Whatshot
San Lameer's Du Toit is SA's top PGA professional
San Lameer's Du Toit is SA's top PGA professional
This is the first time Du Toit has won what is considered the top award for a PGA professional working in the South African golf industry.
"I feel very honoured to receive this award. It's something I always aspired to achieve," said Du Toit.
"I remember as a youngster doing my apprenticeship under Jeff Clause, who has won this award several times. I used to look at his medals on his desk and think I'd love to one day also receive this award. To have my name there alongside legends of the PGA is an honour and a privilege."
Du Toit and his wife, Vickey, head up the strong team that has helped to reposition San Lameer at the forefront of the South African golf estate market.
And it's been Du Toit's incredible energy and enthusiasm that has been the main driver behind this process. It's something he first learnt while working under Clause at Sparrebosch/Pezula.
"One of the fundamental things I have learnt was the importance of growing the game of golf by putting your members and guests first. You can't do this on your own, so it's important to surround yourself with a great team, and without their dedication, this award wouldn't have come my way. My wife, Vickey, has been an incredible support. It really helps to have a good committee that has faith in my ability to run the club. I'm fortunate to have been in a position where I was part of big changes and renovations to the club, facilities and course. It's been an exciting couple of years and I am privileged to do what I love every day."
It's important to surround yourself with positive people."
Du Toit says his focus now is to keep building on the progress they have made at San Lameer.
"San Lameer, being one of the first golf estates in South Africa, went through some challenges and the committee saw the importance of getting it back on the map."
When he's not in the office, you'll find Du Toit on the golf course.
"I love playing golf with my friends when I have time off. I've also become a bit of a fitness fanatic so do a bit of running and cycling. Vickey and I love spending time with our friends. We're fortunate to be living on the estate and we refer to our home as 'Lodge Du Toit'."
As his close friend and touring professional Branden Grace climbs the world rankings, Du Toit is equally happy to have reached the top spot and be recognised as South Africa's number one PGA Professional.