All the latest news and stories from the world of golf, Ernie Els Design, Ernie Els Wines, and across Ernie’s philanthropic interests.

1. Win No.77 for Ernie
Ernie registered his 77th professional career win at last week’s Principal Charity Classic at Wakonda Club, Des Moines, Iowa. Ernie opened with a 10-under par 62 and went on to set a tournament scoring record of 195, 21-under par. It was his fourth win on the PGA Champions Tour. 

Speaking on Sunday evening, Ernie said: “Thank you to everyone involved in the tournament, the fans and the sponsors. It’s a very special feeling to win again. I haven’t won for a while. I’ve had quite a few chances, but it gets tougher when you don’t get it over the line. I think I was just more ‘into it’ this week. We had a game plan, I stayed in the present and didn’t get ahead of myself. When you haven’t won in such a long time, you can easily get a bit antsy, but I felt comfortable; I didn’t get rattled when I hit a bad shot or faced an important putt. I was just in the zone. All week I felt like I played within myself, just focused on taking care of the small stuff, and when you do that well, it usually leads to a good week, so yeah, really pleased with how this one turned out. 

“This now is hopefully a stepping stone. We’ll keep working hard and I’m looking forward to the rest of the season. The guys out here are very competitive and, on the type of golf courses that we play, it’s hard to separate yourself over three rounds; you have to stay in it for 54 holes and these past few years I haven’t really done that. When I joined the Champions Tour I always felt like I wanted to get into a winning frame of mind. Let’s see how we go. Golf is still my first love. Ever since I was a kid I’ve wanted to play at this level and I still do. I’m 54, I love the Tour, I just want to keep going and keep getting better.”

Click here to see the full list of Ernie’s career wins.

2. Golf course construction in full swing at OLEADA
One of Ernie Els Design’s most exciting golf course design projects, which will be a star feature of a spectacular new oceanfront resort community on Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, is now under construction. OLEADA Golf Links Los Cabos, named rather fittingly after the Spanish word for wave, is expected to open for play some time in 2026. 

Greg Letsche, senior design associate at Ernie Els Design, was on site at the end of May. His images show that the process of ‘rough shaping’ is progressing extremely well. This desert-meets-ocean setting with its vast natural dunes and expansive horizons, is a dream location for any golf course designer. Ernie is understandably thrilled with the opportunity. 

“I’d say this is probably the most dramatic natural site that our firm has ever had the pleasure of working with,” commented Ernie after a first visit. “We’re only 15 minutes’ drive from downtown Cabo San Lucas, but there’s an untamed beauty to this landscape. When you’re here, you can feel the heartbeat of the ocean. It’s like a private paradise.”

Ernie goes on to say, “We want the footprint and hole-routings of our design to harmonise with its environment. The native contours and natural dune formations are so good that we can create sheltered valleys and corridors that are perfect for the placement of golf holes, without the need for earthmoving on a dramatic scale. It’s all there for us, courtesy of Mother Nature.”

Along with the Ernie Els Design golf course, OLEADA will offer oceanfront living; world-class resorts; a nursery, orchard and garden; nature, fitness, hiking and biking trails; and much more. Every amenity will be created through a hospitality and wellness centered mindset aimed to provide opportunities to enjoy life at its fullest.

Visit the website: https://oleadaloscabos.com/

3. Ernie launches his new-look official website
After some quiet creativity behind the scenes, Ernie and his team this month launched a brand new official website. “I think it better reflects this stage of my life,” explains Ernie. “Obviously, tournament golf remains my main focus and passion. But life for me now is about so much more – from golf course design, various business interests and, of course, our charitable endeavours. It’s all covered in the new website.”

4. “Lido Lakes is going to be a new go-to destination for golfers” says Ernie
Further new images from one of Ernie Els Design’s most exciting new projects, Lido Lakes in Sukabumi, West Java, Indonesia, provide a taste of what’s to come at this spectacular golf course which opens for play later this year. “I was seriously impressed when we first visited some years back,” commented Ernie. “For a golf course designer, these are the kind of settings you love to work with. There are some truly breathtaking holes. All of us are excited about this one and we believe Lido Lakes is going to be a new go-to destination for golfers in south east Asia.”

