The SA Non-European Open Championships
The first South African Non-European Open Championship was held in Kimberley in 1949 and was won by R Ditsebe. The SA (Non-European) Golf Association had been formed in 1948 and one of their first initiatives was the inauguration of the Open Championship. In those early days there was no question of their being able to use a ‘white’ golf course and the championships were played on the courses which were laid out by the golfers themselves on any areas of open veld with sufficient space to accommodate a course, usually only nine holes. These courses inevitably were very rough and ready but they had to make do. Thus when the venue is given as being Kimberley or Bloemfontein, it was the make-do veld courses in those towns that are being referred to. This was until 1960. The Championship that year was scheduled to be played over the brand new Wettonville course on the Cape Flats but, thanks to the efforts of Mr FL Cannon, President of the WPGU, and Mr A Buirski, Captain of Milnerton GC, the club agreed to make their course available. Thus history was made and the SA N-E Championship was played for the first time on a ‘white’ course. This set a precedent and, except for 1969 when the Championship was played over the Athlone course, it was never again not played on a ‘white’ course.
The records of the very early championships are few and far between and scores and venues are often missing. However, the list of he winners from 1949 through to 1972 is complete and some of the results after that are also known. It should not be too difficult to fill in the blank spaces.
What follows is a year-by-year account of the Championships as contained in the pages of SA Golf and in newspaper cuttings surviving in the files of that magazine.
1954 South African Non-European Open Championship, Bloemfontein
The S.A. “Open” Championship at Bloemfontein was taken by L. Khatidi, 74, 75, 77 and 74 (300).
Conditions are never too good for the Non-European players. They do all the work themselves and they are for ever under the shadow of losing their courses - security of tenure being nil - but they get a lot of fun out of the game at a very cheap rate. Many of them are, of course, former caddies.
Good luck to them. They deserve a helping hand.
1956 South African Non-European Championships, Thornhill GC, Cape Flats, Cape Town
The South African Non-European Championship was played on a rough- and-ready course of nine holes at Thornhill, Cape Flats. There were nearly 50 competitors from all over the Union, and the quality of the play was surprisingly good. Winning score was 305, by A. November. Best score was 73 in three places, and this means, excellent golf. Though bogey is 72, the going is rough, with grass greens as unpredictable as an April day in Britain!
It was learnt at the meeting that in the Transvaal there are 32 clubs affiliated to the Non-European Golfing Union with a total membership of over 600.
1956 SA N-E Open Championship Thornhill GC, Cape Flats Comment
THE South African Non-European Golf Championship was played early this month over the nine hole course at Thornhill on the Cape Flats. There were nearly 50 competitors, and they came from Johannesburg, Bloemfontein and Griqualand West, as well as from the Western Province. For the teams championship the Transvaal entered two sides, the Western Province and the Griquas one each.
The course is somewhat rough, as may well be imagined with no funds to speak of, nor any security of tenure. But in places the lies were really good, which is by way of being a tribute to the honorary greenkeeper and his helpers.
That putting is difficult goes without saying. A small space is cleared and top-dressed with sand, but in spite of everything the ball weaves a very wobbly way towards the hole with most putts. With all this in view any player who even rather distantly approximates the bogey of 35 may well place the name "golf" after his name. There were many such players on view.
The distances at every hole are correct. There are only two short holes, and one of them is just about 200 yards in length.
It was inspiring to see the style and quality of the play of many of the contestants. The longest hole on the course is about 450 yards in length. Several of the players, with no help from the wind were close to or over the green with a drive and a No. 4 iron.
In the Transvaal Non-European Golfing Union there are 32 affiliated clubs with a total membership of over 600. Mr. Sid Brews is one of the patrons, and the Johannesburg and Germiston Councils are granting facilities. The players deserve it.
Many fine sets of clubs were on view, whilst thedress and deportment of the players was in every way exemplary.
1960 SA N-E Championship, Wettonville, Cape Town Preview
THE South African (Non-European) Open Championship takes place over a new 18-hole course at Wettonville, situated close to Wetton railway station, Cape Flats, starting on New Year's Day. To Messrs. Rex Walker, Jack Bowie and Dick Hawke the thanks of the players are due for having discovered who were the owners of the land and also for obtaining permission to use the land for a course.The site is an improvement on the old one at Thornhill; it is more accessible and much larger.
