekurhuleni tournament
A standout performance at Serengeti Golf Estate saw a local golfer secure both the Senior Open and Closed Strokeplay titles, marking a historic achievement for the region.
Benoni golfer Jeremy Wright etched his name into the Ekurhuleni Golf Union (EGU) history books after becoming the first player in the region to claim both the Ekurhuleni Senior Open and Closed Strokeplay titles at the regional tournament held at Serengeti Golf Estate recently.
Wright delivered a composed performance over two rounds, carding 71 and 74 for a one-over-par total of 145 to secure a memorable double.
His consistency proved decisive as he edged out Blaine Mancer and Gordon Wessels, who shared second place on three-over-par 147.
ALSO READ: Goudrif High School invites teams to charity golf day
Although his primary goal was a top-five finish, the golfer entered the competition aiming to fight for the title to stay in Ekurhuleni.
“My approach was a little different in that my home union, the EGU, hosted the tournament. To win at home is always sweeter. The Serengeti has very slopey greens, so my preparation entailed a lot of putting.
“My first goal was to beat the other Ekurhuleni players and win the closed event.
“A top-five result against the top 75 players in the country would have been fantastic, but to beat them all and win the Open tournament as well was just unbelievable,” he said.
Reflecting on his performance, Wright said he was chuffed with how it went despite a poor finish after both rounds, positively and holding a five-shot lead towards the end.
“I started both rounds really well, being three-under-par after four holes in both rounds. I knew then I had a good chance if I held it together.
“I looked at the live scoring after 30 holes and realised I had a five-shot lead with six holes to play. That was my only mistake of the day as I ended the round very poorly, but good enough to get the win.”
ALSO READ: Historic Germiston Golf Club closes amid controversy
Looking ahead, Wright has set his sights on sealing his spot in the regional team for next year’s interprovincials.
“The goal is to make the Ekurhuleni interprovincial side at the end of January for the fourth consecutive year. To represent the union at this prestigious tournament is always an honour.
“After my win, I’m lying fourth on the order of merit. The top eight will be selected at the end of January.
“Hopefully, I can keep it going. We have about four more tournaments to play. Maybe another win is on the cards,” said Wright.
