The benefits of hosting a tour event (2023 Joburg Open) are evident at Houghton which is in superb condition. Attention to detail and presentation of the course is remarkable given the challenging weather maintenance teams have faced in Gauteng. The putting surfaces roll true and fast. The bunker project has paid dividends and consistency is excellent. The par 5s are interesting (3, 5, 10 and 15) and provide birdie opportunities if you can play to the correct portions of the greens. It was astonishing to watch the tour pros play No 15, a par 5 for members, as a par 4 in the Joburg Open, and hit as little as an 8-iron for their seconds. No 16 is an excellent downhill par 3 towards the clubhouse. Houghton’s service levels are outstanding.