The going will be rough in view of the newness of the course, but it is wonderful what the enthusiastic non-European golfers can achieve once they start on any sporting project. Especially with a man like Peter Louw to guide them. He is vice-president of the SA. (Non-Europea) Golf Association, and has been a local golf leader of the non-European players for many a long year. He has been in the fortunate position, too, of travelling around the country and getting the non-Europeans interested in forming clubs and affiliating to the divisional unions.
On Monday, January 4, the Mayor of Cape Town, Mrs. J. Newton Thompson, has agreed to give the players, officials etc., a reception in Woodstock Town Hall, where she will present the prizes. One of the first to be invited was Mr. F. L. Cannon, president of the W.P.G.U., who has taken a great interest in non-European golf.
It is three yeara since the championship was played in the Peninsula. The meeting next month promises to be more successful, in spite of the newness of the course, because of the greater interest in the game throughout the country among the non-Europeans.
Among other fine players it is hoped that Sewsunker Sewgolum (Papwa), who won the Dutch Open at The Hague this year, will be among those present at Wetton.
1961 SA N-E Championship to be Played on a 'White' Course in Natal
It seemes tolerably certain that the South African Non-European Championship will take place early next year over one of the European courses in Natal. Mr. Peter Louw, vice-president of the South African Non-European Golf Union, and the officials of the Natal Non-European body, have been working hard on the preliminary preparation for the tournament, and everything seems "set fair".
The holder of the championship, Sewgolum, wlll find even sterner opposition in Natal than he did this year at Milnerton. In mere numbers, too, the oppostion will be greater. for competitors are coming form all parts of the Union: many more centres will be represented than this year.
As was the case in Cape Town, so also will there be a civic reception for the competitors and officials in Natal. And again Messrs. Rembbrandt will provide mimcrophone and loud speakers for the event.
Many European golfers and officials have already leant a hand in order to ensure success.
1961 Championship at Kloof CC - Admiring the Prizes
Display of the numerous prizes at the Kloof, half-way through the annual South African Non-European Championship tournament: S. Mnisi (assistant sec., S.A. Non European Golf Association), R.A. Earp (hon. secretary, golf section, Umbogintwini Club), Peter louw (vice president, S.A.N-E.G.A.), Mr Westermeyer (United Tobacco Co.), Mr. Soobry (Natal G.A), and another U.T.C representative.
1961 SA Non-European Championships, Kloof CC and Royal Durban
Non-European Championship
As mentioned in last months issue the South African Non-European Open Championship was retained by the Dutch Open champion, Sewsunker Sewgolum (Papwa), a Durban player, who scored, over the Kloof and Royal Durban courses, 297 (75, 73, 76, 73); runner up, former champion Cox Hlapo, 305-he is also the Transvaal champion. Then came P. L. Paul (Durban) and I. Chowglay (W.P.), 307 each; J. L. Semenya (Tvl.), 311; R. T Singh (Umbogintwini), 314.
Papwa also won the Harry Oppenheimer Trophy (first 36 holes), 148. Transvaal (Cox, Semenya, Lee, Mazibulo) won the Drum Trophy (team), 36 holes, with 314, a sroke ahead of Natal, who won the Commonwealth Shield.
The Inter-club team event for the Cannon Trophy was won by the Durban Indian Golf Club (Papwa and Paul). This is a gift of Mr.F.L. Cannon in I959 wh¢n he was president of the Western Province Go1f Union, and it was played for the first time at Milnerton last year. Incidentally Mr. Cannon is also the first European sponsor for the S.A. Non- Europenn Golf Association.
There were only four entrants for the South African Non-European Womens Championship at Umgeni, won by Dr. N. Moeti (Tvl.), 207 for the 36 holes; D. Xaha (Tvl.) was runner-up, 208. The course was not too good, so that the scores do not reflect the ability of these two players. Dr. Moeti is a medial practitioner at Springs and is the wife of Dr.Moeti, well-known medico and golfer.
Better times
So far, in brief, you have been given the results. What remains to be told is probably more imporant. lIt will be remembered that last year the Milnerton Golf Club (Cape Peninsula) started another era in the history f golf in Southern A£rica by offering its course to the South African Non-European Golf Association for the playing of its national championship. The offer was gratefully accepted, and the Association staged by far the most successful tournament in its history, for it was the first time it had ever been held over a good course.
It was predicted then that never again would the Non-European golfers have to play their national championship over one of their own "scratch-about" affairs: tha the European clubs would in every centre be only too willing to offer their courses for this meeting.
