Tales from the field:
A Roaring Success: Fourth Annual Copperleaf Golf Day Raises R380,000 for Conservation

Our 4th Annual Copperleaf Golf Day, proudly sponsored by the Ford Wildlife Foundation and supported by the Hatfield Motor Group, was nothing short of a roaring success.
On a crisp Highveld morning in May, 120 enthusiastic golfers gathered, ready to register, connect, and support conservation while enjoying a game we all love. Events like these remind us of the phenomenal power of golf, a sport that brings people together across all skill levels, fostering camaraderie without judgement, while encouraging movement and time spent in the beauty of the outdoors.
Copperleaf, an immaculate Ernie Els-designed course, provided the perfect backdrop for the day. With sweeping views of the Magaliesberg mountain range, striking aloe gardens, wide-open fairways, and pristine greens, it was a truly memorable setting. Ford vehicles, proudly displayed throughout the course, added to the sense of occasion, creating a spectacular experience for both players and sponsors.
The day culminated in a lively prize-giving ceremony, celebrating both competition and generosity. Thanks to the incredible support of our sponsors and players, we raised over R380,000.00 for vital conservation efforts.
None of this would be possible without our sponsors, and we encourage everyone to support these champions of conservation. A special thank you goes to Marataba, Madikwe Hills, aha hotels and lodges (Pilansberg), Mongena Private Game Reserve and Ritsako (Dinokeng Game Reserve) Â who generously donated prizes with a combined value of R200,000.00. Beyond their contributions to the day, these partners play an integral role in conservation initiatives we are proud to be involved in. The EWT Carnivore Conservation Unit helps these properties with the management of the cheetah populations on Marataba, Dinokeng Game Reserve and Pilansberg, as well as both wild dog and cheetah metapopulations on Madikwe Private Game Reserve.
The Hatfield Motor Group once again went above and beyond – hosting fourballs, sponsoring five holes, and donating countless prizes. We are also grateful to Rhino Sandton, who contributed generously, including a R10,000.00 hole-in-one prize. While no one claimed it on the day, Rhino Sandton donated the prize value to conservation – a gesture that truly embodies the spirit of the event.
We were delighted to have golf influencer Alex Beazley join us on the course, adding to the energy and excitement of the day. A special highlight was the generous contribution from Akker van der Merwe of the Bulls, who donated a signed rugby jersey and tickets to the quarter-final — much to the delight of attendees.
The excitement of the day was enhanced by the ongoing interviews, commentary and legendary music provided by Rogues on Radio. This was generously sponsored by Ford Fourways. Rogues on Radio joined our prize giving adding some vibey tunes.
We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to all our sponsors: Ford Wildlife Foundation | Hatfield Motor Group | Go2Africa |CMH Ford Gezina | Marataba | Madikwe Hills | aha | Mongena | Ritsako | Millstream | Mabula | Indaba Hotel | Rhino Sandton | Dream Resorts and Hotels | Go Vacation and Sense of Africa | Tourvest | Equate Advisory Group
A heartfelt thank you goes to our loyal supporters who continue to stand by us year after year:
Anchor Enginuity, RSAdvisors, Sere-med, Indwe Risk Services, N3TC, Levego, 342 Logistics, Equate Group, Intocast. Your ongoing commitment makes these events possible.
The success of this year’s golf day is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose. We are deeply grateful for the support shown and look forward to continuing this momentum as we work to protect and conserve our wildlife for generations to come.