The golf course is nearing completion and it is anticipated that it will officially open for play during 2024. Ernie went on to say, “it’s exciting that our firm’s first design in Indonesia is on such a great piece of land. That allowed us to create a great golf experience, but also offer tremendous views over the surrounding mountains and valleys. Everything is looking great. For Greg, myself, and everyone on the team, that feeling of seeing a design come to life never gets old. The guys have done an incredible job.”

For more information on Lido Lake Resort, please visit the official website: https://www.lidolakeresort.com/

5. Father’s Day Special for 2022 Major Series Cabernet Sauvignon
The team at Ernie Els Wines is pleased to announce that its latest release, the 2022 Ernie Els Major Series Cabernet Sauvignon, has been awarded a Silver Medal (92 points) in the International Wine Challenge. To commemorate Father’s Day on June 16, this vintage is presented in complementary gift box and is available to purchase in the winery’s online store.

Ernie Els Wines’ head winemaker and managing director Louis Strydom reveals some of the secrets of his success with this vintage…

“My wine making techniques evolve with every vintage and 2022 proved no different. With this vintage, I experimented with various maturation vessels for the Cabernet Sauvignon: primary fermentation in Nico Velo concrete tanks, followed by secondary fermentation in terracotta amphorae and oak barrels. The terracotta achieved a purity of fruit flavour, exuding minerality and flintiness, whilst the French oak provides structure and mid pallet allowing for decades of ageing.”

Purchase online for R350 at: www.ernieelswines.com/majorseriescabernetsauvignon. Free delivery for all local orders over R500. This vintage has also been certified as Vegan by V-Label.

The post Ernie Els Group Newsletter – June 2024 appeared first on Ernie Els.

We’ve just finished-up here at the Principal Charity Classic and obviously it’s been a great week. Thank you to everyone involved in the tournament, the fans and the sponsors. It’s a very special feeling to win again. I haven’t won for a while. I’ve had quite a few chances, but it gets tougher when you don’t get it over the line.

You know, I think I was just more ‘into it’ this week. We had a game plan, I stayed in the present and didn’t get ahead of myself. As I said, it’s tough when you haven’t won in such a long time, you can easily get a bit antsy, but I felt comfortable; I didn’t get rattled when I hit a bad shot or faced an important putt. I was just in the zone. All week I felt like I played within myself, just focused on taking care of the small stuff, and when you do that well it usually leads to a good week, so yeah, really pleased with how this one turned out. 

This now is hopefully a stepping stone. We’ll keep working hard and I’m looking forward to the rest of the season. The guys out here are very competitive and, on the type of golf courses that we play, it’s hard to separate yourself over three rounds; you have to stay in it for 54 holes and these past few years I haven’t really done that. When I joined the Champions Tour I always felt like I wanted to get into a winning frame of mind. Let’s see how we go. Golf is still my first love. Ever since I was a kid I’ve wanted to play at this level and I still do. I’m 54, I love the Tour, I just want to keep going and keep getting better. 

As you may have noticed, we have a new website! The team have been working hard behind the scenes in the off-season and we’re delighted with the results. I think this new website better reflects this stage of my life. Obviously, tournament golf remains my main focus and passion. But life for me now is about so much more – from golf course design, various business interests and, of course, our charitable endeavours. We hope you like it and that you’ll visit regularly to catch up on all our latest news. You’ll notice there’s a tab on the homepage that allows you to sign-up for our regular newsletter. 

You can keep tabs on my playing schedule here on the website. We update it on a regular basis as the season unfolds, basically once I’m committed to a tournament. There’s also a page dedicated to my equipment in ‘What’s in the Bag’. For the trivia buffs among you, there’s also a complete list of my tournament wins and career highlights. 

Ernie Els Design has a prominent showing on the new website. We’ve got some exciting news in the pipeline and I’ll be able to share that with you soon. In the meantime, I’d invite you to take a tour of our existing portfolio of golf courses. They’re spread far and wide across the globe, in locations as diverse as rain forest and desert, and our relatively young firm’s success is a source of enormous pride for me and the rest of the team. 

The descriptions and photos in the new section on Ernie Els Wines beautifully illustrate what’s on offer at our winery. Have a virtual browse. Hopefully one day we’ll be able to welcome you in person. This year the team at the winery launched a new online store rewards program called ‘Easy Bucks’ so when you start shopping you’ll start earning rewards immediately.

