The annual Legends Golf Day took place on Thursday, 11 June at Belmont Golf Club, bringing together OKs, parents, staff, sponsors and friends of the College in support of the Legends Fund.

Held on a beautiful winter’s day in Makhanda, the event carried added significance this year. Just a week earlier, severe weather had swept through the region, causing widespread damage and leaving many uncertain whether the day would be able to proceed.

Thanks to the remarkable efforts of the Belmont Golf Club community, however, the course was ready to welcome players. Roads were repaired, debris cleared, and damaged infrastructure rebuilt after heavy rains caused significant flooding across the property, including the loss of a bridge at the 14th fairway.

The spirit of community that made this possible was recognised during the evening by Belmont Golf Club President Algie Bouwer (OK 1982) and past President Warren Henry, who acknowledged the many individuals who gave their time and energy to restoring the course. Many of those who rolled up their sleeves in the days following the storm were present at the prize-giving and auction.

Their efforts were not lost on those gathered.

In small communities, we often rely on a few people who step forward when they are needed most. The Legends Golf Day was a reminder of just how much can be achieved when people come together around a common purpose.

While Belmont is well known for providing a stern test of golf, particularly for visitors unfamiliar with its unique layout, the day was never solely about scores and standings. It was about a community rallying around a cause. From those who donated auction items and sponsored prizes, to the volunteers, organisers and players themselves, every contribution helped create an event that continues to make a meaningful difference.

Superbly organised by Gregg Rippon (OK 1983), the Legends Golf Day remains one of the key fundraising initiatives supporting the Legends Fund. The Fund provides financial assistance to deserving young people, helping to open Kingswood’s doors to families who may otherwise not have access to a Kingswood education.

Special thanks must also go to the Belmont Golf Club team for hosting us, as well as Amy Webster (OK 2008) and Jess Birch (OK 2002) for their expert help throughout the day. Additionally, we would like to acknowledge Ian Sheard, who has run the auction for several years and is a key ingredient to its success!

The online auction once again enjoyed strong support from donors and bidders alike, adding an important dimension to the day’s fundraising efforts. Together with the golf day itself, the auction reflects the generosity of a community committed to creating opportunities for others. As a school, we cannot express our gratitude enough for all these efforts.

The prize table was equally well supported, with 13 four-balls, five nearest-the-pin prizes and several additional awards donated by supporters. It ensured there was plenty to play for throughout the day and contributed to the atmosphere for which the event has become known.

The golf was contested in a Four-Ball Alliance format, with two scores to count and 100% of course handicaps applied. Congratulations to this year’s leading teams:

1st: Richard Fincham, Ryan Friderichs, Roger Walsh and Morne Sweeney – 86 c/i
2nd: Jamie and Megan Renton, Brandon Handley and Gill Handley – 86 c/o
3rd: Anton and Tanya Annandale, Jason van Rooyen and Andrew Bovey – 83
4th: Warne Rippon, Gregg Rippon, Algie Bouwer and Sid Meyer – 76
5th: Dave Duncan, Megan McCallum, Geoff Bladen and Justin Stretton – 75

Most importantly, however, the day served as a reminder of what can be achieved when a community comes together in support of young people and their futures.

To everyone who sponsored, donated, organised, volunteered, played, bid and supported the Legends Golf Day in any way, thank you. Your generosity continues to help create life-changing opportunities through the Legends Fund at Kingswood.

A special photo taken on the night of past-Presidents of the Old Kingswoodian Club with its current President, Chris Hobson (OK 1990), and College Head, Leon Grove.

From left: Ross Purdon (OK 1979), Chris Hobson (OK 1990), Johnno Miller (OK 1979), Leon Grove (College Head) and Colin Stirk (OK 1979)

Photos from the day