The 2025 Nedbank Desert Classic once again proved why it is regarded as one of Namibia’s leading amateur golf tournaments, as 140 golfers from around the country gathered at Rössmund Golf Club in Swakopmund for two days of high-level competition. 

Hosted by DZ Golf and sponsored by Nedbank Namibia, with King Price Insurance as co-sponsor, the tournament delivered a mix of skill, strategy and camaraderie in favourable playing conditions.

King Price Insurance heightened the atmosphere with a hole-in-one challenge on the 18th hole, drawing spectators and adding a festive edge to the competition. 

Dan Zwiebel and 11-year-old Neil Salt claimed top honours at this year’s edition, a result that highlighted the Desert Classic’s unique ability to bring together seasoned golfers and emerging young talent. 

Their win reflected the tournament’s broader aim of nurturing amateur golf in Namibia and creating pathways for younger players to compete at elite levels.

Now in its seventh year of sponsorship by Nedbank, the Desert Classic has grown into a key feature of the national golf calendar, attracting participants across age groups and abilities.

The focus on youth development was particularly evident this year. 

Nedbank Namibia’s head of marketing and communications, Gernot de Klerk, said the tournament aligns strongly with the bank’s values. “It reflects who we are as Nedbank Namibia. We believe in creating opportunity, supporting our communities and investing in the future. Seeing an 11-year-old win alongside experienced players drives home why we dedicate ourselves to events like this,” he said.

Beyond the competition, the 2025 Nedbank Desert Classic once again demonstrated how sport can unite communities, develop young talent and offer sponsors a platform to make a lasting impact. 

With its balance of competitive golf, entertainment and community involvement, the tournament continues to strengthen its status as a flagship sporting event in Namibia. -newsroom@nepc.com.na