“FORE!” was the warning when the Herald Hotline team got their golf swing in order at the Walmer Woods driving range.

Being welcomed by Professional Golfing Association (PGA) member Wayne Berry and owner Ronald Rowe made us feel we were in good hands.

The driving range is open seven days a week from 8am until sunset. This allows golfing enthusiasts to play a round after a stressful day at work. Golf is a sport for all ages.

Parents will be glad to know they can leave their children at the range while they do their shopping. It is a safe environment for all.

Beginners are given a golf club and balls to start their golfing experience.

On arrival, we grabbed a bucket of balls and were eager to smash some over the horizon.

With a few helpful hints – “Keep your left arm straight,” “Keep your eye on the ball,” “Try not to hit hard the first time” – we were ready to go.

At first, Shafeeka found the game a bit difficult, but soon she was so good even South African golfing legend Gary Player would be proud.

Wayne said those who planned to take up golf as a hobby, ought to consult a professional first, as any bad habits that might be picked up would be minimised.

After getting the rundown on the correct stance and how to hold the clubs, the Hotline team took a few shots at the ball.

Wayne made a video-recording of Ryan’s swinging technique to estimate how he handled the golf club and where he could improve.

Analysis of the data, showed Ryan’s strengths and weaknesses. This is handy for beginners who would like to start off on the right foot, or even for experts keen to improve their game. The service is offered free of charge.

Ryan got the hang of it fairly quickly, and Shafeeka was showered with compliments as she did really well in her first outing and made contact with the ball every time.

The Hotline team then moved on to the putting green.

The holes all over the green proved to be good fun, with bumps and lumps throwing our balls off course every time.

For those who want to practise before hitting the golf course, there is a bunker available. A bunker is a sand pit that proves to be a difficult obstacle for golfers.

For professional help in golfing, tee off at the Walmer Woods driving range. You pay R15 for 30 balls, R25 for 60 balls and R35 for 100 balls.

Berry and Nic Grundtvig, also a PGA member, offer lessons at the driving range at R150 a lessor or R750 for a course of six lessons.

The range is in Villiers Road, Walmer.