Also on the homepage you’ll see display banners for our Els for Autism charity golf series in the US and in South Africa. As always, the team have done a really great job putting together a schedule of tournaments at some wonderful venues. Amazingly, we’re now into our 14th year of the Golf Challenge in the US and the fundraising total exceeds $30 million. That’s just incredible. Thank you so much to our partners, participating golfers and donors. Every dollar and cent is helping change the lives of individuals and families affected by autism. 

Okay, that’s it for now. We’ll see you on here again soon I hope! 

The post Ernie’s Latest News – 2 June appeared first on Ernie Els.

All the latest news and stories from the world of golf, Ernie Els Design, Ernie Els Wines, and across Ernie’s philanthropic interests.

1. Ernie announces ambitious new designs on Zimbali Lakes in South Africa
Ernie Els has signed a deal with Kuwait Stock Exchange-listed IFA Hotels & Resorts to create a golf course and associated facilities at the R10 billion Zimbali Lakes development on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. It will include an Ernie Els Signature Golf Course, Els Performance Golf Academy, Ernie Els Suites, an apartment development linked to the golf academy for around 200 students, and a Big Easy Bar & Grill. This combination of facilities is the first such set-up by Ernie and his award-winning design firm on the African continent and is expected to boost golf tourism to South Africa.

“We are excited to partner with Zimbali Lakes and IFA Hotels & Resorts as we share like-minded ambitions and values,” commented Ernie. “What we’re creating here is going to be very special indeed. This is a perfect opportunity for us due to Zimbali Lakes’ location, close to the King Shaka International Airport, and also with some of the best schools in South Africa in close proximity.”

Speaking of the wider virtues of this area, Ernie went on to say, “Ballito has more gated communities per square metre than any other area in South Africa, which boasts many high-end properties that others around the world would love to call home. Club Med choosing to develop just north of Ballito indicates that this will now become an international destination, and with that comes huge international investment opportunities and exposure.”

Ernie also announced that he will set-up a home at Zimbali Lakes. “Many people will know that my primary home is in Florida, however my family will always call South Africa home,” he commented. “Being able to spend time in a quality location such as this, where security, privacy, and lifestyle come first, is not too hard a decision. Also, the mild weather conditions on the north coast during the winter months will be perfect to spend time with my family and friends here.”

Wayne Krambeck, senior vice-president of operations at Zimbali Lakes, added, “Ernie building at the estate is one of the most exciting aspects of our relationship with him. He knows this is one of the hottest property markets in South Africa at the moment.”

Werner Burger, CEO of IFA Hotels & Resorts South Africa, said the deal marks a turning point for the golf tourism industry in the country and the continent. “We are pleased to announce our partnership with the Ernie Els Group. This collaboration will strengthen our position in the market and enable us to provide enhanced lifestyle solutions and services to our residents, visitors to the region and to South Africa as a whole. By combining our expertise and resources, we will drive innovation, customer satisfaction, and business growth.”

“We believe this will be a great fit that will benefit everyone,” commented Ernie. “Around 20 years ago, I had initial discussions with Mr Burger about doing a project together so I was pleased when he approached me about the opportunity at Zimbali Lakes. We believe this will probably be one of the last golf course residential developments to be constructed in South Africa.”

For more information on Ernie Els Design, visit the website: https://ernieels.com/design/about-design/

2. Seven major champions chip-in to help raise $800,000 for Els for Autism
Ernie welcomed 17 of his fellow tour professionals, combining for a total of 17 major championships between them, alongside 58 amateurs for a day of fun and fundraising at this year’s annual Els for Autism Pro Am. As is customary at this event, a pairings party and dinner took place the previous evening at The Els Center of Excellence, with the great Jack Nicklaus in attendance. This was followed by golf the next day at the splendid Old Palm Golf Club in nearby Palm Beach Gardens, a golf course designed by Raymond Floyd who was part of the stellar line-up of tour pros playing that day. By the end of proceedings, an impressive $800,000 had been fundraised, with every cent and dollar going to The Els for Autism Foundation. 

Writing on social media later that evening, Ernie commented “Sending my personal thanks to all the participants and sponsors who made our latest Els for Autism Wine Spectator Cigar Aficionado Pro Am such a special day. Once again, we are humbled by the spirit of kindness and generosity that contributed to another incredible fundraising total. And special thanks to my friends at NetJets for their continued support for Els for Autism and the incredible work being done to help children with autism and their families. This is life-changing and our life’s work.”

