The course became known for its punishing rough, which is the only defense it has (apart from the prevailing winds). Large or bulky trees and bushes were not allowed in the design of the course, for the simple reason that they would obscure the view of the racetrack.
One of the proudest moments in the history of the club was on April 8, 1932 when (following a visit from Edward VIII, the then Prince of Wales, in 1925) Durban Golf Club was granted permission to use the prefix “Royal” by King George V, making it one of only four golf clubs in southern Africa to obtain this honour.
It was at this time that the Royal Durban Golf Club also designed and introduced their club badge, which is still used today. The motto “Ludus Palma Potior” has been officially translated as “the game supersedes the man”.
Royal Durban is one of the very few golf courses to be sited in the middle of a horse racing track and has hosted some renowned golfing tournaments in the last 100 years, including (most notably) the South African Championships in 1911 and the Commonwealth Tournament in 1975 which saw Nick Faldo playing at the tender age of eighteen.
Some of our Historical achievements include:
- – In 1985 the SA Open was played at Royal Durban which was won by Gaven Levinson
- – Sandy Lyle, winner of the British Open in 1985 and Masters Champion in 1988, played in the Commonwealth Tournament at Royal Durban with Nick Faldo in 1975.