The River Club

About the club

South African entrepreneur Sydney "Punch" Barlow founded The River Club in 1967 after finding himself frustrated with the crowded conditions at other private establishments. The club is near Sandton, a high-end suburb of Johannesburg. Barlow got what he was after: River Club is as exclusive as can be, with compulsory caddies and prices to match. For those fortunate enough to wangle an invitation, a fantastic golf experience is in store on a course known as South Africa's answer to Augusta National. Fairways are lined with trees and feature strategic bunkering; the greens are gently undulating; and water is frequently in play. The last stretch is particularly impressive, beginning with the 14th hole on the Jukskei River. The first layout, by Bob Grimsdel in the Sixties, was renovated in the Nineties by designer Rob O'Friel and manager Roy Yates; the team spared no expense reconfiguring the hazards and modernizing the facilities.