It was a wonderfully accurate prediction. With a strong lead by the Natal Golf Union, many affiliated Natal clubs came forward with offers, Umbogintwini being first in the field, the final choice being Royal Durban and Kloof. By marvellous organisation, after the first round, half of the 156 competitors who had played at Look were conveyed by car or bus to Royal Durban, and vice versa, for the second round. It sounded impossible: but it was achieved with no worry at all.
On the second day the 50 qualifiers finished the 72 holes at Kloof. The organisation of the Non-Europeans - under the guidance of that “prince of Non-European golf management", Vice-president Peter Louw (W.P.) - was everything it should be, and every help was received from the Europeans both at Kloof and Royal Durban. In every possible way the players were cared for and made to feel at home. Catering arrangements were everything that could be desired: huge tents and marquees were in use as well as many tables and chairs.
The tournament attracted a very considerable amount of attention. Many leading players, all the local professionals and many golf administrators were amongst those who watched the play. African Consolidated Theatres were also there to take pictures for the cinemas
There were kindly messages from everywhere including a cable from the New Zealand Golf Union and a beautiful shield from the Australian Golf Union.
Exemplary Behaviour
The behaviour of the players was exemplary. Divots were replaced with scrupulous care . . . by the players, the task was not left to the caddies. Both on and off the course the competitors and officials won the admiration of the clubs. Result: There will be strong Natal competition to have the pleasure of being "host" for the next tournament! This will be in about five years time.
It is easy to imagine how grateful the players are for the many kindnesses they received. At the Kloof on the evening of the first day one of the players was asked how the Natal courses compared with those in his own district. "Sir," was the courteous reply, "that is indeed a difficult question to answer. You see, I have never been allowed to play on a European course previously.”
1961 Permit Granted for S.A. Cahmpionship at Kimberley
The South African Non-European Golf Association were hoping to have the pleasure of playing their championship early next year over the Bloemfontein Golf Club’s course. Everything seemed well set: the Bloemfontein Golf Club were willing to place their course at the disposal of the Association: club officials and Free State Golf Union officials had offered every help and encouragement. The only thing missing was the permit from the Government for Non-Europeans to play over a course occupied by European golfers. This permit might well have been granted had it not been for the fact that there is a Free State statute which forbids any Indian from staying overnight in the Province. Thus, and possibly reluctantly, the permit could not be granted.
Arising out of the refusal for the permit is a request from Government circles to the S.A. Non-European Golf Association asking for advice regarding which would be the best centre in which to construct a course for Non-European golfers should a Government department find the money for such a scheme. Maybe behind the proposition is that it would be a good thing if Non-Europeans, had a first-class course of their own over which their national championships could be played every year.
The Non-European golfers are non- racial: their clubs and their unions are determined that there shall be no differentiation between Coloured, lndian and African golfers. In most of their clubs all three races are to be found.
Apparently the problem of the venue for the Non-Europeans' annual championship will not be difficult to solve. The Kimberley Golf Club, which was host club not so long ago for the Griqualand West Non-European Championship, will most likely step into the breach. Warned some time ago by various people that the Non- Europeans might be barred from Bloemfontein and that a request might follow, club captain Mr. Lisle M¢Namara, said he would be only too willing to put forward any request of that sort to his executive.
Latest news is that not only has Kimberley G.C. freely granted the use of its course on January 3, 4 and 5, but permission for the tournament to be held there has been granted by the Department of Community Development. A record entry is expected.
It has been a worrisome time for the officials of the S.A. Non-European Golf Association - especially for vice-president Peter Louw - but with the vast amount of goodwill that has been displayed by all Europeans consulted, the future for Non- European golf is very rosy indeed.
At the S.A. Non-European Championship, Kimberley: Mrs. F . W. Pitman, P.L. Paul (who shared fourth place with Cox Hlapo); Lawrence Butelezi; F.W. Pitman, managing director, Gordon's Dry Gin Co.; A. Maqubela, president, S.A. Non-European Golf Association.
1962 South African Non-European Championship, Kimberley GC
For the third successive year the South African Non-European Championship has heen held over a European course, this month the tournament being played over the course of the Kimberley Golf Club.
And again the Non-European golfers win top marks for the excellence of their play and also for their exemplary behaviour both on and off the course. The Kimberley Golf Club committee and members were kindness itself, for which they received the grateful thinks of their guests. And no matter where the players came from - Transvaal, Border, Eastern Province, West- ern Province: there are now nine member unions of the national body - one and all were deeply impressed with the excellence of the Kimberley course.
