Golfer Pacific NZ – September 2021 by Golfer Pacific NZ

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

Suppor ter of

/golferpacificnz

ISSN 1178-0754 ISSN 1835-1336 XX 09

NZD $5.00 Subscription $60 per annum

The Scottish connection to Anna Nordqvist’s win at Carnoustie PAGE 3 INSIDE // LYDIA KO FIRST TO WIN TWO OLYMPIC GOLF MEDALS // KAIKOURA GOLF CLUB 110 YEARS YOUNG

EDITORIAL

pgueorgieff@yahoo.co.nz

Is there just six years more to go for Ko on the golf course? L

By Paul Gueorgieff Editor, Golfer Pacific NZ

ydia Ko recently reiterated her desire to retire from golf at age 30. Ko stunned the golf world in 2015 when she announced prior to the start of the Australian Open in Melbourne that she had no great ambition to be playing golf into her thirties. She was aged 17 at the time. Ko repeated the retirement thoughts prior to the start of the Women’s Open in Scotland last month. “I kind of set a goal of retiring when I’m 30,’’ she said. “I hope to not be playing when I’m 34. I love this game, but I feel like there’s also a lot of other things that I would like to do in my life.” Ko will turn 30 in 2027. She was born on April 24, 1997. New Zealand golf fans would have been disappointed with Ko’s initial announcement. Ko had vaulted straight to the top of the world stage and we selfishly would have been hoping she would fly the New Zealand flag proudly for decades more. We might allow Ko to drift off

the scene when she was in her mid-sixties. I jest. Or do I? But we have to remember golf, at the top level, has been Ko’s life since a young age. She became the youngest winner of a professional golf tournament when she won the New South Wales Open in 2012. She was aged 14. Later that year, at 15 years and four months, she became the youngest winner of a Ladies’ Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour event when taking out the Canadian Open. Ko was still an amateur and became the first amateur to win on the LPGA Tour in 43 years. Ko again won the Canadian Open the following year while still an amateur but turned professional a couple of months later. The fortunes have continued. She is now the winner of 16 tournaments on the LPGA Tour, the world’s richest women’s golf circuit. Two of the wins have been in major championships, the 2015 Evian Championship in France and the 2016 ANA Inspiration in California. Her prizemoney earnings on the LPGA Tour are about $US12

million. That’s more than 17 million in New Zealand dollars. She also has bronze and silver medals from last month’s Olympic Games in Tokyo and the Olympic Games at Rio de Janeiro in Brazil in 2016. They are all staggering figures. Also think about this. When Ko played in the Women’s Open last month it was her 10th appearance. Yes, I said 10th. That is amazing. For the record, since 2012, Ko’s finishing positions in order have been 17th, 42nd, 29th, 3rd, 40th, 59th, 11th, missed cut, 14th and 29th. When she finished 17th in 2012, Ko won the Smyth Salver for being the leading amateur and she shared that trophy the following year with Georgia Hall of England. But when it comes to longevity in the Women’s Open, it is 1986 winner Laura Davies who takes the prize. The Englishwoman was having her 41st consecutive start in the tournament last month and made the cut. Yes, I said 41st. Ko, remember, is still only aged 24. It will be another six years before she turns 30.

What she achieves between now and then is hard to predict but there is little question she has regained her best form after a period where she changed clubs, caddies and coaches like changes in the weather. She also appears to have gained length off the tee. What will Ko do if she does retire at 30? She is already enrolled with a South Korean university where she studies psychology via correspondence. “Psychology is something I’ve always been interested in,’’ Ko said in 2015. “It’s something I could connect with (through) golf and sport. “There are so many varieties of psychology -- there’s the biology part, there’s treatment. There’s so many things I didn’t realise (about it),” she said. One thing I have noticed is that Ko is very relaxed on the golf course. She is one of the few players who smiles walking down the fairway and is often seen congratulating others on their wins. May the smiles continue for at least another six years, or maybe into her sixties.

