By P Utter
THIS week, Umkomaas Golf Club (UGC) congratulates Saga Reddy, who flew up to Sun City and the Lost City, to play in the Sanlam Cancer Challenge final last month.
Saga played extremely well against some of the best players in South Africa, taking second place overall.
The excitement was really high since this was the first time Saga had flown anywhere, with adrenaline pumping furiously all the way. Well done, Saga, you have put this little golf club in Umkomaas at centre stage in this prestigious annual tournament – everyone is immensely proud of your achievement.
Unfortunately the Wednesday competition was cancelled due to the enormous amount of rain that literally ‘fell out of the sky’ the day before.
Although the monthly medal and mug competition was played a week late this month, it was still reasonably well supported by members. The wind in the afternoon didn’t help one bit but the players soldiered on, most finishing their rounds with only a couple of ‘no returns’ on their score cards. The A division winner was that man, Saga Reddy on a score of 70 nett followed very closely by Patrick Ndlovu on a 71 nett.
Dave Mulroy played an outstanding game, taking first place in the B division with a score of 67 nett, with Jimmy Spear the runner-up, four shots off the pace with a 71 nett. The C division was a surprise as well, with Simon van den Bosch winning with a 68 nett with Bing Opie as runner-up with a 76 nett. The women also played their medal round and it was Sabiha Bacaus on a 75 nett taking the Sutcliffe Glass from second placed Lesa Vergottini, who finished with a 77 nett. Well done to all the winners.
The jackpot and the hidden birdie (third hole) will be carried over – there were no two-clubs either, frustrating for the players but better luck next weekend. Sabiha Bacaus took home the attendance draw, nothing too strenuous about winning this prize. The golfer of the month for October is Dave Mulroy on his magnificent 67 nett.
Last Sunday was the Sunday bash which was well attended, considering the wind in the afternoon. Well done to the guys for sticking it out. Newly elected club captain, Peter Toward welcomed the players after the game. Chairman Devlyn Fraser played in the competition but the winner was Maxwell on 42 points, with Lindani counting out Devlyn for second and third spots respectively, both with 37 points. Taking fourth place was Patrick with 36 points. The next bash will be on Sunday, 5 November due to inter club being played on the weekend of 28 and 29 October.
Next Saturday, 21 October, the competition will be a fourball betterball with social golf on Sunday, 22 October. Anyone wishing to play golf on Sunday. Call the club on 039-973-1042 and book your tee time.
Members are reminded that there are quite a few R10,000 draw booklets to be sold – this is a fundraising venture started a few years ago to generate funds for the club and has proved successful. The club needs these tickets sold before the end of November and this cannot be done without your help. The more booklets sold, the better for the club. Chat to Sonny.
Lastly, an invitation is extended to all members and friends of Ben van der Sandt at his ‘wake’ to celebrate his life, which will be held at Umkomaas Golf Club on Friday, 27 October at 11am.
All are welcome to attend.
Find UGC online at www.umkomaasgolf.co.za
