Golfer Pacific NZ – July 2021

July 2021 17th year as NZ’s exclusive Golf club magazine

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Jon Rahm: From devastation to jubilation PAGE 5 ISSN 1178-0754 ISSN 1835-1336 XX 07

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INSIDE // PHIL AICKIN: HAPPY SERVING NEW ZEALAND GOLF // PHILLIS METI

EDITORIAL

NEW ZEALAND EDITORIAL Paul Gueorgieff pgueorgieff@yahoo.co.nz Ph: 64 4 565 0385 Mob: 64 27 227 1038

pgueorgieff@yahoo.co.nz

Statistics, statistics and damned lies

T

By Paul Gueorgieff Editor, Golfer Pacific NZ

hink about the following.

If you had 36 putts and scored net par would you be happy?

If you had 18 up and downs and scored net par would you be happy?

If you hit 18 greens in net regulation and had net par would you be happy?

In all three of those scenarios you have scored net par. Would you be happy?

The answer to the latter is yes because you have scored the equivalent of 36 stableford points which we all know is good or very good.

But let’s break down those three scenarios.

The first one was 36 putts and scoring net par. Even though this would provide you with 36 stableford points, I can’t help thinking this would be disappointing.

Why?

Because that means you have hit 18 greens in net regulation and you have only averaged two putts per green.

I would be disappointed with that. Very disappointed.

To think I would hit 18 greens in net regulation and not score one net birdie would be disappointing considering I would not expect to three-putt any green.

But what say I only made each of the 18 greens by a few inches and each time the pin was on the other side of the green, perhaps 60 feet or more away?

In that case, two putts is pretty good. But the fact you ended up so far from the pin is not good.

In other words, up and downs are only good if you are not close to the pin.

But if up and downs are only good if you are some distance from the pin, what are you doing be some distance from the pin in the first place? That’s not good.

Very confusing.

Second scenario. That’s 18 up and downs for net pars.

That sounds like you have chipped wonderfully. But it also means you have missed 18 greens in regulation.

That’s not so wonderful.

Let’s imagine you have missed the green by a few inches each time and the pin is very near to where you finished. In that case 18 up and downs doesn’t mean you have chipped well. Far from it.

Very confusing.

Third scenario. That was 18 greens in net regulation and finished with net par.

Once again, to me, that would be disappointing. Very disappointing.

Why? Imagine if nine of the greens you hit in regulation ended up near the pin and you didn’t sink one of those putts for a net birdie. That has to be disappointing.

The point I am making is statistics, statistics and damned lies.

The only statistic that counts is the overall score. A net 71 is better than a net 72. Full stop.

A score of 35 stableford points it not as good as 36 stableford points. Full stop.

I often hear television golf commentators talk about strokes gained putting or strokes gained something else.

Do you understand what these mean?

I don’t and I am not sure if I want to know. Because the only stat that matters is the overall score.

If I have six birdies (yes, I am dreaming) and I have six bogeys (I’m no longer dreaming) that only amounts to par.

If I was good enough to have six birdies but also have six bogeys I would be disappointed. Very disappointed.

Statistics, statistics and damned lies.

Very confusing.

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By Neville Idour

P

hil Aickin has been all things to New Zealand golf for many years.

Some might describe him as a stalwart servant. Perhaps loyal and hard working might be more appropriate.

As a player, administrator and referee at major golf events his presence has touched many people over the years.

Golfer Pacific caught up with him at the Otago Golf Club where he was involved in the running of the South Island Age Group Championships in his current role as handicapping and golf services manager.

We first asked him where it all started?

“I was born and bred in Auckland and fell in love with golf thanks to my father Ray,’’ Aickin recalled.

“He was an avid golfer and I would cry when he would leave to go and play golf. I was only four or five then and missed dad. So after that he took me with him. I would hit golf balls and eventually when I was a 12-year-old I could join a golf club.

“There were challenges for a junior to become a member of a golf club in Auckland. I’m not sure if that was a national thing.

“So finally I could join, but there was a two-year waiting list at The Grange where dad was a member. Fortunately he then joined Whitford Park and that became my home course since I joined in 1973. Dad had dual membership for a while to get me started.”

Why was it difficult for a junior to join?

“The Grange was probably the busiest course in Auckland so they had that two-year waiting list. You had to be 12 before you became eligible to join.”

Was your father a good golfer?

“Yes. His lowest handicap was two. One of the highlights of my long playing career was when I played him in the final of the senior club championships in the late 1970s.

“I remember he chipped in early to go one up but I did win comfortably in the end. It really was a thrill though.

“Dad really loved the game. I even remember the last round he played but sadly he died at 64, still a young man really. But I was fortunate I got his love for golf and I have done a few things he would have been proud of, that I wish he had been here to see.”

There was a hint of a tear in the eyes as Phil talked about his father. It was clearly a cherished relationship.

What’s an example that your father would have been proud of?

“Refereeing at The Open in 2010. I was 42 when he died but I did have a lot of great years with him.

“The last 15 years of those, I was in Wellington having moved there in the early 1990s to work for New Zealand Golf. It is now almost 30 years in a career where I work in the game I love. It has not only taken me around

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Phil Aicken

the world as a player and administrator but also to work with golf clubs all over New Zealand, which is probably one of the best parts of my job.”

Tell us about your playing career.

“I had a number of years playing at the top amateur level in New Zealand teams as a junior and senior.

“I played with and against many good players such as against Stuart Jones, our hall of famer, in the old Freyberg which was pretty cool.

“I went to the University of Oklahoma with Greg Turner. It was a nice era although it didn’t do my golf game any good.

“I also played a lot with Frank Nobilo, Michael Campbell, Phil Tataurangi, Grant Moorhead and Stephen Scahill in that era when we won the Eisenhour in 1992.

“For me, having played in three Eisenhours in the 1980s it was an amazing feeling. With promising players coming through, hopefully we might do it again soon, but the young ones seem to turn pro pretty quickly now.”

Aickin won many titles in his career but just missed out on the New Zealand and Australian amateur titles, finishing runner-up in both.

He played several New Zealand Opens and was top amateur three

years running. He is still playing regularly for Whitford Park which won the Auckland senior interclub this year.

“My inclusion increased the average age of the team by five having hit 60 years of age recently. But I’m really pleased I can still play off a scratch handicap and enjoy my golf . One day I hope to beat my age.”

What about family life?

“I have been married to Louise for over 30 years. My two children don’t play golf. However, happily my daughter Rachel has recently produced our first grandchild. My son Jay’s passion is football and he works for New Zealand Football. Having seen me work in the sport I love, he is now doing that as well which is really cool.”

What is the highlight of your life in golf?

“Representing New Zealand is right up there. I did well when travelling for New Zealand. I won the Australian Junior in 1981. I played with Steve Elkington that year.

“In college golf (in the United States) I played with Davis Love, Scott Verplank and Turner. Great memories indeed.

“As an administrator, simply dealing with all the great people in golf and being able to referee in big events off shore, such as two British Opens and

July 2021

in 2016 at the US Open. A huge highlight was, having watched the Masters over many years on TV, being there as a spectator in 2018.”

Aickin still referees in New Zealand but not currently internationally.

“I love my current role dealing with the world handicapping system which is used by over 100 countries. We work with (computer software provider) Dot Golf and the new technology now available. The other task I enjoy is course rating and training people to do that.’’

The progress of golf in the last year or so has been significant?

“Who would have thought that since (coronavirus) lockdown we would be up 12,000 members to 117,000 and number of rounds played would be up 25 percent. Everywhere I go in New Zealand it is positive. The game is sure booming. In Auckland if you don’t book a week ahead you just won’t get a game.”

Do you see the trend continuing?

“I see great opportunity for clubs to make their facilities and the playing experience at a level where these people will want to keep coming back. I think what we have seen in the last year is many 25- to 35-year-olds joining golf clubs and realising the attraction of the lovely outdoor environment as well as the family aspect.

“I ran a speed golf event recently where Brad Shilton took just two clubs, a three wood and a wedge and shot 80 in 46 minutes — and what a great family environment it is. We had a good crowd out and lots of support for the players whether they were good or bad or had a good score or bad score.

“With the average 18-hole round taking about an hour it is a real fun event. With people being time poor these days it is great exercise. My wife loves it as my record is to take her a cup of tea in bed at 7.40am after already having run 8kms and played 18 holes.”

Aickin has been playing speed golf for seven years with success in various events. The fun part is working out how many clubs to take, which clubs, how many balls? Fields may be around 40 players which is logistically a challenge as many volunteers are needed for scoring and keeping time.

Aickin’s life in golf has been quite a ride so why does he love it so much?

“Everything about golf is captivating.

The history, the challenge and the people. There is no other game where the best in the world and a beginner can compete fairly in a match thanks to the handicap system. Add the different styles of courses and you have the formula for the greatest sport of all.”

And finally?

“I wouldn’t have lasted this long if it wasn’t for my wife Louise and two amazing children Rachel and Jay. It has certainly been a fun ride and hopefully I have a few years left to contribute as best I can.”

And so say all of us.

GOLF NEWS

Phil Aickin: Happy serving New Zealand golf

3

Jon Rahm: From devastation to jubilation GOLF NEWS Jon Rahm following his victory in the United States Open at Torrey Pines in San Diego, California. Photo credit United States Golf Association

K

arma is a religious word.

In the Buddhist and Hindu religions, karma is the force produced by a person’s actions in one life that influences what happens to them in future lives, says the Cambridge dictionary.

And when it comes to karma, Jon Rahm is a believer, especially after his win in the United States Open at San Di-

ego in California last month.

Just a fortnight earlier Rahm was left devastated when advised after the third round of a PGA Tour event that he had tested positive to covid-19. At the time he held a commanding six-shot lead but had to withdraw from the tournament.

“I’m a big believer in karma,’’ Rahm said after the US Open.

“And after what happened a

couple of weeks ago I stayed really positive knowing good things were coming.”

The US Open venue of Torrey Pines already had special meaning for Rahm. It was were he scored his first PGA Tour win in 2017, it was where he proposed to his wife Kelley and Rahm kept thinking it would deliver more.

“I knew we were coming to a special place. I knew I got my breakthrough win here and it’s a very special place for my family. And the fact that my parents were able to come …

I just felt like the stars were aligning. I knew my best golf was to come.”

Rahm started the final day of the US Open three shots behind the leaders but had the equal best final round of four under par. That enabled him to win by one shot from Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa who went into the last round as a co-leader.

Included in Rahm’s round were birdies on the last two holes where he sunk big bending putts. Rahm said if he

looked calm coming down the stretch, that was not the case.

