Spectacular scenes as Joburg Open draws enthusiastic crowds

The Houghton Golf Club was alive with energy as hundreds of spectators flocked in numbers on a radiant Saturday afternoon to witness the riveting action on the third day of the Joburg Open. Equipped with sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats, the enthusiastic crowd enjoyed a perfect sunny day, creating a picturesque backdrop for an eventful day of competitive golf.

The beautiful Saturday, 25 November weather provided an ideal setting for spectators to stroll along the lawns of the Houghton Golf Club, closely following the live action of the four-day international golf tournament that commenced on Thursday, 23 November.

As competition intensified among golfers, the anticipation for the announcement of the winner on Sunday, 26 November 2023, reached a fever pitch.

Among the spectators were brothers Ruaan and Renier Smith, who travelled from Centurion to lend their support to JC Ritchie, an old school friend.

“We’re happy to be here. This is a beautiful course, and we’re excited to see how things will play out. As brothers, we’re finally watching a Joburg Open tournament together for the first time,” said Ruaan.

For friends Asanda Kunene and Neli Tshozana, the event presented an opportunity to learn about golf and immerse themselves in a sport they are not well acquainted with.

“It’s a good experience to get to know a sport we’re not familiar with and a really nice outing on a Saturday. This is a different activity, and it’s amazing to learn and be in this environment,” Kunene remarked.

Tshozana added: “This allowed us to try out something new, which is why we decided to come see a sport we’re not familiar with. It is nice to try new things.”

Azhar Cassim, a Joburg resident and a fervent golf enthusiast, commended the magnificent location of the Joburg Open 2023. Cassim said the serene atmosphere at the tournament, coupled with professional golfers competing for the gleaming trophy, convinced him to leave the comfort of his home.

Azhar noted the calm and cheerful ambiance, contributing to the overall perfection of his experience.

“There is a sense of achievement and satisfaction associated with golf, and this makes the Joburg Open 2023 an ideal place for me to witness my favourite sporting event,” he said.

Neil Cilliers travelled from Pretoria to support Hennie du Plessis, expressing his love for the ambiance surrounding the course and acknowledging the challenging nature of the Houghton Golf Club.

Cilliers is rooting for Thriston Lawrence, who is currently relishing a top-10 spot on the leaderboard.

Richard Migwalla, another spectator, commended the consistent performance of South African golfers in the tournament.

“The Joburg Open has consistently maintained its reputation as a premier golf event featuring skilled and accomplished players,” said Migwalla.

As the much-anticipated announcement of the winner looms for Sunday, 26 November, the stakes are high. The victorious golfer will share in a substantial prize purse of 1.5 million euros, equivalent to R20.5 million, with other players who made the cut.

For those eager to catch the action live, tickets are still available for purchase at R150 for general access on the Sunshine Tour website (Sunshine Tour Tickets). The tournament is also being broadcast live on SuperSport channel 213 between 12 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., ensuring that fans worldwide can be part of the excitement.