Cape Town's unique recreational spirit: a passionate cross-cultural group enjoying activities together in an attractive landscape. Often what is missed in the debate about appropriate land use in Cape Town is that golf courses, as large spaces, are not necessarily the preserve of the elite, as often presumed. These spaces are incorrectly considered to be the bloated white elephants of the urban landscape. They are, in fact, hard-working economic, heritage and environmental assets. Disagreements about what and when to develop will always be part of a dynamic city such as Cape Town, but as the summer surge of golfing visitors takes place, it is a good time to
golf offering. A competitive selection of varied golfing choices is needed to take advantage of the golf tourism market. Even when foreign tourists, who spend considerable amounts thanks to a favourable exchange rate, are re- moved from the equation, golf clubs have local economic value. They are in- stitutions that offer work, often through restaurants and other hospitality func- tions. KDM employs 100 dedicated staff members and provides a livelihood to almost as many families. What sets the Western Cape apart as a golfing destination is not only its scenery and favourable climate, but our country’s rich golfing heritage, a foundation built by legendary players like Bobby Locke, Gary Player, Ernie Els and Retief Goosen. Historic courses such as KDM are an integral part of this heritage. The original course was improved upon by famed course architect and golfing pioneer Bob Grimsdell. It hosted
the South African Open seven times between 1932 and 1987. What often moves visitors is that the club’s long history tells the story of unity and acceptance. The unification of the King David and Mowbray golf clubs in January 2016, and its incorporation of Cape Peninsula GC members, brought previously disadvantaged communities together. This golfing space is a monument to sport overcoming our divided past. The former Mowbray GC had a proud history beginning in 1910. The former King David GC members were largely from the Jewish community, a club founded in the 1950s when Jews were not welcome at premier clubs. With the incorporation of Cape Peninsula GC members, the new KDM GC became a truly diverse community, bringing together players from a variety of racial and economic backgrounds, whether from the city bowl, cape flats, or southern suburbs. It encapsulates
reflect seriously on the value of our golf courses as unique economic drivers, tourist attractions, and job creators.
Mike Flax is Chairperson of King David Mowbray GC
KING DAVID MOWBRAY The clubhouse (left) and the par-3 16th with Devil’s Peak as a backdrop. King David Mowbray is No 84 in the Golf Digest rankings.
GOLF DIGEST SOUTH AFRICA 21
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025
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