Dundee golfers pay tribute to a legend
Tributes pour in for gentleman golfer Aaron Mbatha
The annual Battlefields Golf Tournament was played over the Easter Weekend (Good Friday) at Dundee Country Club, where 25 players participated in an IPS format.
Robert Khumalo took first place honours with 40 points. Richard Marrier d’Unienville, a visitor from Royal Durban Country Club and playing off a handicap of six, came second on 39 points on a count-out from Billy Francis.
There was also plenty of golf under splendid autumn skies on Saturday, with 54 players taking to the magnificent course.
Winners of the day were former Dundonian Xolani Shezi (who was visiting for the weekend) and partner S Dlamini on 45 points.
Veterans Jo Khumalo and Gene Robson were second on 43 points, beating youngsters Ethan Jansen and Shameel Ayob on a count-out.
Club captain Joff Davies thanked the sponsors for supporting the traditional Easter Weekend of golf.
He also paid tribute to staff members Linda and her kitchen crew for the meals provided, as well as Jo Khumalo and the course staff for the fine condition of the course.
The golfing community was left in shock when veteran member Aaron Mbatha collapsed and passed away while playing golf on Saturday afternoon.
Aaron (72) was a member of many years and was known to be a gentleman on and off the course.”We send our condolences to the Mbatha family on the passing of Baba Aaron.
He was truly a gentleman and a legend of our club. Rest in peace, Baba, you will be missed,” said golf club captain, Joff Davies.
“Aaron was a kind and humble human being whom everyone loved.” Aaron started playing golf in Dundee while still a teenager and was later employed at the municipal testing station, where he worked for many years before retiring. A fund has been set up for the Mbatha family, and anyone wishing to donate can do so
by contacting the Pro Shop.
There are also plans to organise a day of golf to honour Aaron.
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