Golfer Ernie Els Opens First Els Club in South Africa

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(SOUTH AFRICA) -- Star golfer Ernie Els officially opened South Africa's first Els Club at the Copperleaf Estate with homeowners, media and guests invited to be a part of the event at the picturesque estate. Copperleaf, built on land once owned by Els' grandfather, hosts an award winning Els-designed golf course as well as the first Els Club in South Africa and the second in the world.

"This fantastic estate encapsulates in one destination everything I love about family living, from home and leisure to the great outdoors," Els said. "Set in a country club environment, it has a spectacular course that represents a fair and enjoyable test for golfers of all standards and ages."

Els went on to add: "I've been involved in the design and development of numerous courses across the globe but this project has been very close to my heart right from the start. Once Investec Property came on board we knew that with the right partners we could create something unique and that it would be the best place to open the first Els Club in South Africa. I also wanted to provide a challenging course for all golfers that embraces all the facilities and high standards that I've experienced over the years. I'm extremely proud of the Els Club at Copperleaf and judging by the response we've had today, I have good reason to believe that this venue will be extremely popular and highly sought after."

As part of the festivities, several homeowners and invited guests had an opportunity to play the course with Els playing alongside them. After his round, Ernie socialized with the guests and participated in a media session.

"Much to my delight, the golfers enjoyed themselves on the course today and found it to be a strong but fair test of golf," said Ernie. "That's how we designed it, to be enjoyable for golfers of all standards. The new clubhouse and facilities here are second to none. The homeowners at the estate are living out their dreams and that tells me that this is country club living at its finest."

The other Els Club project is in Dubai.