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Minister of Sport and Recreation SA, Hon. Fikile Mbalula, watching The Proteas, South Africa Cricket team, defending the South African flag at the Kia Oval, London, witnessed on the screen as South Africa's golf legend Ernie Els being crowned the 2012 British Open Champion.

"This is a sign of good things to happen on the British soil. The Big Easy steadily gave South Africa a clinical finish to lift the highest golfing honour in the UK" Minister Mbalula said. Mbalula believes Ernie Els' win will motivate Graeme Smith and his boys to do more and defeat the English at the Kia Oval.

"The standing ovation The Big Easy received today, comes at the time when we prepare to compete with nations of the world during the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic games, and this can only symbolise more glory for us, as a country, for the months of July and August." the confident Minister of Sport and Recreation said.

"Ernie's victory means a lot, the British weather has been fantastic for our athletes as they prepare to be counted amongst the best. And this weather must be seen and treated as an added plus for all these ambassadors of the country. Thank you Ernie Els for opening the doors for our athletes as they prepare for the podium finish during the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic games," Mbalula added.

Mbalula, whom yesterday personally presented Graeme Smith with the South African flag, as a sign of victory and honour, also congratulated Hashim Amla for the fantastic performance at the Kia Oval.

"Words can't express how I feel about South Africa's Sport Star of the Year. He just keep creating waves and moving mountains. Well done to Hashim Amla!" Mbalula concluded.