Dale Whitnell Makes History with Two Holes-In-One at South African Open
In a remarkable feat of golfing prowess, England’s Dale Whitnell achieved the near-impossible during the Investec South African Open Championship in Durban. On a fateful day that will go down in golfing history, Whitnell astounded spectators and fellow players alike by achieving not just one, but two holes-in-one in the span of 11 holes. This extraordinary display of skill and precision took place on Friday, 28 February 2025, at the Durban Country Club.
The 36-year-old golfer, currently ranked No. 545 in the world, embarked on what can only be described as a magical journey on the course. Whitnell’s awe-inspiring performance began with a seven-iron shot on the par-three second hole, covering a distance of 179 yards. The ball found its mark, sailing gracefully through the air before landing in the cup with pinpoint accuracy. This initial hole-in-one propelled Whitnell to five under-par, setting the stage for an unforgettable sequence of events.
Undeterred by the sheer improbability of his first hole-in-one, Whitnell continued his exceptional round with an eagle on the third hole. However, the true highlight of the day came when he achieved yet another sensational hole-in-one, this time on the 12th hole. The crowd erupted in cheers as Whitnell’s ball disappeared into the hole, marking his second ace of the day and solidifying his place in golfing lore.
As Whitnell’s crazy second round unfolded, he encountered a minor setback with a double bogey on the 16th hole. Despite this momentary stumble, he concluded the round with a remarkable score of 63, finishing at 9-under for the day. This exceptional performance was a testament to Whitnell’s skill, focus, and unwavering determination on the course.
Notably, Whitnell’s achievement places him in a rarefied group of golfers who have managed to make two holes-in-one in the same round. Joining the ranks of legendary players such as Bill Whedon, Yusaku Miyazato, and Brian Harman, Whitnell’s name now stands among the elite few who have accomplished this extraordinary feat in the history of the sport.
Meanwhile, the DP Tour competition in Durban was dominated by home favourite Dylan Naidoo, whose stellar performance included 10 birdies and an eagle. Naidoo’s impressive showing saw him claim the clubhouse lead at 11-under, further adding to the excitement and drama of the championship.
As the tournament unfolds, golf enthusiasts around the world are eagerly following the action at the South African Open Championship. With live coverage available on Sky Sports Golf, fans have the opportunity to witness the thrill of competitive golf at the highest level. Stay tuned for more updates and highlights as the tournament progresses, and join us in celebrating the incredible achievements of players like Dale Whitnell, whose skill and tenacity continue to inspire audiences worldwide.