NEW ZEALAND EDITORIAL Paul Gueorgieff pgueorgieff@yahoo.co.nz Ph: 64 4 565 0385 Mob: 64 27 227 1038 SALES & CLUB PACKAGE GOLF TRAILS & NOTICEBOARDS Leigh Smith smith.sun@bigpond.com Ph: 0061 7 5504 6334 Mob: 0061 433 163 043 SOUTH ISLAND CONTRIBUTOR Neville Idour pmidour@hotmail.co.nz LAYOUT & DESIGN layout.golferpacificnz@gmail.com PUBLISHER Golfer Pacific NZ LTD PO Box 51338 Tawa, Wellington 5249, New Zealand ACCOUNTS Leigh Smith smith.sun@bigpond.com SUBSCRIPTION $60.00 per annum including GST smith.sun@bigpond.com Ph: 0061 5575 7444 Mob: 0061 433 163 043 NEW ZEALAND MAIL ADDRESS PO Box 51338 Tawa, Wellington 5249, New Zealand AUSTRALIAN MAIL ADDRESS PO Box 264 Chevron Island QLD 4217, Australia COVER PHOTO: Anna Nordqvist of Sweden holds aloft the trophy after winning the $US5.8 million Women’s Open at Carnoustie in Scotland. Photo credit: David Cannon R&A via Getty Images. COPYRIGHT All material published in Golfer Pacific NZ is subject to all forms of copyright. Contents of this newspaper cannot be reproduced in any way, shape, or form without the permission of the editor. Views expressed in editorial contributions do not necessarily refl ect the opinions of this newspaper, its management. New Zealand Golfer Pacific is published Golfer Pacific NZ Limited. The company’s registered office is unit 10/7 Aruma St Chevron Island QLD 4217.

GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS 1.1 All advertisements accepted for publication are subject in every respect to the approval of Golfer Pacific NZ Limited. The conditions set out in any Rate Card and Golfer Pacific NZ Limited Advertising Order Form are the rules applicable to advertising as laid down from time to time by the Australian Newspaper Council and the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC). 1.2 While every care is taken in the publication of advertisements, errors may sometimes occur. In such cases, no claim shall be made by or on behalf of the advertiser in respect of any error or its subsequent effects. If brought to our attention within 24 hours of publication, adjustments may be made, but only for the space actually occupied by an error. No responsibility is taken for any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear according to any instructions. No guarantee is given regarding the positioning of any advertisements. 1.3 Golfer Pacific NZ Limited reserves the right to change position, cancel, refuse, omit or postpone publication of any advertisement in any issue. 1.4 The word “advertisement” will be included in an advertisement if, in the opinion of Golfer Pacific NZ Limited, it resembles editorial matter. 1.5 If a proof is required prior to the publication, the advertisement must be a minimum size of 5cm x 1 column. One proof is provided for text corrections only; any additional layout revisions requested at the publication’s discretion and will incur a (non-commissionable) production fee. Advertisers will be charged for author’s text alterations required on third and subsequent proofs. 1.6 No responsibility is accepted for any error or omission of key numbers or telephoned alterations to copy. 1.7 No arrangements concerning an order can be recognised unless authorised or approved by Golfer Pacific NZ Limited in writing. 1.8 Requests for advertisements to be printed upside down or side-on or any particular arrangements of type or display are subject to rejections without notice. 1.9 All publishers’ conditions apply equally to all Golfer Pacific NZ Limited products, electronic or printed format. 1.10 Tear-sheets for advertisement publication verifi cation are available. Golfer Pacific NZ retains the right to publish advertiser and editorial content online using social media, the company and third party wesbites and our fortnightly email newsletter. Deadlines – The responsibility for supplying booked material by the required deadline lies with the advertiser/agency. Golfer Pacific NZ Limited accepts no responsibility for material not received by deadline and charges will apply.

A challenging links course that is playable all year round! We love having groups come and play our course and offer a discount for 12 players or more. Give us a call to enquire about bringing your golfing buddies, or a ladies golf group, to Ohope Beach Golf Links ... and think about combining it with a round at one of our neighbours; Whakatane, Opotiki, Kawerau or Te Teko.

