“Golf is my second love,” says Melvin, who started playing in the summer of 1991 at Gaborone Golf Club, Botswana.

 

“Since then there has been no turning back. When I joined the former UNIBO in the winter of 1992, I also joined the then Mafikeng Golf Club, which is now called Leopard Park Golf Club.”

 

Knocking down his handicap

 

Melvin quickly mastered the sport, improving his game and handicap along the way. The high point of his golfing career to date was winning the South African Senior Amateur Championship B Division in handicaps 10-16 in 2003.

 

He has also won the Club Championship B Division twice, played league in the province for Leopard Park, and won too many prizes and trophies to count.

 

Melvin is also active in golf administration and has previously been a committee member, vice-captain and captain of Leopard Park. He is now a “senior statesman” at the club, ready to assist when called upon to do so.

 

It runs in the family

 

“Golf is so popular in my family that my son, Chabala, is now a competitions secretary on the committee. He has become a scratch player and hopes to turn professional in the foreseeable future,” Melvin says.

 

“My advice to all is to engage in some sport. You will never regret it. Golf has kept me busy and safe from earthly temptations. It has been a remarkable part of my life and I cannot imagine life without golf.”