At the start of July, Lezette Vermaak (55) was announced as Ekurhuleni Women’s Golf Union president after years of dedication to the sport.
“Golf is such a captivating game and if you are a non-golfer, you won’t understand the dynamics of it,” said Vermaak.
“There are so many forces at work while you are playing a game of golf. The challenge that a golf course offers you, as a player, is endless.”
Vermaak grew up on the greens of Kempton Park.
“I joined Kempton Park Country Club in 1995 and was appointed women’s captain in 1999 and 2000. I also won the club championship’s trophy in 2000.
“Kempton Park is a good, challenging golf course.”
She’s also been a committed member at Glendower Golf Club in Edenvale since 2000.
What does her presidency in Ekurhuleni Women’s Golf entail?
“I am expected to be committed to taking care of and advancing the development of women’s golf within Ekurhuleni Union and to be accountable to both my member clubs as well as to Women’s Golf South Africa.”
Before the honour of president, the Bonaero Park resident said she became women’s captain at Glendower in 2015 and formed part of the executive committee of Ekurhuleni Women’s Union.
“I was handed the Ladies League Portfolio. In 2017, I was elected vice-president and also added team manager of the Ekurhuleni team to my duties.”
She is not the only golf enthusiast in her family.
Vermaak is married to the cousin of South Africa’s international golfing star, Ernie Els.
“My husband, also Ernie, and Ernie Els are first cousins.”
However, her husband is her muse, as is his grandfather.
‘Oupa Ern’ taught her everything she knows about golf.
“I never went for any lessons. I played a lot of golf with Oupa Ern and he coached me for everything from etiquette to reading greens.
“Coming from a hockey background, I battled with my putting. He guided me to put left-handed and that solved the problem.”
Vermaak emphasised golfers must always be prepared for anything.
“Make or design your own shots for different situations on the green. Don’t be scared to take a chance. Be innovative and trust yourself.”
In terms of Ekurhuleni’s Golf Union and its endorsement of women, she said for a small union they are doing very well.
“Our women’s golf is both healthy and strong and duly recognised by the men’s union, as well as GolfRSA.
“We are always in need of women golfers. Due to Covid-19, many people had to cancel memberships.”
Now that the ban on non-contact sport has been lifted, Vermaak said they’re contemplating holding events.
“We are thinking to go ahead with our flagship event, the Ekurhuleni Open Championship, in October.”
