There are some incredible people in this country, of that there is no doubt. Yes, South Africa has its problems, there is also no denying that.
There is much division, made worse by easy access to social media and the ability to write, seemingly, whatever you want without any consequence. But despite all this, there are positives.
This past weekend I served as an official in a volunteer capacity at the annual KwaZulu-Natal Interclub golf tournament held at Margate, San Lameer and Port Shepstone country clubs.
Most of my time was spent working as a starter on the tee box over the three days. This give me the unique opportunity to observe the golfers as they came and went.
Some 300-plus golfers had come from all parts of the province to play. It was a timely boost for our local tourism establishments. They also formed the three main demographic groups in KZN.
What was noticeable was how the game of golf brought an element of unity.
Regardless of race, age, station or social standing, there was banter galore and much mirth. It was heart-warming to see the camaraderie. There were handshakes, fist bumps and elbow nudges.
The jokes flew and the laughter was genuine. Old friendships were renewed, others formed for the first time. They laughed at each other, they laughed at themselves.
There is something about the sport that creates bonds that can last for a lifetime. If it wasn’t for the game, these people from all walks of life would never have met.
I’d argue that golf is possibly the most ‘transformed’ sport in many ways – if not necessarily by design, then by happy accident.
It may be regarded as elitist or colonialist but the reality of what I observed is that men from across the spectrum of life were involved in playing a game they all love – and in some instances love to hate!
Afterwards I saw golfers of all race groups sitting together enjoying ice cold beverages and each other’s company.
At a time when most contact sports are not an option, now is a great time to take up the sport. Just about anyone can play. For me, it was a microcosm of what is possible in this beautiful land of ours.
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