For more information on Els for Autism, including details of how to donate, please visit the official website: https://www.elsforautism.org/

3. Construction begins at Oleada Golf Links on Mexico’s Baja peninsula
This Ernie Els Design course will form part of a new 860-acre oceanfront resort community on the southern point of Mexico’s Baja peninsula. This spectacular parcel of land has an intricate maze of windswept dunes and sandy ridges, which offer sheltered valleys and winding corridors, ideal for the placement of golf holes. Ernie, a two-time winner of the Open, has a special fondness for links golf and a deep knowledge of how seaside breezes dictate shot values and strategy. 

“Mother Nature did a great job here, so our vision is to build a golf course that harmonizes with its environment,” commented Ernie. “Because the native contours and dune formations are so good, very little earthmoving will be required. With its rolling dunes, elevation changes and majestic desert-meets-ocean setting, I believe we can produce a versatile test that will rank among the best and most beautiful courses we’ve ever built.”

Along with the golf course, OLEADA will offer: oceanfront living; world-class resorts; a nursery, orchard and garden; nature, fitness, hiking and biking trails; and much more. Every amenity will be created through a hospitality and wellness centered mindset aimed to provide opportunities to enjoy life at its fullest.

“Alongside introducing OLEADA to the world, we are honored to announce a spectacular championship course by Ernie Els, one of golf’s greatest players,” said Federico Gaxiola, project director at OLEADA Pacific Living & Golf. “As we create a destination founded in responsible luxury, we selected Ernie because of his true understanding of sustainable development and sound environmental practices.” 

The course is due to be finished in 2026 and will be open to the public from day one. To learn more about OLEADA Pacific Living & Golf, visit oleadaloscabos.com.

For more information on Ernie Els Design, including a full list of the golf courses in the firm’s expanding portfolio, visit the website: 

4. Ernie announced as a captain’s assistant for the 2024 Presidents Cup
Mike Weir has selected Ernie as one of his captain’s assistants for the International Team at this year’s Presidents Cup, which will be played at The Royal Montreal Golf Club in Canada for the second time in the event’s history. Ernie will be alongside fellow captain’s assistants Trevor Immelman, Geoff Ogilvy and Camilo Villegas. 

Writing on social media after the announcement, Ernie commented: “I’m really looking forward to being a captain’s assistant to @mweirsy for the @presidentscup in September at The Royal Montreal Golf Club. This wonderful competition has been a big part of my life ever since I played my first match almost 30 years ago. It’s an intense and enjoyable week and I love being a part of it. Our international team has an incredible spirit; we’re all determined to give it our maximum effort and see if we can win it for Weirsy on his home turf!”

Ernie played in eight Presidents Cup teams between 1996 and 2013: Played 40, Won 20, Lost 18, Halved 2. Ernie then went on to captain the Internationals at the 2019 Presidents Cup in Australia. 

5. Sometimes the best things come to those that wait!
The team at Ernie Els Wines is pleased to announce that its 2014 Ernie Els Signature Cape Bordeaux Red Blend has achieved a Top-10 result in this year’s 10-Year-Old Wine Report convened by Winemag.co.za in association with Amorim Cork. It is proof once more of the skills of the winery’s long-standing winemaker, Louis Strydom, and his ability to produce wines of such quality that they will gracefully age for a decade or more.

Tasting Notes: ”The 2014 vintage was matured for 20 months in barrel, 80% new. Red and black berries, violets, some leafiness and earth on the nose. The palate is full but balanced. Impressive depth of fruit and fresh acidity before a savoury finish. Plenty of detail.”

We still have some bottles of the 2014 vintage in our cellar and available to purchase, but you may have to act fast! Please feel free to contact us at: https://ernieelswines.com/shop

The post Ernie Els Group Newsletter – April 2024 appeared first on Ernie Els.

Ernie Els has signed a deal with Kuwait Stock Exchange-listed IFA Hotels & Resorts to create a golf course and associated facilities at the R10 billion Zimbali Lakes development on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast.

Zimbali Lakes will include an Ernie Els Signature Golf Course, Els Performance Golf Academy, Ernie Els Suites, an apartment development linked to the golf academy for around 200 students, and a Big Easy Bar & Grill. This combination of facilities is the first such set-up by Ernie and his award-winning design firm on the African continent and is expected to boost golf tourism to South Africa.