September 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

nna Nordqvist is from Sweden and lives in the United States but there was a very strong Scottish connection to her victory in the Women’s Open at Carnoustie in Scotland last month. Nordqvist, 34, was virtually handed victory on the last hole when her main opponent Nanna Koerstz Madsen of Denmark, playing in the same group, shanked a difficult bunker shot which led to a double bogey. Nordqvist and Koerstz Madsen shared the lead at 12 under par as they teed off at the 18th hole on the final day but Nordqvist had the luxury of a tap-in par for victory after Koerstz Madsen’s blunder. Nordqvist’s caddie Paul Cormack is from Scotland and the golfer’s husband Kevin McAlpine is from Dundee, about a 20-minute drive from Carnoustie. McAlpine is a former top amateur golfer. He won the 2006 Scottish Amateur and is now caddying on the PGA Tour in the United States. He said earlier in the year it was perhaps best he did not caddie for his wife. “I think Anna and I know it isn’t a great idea to have a working relationship,” McAlpine said. “Not that it wouldn’t work, more that our personal relationship is more important and takes priority. If she was stuck and I wasn’t working, I would be more than happy to fill in.” Nordqvist’s win was her third in a major championship. The previous two were the LPGA Championship in the United States in 2009 and the Evian Championship in France in 2017. Nordqvist ignited her final day round with three birdies in four holes between holes six and 10 before a key par three save at the testing 16th. A host of challengers mounted their bid on a star-studded leaderboard during a dramatic final day, most notably Englishwoman Georgia Hall, the 2018 winner, who eagled both the sixth and 12th holes in her last round score of 67. First prize in the tournament was $US870,000, which is about $NZ1.2 million. Total prizemoney was $US5.8 million to make it the world’s richest women’s golf tournament and $US1.3 million more than the previous year. It has been announced that next year’s Women’s Open, to be held at Muirfield in Scotland, will increase to $US6.8 million.

Nordqvist’s victory in the 2017 Evian Championship had been her previous win and she said while the last four years had been tough she did not give up. “There’s just something about golf that keeps driving me,” Nordqvist said. “I hate losing probably more than I like winning. I think all the controversy and all the downs, and having my caddie and husband there pushing me every day being a rock; I hate to give up. “I feel like things have been coming together, and I saw a lot of good things coming last year and a lot of good things happening this year. To be able to get things clicking; I felt like last week at The Scottish Open, I played really well. I hit the ball really well in

that wind. So I think that was a confidence boost for me.” One of the highlights of the tournament was the performance of Scottish amateur Louise Duncan. The 21-year-old finished 10th at seven under par with rounds of 68, 73, 68 and 72 and earned her the Smyth Salver as the tournament’s leading amateur. Smyth Salver winners include major champions Michelle Wie West (2005), Nordqvist (2008), Danielle Kang (2011), Lydia Ko (2012, 2013) and Georgia Hall (2013). Ko, from New Zealand, finished 29th at two under par with rounds of 72, 71, 72 and 71. Her prizemoney was nearly $US45,000 ($NZ65,000).

GOLF NEWS

The Scottish connection to Anna Nordqvist’s win at Carnoustie

Louise Duncan (left) of Scotland won the Smyth Salver for being the leading amateur at the Women’s Open in Scotland last month. She poses alongside the tournament’s winner Anna Nordqvist of Sweden. Photo credit: David Cannon R&A via Getty Images.

Garvey through to stage two of LPGA qualifying By Neville Idour

melia Garvey was the only one of five New Zealanders to progress to stage two of the LPGA qualifying school after an outstanding effort, finishing tied fourth. Only those players who finished inside the top 95 and ties progressed to stage two which will be held from October 21-24. The event was played at four different courses with a top 135 cut after the third round. Garvey, from Canterbury, was sitting seventh after her first round 68 and moved up one place after a second round

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

69. A brilliant eight birdies and three bogeys for a third round of 67 moved her to second beginning the final round. A solid par final round saw her finish fourth on 12 under par, just two shots from the winner. It would not surprise to see her join Lydia Ko on the LPGA Tour before the year’s end. The other four battled but this was a strong field of 335 players and always a tough ask. Munchin Keh (Auckland) was so close yet so far finishing 96th, just one shot from moving to stage two. She looked good after three consistent rounds of 72, 73, 72 leaving her 80th. It

came down to Keh needing a birdie on the par five 18th in the last round but it did not eventuate and she had a score of 75. Julianne Alvarez (Wellington), who has had some starts on the Symetra Tour, couldn’t use that experience to good effect in the final round. After three rounds of 74, 72, 72 she was 99th, but her final round 77 was out of character with six bogeys, two on par fives, and just one birdie leaving her 124th. Laura Hoskin (Queenstown), despite three consistent rounds of 74, 73 and 73, missed the third round cut by one shot. Playing the 14th in the third round she

