| Article by St Francis Links |
| PGA -The 2nd oldest tournament in South Africa |
 |
| The PGA Championship was established in 1923, initiated by the South African PGA, which was founded to promote the game throughout the nation. The championship has undergone various formats and changes over the years, adapting to the evolving landscape of professional golf. |
| Historical Highlights |
| The Early Years: The inaugural tournament in 1923 was held at the Royal Johannesburg Golf Club. The early championships were predominantly won by local talent with a strong foundational presence of golfers who would help establish South Africa as a golfing nation. The Locke Era: Bobby Locke’s dominance in the late 1930s solidified the tournament’s prestige. His four victories were crucial in elevating the tournament’s status during a time when golf was gaining popularity worldwide. Post-War Years: The championship experienced growth in the post-war era, with significant contributions from international players who began to participate, further enhancing the competition level. The Rise of South African Golf: The late 20th century saw a remarkable era for South African golfers, particularly with the emergence of stars like Gary Player and Ernie Els, who not only won the PGA Championship but also made their marks globally, significantly boosting interest in the sport at home. |
| Notable Past Champions |
| Bobby Locke: 1935, 1936, 1937, 1940 Gary Player: 1956, 1960 Ernie Els: 1991, 1997 Trevor Immelman: A rising star who notably won the 2008 Masters and has participated in the PGA Championship. George Coetzee: Former champion and regular contender, Coetzee has consistently performed well in national and international events. |
| Recent Years |
| In recent years, the tournament has continued to attract top talent from the Sunshine Tour and international players. The championship serves as an important event on the South African golfing calendar, contributing to the development of golf in the region while celebrating the legacy of its esteemed past. This year, the PGA Championship at St Francis Links is particularly special as it showcases established stars like Christiaan Bezuidenhout, a rising talent with notable international performances as well as past champions Rupert Kaminski and George Coetzee, who brings experience and local fandom to the event. |
 |
| Christiaan Bezuidenhout |
 |  |
| Past Winner: George Coetzee | Defending Champion: Rupert Kaminski |
 |
| With a rich history, significant past champions, and an exciting present, the PGA Championship remains a highlight for golf enthusiasts, golfers and fans in South Africa and beyond. This year’s event promises thrilling competition, excellent sportsmanship, and a celebration of golf’s legacy in the nation. |
 |
| The best players in South Africa and some of those playing abroad will be here next week to challenge each other for the one of the most prestigious prizes in South African golf. Join us for FREE from Thursday to Sunday, 21-24 November as we see who will raise the trophy! Watch the coverage live on SuperSport Saturday and Sunday. |
 |
