Schalk Naude has returned from the British Senior Amateur Championships and we sat down with him at Randpark Club over a cup of coffee and discussed his experience.
“On the first round I took 84 shots (+14) and second round 75 (+5). I missed the cut which was at +14 so did not play final round. Golf is not meant to be fair and the weather does play an important role,” said Naude.
“My first round was played in heavy rain and the committee closed the course at 2pm due to being waterlogged. At that stage I had completed 16 holes in the rain and my score was +13. Over the next two days, in good weather, I completed 20 holes at 6 over par but is was not good enough. There were players who had not even started their first round when play was called off, therefore they played all their rounds only in good weather. The “luck of the draw” was important, but I just did not play well enough in the conditions, which was very disappointing.”
The tournament is revered by senior amateurs across the world. 16 Countries were represented with as many as 68 United States players. The tournament was held at Sunningdale Golf Club, a very private and exclusive club at which one would never be able to play, were it not be for the tournament.
“You experience the tournament in exactly the same way as professionals would, which is a very special feeling. Congratulations to fellow countryman Steve Williams who finished tied second at +6.”
Well done for being able to take part. I did not know you were on your way, because I would have put a huge bet on you. Johannesburg gholfers will allways have a weather disadvantage at any other course because we only play good weather here.