Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Course

Gazing across the manicured greens, can you imagine the echoes of history whispering through the fairways of Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Course? This isn’t just a golf course. It’s a living testament to over a century of South African golfing history. Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Course stands as a prestigious landmark, a product of a unique merger. In 1998, the Royal Johannesburg Golf Club and the Kensington Golf Club merged, creating this golfing haven. This fusion brought financial stability, modern facilities, and a strong membership base. The sale of the Kensington property financed the impressive clubhouse and two distinct courses we see today. The original Johannesburg Golf Club was founded in 1891, settling on this very land in 1909. It was granted the Royal Charter in 1931. A century later, in 1991, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews sent representatives to the club’s centennial celebration. Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Course played a crucial role in the development of golf in the Transvaal region. Its members founded the Transvaal Golf Union, overseeing it for 25 years. A trophy from 1895, originally awarded at the “Christmas Tournament,” is still presented today as the “Challenge Cup” to the top regional amateur golfer. In 1930, the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VIII, graced the course with his presence. He later became the club’s patron, leading to King George V bestowing the “Royal” prefix upon the club’s name in 1931. Foreseeing the need for expansion, the club acquired a farm to the east in 1933. Just two years later, club professional Robert Grimsdell had constructed an additional 21 holes. By March 1939, the current clubhouse and the East and West courses were officially opened. The East Course boasts a remarkable distinction. Its 10th and 11th holes are reputedly the two longest consecutive par-fours globally. This course is also home to prestigious tournaments, including the South African PGA Championship and the Joburg Open. The West Course, designed by Laurie Waters in 1909 and later redesigned by British architect Major Hotchkin in 1929, offers its own unique charm. Its signature 4th hole features a tributary of the Jukskei River running along the left side of the fairway, creating a scenic challenge against the backdrop of Linksfield Ridge. Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Course has garnered numerous awards, including being the first Audubon-certified golf course in South Africa in 2005. The East Course was named Africa’s and South Africa’s best course in 2018 by the World Golf Awards. So, as you stand here, at Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Course, remember, you’re not just playing a round of golf. You’re walking through history, a testament to the enduring spirit of this remarkable club.