September 2021

was one shot inside the cut after three birdies and two bogeys and looking good to make the final round. Two bogeys undid that, leaving her on the 18th tee needing a birdie to progress. Unfortunately par was not good enough. However, the good news is she will still have some Symetra Tour status for the rest of the year as will Alvarez. Wenyung Keh (Auckland) was up against it after a first round 76. An excellent one under par 71 with a sole birdie but no dropped shots, gave some cause for hope. A final round 76 put paid to that. Fifteen dropped shots in two rounds were too much of a hurdle to overcome.

Nelly Korda wins three times in two months GOLF NEWS 4

he northern hemisphere summer of women’s golf this year surely belongs to Nelly Korda. The 23-year-old has experienced an exceptional northern summer which culminated in a gold medal at Tokyo Olympic Games last month. The summer of gold began with her win in the $US2.3 million Meijer LPGA Classic in Michigan in June. That was her second LPGA Tour win for the year, having won in February. Korda’s win in Michigan included a closing five under par 67 on the final day and the win was something of a rebound. Korda had missed the cut two weeks prior at the United States Women’s Open. The victory in Michigan, however, seemed not only to have helped the young golfer brush off her US Open woes but also triggered an impressive run of momentum. Just a week later Korda carried on her winning ways to clinch her maiden major championship in the $US4.5 million Women’s PGA Championship, and the American did it in some style. A final round of 68 secured a threeshot victory and, to top off her performance, Korda even came close to an albatross (a score of three under par on a hole) on the fifth after hitting a

Nelly Korda, winner of the gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics last month.

seven wood 243 yards to within less than half a metre of the hole. Her maiden major victory was an achievement only made sweeter by the additional cherry on top that subsequently followed. Korda’s win in the PGA Championships propelled her to the No 1 spot in the women’s LPGA rankings. The two conquests at once left the golfer in awe.

“Wow, just wow. A dream come true. A major championship and No 1 in the world; is this week even real?” Korda said. And just when it looked like it couldn’t get any better for Korda, she won gold in the women’s golf competition at the Tokyo Olympics last month. Korda finished the final day of the tournament at two under par 69, leav-

September 2021

ing her 17 under for the tournament. Her once unshakeable lead established in the first three days of competition took a slight knock after she shot a double bogey on the seventh, but Koda quickly rebounded with three consecutive birdies to stay on course for gold. With Korda’s victory, the United States completed a sweep of the Olympic golf competition after Xander Schauffele won the men’s tournament the week before. It is evident Korda has finally emerged triumphant out of her other family members’ shadows. Korda’s parents were both accomplished tennis players. Her father Petr won the Australian Open in 1998, while her mother Regina (neé Rajchrtova) is a former tennis world number 26 and competed in the 1998 Olympic Games at Seoul in South Korea. Sebastian Korda – Nelly’s brother – is currently excelling on the tennis circuit. The youngest Korda sibling is on a career high ranking of 45, and recently made it to the fourth round of Wimbledon in the men’s singles competition. As for Jessica, Nelly’s older sister, the two play side by side on the LPGA Tour. Jessica Korda, 28, has six professional tour wins to her name, with the most recent coming in January.

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

Lydia Ko first to win two Olympic golf medals

ydia Ko became the first golfer to win more than one Olympic medal when she finished third in Tokyo. The New Zealander was equal second after the regulation 72 holes but lost in a playoff for the silver medal and had to settle for bronze. Ko, 24, had won a silver medal at the 2016 Olympic Games at Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. No other golfer had previously won two Olympic medals although golf was only being held for the fourth time at Tokyo last month. Prior to Rio and Tokyo, golf was only held at the 1900 and 1904 games in France and the United States. Ko dedicated her bronze medal to her grandmother, who died just before the tournament started, and to her country. She survived a tense and see-sawing final day when four golfers vied for the medals. American Nelly Korda began the last round three strokes ahead of Indian surprise package Aditi Ashok and five ahead of Ko and Mone Inami of Japan. Korda shot 69 in the final round to finish 17 under par, Inami and Ko had 65s for 16 under and Ashok 68 for 15 under. Ko began the day in superb fashion, carding birdies on the second, third, fourth and fifth holes. Inami and Ashok faltered and when Korda had a double bogey on the seventh, she was suddenly sharing the lead with Ko at 14 under. However, after a sensational first nine of 31, Ko had successive bogeys, which took away much of her momentum. Inami fought back and Ashok lingered nearby. Korda always looked the most likely winner, but nothing was sure, especially when Ko birdied 13, 14 and 15 to put herself right back in the reckoning. When rain and lightning caused play to be temporarily