Ismail Chowglay (W.P.) won with 72, 74, 74, 77 (297), followed by F. Mazibuko (TvI.), 73, 74, 76, 78 (30l)< and J. Semenga (Tvl.), 79, 72, 72, 79 (302).
Favourites such as Cox Hlapo (Tvl) and Sewsunker Sewgolum (Papwa), of Durban, holder and winner of the Dutch Open twice, did not do too well and finished fifth and eighth, respectively.
The Cannon Trophy was won by Chowglay and F. van Dieman (W.P.), I47: runners-up, F. Mazibuko and O. E. Lee (Tvl.), 150. Transvaal B won the Drum Trophy.
Mr. Alf Magerman, a leading Coloured Free State sportsman, gave R100 to the S.A. Non-European Golf Association. Just previously he had given R300 prize money in promoting the Green Valley open championship at Kroonstad, won by Hlapo.
By no means the least of the energetic and able organizers of the tournament was Mr. Peter Louw, vice-president of the S.A. Non-European Golf Association, to whom much of the credit for the successful tournament is due.
As ever, many people gathered round to give support to the tournament. There was a civic reception at which the Mayor of Kimberley, Mr. G. J. Hugo, presented the prizes. Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Pitman were present all three days, Gordon's Gin Co having provided R300 of the prize money. United Tobacco Co. printed a fine poster for the occasion which was distributed all over the Union, and also gave a trophy. BP printed the special score cards for the championship, as well as printing the badges that served as entry tickets.
- South African Golf: January, 1982
1962 - Preview of 1963 South African Non-European Championship To be Played at Walmer CC, Port Elizabeth
S.A. Non-European Open The open championship meeting of the South African Non-European golfers will be held, by courtesy, on the course of the Walmer Country C1ub, Port Elizabeth, on January 2, 3, ond 4. The programme is a vary comprehensive one. The main item, of course, is the championship, won by I. Chowglay (Western Province) at Kimberley last year, winner to hold the J.M. Jass Floating Trophy; there is also a professional purse of R500, donated by Gordon's Dry Gin Co. Incidentally the floating trophy is named after the founder of the S.A. Non-Europeon Golf Associaton in 1947, Mr. Jass being a very enthusiastic Transvaal golfer. He died in 1953.
Other items: Inter-provincial Teams Championship (Drum Trophy) and the Inter-club Championship (Cannon Trophy). In addition there is the inaugural competition for the Seniors Championship, age limit 55, winner to hold the U.T.C. trophy.
This is the fourth occasion that the Non-European championship meeting has been held over a Non-European course, venues and winners being as follows: 1960, Milnerton, Sewsunker Sewgolum (Natal, known more familiarly as Papwa), who has twice won the Dutch Open: 1961, Royal Durban and Kloof, Sewsunker Sewgolum; and, as mentioned above the meeting was held at Kimberley this year, when Chowglay was the winner.
The most noticeable and pleasure-giving feature about the holding of the national Non-European championship over a decent course - the Non-Europeans have not so far been provided with anything like a championship course, and are quite unable to provide themselves with one - is the willingness of everybody to ensure that annually they are able to play their championship over a course that fits the occasion. Government departments willingly issue permits when assured that all the legal conditions are fulfilled and all golf administrators of national and provincial unions, and of all golf clubs throughout the country are more than willing to make any arrangements they can which give the Non-European golfers their "place in the sun" for the most important fixture in their golfing calendar.
Right: The president of the South African Non-European Golf Association, Mr. Alfred Maqubela, receiving the Castle Breweries Floating Trophy for the Seniors "Teams of Two" event. Handing over the trophy is Mr. Jock Veitch, development officer, African Market, S.A. Breweries, Port Elizabeth. Looking on is Mr. Peter Louw, vice-president of the Association. The first annual competition for the trophy took place at Walmer Country Club last month, and was played concurrently with the South African Non-European Championship.
Above: PAPWA is here seen making his speech in the Feather Market Hall, Port Elizabeth, after his victory at Walmer C.C. for the S.A. Non-European Championship. On the left is Louis Nelson and on the right Des Durow, area manager, Gordon's Gin Co., who sponsored the championship.
- South African Golf: December, 1962
1963 SA N-E Championship to be Played at Walmer CC, Port Elizabeth
S.A. NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Once again the South African Non-European Golf Association, chiefly through the medium Mr. Peter Louw, that organization's vice-president,that whom no one is more dedicated to the game of Golf, has obtained permission to staae its National Open championship on the course of a European golf club.
