The third annual Lowvelder Golf Challenge series teed off on a historic note this month. Just shy of 100 Lowveld golfers teed it up at Mbombela Golf Club on Wednesday, February 18, to make their first bid for glory in this year’s series in pursuit of the monumental grand prize.

It’s safe to say, the standard for 2026 has been set high. Participation in last year’s series showed positive year-on-year growth after the first edition in 2024; and this year looks destined to continue that upward trajectory.

Perfect weather put the day to a great start. With the course in great condition and the sun shining down on every player, participants displayed some top golf and made history in the process.

Teeing up on the par-3 17th hole, Etienne Lilford had no idea what lay in store. He struck it pure and straight and his four-ball teammates knew, perhaps a bit sooner than he did, that his ball was destined for the hole.

True to expectations, the ball dropped, giving Lilford the first hole-in-one in Lowvelder Golf Challenge history and the second of his own lifetime.

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Despite his historic hole-in-one, Lilford had to settle for 11th place on the day with 35 points. The first-round win belonged to Jaco Potgieter, who stormed his way to victory with 41 points.

Ross Tapson (39) was second and Marcus Myburgh rounded out the podium with 38 points. These three will be eager to build on their positive start come the second round of the series next month.

With a year’s membership at Mbombela Golf Club up for grabs, there is everything and more to play for over the next nine golf days. The second installment in the series will be played on March 11.

Players are responsible for booking their own rounds and carts by contacting the club on 013 744 0952. Eligibility for prizes requires attending the prize-giving ceremony. Participants must be affiliated with a club and hold an official handicap.