New chapter for golf development
Calistus Kolantsho | Saturday September 9, 2023 06:00
In a three-year agreement, the two entities have united to establish FNB World of Golf @ Blue Tree. FNBB's CEO, Steven Bogatsu, expressed enthusiasm during the unveiling ceremony for the partnership with the Blue Tree World of Golf.
"This is more than just a sponsorship. It is a shared vision to elevate the golfing experience and provide a space of growth, excellence and community. FNB’s strategy over the years has included supporting grassroots sports and this partnership provides a great platform for young golfers to grow in the field," noted Bogatsu.
He said traditionally, golf has occupied a niche market in the country, but FNBB aims to redefine this status quo. "This deal is an extension of the existing partnership that the bank has had with the Blue Tree World of Golf, which spans about 10 years. This has included branding the facility, as well as, offering discounts to FNBB staff and customers when they swipe their FNBB cards," Bogatsu elaborated.
Steve Smith, the managing director of the Blue Tree World of Golf, was elated about the new collaboration with FNBB. He emphasised the potential for this partnership to enhance and sustain the existing Blue Tree facility. He said having operated for 12 years, this marks a significant milestone in golf development in Botswana. The partnership, initially set for three years, officially started on July 1. Smith noted that Botswana lacked a facility like the Blue Tree World of Golf and it was not until 2011 that the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) was formally established. "Open Baptist Church was looking for partners to develop this piece of land in 2009 for sports recreation.
I jumped into the opportunity. I told them that I needed to develop a golf driving range. I needed to do it properly. We needed something for golf development," he recounted. Smith described Blue Tree as a world-class facility akin to those found in other nations. Regarding PGA Botswana, he acknowledged a generational gap between youth and older players, an issue they are actively addressing, hence the introduction of initiatives such as the junior golf league.