“I might have looked calm. I was not calm,’’ he said.

“I wish people could see our heart rate when we’re playing in those moments because that was tense. But you practice to let your body basically take over, right? That’s what I did.

“I think the fact that I stayed patient and hopeful, and I believed that something good was coming my way, is what helped. I never lost hope for a second. I kept hitting good shots. I kept giving myself chances.”

Rahm has sometimes vented his frustration on the golf course but he believes because he became a father just a few months earlier it had helped improve his attitude.

“I still had that grit but almost each miss bothered me less. I believe it’s because I really set out myself to be an example for my son that he would be proud of.

“I’ve done some stuff in the past on the golf course that I’m

not proud of and I wish I could eliminate it.”

Rahm, 26, becomes the first Spaniard to win the US Open and he did not forget the fact that the tournament eluded Spanish star Seve Ballesteros who racked up 90 international wins and five majors — three British Opens and two US Masters.

“This was definitely for Seve,’’ Rahm said.

“I know he tried a lot and usually we think a lot about him as the Masters but I know he wanted to win this one most of all.”

Rahm also becomes the fourth Spaniard to win a major. Along with Ballesteros the other two are Jose Maria Olazabal and Sergio Garcia.

The win carried a prize of $US2.25 million ($NZ3.2 million) and took Rahm’s earnings on the PGA Tour to $US28 million. His world ranking returned to No 1, a position he held twice last year each for a period of two weeks.

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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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July 2021

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US OPEN LEADERBOARD AND PRIZEMONEY

NEWS

June 17 - 20, Torrey Pines (South Course) - La Jolla, California Par: 71, Yards: 7652, Purse: $US12,500,000, Defending Champion: Bryson DeChambeau POS PLAYER 1 Jon Rahm 2 Louis Oosthuizen 3 Harris English T4 Guido Migliozzi T4 Brooks Koepka T4 Collin Morikawa T7 Branden Grace T7 Daniel Berger T7 Paul Casey T7 Xander Schauffele T7 Scottie Scheffler T7 Rory McIlroy T13 Francesco Molinari T13 Russell Henley T15 Patrick Cantlay T15 Kevin Streelman T15 Matthew Wolff T15 Mackenzie Hughes T19 Patrick Reed T19 Sergio Garcia T19 Charl Schwartzel T19 Brian Harman T19 Jordan Spieth T19 Justin Thomas T19 Dustin Johnson T26 Hideki Matsuyama T26 Rikuya Hoshino T26 Chris Baker T26 Martin Kaymer T26 Bryson DeChambeau T31 Patrick Rodgers T31 Dylan Wu T31 Joaquin Niemann T31 Christiaan Bezuidenhout T35 Edoardo Molinari T35 Robert MacIntyre T35 Adam Scott T35 Lanto Griffin T35 Sungjae Im T40 Wade Ormsby T40 Adam Hadwin T40 Chez Reavie T40 Si Woo Kim T40 J.T. Poston T40 Ian Poulter T46 Rick Lamb T46 Tom Hoge T46 Dylan Frittelli T46 Lee Westwood T50 Tommy Fleetwood T50 Rafa Cabrera Bello T50 Gary Woodland T50 Bubba Watson T50 Richard Bland T55 Kevin Kisner T55 Matt Fitzpatrick T57 Taylor Montgomery T57 Stewart Cink T57 Akshay Bhatia T57 Jhonattan Vegas T57 Charley Hoffman T62 Greyson Sigg T62 Phil Mickelson 64 Marc Leishman T65 Matt Jones T65 Troy Merritt T65 Shane Lowry T68 Wilco Nienaber T68 Kyle Westmoreland T70 Fabián Gómez T70 Jimmy Walker

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TO PAR -6 -5 -3 -2 -2 -2 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 E E +1 +1 +1 +1 +2 +2 +2 +2 +2 +2 +2 +3 +3 +3 +3 +3 +4 +4 +4 +4 +5 +5 +5 +5 +5 +6 +6 +6 +6 +6 +6 +7 +7 +7 +7 +8 +8 +8 +8 +8 +9 +9 +10 +10 +10 +10 +10 +11 +11 +12 +13 +13 +13 +14 +14 +19 +19

R1 R2 R3 R4 TOT EARNINGS FEDEX PTS 69 70 72 67 278 $2,250,000 600 67 71 70 71 279 $1,350,000 330 72 70 71 68 281 $829,084 210 71 70 73 68 282 $498,176 0 69 73 71 69 282 $498,176 127 75 67 70 70 282 $498,176 127 72 70 74 67 283 $306,893 86 71 72 72 68 283 $306,893 86 71 75 67 70 283 $306,893 85 69 71 72 71 283 $306,893 85 72 69 70 72 283 $306,893 85 70 73 67 73 283 $306,893 85 68 76 69 71 284 $217,796 66 67 70 71 76 284 $217,796 66 70 75 71 69 285 $177,279 58 71 69 72 73 285 $177,279 58 70 68 73 74 285 $177,279 58 73 67 68 77 285 $177,279 58 72 73 74 67 286 $125,363 46 71 74 73 68 286 $125,363 46 71 74 71 70 286 $125,363 46 72 71 71 72 286 $125,363 47 77 69 68 72 286 $125,363 46 73 69 71 73 286 $125,363 47 71 73 68 74 286 $125,363 0 69 76 74 68 287 $87,941 35 69 74 73 71 287 $87,941 0 74 71 69 73 287 $87,941 35 77 68 69 73 287 $87,941 32 73 69 68 77 287 $87,941 36 70 71 77 70 288 $71,030 28 70 73 74 71 288 $71,030 0 75 69 71 73 288 $71,030 627 72 70 70 76 288 $71,030 0 70 76 72 71 289 $57,696 0 71 73 72 73 289 $57,696 0 70 75 71 73 289 $57,696 21 76 69 69 75 289 $57,696 21 72 72 69 76 289 $57,696 22 72 74 73 71 290 $43,883 0 70 72 75 73 290 $43,883 15 76 68 72 74 290 $43,883 15 71 75 70 74 290 $43,883 15 72 73 71 74 290 $43,883 16 74 71 68 77 290 $43,883 15 71 75 74 71 291 $32,351 0 72 71 76 72 291 $32,351 11 73 72 72 74 291 $32,351 12 71 72 71 77 291 $32,351 11 72 73 74 73 292 $27,327 8 68 76 74 74 292 $27,327 9 74 71 73 74 292 $27,327 8 72 67 77 76 292 $27,327 8 70 67 77 78 292 $27,327 0 73 73 72 75 293 $26,056 6 70 75 72 76 293 $26,056 6 70 76 74 74 294 $25,183 0 73 72 74 75 294 $25,183 6 73 73 73 75 294 $25,183 0 75 69 74 76 294 $25,183 6 72 71 75 76 294 $25,183 6 71 74 75 75 295 $24,310 0 75 69 76 75 295 $24,310 6 74 70 75 77 296 $23,936 5 72 71 79 75 297 $23,437 5 75 71 73 78 297 $23,437 4 72 74 72 79 297 $23,437 4 72 74 80 72 298 $22,814 0 71 73 78 76 298 $22,814 0 70 76 78 79 303 $22,309 3 74 72 77 80 303 $22,309 3

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GOLF NEWS 6

More to do just yet for Phillis Meti after receiving Queen’s Birthday honour

R

ecently in the Queen’s Birthday honours, PGA professional Phillis Meti was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to sport, particularly golf.

Meti is a three-time world long drive champion winning the title in 2006, 2016 and 2018.

In 2019 she launched a massive 414-yard drive to take the world record.

She was introduced to golf by her parents, starting at Chamberlin Golf club, being born and raised in west Auckland. She is currently part of the PGA NZ bridging programme with Rhys Bishop being her training member.

We had a chance to catch up with Phillis and talked to her about where it all began for her, her highlights and what receiving such a prestigious award means to her and her ambition to grow the game for Maori and Pasifika.

Where did golf first start for you and who was involved?

Golf began with my dad falling in love with the game. I wish it was a glamorous story, but I was dragged to golf with my dad. We started at Chamberlain like most Aucklanders who have just started the game.

My first coaches were Gillian Bannan and James Kupa. My first home club was Redwood Park. After turning 12, Heather

Adam, who was our junior convener then, would take some of us junior girls out to hit on a Sunday afternoon.

What is it that you love about golf? And working in it?

I really like the opportunities that golf presents to people involved, for example social networks, competition, travel, events, teaching, operations … the list goes on.

What are some highlights for you in your career so far?

I have many -- following the pandemic, we don’t realise how good we had it pre-pandemic: * My three world championships and more so my recent ones. It was nice to see that after 10 years away, I still had enough speed and power to be the best again. * Travelling the world playing golf and competing on the World Long Drive tour has been a highlight. I feel I wouldn’t have had the same opportunities if I wasn’t playing the game. * Playing tour golf for nine years. * Experiencing five different qualifying schools around the world and coming close to gaining a full card on the Ladies European Tour in 2013. * The many people I have come across.

Where do you see the game of golf evolving for you

Phillis Meti

and beyond in general?

My goal is to increase awareness for Maori and Pacific Islanders to play golf. That’s how I would like to help evolve the game. I feel it would be appropriate to have more of a Pasifika representation throughout all facets in golf - be it in retail, undergoing their PGA traineeship, playing elite level and becoming role models for the future.

What does the Queen’s award mean to you?

It is an honour to be recognised at the highest level

July 2021

in our country for my contribution to sport -- particularly golf. I feel like I’m only starting!! However, this award also belongs to those who have helped me along my journey.

Who are your biggest influences on your life and golf?

My parents have been the biggest influencers in my life and golf -- they set me up with some tools that allowed me to achieve the things I wanted to achieve whether it’s in sport, education or in life.

Both of my late grandmothers. They kept me

grounded and shaped the woman inside of me -- culturally, mentally and emotionally.

I have met many people that have influenced my life along the way. They say people come into your life for seasons and for reasons. I believe this has happened for me many times.

What’s next for you?

Whilst being in New Zealand, I have taken the opportunity to further my knowledge in the industry, improve on my teaching skills whilst completing my PGA bridging qualification.

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7

NEWS Amateur Championship: Four down with four to play and won

L

aird Shepherd produced one of the greatest comebacks to win the 126th Amateur Championship in emotional scenes at Nairn in Scotland.

In an all-England 36-hole final with Monty Scowsill over the renowned Highland links, the 23-year-old remarkably fought back from eight down after 17 holes and from four down with four to play to triumph at the 38th hole in an extraordinary match.

