Every month we invite golf clubs to contact us to be featured in The Golf Mag. Here we chat with the Club Captain of Somerset West Golf Club, Grant Harris 

How long has Somerset West GC has been around?

Somerset West is one of the oldest golf clubs in the Western Cape. When founded in 1908 there were only two golf clubs in Cape Town, the Cape GC (later Royal Cape) and Metropolitan.

Explain to someone who has never played Somerset West GC what to expect on their first visit?

The golf course has undergone a recent transformation. Golfers experiencing the 'new course' for the first time will be taken aback when, after playing the opening hole, they go through a tunnel under the railway line to find a Links-like course on the other side. The eight new holes in this area are framed by man-made dunes formed by 80 000 cubic metres of sand donated by AECI from their nearby industrial site on the False Bay coastline. Previously, the railway line between Somerset West and Bellville divided the 18 holes spread over three separate segments. The furthest segment of land was sold in order to finance the redesign, reduce the overall footprint, and improve security. Today, Somerset West is a course of two 'halves', an older parkland type layout around the clubhouse, and the links experience.

Any other changes, apart from the extensive course transformation?

Beyond the course itself, we've recently upgraded our halfway house, bar and clubhouse facilities, and our new function hall is opening soon. Together, these make Somerset West Golf Club an ideal venue for any function or golf day, and a must-stop on any golf tour.

Somerset West GC is a golf club with country club facilities. Apart from golf, what other attractions are there?

Members and visitors can also enjoy tennis, bowls and squash, with padel courts set to open in 2027, making it a true hub for sport and family.

How long have you been club captain and how did that journey come about?

I am in my second year as captain. I have a huge passion for Somerset West Golf Club and my only goal is to make SWGC the best it can be for our members, and in doing that take the club to new heights. Myself and the committee have made vast improvements at the club, including in-sourcing food and beverage and making huge modernising improvements to our function hall.

Tell us about your wider role as Club Captain and how often do you play?

I'm involved in most aspects of our club, this includes monthly feedback to members, doing prizegiving, overseeing of projects, assisting committees in their various portfolios and liaising with members. I play golf on Wednesdays and Saturdays in our members competition days and play off a 10 handicap.