Sports Reporter
A blustery wind greeted the more than 100 golf players who gathered for a day of sport and charity at the University of the Western Cape’s (UWC) Cape Town Golf Dayrecently.
The event, hosted by the University’s Department for Institutional Advancement at the King David Golf Club in Mowbray, brought together avid golfers, local business people and philanthropists – all aiming to raise funds for the #AccesstoSuccess campaign.
The campaign focuses on providing much-needed funding to students performing well academically but with historic debt that makes it impossible for them to graduate and join the world of work..
In its 47th year, the support every year at both the Johannesburg and Cape Town Golf Days is overwhelming, says Vera Adams, Manager of Donor Relations and Fundraising.
She said this year’s event was especially poignant as it honoured Melissa Maans, long-term coordinator of the UWC golf days who passed away unexpectedly on 13 October 2023.
Beyond the competitive swings, the main objective of the day was fundraising. Through entry fees, donations and sponsorships, the event successfully raised R242 000, surpassing the previous year’s records.
The business sector continues to play an important role, with Pro Events as the Platinum sponsor for the Golf Day. Edward Beeka, Head of Operations at Pro Events, said: “We are proud of our distinct culture and strongly embedded ethical values with an uncompromising commitment to transforming society. We have embarked on collaborative initiatives with UWC to promote equality and opportunities for greater inclusivity.”
The Primary Sponsors were Securitas.
Vera also thanked the various sponsors for the waterholes and the numerous prizes that were donated. As the sun set on a day filled with good sportsmanship, laughter and generosity, UWC Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tyrone Pretorius, expressed his extreme gratitude to all participants and sponsors.
An exciting prize giving culminated in an impromptu auction with some vigorous bidding. Louis Mkhethoni, CEO of Securitas, issued a call to establish “The Melissa Maans Memorial Fund” and for all proceeds of the auction to go to the fund, which will support students.
He also committed R3000 towards the fund. A special thank you goes to Imas Finance, who sponsored the Golf Day commemorative T-shirt.
This year’s champions were Jaftha Benjamin and Baldwin Kock from SA Quantum.
INSIDE EDUCATION
