Umkomaas is a hidden gem of a course

THERE are some pretty golf courses in Kwazulu-natal and on the South Coast there’s one that stands out but is very underrated.

Umkomaas Golf Club is the one we are talking about this week. The club was in the spotlight for many years – especially when Tim Clark, who was one of South Africa’s leading professionals on the world circuit, was on top of his game. But having retired not many hear the name “Umkomaaster”, nor has the golf club been talked about.

However a visit to Umkomaas Golf Club last week proved pleasantly surprising as the club – which has been in existence for over 100 years now – is still going strong and in business. But like all golf clubs in the country these days there are financial constraints and the pandemic also hit hard.

However, there are positive signs as the membership has grown a little – thanks to the construction of a retirement village alongside the course – the members are still enjoying a round of golf regularly and a pint or two at the 19th hole, which is getting back to normality.

“It’s a great venue and the atmosphere is outstanding,” captain Graham Coxell said.

“We have battled along for some time now but I must admit that the retirement village has given us hope with their memberships. We are always a welcoming club – history proves this. We look forward to visitors at any given time as they enjoy a competitive round of golf at what we call a challenging 18-hole course. It’s never easy to play here, especially when the wind gets stronger. But what golfers enjoy here is the scenic beauty of the course when they play the different holes.”

Umkomaas Golf Club is the third oldest course in Kwazulu-natal and the majestic old indigenous trees will attest to this. The trademark amazing views over the Indian Ocean from most of the tee boxes will underline the pleasure of playing this course.

“Big hitters” will enjoy the longer holes but the shorter holes will demand careful planning and accurate play. The course is, however, forgiving enough for those who simply want a fun round in a picturesque setting.

Coxell adds: “With membership dropping over the years, the finances of the club has suffered but we keep our heads above water. As members we trying to do many things ourselves. It’s like a one big happy family and everyone is willing to assist wherever possible.”

There are several unique features at Umkomaas: There are no water hazards, the greens are raised due to the 100-plus years of top dressings, many well-styled bunkers will challenge your skills and the rough is mowed to a reasonable height but trouble awaits you if you go off course

Umkomaas Golf Club is one the few clubs in the province that cares for junior golfers. Every Saturday mornings a golf clinic – Kidzgolf – is held for children who are taught the basics as well as the rules and etiquette of game.

This amazing programme helps develop the next generation of golfers. Anyone is welcome and all equipment will be supplied free of charge. While Clark is one of many top golfers to come out of Umkomaas, Manny Zerman, who was a top amateur in his day, and Garth Mulroy, a Sunshine pro who also campaigned on the PGA Tour and the European Tour, are products on this magic little club on the South Coast – a 45-minute drive from Durban.