Episode 99: Cotswold Downs

In this episode of The Goat Track, JDV and regular guest Ben head to KwaZulu-Natal to break down the winter setup at Cotswold Downs. The drier months completely change the strategy on this inland layout, as the dormant kikuyu fairways firm up and offer plenty of extra run off the tee. While the added distance is a lot of fun, it severely complicates the short game. The guys discuss the reality of playing into the course's tricky, raised greens, where the firmer conditions and severe slopes quickly expose a misjudged approach or chip. Beyond the scorecard and course management, they highlight the welcoming member culture, how to handle the continuous elevation changes, and deliver a definitive verdict on the club's mandatory halfway house curry sandwiches.