The 2023 champion looked right at home as galleries packed the fairways and grandstands from early morning, creating an atmosphere Burmester admitted he’d never experienced on a first day of golf in South Africa. Riding that wave of support, he carved his way to a superb five-under-par 65 on a demanding par-70 layout that didn’t give much away.

Burmester shares top spot with Spain’s Alejandro del Rey, England’s Joe Dean and Finland’s Oliver Lindell, with the quartet one shot clear of a chasing pack that includes South Africa’s Herman Loubser, American Johannes Veerman, England’s Nathan Kimsey and Italy’s Francesco Laporta.

Alejandro Del Rey - Sunshine Tour

But the day belonged to Burmester - not just for his score, but for the connection with the crowd. From the buzz around the first tee to the roar that greeted him up 18, the big-hitting South African thrived in the moment.

“What a vibe. What a venue,” he said afterwards, clearly energised by the turnout.

“The course is in incredible condition and it’s a fair test. You can already see it’s going to show its teeth as the week goes on.”

And it already did. With a gusting wind swirling through Stellenbosch, scoring was anything but straightforward. Burmester, however, found a rhythm early and trusted his putter on greens that reminded him of home in George.

“It was tough out there, no doubt. The wind made it tricky and the course is definitely got bite,” he said. “But I felt really comfortable on these greens. I could see the lines nicely and the pace suited my eye.”

His round was built on resilience as much as flair. Seven birdies kept the momentum going, while limiting mistakes to just two bogeys proved crucial on a day where many faltered.

Joe Dean - Sunshine Tour

“You don’t win it on Thursday, but you can certainly lose it,” Burmester added.

“I’m just pleased I stayed in it and gave myself a chance. Now it’s about sticking to my game plan and seeing if I can back it up over the next three days.”

Behind him, GolfRSA amateur Jack Buchanan impressed with a one-under 69 to lead the Freddie Tait Cup race on debut, while big names like Patrick Reed (71), defending champion Dylan Naidoo (73) and veteran Ernie Els (74) were left with work to do.

For now, though, it’s Burmester setting the pace – he will be on the tee again at 7:10 along with former champion, Andy Sullivan (2015), of England, and France's Julien Guerrier.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport