SA Golf Glossary
Speak like a local: Essential terms and slang for your trip.
Halfway House
A mandatory 15-20 minute stop after 9 holes for food and drinks. It's a social institution in SA golf.
Kikuyu
A thick, sticky grass common on fairways in SA (especially inland). The ball sits up nicely but grabs the clubface. Requires a steeper angle of attack.
Bermuda / Cynodon
Common grass on greens. Has a distinct grain that affects putt speed and break (into the grain is slow, with the grain is fast).
Fynbos
Indigenous shrubland vegetation found in the Western Cape. Beautiful but dense - usually treated as a lateral hazard (lost ball).
Highveld
The inland plateau region (Johannesburg/Pretoria). Altitude is ~1,700m, so the ball flies ~10-15% further than at sea level.
Sundowner
A drink enjoyed at sunset after the round. An essential part of the day.
Braai
South African barbecue. Many golf events end with a braai.
Robot
Traffic light. Directions to the course might say 'turn left at the robot'.
Now Now
Ideally means 'soon', but can mean anything from 5 minutes to never. 'Just now' means later.
Parkland
Inland courses with tree-lined fairways and lush grass (e.g., Gary Player CC).
Links
Coastal courses built on sandy soil, exposed to wind (e.g., Fancourt Links, Humewood).
Bushveld
Courses located in the bush/safari areas (e.g., Leopard Creek). Often have wildlife on the course.