The global coronavirus pandemic has had irreparable effects on daily life throughout the world. Massive temporary changes have had to be put in place in order to slow the virus’ spread. With the world going under a necessary lockdown, all sports, more importantly (from where I’m sitting) golf felt the impact almost immediately with Majors like The Masters having to cancel or postpone to a much later date. Leaving professional and golf fans alike feeling lost and unprepared to deal with the implications of withdrawal symptoms.
The devastating impact of the lockdown on the golf community as a whole has been enormous. South Africa has over 500 golf courses that employ hundreds of thousands of people from caddies, ground staff, hospitality, golf tourism, events…I could go on… Our caddies being affected the most. Courses like Royal Johannesburg, Copperleaf, Serengeti…just to name a few, including their members have done an amazing job with trying to assist the staff during this trying time.
Sunshine Tour to the rescue with something less devastating than the results of the pandemic, with a fun and lighthearted entertaining way.
Sunshine Tour Virtual Golf Challenge
The Sunshine Tour’s professionals have been making up for a lack of live tournament golf during the COVID-19 pandemic by challenging each other on the Sunshine Tour Virtual Golf Challenge game.
Each week two Sunshine Tour professionals accept a challenge and then play 9 holes against each other online, and which is live streamed via YouTube for the country’s golf fans to watch.
The 3rd match, a rematch of the virtual challenge between Brandon Stone and Haydn Porteous took place this past Sunday 10th May. After Porteous’ untimely exit from the first match the Sunday before due to wifi technical difficulties. He was fired up for the 2nd round rematch and the match was tougher and more entertaining this time with both players wanting the win.
Unfortunately, unintentionally I seem to have been a big distraction after asking Stone a serious question about his foundation, that required him to take some concentration off his game during a crucial putt. My bad!!! 😂😂 This led to Porteous tying the match at 1-1 and the trophy being shared as a final result.
I sincerely apologize for my part in “The Stones” dimise but must say I was happy with the response to my question about his foundation. Who’s launch that was scheduled for the 7th April 2020 unfortunately had to be postponed indefinitely due to the Covid-19 virus outbreak and subsequent lockdown. Look out for any news on this great initiative in the future that is aimed at giving back in more ways than just golf.
Personally I’m a big fan of both golfers and an even bigger fan of people who like to help others win in life too, through giving back and gratitude.
If you haven’t already tuned in on one of these, I suggest you do next Sunday. Thoroughly entertaining and lighthearted way to get to know your Pros.
Catch you on the fairways….
This Girl's Golf Diary 