halted while the leaders were on the 17th, Korda was 17 under, Inami 16 under and Ashok and Ko were at 15 under. But Ko and Inami birdied the 17th. That meant going to the final hole, Ko needed a birdie to draw level with the leaders. Korda parred safely, Inami found herself with an awkward lie in a bunker and bogeyed and Ko missed a long putt for the birdie she was looking for. She left herself a putt of just over a metre to ensure a medal and breathed a sigh of relief when she sank it. In the silver medal play-off with Inami, Ko’s drive found the fairway bunker and she lost the hole. A feature of Ko’s play on the last day was how much she seemed to be enjoying herself. A smile was never far away, she high-fived Korda after the American sank a putt and then said admiringly, “a beauty” when Korda drove down the 18th. When Korda won the tournament, Ko went across and hugged her instantly. Ko was equally generous spirited towards Inami during the play-off. Later Ko said it had been an exceptionally emotional week for her. “We got the news that my grandmother had died when I was flying here,” Ko said. “In a normal week I’m not sure I would have competed. “But I wanted to do well for my grandmother, to make her proud.” Ko thought she played very solidly. “There were a couple of bits I could have done better, but you always feel that. I’d like to have won a different coloured medal, but I was very grateful to be one of the three medallists.”

NEWS

New Zealand star golfer Lydia Ko proudly poses with her bronze New Members & Visitors Welcome medal from last month’s Olympic Games in Tokyo. She is the first golfer to win two Olympic medals. Photo credit: International Golf Federation.

GOLF OMANU

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

SH58

Only 15mins from

Porirua & Hutt

d r o f e g d Join Jus

r e m m Su $525 thi

Summer Membership 1 SEPT 21 – 31 MAR 22 SPECIAL!

Online Form

www.judgefordgolf.co.nz

Apply NOW

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

$499 Pay Before 31 AUG

t meal a Enjoy a s Cafe ' Flighty b a or gra go to coffee September 2021

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

www.omanugolf.co.nz 5

Kaikoura Golf Club 110 years young GOLF NEWS Kaikoura golf course with the Southern Alps providing a stunning backdrop. Photo credit: Andrew Spencer photography. By Neville Idour

aikoura Golf Club has an almost iconic status within New Zealand. This is, in no small way, because of its annual professional-amateur event dating back to 2001. The tournament, which often boasts a field with many of New Zealand’s leading professionals, has not missed a beat since 2001, even beating covid-19 in 2020. The germination of the event came from a meeting with Jim Cleland of New Zealand Golf at the Taupo Workingmen’s Club about the Holden scramble and pro-am. The idea was floated to the club committee and, as is often the case, there was some hesitancy with more information requested. An enthusiastic club member was asked to help and so the process began. The benefits of a close knit supportive community were soon revealed. First stop was the popular Lobster Inn and Motel which accepted the sponsorship opportunity. So the Lobster Inn Pro-Am was born and, within two days, 27 sponsors had been signed on, such was the buy in. In the early days there was no shortage of teams. However there were not enough professionals, so a few low handicap members filled the gaps as “pros”. The first event was a great success with the start of the club’s famous “taste of Kaikoura meal’’. The mouth waters as it included crayfish, fish, paua, mussels and salad. I still remember fondly playing in the event some years ago. Eventually the meal, which was first held at the Memorial Hall and then, as numbers grew, at the Kaikoura harness racecourse, was stopped because of the huge numbers.

