AFRICA AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP

February 3, 2025

Ivan Verster

Quick Quotes

Q. Ivan, back at Leopard Creek for another African Amateur Championship. How much are you looking forward to the week ahead?

IVAN VERSTER: Just amazing. It's nice and cool today, only 35. Really looking forward to the week ahead.

Q. Looking back on last year, runner-up last year, how much do you take from last year into this week? What did you learn from last year that you'll put into practice this week?

IVAN VERSTER: Pretty much it's the same game plan I had last year. I haven't changed much in my swing. It's still pretty similar. No regrets from last year. I did what I did, what I thought was the best in the moment to do, so no regrets. But yeah, just sticking to the game plan and it seems to be working, so yeah.

Q. How have results been for you since that time? Any notable wins that you've had in the amateur circuit?

IVAN VERSTER: I had one win and also came close a few wins. But I had a win I think it was November. But the golf has been good and trending in the right direction, so yeah, hopefully I can keep that up for this week.

Q. Do you see yourself contending again this week?

IVAN VERSTER: Definitely.

Q. There's a lot of camaraderie and competitiveness amongst your fellow South Africans. How is it competing in these events alongside your counterparts?

IVAN VERSTER: It's special. Some of the guys are going to turn pro this year. I might still see them but it's not the same. If you play with them you just chirp and whatever. We chirp each other so much, us South Africans, but we all enjoy it, and I think we all take it with a pinch of salt, but it's fine.

Q. How important are events like this for the continent and the development of golf in Africa?

IVAN VERSTER: I think it's big, or massive actually. To have a spot in the Open is just next level. It's not everyone that can say they've qualified for the Open. I know Altin really enjoyed that last year. Pleased for what he achieved last year. Yeah, it's special for Africa, this.

Q. How much would you like to be joining Altin as someone who's played in the Open?

IVAN VERSTER: I can't describe it. It's a dream. To play in any major, it's a dream come true.