“We are excited to partner with Zimbali Lakes and IFA Hotels & Resorts as we share like-minded ambitions and values,” commented Ernie. “What we’re creating here is going to be very special indeed. This is a perfect opportunity for us due to Zimbali Lakes’ location, close to the King Shaka International Airport, and also with some of the best schools in South Africa in close proximity.”

Speaking of the wider virtues of this area, Ernie went on to say, “Ballito has more gated communities per square metre than any other area in South Africa, which boasts many high-end properties that others around the world would love to call home. Club Med choosing to develop just north of Ballito indicates that this will now become an international destination, and with that comes huge international investment opportunities and exposure.”

Ernie also announced that he will set-up a home at Zimbali Lakes. “Many people will know that my primary home is in Florida, however my family will always call South Africa home,” he commented. “Being able to spend time in a quality location such as this, where security, privacy, and lifestyle come first, is not too hard a decision. Also, the mild weather conditions on the north coast during the winter months will be perfect to spend time with my family and friends here.”

Wayne Krambeck, senior vice-president of operations at Zimbali Lakes, added, “Ernie building at the estate is one of the most exciting aspects of our relationship with him. He knows this is one of the hottest property markets in South Africa at the moment.”

Werner Burger, CEO of IFA Hotels & Resorts South Africa, said the deal marks a turning point for the golf tourism industry in the country and the continent. “We are pleased to announce our partnership with the Ernie Els Group. This collaboration will strengthen our position in the market and enable us to provide enhanced lifestyle solutions and services to our residents, visitors to the region and to South Africa as a whole. By combining our expertise and resources, we will drive innovation, customer satisfaction, and business growth.”

“We believe this will be a great fit that will benefit everyone,” commented Ernie. “Around 20 years ago, I had initial discussions with Mr Burger about doing a project together so I was pleased when he approached me about the opportunity at Zimbali Lakes. We believe this will probably be one of the last golf course residential developments to be constructed in South Africa.”

The post Ernie announces ambitious new designs on Zimbali Lakes in South Africa appeared first on Ernie Els.

Ernie welcomed 17 of his fellow tour professionals, including seven major champions, and 58 keenly competitive amateurs for a day of fun and fundraising at the latest annual Els for Autism Pro Am on 18 March, 2024.

As is customary at this event, a pairings party and dinner took place the previous evening at The Els Center of Excellence, with the great Jack Nicklaus in attendance. This was followed by golf the next day at the splendid Old Palm Golf Club in nearby Palm Beach Gardens, a golf course designed by Raymond Floyd who was part of the stellar line-up of tour pros playing that day. 

By the end of proceedings, an impressive $800,000 had been fundraised, with every cent and dollar going to The Els for Autism Foundation. 

Writing on social media later that evening, Ernie commented “Sending my personal thanks to all the participants and sponsors who made our latest Els for Autism Wine Spectator Cigar Aficionado Pro Am such a special day. Once again, we are humbled by the spirit of kindness and generosity that contributed to another incredible fundraising total. And special thanks to my friends at NetJets for their continued support for Els for Autism and the incredible work being done to help children with autism and their families. This is life-changing and our life’s work.”

For more information on Els for Autism, including details of how to donate, please visit the website.

The post Seven major champions chip-in to help raise $800,000 for Els for Autism appeared first on Ernie Els.

Further new images from one of Ernie Els Design’s most exciting new projects, Lido Lakes in Sukabumi, West Java, Indonesia, serve to add weight to the adage that ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’. This is a majestic setting, by any measure.

“I was seriously impressed when we first visited some years back,” commented Ernie. “For a golf course designer, these are the kind of settings you love to work with. There are some truly breathtaking holes. All of us are excited about this one and we believe Lido Lakes is going to be a new go-to destination for golfers in south east Asia.”

The golf course is nearing completion and it is anticipated that it will officially open for play during 2024. Ernie went on to say, “it’s exciting that our firm’s first design in Indonesia is on such a great piece of land. That allowed us to create a great golf experience, but also offer tremendous views over the surrounding mountains and valleys. Everything is looking great. For Greg, myself, and everyone on the team, that feeling of seeing a design come to life never gets old. The guys have done an incredible job.”