Now a platter is served to each team after golf concludes on the Saturday. Also, the platter includes the addition of venison pies thanks to the so-called “hunter gatherers” who have contributed to the platters over the years. The club has a rich 110-year history beginning with its birth on April 9, 1911, at a meeting in the Wallace home in Beach Road. The late George Wallace, a surgeon dentist, became president, then later on secretary. The reverend A N Freyberg, the vicar of St Peters from 1908 to 1912, was the driving force in the formation of the club. At the time the population of Kaikoura was just 350. Today it is around 2400. The club opened with 39 members from a wide cross section of the town. Today the membership is a healthy 220. The initial nine-hole course of 2455 metres was on South Bay Domain, then the headquarters of the Kaikoura Racing Club. The famous Kaikoura Trotting Club was formed in 1914. The golf course, which was laid out around the domain, criss-crossed the highway and had one unusual feature. The eighth hole was blind with the tee near the totalisator building. The blind green was up over the highway (imagine that today) into a depression. For obvious reasons it was called Waterloo. Visitors loathed it and not many members mastered it. The ninth tee was aptly named Ocean View because it was on a knoll above the green. The temptation to assist the odd ball to score a hole in one proved too much for some pranksters. Strange tales still linger in the folklore of the club. Apart from those holes the course lacked character. Therefore in 1935 a new nine-hole course, along with a completed clubhouse, was opened on the present site near the Kowhai River.

In June 1957 membership was closed until it dropped below 150 because it was too busy. This was gradually alleviated with the addition of three more holes in each of the years 1958, 1960 and 1963 which produced a 5166-metre 18 holes. Increasing membership in 1966 forced the club to build a new clubhouse at its current location to accommodate the extra numbers. This was opened on April 13, 1968. The course layout has undergone changes, notably in 1977, with other minor tweaks in later years, all with the object of improving this picturesque links course. As can be imagined there are many tales to tell by past presidents, life members and patrons. A highlight for Ken Pitman was the building of the clubhouse in 1968 as each year there was a draw and two lucky members were repaid their debentures. Some winners, however, donated back their wins to help with the club’s finances. Mary Gordon said: “The old clubhouse was a lot of fun. We did lots of catering ourselves with plenty of cooking outside. “In big tournaments soup was carted around in the back of a vehicle to various spots on the course. The men did the catering for the annual ladies’ tournament which produced much hilarity.” Peter Harvey, a member since 1965 and a winner of 23 club championships, is still on a single figure handicap even though now in his 70s. Along with Carol Stove, a winner of 15 ladies silver championships, these are great achievements. One rather infamous tale is of the “Grouper Blood mob’’ which apparently loved to have fun. Incidentally Grouper Blood was Dick Lee’s home made gin mixed with campari. One story tells of Austin Smith flaking out on the third hole. Lee and Dick Telfer thought he had died, so they dragged him over to a

shady tree and left him there intending to pick him up later. Fortunately he came around and was later carried back to the clubhouse in a vehicle. Many great characters and loyal members from the past like these have been honoured with life memberships. Gordy Scott (Scott’s Drapery) and John Ingram (Dalgety’s Store) always had a golf lesson on a Monday with brooms at the ready outside their shops so they could sweep their store frontages at the same time. I wonder if their brooms were their club of choice for the lessons. The longest drive in history was probably recorded by Buster Miller when playing the old 18th back towards the old clubhouse with Bryan Seddon. Miller’s ball went out of bounds and landed in a horse float on the way to the Nelson races. The driver, who he knew, came back through Kaikoura, presented Buster with his ball, declaring he had hit the club’s longest drive. Jimmy Jacobs liked getting in the kitchen where he would make wonderful paua patties with his secret recipe of “a little bit of this and that”. Another member, with a short fuse, attached a hub cap of all things, to the bottom of his worn out bag. After a bad shot he fired his five iron into the bag and it came flying back out and hit his nose. Ouch. This easy walking course offers a choice of two tees. Yellow plays 5258 metres and blue 5793 metres. The course is no pushover with doglegs and three 470-plus metre par fives. The green fees are a snitch at $25 affiliated and $35 non affiliated. The dates for the 21st Anniversary 2021 Hunting and Fishing and Friends Pro-Am are October 9 and 10. In next month’s issue of this publication we will look back over the 20 years to date and preview the 21st edition which is sure to again attract many of New Zealand’s best players.

The Kaikoura platter of crayfish, fish, paua patties and venison pies.

September 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

READY FOR GOLF AUSSIE OR NZ?

