SA team ready for action in Tigre

The South African team put the finishing touches to their preparation for the Southern Cross Invitational in Wednesday’s final practice round at the Nordelta Golf Club in Tigre, Argentina.

South Africa’s number one ranked amateur Tristen Strydom will lead Jason Smith, Gerlou Roux and Hendrikus Stoop into battle in the prestigious international teams event against teams from Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, France, Ireland and Portugal.

National coach Llewellyn van Leeuwen said the players have had several trips around the par-72 Jack Nicklaus-designed layout that places a premium on ball striking.

“The course almost looks like a mix between the courses at Serengeti and Pearl Valley,” said the TuksSport Golf Academy head coach.

“It demands very good driving, so accuracy off the tee is key. The greens are big and generous and they are very good, so we can expect to see some low scores.”

The course has played host a top amateur events, including the Argentine Open Championship in 2009, 2012 and 2013, as well as the 113th Amateur Championship.

It is characterised by large waste areas and big lagoons and typical of Nicklaus designed courses, the greens are fiercely protected by bunkers.

Van Leeuwen said that although Strydom and Roux are still under treatment, the players are champing at the bit to get going.

“Unfortunately Tristen and Gerlou picked up some back niggles during the Argentine Stroke Play Championship,” the national coach said.

“However, they are working with a physiotherapist and I expect them to come out charging in the first round.

“The team is geared up for the tournament and everyone is looking forward to some great challenges over the next few days.”

Each country is represented by four players in the 72-hole championship, with the best three scores from each round counting toward the overall team total.

All the participants will earn World Amateur Golf Rankings points.

Written and released by Lali Stander on behalf of the South African Golf Association.

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