Having battled with knee and back injuries in recent times and worked in a British groceries and general merchandise call centre during a covid-19 lockdown, Shepherd was in tears at the dramatic conclusion given the enormity of what he had achieved.

In his fourth appearance at The Amateur, the ex-University of Stirling student was warmly hugged by his girlfriend, the Scottish amateur player Chloe Goadby, and friend and caddie, Andrew Davidson.

“It’s an amazing, amazing feeling,” Shepherd said.

“To come back from eight down through 17 holes, I mean I was honestly more concerned about not making an embarrassing record-breaking defeat.

“Monty played so good in the morning, so composed, and I didn’t really have my game. To turn it around was unbelievable.

“The tears are probably for the tough times I’ve had over the last few years. It’s never nice as an athlete when you feel like you are going backwards, like I was.”

Shepherd, a member of Rye Golf Club in East Sussex, can now look forward to competing in the 149th Open at Royal St George’s this month, the 2022 United States Open and, by tradition, an invitation to play in the Masters Tournament in the United States.

Shepherd, who joins a roll of honour that includes José María Olazábal, Sergio Garcia, Matteo Manassero and Romain Langasque, will also be invited to play in an event on the European Tour.

“The last 18 holes I thought I’m not going to win, but at least I could get a few

Laird Shepherd with his Amateur Championship win in Scotland last month. Shepherd was eight down after 17 holes of the 36-hole event and four down with four to play. He won on the second extra hole. Photo credit: The R&A.

highlights that I can watch on YouTube one night. It’s just amazing how things can change.

“Looking back on it, winning the 18th was so important. I just managed to get into a bit of a groove in the afternoon once I won a few holes.

“I can’t describe how I felt coming down the last four holes but I was in a calm place. In the morning, I was all over the place and was more concerned about being sick on live tv.”

On playing in the 149th Open this month, he smiled: “It’s just going to be really special. Whatever happens in the events I’m now going to play, nobody can take that experience away from me.

I’m so looking forward to testing my game out against the best players in the world.

“I’ve played a few South East links championships at Royal St George’s and I’ve always enjoyed the course. It’s the closest one to my home address in Sussex in terms of The Open venues. I went there as a kid watching Opens.”

Scowsill, 25, an ex-University of Exeter student, made a hat-trick of birdies from the fifth hole – including a wonderful chip in from the back of the par three sixth – to seize the initiative on a pleasant morning with little breeze.

Shepherd, who now lives in St Andrews after graduating, passed up an opportunity at the eighth and found himself four down after nine holes.

Scowsill quickly made another birdie to extend his lead as he played the opening 10 holes in four under par. Shepherd saw another chance slide by from seven feet on the short 11th, before three putting the 14th to fall six holes behind.

Scowsill, a former cricketer, then drove the 303-yard 15th to set up a winning birdie. Shepherd then also three-putted the 17th to fall eight behind but he claimed his first hole of the match after Scowsill went out of bounds with his tee shot on the 18th.

Shepherd was bidding for another victory for the University of Stirling after

Louise Duncan’s triumph in the previous week’s Women’s Amateur Championship at Kilmarnock.

He needed a fast afternoon recovery at Nairn – which last hosted The Amateur in 1994 – and secured his first birdie of the contest at the 23rd to return to six down.

Further birdies followed at the 26th and 27th to cut the deficit to four, but a bogey at the 29th saw Scowsill briefly go five up with only seven to play.

At the 30th, Shepherd’s par was good enough to claw one back but he soon found himself needing to win the last four holes to keep the match alive.

Incredibly, he did so in dramatic scenes, helped by superb birdies at the 33rd and 35th. At the par five 36th, Scowsill hit a tree with his drive and then lipped out for glory. At the 38th, it was all over as Scowsill three putted for bogey and Shepherd’s stunning comeback was complete.

Shepherd said: “I feel for Monty, he is a mate of mine. He did play so well, holed a lot of great putts. He didn’t give it away, he really didn’t. He holed greats putts on the 34th and the 35th to make me hole mine. It’s then a tough tee shot on the 36th and that kind of thing can happen.

“I said to my dad and girlfriend after the first 18 holes that I felt really, really flat and didn’t have any adrenaline.

“I can’t remember the last time I played 36 holes in a day, never mind three days in-a-row. Touch wood, my body is feeling good, there is still work to be done in that area, but I managed to get the motivation going on the back nine.”

A dejected Scowsill added: “It’s really tough to take. I was in command all the way, really. I finished poorly and Laird finished very well, to be fair to him. That’s golf.

“I wouldn’t have done anything differently. I just didn’t hit the shots when I needed to on the back nine. It happens.

It was my morning, it was his afternoon.

“On the 36th hole I was trying to hit it down the left side and I just hit it a bit full and it hit the tree. It’s still been a good week and congratulations to Laird.”

This picturesque, well groomed 18 hole course is on flat easy walking land and is adjacent to the Tarawera River. Mountain views and the bird life add to the enjoyment for all players. The 6th, 15th and 18th holes, make the course a true test of a golfer’s skills. We are open all year round with no tee off times needed. The course is only 40km east of Rotorua and situated at the south end of the Kawerau township.

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July 2021

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July 2021

9

Millbrook Village all action

By Neville Idour

GOLF NEWS

A

Work being done at Millbrook Resort near Queenstown. Photo credit: Neville Idour.

recent visit to world class Millbrook Resort near Queenstown revealed major developments and upgrades underway in and around the Village Centre amenities. They are being targeted towards coinciding with the opening of the new Coronet nine holes later in the year.

The aim is to enhance the member and guest experience as Millbrook prepares for the launch of the 36-hole offering which will feature at the 2022 New Zealand Open. The first two rounds will be played on the Remarkables 18 and the two weekend rounds on the Coronet Championship 18.

The $4 million-plus project features a new practice putting green near the golf shop and reception building. The enhanced golf cart storage and grooming facility buildings are being built on the previous putting green. The golf shop is being refurbished and includes a new retail fit out.

It was also exciting to see that the iconic and hugely popular Hole in One bar and café was closed and is undergoing a complete refurbishment. The finished article will be eagerly anticipated.

Road access to the central facilities will be upgraded and a 25 metre wide treelined boulevard will be created between the new cart barns and golf shop. It has been designed as a shared space for pedestrians, golf carts and vehicles from the reception area and other facilities.

There will be improvements to the arrival court and entranceway which will be enhanced by hard and soft landscaping.

These projects are all part of the overall developments at the resort. The almost completed Mill Farm area is quite spectacular as it includes the new Coronet nine holes and residential areas associated with it.

Management is confident work will be completed by December. Certainly an exciting timeframe to look forward to.

Three Kiwis for The Open

By Neville Idour

I

t is hard to remember The Open Championship having three New Zealanders in the field but that is the reality for the 149th edition beginning on July 15.

Ryan Fox, Danny Lee and Daniel Hillier will tee it up at Royal St George’s Golf Club situated at Sandwich Bay, a long sweeping inlet on the east coast of Kent in England.

Lee, who’s recent form has been anything but inspiring, qualified through a good finish at the 2020 Arnold Palmer Invitational. He will be looking to expunge the memory of his embarrassing melt down and walk off at last year’s US Open when he still had an opportunity for a good finish.

Fox qualified as a result of his impressive form in winning the Australasian order of merit. Some of his best play in Europe has been on links courses so he will hope to emulate that this time.

On the other hand Daniel Hillier, who is relatively new

10

on the international circuit, had to win his place through a nerve wracking qualifier recently completed. Currently having some good results on the European Challenge Tour, he produced his best form to win the final qualifier at Hollinwell in Nottinghamshire.

His first round 64 contained an impressive 10 birdies and featured a remarkable run of five birdies from the 13th hole. A solid 69 second round with a final hole birdie, clinched a one shot victory. This will be his second major, having played in the US Open.

Hillier said: “I got on a good run and just tried to keep it going as long as I could. It’s a dream come true. I’ve always wanted to play in major championships, so I’m really excited.”

After his experience at the US Open where he failed to make the cut he will be keen to go one better and be one of the 70 plus ties who play the weekend.

This will be the 15th time the Open has been held at

July 2021

Royal St George’s and the course, which measures 7189 yards (6583m) and is in the midst of salt marshes, sand flats and sand dunes, is in a perfect setting for links golf.

In preparation for The Open, alterations have been made to the course. Watch out for holes four and seven where two large bunkers have been restored, while on 17 two large bunkers to the left have been replaced by a swale.

The last time the event was held at Royal St George’s was in 2011 when Darren Clarke won, while the current defending champion is Shane Lowry. Expert (?) pundits have him at 40-1 odds while they have installed Jon Rahm as favourite and are picking Justin Thomas to do well.

Editor’s note: The last time New Zealand had more than two Kiwis in the field was in 2009 when Michael Campbell, David Smail, Mark Brown and Josh Geary played at Turnberry.

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Yuka Saso: Equal youngest US Women’s Open winner

Yuka Saso, from the Philippines, with the United States’ Women’s Open trophy. Photo credit: Robert Beck / USGA.

Y

uka Saso converted a 12foot birdie putt on the third hole of a tension-packed play-off to seal an historic victory in the 76th United States Women’s Open – and spark celebrations in her home country of the Philippines.

At the age of 19 years, 11 months and 17 days, Saso

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joined World Golf hall of fame member and seven-time major championship winner Park Inbee as the youngest champion in US Women’s Open history – to the very day.

Saso also became the first player from the Philippines to have her name engraved on the Harton S Semple Trophy. Prin-

cess Mary Superal (2014 US Girls’ Junior) is the only other player from the Philippines to claim a United States Golf Association title.

“I don’t know what’s happening in the Philippines right now, but I’m just thankful that there’s so many people in the Philippines cheering for me,” Saso said after the win.

Saso, whose golf swing looks similar to that of Rory McIlory, is best known in our part of the world as the runner-up to Atthaya Thitikul in the inaugural Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific in 2018.

On that occasion, Saso was beaten in a play-off. This time, it was the Filipina who prevailed in extra time against Japan’s Nasa Hataoka. Both players made back-to-back pars in the two-hole aggregate play-off on holes nine and 18, which then went into sudden-death. It culminated on the ninth green where Saso snared a breaking right-to-left putt.

“I don’t know how to thank them (the fans). They gave me

July 2021

so much energy. I want to say thank you to everyone,” added Saso, a two-time winner on the LPGA Tour of Japan, who turned professional last year.

Saso, a semi-finalist in both the 2016 US Women’s Amateur and 2019 US Girls’ Junior, entered the final round two strokes behind American Lexi Thompson and quickly became a seemingly afterthought with back-to-back double bogeys on holes two and three.

Her front-nine 38 left her five strokes behind Thompson. But Saso never lost focus as Thompson started to crumble. Consecutive birdies on the par five 16th and 17th holes tied her with Hataoka and Thompson.

Thompson, the 54-hole leader, had been five strokes ahead of her closest pursuers with 10 holes remaining, only to play the final eight in five over par, including consecutive bogeys on 17 and 18 that left the 26-yearold Floridian with a final-round 75 and a 281 aggregate.

NEWS That was one stroke shy of Saso, who signed off with a 73, and Hataoka, who closed with a brilliant 68.

For 22-year-old Hataoka, a former Faldo Series Asia Grand Final winner, it was a second major play-off loss. She was edged out at the 2018 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship and has now been defeated in all four play-offs in which she’s competed.

Just reaching the play-off was a remarkable feat for Hataoka given that when she bogeyed 11, she was seven shots off the lead. But she quietly climbed back into contention with consecutive birdies on 13 and 14, and another on 16.

As well as banking a cheque for $US1 million, Saso’s success means she’s exempt from qualifying for the next 10 US Women’s Opens and the next five AIG Women’s British Opens, KPMG Women’s PGA Championships, Evian Championships and ANA Inspirations tournaments.

11

Daughter’s words were inspiration to American golf super woman GOLF NEWS

D

octors, psychologists and life coaches often talk glibly about striking a healthy work-play balance in your life. In reality, however, such a state can be almost impossible to achieve.

One person better placed than most to pass judgment on the subject is Suzy Whaley, who has spent the past three decades seeking to juggle a high-profile career in golf while bringing up two daughters.

Finding the right balance between the two lives proved one of the toughest challenges of all for the pioneering American.

Whaley, who recently completed a two-year term as the first female president of the PGA of America, cited the turmoil she endured when at the peak of her golf-playing powers, while her daughters were still infants.

“I’ve had so many candid conversations about this and I think we have to be honest,” said Whaley, whose abilities faced their most stringent examination in 2003, the year she became the first female in 58 years to participate in a PGA Tour event.

At the time, Whaley had her first job as a head professional at a public golf course, while her husband was general manager at the facility where the Greater Hartford Open was being played, and for which she had qualified.

Whaley, whose daughters were then aged six and eight, recalled: “Both of us were working long hours as PGA professionals. And here I was going to try and compete against the best male golfers in the world in front of 40 million people.

“You think about how you’re going to manage that as far as being a good mum. I wanted

Suzy Whaley. Photo credit: PGA of America.

to have great kids, for them to know they were my priority.

But we realised very quickly there is no such thing as worklife balance.”

After spending three tortuous months weighing up the pros and cons of whether to accept her exemption to the Greater Hartford Open, it was the words of one of her daughters that helped Whaley make her decision.

Whaley said: “I was reading a story to her at night about being brave and courageous and taking opportunity when it came along. She looked right at me and said: well, why aren’t you playing? For me that was the deciding point. I walked downstairs and told my husband we’re in.

“I had six months to wait to tee it up. I worked incredibly hard and tirelessly to be as prepared as I possibly could.

I knew I wasn’t going there to

win a PGA Tour event but it turned very quickly into representing women’s golf and representing opportunity for women.

“It was the first time in years a woman had been on the cover of golf magazines and people were talking about women’s golf. I was incredibly proud to participate and play.

“As nerve-racking as it was, as challenging as it was, it’s something I hold dear because my daughters remember it.

They went through it with me.

They know they can do everything in their power to prepare and hold their head high no matter the outcome. Enjoy the experience, no matter the performance.”

Whaley acknowledged that it would not have been possible to get through that period without widespread support from those around her.

“I found myself surround-

ed by incredible friends who took my children to doctor’s appointments, to school, would pick them up if they were sick. I had a boss who was willing to give me time in the morning to go for an extreme workout every day. I had staff that were taking on my responsibilities so that I could go and practice and play.

“You don’t do it alone. You can’t. I had this incredible husband who knew my attention was not going to be full on him for the next nine months.

It was a gift that he understood that, was in the same business that I was. I’m so grateful for that. It wasn’t a lack of wanting to be with him.

It was a lack of time.

“I think you have to work out what are the things that are most important to you, whether it be fitness or cooking or your children or your partner.

Or playing the game, which I

think is incredibly important as a PGA professional or a golf professional that you continue to hone your skills and have a high level of play.

“How in the work week can you fit in everything you need to … and what needs to give?

You’ll find the things that need to give. Sometimes it may be things you really don’t want to give up but you realise that’s not the first thing on your list for this particular time period.

“Understand that you’ll get back to it and that your children will survive it. I think my children are proud of the fact that I work and that I love what I do and that I’m happy with what I do. But they also know that I cherish them.

“Don’t be too hard on yourself. I was the mum that brought the brownies but did not make them and then put them in my own pan. You don’t have to be the amazing mum that gets everything perfect.

“You can’t be great at everything all the time. You have to prioritise. I think it’s really hard in today’s environment to work full time, to have a family, to have a dual working household, to manage a pandemic, to manage golf, when we’re exploding here in the US so our work weeks are doubly as long.

“You have to be in the minute. If you’re a coach and you’re teaching, the person in front of you is your key right then and there. If you’re with your family, you should focus 100 percent on them. If you’re in your work place or a meeting or trying to navigate something within your business, that should be your primary focus at that moment in time.”

Thankful social media was not around

O

ne of this century’s most astonishing feats by a female athlete may never have occurred if the incessant – and often toxic – chatter of social media had been around at the start of the millennium.

Suzy Whaley was thrust into the global spotlight in 2003 when becoming the first female since Babe Zaharias in 1945 to qualify for and participate against the world’s best male golfers in a PGA Tour event.

The day after securing her spot in the

12

Greater Hartford Open via sectional qualifying, Whaley received some 800 requests for interviews.

“We knew then it was a very big deal,” Whaley recalled recently.

Over the course of the nine months leading into the tournament, the mother-of-two conducted more than 3000 interviews – television, radio and print media.

Reflecting on her accomplishments, Whaley, by her own admission, is relieved she didn’t have to put up with the

scrutiny of social media.

“To be honest, I’m very grateful there wasn’t social media at that time. I received hordes of mail – from people who agreed with me playing … and people who didn’t agree with me playing.

“I can only imagine if social media had been a thing and if I would have been able to play to the best of my ability if people were chiming in on my decision, non-stop, twenty four/seven.

“Today, social media can drive you into a very dark hole, if you let it. Be-

July 2021

cause of that, I always try to be very positive on social media.

“When people are really taking a risk and stepping out of their comfort zone and doing something that no one else has done for a very, very long time we should be applauding that and celebrating that. We shouldn’t be judging it.

“I knew the opportunity I had to change people’s perceptions of women on a golf course. That was worth every second of it.”

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13

Golf emerges from coronavirus pandemic with flying colours

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ew figures reveal that golf enjoyed an increase in participation by 2.3 million on-course adult golfers in Great Britain and Ireland last year and the sport is now being encouraged to grasp the opportunity to retain new and returning players.

Research led by world governing body The R&A, together with England Golf, Golf Ireland, Scottish Golf and Wales Golf, demonstrates how the sport thrived in 2020 despite the significant challenges of covid-19.

Two new participation reports, produced by Sports Marketing Surveys (SMS), show that a significant number of players enjoyed golf on full-length courses as well as alternative forms of the sport, including the use of driving ranges, par-three golf and pitch and putt courses.

There was also an increase in the number of female golfers and a reduction in the average age of participants.

Phil Anderton, chief development officer at The R&A, said:

“We have seen a real surge in the number of golfers in Great Britain and Ireland playing the sport and this is reflected by the high demand for tee times and clubs reporting a strong interest in membership last year.

“Golf has shown that it can provide significant health benefits and this has been important for many golfers during these very challenging times.

“It is vital that golf seizes the opportunity to maintain this heightened interest by offering new and returning golfers compelling reasons to stay within the sport and enjoy it with friends and family.”

Key highlights from the 2020 Great Britain golf participation report were: * Total adult golfers on a fulllength course (nine or 18 hole) increased significantly by 2.1 million players to 5.2 million – the highest figure recorded this century. * Of these golfers, 36 percent identified as returning or new golfers – with 16 percent of

players starting or trying golf for the first time because of the pandemic. * The average age of golfers fell by five years to 41, with the majority of new golfers aged under 55. * 25 percent of female golfers were new to the sport – and tried it for the first time because of the pandemic. * Driving range use increased from 2.3 million to 4.3 million players. * Golfers who only used parthree courses more than doubled, and those who only played on pitch and putt courses more than tripled.

Following the easing of covid-19 restrictions, The R&A identified the need to further understand this demand and how different types of golfers were engaging with the sport.

A post covid opportunity research carried out by SMS in Great Britain and Ireland, along with findings from Bayfirth Research, details experiences of golfers during the pandemic,

their motivations for playing and their long-term plans for the future.

Among new golfers, 98 percent of those interviewed identified they are enjoying playing golf and 95 percent see themselves playing golf for many years to come.

The impact of covid-19 restrictions on mental and physical health and loneliness has been considerable with the research showing how golf has helped in these areas.

Key findings include: * Among avid/regular golfers, 31 percent identified they had experienced some negative impact on their feelings of loneliness/isolation as a result of the pandemic. Of these, 79 percent identified playing golf had a positive impact. * Among lapsed/returning golfers, 44 percent identified that they had experienced some negative impact on their mental health as a result of the pandemic. Of these, 92 percent identified playing golf

had a positive impact. * Among occasional/infrequent golfers, 34 percent identified they had experienced some negative impact on their physical health as a result of the pandemic. Of these, 70 percent identified playing golf had a positive impact.

The research also outlined recommendations that clubs can take to retain new players, including feeling welcome and valued; a friendly culture and relaxed atmosphere; participation options based on ability and experience; good customer service; having an efficient booking system; and the quality and maintenance of the course.

Anderton added: “The mental and physical health benefits of golf have helped boost participation in 2020 and that is hugely encouraging given the sport offers a wonderful form of exercise out in the fresh air for all ages and abilities.

United Arab Emirates golf course has developed into a sanctuary

A

golf club in the United Arab Emirates is making a name for itself for more than golf.

Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is celebrating momentous environmental milestones, positioning itself as a leader in enhancing, protecting, and nurturing the property and surrounding area.

These standout achievements have landed Saadiyat a nomination for the world’s best eco-friendly golf facility in the 2021 World Golf Awards.