The championship will be played on the Walmer Country Club's course, Port Elizabeth, on January 2, 3 and 4. Practice would be allowed on the course on December 31 and January 1.
Everybody approached on the matter has been most sympathetic and helpful, including the South African Golf Union and its president and acting secretary, Justice H. E. P. Watermeyer and Mr. V. W. Buckland, respectively; the various governments concerned; the Eastern Province Golf Union and its president, Mr. Reg Bacon; the Port Elizabeth Golf Club; the Humewood Golf Club; and, of course, the "host" club, the Walmer Country Club, for whom Mr. Ben Ryan has been putting in a lot of extra hard work in order to present the course in its best possible condition.
The Mayor of Port Elizabeth (Mr. Monty van der Vyver) will arrange a civic reception in Port Elizabeth for the Non-White golfers and officials who are playing in, and organizing the tournament.
1963 South African Non-European Championship, Walmer CC, Port Elizabeth
For the third time in four years Sewsunker Sewgolum (Papwa,) the Indian of Durban, won the S.A. Non-European Championship at Walmer Country Club. This is the fourth year in succession that the tournament has been held over a European course. After I. Chowglay (W.P.), the holder, had shared the lead after the first round with 74, to equal the course record held by Jimmy Duckworth, well- known Walmer C.C. member, and having taken the lead after the second round, Papwa simply ran away with the championship. A 75 in the third round gave him a lead by three strokes over Chowglay, while a 74 in the last round added another nine strokes to his lead. Chowglay still being the challenger though that is perhaps not quite the right word!
Throughout the tournament Papwa’s chipping was deadly, and most of the time so also was his putting. But it was the approaches and chips that made the putting-count so small. He has won the Dutch Open twice and you cannot do that without ability.
It is true that the ball was not running well for Chowqlay in the last two rounds, time and again the putt were just slipping past, but there was no doubt who was the better man on the day. Papwa was out in 34 in the last round, but neither he nor Chowglay shone in the last nine holes, played in a continuous heavy drizzle.
The leaders: Papwa, 301 (75, 77, 75, 74 - standard scratch is 75); Chowglay, 314 (74, 77, 80, 83); S. Chakane, 316 (75, 84, 75, 82); R. Ditsebe, D. Motati, R. Tiney, 318: A. Mjonkweni, P. Mazibuko, 321: B. Knuna, G. Nelani, J. Mazibuki, 322.
Incidentally the course record of 74 was beaten by two strokes in the second round, P. Nduli going round in 72.
The golf potential is high among the Non-Europeans, and when it so happens that every centre is provided with at least one good course for their regular use the truth of this will quickly be apparent.
What is so remarkable about the play of the two leaders is their grip. Papwa, a right-hander, grips the club with the left hand under the right on the shaft: Chowglay, a left-hander, grips with the right hand under the left. Call it the wrong grip or the reverse grip - what you will - but how well it works with these two golfers.
CONCURRENT EVENTS
Inter-provincial teams (Drum Trophy): Transvaal B. (J. F. Mazibuko 75, R. Ditzebe 77, P. Mazibuko 80. M. Borman 84), 316. Runners-up: Natal A (Papwa and C. Shakana gave the side a fine start with 75's each, but 85's by P. L. Paul and R. Rajdew put the side out by four strokes).
Pairs (Cannon Trophy): Western Province (I. Chowglay 74, P. van Diemen 79, 153; one stroke behinid: Transvaal (J. Mazibuko 75, O. E. Lee 79 - 154).
Seniors, 50 and over, for the S.A. Breweries Trophy: B. Nyendwana (E.P.), 83 and 84 - 167; runner-up: G. Mzuzo (E. London), 174.
Seniors, teams of two, for another S.A. Breweries Trophy: S. Volsatz and D. Peterson (W.P.).
Walmer Country Club presented a course that was at its best. Ben Ryan., captain of the golf section and also the club champion, has brought about a wonderful improvement this past few years. The officials and competitors were delighted with it, as also were they pleased at the manner in which the golf section of the club served them. Everything possible was done to make the meeting a success: food, refreshments and equipment were on hand when required, and a record attendance was most capably catered for. As ever, ladies of the golf section did much to add to the success of the meeting.
THE RECEPTION
Competitors and officials were entertained to a mayoral reception in the Feather Market Hall, among the speakers being Messrs. F. Erasmus, executive member, E.P. Non-European G.A.; Alfred Maqubela, president, S.A. Non-European GA.; D. Durow, representing Gordon's Gin Co., who sponsored the tournament; R. Simpson, vice-president, E.P.G.U.; Ben Ryan, captain of the golf section. Walmer Country Club, over whose course the championship was played. Several speakers paid tribute to Mr. Peter Louw, vice-president, S.A. Non-European G.A., for the admirable manner he had organized the tournament.
