Golf in South Africa is a truly remarkable experience, boasting some of the world's most picturesque and challenging courses. Among these, three clubs stand out for their unique history, exceptional course features and the unforgettable golfing experiences they offer. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Benoni Country Club, Pretoria Country Club and Pearl Valley Golf Club, shedding light on what makes them top destinations for golf enthusiasts in South Africa.
- Benoni Country Club
Our journey into the world of South African golf begins with the charming. This club has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1906, when it was originally known as the Van Ryn Golf Club. Back then, it served as a recreational haven for the employees of the Van Ryn gold mine. What started as a modest 9-hole course soon evolved into a full-fledged 18-hole layout, setting the stage for generations of golfers to come.
Over the years, Benoni Country Club has undergone several significant improvements, elevating its status among golf enthusiasts. Notable improvements include a redesign by the legendary Bob Grimsdell, refurbishment of bunkers and greens by Christian Robinson and an upgrade carried out by Golf Data.
One of the remarkable characteristics of Benoni is its ability to maintain a sense of spaciousness despite the encroaching residential developments that surround the course. The term 'old-school parkland' is often used to describe the course, and it's a testament to the original layout that the course doesn't feel cramped or confined.
One of the hallmarks of Benoni is its balanced mix of holes, each offering unique challenges and opportunities for golfers. What truly stands out are the well-defined greens that provide a canvas for intriguing pin positions.
A notable characteristic of the course is the fact that both nines start and end with par fives, and all of them measure over 550 yards from the back tees. However, the crown jewel of Benoni Country Club is undoubtedly the 18th hole. Many golfers and experts alike consider it one of the best closing holes in Gauteng province. One of the five picturesque lakes on the property and a heavily wooded area will greet you as you approach this difficult hole, which leads to a two-tiered home green.
- Pretoria Country Club
Our next stop on the South African golf tour brings us to the elegant Pretoria Country Club , nestled in the upscale Waterkloof suburb to the east of the city. This club has a unique distinction: it still occupies its original site from its inception in 1910. The club's enduring location can be attributed to the captivating lake behind the clubhouse, which was a focal point of the club's early years and remains an attraction for members and visitors alike.
Pretoria Country Club presents a parkland course that offers a scenic experience with a relatively modest number of water hazards in play. However, it more than compensates with its strategic bunkering, a feature that challenges golfers to think carefully about their shots. Notably, the eighth hole boasts an island green, accessible only via a bridge, adding a touch of excitement to the round.
The course underwent modernization when the Gary Player Group took charge, further enhancing its appeal. Bunkers, in particular, are a prominent feature of this course. For instance, the uphill par-5 18th hole boasts a total of 13 bunkers, six of which guard the green, making it a true test of precision and strategy.
In 2018, Pretoria Country Club embarked on a significant project to restore all 18 greens and the practice of putting green. In order to address issues with the bent grass greens, such as poa infestations and drainage issues, Southern Turf Management, their golf course maintenance contractor, led this restoration effort. The result is a course with quality putting surfaces using Dominator bent grass. Additionally, three greens (holes 11, 13 and 15) had their slopes and contours softened to provide more pin positions, enhancing the overall playability of the course.
Pretoria Country Club has a rich history of hosting major championships, further establishing its reputation as a superb test of golf. In 2006, it was the prestigious venue for the Centennial Women's SA Amateur, where 16-year-old Ashleigh Simon achieved the remarkable feat of winning both the strokeplay and matchplay trophies.
- Pearl Valley Golf Club
Our golfing journey in South Africa culminates at the breathtaking Pearl Valley Golf Club. Since its opening in 2003, this club's design by two golfing legends, Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus, has gained a reputation as one of the nation's most beautiful golf courses.
Jack Nicklaus, renowned worldwide for his stunning golf courses, brought his signature style to Pearl Valley. The course is built on expansive sand dunes and encourages a daring, high-stakes approach to the game. Golfers are challenged to balance power with precision as they navigate water hazards and shrubland lining the fairways.
One of the standout features of Pearl Valley is its stunning backdrop—the majestic mountains of the Western Cape. Each hole on this course is framed by the picturesque mountains, creating a truly unforgettable golfing experience.
Jack Nicklaus's distinctive design elements are evident throughout the course, with vast sandy areas adding to the challenge and beauty of the layout. The inaugural match at Pearl Valley in 2003, featuring Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, marked the beginning of a legacy that has garnered international awards and recognition.
As you make your way through the course, you'll encounter various challenges, from huge water hazards to wild grass and scrubland that threaten any wayward shots. Pearl Valley truly embodies the spirit of golf in South Africa—a blend of natural beauty, strategic design and the legacy of golf legends.
Final Thoughts
South Africa's golfing landscape is a tapestry woven with history, natural beauty and challenging courses. Benoni Country Club ’s timeless charm, Pretoria Country Club ’s strategic design and Pearl Valley Golf Club’s stunning backdrop make these clubs essential destinations for golf enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking a traditional parkland course, a strategic challenge or a breathtaking golfing experience, these clubs offer a journey through the heart of South African golf.