For more information on Lido Lake Resort, please visit the official website: https://www.lidolakeresort.com/

The post “Lido Lakes is going to be a new go-to destination for golfers” says Ernie appeared first on Ernie Els.

We’ve arrived with the family in South Africa for our customary end-of-season vacation, something we all look forward to very much. 

But before I pretty much disappear until the New Year, there’s time for a quick update. The inaugural World Champions Cup in Florida, which we wrote about in a previous report, turned out to be a very special week. It was great to be part of such an amazing team (pictured below). We gave it our best shot and we had so much fun along the way, too. Of course, in the heat of the moment it stings to lose, but it was an unbelievable finish – a good one for the spectators! Congrats to the American team. 

Reflecting on the first playing of this tournament, obviously none of us quite knew what to expect, but all of us are united in thinking it was a real success, featuring some great golf on a demanding golf course. The format works; the games were very tight and no one really broke away. I mean, after all those matches, all those points up for grabs, it came down to the final hole, pretty much the final shot. I think we’ll all take away some wonderful memories of the week. It’s certainly a nice addition to the Champions Tour schedule. 

And really that’s about it for 2023. As I said in my previous report, golf-wise it’s been a solid year. Just the one victory and a bunch of top-10s. I had some leads, had some chances, but didn’t quite finish the job off. In this off-season I’ll have a little think about my tournament schedule in 2024. I love the competition and I’m enjoying being on the Champions Tour with the guys, but I’m thinking I might play a bit less than I have the last 2-3 years. We’ll see. 

Away from the competitive golf scene, there’s a lot of activity in the pipeline. In particular, 2024 looks like being a big year for Ernie Els Design. We can’t wait to share more news with you on that front. Myself and the whole team are really excited about what’s in store. 

One final thing, my good friend Nico Van Rensburg and the team at Els for Autism have launched the schedule for the Ernie Els Charities SA Series for 2024. As always, they’ve done a superb job pulling together a calendar of golf days at some great venues around South Africa (see poster below). Get in touch if you’d like to take part. 

All that remains is for me to thank you as always for your support throughout 2023. It means a lot to me. I wish you and your families good health and happiness in 2024. When all is said and done, that’s what matters in life. 

The post Ernie’s Latest News – 13 December appeared first on Ernie Els.

All the latest news and stories from the world of golf, Ernie Els Design, Ernie Els Wines, and across Ernie’s philanthropic interests.

1. Golf Challenge Grand Finale caps another stellar year of fun and fundraising
The 2023 Golf Challenge, the 13th instalment of one of the world’s largest charity-driven, amateur golf tournaments played every year at top-rated courses across the US and Canada, has smashed through the $3 million mark in funds raised for Els for Autism. Since the event’s inception in 2011, over 21,000 rounds of golf have been played and the fundraising total now stands at a staggering $37 million. Every dollar and cent raised benefits the Els for Autism Foundation, which is committed to better understanding the aspirations of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and helping them to fulfil their potential to lead positive, productive and rewarding lives. 

This month, as is customary, all Golf Challenge winners, sponsors and top fundraisers gathered at the Grand Finale, a two-day extravaganza of golf and entertainment. The event, which is attended by Ernie and Liezl, this year took place in the opulent surroundings of The Breakers in Palm Beach and included golf on the resort’s exquisite Ocean Course, Florida’s oldest layout.

“This is always one of the highlights of the year for Liezl and me,” says Ernie. “It’s a pleasure for us and the team at Els for Autism to spend time with everyone who earns their place at the Grand Finale and to have some fun together. Liezl and I have spoken about this before; we’re humbled by their commitment and efforts to raise money for our foundation. They have our sincere gratitude and respect. They’re literally helping change peoples’ lives, making a positive impact for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder. And the results of their fundraising efforts are evident every day in the wonderful work being done at The Els Center of Excellence.”

To sign up for updates and news from Els for Autism, including how to participate in the 2024 Golf Challenge, please visit the website.

2. A Champions Tour season in numbers
Ernie played a total of 23 events on the 2023 PGA TOUR Champions schedule. Some of the statistical highlights of his season are as follows…

1 win at the Hoag Classic
2 runner-up finishes
15 top-10s (T-1st with Steve Stricker)
19 top-25s
$2,166,383 in official prize money (4th)
3rd on the Charles Schwab Cup rankings

Ernie was placed second on Tour in scoring average with 69.09 for his 74 rounds played. 

