Unique to South Africa, The Links golf course was
officially opened in November 2000, by owner Dr
Hasso Plattner and course designer, Mr Gary
Player. Created from a previously flat piece of
land, over 700 000 cubic metres of earth was moved
in transforming it into a typical Links style. The
course presents undulating windswept terrain, and
dune-style landscape and is the only such course
in South Africa. Every hole has received detailed
attention to ensure that the overall balance in
terms of length, position of hazards and shot
values are in harmony. As a result, The Links
presents a stern test in all weather conditions.
Set to test the best golfer in every way, The
Links has some extraordinary holes, like the par-3
second, with its bunker in the heart of the
enormous green. Gary Player said, "We included the
bunker to break it up, but the front left of the
green is severely sloped, so the golfer can use
the contours to get the ball near the flag. You
will never be stymied by the trap" Player added.
In a first for South Africa, the tees and fairways
are a mix of four cool season grasses: Kentucky
Blue, Rye, Fescue and Bent, with the greens a
dominant Bent. These grasses allow for the
traditional Pitch and Run shot to be played and
also for the ball to 'chase' along the fairways.
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