Sustainability and environmental best practices have been at the forefront of Saadiyat’s strategy since opening, embracing its stewardship responsibility on the land it resides on. The club is now a thriving sanctuary for over 160 bird species, 250 plus mountain gazelles and a rejuvenation of native plants.

The Saadiyat team has also been supporting the efforts of Saadiyat Island’s hawksbill turtle conservation

14

programme. Thanks to the collective efforts, hawksbill sea turtles continue to nest on this pristine island’s sweeping beachfront.

Master developer, Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC) began its hawksbill turtle conservation programme – the only one of its kind in the Arabian Gulf – in early 2010. The nine-kilometre Saadiyat Beach is now home to several hawksbill turtle nests each year, with each nest containing around 90 to 100 eggs.

Shortly after achieving Audubon Certification in 2020, Saadiyat made impressive strides in environmental practices by converting to 100 percent treated effluent irrigation water.

Saadiyat is a 140-hectare facility, with 120 hectares being irrigated through an automatic system. The conversion of the irrigation water source is a major positive

July 2021

move for suitability on the island.

Producing year-round championship golf course conditions in the heat of Abu Dhabi is challenging and to have such a dramatic change in water quality has taken some adapting to.

Within the 160 bird species spotted at Saadiyat Beach, there was one extremely rare bird sighting: a juvenile steppe whimbrel was captured on camera. This caused worldwide excitement and showcased Saadiyat Island to the wildlife community.

The discovery of a steppe whimbrel in Abu Dhabi confirms the migration route of the sub-species passes through the Arabian Peninsula region. The sub-species was declared extinct in 1995 and it is the first-time ever, anywhere in the world, that a juvenile steppe whimbrel has been seen in the field.

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July 2021

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Russley Golf Club Golf NZ’s Club of the Year

GOLF NEWS 16

R

ussley Golf Club won one of the most sought-after awards, Club of the Year. The award was given to a club demonstrating excellence and has an outstanding record of achievement across all aspects of its operations.

Russley Golf Club is performing well financially and are always keen to be involved in anything golf in Canterbury. They run She Loves Golf, Futures, and All Abilities programmes, and are always thinking of how they can grow participation not only at their own club, but in the region as well.

Russley Golf Club General Manager Giles Beal says “It’s fantastic news. The members will be really pleased to hear we are the club of the year. We’ve been doing a lot over the last couple of years trying to make the club a better place for them.

“We’ve been very supportive of the Golf New Zealand initiatives like She Loves Golf and Futures. We are just trying to get more people playing golf in the region and be good citizens of golf in New Zealand.”

Meanwhile, Leo Barber won Administrator of the Year for his leadership at Paraparaumu Golf Club. The award was given to an administrator serving the sport at club, regional or national level who has made an outstanding contribution to the growth, success, enjoyment, or profile of the game in their administrative role.

Barber lives and breathes everything Paraparaumu Golf Club and was able to navigate the club’s way through Covid-19 with excellence. His communication with his board, staff, and members was exemplary, and has since been embracing the strategic opportunities after weathering the initial period of Covid-19.

Barber says “As an administrator it’s not uncommon to hear what you might be doing wrong. At the end of what has been a tough year for everyone, it’s very humbling to have been acknowledged for perhaps getting some things right. I’m very proud.”

Rhys Bishop won the Leadership in Golf award which was awaded to a

leader who is not only inspiring others but driving meaningful improvement or change for the betterment of golf.

Through Bishop’s leadership position at The Golf Warehouse, the company and it’s people heavily support Futures and All Abilities through programmes and access at their facilities. The company has also created a welcoming environment for new players, as their facilities are quite often where people hit their first shot.

Bishop says “Awards aren’t usually things I aspire to attain, but it’s quite nice to be doing your job and be recognised by others. My job is to help people play golf, whether that is customers walking through the door or whether it’s staff who want to be good golfers. It’s cool to be recognised for doing that.”

The Professional Player of the Year award went to Lydia Ko for being New Zealand’s leading professional in 2020.

Ko managed to get back in the winner’s circle for the first time since 2018, as well as shooting a final round of 62 at the ANA Inspiration which has been labelled by some as the most impressive major round in history.

Female Amateur Player of the Year was awarded to Amelia Garvey. Garvey qualified for the US Open for a second time in 2021 where she made her professional debut. She also qualified for the Augusta National Women’s Amateur – an invitation-only event held at both Champions Retreat Golf Club and Augusta National.

James Hydes won Male Amateur of the Year after a stellar 2021 in New Zealand which saw him win the Autex Muriwai Open and the New Zealand Amateur Championship, as well as finishing in second place at The Carrus Open and third at the Pegasus Open.

The All Abilities Golfer of the Year was won by Andrew Woo of Maungakiekie Golf Club. The award was given to a player who has inspired others to play golf and have overcome an obstacle to play golf. Woo has shown dedication and passion to the game, and has been one of the lead voices in the All

July 2021

Abilities space in New Zealand.

The Golf Event of the Year was awarded to the Brian Green Property Group NZ Super 6’s held at Manawatu Golf Club. The event boasts a unique format on the final day where the top-24 players progress to the Super 6 Sunday.

The players go head-to-head playing medal match play over six-holes until a winner is found. In 2020 Daniel Hillier prevailed over amateur Jang Hyun Lee in the final to win his second Jennian Homes Charles Tour event.

Ryan Fox has been awarded the Golf Performance of the Year for his final round at the ISPS HANDA Vic Open. He carded a final round of eight-under in trying conditions to rocket up the leaderboard into second-place.

Sean Foley has been awarded the Professional Coach of the Year award for his work with Lydia Ko. The award went to a coach that coaches a New Zealand Player. Foley has been an instrumental influence in helping Ko reach the peak of her game once again.

Under Foley’s tutelage, Ko has returned to the winners circle on the LPGA Tour for the first time since 2018.

The Environmental Club of the Year award went to Royal Wellington Golf Club who are demonstrating an excellence in commitment to the environment.

Kerryn Jamieson won Community Coach of the Year for successfully contributing to the growth of participation in an enjoyable, engaging, and innovative manner at Windross Farm Golf Club.

Karen Craigie is a volunteer who is not only inspirational in their commitment to Rangiora Golf Club and the Canterbury region and contributes outstanding value to the game. She won the Volunteer of the Year.

The Futures Waikato Hub also won the Futures Impact of the Year award.

Golf New Zealand Chief Executive Dean Murphy says “The National Golf Awards are our chance to celebrate the dedication, commitment, and excellence across the whole golfing community. Despite a challenging year, the golf sector has done an outstanding job of navigating the pandemic and thriving through the challenges of 2020.”

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July 2021

17

GOLF EVENT

Waihi Pairs Triple Challenge 16th-17th October 2021 E ntries are now open for the seventh running of this popular event consisting of three different pairs competition to be held on 16th and 17th October, at the Waihi Golf Course.

The programme is Canadian Foursomes on Saturday morning, and fol-

lowing a provided light lunch, Scottish Foursomes in the afternoon. On Sunday morning the competition is Four Ball Best Ball followed by prize giving which is planned to be completed by mid-afternoon to allow visiting team’s ample time to travel home. There are

Canadian Foursomes

two divisions: Men and Mixed.

The tournament has continued to be well supported with a group of loyal sponsors, with our major sponsors being Apata Group Limited and Avoco.

With this support we have a total prize pool in excess of $10,000, and in addi-

tion Expol are offering $1,000 for the first hole-n-one on the sixth hole for the whole tournament.

The entry fee is $120.00 per team.

For further information contact: The manager, Waihi Golf Club, 07 863 8678 or wahi@golf.co.nz

$120/Pair includes Saturday lunch

Scottish Foursomes Four Ball-Best Ball

Entries Close Friday 8th Oct.

waihi@golf.co.nz | www.waihigolf.co.nz | 07 863 8678

18

July 2021

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PGAPARS PGA professionals inspiring more people to play more golf pga.org.nz

wasting our time. During this time the support of expert coaching (not just direct complex technical instruction) and a learning environment that challenges the learner is vitally important.

During this workshop we discussed all the great work PGA professionals are doing over the country to help people learn new skills and what they are doing to support golfers as they go through the highly frustrating process of learning a skill through those first 20 hours.

Although the delivery differs from one professional golfer to another professional golfer, the process followed was very similar. Examples are:1. Set a target/goal of what you want to be able to do. If you are new to the game and want to learn how to play golf then your goal maybe to play nine holes with friends in a month’s time or it maybe to confidently play a high lob shot.

2. A PGA professional provides necessary guidance on how to perform the skill or skills.

3. Making time and eliminate the barriers to practice (practice in a space where you are not going to be distracted).

By Dominic Sainsbury New Zealand PGA General Manager

W

e have just completed another fantastic PGA education school at the Formosa Country Club in Auckland, which by the way is almost back to its glory days.

With 50 open minded PGA trainees engaging in education workshops from human resources to ergonomics and from event management to coaching, one session that really stood out was skill acquisition and the process of learning.

It has been widely promoted that it takes 10,000 hours of deliberate practice to be world class at a given sport but how long does it take us to be competent? The answer is 20 hours.

The first 20 hours are vitally important to learning a new skill and this relates to not just sport but to learning things such as a new language or a musical instrument.

During the first 20 hours we are in two stages of learning the cognitive and the associative stages.

The cognitive stage is highly frustrating and is the time when we give up. We feel as if we not getting it and that we are

4. Skills are performed under the guidance of a PGA professional in an environment that allows ``failing’’ (acronym for first attempt in learning) and apply the skill in the context of how you want to perform it.

5. Quality of practice is important. Hit each shot with a purpose and review what you are doing at the end of each session.

As you work through this process and start to get more confident, speed things up. This is when you transition from the cognitive phase into the associative

phase and are learning.

Most tour players treat every day as a school day with almost all top professionals having a PGA professional coach that they learn from.

We all have the ability to learn and get better at a given task or skill and if you follow the process above you can improve your golf game and enjoy your golf even more.

If you want to enjoy your golf more or learn a new skill then reach out to your local PGA professional at www.pga.org. nz/find-a-pga-pro?ComeFromCat=875

Golfers fully engaged in learning the skill of pitching.

WAITOMO GOLF CLUB

invites you to the

Osborne’s Best Ball Challenge

“TEE FOR TWO” GOLF PACKAGE Play Kauri Cliffs + accommodation at Stone Store Lodge ü TWO golfers enjoy One Round of Golf each (Green Fees) at Kauri Cliffs Designed by David Harman **one of the top 100 courses in the world** www.kauricliffs.com ü TWO nights accommodation in a Deluxe Suite Dble/Twin suite with Inlet views, at Stone Store Lodge Kerikeri **201 Kerikeri Road** ü Self-service continental style breakfast is provided

NZ$860 for TWO *

*Must be NZ residents. International players ADD $570 TERMS & CONDITIONS: Above pricing is valid until 30th April 2021.

