Royal Cape in its long history has likely staged more professional tournaments, including 10 SA Opens, than any club in this country, and even though at 6 220m it is stretched to its limit, every year it continues to provide an excellent examination for Sunshine Tour pros, currently at the Cape Town Open which began in 2012. The scoring average was lower than usual (71.07) but the south-easter was kind. Royal has the best greens in Cape Town in terms of design, roll and speed, and they are testing in summer. This year they looked softish yet had to be watered after hot days. Royal should be a par 71 layout. The Sunshine Tour played the 435m 11th as a par 5 and the third (492m) as a par 4. The shorter hole averaged 4.35 into the prevailing wind, and the third 4.28 downwind. Both should be 4s for members and pros.
