The 2019 Men’s Invitational had a record 96 members and guests playing in a two man team event. The tournament keeps on getting better and it is growing in numbers. The inaugural event started with 32 players, including Ladies. As more homes get build on the Links so our numbers increase, with many teams making this their annual weekend away, never missing an event. This event is not only about golf, this weekend gives old friends the opportunity to reunite in a relaxed environment, away from work and their busy schedules. This event also starts new friendships, very strong bonds that I should not elaborate on. The old saying is true: “What happens on tour, stays on tour”. I saw two men, separated for a couple of years, greeting each other with a hug that lasted for over a minute. The only thought that came to mind was: “Wow, these guys love each other”. I drove around the course this weekend, and very few players told me that they are playing well, however I knew, playing well was just one part of this event, there is so much more to it.
Our Par 3 warm up competition was blown away and the prediction for Saturday was not favorable. Friday night started with a welcome function get together to explain the rules and confirm that we will have a 11h30 shotgun start for the first round. We watched a couple of brilliant videos that Jeff sent us from Royal Portrush and after that we enjoyed golf on the big screen. The weather prediction was accurate and we were able to play all 18 holes, in weather that I can describe as being difficult but fair. After round one Fred van Eyssen and Warren Knezz led the field with 45 points. With a strong 44 points Bryce Dakin and Darryl van der Vyver signaled that they are here to play. Defending their title, Hein Spangenberg and Eddie Nel accumulated 43 points as well as the team of Norman Dyer and Richard Vauqulin. After the round we were treated to a South African win against Australia in the rugby. The bar was full and I am sure the guys found the conditions inside the clubhouse much easier. Barry Hilton performed a great show Saturday night. He does enjoy coming out to our little town for a few laughs. Thanks for the great support everyone. Grant Bowen celebrated his 40th Birthday at the Leisure Center with a dress up party. His friends traveled from far to congratulate him on this special day.
Sunday morning started with an 8h30 shotgun and the weather was fantastic. Solid golf was played by a quarter of the field, the others were trying to figure out why golf is such a difficult game. Bryce Dakin and partner Darryl van der Vyver played great golf and ended up with a three point victory. Their 98 points equaled last year’s winning score. Congratulations Bryce and Darryl, your names will be engraved on the trophy and added to the honor’s board for everyone to see.
Shane Lowry had a dream come true Open Championship, winning by 6 shots. The year before at Carnoustie he sat in the parking lot, crying because he missed his fourth Open cut in a row. There he was, with a massive lead on home ground, in front of so many people that support him. He admitted that he was nervous, scared of messing up with such a lead. I think all of our locals understand how difficult the wind and rain was. To have him win, at Royal Portrush… Jeff you must have been surrounded by the happiest people on earth? I can not wait to hear and read all about it.
Thinus Keller
Head PGA Professional
The St Francis Links HOTEL by Mantis – SHOW UNITS are under construction
The proposed St Francis Links Hotel by Mantis is being sold as a sectional title scheme. Now, three units are being built as show units to promote sales.
The show unit, comprised of one, two bedroom unit and two, one-bedroom units will be complete for the season.
The Hotel will consist of 60 1 and 2-bedroom suites, modelled after the successful hotel development at Pearl Valley, where the 2nd phase was launched recently. The Clubhouse will be home to reception manned 24/7, the Food and Beverage services, AquaSpa and of course, the home of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course! Pam Golding Properties are handling the sales for the Hotel. Neil Fox is the lead person. Neil Fox neil.fox@pamgolding.co.za Saria Blaauw is assisting and they are dividing their time at The Links
Our events
Ernie and Linda Müller and their Team from Selective Lighting are making Fridays extra special at St Francis Links. Once a month, they host the Selective Lighting/The Fireworks Friday Competition. We shotgun start the players for 9 holes. Starting times are based on the season, 14h30 in the “Cool Season” and 15h30 in the summer months. Be a part of growing the Club and join us for nine and some good times after golf! Please enter in advance for numbers.
ITEC are our sponsors for OPEN Wednesday (2nd Wednesday) with meat and added prizes. Invite your friends to enjoy SA’s best with special rates for golf, snacks after the game and great prizes – Hey, sometimes Curry Night follows – stay or take away!
Monday Roll-up! Pitch up and play (9 holes or 18 Par-3 from 2pm) let’s add you to the What’s app group
All day Saturdays: Morning and afternoon fields – the afternoon field will be booked from 12 noon backwards with emphasis on “ready golf”
Monday Men’s Book Club – 5pm in Jack’s Bar (no reading required)
Ladies’ Tea (and Coffee) – Every Tuesday at 10am on the Veranda
Every Great shot starts (and ends) with a SMILE!
Santa and the Links TEAM