Outs ide these dates please look at ou r webs ite

• NON Golfer Substitute: A selection from Health-Herbal-body treatments • No refund for unused services • Rain check available due weather within validity • Based on two persons - share Twin or Double Occupancy • Air and land transportation not included • Prices are GST inclusive • Golf carts not included

Where: When: Entry: Format:

Waitomo Golf Club Sunday 8 August 2021, Tee off @10.30am Teams of 2 – OPEN ENTRY - Men, Ladies, Junior or Mixed 18-hole Best Ball Stableford Competition

LODGE IS ALSO AVAILABLE FOR EXCLUSIVE USE! Min. 2 nights. Use our fully equipped kitchen, self-catering. Lodge serviced daily.

If you have more than 6 golfers or are international golfers please enquire.

**FIRST PRIZE**

Generously sponsored by

ROUND OF GOLF for 2 plus CART at Wairakei Golf & Sanctuary VALUE $450.00 (conditions apply) + Great Minor Prizes All individual entries qualify for the **LUCKY DRAW PRIZE** VALUE $200.00

ENTRY DETAILS Entry $40 per person (incl. twos) Entries on day up to 10 am Prepaid entries preferred Bank account for payment: 02-0316-0522534-06 Code: Osbornes Ref: BB 183/220

Waitomo GolfGolf Club,Club, GolfSH3, Rd, SH3 Otorohanga Waitomo Otorohanga Phone:Phone Margaret Wereta Email: waitomogolf@outlook.co.nz Murray Jones027 027235 2298241 8437 Email murray@otctimber.co.nz

For reservations contact richard@stonestorelodge.co.nz www.stonestorelodge.co.nz | Ph (09) 407-6693

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July 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

THE BEST FROM IAN HARDIE

ianhardie.net

At the end of the day it’s just a game of golf

By Ian Hardie NZPGA Professional

I

f you have been reading my articles in Golfer Pacific over the past few months, you may have noticed I spend a lot of time writing about things that are ultimately aimed at improving your performance on the golf course.

To put it another way, they are mostly all about playing better golf.

While that’s something that is personally important to a lot of golfers around the world, many of whom spend a fair chunk of their life being focussed about their game of golf.

Their thoughts dominated by their personal performance (or lack of it on occasion) and a large amount of their waking hours dedicated to working on their game to get the very best from it.

Which by the way, you actually have to do, if you want to play golf well.

From time to time, it helps to take a step back and get some perspective about the game of golf.

Simply because while your performance on the golf course yesterday, today or tomorrow.

May be the thing that is in the forefront of your mind right now, the result of which may elicit dramatic swings in your moods and possibly even, some other behaviours before, during or after the game.

I’m going to ask you to put those thoughts aside for a moment and consider a conversation I had with a golfer a while back that really made me think.

The golfer in question had been going through the belongings of his parents as his mother had recently passed on and as a result his father had to be moved to an assisted living facility as his health had

deteriorated to a point where he needed full time care.

Even though there were a lifetime of possessions in the house, his father was beyond caring about those things.

I could sense the sadness that the golfer was feeling as he conveyed to me the realization that as he was sorting through everything his parents had collected over the years.

Everything they had, needed to be labelled one of four ways: Something to donate.

Something to give away.

Something to throw away.

Lastly, something of value or meaning to those who are still around.

I have experienced a similar situation myself quite a few years back, so I understood what the golfer was saying but the point I am hoping to convey with this article that is different.

Is the fact, that a lot of the items in the golfer’s parent’s house were golf trophies, awards and recognitions of things like course record scorecards, team and representative photos.

Not to mention, a large amount of old golfing equipment.

Things that had massive meanings to the golfers at the time but were of little value to anyone else now, after they passed on or became unable to remember.

So, the next time you head out to play a game or practice your golf, take a moment to think about how important your result really will be in comparison to every other part of your life.

Like family, friends and the contribution you make to others.

Right now a good game may become a fond memory or perhaps an exceptionally motivating story to tell your family,

friends or workmate.

But is it really worth getting so worked up before the game that you can barely think about anything else?

Is it really worth it, that you dwell on a bad game or the fact that someone beat you that day?

Because in reality, a bad game is just a blip in time.

A four hour game of golf is just 16% of a single day, 2% of a single week or 0.04% of a single year.

It’s an incredibly small and insignificant part of a lifetime (as long as no one dies due to your bad performance).

So, does it really matter how you went?

Because as much as it may hurt today, some day in the future.

No one will remember that you even played that game.

In reality, a game of golf is simply that.

A game of golf.

Play it as well as you can, go for every logical shot with as much effort as possible but remember that the result does not define you.

It is just one more event or activity in your life, a blip in time that by its very na-

ture should be fun and inspiring.

Keep it in perspective, relative to what’s happening with your family or friends and the contribution you make to others over your lifetime.

I know that for a while you’ll have memories and stories of your good games, which can build your confidence in other areas of your life.

Eventually though, they will become remnants of days gone by and someday no one will care what you shot or what place you finished.

You probably won’t remember either.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that golf isn’t an important part of any golfer’s life.

In fact, it’s quite the opposite for me as I’m sure you can imagine.

I’m writing this hoping that somewhere around the world, a lot of golfers will read this and as a result cope better with whatever happens to them on the course next time out.

Because golf is a game, after all.

So, play well and enjoy it.

New Members & Visitors Welcome

GOLF OMANU

THE BAYS Group available BESTrates GOLFING Enquire via proshop@omanugolf.co.nz EXPERIENCE A great destination for your next golfing trip

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.

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

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

July 2021

For course availability book online or phone +64 7 575 5957 98 Matapihi Rd, Mt Maunganui

www.omanugolf.co.nz 21

Queen’s Honour for the Golden Gal to Long Drive

Driving business to golf I

Phillis seen on 2021 XDL Championship posters

P

hillis Meti has been named the Golden Gal to Long Drive and now she is listed on the New Zealand Order of Merit for her contribution to sport in particular to Golf/Long Drive. IGANZ CEO. Olna Ford, proudly nominated Phillis with the reference from many who were fortunate to witness this incredible athlete perform and coach. I’m super proud of Phillis and grateful she has been acknowledged for her commitment and achievements in sport. She is a 3 x World Champion and 2 x World Record Holder in Long Drive and the reason why IGANZ committed to this sport. When an athlete motivates a company you know you have a super human and this is what Phillis Meti is. A strong yet graceful woman, with a heart of gold, Phillis has gone above and beyond for sport and her peers. I feel truly blessed to have such a dynamic athlete representing Long Drive who is dedicated to the development and growth of the sport. I am grateful to our government who has recognised the commitment + investment made by IGANZ to the sport of Long Drive which has placed New Zealand at the forefront of this sports success, says Olna.

Long Drive now resides independently from Golf and Olna Ford’s company, now listed as National Sports Organisation for both Long Drive and Xtreme Drivers League. Phillis is an all round athlete that has accomplished so much. The Queen’s Honour means the world to Phillis and all

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those that have cheered for her achievements to be recognised. She is the current New Zealand XDL Champion, winning the New Zealand Championship for the 3rd year in a row since the Women’s Division was promoted in 2018 by IGANZ. Captain of the New Zealand Long Blacks (Women’s Team) Phillis will be helping grow the participation of women in the sport both in New Zealand and Australia.

The poster gal for the sport and definitely the Queen of Long Drive. Congratulations Phillis!

GANZ is proud to be a New Zealand company growing the sport of Xtreme Drivers League both nation-wide and globally. Investing in over 5 million thus far, IGANZ has showcased the sport of Long Drive in 5 countries completing 26 events since 2016.

Creating sports history for NZ, Long Drive and Xtreme Drivers League are now listed as high-performance sports, independent from Golf.

IGANZ - CEO, Olna Ford, has 8 registered trademarks around the sport and Xtreme Drivers League a strong focus to grow the professional division of the sport. IGANZ organically promotes Golf in day to day business. Investing as a sponsor to Long Drive, XDL and Golf has obvious benefits.

As a sponsor to Golf we get to be part of great events and promote our sport of Long Drive and the professional division of Xtreme Drivers.

Golfers are the perfect demographic as players are familiar with Long Drive and they have the muscle memory and techniques from their Golf Swing. Great to see Pro-Golfers hitting against the best Drivers.

IGANZ is known to be a major and gold sponsor to PGA tournaments in New Zealand and with this the sport of XDL is promoted along with the New Zealand Long Blacks the National Team of Xtreme Drivers. From 2022 the sponsorship investment will grow with more events in Australia. The vast opportunities in Australia

are heightened because IGANZ major sponsor Cavalier Homes reside in NZ and AU. We know too well how sport needs sponsors, it seems a natural response to be giving back as a sponsor being an organisation growing sport. I’ve been named a philanthropist and have given back to good causes since my early 20’s, it’s innate, says Olna. Looking forward to growing the dynamic and high-performance sport of Long Drive and Xtreme Drivers whilst promoting the great sport of Golf. Interested in hosting an event contact the crew at www.iganz.co.nz

Phillis taking time to autograph caps for her fans

July 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

Presents: KAPI TAREHA MEMORIAL 54 Hole Stroke Play Tee Start 7:30am Saturday 14th $100 Entry $80 Earlybird Entry Paid by July 31st

Beyond the Tee with XDL G rowing the sport of Long Drive has been the mission since 2016 for Olna Ford, CEO of IGANZ, Xtreme Drivers League and New Zealand Long Drive. Recently recognised as the National Sports Organisation for Long Drive and Xtreme Drivers League, there is a strong focus to grow participation and adapt the ways Long Drive is promoted within the community. The pandemic challenged Olna to think about off-the-green activities and with this NEW business products and services have been drawn up and planned to come to life by summer 2021.

Top of the list are Simulator Trailers, Drive Cages and Mobile club fitting hubs.

Registration Online www.napiergolf.co.nz Or call 06 844 7913

A VISIT TO LOCAL HOBSONVILLE POINT SECONDARY SCHOOL

NAPIER GOLF CLUB 1215 Korokipo Rd

POOLS & SPAS 06 878 9671

Planned New Zealand Long Blacks Trailer

The IGANZ Collective is fast becoming recognised for the impact on the sport of Long Drive placing New Zealand at the forefront of this sporting success. IGANZ is focused on XDL becoming more accessible in 2022 and is excited about the XDL Virtual Tour Championship being launched with American Company Optishot. Proud to say the IGANZ designed the Xtreme Drivers League Grid here in NZ which has been uplifted to the Optishot software. Players all around the world will be able to register and compete against the best around the globe.

