Close, but no cigar for KZN golfers
This is usually the time of year when Sole announces that this is his final year, he's retiring.
It wasn’t the result captain Gavin Sole or manager Ivan Curlewis had hoped for at the recent South African IPT held at scenic San Lameer Country Club last week.
But both remained upbeat and positive, despite KZN failing to win the B section and gain promotion back to the top flight.
Eastern Province won the B section, while Western Province won the A section.
“We won four of our five games quite comfortably but unfortunately got outplayed by Eastern Province. They mixed up their order and it came off. Risky move, as their number one played Gavin at number five and only won on the last hole,” said Curlewis.
“Overall I felt the team gave it their all and produced some excellent golf. Our rookies gained some great experience and our veterans, like Gavin and Tom Lovett, showed that the desire to win is still very much there.”
This is usually the time of year when Sole announces that this is his final year, he’s retiring.
“Yes, I’ve heard that story before a few times,” laughed Curlewis.
On a more serious note, Sole was a little disappointed with his own efforts, where he won four out of five foursomes with Lovett and won one singles, halved two and lost two.
“The windy, wet weather neutralised home advantage a bit. I wasn’t able to play as much golf coming into the tournament and my fitness perhaps wasn’t quite what it usually is. Felt like I gave away holes which I normally wouldn’t, no excuses though.”
Looking ahead, Sole said he was in two minds about whether or not he would be available for selection next year.
“I’m not sure, I really enjoyed playing with Tom in the foursomes, especially around this made for matchplay layout. He had a great tournament. Then again, I have always maintained that if there is someone better than me, I will step down.”
The team comprised Jono Broomhead (Durban CC), Jason Gilliver (Umdoni Park), Chris Erasmus (Prince’s Grant), Daniel Bennett (Beachwood), Gavin Sole (Southbroom), Tom Lovett (Prince’s Grant), Nathan Trodd (Maritzburg GC), Thabiso Magwaza (Umhlali) and manager Ivan Curlewis (Margate CC).
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