Champions to defend their titles and Sanlam SA Women’s Championship

Port Elizabeth Golf Club last hosted the South African Women’s Amateur Championship in 1998 and this week women’s golf returns to the friendly city and the golf course that bears its name. This prestigious championship which was first played in 1906, will take place in Port Elizabeth from 11 to 16 April 2010.

WGSA anticipates a week of golf of the very highest standard as the best in the country compete for the supreme achievement in any player’s amateur career. The 2009 Champions, Swaziland’s Nobuhle Dlamini and Yvette du Plessis from Western Province can expect tough opposition as they return to defend their respective titles. The field also includes top-ranked Kim Williams playing off +2, Connie Chen (+3), Alana van Greuning (+1) and Namibia’s Bonita Bredenhann (0). Bertine Strauss, currently aiming for a top matric pass, has not participated in all provincial tournaments, but will be in PE next week.

WGSA President Erica Lefson reports that the course will be set up as a 72 par with increased meterage. Our players who travel overseas and those thinking about turning professional have requested the length to reflect similar international standards. WGSA has respected the request and we look forward to a great contest between South Africa’s best and our visiting international players.

Sanlam continues to be a tremendous supporter of amateur golf in the country and we are privileged to have the backing of such a respected and powerful company for the sixth consecutive year.

A number of international players are included in the field, two from as far away as Sri Lanka. Other countries represented are Tanzania, Botswana, Swaziland and Namibia.

The 134-strong field will contest the 54-hole Stroke Play Championship from 11 to 13 April, with the top 32 in each division going forward to contest the Match Play Championship over the following three days.