Taking the sport into the community has always been important since IGANZ’s first Long Drive event, better known as the International Long Drive Invitational 2016. International Long Drivers from Europe and America were sponsored to Auckland to showcase the sport and became famous when their hands were laid in concrete to commemorate the sporting event. Olna has and will continue to give back to communities and charities, her International players seen here cooking My Food Bag for the kids + families of the Ronald McDonald House.

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

Education and Participation are Key subjects for IGANZ.

Growing the sport for our future generations to come

IGANZ - 2 x New Zealand Long Drive Champion and New Zealand Long Black Thomas Woods seen here with our littlest champion of the day at the Pupuke Golf Club - Drive Cage promotion.

The New Zealand Long Blacks will be seen out and about in the community and requests can be made via www.iganz.co.nz if clubs, schools or businesses wish to have our National Team attend special events.

On road activities will be called Beyond the Tee with XDL and IGANZ looks forward to the first Drive Trailer being out this summer.

July 2021

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GOLF TRAILS

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGIONS

NORTHLAND WHANGAROA GOLF CLUB - NEWS PAR NZ BOI 4 COURSE CLASSIC

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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July 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

WHANGAROA GOLF NEWS -MIXED TEAMS‘ TOURNAMENT

SHERWOOD GOLF CLUB - PENNANTS

2021 Men’s Pennants -Winners Sherwood Park MultiSport Well done to our men’s pennants team, Multi-Sport, who made it to the final of this year’s men’s competition.

The final was played on Sunday, 13th June against Bay of Islands at Wellsford.

The photo of a proud and happy team to the right says it all!

Congratulations to you all. (L-R) Conor Matson, Simon Parker ,Thomas Keogh, Shane Johnston, Shaun O’Shea, Dan Cotton, Sean Doel, Vince Dempster and Brian Boys.

Everglades Golf Club

The Star

21 January 2021

Mark

Tracy

9x2

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.

MS8585

EVERGLADES TR

U

B

CO

UN

Y

GOLF

CL

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

July 2021

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WAIKATO

Junior Gross winner was Phil Jackson from Cambridge.

Senior Stableford winner was Sam Heenan from Taupo Intermediate Stableford winner was Tom Ratima from Foxton Junior Stableford winner was Jason Waters from Omanu.

John Natana Trophy best gross - Shaun Campbell 204 Brian Bradley Trophy best stableford Anthony Palmer 122

HUKANUI GOLF CLUB QUEENS BIRTHDAY SHIELD Hukanui Golf Club Queens Birthday Shield was proudly won by Neil McLean & Barry Waldron with 142 combined nett.

(Barry was also in winning partnership last year) Runner-up was Eddie Wullems & John

Warren Ruri trophy best Nett - Tom Ratima 205.

We had an awesome weekend and the course was in fantastic condition due to all of the hard working volunteers and they are also the reason that the whole tournament went so well.

Tulloch with 143.

Winner of Brian Bradley Trophy Best Stableford Anthony Palmer

BAY OF PLENTY KAWERAU GOLF CLUB 54 HOLE

By Judy Paterson The Tournament was a huge success. with fantastic weather on Saturday and on and off rain on Sunday.

Winner of the John Natana Trophy Best Gross Shaun Campbell Senior net winner was Aaron Rangihika.

Intermediate net winner was Anthony Palmer from Hamurana Junior net winner was Chris Hiwarau from Kawerau Senior gross winner was Shaun Campbell from Omanu.

Intermediate Gross winner was Flash Rowlands from Kawerau.

HAWKE’S BAY GOLF HAWKE’S BAY & POVERTY BAY WOMEN - THE FINALS OF THE CORONATION CUP FOR 2021

Winner of the Warren Ruri Best Nett Trophy Tom Ratima

The Finals of the Coronation Cup for 2021 was played on the 12th & 13th June at Napier Golf Club. It was contested by defending Champions Pongaroa, Wairoa, Maraenui & Takapau all seeking to get their name on the trophy for 2021.

With the teams playing 36 holes on

Abbeyfield House

“affordable living for older people”

18 Hole Charity Stableford Tournament At the Stunning Fairview Golf Course, Katikati

Format:

18 Hole Stableford Tournament

Registrations: Email: fundabbeyfieldwbop@gmail.com

Affiliated and Non-Affiliated Members Welcome

Include Name, Club, Player I.D & Contact PhoneNumber.

Date: Friday 10 September 2021

Online Banking: 38-9019-0720156-00 Abbeyfield/Name

Time: 10am Shotgun Start Entry fee: $30 ($25 Early Bird Special if you register and pay before 13 August) Complimentary Morning Tea served from 8.30am and Afternoon Tea after Golf.

Ref:

Mobile: Melva Howard 021 424 821 or Natasja de Graaf, 027 348 7748 Golf Carts available at $40. Please book direct through Fairview Golf Shop Tel: 07 5493412 or email: info@fairviewgolf.co.nz

Closing Date: Friday 3rd September 2021 (No refunds after the closing date.)

Score Cards pre printed on Thursday 9th September 2021.

All Proceeds going towards Building an Abbeyfield House

Prizes:

in Katikati.

Best Stableford Scores for Men & Women, Nearest The Pin & Longest Drive for Men & Women, Plus Spot Prizes, Raffles & a Silent Auction.

There will be a Putting Competition before the Tournament.

26

July 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

Saturday and 18 on Sunday the teams looked to get off to a good a start on Saturday as possible with the overall results never known until late into the Sunday round.

At the end of play on Saturday Wairoa were the front runner’s going in to Sunday just ahead of Maraenui. After a slight delay on Sunday due to fog the teams were back out for the last 18 holes.

Wairoa continued their form on Sunday with Maraenui close behind.

When all the results had been calculated Wairoa came away with 3 wins from

3 to win the Coronation Cup for 2021.

Maraenui were a close 2nd with 2 wins from 3.

Results were: 1st: Wairoa – 6pts – 23 Games 2nd: Maraenui – 4pts – 22 Games 3rd: Pongaroa – 2pts – 17.5 Games 4th: Takapau – 0pts – 9.5 Games

Non Grans: Claire Choi 18 hole & Julia McKenzie 9 hole

MARAENUI GOLF CLUB GRAND MOTHERS AND NON GRAND MOTHERS DAY WINNERS

Overall Winners: Grandmothers, Kath McCabe 18 hole & Jill McCarthy 9 hole.

TASMAN REEFTON GOLF CLUB – QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY RESULTS

By Brian Hampton The tournament had 90 players, with the weather on Saturday playing along with us, but Saturday night we had a lot of rain (about 45mm) we had to put back start time and had some members out getting water off green’s so play could go ahead, we had to make Sundays round 12 holes.

Winners and results are:

RARANGI GOLF CLUB WERE THE WINNERS OF THE TASMAN DISTRICT FINAL OF THE NATIONAL TEAMS EVENT Rarangi Golf Club were the Winners of the Tasman District Final of the National Teams Event played recently at Greenacres.

Rete Kydd, Andrea Thomas, Tracy Bary, and Denise Hodson.

CANTERBURY CANTERBURY GOLF - WOMEN’S 18 HOLE 6’S INTERCLUB FINAL

The Final of Women’s 18 Hole 6’s Interclub was played recently at Watikiri Golf Club in cool but calm, wintery conditions with the course in great order.

It had come down to the two top round robin zone qualifiers Bottle Lake and Russley 2 in the Final, and as has been the case in the majority of Women’s Interclub Finals this year, the teams couldn’t be separated at the end of 18 holes.

For Bottle Lake, Kathleen Thomson, Anna Webster and Margaret Scott had wins, while Margaret Ham, Chris Fahey and Geum Lee had wins for Russley 2.

A sudden death play-off was then required, and it was Kathleen Thomson who won the first play-off hole against

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

July 2021

27

Margaret Ham to claim victory for Bottle Lake.

The victorious Bottle Lake team from left are Margaret Scott, Erin Hesley, Kathleen Thompson, Marlene Campion, Sarah Sherwood and Anna Webster (Absent, Jan Hoare and Gillian Barnes)

CANTERBURY CENTRAL VS BULLER WESTLAND

The Canterbury Central vs Buller Westland Representive fixture was held recently at the Greymouth Golf Club.

In general the matches were very close contests as 12 of the 20 matches went down to the final two holes, with the following results: Women - Buller Westland 3, Canterbury Central 1 (Sarah Lurajud 4/2 win) Masters Men - Buller Westland 2, Can-

28

terbury Central 2 (Jonathan Stieller 1 up, Andrew Inch 5/4) Intermediate Men - Buller Westland 5, Canterbury Central 3 (Simon Edwards 3/2, Barrie Matthews 2 up, Steve Hygate 1 up) Senior Men - Buller Westland 2, Canterbury Central 2 (Hayden Clinton halved, Andrew Wylie halved, Devon Nightingale 1 up) Overall a win to Buller Westland 12-8.

Due to the weather, Sunday’s matches were abandoned.

CANTERBURY GOLF KAIKOURA CUP & TEMPLETON CUP FINALS

The Kaikoura and Templeton Cup Finals were played at Pegasus Golf Club on Sunday 23 May in fine, cool conditions and the course in great order.

In the Kaikoura Cup Final Amuri’s team of, from left James Cadenhead, Ross Forbes, Jason Sincock, Marcel Boet, Mike Toeke, Andrew Murdoch and Will Bastings defeated Rangiora’s Kazuma Kobori, Alisdair Reid, Ed Dickinson, Dan Gread, Kevin Jones and Mark Graham 7-2.

Amuri led 2-1 after the morning Foursomes and only dropped one match in the afternoon singles at the top of the order, with Kazuma narrowly defeating Canterbury Captain Mike Toeke.

The Templeton Cup was a nail-biter when Kaiapoi White and Waimak Black finished locked up 3-3 at the end of regulation play with wins to Jake Hosking, Jason Miles and Paul Hughes at the top of Kaiapoi’s order while Mike Frisby, Ross Gilmore and Gibb Johnston had wins for Waimak Gorge. It then when to a sudden death play-off with Kaiapoi White winning the first play-off hole. The winning Kaiapoi team of, from left James Maguire, Kevin Clarke, Andrew Hegarty, Paul Hughes, Jason Miles and Graham Moore (Manager on the day) are pictured left.

