His participation, alongside the collective support of his Stinger GC teammates, captained by Louis Oosthuizen, underscores a strong commitment to nurturing the very tour that launched their careers.

In a powerful display of homegrown loyalty, the full Stinger GC contingent - Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel, Branden Grace, and Burmester-has further strengthened the tournament by contributing to an increase in this year’s prize money, which now stands at a healthy R3 million.

PGA Championship trophy. Photo: Sunshine Tour

The PGA Championship, South Africa’s second-oldest professional tournament, will see Burmester head to St Francis Links with his sights set on a repeat victory. Having lifted the trophy in 2021, a win this year would see him join a rare and celebrated list of multiple champions.

“I’m very excited to play in the PGA Championship,” said Burmester.

“I have fond memories of winning this tournament in 2021, and it’s always an honour to add your name to a trophy that carries the names of some of Southern Africa’s greatest golfers. 

“It’s going to be very special to be back and supporting an event I’ve always held in high regard.”

Louis Oosthuizen. Photo: Stinger GC

Speaking on behalf of the team, captain Louis Oosthuizen emphasised their shared desire to give back to the local game.

“All four of us are homegrown Sunshine Tour players. We all started our careers on this Tour and took the opportunities it offered to take our games to the international stage.  

“It’s a privilege now to serve as an inspiration for the next generation of Sunshine Tour professionals. That’s why we take every chance we can to come home and support the Tour.”

Dean Burmester after winning the 2021 PGA Championship. Photo: Sunshine Tour

The former Open Championship winner said the PGA Championship holds special significance for South African golf and should be celebrated as such.

“The PGA Championship is one of our most prestigious tournaments, and I’m proud to have won it twice. I know what it meant for my career. 

“While we’d all like to play in it this year, Dean will be there to represent us. Stinger GC - and we as players look forward to playing our part in the growth of this great event going forward.”

The 2025 Sunshine Tour PGA Championship is scheduled to take place at St Francis Links in the Eastern Cape from 27–30 November.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg