What a show! Golf’s greatest show – undoubtedly! The Ryder Cup was just incredible. Two weeks of fantastic golf. Two weeks? Yes, let’s not forget the Solheim Cup. Huge galleries watched the top European and US female golfers battling it out for victory.

And a battle royal it turned out to be. Some have argued that it was a little disappointing that it was a draw therefore allowing Europe to retain the Cup – three consecutive times which is a record for them – and the first tme there has ever been a draw. The golf was certainly far from boring, with my highlight being the local Spaniard, Carlota Ciganda, taking a convincing win in the singles on the Sunday to secure the Cup for the Europeans. The Solheim Cup takes place again next year and will once again be in annual rotation with the Ryder Cup.

Then there was the Ryder Cup. There were actually so many moments to reflect on. I am sure every person watching had their standout moment or perhaps a few that remain firmly ensconced in their memories highlights package. Some were rather moving and, call me a softie, but my heart went out to Mr Nice Guy, Scottie Scheffler, when he just couldn’t find a win and collapsed in tears. Remember, these guys aren’t playing for bucks (despite Pat “Captalay’s” poor timing to voice his discord over a lack of remuneration for playing) but for national pride. Seeing former Open winner, Shane Lowry, acting as cheerleader for the European team, completely caught up in the fervour and passion the team event evokes. Watching Victor Hovland and Ludvig Åberg dismantle the world No 1, Scheffler and the five-time Major champion, and only LIV golf player in the Cup, 9&7 in the Saturday foursomes. It was almost unbelievable to see the demolition and it never ended there really, despite some rallies, the Europeans just kept attacking and eventually were just too good for the US. A lot has been said about hometown advantage, and it would certainly seem to be a major factor in determining the winners. While the crowds were the biggest I have seen, there was a sense (to me) of unruliness not usually associated with European golf, with an almost open season in verbals being levelled at the opposition. This, of course, will come back in spades in the US. Banter is good, support is good, passion is great, but there should always be a sense of decorum – it is after all golf not wrestling.

Summer seems to be arm wrestling with winter and while there is a definite shift towards the sunny side we have been hit hard by winter flexing. The Western Cape was smashed recently, with a number of golf courses being severely affected. It is great to see how the courses have bounced back quickly and we are certainly looking forward to supporting our clubs with many rounds this summer, not only playing but also the local store, caddies, lessons with the pros and the hospitality facilities – let’s show them some love.

This issue is packed with great local content and features. Erik van Rooyen who, besides being a great golfer, is also one of the characters that golf sorely needs – a snappy dresser and always quick to smile and laugh. Dale Hayes gives us insight into some of our proud golfing history, TGM explains the new FedExCup format, we catch up with SA Amateur champion Kyra van Kan and take a walk inside the ropes with Gerhard Pepler, who is leading the Sunshine Tour Rookie of the Year standings. And let’s not forget Grant Hepburn’s instruction!

Being a digital publication, the statistics gained are giving us insight into what you guys are reading. It is showing us how we can improve and adapt our content, shaping our magazine’s personality and giving you more of what you want. Enjoy!

See you on the fairway!

Shayne Dowling

Publishing Editor