Schaper Leads at Weather-Disrupted Joburg Open

Johannesburg, South Africa – Jayden Schaper of South Africa shares the lead at the Joburg Open after a challenging first day marked by heavy rain and lightning delays. Schaper carded a flawless 64 to tie with England’s Nathan Kimsey and Germany’s Maximilian Steinlechner at six-under-par at Houghton Golf Club on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

Dramatic Start for Kimsey

Kimsey’s participation was almost derailed by a late withdrawal, requiring him to rush to the tee with only 30 seconds to spare. Despite the chaotic start, he delivered an impressive round. “I turned up at the club first thing hoping I’d get a tee time… I just took it as an opportunity I got at the last minute, and it worked out pretty well,” Kimsey said according to the Sunshine Tour.

Chasing the Leaders

A group of six players – Wilco Nienaber, Jacob Olesen, Darius van Driel, and Hugo Townsend – are one stroke behind the leaders at five-under-par. Luke Brown of South Africa is seven-under through 12 holes, while Angel Ayora of Spain is six-under with three holes remaining.

Notable Performances

Jacques Kruyswijk, runner-up in last year’s Joburg Open, and former champion Richard Sterne began with rounds of two-under 68. American Patrick Reed, making his debut in the event, finished at one-under 69. Compleat Golfer reports Schaper’s round included an eagle on the par-five fifth hole.

Schaper’s Strong Form Continues

Schaper, seeking his third DP World Tour victory this season, expressed satisfaction with his performance despite the difficult conditions. “It’s always nice to get off to a good start, especially with it being so wet out there,” Schaper stated. “It’s hard to judge what the greens are going to do… But I just played the same game I’ve been playing.”

Play to Resume Friday

Due to the persistent rain and a one-hour and 45-minute suspension for lightning, the first round will be completed on Friday morning.