He shot a season’s low round of 63, 8-under par, in the first round of the Charles Schwab Cup Championship in Arizona. 

Other selected highlights of Ernie’s year are reflected in the following performance stats…

Driving Distance: 292.4 yards (5th)
Greens in Regulation: 73.97% (4th)
Scrambling: 68.60% (3rd)
Putting Average: 1.738 (7th)
Putts per Round: 28.97 (13th)
Par-3 Scoring Average: 2.92 (1st)
Par-4 Scoring Average: 3.95 (4th)
Par-5 Scoring Average: 4.56 (7th)
Consecutive Sand Saves: 13 (1st)
Total Birdies: 307 (10th)

3. Best of Wine Tourism Award for Ernie Els Wines
We are thrilled to announce that Ernie Els Wines has been victorious in the recent 2024 Best of Wine Tourism Awards in the category of ‘architecture and landscaping’. This international competition celebrates innovation and excellence in wine tourism throughout the world’s greatest wine regions, including South Africa.

“Many congratulations to the whole team who work so hard to make our winery such a special place to visit,” commented Ernie. “Great job everyone! I look forward to seeing you all soon and raising a glass to celebrate this latest accolade.”

The Ernie Els Wines team’s commitment to excellence goes beyond the creation of exceptional wines; it is woven into every aspect of the winery and was the driving force behind the extensive renovations in 2020. Collaborating with Stellenbosch-based interior design studio, Rumour Has It, the team approached the transformation of its iconic building with the understanding that, much like the meticulous crafting of fine wines, creating remarkable experiences requires attention to detail and a profound appreciation for the subtleties that transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. 

In pursuit of this vision, the team collaborated with a diverse community of local artisans and skilled craftsmen, embracing a mix of talent and drawing inspiration from the surrounding region. Together, they created a breathtaking masterpiece that authentically captures the essence of the Helderberg – a sanctuary teeming with vibrant flora, diverse fauna, proud winemaking heritage and, of course, excellent Cabernet Sauvignon! 

“The essence of all art and design is to create things with luminous spirituality in them that actually take your breath away,” commented Hans von Staff-Reitzenstein, proprietor of Ernie Els Wines. “Our winery is a masterpiece and a landmark on the Helderberg Mountain – for me, it’s a slice of paradise!” 

For more information on Ernie Els Wines, visit the website.

4. Ernie Els-designed Albany all set to host an eighth Hero World Challenge
This stunning ocean-front layout (pictured above) was visited numerous times by course designer Ernie Els during the design and construction phases. “We’re thrilled with this golf course both from an aesthetic and strategic standpoint. The dunes look very natural and some of the out-of-play areas feature native grasses and plant materials, so it is the type of course that looks like it belongs in its environment. That’s one of our core design philosophies.”

Albany has been the home of the Hero World Challenge hosted by Tiger Woods since 2015, missing only one year (2020) due to Covid. Posting on Instagram, Ernie added, “I’m so proud that Albany will again welcome some of the world’s best golfers. It’s actually one of six courses in our portfolio to have now hosted a tour event. From the earliest site visits to this beautiful location, we knew Albany would be something very special. And from the feedback we’ve had in recent years, it’s evident that the players enjoy playing this golf course just as much as we did designing it.”

The golf course is a links-style championship golf course featuring five par-5s, five par-3s and eight par-4s. “We quickly developed a vision of a links-style layout,” says Ernie. “We felt those types of playing conditions and shot values would suit its proximity to the ocean, where the wind would make the course play different from one day to the next.

“To my mind, the most memorable holes are the ones that are most links-like, where the greens are cut, almost pushed back, into the surrounding dunes. Hole No.2 stands out; it’s a par-3 cut into a dune and is quite reminiscent of the 13th at Muirfield in Scotland, one of my favourite courses. Then there’s the 7th, a short par-4 that plays right-to-left off a dune with fairway bunkers that are strategically placed in such a way that when the wind is out of the southeast you can carry them and perhaps reach the green. The 14th is another standout hole. The fairway moves from left to right through a dune and depending on the wind direction you can be very aggressive with your tee shot or lay back. I like the balance of risk and reward; I think it works really well.

“Another standout hole is the 15th, which features the highest dune on the golf course. The green is semi-hidden from view, but again the more aggressive you are off the tee the more you see of it for your second shot. That’s one of the many really strong themes at Albany. The way we’ve angled some of the holes means golfers have to play semi-blind shots over dunes and into tucked-away greens.”

