It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Martin Saaiman, President of the SAGA.

We would like to extend our condolences to Martin’s family, friends and co-workers following his unexpected passing on Wednesday the 18th August 2021.

Martin (59) served in golf administration for more than three decades, including 12 years as President of the Ekurhuleni Golf Union.

He began representing Ekurhuleni Golf Union on the South African Golf Association’s National Executive Committee (SAGA NEC) in 2008 and was elected chairman of the Championship and Tournaments Committee a year later. In 2013 he was appointed as a national selector and served on the SAGA’s Finance Committee.

From April 2016, Martin served as Junior Vice-President of the SAGA and Senior Vice-President from 2019. He became acting President in September 2020 when Naadir Agherdien was forced to step down in September 2020 due to health reasons and was elected President in April 2021.

The former South African Police Service (SAPS) Human Resources Manager also served as the vice chairman of the SAPS Training Centre Golf Club from 1992. He was their representative at the Eastern Gauteng Golf Union from 2002 to 2004 and served as the chairman of the SAPS National Golf Body from 1992 to 1995.

His unexpected passing will leave a significant void in the golf industry.