Nostalgic Divan ready for Maccauvlei
It’s been a year since Divan Gerber won at Maccauvlei Golf Club, and when the Sunshine Big Easy Tour returns there this week he will hunt another trophy for his cabinet.
“Last year I didn’t come with too many expectations and things turned out well. Maybe this year again a similar thing will happen – all I need is a spark to light that fire that I’ve been building,” he said.
And the fire is ready to blaze – Gerber has already taken three top-10 finishes on the Big Easy Tour this year and earned cheques at his last two Sunshine Tour events.
“I know what it takes, especially with the scores these days. I’m lucky that I got to play on this tour last year – it’s given me a lot of knowledge. This season I have been doing much better on the main tour as well, and hopefully this week will bring something special,” he said.
Two months ago, Gerber teed up at the final hole of Big Easy Benoni with a two-stroke lead. After finding a water trap twice at the hole, he eventually signed for a nine. It was enough to take him back to third place and give Riekus Nortje the victory. It’s the kind of experience that humbles a professional.
“I played very well throughout that week. I was a bit unlucky at Benoni, but that’s the kind of thing that keeps your feet on the ground. So it’s not always a bad thing,” said Gerber.
The Bethlehem Golf Club professional will surely be looking to correct that slip with a victory – and the best place to do it would be the scene of his maiden win. More so because of the conditions, which are forecast to be windy and cold. “It’s nice to be here – there are so many good memories. My putting is strong at the moment, and that’s important on these greens.
“I’m very excited to get out there tomorrow. The forecast is for a cold and windy day, and coming from the Free State I’m used to the cold. The wind just makes it more exciting for everyone,” he said.