For more information on Ernie Els Design and its portfolio of courses, click on the dropdown menu at the top of this page.

5. New golf pro shop vocational lab powered by ClubsHelp
With the generous support of ClubsHelp Foundation, Els for Autism® is proud to introduce a new Golf Pro Shop vocational lab inside the newly opened Stoops Family Adult Services Building at The Els Center of Excellence®. Its purpose is creating opportunities for individuals with autism to explore careers in the golf industry. 

“Through this collaboration, ClubsHelp will support and amplify the skills and talents of these individuals, using our network of clubs across the country to create employment opportunities,” said Rob Goulet, President of the ClubsHelp Foundation. “The Els for Autism staff has the experience and knowledge to train clubs on recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and retaining employees with autism. And we’ll work through human resources professionals at clubs to communicate the advantages of employing people with autism.”

In other news at Els for Autism, to mark the 21st birthday year of Ernie and Liezl’s son Ben, the team has launched a ’21 Days of Giving’ initiative leading up to the annual Giving Tuesday program on November 28. The goal is to raise $21,000 to support the programs and services offered at Els for Autism.

For more information on Els for Autism, including ways to donate, please visit the website.

The post Ernie Els Group Newsletter – November 2023 appeared first on Ernie Els.

The 2023 Golf Challenge, the 13th instalment of one of the world’s largest charity-driven, amateur golf tournaments played every year at top-rated courses across the US and Canada, has smashed through the $3 million mark in funds raised for Els for Autism. 

Since the event’s inception in 2011, over 21,000 rounds of golf have been played and the fundraising total now stands at a staggering $37 million. Every dollar and cent raised benefits the Els for Autism Foundation, which is committed to better understanding the aspirations of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and helping them to fulfil their potential to lead positive, productive and rewarding lives. 

This month, as is customary, all Golf Challenge winners, sponsors and top fundraisers gathered at the Grand Finale, a two-day extravaganza of golf and entertainment. The event, which is attended by Ernie and Liezl, this year took place in the opulent surroundings of The Breakers in Palm Beach (pictured above) and included golf on the resort’s exquisite Ocean Course, Florida’s oldest layout.

“This is always one of the highlights of the year for Liezl and me,” says Ernie. “It’s a pleasure for us and the team at Els for Autism to spend time with everyone who earns their place at the Grand Finale and to have some fun together. Liezl and I have spoken about this before; we’re humbled by their commitment and efforts to raise money for our foundation. They have our sincere gratitude and respect. They’re literally helping change peoples’ lives, making a positive impact for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder. And the results of their fundraising efforts are evident every day in the wonderful work being done at The Els Center of Excellence.”

To sign up for updates and news from Els for Autism, including how to participate in the 2024 Golf Challenge, please visit the website.

The post Golf Challenge Grand Finale caps another stellar year of fun and fundraising appeared first on Ernie Els.

Ernie played a total of 23 events on the 2023 PGA TOUR Champions schedule. Some of the statistical highlights of his season are as follows…

1 win at the Hoag Classic
2 runner-up finishes
15 top-10s
19 top-25s
$2,166,383 in official prize money (4th on Tour)
3rd on the Charles Schwab Cup rankings

Ernie was placed second on Tour in scoring average with 69.09 for his 74 rounds played. 

He shot a season’s low round of 63, 8-under par, in the first round of the Charles Schwab Cup Championship in Arizona. 

Other selected highlights of Ernie’s year are reflected in the following performance stats…

Driving Distance: 292.4 yards (5th)
Greens in Regulation: 73.97% (4th)
Scrambling: 68.60% (3rd)
Putting Average: 1.738 (7th)
Putts per Round: 28.97 (13th)
Par-3 Scoring Average: 2.92 (1st)
Par-4 Scoring Average: 3.95 (4th)
Par-5 Scoring Average: 4.56 (7th)
Consecutive Sand Saves: 13 (1st)
Total Birdies: 307 (10th)

Ernie has one more event to play in 2023, the inaugural World Champions Cup from December 7-10 in Florida, where he is the playing captain for the International side. He will start his new PGA TOUR Champions season in Hawaii in January 2024.

The post A season in numbers appeared first on Ernie Els.