Golf club’s first mixed league ends on high note, more growth expected
First season sees increased female involvement, tight finishes, and plans for an expanded eight-round programme in 2026.
On November 15, the Nigel Golf Club wrapped up its inaugural mixed league with impressive participation, close competition and strong member enthusiasm, setting the stage for an expanded programme in 2026.
The league was introduced earlier this year after the club’s current committee committed to creating more events to boost member involvement.
The new format pairs one male and one female golfer per team, competing in an individual points stableford. Their scores are combined to determine the day’s outcome.
Anne Marie, the ladies’ captain and one of the season’s top performers, described the league as a major step forward for the club.
“The mixed league has brought fresh energy and a spirit of togetherness to the club. It was exciting to see new faces and everyone enjoying the challenge. The first season proved that we are growing not only as golfers, but as a community,” she said.
Marie added that the club also reported a notable increase in female participation this year, encouraging more women to enter alongside their male counterparts in 2026.
“To improve transparency and engagement, next season’s combined scores and scorecards will be displayed on the club’s scoreboard after each round. The mixed league format was widely welcomed by participants and will remain unchanged.
“The club has also invested in a new floating trophy, cementing the league as a long-term annual feature. Next year will see the competition expand to eight rounds, played monthly from March to October.
“Seven scores will count toward the final standings, with each team’s lowest round falling away. A new, light-hearted category, best-dressed team, will also be introduced. This league helped us connect, support one another and build confidence, especially among our lady golfers. I can’t wait to see how it grows in 2026.”
The final leaderboard reflected the tight competition throughout the season.
Sarel Marais and Anne-Marie took first place with 372 points. Pat Gale and Charlotte Wheeler followed closely with 370 points. Hannes Marais and Mellissa Marais secured third place with 364 points, while Paula Beckmann and Charles de Fortier won the best-dressed couple.
