Thembisa Golf Club hosts annual tournament
The Tembisa Golf Club hosted its first event for the year, with hopes to go bigger.
The Thembisa Golf Club (TGC), one of the largest township golf clubs in Ekurhuleni, hosted its third annual Thembisa Express Cup (Tebex) Championship Tournament on January 25 at the Blue Valley Golf Estate in Midrand.
Inspired by the FedEx Cup, the tournament follows a season-long points system, with top players qualifying for the final showdown.
Three years ago, the TGC became the first social golf club to introduce a competition mirroring the FedEx Cup format.
ALSO READ: Fundraisers held through playing golf
While the FedEx Cup features the top 30 players in the Tour Championship, the TGC initially started with 12 qualifiers, with plans to expand the field in the future.
The 2024 Tebex Champion was crowned at a black-tie dinner on January 26 at the Kempton Park Golf Club.
The tournament saw fierce competition, with Thabo Phetoane securing the top spot after a dominant season.
Ayanda Jako finished second, followed by Mike Mohale in third, Samuel Boshielo in fourth and Leagilwe Magasa in fifth.
The performances showcased the talent within the TGC community, making for a thrilling start to this season.
Nokuthula Thomas, the deputy secretary of the TGC, described the atmosphere as electrifying.
ALSO READ: Local golfer claims dramatic win in tournament
“The energy at the first tournament of the year was incredible. The 2024 prize awards were held after the opening Tebex game, bringing together players, fans and volunteers in a spirit of excitement and camaraderie.
“The enthusiasm for the new season was contagious, and it’s clear that everyone is eager to make 2025 a year to remember.”
However, she also highlighted some of the club’s challenges, particularly securing funding to upgrade the Ebuhleni Golf Course to the high standards of venues like the Soweto Country Club.
“One of our biggest hurdles is raising funds to develop the Ebuhleni Golf Course. Every tournament we host plays a crucial role in supporting this vision, and we are deeply grateful to our participants, sponsors and the community for their ongoing support.”
ALSO READ: Golfer claims breakthrough win at tournament
Looking forward, the TGC has an action-packed calendar for 2025, featuring major tournaments such as The American Scramble, The Chairman’s Cup, the Club Champion Tournament and the Lamb Competition.
A key focus for the year will be the growth and development of young talent through the TGC Development Programme.
The club remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of golfers, providing them with resources and opportunities to succeed.
“Despite the challenges, we remain committed to growing the game of golf, nurturing young talent, and creating opportunities for everyone involved in the TGC.
“With the support of our incredible community, we are confident 2025 will be a landmark year for the club,” Thomas said.
