Darren Plumb, the CEO of Mbombela Golf Club (MGC), has swapped the Lowveld for Mauritius.

Plumb, who became a legend of the club in his 14-year tenure, first as general manager and then as CEO, flew to Mauritius on Sunday, May 25.
He has accepted the position of general manager at Mont Choisy Le Golf in Grand-Baie and commenced on June 1. Plumb’s wife, Angela and daughter, Paige will join him there at the end of the year.

He took Mbombela Golf Club to great heights during his time as CEO and was known for his professional conduct and friendly demeanour.

“The friendly and energetic nature of the team and people who worked with me at MGC, along with the people who supported it, made my job easy. It is really an amazing place to meet friendly new people, sit and catch up with old friends, and don’t forget the amazing view. MGC has an amazing bunch of people, which is in essence what makes a social club,” Plumb said.

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There were many special memories made over the years. “It is difficult to pinpoint just a handful as there were so many of them. The highlights must have been days of the Jock of the Bushveld Tournaments, and national PGA events where we got to host a number of golfers who enjoyed what the club had to offer. The opening of the tee project and new members bar are also up there.”

Plumb shared his thoughts on the best golfers who have played the course. “Thriston Lawrence, Jayden Schaper and Daniel van Tonder were the best on the pros’ side. With regards to the amateurs, there were a number of Golf RSA squad members for a Mpumalanga Open that impressed, however, none of them really got the better of the course.”

He himself had some interesting rounds on the course. “In a tough tussle with a friendly enemy, I happened to find myself deep in the trees from my drive on the 14th hole. After a mumble from him that I had no shot, I happened to fade one starting towards the 16th green, and banked sharply right. When it rolled up onto the green I looked at him and said: “That will do pig, that will do,” to his look of astonishment. There were a couple of skins on the line.”

Plumb will be sorely missed at MGC. He was always a man with a plan for tomorrow, being extremely appreciative of the strong support of sponsors and other role players who made many a golf day and competition a success.

Under Plumb, MGC was always about community involvement.

He was greatly appreciative of media coverage, be it a big competition or a fundraising golf day. This journalist was greeted with a “Hello Markie. Thanks for being here … again.”

Plumb’s legacy will live on at MGC for many years to come.