NAPIER GOLF GETAWAY

PORT STEPHENS & HUNTER VALLEY APR/MAY 2022

RAIL TRAIL & QUEENSTOWN GOLF ESCAPE

The Travel bubble is Open! We have three tours planned to run in Tasmania, Adelaide and Port Stephens & the Hunter Valley for you to look forward to in early 2022. Should you prefer to explore New Zealand, our Golf Getaways visit some regional destinations as well as some favourites this Spring. Either way, our fully hosted packages ensure you have a hassle-free and relaxed time when travelling with us.

OCT 2021

NOV 2021

TASMANIA GOLF TOUR

TARANAKI GOLF GETAWAY

FEB/MAR 2022

NOV 2021

FREEPHONE NZ

0800 377 479 FREEPHONE AUS

1800 377 479

NELSON GOLF GETAWAY

OR VISIT GOLFENCOUNTERS.CO.NZ

NOV 2021

ADELAIDE GOLF HOLIDAY MAR/APR 2022

BAY OF ISLANDS GOLF GETAWAY NOV/DEC 2021

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

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

September 2021

Focus on women’s golf continues

NEWS

Golf New Zealand driving golf boom By Neville Idour

olf New Zealand roadshows have been to various parts of the country in recent months conducting forums which focussed on good governance and financial planning for our 400plus clubs. The roadshow rolled into Dunedin last month and the venue was the St Clair club. The two principal presenters were Stephen Gee, golf workforce development manager, and Michael Rondel of tax and accounting practice, BDO Christchurch. There was an excellent attendance of delegates from throughout Otago and all were pleased to hear of the many positives that have resulted since covid first darkened our doorstep 18 months ago. Foremost, membership numbers and casual player rounds continue to track upwards at most clubs. Nationally membership numbers are up 12 percent to 118,000. Men make up 73 percent and women 27 percent. So the obvious target there is to increase the women’s percentage. Total rounds played exploded by 27 percent from May 2020 to May 2021. All the talk in recent years of some city councils wanting to close public council owned courses and convert the spaces into housing or other recreational areas needs to be kicked into touch. Full stop. In fact, this is the first time in 50 years that any club in Auckland or Wellington has closed its membership and even now have a joining fee. At Remuera in Auckland the course is so busy they close the course for play on Friday afternoons so the greenkeepers can do necessary work without interruption, the meeting heard. Other facts and trends that have emerged are that a large percentage of the new members are in the 25 to 45-year-old bracket and the vast majority do not want to play Saturday club days and competitions. Clearly golf is garnering an increased member group that just want to enjoy relaxing social golf. Many of them also want to play with carts. Clubs need to embrace these trends or they will miss out on the benefits. The misconception, the meeting was told, that golf is mainly for oldies is simply old hat. The success of those clubs which have embraced the she loves golf initiative was discussed at the meeting. Many reported good numbers enjoying regular social non competitive golf at these sessions that run for several weeks during the better weather. Shelley Duncan of the Otago Club said they can have as

many as 80 women enjoying a few holes late afternoon, with members along to help out and accompany their groups. After golf they socialise in the clubhouse with drinks and nibbles. A great time is had by all. Many new members are gained from these occasions. Governance was very much under the microscope with board failures and why. Unfortunately many are too busy with the small stuff instead of the more important big issues. Stephen Gee spelt out the two roles a board has. One is performance and creating value with long term planning. Second is conformance, being accountable and not afraid to look in the mirror. There was also encouragement for clubs to know who they were, their why, what, how. One club actually utilised it’s available space to allow a toy library to operate at the club two days a week. What a great way to work with and involve the local community. Utilising lounges and other spaces can be an excellent generator of extra income. The bottom line for board members and paid staff is they must work on the business not in the business. Change is inevitable but growth is optional, the meeting was told. Without good governance the ramifications are many and can snowball. Efficiency will be lacking, it will be difficult to attract funders, transparency and democracy may be absent as well as a plan succession and accountability. Add to that lack of trust and a dubious reputation and the picture is bleak. Michael Rondel focussed on the financial necessities. He made it clear that clubs need to be aware of the economic clock which never stops ticking. Budgeting and planning must be ongoing with forecasting at least quarterly. Clubs should embrace technology and look for ways to improve their systems. When seeking funding clubs need to present with expertise to funders and potential sponsors. They need to know what the club stands for, what is its brand and what value a sponsor will receive. Before any approach is made the club needs to understand the potential sponsors business and needs. Finally the obvious rule for success in all of these thoughts is “stay close to your members and sponsors at all times, keeping them informed and feeling appreciated.” The forum was certainly well received and appreciated and clubs and areas around the country that have not received a visit yet are encouraged to request one.

