BY NTOKOZO MAGONGO
MBABANE – Representing Eswatini on the greens.
Eswatini’s professional golfer, James Pennington, will tee off at 8:10 AM in the prestigious E2 million Mediclinic Invitational tournament. The event begins Thursday and runs until Sunday, January 16-19, 2025. Pennington, the sole Liswati in the competition, will compete against 126 international golfers in this Sunshine Tour event.
Pennington is set to start his campaign alongside South African golfers Jordan Duminy and Tyran Snyders. The defending champion, Ryan Van Velzen, will also participate, alongside players from countries such as Zimbabwe, England, Greece, and Zambia, among others.
The tournament will take place at the Heron Banks Golf & River Resort in South Africa. This modern 18-hole, par-71 course, designed by Danie Obermeyer, stretches over 6.6 kilometers along the Vaal River. Nestled between the Free State and Gauteng Provinces, the course features stunning natural vegetation, scenic riverfront views, and a variety of wildlife, including the renowned Blue Heron.
Heron Banks is known for its immaculate greens, fairways, and a top-tier driving range and putting green, making it a challenging yet picturesque venue for this high-stakes tournament.
Pennington, a Sunshine Tour player since the 2018/19 season, has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the greens. His participation in this tournament reinforces his standing as one of Eswatini’s premier golfers.
Tee-Off Time Highlights
- 8:10 AM:
- Jordan Duminy (South Africa)
- Tyran Snyders (South Africa)
- James Pennington (Eswatini)
As the tournament unfolds, Pennington will aim to make a strong impression and showcase Eswatini’s talent on an international stage. Golf enthusiasts from around the world will be watching as he takes on some of the sport’s finest players at this world-class venue.
