A President's love for golf

REUTERS

SOUTH AFRICAN President Thabo Mbeki took his new love of golf a step further when he hosted and participated in the Presidential Golf Classic in Cape Town. The President's spokesperson, Bheki Khumalo, described the event as one of the "most relaxing" moments for Mbeki.

"It was a very relaxing and most enjoyable day, and one I think will rank as another important milestone in the President's life", said Khumalo after the game.

"The spirit among the participants was excellent. But what really impressed the President was the tremendous support he received from South Africans who came to watch. Even when he hit the windows of some of the homes with his golf balls, they just wanted his autograph."

"I think we should also say a special thank you to all the sponsors who supported this cause to uplift our youth," Khumalo said.

Mbeki invited leaders of the corporate world and a number of his ministers to take part in the tournament. Money raised from the event is to be used for youth golf development and for other youth upliftment projects.

President Mbeki's scorecard was not revealed but his coach, Mervyn Solomons, said the President was making progress.

"I wish his country would leave him alone for a bit. I'd make a good golfer out of him", said coach Solomons.