Selborne Park the ‘Augusta’ of KZN golf courses
SELBORNE Park Golf Course, on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, or rather the “Golf Coast” as it has become known, is yet another gem of a course for any player.
It is acclaimed as the ‘Augusta’ of South Africa, rightly so with all the challenges it throws at you and because of the fantastic layout. This recently revamped 18-hole, Par-72 (rating 69), which has water features at most holes, was designed by Denis Barker. No wonder it was chosen so often as one of the destinations for the Sunshine Tour’s Vodacom Origins of Golf.
Another feature of this beautiful layout is that there are stunning views of the sea – from 11 of the 18 holes. It’s like most of the courses on the “Golf Coast” such as Amanzimtoti, Umkomaas, Scottburgh, Port Shepstone, Southbroom, Port Edward, Umdoni Park and Wild Coast Sun Country Club, to name a few.
Barker was the man who who established Selborne, which has a world-class driving range adjoining the property. It’s alongside Africa’s biggest putting green and the resident PGA professional, Trevor Wilkes, who is held in high esteem by the likes of Gary Player and Dale Hayes, is always on hand to assist those who struggle with their game.
There isn’t a single stand-out signature hole, but Selborne Park’s Par-5 third challenges every player. You have to make a great effort with your drive, with trouble on the left, but there’s some forgiveness right. The hole is described by Hayes as “not for the faint-hearted”. The second shot has been likened to hitting into a funnel with natural bush on the right and “out of bounds” on the left. For the low handicapper who hits a long ball, taking on the green is full of reward, but the risk left and back of the green looms in the form of a stunning natural water feature.
“This is a fantastic hole,” says John Ridl, the general manager of the club. “Having said that, this entire layout is a gem – it has everything a golfer would want. There are challenges, and some holes where one would feel it’s easy.”
Ridl joined the club two years ago after deciding to give up The Pro Shop franchise he owned in Pietermaritzburg. He does not have a “real” golf background, but he has been “dabbling” with golf products – tours and so on.
“When I was offered the job as general manager, I jumped at it. I’ve enjoyed it very much so far. There’s a buzz at Selborne Park again, especially as the hotel has been refurbished.”
The course is set on an eco-estate. Golfers are sure to spot some of the resident wildlife on the course’s manicured fairways, in the coastal forest and lush, natural bush.
KZN’s sub-tropical climate provides a fantastic year-round golf experience for members, international visitors and locals, plus the luxury villas on offer at Selborne make the venue an unforgettable seaside holiday experience.
Selborne Park has just over 400 members – every home owner is a member. But they are open to groups and companies.
Ridl says: “We certainly are a popular destination for corporate golf days – sometimes these are held over two or three days. It’s all because we have all the facilities – a pro shop which is well stocked, a lovely halfway house and a restaurant, while our clubhouse is old-style, but cosy.”
Selborne Park has seen a movement in rounds in recent years.
“We are attracting larger groups from upcountry and, with the availability of accommodation on-site, many companies are holding golf days here for their guests,” Ridl said.
The condition of Selborne Park is good at the moment, even though the province is going through a severe drought. The fairways and greens are “magic”, according to Ridl.
The resident superintendent is Hein Labuschagne, who has a keen eye and has done a superb job at Selborne Park.
Ridl says: “It’s always a pleasure to work with a good team, and Hein and Trevor (Wilkes) have been wonderful for the club. Hein and his team have done a wonderful job on the course, while Trevor has been a wonderful professional and a respected one, too.”
Selborne Park has some attractions each year, and this week it is one of three venues for the Sardine Run, which includes Scottburgh and Umkomaas.
The club’s major attraction is the Selborne Classic – it’s played over three days and attracts more than 180 players. This year’s classic takes place on August 11-13.
The other big event is for women – club members and visitors. It’s called the Ladies Invitational, which is held over two days and will take place on July 3-4.