North Coast golfers swing back into action

North Coast golf courses have wasted no time getting back in swing, following reopening on June 13.

Simbithi marketer Sue Clarke started the day with a bang when, as the first person to tee off on the first hole, she scored a hole-in-one.

“‘When I heard that we were allowed to play, I jumped at the chance armed with my mask and sanitiser,” said Sue, adding that she and her golfing partners Diana and Rene du Toit first made off to the putting green for a quick refresher.

“After sinking two fairly long distance putts with my first two shots, country club manager, Warren Abery told me to pick that ball up and save it for my round rather. We headed to the 1st Tee, and I must admit I was a little terrified hitting my first ball after a few months of lockdown. Would I remember how?” asked Sue, as she reached for her nine-iron.

Needless to say, Sue had not forgotten how to play, although she puts it down to luck. She swung and hit the golf ball dead-centre.

“It’s the perfect shot, it’s going in the hole, it’s in the hole,” shouted golfing partner Rene, to applause from other golfers. Some residents claimed they heard Sue’s screams from the 9th tee. The distance of the shot measured 89 metres.

“It did feel a bit strange not celebrating in the pub after the round, and hearing the bell ring, but no doubt I will be caught for a round of drinks when lockdown is over!”

Other clubs on the North Coast have been just as excited to reopen.

Umhlali Country Club assistant sports manager John Catt said they had been doing very well since golf returned, despite only being open to members and club-affiliated guests.

“We have been busy and have received an overwhelming response,” he said, adding that last week was almost fully booked.

Caddies have been allowed to return under strict regulations.

“We are positive about everything at the moment and have put in place a number of safety protocols.”

Prince’s Grant commercial manager, Elbert du Plessis said they had gone with a phased approach to opening, initially only allowing members.

“The weather recently has been great for golf,” he said.

“Lockdown has delayed the reopening of our back nine and we are looking at a full reopening of all 18 holes towards the end of August.”

But not having access to the full course has not stopped the phones from ringing. According to Elbert, bookings have been flooding in.

They are not charging golfers for a second cart to help golfers keep the required physical distance.

“I believe local golf is going to boom for the remainder of the year. Families get to enjoy the course with their children, especially with no school sports over the weekend,” said Du Plessis.

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