This archive report was first published on 22 April 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread across the globe, the Sunshine Tour has been forced to postpone or cancel several events scheduled for May, June, and July.
The tour, which stages events in South Africa, Swaziland (Eswatini), Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Kenya, had initially planned to hold events in these countries. However, following consultation with sponsors, the tour has decided to postpone or cancel the events.
According to the tour's latest newsletter, issued on April 18, the decision was made to prioritize the health and safety of everyone associated with the Sunshine Tour. The newsletter stated, 'We trust that you are all staying safe and keeping yourself busy during the lockdown period.'
Senior Tournament Director Gary Todd confirmed the decision, stating, 'As of now, we are not talking about the calendar because we don’t even know if there will at all be any events this year. It will all depend on the situation.'
Several events have been affected by the decision, including the Investec Royal Swazi Open, which has been rescheduled for October 28-31, and the Lombard Insurance Classic, which has been cancelled until 2021. The Zambia Open has also been cancelled due to the situation in Kitwe and the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, the Kings Cup in Swaziland will still take place in the scheduled date from September 3-5. The Vodacom Origins of Golf will not make a decision on the possible way forward until July 10.
On the other hand, Todd said he will be communicating with Karen Country Club, hosts of the KCB Karen Masters, as well as the sponsors KCB. The KCB Karen Masters, now part of the Sunshine Tour, was moved from the month of June to September.
