A fundraising event will be held at Walker Park Golf Club on February 21 for greenkeeper Chris Janse van Rensburg (50), also known as Blits.

Janse van Rensburg is well-known in the golfing community and, with his team’s assistance, is responsible for the upkeep of the lush Walker Park greens.

His career as a greenskeeper began in 2007 with Greenturf, contracted to maintain the greens at the Graceland Hotel, Casino, and Country Club and Walker Park Golf Club.

The contract ended in 2012, and Walker Park Golf Club hired Janse van Rensburg, bringing all his knowledge and experience on board as their permanent greenskeeper.

Born and raised in Evander, Janse van Rensburg began experiencing weakness and poor sight in his left eye at the beginning of 2024.

His vision began to deteriorate further around May 2025. He went to see a local optometrist, thinking he may need glasses.

“I was told I couldn’t get glasses because I have cataracts. I went for a second opinion, and the same was said that it is cataract-forming,” said Janse van Rensburg.

Janse van Rensburg explained it is not the norm for cataracts due to ageing, but is caused by long-term, unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays and wind, and not protecting the eyes from these elements.

Being a greenkeeper, ardent golfer, and fisherman, most of his days, both working and leisure, consist of being outside. By mid 2025, he could not see out of his left eye. He made an appointment with Bethal Hospital as he did not have medical aid.

He was placed on a waiting list. In October, his right eye began developing the same symptoms. He could not drive his vehicle, had to feel his way around, and had trouble eating because he could not see.

“I got worried that I was going blind. I could not drive, eat, play golf, or fish,” said Janse van Rensburg.

Due to the emergency, the club president, Arno Spangenberg, secured an appointment with Dr Sachin Bawa from iSurgeon in Edenvale on October 31.

With financial aid from an anonymous club member, Janse van Rensburg underwent lens implant surgery on November 13. The cataracts could not be removed with laser treatment.

“I must look after my eyes now. I must permanently wear prescription glasses that adjust to light. My vision now is 100 percent; it is amazing,” said Janse van Rensburg.

The cost of the surgery was R56 000, and the fundraiser golf day is to raise money towards this amount. Players can book their spots now. Entrance is R350 per person. Corporate sponsors cost R3 500. The format is betterball sixes.

Holes 1 to 6 are full scramble, 7 to 12 are IPS, and 13 to 18 are beterball. Janse van Rensburg thanked club manager MJ Russell, Spangenberg, the committee, and club members for all the help and support.