Spectators turned out in large numbers at Houghton Golf Club on Saturday, 8 March, as the Joburg Open International Golf Tournament entered its third day of play under clear skies and warm conditions.
Fans of all ages lined the fairways to cheer on elite golfers competing in the prestigious tournament, which is co-sanctioned by the Sunshine Tour and DP World Tour. With temperatures reaching 28°C, attendees came prepared with sunglasses, sunscreen, and wide-brimmed hats as they enjoyed the action.
The four-day tournament teed off on Thursday, 6 March, with the Executive Mayor, Cllr Dada Morero, striking the ceremonial opening shot. Now, with the competition intensifying, more than 70 golfers have made the cut and remain in contention for the coveted 2025 Joburg Open title.
Among the crowd was Brendon Dedekind, who brought his two children along after winning tickets through MyGolfLife. A keen golfer himself, Dedekind saw the event as the perfect opportunity to introduce his young ones to the sport.
“I’m rooting for all the South African players. It’s exciting to see Johannesburg hosting a tournament of this magnitude. This City is a world-class business hub, and events like these showcase that,” he said.
Friends Amanda Mantyi and Zoleka Plaatjie said they relished the atmosphere on the course and looked forward to supporting the players throughout the weekend.
Meanwhile, S’phethile Mpanza, another enthusiastic spectator, attended to deepen her understanding of the sport. “I’m a huge golf fan, and my sister is training to go pro, so I want to familiarise myself with the game. I’m not supporting anyone in particular today, just here to appreciate the sport as a whole,” she said.
The tournament remains open to spectators on Sunday, 9 March, for the final round. Those attending should note the following logistical arrangements:
- No parking is available at Houghton Golf Club. Spectators driving to the event must park at Norwood Mall, where a shuttle service will operate from the Burger King entrance. The shuttle runs every 30 minutes from 7am until 4pm, with return trips beginning thereafter.
- Those using Uber or other ride-hailing services should be dropped off at the 2nd Avenue gate of Houghton Golf Club.
- Tickets are available for purchase on the Sunshine Tour website.
Golf fans in Johannesburg will not want to miss this opportunity to witness top-tier professional golf on home soil.
Written by Brümilda Swartbooi