The Sunshine Tour goes back to a northern neighbour this week for the playing of the Mopani Zambia Open at Nkana Golf Club.

Situated just a few kilometres from the centre of Kitwe, the second largest city in Zambia, the Nkana course was constructed by one of the copper mining companies not long after exploration began in the area in the mid-1930s. It is currently under the ownership of Mopani Copper Mines.

Mark Wiltshire upgraded the course when he renovated the layout in advance of it hosting the Zambia Open in 2014 and 2015.

The main thrust of the upgrade was the installation of an automated irrigation system (involving the construction of four new dams on holes eight, 11, 15 and 18) and the lengthening of the course by adding a few new tees.

Bunker drainage was also addressed, with railway sleepers inserted in the face of some of these sand hazards for stabilisation and aesthetic appeal.

It is a tranquil haven for members. It’s flat, heavily treed, and virtually every hole is in its own quiet world. Small, raised greens give it an old-fashioned look, and increase the scoring challenge, as do numerous doglegs.

The par four 18th, previously an innocuous hole, now has a magnificent water hazard guarding the green, and complements the refurbished clubhouse which overlooks it.

DID YOU KNOW?

• The last player to win at Nkana Golf Club is Daniel van Tonder, who took the title in 2019. COVID-19 interrupted the tournament which returns this year.
• The tournament was first played at Nkana in 2014, when Wallie Coetsee won at 15-under by one stroke from Justin Harding and Daniel van Tonder.
• Wallie Coetsee and Andre Nel played their final round in 2019 in one hour, 47 minutes. Coetsee carded a five-over 77 and Nel a six-over 78.