UGC’s wondrous women’s winning ways

IT never ceases to amaze that a relatively small club such as Umkomaas Golf Club (UGC) has a women’s section that, no matter what the competition is, the women will enter it.

A case in point is the Natalia foursomes – around eight to 10 women entered at club level.

Winners on the day were Annette Thorold and women captain, Bryony Rogers quietly going about their business and winning the first round. They then went on to play the next round at Scottburgh last month and won that too. Last Sunday they played in the same knock out competition at Selborne Golf Club against the formidable team of Brenda Morgan and Liz Donald from Toti, defeating them 5 and 4. The final round will be in August sometime against Scottburgh but the date and venue is yet to be finalised. Congratulations to both Annette and Bryony on their win – may the golfing gods be with you in the finals.

Congratulations to Michelle van der Merwe who played in the KZN senior champs last Monday at Royal Durban Golf Club, shooting an amazing 75 nett. Although Michelle was a runner-up in this tournament, the winner must have played some unbelievable golf. Another reason why UGC women are so awesome.

Well done, Michelle, in keeping the flag flying so high.

Wednesday was the individual stableford with a couple of notable visitors playing in the competition. Among the visitors were Southern Natal Nomads captain, Jimmy Reid, Underberg Club captain, Andre Cronje, Frans du Preez, Mike Espach and Jan Moran, who were all welcomed at prize giving. In the first two places were Strand Strikers, in 1st place was Roddy McGibbon on 41 with big Garth Wilyman in 2nd spot with 40. Wally Kent managed 3rd place with 38 followed by Jimmy Spear in 4th place, counting out Any Davidge, both with 37.

Saturday’s club fourball alliance was well supported and once again the club welcomed visitors Bob Duncan, Bertus van Jaarsveld and Selwyn and Annabelle Hesom. The winning team was Ken Harding (fresh from his Mediterranean cruise), Wally Kent and the Thorolds, Ronny and Annette on 92 with the Boshoffs, Peter and Sue together with Ken Koster and Bertus van Jaarsveld in 2nd spot on 89. The jackpot was won by Kuben Naidoo on 11 with the hidden birdie being carried over, yet again, which was found on the 9th hole. Unfortunately, Annette Thorold wasn’t around to collect the attendance draw, so it will roll-over to next week.

Diarise 25 July which is the bingo evening at the club. It is a wonderful way to meet new people and have fun as well. Contact Annette Gillett on 082-927-5013, mainly for catering purposes.

On 27 July is the Khanya Hospice golf day at UGC. Call the club on 039-973-1042 to book a time and help to support this worthy organisation. They need help to carry on their wonderful work and compassionate assistance to people who really need it in their time of need.

On 16 August, the club holds its annual fundraising golf day, the one time during the year that all members and hopefully their friends too, come together to support the club. The time sheet is in the office so call the club on 039-973-1042 to book your time early.

There is 6-pin on Friday afternoons. While it’s still a bit chilly to have the usual braai afterwards, as soon as the weather warms up, the braais are back.

The ‘Gerry Hatricks’ play on Tuesdays and Fridays. Be at the club at 7am for tee-off at 7.15am. All pensioners are invited to join in these days. Call Graham on 083-325-5705 or Keith on 083-305-5740.

Once the school term starts again, KidzGolf will be back as well. Any juniors who wish to know more about golf are more than welcome to come along to the Club on Saturday mornings between 8am to 9am and have a chat to head coach, Devlyn Fraser and his side-kick, Lindani Mthiyane. Mums and dads can enjoy breakfast while their youngsters are enjoying the outdoors. Contact the Club for more details.

The club’s website can be found at www.umkomaasgolf.co.za – we are but a click away!