Present at the reception were most of the members of the E.P.G.U.: Messrs. Simpson (vice- president), Les Durno (hon. sec. for some years), Denis Whitfield, Dave Cowie and David Barris. And also Tony Hanley, former president for many years. Walmer C.C. was well represented and included was Mr. R. Stopforth, chairman of the golf section.
As was the case on the three previous occasions that the tournament was held on European courses, the behaviour of all the competitors, both on and off the course, was exemplary.
SEWSUNKER (PAPWA) SEWGOLUM is seen here teeing off in the final round of the South African Non-European Championship at Walmer Country Club, Port Elizabeth. He won by 13 strokes from Ismael Chowglay (holder, on the left). S, Dondashe is in the middle. This picture is rendered much more interesting because Papwa's lett- hand-under-right-hand grip is so plainly visible. It is two handed, not overlapping. Call it a "wrong" grip it you like . . . but it is very successful. Nevertheless, Papwa is teaching his children to use the normal grip! (Photograph by A. Doulman, Weimar.)
South African: February, 1963
1964 SA N-E Championship - Offer by Glendower for Use of Course
S.A. NON-EUROPEAN GOLF The Glendower Golf Club, Johannesburg, has offered to the South African Non-European Golf Association the use of its course for their national championship tournament: December 30 for practice, and Jan. 1-3 for the championship. This is subject to the approval of the Govemment.
1964 South African Non-European Championship to be Played at Glendower
Everything is well-set for the championship meeting of the South African Non White Golf Association over the Glendower course, Johannesburg , from December 30 to January 3. The Government has granted permission for the tournament to be held there.
This is the fifth occasion that the championship has been played over a White course, and there is no doubt about the convenience and happiness which has been engendered thereby.
The holder of the title is Sewsunker Sewgolum (Papwa), who won at Walmer Country Club, P.E., early this year. He has been champion on three out of four occasions on which the tournament was played on a White course.
As in all the other cases the Glendower Club is striving hard to ensure another big success for the meeting. No effort is being spared that will add to the comfort of competitors and officials.
1964 South African Non-European Championship, Glendower GC
Over the course of the Glendower Golf Club the former Natal Open champion and twice winner of the Dutch Open, Sewsunker (Papwa) Sewgolum, won the South African Non-European Championship with returns of 71, 72, 70, 75 - 288. Runners-up, 21 strokes behind Papwa: O.E. Lee and J. Semenya, both 309. Since 1960 the meeting has been held over European courses, Papwa having won four times, losing in 1962 when Ishmael Chowglay was the winner at Kimberley.
1964 South African Non-European Championship, Glendower GC
Below: Scene at the presentation of prizes by Mrs. F. W. Pitman, wife of the managing director of the sponsoring firm, after the South African Non-European Championship, Glendower. The championship was again won by Sewsunker (Papwa) Sewgolum. From left to right: O. E. Lee, D. Durow (area manager, Gordon's), Mrs. Pitman, J. Semenya. Right: Scene at the first tee, Glendower, during the play for the South African Non-European Chamnionship, with the scoreboard in the background.
S.A. NON-EUROPEAN TITLE
The field for the S.A. Non-European Championship was a record, and the tournament was played over the course of the Glendower Golf Club, who had not only offered the use of their course but had also gone to a lot of trouble to ensure the success of the meeting and the comfort of the players. The enthusiasm of the players is really intense and they entered from all parts of South Africa.
The large number of entrants tended to make for slow play, and there is great need for steps to be taken to limit the number of players in future. Maybe by imposing a handicap limit.
Glendower had presented a course in fine condition, and this was very much to Papwa’s liking! He won the title once more, this time with scores of 7l, 72, 70, 75 (288). A runaway victory by 21 strokes.
Following Papwa were: D. E. Lee, J. Semenya 309; Ishmael Chowglay 313; Cox Hlapo 315. Representatives of the sponsors, Gordon’s. were pre- sent to give advice. The tournament committee consisted of Messrs. Peter Louw (v.-p.), D. R. Phala (sec./treas.), Louis Nelson (asst. sec. and Papwa’s manager), Samson Mnisi (asst. treasurer).
