By Eamonn Ryan
On Friday, 15 March 2024, the South African Institute of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (SAIRAC) hosted a spectacular golf day event at the picturesque Kyalami Country Club.
SAIRAC Johannesburg chairman Gregory Grobbelaar. © RACA Journal
Members from the industry – and others – gathered to celebrate, network and enjoy a day filled with camaraderie and excitement.
The event kicked off at 6:00 for sponsors, registration took take place at 07:00, followed by tee off at 9:30 for a 10:00 shotgun start.
Participants, clad in their finest golf attire, teed off under heavy skies and blustery conditions – though that dampened nobody’s cheerfulness. The competitive spirit was palpable as players vied for the coveted title on offer in the evening revelry. Birdies, eagles, and even a few well-executed putts kept the excitement levels high throughout the day.
Networking opportunities galore
Beyond the fairways, the clubhouse buzzed with activity. SAIRAC members, industry professionals and sponsors engaged in lively conversations. Business cards exchanged hands, partnerships were forged, and new connections blossomed. The event provided a unique platform for professionals to discuss industry trends, share insights and explore collaborative opportunities.
As the sun reached its nadir, participants gathered for a sumptuous supper. The Kyalami Country Club’s culinary team outdid themselves, serving a delectable spread that included local delicacies and international favorites. Raucous laughter echoed across the dining hall as attendees relished their meals and swapped stories of their morning golf escapades.
The highlight of the day was the awards ceremony. SAIRAC honoured outstanding members, recognising their contributions to the field of refrigeration and air conditioning. These will be profiled in subsequent online articles. The applause was heartfelt as each recipient stepped forward to receive their well-deserved accolades.
In his opening remarks, Johannesburg Chairman Gregory Grobbelaar expressed his gratitude. “Today’s golf day was more than just a golf tournament,” he said. “It was a celebration of our vibrant community – a community that thrives on collaboration, knowledge sharing and mutual support.”
SAIRAC’s golf day achieved its goal: fostering connections, celebrating achievements and strengthening bonds within the industry. Plans are already underway for next year’s event, promising an even more remarkable experience.
In the words of one participant, “This was more than a successful golf day; it was a celebration of our shared passion for refrigeration and air conditioning.”
