A Jack Nicklaus designed course with a familiarity if you have played any of his other designs. The course itself is in immaculate condition and the greens roll true and quick. I unfortunately was in the area in July and one of the coldest Julys in the last decade. After fatting a 4 iron into the rough, my shoes were leaving snow stud marks on the green when I tapped my shoes. Not the best weather conditions for golf, but the course still held up and the company was second to none.
Fortunately, I was able to get a round with the Assistant Director of Golf at the Estate, so was made aware of all the peculiar aiming points that traditionally are accompanied with a Jack Nicklaus designed course. If you are playing for score, which I have not done for quite some time and probably will never do again, unless necessary, the par 5’s particularly on the front 9 are very scoreable.
The service in and around the clubhouse is superb. There are many smiling faces, ready to help with any issues you might have, or to give directions. Out of all the Jack Nicklaus designed courses I have had the privilege of playing, this is let down by its location. The course and the design are not horrible. Being challenging and giving opportunities to golfers to feel like they can actually play golf, which is fantastic. However, when you are out on the course, it just feels like another massive generic golf estate where people who have more money than sense have chosen to make their “humble” abodes.
How to get there
The course is located in Kempton Park, Johannesburg, getting there is not a problem if you are renting a car or have uber on your mobile device. As you will possibly want to enjoy the 19th hole, I would suggest an Uber. This would be my suggestion for all courses in South Africa.
Price and Rating
At around R1025.00 (US$ 55), it is an absolute steal compared internationally. It is a phenomenal course, however the surroundings do let it down a little bit, as I feel a little cramped with all of the houses. It has a soft spot due to my personal connection at the time of playing it, a great 9 out of 10 toes.