Prizes were presented (by Mrs. I. W. Pitman) at a civic reception in the Coronationville Hall at which the Mayor of Johannesburg (M. J. F. Oberholzer, M.P.C.) and the Mayoress were present.
The Transvaal Golf Union bore the expense of the hiring and erection of two marquees at Glendower.
1965 South African Non-European Championshiop, Alexander CC, East London
S.A. Non-White Open and Amateur Championships: Open: “Papwa" Sewgolum (holder) an Vincent Tshabalala(Tvl.) tied for the title, both 291. Played at Alexander C.C., East London. Papwa started wnth 77 but didn’t put a foot wrong after that. Ishmail Chowglay (C.T.) was third, 292. Joe Manana (Tvl.) won the amateur title, 311.
1967 South African Non-European Championship to be played at Paarl
MR. PETER LOUW. than whom no golfer anywhere is so dedicated to golf, hon. secretary of the South African Non-White Golf Association, reports that the association's S.A. Championship tournament for 1967 will be held at Paarl, from Monday, January 2, to Saturday, January 7. The attempt was made to have the tournament played over one of the Peninsula courses, and in this Mr W. F. Girdwood, president of the W.P. Golf Union, was most helpful. But the attempt failed because of the great growth of golf which has made it very difficult for the clubs to accommodate the Non-Whites for so long a period.
However, an appeal to the Paarl Golf Club met with success, and the club willingly offered its course, and to provide all the accommodation possible for the comfort of the Non-White otffcials and the competitors. This is the first major Non-White tournament ever to be held over the course, and the association is duly grateful for the permission to play there.
There is every indication that the tournament will be an outstanding success. The best Non-White players in the country will be participating, and this includes the brilliant Sewsunker (“Papwa") Sewgolum, who is bound to attract a huge gallery. But he is indeed not the only "Richmond in the field," and some fine opposition to this player is bound to arise.
It will be remembered that the first S.A. Non-White Championship to be played over a White course took plaee at Milnerton in l960. Since then the national tournaments have taken place in turn on the White courses at Royal Durban, Kimberley, Walmer C C., Glendower, Alexander C.C. and Bloemfontein, and all have been eminently successful. In every way the competitors have shown themselves to be good sportsmen, and the meetings have given much pleasure both to competitors and onlookers.
When the new course at Athlone planned by Robert Grimsdell, has been opened for play perhaps the need for permission to play over White courses will disappear, a favour which players and officials have greatly appreciated. But at Athlone the players will have a grand course to play on, and with better accommodation than they have ever enjoyed. For this the Non-Whites are so very largely indebted to Mr Rex Walker, who has done so much for the Westlake G.C., and who has worked so assiduously to the scheme to provide a first-class course for the Non-Whites. He began the scheme in l957 and has never "let up," no matter what difficulties got in the way. It has taken time, but it has been well worth while.
1967 South African Non-European Championship, Paarl GC
The South African Non-White golfers played for their richest prime at Paarl, the cigarette manufacturers, Cavalla Ltd., having presented a purse of Rl,000 for the S.A. Open Championship meeting, as well as providing extra funds to help with the organization of the tournament.
It was expected that Papwa Sewgolum, the well-known and brilliant Indian golfer, who has won the title so often, as well as winning rich prizes overseas, would again be the victor. And he faithfully realized expectations by leading from the start, and holding it to the end, winning by seven strokes from Chowglay - 282 to 289. Papwa scored 70, 69, 72 and 71 and Chowglay - 74, 74, 70 and 72. S. Mogoerane was third, 302; and Cox Hlapo, four times a previous champion, was fourth, 304.
Played concurrently the inter-provincial teams championship was won by W.P. "A", after a tie with W.P. “B” team, both 313. Previous to the Open the Gary Player Gup had also been won by Papwa with a better average than that scored in the Open. He started with a record 69 and followed it with 71 (140), to beat the runner-up, R. Moguerane (Tvl.), 74 and 7l, by five strokes.
This is the eighth consecutive occasion that the S.A. non-white open has been held over the course of a white golf club.
Previous to the meeting Papwa had also won the Natal Open at Maritzburg C.C. with 288, eight strokes less than R. Rajdaw, the runner-up.
Papwa had been informed by the Department of planning that permission for him to play in White tournaments had been refused. This may prevent him from carrying out his intention to play in the American circuit this year.
