A tribute to legendary golfer Cassim Mayet
Cassim Mayet was one of the pioneer golfers on the South Coast.
THE Cassim Mayet Memorial Floating Trophy Tournament, hosted by the Port Shepstone Islamic School, had a full field at the scenic Wild Coast Sun Hotel and Casino Resort last Sunday.
Golfers from as far afield as Zambia, Zimbabwe, Johannesburg and Newcastle competed, as well as those from Durban and Port Shepstone. Notable professional golfers who were also on the greens included Jess Verster, Don and Muss Gammon and Altaaf Bux.
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At the prize-giving, Dr Ayoob Bux told the Herald that Cassim Mayet was one of the pioneer golfers on the South Coast, who championed the cause of non-racial golf.
“He represented and fought for non-white golf during the darkest days of the past and even beyond,” explained Dr Bux.
Mr Mayet was a member of the executive of the Natal Golf Union and was its representative on the South Coast for many years. “He coordinated and arranged numerous golfing activities on the South Coast and was instrumental in promoting the sport among all race groups,” Mr Bux pointed out.
Mr Mayet was one of the few non-white golfers who had a car at that time.
“He lived next door to me and I still remember, when I was very young, golfers came to his house early on Sunday mornings. They loaded their golf bags and travelled far and wide just to play golf, sometimes travelling as far as Kokstad and often to the Papwa Golf Course in Durban where non-whites were allowed to play.”
Mr Bux reminded golfers that in the past, non-white golfers were not allowed to play at the Port Shepstone and Margate golf clubs.
“Cassim and many of his fellow golfers used to caddie for 10 cents a round of 18 holes at these clubs. If the golfer played badly, they would not even get paid!
“After a long battle, non-white golfers were permitted to play at St Michael’s private golf course which is now a housing estate. Once the Wild Coast Sun Hotel and Casino Resort’s country club opened, Cassim Mayet and Peppy Govender were among the first to join as members.”
While Port Shepstone Islamic School is a private school, at least thirty percent of the pupils cannot afford to pay any fees at all. “The funds raised from this tournament will be used for these unfortunate pupils.”
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