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Welcome to the 2019 Nedbank Golf Challenge

by Selwyn Nathan, Executive Director Sunshine Tour

Selwyn Nathan

What's changed for the 39th edition of Africa's Major?
Selwyn: The most significant changes are the new field size, the increase in first-place prize money, and the increase in the Race to Dubai points. All of this puts the Nedbank Golf Challenge in a very unique position as the penultimate tournament on the Race to Dubai and players hoping to make the playoffs.


Tell us your fondest Nedbank Golf Challenge memory?
Selwyn: When Fulton Allem became the first South African to win in 1988. That really opened the floodgates for the South Africans.


What does this tournament mean to South African golf?
Selwyn: This tournament has been the ultimate prize for South African golfers, first just to be able to qualify to play in it, and then to ultimately one day win it. May it continue to be in the dreams of our young golfers in the amateur and professional ranks to one day add their names to the list of greats who have won 'Africa's Major'.


What is the best story Gary Player has told you on the 1st tee?
Selwyn: There have been hundreds of amazing stories over the 40-odd years I have had the pleasure of being around Gary since the start of this incredible tournament. I couldn't pick only one, because there are so many classics. Gary's contribution to South African golf has been invaluable, and so too his ongoing support of the Nedbank Golf Challenge.


How many balls have you lost on the Gary Player Country Club golf course?
Selwyn: I have lost dozens, mostly where there is water involved.


What are you most looking forward to this year's tournament?
Selwyn: I'm looking forward to what I believe will be a very competitive tournament with the leaders on the Race to Dubai being pushed by their nearest challengers at Sun City, and as they compete for that big payday a week later in Dubai.