Golf etiquette is very strict on this: you have to buy the clubhouse a round of drinks if you get a hole-in-one. If you’re a member of a large club, this stroke of luck can set you back more than R10 000.

There is now an alternative to keeping the happiest moment of your life (after your wedding day that is) a secret to avoid coughing up for drinks.

Kevin Skuse, Regional Warranty and Plus+ Manager at AIG South Africa, said that in response to demand from clients AIG has introduced South Africa's first Golfer’s Insurance which provides reimbursement of expenses incurred as a result of scoring a hole-in-one at any golf course or club.

"Golf is the fastest growing sport in the world," said Skuse.

"It makes a lot of sense to introduce specific coverage for a sport that is so popular in South Africa."

The payout for a hole-in-one is the more light-hearted side of this insurance. "We recently settled a bar tab for just over R5000 on behalf of one of our clients. He was obviously elated he hit a hole-in-one and quite relieved that he did not have to pay for the expensive celebratory round of drinks."

And for the hacks all around South Africa who think their chances of a hole-in-one are remote, Golfer’s Insurance provides protection for them too. The additional coverage provided with this insurance protects against more serious perils such as personal injury or death, liability for injury or property damage to others and loss of golf equipment which may occur on a golf course or club.

The potential for property damage and physical injury is real even on the quietest of golf courses. "It’s perfect for those who have a bad hook or slice," notes Skuse.

"And the cover provides for the loss of clubs and other golf related items. Even your yellow, green and brown plus fours which cause car alarms to go off," said Skuse.

The Golfer’s Insurance ranges between R10 to R40 per month depending on which cover you choose.

For more information call 0861 115 766 or visit www.aig.co.za.

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