The Road to SA Golf Challenge, spearheaded by Bard Santner, a fast-emerging Zimbabwean financial services firm, has become a landmark event in Harare’s sporting and business circles. Held monthly at the prestigious Royal Harare Golf Club, the initiative transcends traditional golfing tournaments by fostering networking, collaboration, and community engagement among participants.
A Platform for Networking and Growth
Bard Santner’s Director of Wealth Management, Mr. Tatenda Hungwe, explains the event’s broader objectives, highlighting its role in promoting business growth through relationships and shared opportunities.
“The Bard Santner Road to SA Golf Challenge has evolved into more than just a competition; it is a hub for building social capital,” Mr. Hungwe said. “We’ve created a space where industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives can connect, share ideas, and forge strategic partnerships.”
Social capital, he elaborates, refers to the networks and relationships that facilitate mutual growth and cooperation. For Bard Santner, nurturing these bonds aligns with the company’s philosophy of creating transformative value for clients and communities.
An Innovative Tournament Format
Launched in October 2024, the tournament introduced a Medal Stableford format—a hybrid scoring system combining elements of stroke play and Stableford scoring. This approach levels the playing field, ensuring inclusivity and fair competition among golfers of varying skill levels.
Participants vie for prestigious rewards, including all-expenses-paid trips to South Africa’s premier golfing events: the Investec SA Open in Durban and the Nedbank Golf Challenge in Sun City. These coveted prizes not only intensify competition but also encourage consistent participation throughout the season.
Bridging Sport and Business
Beyond the greens, the tournament serves as an invaluable networking tool. “Business transactions thrive on trust and relationships,” said Mr. Hungwe. “By bringing together like-minded professionals in a relaxed setting, we’re enabling connections that drive growth and innovation.”
The event also underscores Bard Santner’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). The company plans to expand its initiatives by nurturing young golfing talent, enhancing accessibility to the sport, and empowering communities through sport-driven programs.
Regional Aspirations
Bard Santner envisions taking the tournament across Southern Africa, using South Africa as a gateway to the broader region. This expansion aligns with the firm’s strategy to position itself as a regional leader in financial services and community engagement.
Upcoming Events
After a brief holiday pause, the tournament resumed on January 18, 2025, with renewed energy and enthusiasm. The next round is scheduled for February 8, 2025, promising another day of spirited competition and networking opportunities.
As Bard Santner continues to blend sport with strategy, the Road to SA Golf Challenge exemplifies the company’s innovative approach to relationship-building, client engagement, and community development. It is a shining example of how sport can be harnessed to create long-lasting social and business impact.
