In a month dedicated to women, we decided to try our hand at what is still considered by some to be the ultimate ‘gentleman’s game’.
Surrounded by some of the most beautiful golf courses in the country, it seems almost iniquitous as a North Coaster not to try hitting a few balls, at least once.
So, in true Get It style, we donned our golfing best (well, a comfy pair of pants and a tee) and headed off for golf lessons with one of Ballito (and South Africa’s) golfing greats, Warren Abery.
Father of two and husband to Kirsten, Warren has had an impressive golfing career, which started when he won the South African amateur in 1995. He turned pro in 1997 and went on to win seven times, including the South African PGA and the SA Masters on two occasions. Warren played on the European tour in 2006 and 2012 and started his teaching academy in April 2017 at Umhlali Country Club.
Despite all of his success on the golf course, or maybe because of it, Warren is an extremely down-to-earth, approachable golfer, who is always keen to offer advice where needed. And in instance, it was needed.
With a couple of us having only ever hit a few golf balls in our lives, we were less than confident when we arrived at Umhlali Country Club’s driving range. But it didn’t take long for Warren to settle our nerves and before long we were hitting balls like pro’s. No, not really. But every time the club did connect with the ball, I felt myself tapping into my inner ‘Tiger Woods’!
After our one-hour lesson we had a cup of coffee and a few laughs about our good and bad moments and all agreed we would like to book a few more lessons. We also thought it would be a great idea to book as a group of ladies and follow up our lesson with a champagne breakfast at the club. Don’t we just have the best ideas?!
3 great reasons to take up golf with your girlfriends:
- It’s good for your health. Although you don’t have to be super fit to play golf, it definitely counts as exercise. Walking an average golf course can be around 6km and we all definitely had a few stiff muscles from swinging the club.
- Fresh air and sunshine. While working out at a gym can be great, there is nothing like being outside in the fresh air. And we have some of the most beautiful courses in the country on our doorstep.
- It’s fun! Golf is renowned for being a social game – business deals are made and friendships forged on golf courses the world over. And there’s no reason why you can’t do it too. The fact that everyone plays off their own handicap means people of all skill levels can play together.
Details: Warren Abery: 082 990 7241 / www.facebook.com/warrenaberygolf/
Text: LEAH SHONE
