Ernie Els talks to the Sunshine Tour about the start of his 30th season as a professional as he prepares to play and host the BMW SA Open at Glendower.
Ernie’s blog:
It’s hard to believe this will be my 30th season as a professional golfer, but let’s face it, there’s probably no better way to start things off than by hosting and playing in the BMW SA Open hosted by the City of Ekurhuleni. This is such a special tournament for all South African golfers and it’s great to see so many home players in the field this year. Thank you guys. We also happen to have three Masters champions teeing it up at Glendower, including my good friend Mike Weir who is playing on South African turf for the first time in 15 years. Good to have you here, Mike.
As I’ve said many times, I take very seriously my commitments as the tournament’s official host. To be involved in a capacity where you can give something back to this tournament is just a phenomenal gift. Saying that, my primary focus is still to play, compete and try to win here. Old habits die hard! Glendower has always been an incredible course, the best in the Johannesburg area, and the team have got it in great shape; the rough is up and the greens are slick. It’s just great to be back and playing in front of the home fans. The support is amazing, so thank you in advance to everyone who attends this week and helps create such a buzz around the golf course.
In fact, as usual, I find myself giving thanks to a lot of people. Thank you to our sponsors, particularly the City of Ekurhuleni and BMW who are doing a standout job in helping us grow the SA Open. Thanks to the Nomads and all the volunteers; we couldn’t do this without you. Thanks also to everyone at the Sunshine Tour and the European Tour and for making Els for Autism and the Ernie Els & Fancourt Foundation the beneficiary charities. Lastly, and importantly, thank you to all the members of Glendower Golf Club for giving up your beautiful course.
For anyone planning to be here this week, there are lots of activities all around the property that are designed to make the fan experience as enjoyable as possible. That includes the availability of several wines from the Ernie Els Wines portfolio. They’re all wonderful, but maybe give the Cabernet Sauvignon a try. It’s been getting lots of great reviews and industry ratings just lately. An impressive 92 points from the prestigious Wine Spectator magazine particularly caught my eye.
For anyone thinking of coming along, click here for tickets. And if you’re simply watching from afar, sit back and enjoy the action from the 107th edition of the second oldest national open in world golf. It sure is a proud week for South African sport and long may that continue. For me and for all of the established home players, we have a responsibility to ensure that this tournament is sustainable and thriving for generations to come. We’ll continue working with the Sunshine Tour to achieve this shared vision, to keep pushing the message out there and try to attract more of the world’s best players. We’ve got this nice date in the schedule now and it’s clear to see how the tournament can continue to go from strength to strength.
Photo: Luke Walker/Sunshine Tour/Gallo Images