Not the least remarkable thing about the tournament is that, probably for the first time in South Africa, a religious service was held for the competitors at a tournament. This took place at the Methodist Church, Athlone, where the pastor, the Rev. H. A. van Eck, and another minister, the Rev. Mr Holmes, conducted the service, and Mr Peter Louw, the national secretary of the S.A. Non-White Golfing Association, read the scripture. The church was filled to capacity. Indeed, extra chairs had to be brought to the church in order to accommodate the congregation.
1968 South African Non-European Championship to be Played at Circle CC
The Circle Country Club has granted permission to the S.A. Non-European Golf Association to hold its annual open championship meeting over its course from January l to January 5 next year. Mr Peter Louw, the national organiser of the Association, reports that he has had a lot of help and offers from various clubs and also from the Natal Golf Union. All round friendliness was the keynote.
1968 South African Non-European Championship, Circle CC
The South African Non-White open championship, played at Circle G.C. - the ninth time that the tournament has been played over a European course - was won by Sewgolum (“Papwa”) with 285, eight strokes less than V. Tshababala (Tvl.). This is Papwa’s sixth victory. Tshababala was runner-up two years ago at Bloemfontein. In third place was Cox Hlapo (Tvl.), a regular competitor who always finishes high up; he won in 1957 and was runner-up six years ago. Rl,000 prize money was offered.
Just previous to the national tournament Papwa also won the Natal championship with 286 to win the K. D. Barnes Trophy. J. Ranjith finished second, 299, after being leader with 147 at the half-way stage, but Papwa’s finish in 69 and 79 was too much for him.
Papwa had already won the Kimberley Open and the St. Michael’s Open.
It appears that the apartheid laws of the land were not confined to matters of black and white. They embraced all races. Thus it was that, Circle CC being in Natal which was nominally a 'black' area, a permit was needed, and obtained from the Department of Planning, "to allow Coloured people, Chinese and Indians to take part in and to watch the event". At the same time non-whites were not allowed to use the clubhouse or any other facilities that were reserved for whites only.
A surprise entry for the 1968 Championship was E W Johnson-Sedibe, winner of the title in 1951 and now living in Germany where he was resident professional at the Verband Club.
1969 South African Non-European Championship, Athlone GC, Cape Town
For the third successive year the S.A. non-White championship, played for the first time over the non-White course at Athlone, Cape Peninsula, was won by “Papwa” Sewgolum, (Natal), who scoréd 295; runner-up A. Hartzenberg (W.P.) 298. The preliminary sponsored event over 18 holes was won by Simon Hlapo (Tv1.) with 71, one stroke less than S. Naidoo (Natal).
1970 South African Non-European Championship, Benoni CC and Ohenimuri CC
Durban Indian, has won the South African non-White Open championship for the eighth time. The first round was played at Benoni and the final three at Ohenimuri Country Club. Papwa’s total of 287 (77, 67, 69, 74) was eight shots better than the 295 (75, 70, 74, 76) of Vincent Tshabala. Third was Richard Mogoerane (300) and J. Ranjith fourth on 302. Papwa won R250 for his efforts.
1971 South African Non-European Championships, Benoni CC
Papwa Sewgolum’s long reign as the South African Non-White golf champion ended on the 72nd green at the Benoni Country Club recently.
Vincent Tshabalala, the long hitting Transvaaler, is the new champion. He beat Papwa by one shot - yet he came so close to losing the title. Tshabalala had a four-shot lead on Papwa going into the third round after a par 71, but Papwa whittled down the lead to a nail- biting finish.
Both had good drives at the last hole. Tshabalala had a tough third onto the green while Papwa was on the edge ofthe green for his second, and was left with a reasonable putt for a four. He missed, and Tshabalala holed to win by one shot.
Final scores: V. Tshabalala 292; S.Sewgolum 293; D. Naidoo 294; R.Nanootal 296; J.Chetty 302; D.Mukwevu 303.
1972 South African Non-European Championship, Kroonstad GC
In a desperately tight finish Capetonian Ishmael Chowglay won the South African Non-White golf title by one stroke, beating the former title holder, Vincent Tshabalala, and Robert Mogoerane (both Transvaal) into joint second place at Kroonstad.
Mogoerane, the overnight leader, missed a half a metre putt at the 18th and final hole to give Chowglay outright victory.
Chowglay had a four round score of 297 (74, 74, 75, 74) and was four strokes better than Mogoerane on the final round. Tshabalala had a par 72 for the best final round, but this was not enough for him to recover from his first round fiasco of 79, which he followed up with a 73 and 74 in the second and third rounds.
Robert Mamashela won the amateur race with a total of 308.