Share

WATCH: Players take on the Black Knight in Captain's Challenge

Sun City - Three icons of their sports – Gary Player, John Smit and Andy Cole – took part in the inaugural Captain’s Challenge at the 2016 Gary Player Invitational presented by Coca-Cola at The Lost City Golf Club this weekend.

Each had to get closest to the pin using the ball of their respective sport, and each player was given three attempts.

Grand Slam champion and South African Olympic golf team captain Player was the first to go. The Black Knight hit his wedge to within one foot of the hole and didn’t even bother with his other two attempts, saying, “I’m good. Let them beat that”.

Former Springbok captain Smit and former England and Manchester United star Cole tried their best but eventually had to concede defeat to Player.

Player even offered a handicap for Smit considering the awkward bounce of the rugby ball.

“C’mon John, I tell you what. You can kick from about 20 metres closer.” To which Smit replied, “No thanks. If I beat you I want to beat you fair and square.”

The Captain’s Challenge was one of the highlights of this year’s Gary Player Invitational presented by Coca-Cola, and annual charity tournament that raises funds for underprivileged communities in South Africa. Friday night’s official gala dinner and charitable auction helped to raise over R3 million for charity.

Photo supplied by Michael Vlismas

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE