Golfer Pacific NZ – May 2021

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Win No 16 on the LPGA Tour especially sweet for Lydia Ko PAGE 3 ISSN 1178-0754 ISSN 1835-1336 XX 05

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EDITORIAL

pgueorgieff@yahoo.co.nz

Putt for show, drive for dough D

By Paul Gueorgieff Editor, Golfer Pacific NZ

rive for show, putt for dough.

That’s an expression in golf that’s been around for years. It basically means good putting is what wins tournaments rather than good drives.

But following a tournament at my home club last month I am starting to wonder if it should be the other way round — putt for show, drive for dough.

The tournament was a Canadian foursomes’ event. That’s where each player in a team of two drives off and then selects the preferred tee shot. After that they play alternate shots until the hole is completed.

The tournament only had a small field of 54 players (27

teams) but the some of the scoring was outstanding. The winning team, for example, scored an amazing 47 stableford points.

The winning pair are regular golfers and could not be described as burglars. The handicap of each team was straight forward. The handicaps of each player were added together and the team handicap was half that figure.

While I could hardly believe the winning score, what amazed me just as much was the scores of the second, third, fourth and fifth teams. There were two teams on scores of 44 stableford points for equal second and two teams on 43 stableford points for equal fourth. That’s five pairings with scores of 43 points or better.

This got me thinking. Why were the stableford points so

high? I might have scored in the low forties a few times in my life but never in the high forties.

I would also suggest the winning pair have never scored in the high forties in their lives either, when playing individually.

So what was the difference on this occasion, I asked myself.

What was different?

The only conclusion I could make was that they had a choice of drives off the tee, which you obviously can’t do when playing individually.

And that made me think if you drive the ball well for 18 holes are you probably going to score very well? Probably yes, was my answer.

Let’s think about this. When you score badly on a hole is it usually because of bad tee shot?

Probably is the answer.

Your tee shot may have gone out of bounds, into a hazard, into some bushes, onto the wrong fairway, behind a tree or into the water. When that happens your are immediately on the back foot and unlikely to recover to score a par. You might even be heading for double bogey or worse.

So, in my mind, your tee shot is important, very important.

Yes, putting is important as well. But so is every shot.

My favourite question and answer for golf is the following.

Question: What is the most important shot in golf? Answer: The next one.

But I am now thinking if you start every hole well, you might finish every hole well. Drive well, play well.

NEW ZEALAND EDITORIAL Paul Gueorgieff pgueorgieff@yahoo.co.nz Ph: 64 4 565 0385 Mob: 64 27 227 1038 SALES & CLUB PACKAGE GOLF TRAILS & NOTICEBOARDS Leigh Smith smith.sun@bigpond.com Ph: 0061 7 5504 6334 Mob: 0061 433 163 043 LAYOUT & DESIGN layout.golferpacificnz@gmail.com PUBLISHER Golfer Pacific NZ LTD PO Box 51338 Tawa, Wellington 5249, New Zealand ACCOUNTS Leigh Smith smith.sun@bigpond.com SUBSCRIPTION $60.00 per annum including GST smith.sun@bigpond.com Ph: 0061 5575 7444 Mob: 0061 433 163 043 NEW ZEALAND MAIL ADDRESS PO Box 51338 Tawa, Wellington 5249, New Zealand AUSTRALIAN MAIL ADDRESS PO Box 264 Chevron Island QLD 4217, Australia COVER PHOTO: Lydia Ko poses with the trophy after winning the Lotte Championship at Kapolei Golf Club in Kapolei, Hawaii. Photo credit: Christian Petersen/Getty Images.

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May 2021

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Lydia Ko plays a tee shot on the first hole during the final round of the Lotte Championship at Kapolei Golf Club in Kapolei, Hawaii, last month. Photo credit: Christian Petersen/Getty Images.

O

ne week Lydia Ko wins a tournament on the world’s richest golf circuit for women by an incredible seven shots. The following week she misses the cut.

But the latter result wouldn’t have been greatly disappointed the New Zealand golfer.

More important was her win in the $US2 million Lotte Championship in Hawaii last month. That put an end to her non-winning streak of nearly three years and earned her a first prize of $US300,000.

That’s about $NZ416,000.

For most professional golfers, a win every three years on the world’s toughest golf tour would be satisfactory.

But that’s not the case for Ko because of the star she became.

She was aged 15 and still an amateur when she won her first tournament, the Canadian Open, on the Ladies’ Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour.

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She was 17 when she became the world’s youngest top ranked women golfer.

And she was 18 when she won her first major championship.

Put simply she was a teenage sensation. Ko racked up an amazing 15 wins on the LPGA Tour before her three-year drought set in. It’s hard to think that she only turned 24 on April 24.

The drought saw frustration creep in. There were changes of caddies, changes of clubs and changes of coaches.

But a link with renowned Canadian coach Sean Foley has seen her return to the winners’ list. Ko was in contact with Foley on the morning of the final round of the Lotte Championship.

Ko recalled: “I said to myself trust my training, and this morning Sean texted me: ‘Hey, just trust and conviction,’ and I wrote that on my pin sheet today.”

She then went out onto the golf course and closed

May 2021

with a 65 to finish at 28-under-par, seven strokes clear of Inbee Park, Sei Young Kim, Nelly Korda and Leona Maguire.

“I said to myself, hey, I feel like the winner’s already chosen but we obviously don’t know, so I’m just going to go out there and play the best golf I can and see where I finish at the end of the day.”

The Hawaii win was just Ko’s second in five years.

She went 43 starts before victory No 15 at the 2018 Mediheal Championship in California and another 59 starts before victory No 16 in Hawaii.

“I was putting more pressure on myself and doubting myself,” Ko said.

“I’ve been very fortunate to have a very supportive family and team and friends that have just built the confidence in me. Sean gives me so many great wisdoms and builds that confidence in myself where at times I didn’t feel like I had it.”

So was victory No 16 especially sweet?

“I remember when I was sweet 16,” said Ko with a laugh.

“Not so long ago, actually. Obviously, waited a little while from my last one in San Francisco to this one, and I had waited a while for my 15th win at Mediheal as well. So, yeah, definitely nice.”

Over the five years since she was the best player in women’s golf, Ko has learned about much more than striking a golf ball.

“Because golf is such a huge factor in my life, I just looked down one road,” she said.

“This week, I’ve kind of had my blinds open and just enjoying being here. I think that’s almost helped me to be a little bit more relaxed. Just accept, if things go great, that’s great. If not, I can’t do much about it. I know when the times it doesn’t, it’s going to hurt, but those moments make me stronger.”

Part of Ko’s tumble from the top can be attributed to the talent that poured into women’s golf while she was No 1. After Ko won the 2014 rookie of the year, she was followed in that honour by Sei Young Kim, In Gee Chun, Sung Hyun Park, Jin Young Ko and Jeongeun Lee6 – all of whom have won majors.

Throw in Lexi Thompson, Brooke Henderson, Nelly and Jessica Korda, Danielle Kang, Nasa Hataoka, Ariya Jutanugarn and others and the playing field got a lot more difficult.

“I don’t think I ever felt like I didn’t love the game anymore,” Ko said. “I think there were times where you keep trying and things just don’t go your way. You doubt yourself and don’t know if what you’re working on is the right things.”

GOLF NEWS

Win No 16 on the LPGA Tour especially sweet for Lydia Ko

3

Ryan Fox goes back to back on Charles Tour A

n emphatic win in the Muriwai Open in Auckland provided Ryan Fox with consecutive wins on New Zealand’s Charles Tour.

Fox, from Auckland, carded a final round of eight under par 64 to finish 25 under par for the event, three shots clear of overnight leader Daniel Hillier, from Wellington.

Fox had scores of 65, 66 and 68 in the first three rounds and started the final day two shots behind Hillier. He began his final round in style with an eagle at the second to keep pace with the overnight leader. Hillier started with a pair of birdies of his own.

Fox then made bogey at the third to fall three shots back but kicked himself into gear with three more birdies on the front nine on the sixth, seventh, and ninth holes to trail Hillier by one with nine holes to go.

There were several key moments on the back nine which Fox managed to take advantage of. The first being a birdie at the 10th to catch Hillier and then again at the 12th where the momentum appeared to switch to Fox’s favour.

The European Tour winner made birdie at the 12th while Hillier could only manage bogey. Fox grabbed the tournament

Ryan Fox poses with his trophy following his win in the Muriwai Open in Auckland last month.

Photo credit: Golf New Zealand.

in the palm of his hands with a three-shot swing on the 15th with a birdie to Hillier’s double bogey after he lost a ball in the left trees. Fox would never look back.

He made further birdies at the 16th and 17th holes to get to 10-under for the day and have the course record in his sights.

Fox’s tee shot on the final hole drifted right and got stuck up a tree, but a double bogey at the last was good enough to

win the tournament, sponsored by Autex.

Fox said despite the annoying finish, he saved his best golf until last for the second week in a row. Fox had won the Gulf Harbour Open in Auckland the previous week.

“I hit it the best I’ve hit it all week today,’’ Fox said after the Muriwai win.

“I had the ball on a string and managed to hole a few putts and to be honest it

could’ve been even lower as well. Obviously, I had the double up the last and also had a few 10-footers throughout the middle of the round that I missed.

“Dan probably gave me a bit on the 15th and that was kind of game-over unfortunately, but I managed to do everything that I wanted to do which was great.”

Fox said there was plenty of good he can take from those last two weeks on the Charles Tour, sponsored by Jennian Homes. Not only does he have two trophies, but he also had finished 48-under par for those last eight competitive rounds.

“Being almost 50-under par for the last eight rounds of golf is definitely the best I’ve done and to be in contention two weeks in a row and execute how I’ve wanted to in both events is great. I can definitely take a lot from that.

Fox intended to return to the European Tour in May. Two cards for the PGA Tour of Australasia were also on the line during the Muriwai Open with Luke Brown and Luke Toomey both gaining status for 2022.

Wenyung Keh finished as the leading women professional in a tie for 14th at 11-under par.

The Charles Tour now takes a break for the winter, with the next event being the Mount Open in Tauranga in September.

Muriwai Open scores Scores from the Muriwai Open held in Auckland last month were:263 Ryan Fox (Royal Auckland and Grange) 65 66 68 64 266 Daniel Hillier (PGA New Zealand) 64 67 66 69 269 Kieran Muir (Omokoroa) 66 68 71 64 270 Ben Campbell (PGA New Zealand) 68 70 67 65 271 Dongwoo Kang (PGA New Zealand) 69 69 69 64 272 Luke Brown (PGA New Zealand) 66 70 71 65, James Hydes (Gulf Harbour Country Club) 68 69 66 69 273 Mark Brown (PGA New Zealand) 68 73 67 65 274 Luke Toomey (PGA New Zealand) 64 71 72 67 275 Matt McLean (Harewood) 71 68 71 65, Josh Geary (PGA New Zealand) 68 64 76 67 276 Tae Koh (Windross Farm Golf Course) 66 70 74 66, Fraser Wilkin (P, PGA New Zealand) 72 69 68 67 277 Kazuma Kobori (Rangiora) 68 71 71 67, Mark Hutson (PGA New Zealand) 67 70 71 69, Wenyung Keh (P) 68 71 68 70, Mako Thompson (Maraenui) 65 71 71 70 279 Jerry (Xiangming) Ren (P, Gulf Harbour Country Club) 73 68 67 71 280 Charlie Smail (Walton) 70 72 73 65, Pieter Zwart (PGA New Zealand) 70 71 71 68, Momoka Kobori (PGA New Zealand) 72 70 69 69, Sean Riordan (PGA New Zealand) 69 67 75 69 281 Jared Edwards (Royal Auckland and Grange) 68 68 76 69, David Klein (PGA New Zealand) 71 72 69 69 282 Sam An (Titirangi) 71 75 71 65, Joshua Bai (Akarana) 71 70 73 68, Chas Craig (Marlborough) 73 68 73 68, Mitchell Kale (Tauranga) 71 67 74 70, Jaeseung Na (Whitford Park) 72 67

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72 71, Gareth Paddison (PGA New Zealand) 67 74 70 71, Samuel Jones (Manaia) 72 69 70 71, Kerry Mountcastle (PGA New Zealand) 67 70 70 75 283 Johnny Tynan (PGA New Zealand) 69 75 71 68, Kit Bittle (Gulf Harbour Country Club) 69 68 78 68, Trent Munn (PGA New Zealand) 73 66 75 69 284 Jayden Ford (Judgeford) 75 69 72 68, Jordan Loof (PGA New Zealand) 67 74 75 68, Taylor Gill (PGA New Zealand) 67 70 75 72 285 Jake Meenhorst (Muriwai) 71 73 71 70, Ethan Jones (Manaia) 71 71 71 72, Jesper Bengtsson (North Shore) 73 69 71 72, Lachie McDonald (Marton) 66 68 78 73 286 Cameron Harlock (Royal Auckland and Grange) 72 72 76 66, Trevor Marshall (PGA New Zealand) 69 74 74 69, Logan Hooper (North Shore) 72 71 74 69, Stephen Liu (Whitford Park) 72 68 76 70 288 Matthew Latham (Redwood Park) 72 70 76 70, Mason Lee (PGA New Zealand) 73 70 70 75 289 Siyi Keh (P) 78 68 74 69, Sumin Kang (Wakatipu Junior) 70 75 73 71 290 Munchin Keh (P) 73 70 76 71 292 Shaun Campbell (Omanu) 71 74 78 69, Cameron Jones (Kiwi) 72 72 77 71 293 Harry Bateman (PGA New Zealand) 69 76 79 69, Tara Raj (Wanganui) 71 75 74 73 294 Dominic Barson (New Plymouth Inc.) 70 76 80 68, Jerry Song (Queenstown) 78 67 78 71 295 Daniel Freeman (Remuera) 70 73 77 75 296 Steven Heyes (PGA New Zealand) 73 73 74 76 297 Andrew Wright (Akarana) 71 71 81 74, Richard Lee (PGA New Zealand) 69 73 80 75 303 Adam Williams (Muriwai) 73 72 83 75 321 Michael Hobman (Helensville) 72 72 85 92

May 2021

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May 2021

5

Course record to Ryan Fox as he takes out Gulf Harbour Open

Ryan Fox set a new course record of 62 on his way to winning the Gulf Harbour Open, sponsored

by The Cubroom. Photo credit: Golf New Zealand.

R

yan Fox broke the course record when winning the Gulf Harbour Open at Whangaparoa, north of Auckland last month.

Fox fired a final round of 10-under 62 to finish at 23-under par for the tournament to win by a whopping seven strokes over

Josh Geary and local hero James Hydes.

The previous record of 63 had only been equaled two days earlier by Sam Jones of Taranaki in the second round of the tournament, sponsored by The Clubroom.

Fox had carded rounds of 67, 70, and 66 on the first three days and started the

final round a shot back of overnight leader Ben Campbell but quickly made his intentions clear with a birdie at the opening hole to tie Campbell’s lead.

He took command of the tournament on the second hole with another birdie with Campbell making bogey, and Fox would never look back.

He made pars at the third and fourth holes before making back to back eagles at the fifth and sixth holes to separate himself from the rest of the field.

He would par the remaining holes on the front nine and made the turn at six under par and hold a sizeable lead.

Fox began the back in similar fashion to the front nine, making three birdies on the trot on the 10th, 11th, and 12th holes to get to nine under for the day. He picked up another birdie at the 16th and needed to eagle the par five 17th and birdie the 18th to shoot the professional golfer’s dream number of 59. But he could only manage par up the final two holes.

Fox said it was special to win on New Zealand’s Charles Tour for the first time since 2014 and that he hit some great shots under some pressure.

“I felt like a score like this was coming,’’ Fox said.

“I played great in the first round with

the exception of one hole and played great yesterday but felt as though I left a lot out there.

“It was nice to get it going early and hit some great shots coming home. It’s a really nice feeling.”

The European Tour professional said the win was extra special being that it was not only in front of his home supporters, but his newly born three-monthold child.

“They both came out yesterday and the little one got a little bit sunburnt yesterday and Frazer [Bond] was nice enough to give them a cart to drive around the back nine today and it was really cool to see them out there.

“To have my first win with the little one was a really special feeling. She decided to wake us up at 4am this morning and I thought it was going to be one of those days but I think it might have been a good omen instead,” Fox said with a laugh.

Fox also said he had missed being back in New Zealand playing competitive golf.

Josh Geary and James Hydes finished in a tie for second at 16-under, with Wenyung Keh finishing as the lowest scoring woman at nine under and in a tie for ninth.

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Scores from the Gulf Harbour Open held in Whangaparoa, north of Auckland, last month were:265 Ryan Fox (Royal Auckland and Grange) 67 70 66 62 272 Josh Geary (PGA New Zealand) 69 73 65 65, James Hydes (Gulf Harbour Country Club) 70 71 64 67 275 Harry Bateman (PGA New Zealand) 64 72 68 71, Ben Campbell (PGA New Zealand) 69 69 64 73 277 Gareth Paddison (PGA New Zealand) 70 71 68 68 278 Mark Brown (PGA New Zealand) 70 71 69 68, Sam An (Titirangi) 72 70 65 71 279 Wenyung Keh (P) 69 73 71 66, Kit Bittle (Gulf Harbour Country Club) 72 71 70 66, Tyler Wood (Ngahinepouri) 69 67 74 69, Dongwoo Kang (PGA New Zealand) 72 68 69 70, Samuel Jones (Manaia) 72 63 72 72 280 Shaun Campbell (Omanu) 70 72 68 70 281 Taylor Gill (PGA New Zealand) 70 74 71 66, Joshua Bai (Akarana) 72 70 71 68, Richard Lee (PGA New Zealand) 71 74 67 69 282 Jared Edwards (Royal Auckland and Grange) 70 74 71 67, Jerry (Xiangming) Ren (P, Gulf Harbour Country Club) 70 75 68 69, Tae Koh (Windross Farm Golf Course) 70 70 73 69, Mason Lee (PGA New Zealand) 68 71 72 71 284 Darae Chung (Shandon) 69 75 70 70 286 Ethan Jones (Manaia) 73 72 72 69, Momoka Kobori (PGA New Zealand) 69 75 73 69, Kerry Mountcastle (PGA New Zealand) 75 68 70 73 288 Johnny Tynan (PGA New Zealand) 75 74 72 67, Cameron Jones (Kiwi) 72 70 75 71 289 Mitchell Kale (Tauranga) 76 73 71 69, James Tauariki (Te Puke) 75 73 67 74 290 Jim Cusdin (Tauranga) 75 70 75 70, Ka-

May 2021

zuma Kobori (Rangiora) 74 73 73 70, Kieran Muir (Omokoroa) 73 79 67 71, David Klein (PGA New Zealand) 70 72 72 76 291 Woonchul Na (PGA New Zealand) 73 76 70 72 292 Kyle Wong (Titirangi) 74 75 74 69, Jesper Bengtsson (North Shore) 78 68 76 70, Luke Brown (PGA New Zealand) 74 69 77 72, Luke Toomey (PGA New Zealand) 75 74 70 73 293 Munchin Keh (P) 75 75 72 71, Eunseo Choi (Takapuna) 71 77 71 74 295 Jaeseung Na (Whitford Park) 73 79 74 69, Charlie Smail (Walton) 76 72 75 72, Jessica Huang (Two Under Club) 73 74 75 73 296 Trent Munn (PGA New Zealand) 77 71 77 71 297 Logan Hooper (North Shore) 75 76 73 73 298 Stephen Liu (Whitford Park) 76 76 77 69, Cameron Harlock (Royal Auckland and Grange) 73 79 75 71 299 Jake Meenhorst (Muriwai) 79 71 78 71, Anna An (Muriwai) 74 77 73 75 300 Fraser Wilkin (P, PGA New Zealand) 75 72 80 73, Jerry Song (Queenstown) 75 76 75 74 301 Caitlin Maurice (Tauranga) 73 79 76 73, Sumin Kang (Wakatipu Junior) 73 75 77 76 302 Sieun Ha (Huapai) 74 76 75 77, Brian Lee (Wainui) 71 78 74 79 303 Shinju Aoki (North Shore) 73 79 78 73, Lachie McDonald (Marton) 72 77 79 75, Trevor Marshall (PGA New Zealand) 76 72 76 79 304 Tae Min Kim (Gulf Harbour Country Club) 75 75 80 74 307 Kelly Wu (Remuera) 75 77 72 83 323 Kahu Tataurangi (Remuera) 76 73 84 90

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Dream of playing Augusta National comes true for Garvey GOLF NEWS 8

C

anterbury golfer Amelia Garvey ticked off something that would be on most golfer’s bucket list when playing Augusta National as part of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.

The tournament is an invite-only event and Garvey got the call up based on her world amateur golf ranking last year. She was ranked 41st in the world at the time of qualification with the top 30 Americans and top 30 internationals all making the field. Last month she’s was ranked 27th in the world.

The first two rounds of the tournament were held at the nearby Champions Retreat Golf Club with the top 30 golfers making it to Augusta National for the final. All contestants were allowed a practice round at Augusta National the previous day.

Garvey missed the cut with rounds of 76 and 77 at Champions Retreat but she could only remain upbeat as she achieved a childhood dream of playing Augusta National.

“Obviously my goal was to come here and win the tournament and get my name on the trophy,” Garvey recalled afterwards.

“But as we know golf doesn’t always go to plan. I was really proud with how I carried myself over the last two days, I just made a couple of rookie mistakes and at this level there are very fine margins.

“Unfortunately play on the first day had to get suspended which meant I had to come back yesterday and finish my first round, but it is what it is. It’s been an amazing week and I got to live every golfer’s dream of playing Augusta today and I just tried to soak it all in and forget what had happened over the last two days.

“I just wanted to go out there today and recognise this is probably going to be one of the best days of

my life, which it was. I just wanted to be as present as possible and make the most of it.”

Garvey recognised playing Augusta National is not something every golfer gets to do in their lifetime and was thankful for the opportunity. The spirit of the tournament is to provide women with an opportunity which traditionally has just been for men.

“This is what this tournament is all about,” Garvey continued.

“There are 80 amazing girls playing this event and only one girl can win it. But the whole point of the tournament is to give back and showcase how good women’s golf is right now and give us the opportunity to play at places like this and compete against the world’s best.

“Playing with the girls today who had also missed the cut, and some of them are in the top 20 in the world, it just made me think that women’s golf is in such a good place right now and it made me appreciate it a little bit more which is what this tournament is all about.”

Garvey, a communications student at the University of Southern California, said seeing the holes you see each year at The Masters in the flesh was a surreal feeling, and it’s given her an appreciation of how good the world’s best are.

“Seeing number 12 was really amazing. That was the hole I always dreamed of playing as that’s where a lot of the drama happens when watching The Masters on TV. “I hit a seven iron in there today and you’ve literally got five metres of green to land it on and it’s so much smaller than when you watch it on TV. There is literally no bail out on that hole.

“I managed to put that on the green and make

May 2021

Amelia Garvey from Canterbury who played Augusta National last month.

par and I actually played Amen Corner at one-under par which I was really happy about. We played a proper round and I shot even par so I’m really stoked with the way I played.”

Garvey is now looking forward to play the US Women’s Amateur in New York in August before turning professional.

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Close calls at South Island Age Group Champs

By Neville Idour

S

umin Kang from Wakatipu Junior Golf Club in Queenstown was a popular winner of the under-16 title at the South Island Championships when she sank the winning putt on the 18th hole at the Otago Golf Club.

Conditions were anything but easy on the final day with heavy rain early, leaving surface water on some greens at times, along with bitter cold temperatures.

Some of the overnight contenders simply did not cope but Kang, sitting third beginning the day five shots off the lead, was playing with excellent control to be one under par and two shots clear after 13 holes. However an inexplicable out of bounds on the 14th led to a triple bogey and left her one behind Rianne Li (Akarana).

But a nice tee shot resulted in a birdie on the par three 15th hole to tie the lead.

Kang and Li traded pars on the 16th and 17th holes then came the drama on 18, a par four. Li’s approach shot rolled back off the green, leaving a lengthy uphill chip.

But Kang did not nail the opportunity and left her approach shot in the bunker. Li chipped about eight feet past the hole. Kang played a great bunker shot to within three feet. Li narrowly missed her putt while Kang sank hers to grab victory by one shot Kang finished with 72, 76 and 73 for a total of 221 for her three rounds. Li had 76, 71and 75 for a total of 222.

Amy Han (Titirangi) was third with 75, 74 and 76 (225). Fourth placed Yoonae Jeong, the outstanding 12-year-old Wakatipu Junior, had the best round of the day for the girls with a par 72 on the final day.

Kang was delighted with her win and said: “I was confident with my bunker shot on 18, but I was nervous about the

Golf booming in the south

By Nevillie Idour

T

he surge in popularity of golf in this covid-19 era caught many people by surprise.

But in reality it should not be so, as golf is the perfect sport given its environment and relative safety.

The situation in the southern regions is a reflection of the overall national state of the game. Golf memberships have risen dramatically from around 105,000 a year ago to in excess of 115,000.

These are unprecedented numbers for decades. So it is vital that the gains be built on with ongoing programmes to attract all age groups and, especially, women.

Otago Golf Club director Shelley Duncan has been a leader in taking advantage of Golf New Zealand’s she loves golf programme. With the emphasis on enjoyment with some friendly competition, it has attracted a huge response to the club’s summer Tuesday evening sessions.

“We have had over 60 along, sometimes 80, having plenty of fun then socialising in the clubhouse afterwards,” Duncan said.

She said these programmes are working much better than previously where the emphasis was more on individual driving range tuition.

“Now it is leading to new memberships and enjoyable social times. It is appealing to women under 35 years old looking for another sport and also older ones looking at golf as a recreation for retirement.”

Duncan also confirms the health of the club with membership numbers up 100 in 12 months and finances the best in 15

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years. Tee times are scarce if players do not book ahead.

St Clair Golf Club also runs similar women’s programmes and it also reports large increases in membership which now number over 700. The club is also in good shape financially and have many improvement plans in the pipeline.

Club professional Patrick Moore said: “We have had 80 new members since the end of the lockdown and are struggling to fit in lessons and keep up with repairs.”

The Alexandra Golf Club has also increased membership during lockdown and again since, along with a surge in visitor numbers. During the summer months, Alexandra would be up 100 percent, with lots of players from the North Island and neighbouring regions visiting.

One the busier clubs in New Zealand, Wanaka is also experiencing a significant visitor influx. Club professional Alan Rose said the worries caused by coronavirus had been well and truly alleviated.

On the other hand Jack’s Point has suffered as Australians made up 70 percent of its market. It has always been dependent on the overseas market so hopefully with the Australian bubble now available things will improve.

Millbrook and The Hills are both very busy with members and visitors enjoying the outstanding facilities and pristine environments.

These are undoubtedly exciting times for golf in New Zealand so it is incumbent on all administrators and clubs to present a welcoming, inclusive picture to all people who want to dip their toes into the wonderful world of golf.

last putt. I am looking forward to playing more Charles Tour events later in the year.”

The under-19 girls’ title went to Lizzie Neale (Nelson). She was coasting at three under par after playing 13 holes but despite falling apart and dropping six shots in the last five holes she still won by four shots with scores of 71, 77 and 75 for a total of 223. Maddie May (Clearwater) continued to battle with her putter to finish second on 227 after scores of 75, 74 and 78.

The under-19 boys’ battle was one of fluctuating fortunes as two-shot overnight leader Sam Marsters (Miramar) went from despair to triumph while St Clair’s Callum White, after a stellar second round 69, experienced the opposite.

Marsters had a 42 front nine with two double bogeys and two bogeys to fall off the pace as White took a one shot lead after nine holes. Three bogeys and a killer triple bogey on 14 undid White despite a

NEWS

brilliant flop shot from above and off the green on 18. It landed four feet short and rolled in for a most unlikely birdie.

Marsters recovered on the back nine with four birdies to clinch a one shot win with scores of 71, 71 and 74 for a total of 216 from Steven Liu (Whitford Park) who was steady and always close to the lead with 71, 74 and 72 for 217. White was third with 75, 69 and 75 (219).

Marsters said: “It was a long day but probably my best performance in one of these events.”

The under-16 title went to one of the favourites Joshua Bai (Akarana) who came from behind with scores of 74, 72 and 71 (217) to snatch a one shot win from overnight leader Zack Swanbrick (Napier) 73, 71 and 74 (218).

The tournament was a success and the players will look forward to returning to the same venue for the New Zealand Strokeplay Championships in November.

Nick Voke stuck in a different kind of hazard N ew Zealand golfer Nick Voke was nearly disqualified from a tournament in the United States after becoming stuck in an elevator at his accommodation.

Voke, 26, was playing in the Veritex Bank Championship on the Korn Ferry Tour in Texas last month when the incident happened.

He was up early on the Saturday morning to complete the last two holes of his second round, which had been suspended from the day before.

He and his caddie entered the lift at 6.13am when the elevator shut down between floors.

Voke contacted the Korn Ferry Tour chiefs to see what the protocol would be

May 2021

if he wasn’t able to make his tee time and was informed that he would be disqualified.

“We were standing up, we were honking everything, jamming on the door,” Voke said. “We were trying to pry the thing open and no luck.”

Eventually, after being trapped for 46 minutes, they were freed and rushed to the course for a brief warmup before playing the final two holes one-under to make the cut.

Voke, with the adrenaline still pumping, shot a superb 65 in his third round on the Saturday afternoon and followed that up with a final-round score of 73 to finish 46th.

Waihi Golf Club is a wonderful par 72, 5685m golf course situated amongst beautiful lush green surroundings, overlooking the Waihi Township and surrounding farm land. The course is expertly maintained and managed and will be a challenge whatever your skill level.

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Japanese golfer becomes first Asian to win at Augusta National GOLF NEWS Tsubasa Kajitani of Japan who won the Augusta National Women’s Amateur in the United States last month. Photo credit: Chris Trotman/Augusta National.

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apanese teenager Tsubasa Kajitani surprised even herself by scoring an historic victory in the second edition of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur in the United States.

The 17-year-old former Japan Junior Championship winner defeated American Emilia Migliaccio on the first hole of a sudden-death play-off at August National in Georgia.

In so doing she became the first Asian player to win at Augusta National – a feat former two-time Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship winner Hideki Mat-

suyama amazingly emulated at the following week’s Masters tournament.

Reflecting on her shock success, Kajitani said: “I can’t really imagine [the reception I will receive] when I’m back to Japan. But hopefully everybody is happy and will enjoy. I’m looking forward to going back to Japan.”

Kajitani sealed her success with a gutsy two-putt par from 45 feet on the 18th green and celebrated with a mini fistpump before exchanging hugs with her caddie and Migliaccio.

“To be honest, when I came to the

(United) States, I didn’t expect that I’m going to win the tournament. Then day-byday I have been confident and then I won the tournament,” added Kajitani, who returned rounds of 73 and 72 at Champions Retreat course before closing with an even par 72 over the hallowed fairways of Augusta for a one over par 217 total.

Six players – Pauline Roussin-Bouchard, Rachel Heck, Emma Spitz, Karen Fredgaard and second-round co-leaders Ingrid Lindblad and Rose Zhang – tied for third place, one stroke behind Kajitani and Migliaccio.

As a precocious 15-year-old, Kajitani finished joint 17th in the second edition of the Women’s Asia-Pacific Amateur in her home country in early 2019. That year, she was runner-up at the Australian Women’s Amateur Championship and tied for ninth in the Japan Women’s Open.

Her good form continued last year when she was runner-up at the Avondale Amateur in Australia and appeared in three Japan LPGA Tour events.

Kajitani, who began the week at 26th in the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR), entered the final round at Augusta National tied for fifth place. While others were jockeying for position and going through ups and downs, she remained steady and continued to quietly navigate her way around.

After a bogey on the par-three fourth

hole, Kajitani rebounded with birdies on eight, 14 and 15. But she ran into trouble with a three-putt double-bogey on the par-four 17th and thought that her hopes may have been dashed.

However, her caddie, Chad Lamsback, told her to shake it off and focus for only one more hole. She did, made par to tie Migliaccio with the clubhouse lead, then sat back to watch the final three groups finish.

The play-off returned to the 18th hole and Migliaccio hit her second shot right of the right greenside bunker. Her third found the bunker and she finished with a bogey five.

Migliaccio, 15th in the world amateur golf rankings, shot a two under par 70 and finished a full hour before the final group completed their rounds. She was pleased with how she played when she was done – she made five birdies on the day – but moment by moment, her name started creeping toward the top of the leaderboard without hitting a shot.

Although Migliaccio was pleased to find herself in a play-off, she was not pleased with her performance in it.

“It’s hard to bogey and lose to a par,” Migliaccio said. “If they birdie, it’s like, well, did everything I could. But I wanted to hit a better shot and felt good over the club and was happy to be in the fairway but it just didn’t work out.”

Just 25 mins from CBD and 15 mins from Porirua, Lower and Upper Hutt.

DISCOVER JUDGEFORD Play the country course next to the city!

Welcome to Judgeford Golf Club.

We extend a very warm welcome to visitors to our Club.

We take pride in our reputation as the “friendliest club in Wellington” and encourage you to visit our 18 hole course to experience our friendly, welcoming atmosphere first-hand. Our on-site team of professionals who provide golf and clubhouse services go that extra step to make your visit to Judgeford enjoyable. We are fortunate to enjoy a unique micro-climate in terms of weather patterns where often the weather variables are subtly different from the prevailing conditions in surrounding areas.

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May 2021

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Changing of the guard at Taieri Lakes

By Neville Idour

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his year has so far been a significant one for the Taieri Lakes Golf Club near Dunedin.

Centenary celebrations and the opening of two new holes have been followed by a changing of the guard at the helm.

Paul Barlow, after a nine year stint as general manager, has decided to retire.

His replacement is Michael Ormandy who is learning the ropes before Barlow leaves.

Barlow, originally from Balclutha, worked all over New Zealand but has been back in Dunedin for 30 years.

“I was general manager at St Clair Golf Club for 15 years and then came to Taieri,’’ Barlow recalled.

“Before golf I worked for a bank then the TAB for 23 years in various places.”

So what next?

“I am going to play some golf. I hope someone is going to teach me to play golf properly” he said, looking at Ormandy who is a NZPGA coach.

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Paul Barlow (left) who is passing over the reins to Michael Ormandy (right) at the Taieri Lakes Golf Club, near Dunedin.

As for Ormandy this new role is opening new horizons. An Oamaruvian, he has a strong golfing background having represented Otago as a junior. He was Otago Golf development officer from late 2015, then recently was assistant professional

to Shelley Duncan at the Otago Golf Club.

“This is an exciting opportunity for me,” Ormandy said.

“It has potential for development out here and trying to grow the revenue of the club and the membership at the same

NEWS

time. Mosgiel is a big catchment area with a growing population so I want to see a busier golf course to reflect that.”

When we spoke to Ormandy the course seemed quite busy. Ormandy agreed.

“Current membership is 380 with steady growth in the last two years. Also once I am settled I intend to do lessons and club fitting and offer more for the members in the pro shop.”

As for ideas for growing the membership Ormandy said: “I will look at getting more corporate days and events out here. Also working with Taieri College and the local community will be important,” Ormandy will also continue his important coaching work with the Dunedin Junior Golf Club.

As for the two new holes, a short par three and a short par four, they are both challenging with a new lake in play. They are an easy walk for the more mature members, having replaced two holes that were an uphill climb.

Faldo Series enters its 25th year

ollowing last year’s record-breaking season in Europe, the 25th Faldo Series Europe is set to kick off on July 12 at Brocket Hall in England, staging 10 events through the northern hemisphere summer with winners competing for a coveted invite to the 25th Faldo Series Europe Grand Final hosted at Abu Dhabi in November.

The new season celebrates a significant milestone for Faldo, a six-time major champion, who founded the series after his final third Master win in 1996 with a vision to create a junior golf legacy that lasts a lifetime and develops tomorrow’s champions. Twenty-five years on, the Series’ achievements now include: * Hosted over 45,000 aspiring junior golfers across the boys’ and girls’ categories; * Staged over 750 Faldo Series events worldwide * Visited 45 countries across six continents; * Produced over 70 professional Faldo Series alumni on global tours; * Celebrated a total of 84 European Tour and Ladies European Tour Faldo Series alumni wins; * Pledged support to an equal playing field as an R&A women in golf charter signatory.

Looking back on 25 years of growing the game, Sir Nick

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said: “The series has been my way of giving back to golf and celebrating just how great the game is.

“From day one it has been about creating unique experiences for juniors to be competitive, learn through competition and have fun while doing so. I’m honoured by the players who have made a huge effort to play in the events with great ambition every year.

“It has been a huge privilege to have played a part in supporting the game to grow all around the world.

To now be able to look back and celebrate how far we have come is hugely rewarding. In true series’ form, we are excited about what’s to come and we look forward to many more competitive seasons ahead with tomorrow’s champions.”

This year the Faldo Series has stepped up its North America series following the announcement of the Faldo Hurricane Series; a junior golf partnership formed between the Faldo Series and the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour.

The 26-event series will give juniors the opportunity to play on America’s finest golf courses and compete for an invite to the North America Grand Final at Barefoot Resort and Golf, which will air on CBS Sports.

May 2021

While the 2021 season is set to continue momentum for the Asia Series, which has supercharged the Faldo Series’ efforts to grow golf globally since launching in 2006, with a full calendar of events planned to run from August to November, culminating at Laguna Lang Co in Vietnam for the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final.

With eyes on a consecutive historic season ahead, Faldo Series Director Matthew Faldo said: “2020’s recording-breaking year will be a tough act to follow, but the upcoming season promises to be our biggest and best in all 25 years of the Series. We can’t wait to get back to the action after such a difficult year for everyone.

“To launch the Faldo Hurricane Series this year, too, is game-changing and presents great opportunities for young players in North America to experience the Series and take their game to the next level, whilst a return of a full calendar of events for Europe and the Asia Series sets up an exciting summer of junior golf ahead.” *The full schedule for the Faldo Series Europe and Faldo Series Asia can be found at www.faldoseries. com and for the Faldo Hurricane Series schedule head to www.faldohurricane.com.

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Faldo and Sunesson partnership recalled three decades later GOLF NEWS

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S

ir Nick Faldo and Fanny Sunesson were the most recognisable player-caddie partnership of the 1990s and arguably of all time.

Just months after coming together, they confounded the doubters when forming an unbeatable team at The Masters at Augusta National in the United States. Later that year, they combined to win the Open Championship at St Andrews in Scotland, cementing Faldo’s position as the world’s No 1 golfer.

The 1990 Masters triumph was especially historic and poignant on various fronts – a successful Masters title defence for Faldo and the first time a female caddie had ‘won’ a men’s major championship.

Three decades may have passed since those glory days, but the memories remain firmly implanted in the minds of Faldo and Sunesson, to this day the only female in the caddie hall of fame.

Inevitably, Faldo’s employment of

Fanny Sunesson and Sir Nick Faldo, a caddie-player combination from 30 years ago.

Sunesson raised eyebrows among their peers, media and golf fans. For Faldo, though, the only consideration was the Swede’s ability to caddie well.

“We just got on with it. Simple as

that,” Faldo recalled in an interview prior to last month’s Masters tournament at Augusta National.

“I didn’t see any fuss at all. I wasn’t making any statement. Now, 30 years

later, it would be looked at as a major statement.

“Honestly, in my mind it was a case of: This lady’s a very good caddie; we got on great and I thought it would be good for me. As simple as that.”

Faldo’s intuition that the partnership would work proved spot on, although in hindsight England’s most successful ever golfer acknowledges how remarkable that 1990 triumph was.

“It was the first time Fanny had been to Augusta National. I only learned last year that she hadn’t even seen it on TV. But the bottom line, was that it ended up being very good,” said Faldo, who went on to claim a third Masters green jacket in 1996 to accompany his three Open Championship victories.

Sunesson said: “It was amazing to work with him – and that we fit so well together. We’re both perfectionists.

For me, it was like a dream come true.

I was so lucky to get the chance. Nick and I became good friends and now we still are.”

Jacobsen mows through 100 years

acobsen mowers have been the glimpse of orange in the distance on golf courses and sports fields worldwide since 1921.

This year the company is celebrating 100 years in the turf industry.

While recognising the company’s milestones and achievements over a century, the focus on the future has never been stronger.

This began with the relocation of manufacturing to the Turf Care Centre of Excellence in Ipswich in England, where metal has been transformed into machines for 187 years at the factory.

The relocation was made to focus investment on people, skills, and mower production on a single facility and, after six months, the first fully built Jacobsen mower had been completed.

Despite the challenges facing the world in 2020, the United Kingdom and North America teams produced the HR800 wide area rotary mower – signalling an exciting start to the 100-year celebrations with more new products launching in 2021 with Jacobsen’s renewed pledge to product quality.

No one at the company expected the 100th year to

come off the back of one of the most challenging many have had. Business is being conducted in different ways, with face-to-face meetings virtually non-existent.

But this year, Jacobsen is excited to launch several new online experiences, including a new standalone Jacobsen website.

“As we move into our second century, we have a vast amount of exciting news and content to share including the launch of the new standalone Jacobsen website, and the introduction of the Eclipse 360 ELiTE and AR530,” said Simon Rainger, vice president of turf at Jacobsen.

“These are both very exciting products for us, and especially the Eclipse 360 ELiTE which is continuing our proud tradition of manufacturing battery powered machinery, but taking a big step forward using the latest lithium-ion technology.

“These machines and other events throughout the year will help us celebrate 100 years of Jacobsen, but I think it is important to recognise the profound impact covid-19 has had on 2020 from a personal and business perspective and recognise how well the Jacobsen team, and entire turf industry, has adapted and continued to operate.”

The familiar orange sight of a Jacobsen mower. Jacobsen has been operating for 100 years

The Jacobsen 100-year celebrations began in earnest at the end of January with the launch of the new website, containing all of the vital specifications for each product and videos that highlight key features and showcase what the mowers do best in the settings they work best in.

A challenging links course that is playable all year round!

“My NZPGA Trainee Professional, Tim Berry, and I always love playing at Ohope Beach Golf Links when we are up that way, it’s truly a great golf course. Again thank you for letting us on and for looking after us so well.”

Alan Hyatt, AAA Class NZPGA Golf Professional | Director of Golf | Manawatu Golf Club

Special green fees for groups of 12 players or more – call us to make a booking!

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May 2021

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Golf clubs encouraged to become leaders in their communities

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olf facilities should take the initiative in enhancing their reputations within the local communities in which they operate, says a specialist in agronomy from world golf governing body The R&A. “The R&A strongly advocates for individual facilities and golf associations to be proactive in sustainability, fostering nature, conserving resources and supporting communities,” said Chris Gray, head of sustainability & agronomy – Asia Pacific with The R&A. Gray urged golf clubs across the Asia-Pacific region to accentuate the positives at their facilities and sign up with the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) Foundation’s oncourse programme.

Gray said: “We believe that it’s important for commitments to be backed up by evidence of progress and results. This is why we have contributed to the establishment of oncourse, which is a support programme for golf facilities and a platform for industry associations, developed by the GEO Foundation.

“We believe oncourse is important to the long-term strength and viability of the sport at all levels and the key to improving golf’s image and reputation.”

Oncourse for golf facilities is an easy-

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to-use on-line application that’s been custom-built for golf courses, club managers, committees and staff to integrate sustainability across operations, generate new business opportunities and quickly establish the facility as a leader in their local community.

Gray said: “With oncourse, you’re able to review and evaluate current performance against industry best practices, gain new ideas and identify opportunities to enhance the course, save resources and money and generate new publicity.

“It’s also a great tool to gather and track key data and report on monthly and annual trends.”

Hailing from the Australian state of Victoria, Gray has more than 30 years of knowledge and experience having worked extensively as an agronomic consultant, golf course superintendent and golf course project manager in the Asia-Pacific, central Asia and Middle East regions.

Before assuming his Singapore-based role at The R&A last year, Gray held the position of director of agronomy and golf redevelopment at The Singapore Island Country Club and has been an agronomic consultant on a number of PGA Tour, European Tour and LPGA tournaments in the region.

Optimism from golf course architects, according to survey

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survey of golf course architects has discovered significant optimism for the next few years, with many design businesses expecting their turnover to return to, and in some cases exceed, pre-pandemic levels.

The European Institute of Golf Course Architects (EIGCA) asked its members about the impact of the pandemic on their businesses, and 86 percent said they felt the golf course design industry would stay the same (51 percent) or grow (35 percent) over the next few months compared with 2019.

More than half (57 percent), expect turnover in the next 12 months to be at least the same as it was in 2019, and this rises to 66 percent when looking at the next 24 months.

EIGCA members were most optimistic about projects in the Middle East, Africa and North America, forecasting this area would grow, while Central/South America is expected to see a decline in projects.

When asked about the challenges they face in the next 12 months, over half of members had concerns relating to safe travel, restrictions on the ability to meet clients face-to-face to progress works,

May 2021

and constraints on bidding for future projects.

Other key challenges included golf clubs not proceeding with projects and being hesitant to invest for the future, and ensuring a covid-safe workplace for employees. A handful of members even cited the challenge of how they would manage an increase in workload.

EIGCA president Christoph Staedler said: “This survey shows that a feared long-term negative impact from the covid pandemic on the golf industry has not been realised.

“Although one-fifth of EIGCA members reported a reduction in turnover of more than 50 percent compared to 2019, this is balanced by 48 percent experiencing either no impact or one that has been positive.

“The optimism expressed by our members signifies that the industry has been adversely affected by the covid-19 restrictions, but will be stronger than before when the pandemic is over. We golf architects are in a strong position to seize the opportunities ahead.”

The survey was conducted in February, with a 73 percent response rate from EICGA members.

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ALL OMANU / MT MAUNGANUI MEMBERS & VISITORS

37TH

KAIMAI CLASSIC 5TH & 6TH JUNE 2021 Queens Birthday Weekend

36 Holes (18 Each Day) All entries must be 18-Hole NZGA Affiliated Prizes will be Gross and Stableford

JOIN US 2021 Tournament Host

DETAILS Entry Fee $90 for Visitors and $65 for Omanu and Mount Members Tournament details and entry forms available from www.omanugolf.co.nz or www.mountgolf.co.nz Entries close 5pm 29th May 2021 All enquires to omanu@omanugolf.co.nz or 07 575 5957

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Tournament Sponsor

THE BEST FROM IAN HARDIE

ianhardie.net

How many birdie or par putts have you ever made with your golf bag?

By Ian Hardie NZPGA Professional

O

ne of the puzzling things about the game of golf and a fair amount of the golfers that play the game is the lack of thought that most golfers put into their golf equipment.

The golf equipment I’m referring to, are the shiny (mostly) metal things that actually allow the golfer to move their golf ball around the course that are commonly known as golf clubs.

It would be difficult to play the game without them wouldn’t it?

Yet, I’ve had countless occasions over the years, where I’ve been listening to a golfer tell me just how bad their golf is or how poor their scoring has been lately.

While they are standing in front of me with a very new looking golf bag (you can also add very expensive golf trundler in here as well) and a cheap, crappy or really old putter sticking out of it.

As soon as I see this, my question has always been.

How many birdie or par putts have you ever made with your golf bag?

You would be surprised to hear that most golfers, when asked that question (after the bit of time they need to work out what I’m asking) – answer.

‘None’.

Consider this for a minute – most standard par 72 courses are comprised of four par 3’s, four par 5’s and ten par 4’s and for ease of working out we are going to imagine that the golfer is going to hit every fairway in regulation, every green in regulation and two putt every green.

Let’s assume that maybe three of the par 4’s are short and or tight driving holes as well as one of the par 5’s.

So that means that the driver is going to be used for maybe ten tee shots.

And as it will most likely be a fairway wood or a hybrid of some sort that’s used on the other four tee shots, as well as maybe each of the second shots on the par 5’s.

We can assume that the total fairway wood shots in that round, will probably be eight.

There should be four iron shots (maybe a hybrid) played on the par 3’s as well as four wedge shots played into the par 5’s for the third shots.

The remaining ten shots would be played into the greens on the par 4’s with irons.

Which gives a total of eighteen iron (maybe a hybrid or two) shots.

Not forgetting, that in theory there are thirty six putts to be played.

Although to be honest, if you have a golfer hitting every fairway and every green in regulation – they are going to be pretty grumpy.

If they actually have 36 putts!

But back to the imagining, when looked at in terms of ‘par for the course’ the following percentages can be worked out.

The driver accounts for 13.9% The fairway woods are a further 11.1% The irons total usage is 25% And the putter 50% Although, these are the figures that relate to the course par.

In reality the figures for most of golfers look a bit different, as we are not taking

into account.

Any missed fairways or greens.

Penalties, hazards, three putts.

And all the other countless things that can happen on the golf course.

But if we use the rule of thumb that I traditionally have, which is that putting is about 40% of a golfers score.

In my mind it makes the purchase and cost of your putter, considerably more important than the golf bag (or trundler) that you use.

You might want to read that bit again by the way.

So, if 40% of your score is made with a putter and most golfers are aware that there are differences between cheap putters and good putters.

Which I know because when I ask them the question at the top of this article, they all answer: ‘It’s just a cheap / crappy / old putter – I’m going to get a good putter one day’.

Why do they buy the new golf bag (or trundler) first?

Which does such special things as holding the golf clubs, storing golf balls and tees, holding a drink and a snack……………

Wouldn’t it make more sense to buy the good putter first?

An extremely important part of their set of golf clubs that has the potential to quickly reduce their golf score and handicap!

Which for almost all golfers, makes them enjoy golf more.

Seems a bit odd – doesn’t it?

Play well.

If that idea found you questioning a few things about your golf game and you are one of those golfers that are telling everyone you know, just how bad your golf is or how poor your scoring has been lately – you might want to check this out: https://ianhardie.net/practical-golf-psychology-workshop/

Ian Hardie is Golfer Pacific’s Golf Professional contributor. He is Club Professional at Omanu Golf Club in Mount Maunganui. Ian’s time is split between the pro shop at the club and helping people to improve, while enjoying their golf more as a result of his golf coaching. Over the past few years, in an effort to help as many golfers as he can, Ian has been sharing his common sense golf advice with golfers around the world through his website golfhabits.com. With over 500 articles to read, it’s a great resource for any golfer looking to improve their golf game.

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May 2021

15

At the centre of a thousand journeys

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arrington is a grand estate just a few short hours from Auckland. Boasting a 3000-acre estate on the pristine and picturesque Karikari Peninsula, is a world-class beach-side escape, a million miles from everyday life and a unique New Zealand resort.

Along with the hillside vineyards of Karikari Estate, spectacular accommodation options and stunning restaurant, Carrington also has the most amazing ocean-side 18-hole championship golf course.

American golf course designer Matt Dye designed the Carrington Golf Course which is 6417 metres in length, par 72, and encompasses a variety of terrains from rolling vales to challenging water holes.

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And the views from every hole are mind-blowing.

Carrington Estate’s CEO, William Tan said: “The golf course is at the heart of the estate and is regularly listed as one of the top 20 golf courses in the country.”

Spectacular views of the golf course, wetlands, Northland beach and ocean beyond are visible from the clubhouse and lounge complex.

The clubhouse is on a high ridge in the middle of the golf course to take full advantage of the unique combination of vistas.

Carrington Resort has a variety of accommodation options available onsite from the spacious lodge rooms, the three-bedroom self-contained villas to the luxury houses located a short drive

May 2021

from the main resort. Take advantage of our discounted ‘Stay & Play’ packages to experience all there is on offer at Carrington Estate.

Enjoy post-golf drinks in the Calypso Bar at the main resort followed by a unique dining experience at Carrington Restaurant which is also open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner. The Restaurant offers attentive service and genuine hospitality, delivering rustic and honest New Zealand-inspired fare. We focus on sharing our passion for food with our guests. Our mission is staying true to our belief in provenance and providing seasonal, sustainable, and locally sourced produce. Carrington Restaurant provides a space for you to feel relaxed whilst taking in the stunning views.

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If golf is not on the cards, be tempted by the many activities onsite & in the local area. Relax in the heated infinity swimming pool, challenge yourself with a game of tennis or some clay target shooting on the Olympic specification shooting field, situated in the middle of Carrington Farm. Other activities in the area include horse-riding, hik-

ing, kite surfing or just exploring the many pristine beaches on the peninsula.

Carrington Estate also boasts New Zealand’s northern most vineyard & winery, Karikari Estate. The boutique winery produces intensely flavoured & stylish award-winning wines. The Cellar Door is open all year round for wine tasting and wine sales. After your wine

tasting head to the winery restaurant and enjoy delicious food & glass of wine whilst taking in the mesmerizing views.

Carrington Estate is also popular for conferences, weddings & events, accommodating up to 130 guests in the enchanting Barrell Hall and up to 100 guest’s theatre style in the purpose-built Conference Room.

For more information visit www.carrington.co.nz or call 09 408 7222 WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

May 2021

17

On Road with New Zealand Champions

IGANZ Kids

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GANZ Kids have been growing for 5 years with ‘ Give It A Go ‘ events, and now there’s more opportunity to DRIVE kids further with local championships .

In celebration of our littlest champs, the New Zealand Long Blacks (tee boxes) are set for North Island and South Island XDL (Kids) Champs 2021. Sponsor, JP Liebenberg from Cavalier Homes (Waikato) is fully invested in growing the sport of XDL (Xtreme Drivers League) and with this the New Zealand XDL Championship is giving our young drivers the opportunity to be inspired by another sport code which at the same time is encouraging

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he New Zealand Long Blacks are in full swing with major sponsor Cavalier Homes Waikato, thanks to JP Liebenberg. “Walking the Red Carpet at the ISPS Handa Halberg Awards - Decade Champion 2021 was made more special as we were walking it with JP who has been the most engaged sponsor we could hope for”, said Olna Ford, Founder & Owner of New Zealand Long Blacks. In celebration of 5 years growing the sport of Xtreme Drivers League and appreciation of national team sponsor - Cavalier Homes Waikato, the New Zealand Long Blacks are set to DRIVE about the Waikato to engage with the community. A special GREEN of interest is AMBER VIEWS, the address of JP’s most recent Land & Home packages and the destination where our National Champs will be taking some celebrities for some driving lessons and dig-

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Golf. IGANZ Kids events will be promoted through Golf Clubs and schools all around New Zealand with updates to events being seen on the IGANZ Kids page (click here) https://iganz.co.nz/ kids/ Registration is now open.

Inspiring kids to participate in sport is the key message as IGANZ Kids take to the tee. The New Zealand Long Blacks will be seen in the community to inspire our little champions and promote the sport. Celebrating 5 years of growing IGANZ Kids with continued thanks to sponsor Fruit Guys who have fuelled our kids events since 2016.

ging up some turf. “I hear there’s plenty of talent in the Waikato, so our scouts are expecting to register drivers for the XDL North Island Championships 2021”, said Olna Ford. The New Zealand Long Blacks are ready to roll up their sleeves for JP so you might strike it lucky and have some finishing touches to your house from the Men In Black if you are the fortunate owners of a Cavalier Homes Waikato - Home and Land package @AmberView the destination our champions will be proud to call home.

Keep checking out Cavalier Homes Waikato facebook page for information about the On Road Show with the New Zealand Long Blacks and your chance to get your VIP pass to the Cavalier Homes (Waikato) North Island Champs 2021 www.facebook.com/CavalierHomes-Waikato-102497141175385

May 2021

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XDL Club events are launching in FULL SWING Everglades Golf Club

The Star

21 January 2021

Mark

Tracy

9x2

MS8585 2017) taking claim to a back to back win against Australia in 2018 + 2019/2020 summer season.

“New Zealand Long Drive and Xtreme Drivers League will be scouting the country for talent to represent our nation on the world stage and as national sports organisation for the sport of XDL and Long Drive, we have the privilege of submitting New Zealand Champions for major sporting awards”, said Olna Ford, CEO & President of New Zealand Long Drive, Xtreme Drivers League and Owner of New Zealand Long Blacks.

Get your club registering their interest at https://iganz.co.nz/clubs/ and be part of the 5th year celebrations of growing the sport of Xtreme Drivers which has put New Zealand at the forefront of sports history for XDL and Long Drive.

If your club hasn’t yet registered interest, get in touch! #GolfJustGotLoud

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aking to the tee from May 2021 is the XDL (Xtreme Drivers League) club qualifiers. Working with clubs all around New Zealand to find the longest and fastest drivers. All events held by clubs will be qualifiers for the National Championship + North & South Island Champs, thanks to sponsor JP Liebenberg (Cavalier Homes - Waikato) The sport of Xtreme Drivers League is now officially recognised as a high performance sport thanks to sporting authorities who have recognised the dedication and investment made to grow the sport independently from Golf. IGANZ has created sports history for New Zealand and owns the national sports body of New Zealand Long Drive and International Collective, of Xtreme Drivers League.

The National team of Xtreme Drivers (New Zealand Long Blacks) are already famous and recognised as the first official National Team for the sport (est.

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Everglades Country Golf Club

637 Marshland Rd. 637 Marshland Rd, Christchurch

New Members and Green fee players welcome 9 holes $10.00 18 holes $20.00

Pay for 5 games and receive the 6th game free The course is open every day except Saturday from 12 noon to 4pm Details are available for both at the club house phone 323 8641 or the Secretary phone 323 7678 Email: evergladescgc@xtra.co.nz WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

May 2021

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Golf New Zealand Women’s Masters 2021 GOLF EVENT

GOLF NEW ZEALAND WOMEN’S MASTERS Northland Golf Club 9 – 11 April

BAY OF PLENTY / THAMES VALLEY BACK IN THE WINNERS CIRCLE

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espite a weather affected tournament, the Bay of Plenty / Thames Valley Masters team have clocked up another win, in the 28th Women’s Masters.

The win yesterday was the Bay’s 6th, their last being in 2003 at Te Awamutu. Their 1997 win was also played at the tough, challenging Northland Golf Course, host this year.

The Bay team led by Heather Keefe was in control from the first round, played in good conditions on Friday 9 April.

Keefe contributed 28 gross stableford points, and with Diana Syer’s 34 and Nikki Kirsopp’s 30 they had 92 points after day one. Judy Cameron the non-scorer with 21 points.

Local favorites Northland were placed 8 shots behind.

Jenny Peters and Samantha Dangen both scoring 25 points, with the captain, Kylie Jacoby top with 34. Alayna Cox the non-counting card, 24.

Auckland were placed 3rd overnight with 83 points and North Harbour with 82, 4th.

Back one further shot were Waikato on 81.

So, 8 shots to chase which in the end proved too tough to catch as play was affected on Saturday and abandoned

Northland Women’s Masters Team

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BOP Women’s Masters Wining Team

mid-morning. Saturday is the day that the teams get to tough it out over 36 holes allowing typically the greatest movement possible, as has been the history of the tournament.

Not this year. Over 75mm of rain fell in a horrendous day in the far north and despite an early start, organisers were forced to call it quits when the course became unplayable, unsafe and water-logged.

The tournament became a 36-hole challenge, and only the 2nd time in its 28-year history that play jeopardized the 72-hole format.

The Bay held on, in a bril-

liant steamy sunny Sunday adding 80 points to their first round, and a total of 172.

“Not the way we envisaged winning’ said Captain Keefe “but we’ll take it’.

Final counting cards for the Bay on Sunday were Keefe 25 and Cameron with 26, Kirsopp the non-counter, 23.

NZ Tasman team representative Diana Syer carded a 29, a total of 63 individual points, winning the Canterbury Shield for the top placed individual.

Local hopes were of course on Northland but sadly they came up 6 shots short. Winners in 2017, the last 4 years they have been well placed and finished 3rd in 2019. The tournament was not played in 2020, cancelled due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Waikato will be well placed with their round yesterday, finishing 3rd with 162 points.

The team included regulars Jill Morgan, Robyn Pellow, Sian Stevenson and Julie Gee. The 2021 placing was one better than 2019, where they finished 4th.

The defending champions Canterbury, Naomi Wallace and Jo Kent joined by newbies Rachel Eder and Sally Rossiter couldn’t replicate their 2019

May 2021

winning ways finished 4th with 160 points.

Both North Harbour and Auckland will be disappointed slipping back from their Friday placing to be 5th and 7th respectfully at the end of the tournament. Harbour improved on their 2019 placing but out of the medal mix for 2021.

Harbour led again by Vaha Fapiano had a new look team with Carolyn Cressey, Rebecca Barrow and Sala Bishop now joining this typically competitive group. Auckland missing long time district representative Brigit Holford, not available due to injury was made

up of Sian Kelly, Allison DrakeWells, along with Linda Creedy and Scarlett Jeon.

One of the biggest movers was Otago, who set out with clear goals to improve on their 2019 - 14th placing. Liz McRae stated the aim and with Tracey Storer, Pauline Hogue and Jackie Hamilton made the trip home satisfied with their 5th equal placing with North Harbour.

Taranaki and Southland finished with 153 points, joint 8th placing. Taranaki had recorded their only win in the 2007 Masters, when the tournament was last hosted in the far north.

Southland has been a winner 6-times, still chasing their 7th win. They had finished 5th in 2019, so dropped back 3 places.

Tasman finished with 152 points in 10th place, up 2 from 2019 and Manawatu / Wanganui 5 shots back with 147 points. They are ranked 11th out of the 14 districts.

Wellington finished with 140 points, Hawkes Bay / Poverty Bay with 132 and Aorangi with 124, struggling with 3 players in the final round when Linda Brown had to withdraw with injury.

This tournament remains a favorite with many senior women and has retained the initial format of scoring, best 3 of 4 gross stableford points over 4 rounds.

The tournament is due to move to the South Island in 2022, Golf New Zealand yet to confirm the venue.

Waikato Women’s Masters Team

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May 2021

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GOLD COAST AND SUNSHINE COAST F E AT U R E

Tourism bodies state Kiwis preferred 4-5 of Australian destinations are in Queensland, including Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast.

Book today with our specialist and trusted golf travel companies.

GOLF ENCOUNTERS – GOLD COAST AND SUNSHINE COAST HOLIDAYS READY FOR GOLF - AUSSIE OR NZ?

The Travel Bubble is open! How about escaping to Aussie for some warmth of the Queensland sun? Golf Encounters has a selection of 8, 14 or 28 night golfing holidays for you to choose from. Or should you prefer to stay nearer to home, our Golf Getaways around New Zealand will get you out and about.

Recently Golf Encounters conducted a survey amongst their database to find out how quickly their clients would travel to Australia again once the bubble opened, providing there was no quarantine on the return to NZ. 56% of respondents said they would travel either straight away or within a few months.

This is greatly encouraging, as Golf Encounters has normally run golfing holidays in Queensland during the New Zealand winter and they are excited about

resuming these in 2021. They offer a 14 night golf holiday to Coolangatta in the last half of July, followed by a choice of an 8 or 14 night golf holiday on the Sunshine Coast in early August. For those who want to escape for a month, a combined package of staying in both centres is also offered.

These fully hosted packages ensure you have a hassle-free and relaxed time, staying in 1 or 2 bedroom self-catering accommodation based in Coolangatta or Mooloolaba. There are restaurants right outside your accommodation or full facilities in your apartment for those who wish to dine in. There are golf courses aplenty in these parts of Queensland and all of a great standard.

With 8 rounds over two weeks with never more than two rounds played on consecutive days, these holidays will allow

you to enjoy a holiday, your golf and in the warmth of the winter Queensland climate.

For those who would prefer to wait until next year before travelling overseas, Golf Encounters has a range of 6 night Golf Getaways around New Zealand this Spring. Whilst the Getaways that cover marquee courses around the country (e.g. Jacks Point, Cape Kidnappers etc) will always be popular, GE have introduced two new Getaways to the regions.

This Spring Nelson & Taranaki are on offer, playing on some of our great country courses, and what a delight they are!

Getaways are normally based in a central hotel, include breakfast each day and include a day off from golfing mid week so that you can explore the local area and visit local attractions. These Getaways run consecutively in October and No-

vember, so clients have the opportunity to join more than one Getaway if they are looking for a longer break.

Whether you are ready for Aussie or to enjoy more golf in New Zealand, Golf Encounters has a great selection of fully hosted golfing holidays for you – just go to www.golfencounters.co.nz for more information.

golf courses and was built to be enjoyed by golfers of all abilities.

It is a joy to play – and, because of its network of cart paths, it can be played even on those rare days that rain does fall.

Hamish Robertson, a Kiwi who for years carved out a living playing golf on the Australian and New Zealand tours, loves it so much he landed a job at Noosa Springs as a teaching professional.

Noosa Springs is more than just a great golf course. Its attractions include a world class spa, tennis courts, a wellstocked golf shop, superb restaurant and bar overlooking the course, and a fitness centre.

There’s a range of superb apartment-style accommodation, befitting a resort that last year was named a finalist in the Queensland Hotels Association excellence awards.

The golf shop has become such a draw for fashion conscious golfers that women – and more than a few men – save up

each year to splurge on the shop’s exclusive apparel and accessories during their Noosa Springs visit.

There’s so much to do at Noosa Springs that you never have to leave the property.

But if you do, Hastings St – one of the world’s most recognisable shopping strips – is just a short drive from the resort. So is Noosa’s famous surf beach, and the pristine Noosa national park, with its convenient walking paths and superb scenery.

Nearby, the world renowned Eumundi markets attract thousands of visitors each Wednesday and Saturday, and Steve Irwin’s famous Australia Zoo is just down the road at Beerwah.

All this less than four hours from Auckland. No wonder more Kiwis visit the Sunshine Coast each year than from any other nation.

Peter And Marion Cox - Golf Encounters

NOOSA SPRINGS – WHERE KIWIS COME TO PLAY

There’s a reason it’s called the Sunshine Coast.

The Queensland tourism region, with 300 days of sunshine each year and a superb coastline on which to enjoy them, has become a second home for thousands of Kiwi visitors.

About 70,000 New Zealanders visit the Sunshine Coast each year – many of them attracted by the direct Air New Zealand flights from Auckland to Maroochydore that operate between July and October.

And, while they come for the weather, events and attractions, restaurants

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and shops, the laid back lifestyle and the friendly welcome, an increasing number of Kiwis are lured by the quality and accessibility of the Coast’s golf courses.

Golf tourism is one of the region’s fastest-growing sectors.

And the best of the courses is Noosa Springs, set amidst the stunning bushland of the Noosa hinterland, only five minutes from Noosa Heads.

Noosa Springs’ 18-hole championship layout, lush and green with manicured fairways and true greens, features consistently on the list of Australia’s top 100

May 2021

» www.noosasprings.com.au

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READY FOR GOLF AUSSIE OR NZ? .

The Travel Bubble is Open! How about escaping to Aussie for some golf in the warmth of the Queensland sun? We have a selection of 8, 14 or 28 night Golfing Holidays for you to choose from. Should you prefer to stay at home, our Golf Getaways visit some new destinations as well some favourites this Spring. Either way, our fully hosted packages ensure you have a hassle-free and a relaxed time.

QUEENSLAND 2 CENTRE GOLF HOLIDAY

COOLANGATTA GOLF HOLIDAY

SUNSHINE COAST GOLF HOLIDAY

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RAIL TRAIL & QUEENSTOWN GOLF ESCAPE

NELSON GOLF GETAWAY

NAPIER GOLF GETAWAY

TARANAKI GOLF GETAWAY

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OCTOBER

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TASMANIA GOLF TOUR FEBRUARY/ MARCH

JULY / AUGUST

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0800 377 479

Golf Encounters - Travel Encounters t/a Golf Encounters. Travel Encounters Ltd is an approved Travel Broker for the Travel Managers Group Ltd. The Travel Managers Group is a bonded member of IATA.

FREEPHONE OR VISIT GOLFENCOUNTERS.CO.NZ

F E AT U R E

SUNSHINE&GOLFING

The naturally refreshing SUNSHINE COAST, where you will experience a laid-back lifestyle centred around pristine beaches, freshwater rivers and lakes, subtropical forests and warm sunshine.

From the naturally stylish Noosa, to the family fun of Coolum, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba and Caloundra, to the cool and creative hinterland villages of Maleny, Montville and Mapleton.

Any destination you choose for your Sunshine Coast holiday will fill your body, mind and soul with an enduring sense of warmth. And the Golf is great too! So take your clubs and escape the Winter Blues.

PELICAN WATERS GOLF CLUB NOOSA’S ONLY NATURE RESERVE WITH A CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE ATTACHED The Noosa region, with its beautiful beaches, lush green hinterland, stunning coastal national park, pristine river, cosmopolitan lifestyle and lively calendar of events is one of the most popular beachside holiday locations in Australia.

Located on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Noosa is surrounded by ocean, lakes, river, national parks and a lush hinterland. But it’s more than just another beachside holiday spot. What makes Noosa special is its laidback atmosphere and year-round warm and sunny climate, combined with award-winning restaurants and cafes, a great choice of accommodation and a diverse range of activities and adventures for everyone.

There is also a busy calendar of events that celebrate the best in surfing, food, sports, music, theatre, creativity and more. Noosa offers a diverse and wonderful experience for everyone who visits.

The region is renowned for its award-winning restaurants and cafes, with an abundance of fresh, local and delectable produce prepared by dedicated and experienced chefs. From casual, alfresco dining and first-class restaurants to pubs and cafes, and produce markets, a culinary experience is guaranteed on any visit.

If you love nature and the outdoors, Noosa is a perfect destination with unspoilt beaches, stunning national parks, excellent fishing and trails that traverse the hinterland and are suitable for walking, horse-riding and mountain biking.

Indulge in diving, surfing, stand-up pad-

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dle boarding, golf, fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, kite-surfing and more.

For those wanting a more relaxed and chilled-out experience Noosa is also home to many superb day spas and health retreats.

Nestled in this paradise you’ll find picturesque Noosa Golf Club. Enjoy the beauty of this 18-hole championship course in a natural parkland setting with an abundance of local wildlife at your side. Families of kangaroos laze in the sun and koalas can be spotted snoozing in the trees. Unlike players, the koalas actually like being in the trees! The course is said to be very forgiving with 6000+ metres of easy walking and wide fairways. Still, it’s no pushover and can be a challenge to golfers of all levels.

After playing 18, the perfect place for relaxing with friends is at the clubhouse.

The 19th hole offers a fine bistro and relaxing deck to take in the superb view over the ninth and 18th holes.

Noosa Golf Club celebrates the camaraderie of golf with the best value green fees, membership and hire charges on the Sunshine Coast. Golfing great or just a beginner, we warmly welcome you to our club.

Noosa is just 1½ hours from Brisbane’s international and domestic airports, or just 30 minutes from Sunshine Coast Airport which has daily flights from Australian capital cities and direct flights from New Zealand.

For further information visit www.noosagolf.com.au and for accommodation www.visitnoosa.com.au

Located just one hour north of Brisbane in the stunning surrounds of Golden Beach, it was the first Greg Norman-designed course on the Sunshine Coast.

Open to the public and designed to rank among the premier courses (ranked No.1 on the Sunshine Coast and No.16 in the top 100 public access courses in Australia, according to Golf Australia Magazine), this spectacular 18-hole, 6359m championship course fittingly boasts one of the finest clubhouses and practice facilities in Australia. Pelican Waters features an impressive driving range, practice putting and chipping greens, and a well equipped shop. Find out more at: » www.pelicangolf.com.au

HEADLAND GOLF CLUB

line, and within easy reach of Brisbane, Headland provides exceptional golf and hospitality experiences to members and visitors alike. With its rolling and treelined fairways and pure greens, the historic par-72 championship course offers a layout to challenge the best of players, while providing a fair and invigorating test for golfers of all abilities. It is this combination of challenge and enjoyment that makes Headland a top-rated golf course and must-do for visiting golfers.

The traditional clubhouse experience is equally as memorable, with popular restaurant Vista@Headland offering excellent food and stunning views in a relaxed dining experience. Open for lunch 7 days a week, and Friday night’s for a special a-la-carte menu, you can enjoy a great day out at Headland Golf Club. The idyllic location also provides the perfect setting for a wedding or function. For more information or to make a booking please call +617 5444 5800 or email golf@headlandgolfclub.com.au. » www.headlandgolfclub.com.au

TWIN WATERS GOLF CLUB The course is internationally recognised as one of the top six resort courses in Australia and members naturally consider it the best on the Sunshine Coast.

The 18-hole, par 72 championship course was designed by five-times British Open champion Peter Thomson and partner Mike Wolveridge.

The stunning setting and challenging layout combine to produce an enjoyable game of golf for all players. Visit their website for full details: » www.twinwatersgolfclub.com.au

Located in the heart of Queensland’s magnificent Sunshine Coast, Headland Golf Club is the region’s premier golf club and home to an outstanding 18-hole championship course. Beautifully positioned on the hills of Buderim, overlooking the spectacular Sunshine Coast coast-

May 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

ABOVE PAR GOLF TOURS

F E AT U R E

ABOVE PAR GOLF TOURS, one of the region’s leading tour operators, is owned by a fellow Kiwi, Mike Cox. The Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast are undoubtedly the favourite winter golf destinations for Kiwis, and having spent 20 years in the depths of Southland, Mike can fully understand why.

“Our aim is to simplify your holiday by taking over all of the accommodation, golf and transport bookings on your behalf, and at the same time using our bulk buying power to provide the package cheaper than you can do it yourself – a classic win-win situation,’’ he said.

“Packages are tailormade for your individual requirements with a large selection of accommodation and courses available to suit any budget.’’

The company offers outstanding value packages for small and large groups, and provides a comprehensive website with slideshows of all golf courses.

The website also has a unique online quote system which means you can go on-line 24 hours a day, seven days a week and construct your own dream holiday from a wide range of accommodation, resort courses, hire cars or daily transfers.

Once the selections are made, a no-obligation quote is immediately emailed, saving hours of time and money contacting Australia.

Mike’s sales staff then work on a oneto-one basis with you to ensure a truly memorable holiday for all.

For full information visit: » www.abovepargolf.com.au or call Mike on 0061 7 5522 9055

PERIGIAN GOLF COURSE AND DRIVING RANGE Peregian Golf Course and Driving Range: a premier pay-to-play golf venue on the Sunshine Coast.

Located just 7 minutes north of Coolum and 12 minutes south of Noosa, the Peregian Golf Course is a highly ranked park-land style golf course open to the public 7 days a week. We have relaxed dress regulations to ensure that all golfers and visitors are made to feel welcome

at the course and driving range. Families and juniors are encouraged to enjoy the wonderful facilities including the Par Bar where you can relax and watch the sports channels provided.

Whether you’re a keen golfer, casual golfer or not even a golfer at all, have a browse through our website and see what your piece of Peregian will be.

» www.peregiangolf.com.au

PACIFIC HARBOUR GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Conveniently located in the Moreton Bay region between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, is the home of Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club at Bribie Island. Surrounded by pristine national parks, and inhabited by plenty of local wildlife, this course is one that you’ll want to add to your bucket list!

Operating since 2006 and open to the public, we offer social play 7 days a week and visitors are welcome to play in our competitions. The course boasts lush green fairways, responsive fast paced greens, challenging par-3s, lengthy par4s and some rewarding par-5s for golfers of all levels. With an aquatic driving range, chipping area, practice green and spectacular views of natural surrounds, this course is a must-see destination. You will not regret coming out and testing your golfing skills on this beautiful hidden treasure!

Not only does the club boast a stunning course, the beautiful clubhouse was designed so that it appears to be floating, offering a scenic view over the course from The Deck Bistro, with lunch available 7 days a week from 11am and dinner Friday and Saturday evenings. » www.pacificharbourgolf.com.au

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May 2021

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Create Your Own Dream Holiday Online GOLD COAST • SUNSHINE COAST

LINKS HOPE ISLAND | SANCTUARY COVE | LAKELANDS | BROOKWATER | GLADES | PALMER COOLUM | NOOSA SPRINGS | TWIN WATERS | PELICAN WATERS AND MANY MORE

INSTANT ONLINE QUOTES 24/7 Let us arrange all your discounted accommodation, golf and transport needs

For INSTANT QUOTES & unbeatable deals visit www.abovepargolf.com.au

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M a y 2 0 2 1• Email: michael@abovepargolf.com.au 27 Tel: +61 7 5522 9055

GOLD COAST GOLFING

It’s time to escape the cold weather and take a trip abroad to Australia’s sunshine state! With plenty of courses on offer, a Gold Coast golfing holiday might just be your perfect paradise.

F E AT U R E commencing their back nine on the challenging 10th tee with water all up the left hand side of the fairway.

Neat dress code is required at all times with strictly no denim or cargo pants permitted, collared shirt and enclosed footwear is a must while on course.

For more information please contact us on: proshop@lakelandsgolfclub.com. au or call 011 61 7 5510 6507

LAKELANDS GOLF CLUB » Travel Info: From Broadbeach 10 minutes » From Surfers Paradise 15 minutes » Website www.lakelandsgolfclub.com.au

SITUATED in the heart of the Gold Coast, Lakelands Golf Club is Jack Nicklaus’ first signature course designed in Australia. Lakelands Golf Club combines the traditions of Golf and Hospitality by providing its members, guests and visitors with the environment, facilities and services that satisfy their Golf, social and business needs and interests. Opened on 17th February 1997, Lakelands Golf Club had gained a reputation for “The Best Serving the Best” providing standards and facilities second to none on the Gold Coast. Multiple tee positions make the course user friendly and yet challenging, whatever the standard of golf you play.

Nicklaus has used bunkering extensively in his strategic design and water features on many of the course’s 18 holes.

With tee times available to the public every day at Lakelands Golf Club, it is a must to play this golf course which has all of the tell tale signs you would expect of Jack Nicklaus designed Golf Course which is situated in the heart of the Gold Coast, less than 10 minutes from Broadbeach and 15 minutes from Surfers Paradise.

Lakelands also has full locker room facilities, Golf Shop, Signature Restaurant and Bar, a full length driving range, PGA certified coaches available each day, along with all the other facilities you would expect a facility of this reputation to have.

Whether you are here for a trip away with good friends, or on a holiday, Lakelands Golf Club is a course you must visit for a game on our beautifully presented course, making sure to enjoy a drink on the deck while overlooking those behind finishing out on the 18th green, or

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LINKS HOPE ISLAND GOLF COURSE » Holes: 18 Par: 72 Metres: 6,457 » Designer: Peter Thomson » Ranking: 6th best Public Access Course in Australia 2005 (#6 in 2004) » Course Facilities: Practice Range, Putting Green, Club hire Locker Room, On Course refreshments, Golf Academy » Travel Info: From Brisbane 50mins » From Broadbeach 35mins » From Surfers Paradise 30mins » Website: www.hir.com.au

LINKS HOPE ISLAND is a gem of an 18 hole traditional “links” style championship course, designed by five times British Open champion Peter Thomson and reminiscent of the great courses of Britain and Ireland. Challenging, yet very approachable, the two nines unfold with beauty and intrigue ensuring those that appreciate golf presented at its best leave with an unforgettable experience and a strong desire to return again and again. Forget about trying to play Links Hope Island like all the standard format resort courses, this one deserves special skill and attention. Bump and run golf is a great challenge for those not accustomed to it, and we guarantee you will come away with renewed admiration for how the poms play their golf. A fantastic opportunity to sample good old fashioned British links golf without the 20 hour plane ride! Don’t miss it.

Links Hope Island, the Gold Coast’s

No.1 Golf Course*, is perfectly located, central to both Brisbane and the Gold Coast. We invite you to experience our championship golf course and first class clubhouse facilities.

Contact Links Hope Island for bookings or further information on: Golf I Membership Options I Events I Weddings I Links Restaurant Phone 07 5530 9000 or email events@linkshopeisland.com.au With its 5-Star clubhouse and practice facilities and consistent rankings as one of Australia’s top ten resort courses, Links Hope Island is the ultimate destination for corporate and social golf, functions, glamorous events or weddings.

There are also a variety of membership options available from full membership, to corporate or 5 day options. Contact us today to find out more.

residential development. A natural water-course featuring lakes, ponds, creeks and native wildlife completes a rare golf course environment.

The front nine holes are particularly striking as the trees envelope you as you move around, and the final two holes are a great way to finish the round.

Consistently ranked in the top resort courses in the country, the service before and after you play is superb, and we feel certain you will enjoy your day.

PALMER COLONIAL GOLF COURSE

PALMER GOLD COAST GOLF COURSE (FORMERLY ROBINA WOODS) » Holes: 18 Par: 71 Metres: 6,078 » Designer: Graham Marsh & Ross Watson » Course Facilities: Practice Range, Club Hire, Locker » Room, Bar, Restaurant, On Course Refreshments, Golf Academy » Travel Info: From Brisbane 60mins » From Broadbeach 10mins » From Surfers Paradise 15mins » Website: www.palmergoldcoast.com.au

CARVED out of 65 hectares of native woodlands, with fairways lined by towering gum trees, this unique layout is unlike any other resort course on the Gold Coast. Palmer Gold Coast (formerly Robina Woods) possesses maturity well beyond its years, and has developed a reputation as one of Queensland’s best-loved resort courses. The rolling fairways, manicured greens, and towering eucalyptus trees are strikingly beautiful and blend harmoniously with the surrounding

May 2021

» Holes: 18 Par: 72 Metres: 6,424 » Designer: Mitsuaki Kobyashi » Course Facilities: Practice Range, Putting Green, Club » hire, Locker Room, On Course Refreshments, Restaurant » Travel Info: From Brisbane 60mins » From Broadbeach 10mins » From Surfers Paradise 15mins » Website: www.palmercolonial.com.au

A FARMLAND once home to cows, weeds and bush has been transformed into a beautifully groomed course with lush fairways and meticulously manicured greens. The championship resort layout meanders its way through 39 hectares of towering eucalyptus, picturesque lakes and serene waterways.

Flowering native and exotic trees and plants abound, while ornate bridges cross watercourses in which luxuriant lilies jostle for space The distinguishing feature of the course is the clubhouse, with its Colonial Queenslander design.

You feel like you have drifted back in time as you sit down to that first thirst quenching drink on the wide, breeze-catching Queenslander verandahs which surround the building and offer panoramic views over the golf course and Gold Coast hinterland. Palmer Colonial is well worth the visit, and great value for money. >>

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F E AT U R E

PARADISE GOLF TOURS

P SANCTUARY COVE –THE PALMS » » » » » » »

Holes: 18 Par: 70 Metres: 5,904 Designer: Ross Watson Travel Info: From Brisbane 55mins From Broadbeach 35mins From Surfers Paradise 30mins Website: www.sanctuarycovegolfclub. com.au

THE Palms Golf Course at Sanctuary Cove is another masterpiece from renowned Golf Course architect Ross Watson. With gently undulating fairways dissecting critically placed bunkers, it offers a wonderful challenge for all golfers.

With a par of 70, it has a mixture of long and shorter holes, with some par 3 holes that are sure to attract critical acclaim. Visually it has that links style appeal, and the more golfers play it they will appreciate its strategic qualities. A great golfing experience!

lometres of golf cart paths around the fairways. Palm Meadows has a fleet of 72 Club Car Electric Golf Carts with wet weather covers.

The challenging 350 hectare course was designed by leading Australian golfer Graham Marsh. Par 72 measures 6319 metres off the championship tees.

Water comes into play on 14 holes and there are 82 sand bunkers.

The first hole is recognised as one of the world’s most challenging opening holes. Water runs the length of the hole on the left and the world famous Bamboo Curtain forms a barrier to the right.

Palm Meadows’ signature hole is the world famous 18th; it measures 523 metres from the championship tees.

Players accept the challenge and decide how much of the right dogleg they want to cut off. American Golf Digest rated Palm Meadows 18th in the world’s top 500 golf holes.

Palm Meadows Golf Course is a public course with limited memberships.

All golfers may enjoy the facilities of the course, clubhouse and Lakeview Restaurant.

ARADISE GOLF TOURS is the longest-established specialist Golf Tour company on the Gold Coast (since 1989), which means that you are dealing with a very reputable and experienced company.

Over the years, Paradise Golf Tours has built excellent relationships with the Gold Coast’s premier resort courses and this means they can usually secure your preferred tee-time on all courses, on any day.

Because of their buying power, they have access to significant discounts at a huge choice of accommodation venues as well as all golf courses – discounts which are passed on to their clients ensuring that Paradise Golf Tours provides excellent value with lower prices than can be obtained by going direct.

Let Paradise Golf Tours organise your

next group trip to the Gold Coast and you too could be playing on exclusive and private renowned courses such as Hope Island, Sanctuary Cove Pines, Sanctuary Cove Palms, the Jack Nicklaus-designed Lakelands, the Greg Norman-designed Glades or Brookwater, the home of the Australian PGA – Royal Pines, Arundel Hills and many others too.

With a modern fleet of buses to provide transfers throughout your stay and a myriad of choices for accommodation, it’s no wonder they say: “We’ll cross all the tee’s for you !”

Begin your trip planning right now by going to: www.paradisegolftours.com.au and click on the red “GET A QUOTE” button, or email them at : info@paradisegolftours.com.au or just call on 0402 049 868 right now – it’s really that easy to organise a golf trip for any number of golfers from 2 to 100 or more.

PALM MEADOWS GOLF COURSE » Par: 72 Metres: 6319 » Travel Info: From Broadbeach 5 minutes » From Surfers Paradise 10 muntes » 18 Holes Par 72 measures 6319 metres » Designer Greg Norman » Website: www.palmmeadows.com.au/

PALM MEADOWS Golf Course at Carrara on the Gold Coast is centrally located within 10 minutes drive of Surfers Paradise and five minutes from Broadbeach. Palm Meadows welcomes golfers of all standards. There are no reserved tee times and patrons may utilise all facilities including the clubhouse, function rooms and Lakeview Restaurant.

The all weather golf course has 11 ki-

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THE GLADES GOLF COURSE » par 72, 7264 metre » Website: www.glades.com.au

THE GLADES GOLF CLUB boasts the reputation as one of Australia’s most prestigious resort golf courses and is located right here on the Gold Coast. Designed by champion Australian golfing icon, Greg Norman, the course is typical of his trademark aggressive layouts offering golfers a challenging round of golf within visually stunning surrounds.

May 2021

29

NZ JUNIOR GOLF Supported by Golfer Pacific NZ

Dunedin Junior Golf – Women in Golf Initiative

2021 Waikato Secondary School Match Play Championships

From left to right: Zahraa Bester (Girls 27-Hole Strokeplay Champion), George Hodgson (Match Play Champion), Sam Towers (Boys 27-Hole Strokeplay Champion)

T

he 2021 Waikato Secondary School Match Play Championships were held at Te Awamutu Golf Club from March 22nd to the 24th. On day one players competed in a 27-Hole strokeplay round to determine their seeding for the match play rounds.

Zahraa Bester carded the best 27-hole score with rounds of 74 and 34 to secure the number one seed in Division 1. Sam Towers had the best score for the boys with rounds of 73 and 37 which secured him the number three seed in Division 1. Division 2 looked like it would be the most competitive division with five out of the eight players all shooting 122 for 27 holes.

Division 5 was made up of four players who competed in a 36-hole stableford event. Angus Reeves (Hamilton Boys High) scored an impressive 79 points on 36 holes to win first place in Division 5.

In Division 4 Mikae Rangihika (St John’s College) faced DJ Mills (Te Awamutu College) in the final. DJ proved too strong and won the title. Tumanako Hunapo (Te Awamutu College) won the Plate Final beating Lachlan O’Neill (St Paul’s Collegiate).

The Division 3 final saw Din Morrell

(Tokoroa High) defeat Heart Iadpluem (St Peter’s Cambridge) to claim the championship. Seiga Ikemura (Hamilton Boys High) defeated Jakob Arthur (Hamilton Boys High) in the Plate final.

The Division 2 final was the battle of the big hitters between Rei Masters (Cambridge High School) and Cole Tosland (Hamilton Boys High). The match went all the way to the 17th hole where Rei Masters sunk his par putt to win 2 & 1. In the Plate Final Shaam Bhullar (Taumarunui High) defeated Hunter Ussher (Whangamata High).

Division 1 was a mouth-watering final between Ing Iadpluem (St Peter’s Cambridge) and George Hodgson (St Peter’s Cambridge). George had been in fantastic form all week defeating Ben Ambler (St Peter’s Cambridge) and the number one seed Zahraa Bester (St Peter’s Cambridge) on his way to the final. Ing had also been in great form defeating Nihal Bhullar (Taumarunui High) and Jakob Bird (Hamilton Boys High). George managed to hold his nerve during the final a sink some crucial putts when it mattered most to win the match 3 & 2 and become the Waikato Secondary School Match Play Champion for 2021.

Feilding High School Golf team attended the Inter-Regional Golf Champs at the Marton Golf Club

O

n Thursday 1st April the Feilding High School Golf team attended the Inter-Regional Golf Champs at the Marton Golf Club.

Caitlyn Wray won the girls best gross and Ryan Rooney came 2nd in the stroke play competition. FAHS were unable to secure the teams trophy but our

30

two emerging players David Classen and Henry Richards had a great experience on a challenging 9 hole course in a moderate breeze. The 2021 field consisted of 58 players of all abilities from across the wider Manawatu-Wanganui region.

Right are Ryan and Caitlyn in action.

May 2021

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MANAWATU-WANGANUI OPEN AND

presented by

Open to Women & Men

BNZ

FEILDING OPEN

NEW ZEALAND GOLF TIER 2 ORDER OF MERIT MANAWATU-WANGANUI TIER 1 ORDER OF MERIT FORMAT: STROKEPLAY. 36 HOLES SATURDAY. 18 HOLES SUNDAY FOLLOWING A CUT. NET PRIZES FOR THE 36 HOLES PLAYED ON SATURDAY TO BE AWARDED AFTER SATURDAYS ROUNDS. GROSS PRIZES FOR THE 54 HOLE STROKEPLAY COMPETITION WITH BOTH THE FEILDING OPEN TROPHY & THE MANAWATU-WANGANUI OPEN TROPHY TO BE AWARDED TO THE BEST 54 HOLE GROSS WINNER. PRIZEGIVING TO BE HELD FOLLOWING SUNDAY’S ROUND BILLETS AVAILABLE ENTRY FEE $85 INCLUDES LUNCH ON SATURDAY PLEASE CLICK HERE TO ENTER

MAY 22ND & 23RD, 2021 FEILDING GOLF CLUB WWW.FEILDINGGOLFCLUB.CO.NZ

GOLF TRAILS

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGIONS

NORTHLAND WHANGAROA GOLF CLUB - NEWS AND RESULTS - ST PATS DAY

The Northland Golf Club is a par 71, 18hole course set in a peaceful rural valley with many native trees and bird life.

Try out our Monday special: $20 for 18 holes, $12 for 9 holes, if you’re looking for a way to iron out the wrinkles in your game, or just want to have a get-together with your mates.

You just need to turn up, and the Golf Shop team will look after you. Please contact us first if you require a golf cart.

160 Pipiwai Rd, Whangarei | 09 435 0042 | facebook.com/northlandgolfclubinc

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May 2021

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WHANGAROA GOLF CLUB - NEWS AND RESULTS - THE BOB ROUSE WHITE SWAN - LADIES PENNANTS

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May 2021

33

NORTHLAND NOTICEBOARD

NORTH HARBOUR HARBOUR NOTICEBOARD

AUCKLAND

WAIKATO

AKARANA GOLD CUP

ANOTHER UNSETTLED START FOR COVIC PLAY IN 2021

Akarana Gold Cup was awarded after the 1st round scores played the weekend before Easter. Winners Paul Lash and Paul Spackman on their comprehensive 4 shot victory in the 4BBB format.

AUCKLAND NOTICEBOARD

34

May 2021

COVIC golf has had yet another unsettled start to the year. In 2020 it was COVID that disrupted the playing calendar and in 2021 it is the weather. The cancellation of the opening VVV event at Waiterimu back in February, has now been followed by the forced postponement of the Clarks Beach qualifying event, due to a torrential downpour during play. This qualifying round has now been rescheduled as round four on the 1st June, after the Onewhero (23rd April) and Waiuku (18th May) rounds, before we return to the schedule with round 5 at Waikare on the 28th June.

It is a pleasure to confirm that Waikare are once again back in the COVIC family of clubs, under the direction and commitment of club member Noel Steele. Their return to play at Awhitu resulted in an equal second place and as COVIC Convenor Tim Howard commented at the aftermath, “Waikare’s return is timely and welcome, especially given that we all love playing at their golf course.”

And that is what COVIC is all about…the

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opportunity to visit and play at member clubs and in so doing to contribute to their financial health and well being. While the optimum number of participating clubs is probably the present ten, COVIC have catered for up to a dozen club entries in the past. Applications to join are always welcome from interested Club Vets sections, located within the historic Franklin District region, namely: Manukau, South and East Auckland, Counties and Northern Waikato.

After the opening round at Awhitu the COVIC Shield standings are: Awhitu (1point); Clarks Beach (2); Waikare (2); Huntly-Waiterimu (4); Pukekohe (5); Hauraki (6); Onewhero (7); Maramarua (8); Waiuku (9); Wattle Downs (10). In a close battle Maramarua took the COVIC Challenge Cup from Awhitu and will now defend it against Onewhero on the 23rd April.

Maramarua have established a sound track record in the Challenge Cup event, having previously held it for up to 15 defences on the trot. Could they do the same this time around.

WAIKATO GOLF – CAMBRIDGE 2021 MEN’S HANDICAP STROKEPLAY WINNERS

The team from Cambridge was made up of Bruce Watkinson, Phil Jackson, Lance Gussey and Michael van Mierlo.

The finals for the 2021 Men’s Handicap Strokeplay were held on March 28th at Matamata Golf Club. After a season consisting of three 27-hole rounds the best 12 teams qualified for the final.

After the first 18 holes the title was still very much up for grabs with seven teams all within six shots of each other. However, it was the team for Cambridge Golf Club who stamped their authority in the final 9 holes shooting a combined 108.

The next best was 116 from Hauraki. This was enough for Cambridge to leapfrog from 6th position into 1st and win by 6 shots.

The team from Cambridge was made up of Bruce Watkinson, Phil Jackson, Lance Gussey and Michael van Mierlo.

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WAIKATO GOLF - 2021 CHAMPIONSHIP PENNANTS WINNERS FOUND

Championship Pennants Results Division 1 Semi-finals Riverside defeat Ngaruawahia 4 - 2 Hamilton defeat Matamata 4.5 - 1.5 Final Hamilton defeat Riverside 5.5 - 0.5 Hamilton Golf Club is the 2021 Division 1 Championship Pennants Winners, congratulations Hamilton.

Division 2 Semi-finals Whangamata defeat Ngaruawahia 3.5 - 2.5 Hamilton defeat Stewart Alexander 4 - 2 Final Whangamata defeat Hamilton on countback after the match ended 3 - 3 Whangamata Golf Club is the 2021 Division 2 Championship Pennants Winners and will play in Division 1 for the 2022 season. Congratulations Whangamata.

Division 3 Semi-finals Hauraki defeat Tahuna Putaruru defeat Te Kowhai Final Hauraki defeat Putaruru Hauraki Golf Club is the 2021 Division 3 Championship Pennants Winners and will play in Division 2 for the 2022 season.

May 2021

WAIKATO NOTICEBOARD

35

BAY OF PLENTY

WELLINGTON NOTICEBOARD

TAUPO WERE THE RECENT WINNERS OF THE SOUTHERN ZONE 18 HOLE ASSOCIATION PENNANTS FOR 2021 MANAWATU-WHANGANUI MANAWATU-WHANGANUI NOTICEBOARD

HAWKE’S BAY HAWKE’S BAY NOTICEBOARD

Taupo were the recent winners of the Southern Zone 18 hole Association Pennants for 2021.

After the final round both Wairakei and Taupo were tied for points, which resulted in a sudden death playoff.

Diana Syer from Wairakei and Chris Thomson from Taupo (sisters) who battled it out over two holes to establish the overall winning team for 2021.

WELLINGTON CARTERTON GOLF CLUB – TWILIGHT RESULTS

By Wendy Wills Wednesday 31st March was the last night of our Twilight golf until daylight saving starts again in September. The final prize giving evening was held af-

BAY OF PLENTY NOTICEBOARD

TARANAKI

ter everybody played a fun par 3 course set up by Duncan Pincock. The winner of the Putting Trophy for 2021 went to David Wills; although there was a draw between three players so putts were counted between them over the nights competition to come up with an overall winner which was David. The winner of the Twilight Cup for 2021 was Malcolm Steele. The Tui Shield for the best team combined stableford went to : Malcolm Steele, Wendy Wills and James O’Connor.

A nice meal was partaken by all, thank you to Alan Wall for cooking our Twilight food, Nigel Bailey our handicapper, Duncan Pincock and everyone that helped Tina Bailey and Wendy Wills throughout the season we look forward to our first twilight golf night back on Wednesday the 29th September.

TARANAKI NOTICEBOARD

L to R: David Wills & Malcolm Steele.

WESTPORT

golf club Situated at Carters beach 7km’s south of Westport Playable all year round due to its sand base and provides a stern yet enjoyable test for golfers of all abilities A links course of 5617m for the Men and 5039m for the Ladies A warm welcome awaits you. Green Fees from $25

Marine Parade WESTPORT, Buller/Westland +64 (03) 789 8132

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May 2021

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TASMAN TASMAN NOTICEBOARD

CANTERBURY CANTERBURY GOLF METRO A & B FINALS

The Finals of Metro A & B Interclub were played at McLeans Island Golf Club recently in warm, calm conditions and the course in great order.

The Metro A Final between Russley and Bottle Lake was a very tight affair with three matches going to the wire before last year’s champions Bottle Lake made it back-to-back titles defeating Russley 4.5-3.5.

The victorious Bottle Lake team of, from left Simon Carey, Shayne Dwyer, Mark Silcock, Trevor Hope, Richard Falloon and Ian Chaney. In front, Wayne Newsome, Craig Bilton and Lyall Grant are pictured below.

The Metro B Final between Russley and Coringa was just as close even though the scoreline indicated differently. The Coringa team pictured below of from left Scott Calvert, Ian Butcher, Alert Yee, Grant Morris, Bobby Pratt, Scott Ward, Joh Kemp and Trevor Lee defeated top qualifiers Russley 6-2, with four matches going down to the penultimate hole before Coringa sealed victory.

GOLF RESULTS – CANTERBURY NORTH VS BULLER WESTLAND

CANTERBURY NOTICEBOARD

The Canterbury North vs Buller Westland Representative fixture was played at Hamner Springs Golf Club recently in warm, sunny conditions with the course in great order. The matches were played in great spirit and Hamner Springs Golf Club were excellent hosts.

Canterbury North Seniors defeated Buller Westland 14.5 - 5.5 - Fourball 4 - 1 - Foursomes 2.5 - 2.5 - Singles 8 - 2 Canterbury North Intermediates defeated Buller Westland 12 - 8 - Fourball 4.5 - .5 - Foursomes 1 - 4 - Singles 6.5 - 3.5 Overall Canterbury North defeated Buller Westland 26.5 - 13.5

Canterbury North team Bottle Lake Team

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Coringa Team

May 2021

37

OTAGO/SOUTHLAND WAIKAKA ROSEBOWL

RETAIN

GILMOUR

Waikaka have retained the Gilmour Rosebowl in beautiful summer conditions defeating Winton 3 1/2 to 1 1/5 Individual results Waikaka names first Dianne Cleland lost Nikki Hume 1down Deryn Cullen beat Marlene Muir 2/1 Kate Cross beat Margaret Nicholson 6/4 Sharon Irwin square Kerrie Gow Raewyn King beat Michelle Carlton 6/7 Waikaka’s next challenge is againist Gore in May

SOUTHLAND GOLF - OVERALL WINNERS FROM JUNIOR SUMMER SERIES

Overall Winners from Junior Summer Series Boys/Girls U16

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May 2021

Winner Matthew Cookson on playoff from Ryan Frost 3rd; Oliver Piggott Boys/Girls U13 Winner; Kevin Bang Runner-up ;Will Carson 3rd; Sophia Park Boys 9 Holes Winner; Sam Hamilton Runner-up; Mark Lauko Girls 9 Holes Charlotte Robinson Boys/Girls Short Course Winner; Jirene Opaco Runner-up; Cooper Boyce 3rd; Mitchell Kett Summer Series 2021 Result – #4 Summer Series Final Queens Park GC Boys / Girls U19 White Tees Age H/C Gross/Nett Parent Points Slam Points Total Points Eli Standish 17 27 107 – 80 500 500 Boys / Girls U16 White Tees Age H/C Gross/Nett Parent Points Slam Points Total Points Matthew Cookson 15 15 85-70 500 500 Charlie Standish 14 18 92-74 400 400 Oliver Piggott 14 14 92-78 300 300 Clyde White 15 34 113-79 200 200 Ryan Frost 15 38 128-90 50 100 150 Boys / Girls U13 Yellow Tees Age Stblfd Parent Points Slam Points Total Points Kevin Bang 11 43 50 500 550 Jake Slater 11 40 50 400 450 Enso Makuta Brownlie 10 35 50 300 350 Sophia Park 11 33 50 200 250 Will Carson 12 30 50 100 150 Jack Claridge 13 93 – Gross 50 50 Ryder Sheehan 13 105 – Gross 50 50 Boys Open 10+ 9 Holes – Yellow Tees Age Score Parent Points Slam Points Total Points Sam Hamilton 11 56 50 500 550 Harrison George 13 62 50 400 450 Girls – Open 9 Holes Yellow Tees Age Score Parent Points Slam Points Total Points Charlotte Robinson 10 58 50 500 550 Boys/Girls U10 – 9 Holes Short Course Age Score Parent Points Slam Points Total Points Jirene Opaco 9 46 50 500 550 Cooper Boyce 11 47 50 400 450 Mack Stuart 6 48 50 300 350 Mitchell Kett 10 49 50 200 250 Corbin James 8 49 50 100 150 Lachlan Grey 11 50 50 50 Gauen Lee 7 57 50 50 Eli Chabon 11 58 50 50 Olivia Bang 8 65 50 50 Leo Marshall 7 71 50 50

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TAIERI LAKES GOLF CLUB - CENTENARY

The number 100 is not usually a number that is celebrated in golf, but Taieri Lakes Golf Club in North Taieri, Dunedin has recently celebrated (March 2021) its 100-year anniversary with a three-day celebration which included a centenary dinner that was attended by over 150 past and present members.

Club president Shane Smith, who has been in the role since 2018 was ecstatic with the turnout of current and former club members and that the club was finally able to celebrate the historic milestone.

“It’s fantastic to be just a small part of the club’s history. There are a lot of people that paved the way before me, and we know that everyone who has been part of the club’s leadership are proud that we have made it to 100 years,” said Smith.

One of the biggest pieces of work undertaken was producing a detailed history of the club. A 100-year book was produced as well as a detailed slide show for the Saturday dinner and photo boards erected in the clubrooms, all of which sparked a lot of conversation.

“The Centennial Committee Members were integral to the success of the cel-

ebrations, the work they did pulling together everything was exceptional and very much the highlight of the dinner.”

“All of these were a great chance to show people the history of the club, where we used to be situated, and even what some of our current members looked like in the 1980s. They showed the scale of the development of our current course over the 50 years we have been located here,” said Smith. This followed 50 years’ operating from five leased sites before purchasing the land where the club is now located on Milners Rd. Over the 100 years, the club has had to ride out many major disruptions, but it’s true testament to the club’s leadership and members that club has survived these disruptions.

“As for most clubs across the country, last year was a tough one with the global pandemic but we have great staff and management who did a great job managing it,” said Smith.

“We are like a lot of South Island club where members are hard to retain and attract and over the last few years there have been some really key things that have been done to ensure the longevity of the club, and probably the biggest was building two new holes, both containing play over additional new lakes in keeping with our club theme, and getting those into play.”

Smith also believes that their connection with the local community is something that has helped keep the club strong for so many years.

“The club also has a great community connection with the local high school and intermediate. We let them have the run of the course when they have their golf programmes on. It is fantastic to see young people from our region taking up the game and we know that these connections help get more and more mem-

bers coming through,” said Smith.

When asked about the course and what makes their club special Smith added “The course layout at Taieri Lakes Golf Club is different from anything else available in Dunedin. There is a reasonable amount of water and our team works hard to ensure it is always nicely presented. Being only just out of town, it is easy to access and provides something for every level of golfer. We pride ourselves on a welcoming, pleasant, very friendly and being quite a social club.”

A history on the club can be viewed here and you can check out some photos from the club’s centenary celebrations over at their Facebook page. ST CLAIR

zier combining for a best ball net score of 62 and were back up by Jocelyn Livesey and Caroline Burgess with 63 for total of 125.

Close behind in second were the ladies from Maniototo with 128, Margo Hall Joyce Greer 65, Janine Smith and Denies Baddock 63 to finish 3 shots back.

Queenstown and Taieri Lakes tied for 3 with 133 total.

OTAGO/SOUTHLAND NOTICEBOARD Aorangi

RUN HOT AT OTAGO NATIONAL TEAMS FINAL

Otago

After not been played in 2020 due to Covid 19, the Otago National Teams District Final was played recently.

19 Teams were welcome at Alexandra by a beautiful autumn day and a golf course just as good.

Like the weather the St Clair team were red hot with Hannah West and Gwen Bra-

2021 -2022 COUNTIES-MANUKAU VETERANS INTER-CLUB COMMUNITY

Public Holidays

Round

Queens B’Day Mn 1/6

Club Venue®

Qualify 3 WAIUKU

SGS

Date

9.30 Tue 18 MAY

Qualify 4 CLARKS BEACH 9.30 Tue 1 JUNE Qualify 5 WAIKARE

9.30 Mon 28 JUNE

JJJ CUP´ WATTLE DWNS* 9.30 Thu 29 JULY

Cup Challenger Waiuku Clarks Beach Waikare

HAURAKI†

9.30 Wed 1 SEPT

Final 2

MARAMARUA

9.30 Thu 30 SEPT

Final 3

HUNTLY

9.30 Tue 12 OCT

Huntly/Waiterimu

Final 4

PUKEKOHE

9.00 Mon 8 NOV

Pukekohe

VVV Cup´WAITERIMU* Qualify 2 AWHITU*

Maramarua

021 869 434

nevillejud@xtra.co.nz

Noel Steele

021 504 743

steelo151@gmail.com

AndreRuiterman 09 236 0513

Wattle Downs Awhitu

School Hol 26/9-11/10 Labour Day Mn 26/10

crooymansfamily@xtra.co.nz School Hol 17/12-22/1 acsr@actrix.gen.nz

Xmas St 25 - Tu 28/12

027 813 6000 murrayntl@hotmail.com

NewYr St 1 - Tu 4/1/22

David Gardiner

027 280 0515 gpesl@xtra.co.nz

Auckland Ann Mn 31/1

021 155 4113 alhaurintim@yahoo.co.uk

Waitangi St 6 - Mn 8/2

027 2911125

pgheath@xtra.co.nz

School Hols 15/4-1/5

Steve Ryan

021 294 8580 s.j.ryan@hotmail.com

Easter Fr 15 - Mn 18/4

Tim Smyth

027 2433237

Anzac St 23 - Mn 25/4

* 9-HOLE COURSE PLAYER LIMITS APPLY;´SPECIAL JJJ, VVV & CCC CUP Formats Fixed as stated ® 2021 FEES: Q&F Rounds =$20pp; Pukekohe F4, VVV, JJJ & CCC = $25pp (Fee Review in 2022) † CONVENORS MEETING: Held in Clubrooms 90-Mins before Start | ^Event date to be confirmed.

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s.j.ryan@hotmail.com

School Hols 4-19/7 Monthly 5th Th 30/7

Murray Liddle

Nett Strokeplay Tim Howard 9.30 Tue 1MAR22^ Pairs Comb Stabies Paul Heath

9.30 Tue 19 APR^

Email: Entry or Enquiry

Nev McSweney

9.30 Tue 23 NOV

Qualify 1 WATTLE DWNS* 9.30 Thu 31 MAR^

Phone

021 155 4113 alhaurintim@yahoo.co.uk

3-Person Ambrose Steve Ryan 021 294 8580 Hauraki SteveCrooymans 027 467 3209

Final 1

CCC Cup´ WAIUKU†

Host Convenor Tim Howard

May 2021

tim.smyth@xtra.co.nz

YOUR LATEST GOLFING NEWS FROM ACROSS NZ AND AROUND THE WORLD

39

LONG & STRAIGHT Designed for women to maximise distance and forgiveness.

EASY TO HIT For higher ball flight and shots that fly further.

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May 2021

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