Keelan van Wyk has been handed a spot in the field for the SA Open Championship after Heinrich Bruiners won automatic qualification at the Joburg Open.
As the highest-placed professional (not otherwise exempt) on the Papwa Sewgolum Class Order of Merit, Bruiners was awarded the sponsor’s invitation to join the 156-strong field at the Investec SA Open.
However, having finished in an impressive sixth place in the Joburg Open last weekend, Bruiners automatically qualifies for the SA Open, leaving the door open for third-placed Order of Merit player, Van Wyk.
On receiving the invitation to compete at the Blair Atholl Golf and Equestrian Estate, Keelan says he feels extremely privileged to play in such a prestigious event.
“When looking at the past winners’ list, it’s full of South African greats, and many other European players who have also gone on to write some amazing history in the game,” he said.
“For me, should things go my way, I now also stand the chance of being a part of history. I’ve managed to get two top 10s in my last four or five events so my game is definitely going in the right direction.
“In terms of expectations for the SA Open Championship, I personally have never played Blair Atholl Golf and Equestrian Estate before – but from what I have heard, it’s a magnificent course.
“I played in the SA Open in 2019 – it was a great experience for me. I am just really excited, I can’t stop smiling.”
Peta Dixon, Investec’s head of sponsorships, says this experience should stand Van Wyk in good stead on his golfing journey to greatness.
“We are equally thrilled for Heinrich’s fantastic finish this past weekend as we are for the opportunity that Keelan now has,” Dixon said.
“We know that Keelan will grab this opportunity with open arms and perform to the best of his ability. We are 100% behind both golfers and wish the full field well. The most powerful possibilities are human.”
