Ted Keenan writes for ELGC

MEMBERS of East London Golf Club have known for decades what the Sunshine Tour learnt over the week’s activities leading up to and the playing of the Africa Open; this is a great club, with a fine course, an outstanding team spirit, and members committed to the club’s well-being. All of which added to the decision and subsequent announcement that the Open would be played again in November later this year, but with an upgraded status and increased prize money.

Grant Wilson, the Sunshine Tour's Chief Operating Officer, said that the recently concluded event was a credit to the club, its members, and the city. It was more than that in terms of revenue to East London and the image of the city. B ‘n B’s were bulging, hotels showed increased bed nights, restaurants were well supported and Mike Page, MD of Hemingway’s Hotel and Casino said business was up over 40% on January 2008.

Particularly pleasing was Wilson’s reference to the East London crowd being “very knowledgeable spectators”, which was much appreciated by the players and officials alike.

“There is a palpable team spirit at this club that was evident in everything that went on during the Africa Open, and it was a key factor in making it a great tournament,” said Wilson. “This event has already become extremely popular with the players. When they learnt that we are adding it to the European Tour, there was an enthusiasm to again take part in it. Aside from the co-sanctioned European Tour aspect it will also be part of the Road to Dubai, which is extremely lucrative for the players. We can expect many more big names, to add to the likes of Retief (Goosen), Darren (Clarke), and Angel (Cabrera).”

Talking of the big Argentinean Cabrera, his record breaking 62, later eclipsed by Richard Sterne’s 61, had predictions of 30-plus under being the winning score. Eventual winner Goosen managed 21 under, in conditions that club members described as perfect. Commentators Dale Hayes and Dennis Hutchison often referred to the course as “the Grand Old Lady” during superb TV coverage on Saturday and Sunday, which in itself was advertising ELGC and the city could never hope to buy. Come November, when the “Grand Old Lady” swirls herself in howling easterlies and westerlies, gone will be the “old”, replaced possibly by “feisty” and with it any suggestions of another 61.

Not only will the Africa Open become a major event on the South Africa Sunshine Tour, as Wilson predicts, but it will also be one of the early catalyst to making the Border area a popular golf tourism destination.  “I understand that there are a few golf estates in the planning stages within easy driving distance from the city. Add two or three of them to Fish River and East London, and hopefully a resurgent West Bank, and you have the makings of a very enjoyable golfing safari for overseas visitors.”