Absent Jake Hosking, (Kaiapoi’s no.1, who won every game he played in the competition and won the play off hole with a birdie).

OTAGO/SOUTHLAND

July 2021

AORANGI GOLF - GLENITI WIN SILVER PENNANT FINAL

The Silver Pennant Final was played between Gleniti and North Otago at the Geraldine Golf Club on 24 May in cold conditions. The matches were close with many finishing on the 18th hole. The Gleniti team of Jude Taylor, Patsy Milne, Jenny Johnson and Jo Goodhew won the match 7 ½ to 2 ½.

Silver Pennant Champions, Gleniti from left: Jude Taylor, Patsy Milne, Jenny Johnson and Jo Goodhew.

Results are as follows Singles Jude Taylor lost to Julia Knight 1 down Patsy Milne beat Karen Devlin 1 up Jenny Johnson beat Kath Rawcliffe 3/2 Jo Goodhew beat Bronwyn Gilchrist 2 up Fourball J Taylor & P Milne and J Knight & K Devlin square J Johnson & J Goodhew beat K Rawcliffe & B Gilchrist 4/3

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

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AORANGI GOLF - MAYFIELD AND RAKAIA TAKE OUT WOMEN’S PENNANT FINALS

The Women’s Open and Veterans Pennant Finals were played at Timaru Golf Club on Monday 14 June in fine but cool conditions.

Results are as follows: Open The Mayfield team of Christine Ross, Judy Webb, Lal Mulligan and Lynley MacKenzie defeated Temuka 1 by 7 1/2 matches to 2 1/2.

Above from the left - Open winners Mayfield 1 - Christine Ross, Lynley Mackenzie, Lal Mulligan, Judy Webb. (Others who played - Margaret Read and Marilyn Cross).

Singles C Ross beat D Taylor 4/2 J Webb lost to W Powell 3/2 L Mulligan beat L Stratford 3/1 L Mackenzie beat G Smith 1 up Fourball Ross and Webb beat Taylor and Powell 3/2

Mulligan and Mackenzie halved with Stratford and Smith Veterans Rakaia’s team of Sally Smith, Jill Burrowes, Val Sisson and Bev Sutherland defeated Tokarahi 7 - 3

Great day and support from 22 Manukorihi members supporting Inglewood Queens birthday tournament.

Above: from the left: Veterans winners - Rakaia - Val Sisson, Sally Smith, Jill Burrowes and Bev Sutherland. (Other team player Marion Wederell) Singles S Smith beat S McCulloch 2 up J Burrowes halved with R Sutherland V Sisson lost to D McKenzie 3/2 B Sutherland beat V Clarke 2/1 Fourball Smith & Burrowes beat McCullough & Sutherland 4/3 Sisson & Sutherland beat McKenzie & Clarke 2 up

Kinloch Village GC Dispite the showers & cold wind both visitors and members enjoyed KVGCs Ambrose Mid Winter tournament.

GOLF - QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY WEEKEND - THE RESULTS ARE IN

Cromwell Golf Club Don McDonald winning the Holm Cup with a Nett 68

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!

30

July 2021

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ROXBURGH GOLF CLUB IS CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF HOLDING ITS ANNUAL AUGUST TOURNAMENT

By Ann Hill Roxburgh Golf Club is celebrating 100 years of holding its Annual August Tournament. This has always been a crowd pleaser especially as it was formerly

held in the August School holidays over 4 days. Nowadays, School holidays are much later so numbers travelling to tournaments are reduced. However after last year’s Covid shutdown, we had a wonderful 2 days of golf with full fields for both days, including the 36 hole competition. Historically school children were available for caddying in their school holidays and earned a bit of extra

pocket money.

However, more and more golfers use motorised carts on the course and have battery operated golf carts, so there is little caddying. The Roxburgh Golf Club is celebrating 100 years of August Tournaments with an evening of entertainment with Jamie Mackay and Eric Olsen, two very gifted speakers on Friday 20 August at 7pm in the Roxburgh Rugby Club Pa-

vilion, followed by a light supper. A very warm welcome is extended to all past and present members and their partners to attend. Registration is essential by contacting Heather Hiscock, 021 2960395 h.hiscock@xtra.co.nz or John Pannett, 021 685056 johntinapannett@xtra.co.nz.

The cost is $25 and please direct credit Roxburgh Golf Club 02 0953 0018314 00, reference Surname and 100T.

2021 COUNTIES-MANUKAU VETERANS INTER-CLUB COMMUNITY 2021 Round

Club Venue®

SGS

Date

Cup Challenger

Host Convenor

VVV CUP WAITERIMU*

9.30 Mon 15 FEB^ Alternate Shot Pairs Paul Heath

Qualify 1 AWHITU*

9.30 Tue 2 MAR^

Qualify 2 CLARKS BEACH 9.30 Tue 30 MAR Qualify 3 ONEWHERO†

9.30 Fri 23 APR

Round Venue® Qualify 5 Club WAIKARE

SGS WedDate 9.30 16 JUNE

Awhitu Clarks Beach Onewhero

Phone

Email: Entry or Enquiry New Year W1/1-M 6/1

027 2911125

pgheath@xtra.co.nz

Bruce Wilson

09 2351299

awhitugolf@xtra.co.nz

Nev McSweney

021 869 434

nevillejud@xtra.co.nz

Les Johns

021 565411

lesleoniejohns@gmail.com

2021 VETERANS INTER-CLUB 2021 Waiuku Qualify 4 COUNTIES-MANUKAU WAIUKU 9.30 Tue 18 MAY^ Tim Howard 021 155COMMUNITY 4113 alhaurintim@yahoo.co.uk Cup Waikare Challenger

9.30 Tue Wed21MAR^ SEPT 9.30

Final 2 2 MARAMARUA 9.30 Thu SEPT Qualify CLARKS BEACH 9.30 Tue 30 MAR

Hauraki Awhitu Maramarua Clarks Beach Huntly/Waiterimu Onewhero

Final 3 3 ONEWHERO† HUNTLY Qualify

9.30 Fri Tue23 12APR OCT 9.30

Final 4 4 WAIUKU PUKEKOHE Qualify

9.00 Mon 18 8 NOV 9.30 Tue MAY^

Pukekohe Waiuku

CCC CUP5 WAIUKU† Qualify WAIKARE

9.30 Tue Wed23 16NOV^ JUNE

NettWaikare Strokeplay

027 021 2911125 294 8580 pgheath@xtra.co.nz s.j.ryan@hotmail.com

SteveCrooymans 0272351299 467 3209 awhitugolf@xtra.co.nz Bruce Wilson 09 crooymansfamily@xtra.co.nz AndreRuiterman 09 Nev McSweney 021236 8690513 434

CCC CUP WAIUKU†

9.00 Mon 8 NOV 9.30 Tue 23 NOV^

Pukekohe Nett Strokeplay

Easter Fr 2-Mn 5/4

Public Anzac StHolidays 24-Mn 26/4

acsr@actrix.gen.nz nevillejud@xtra.co.nz

Auckland Mn 28/1 SchoolAnn Hols 4-19/7 Monthly 5th Th Waitangi Th30/7 6/2 School SchoolHol Hol26/9-11/10 28/3-14/4 Labour Day 26/10 Easter Fr Mn 2-Mn 5/4

David Gardiner Tim Howard

027 155 280 4113 0515 alhaurintim@yahoo.co.uk gpesl@xtra.co.nz 021

Monthly Th 29/10 Anzac St5th 24-Mn 26/4

Tim NoelHoward Steele

021 155 4113 alhaurintim@yahoo.co.uk waikaregolf@xtra.co.nz

School Hol 17/12-22/1 Queens B’Day Mn 1/6

School Hols 4-19/7 YOUR LATEST COVIC & NEWS FROM Monthly 5th Th 30/7 crooymansfamily@xtra.co.nz GOLFING ACROSS NZ AND acsr@actrix.gen.nz School Hol 26/9-11/10 AROUND THE WORLD s.j.ryan@hotmail.com

mrrayntl@hotmail.com

David Gardiner

027 280 0515 gpesl@xtra.co.nz

Tim Howard

021 155 4113 alhaurintim@yahoo.co.uk

* 9-HOLE COURSE PLAYER LIMITS: BB Stroke Play 72; AS Pairs Play 84; 3-Person Ambrose 96. ® FEES: Q&F Rounds $20pp; Pukekohe F4, VVV, JJJ, CCC = $25pp. Note: Clubs may vary rate. † CONVENORS MEETING: Held in Clubrooms 90-Mins before Start | ^ Changed event dates.

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

School Hol 28/3-14/4

027 565411 813 6000 lesleoniejohns@gmail.com mrrayntl@hotmail.com 021

WATTLE DWNS* 9.30 Thu 29 JULY 3-Person Ambrose Steve Ryan 021 294 8580 * 9-HOLE COURSE PLAYER LIMITS: BB Stroke Play 72; AS Pairs Play 84; 3-Person Ambrose 96.

Final 1 HAURAKI† 9.30 Wed 1 SEPT Hauraki SteveCrooymans 027 467 3209 ® FEES: Q&F Rounds $20pp; Pukekohe F4, VVV, JJJ, CCC = $25pp. Note: Clubs may vary rate.

Final 2 MARAMARUA 30 SEPT 90-Mins Maramarua 09dates.

236 0513 † CONVENORS MEETING: 9.30 Held Thu in Clubrooms before Start AndreRuiterman | ^ Changed event Huntly/Waiterimu Final 3 HUNTLY 9.30 Tue 12 OCT Murray Liddle 027 813 6000 PUKEKOHE

Waitangi Th 6/2

Murray Liddle Les Johns

JJJ CUP

Final 4

Auckland Ann Mn 28/1

Host Convenor 021 Phone Entry or Enquiry New Noel Steele 155 4113 Email: waikaregolf@xtra.co.nz Queens Mn 1/6 YearB’Day W1/1-M 6/1

VVV CUP WAITERIMU* 15 JULY FEB^ Alternate Pairs Paul JJJ CUP WATTLE DWNS* 9.30 9.30 Mon Thu 29 3-Person Shot Ambrose SteveHeath Ryan Final 1 1 AWHITU* HAURAKI† Qualify

Public Holidays

July 2021

Labour Day Mn 26/10

Monthly 5th Th 29/10 School Hol 17/12-22/1

YOUR LATEST COVIC & GOLFING NEWS FROM ACROSS NZ AND AROUND THE WORLD

31

PHIL MICKELSON – CHAMPION – PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

BETTER FOR PHIL. BETTER FOR EVERYONE. 32

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July 2021

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