Pros’ hunt for ‘The Leopard’ starts today
The Alfred Dunhill Championship, overlooking Kruger National Park, takes place at the magnificent Leopard Creek Country Club, starting today.
While the event will be without spectators this year, players are looking forward to another memorable championship.
The splendour of the location has been a wonderful backdrop over the years to the world-class golf played, which has been reflected in the quality of its champions.
Since its inception in 2000, the list of past champions has included major champions and former world number ones Adam Scott, Justin Rose, Charl Schwartzel and Ernie Els.
The defending champion is Pablo Larrazábal, who kept going last year despite foot problems, to win by one shot in an exciting finish.
While there is excitement that the Alfred Dunhill Championship is able to go ahead, it is unfortunate that no spectators will be allowed.
“In our 21st year, we are delighted that the event can continue, albeit in a different way. We are sorry that we cannot have spectators, but we are sure golf fans will understand,” said Guy Sanan, of the Richemont Group, a sponsor of the event.
“We would like to thank so many people who have made it possible for us to carry on. The Sunshine Tour, the European Tour, the professionals and the officials, volunteers and staff who give up their time to put on this unique event.
“We look forward to welcoming the professionals to Leopard Creek, and showcasing the wonder of the natural splendour of South Africa to a global audience.”
Denmark’s Lucas Bjerregaard will seek to become only the second golfer in history to win both the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship and its sister tournament the Alfred Dunhill Championship when he tees it up today, hoping to lift the trophy on Sunday.
Bjerregaard won the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in St Andrews in Scotland in 2018 to claim his second European Tour title. A win at Leopard Creek will see him join South Africa’s Branden Grace as the only players to have ever won both of these titles. Grace achieved this in 2012 and 2014.
“They are two very special events in their own way, and played on very special courses. So of course I’m really excited about going to Leopard Creek, and hopefully I can join Branden in winning both of them,” said Bjerregaard.
The professionals’ appreciation for Leopard
Creek as one of the most special tournament venues in world golf is universal, and Bjerregaard is no exception.
“Leopard Creek is unique. I’ve never played a course quite like it. I’m always amazed when I’m there as to how Gary Player and Johann Rupert could even imagine a golf course like that in those surroundings. I think anyone that has ever had the privilege of playing Leopard Creek has been amazed standing on the 13th green (which overlooks the Kruger National Park).
It’s pretty special putting with elephants and crocodiles in the background.”
A victory at Leopard Creek would also be a first for
Danish golf. Bjerregaard was the second Danish golfer to win the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, but a Danish golfer has yet to triumph in the Alfred Dunhill Championship.
The closest they have come is two runner-up finishes by Anders Hansen and Thorbjørn Olesen.
Apart from a place in golf history, Bjerregaard has another incentive to come to South Africa.
“I can’t lie, I love the food in South Africa. We always get treated so well in South Africa and I’ve met a lot of great people while being there. I’ve been on a few amazing safaris there and I try to go as much as I can. It’s always amazing seeing all these animals.”
The championship will be broadcast on DStv channel 213.
Since its inception in 2000, the list of past champions has included major champions