reater investment and support from golf bodies, sponsors, the media and fans is required if women’s golf is to grow and prosper, say senior officials of The R&A, one of the two world golf governing bodies. Martin Slumbers, chief executive of The R&A, said prior to last month’s $US5.8 million Women’s Open in Scotland: “We are absolutely committed to elevating the AIG Women’s Open and enhancing its status as one of golf’s premier championships. “With our partners at AIG, we are taking action to make change happen and sending out a strong signal that more needs to be done by everyone involved to grow women’s golf. “It needs greater investment and support from golf bodies, sponsors, the media and fans to help us grow the game’s commercial success and generate the income and revenues necessary to make prize fund growth viable and sustainable. “We have set a new benchmark for prize money in women’s major championship golf this week and, thanks to AIG, will build on it still further next year. We hope this will inspire other events to follow our lead and help us to take a collective leap forward for the women’s game.” Next year’s Women’s Open will be worth $US6.8 million. Phil Anderton, The R&A’s chief development officer, acknowledged that much work is still to be done to attract more girls and women into the game.

September 2021

“Golf historically has under-performed when it comes to women and girls, for a whole bunch of reasons. I think the sport and The R&A has made good progress but there is a hell of a lot more to do,” Anderton was quoted as saying by the Guardian newspaper. He added: “We want more people playing more frequently, but we want the participants to reflect society. “I think golf in general fell previously into the trap of talking to itself. Golf talked to golf. If you didn’t play it, you didn’t know anything about it. “I think it also fell into the trap of just putting on programmes; come here and learn about golf. If you have a perception barrier and people don’t think it is a sport or a brand for them, you can put on every course and build every structure you want but it will be incredibly difficult. Women and girls have to see this as a sport for them, promoted to them. “Martin (Slumbers) was very clear that The R&A had in the early part of his tenure focused on building up the commercial income. He and the team have done a brilliant job there. Why did we need to do that? Because we need the money to invest back into developing the sport. “Martin made it very clear to me that to meet the long-term purpose of the organisation, to see the sport flourish in 50 years’ time, there is no point making money, having great governance and great championships if nobody is playing golf.”

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

Gary Player’s wife dies at age 84 V

ivienne Player, wife of nine-time major championship winner Gary Player, died last month after a battle with pancreatic cancer. In an emotional statement, Player said: “The unthinkable has happened. My wife of 64 years, my childhood sweetheart, my rock, and my soulmate, Vivienne has lost her battle with pancreatic cancer.

“I cannot describe the deep sense of sadness I feel at having lost the one person who has always meant the world to me. “Vivienne taught me the value of love, faith and trust. She taught our children those same values, and they were blessed to have a mother who lived those values every single day. “When we first met, I had no

doubt it was love at first sight and it turned out to be a love story of a lifetime. I believe it will also be so when we are finally together again. Until then, I will miss my Viv dearly.” Vivienne was diagnosed with cancer in June of last year. She died on August 18 at the age of 84. Player, 85, proposed to Vivienne Verwey (sister of profes-

sional golfer Bobby Verwey) when he was 15 years old. They married in 1957 in their native South Africa and they had six children — Jennifer, Marc, Wayne, Michele, Theresa, and Amanda. Player’s nine major wins comprised of three in The Open, three in the Masters, two in the PGA Championship and one in the US Open.

NEWS

Gary and Vivienne founded the Player Foundation and the Gary Player Invitational series tournaments, which has raised tens of millions of dollars to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged children. Vivienne played golf and once recorded two holes-in-one in one round in Johannesburg.

Golf equipment sales continue to surge A

golf data company has unveiled the 2021 mid-year United States sales report of golf equipment, golf apparel, and rounds played over the first six months of 2021. Due to the impacts of the covid-19 pandemic on normal economic activity, making comparisons to 2020 doesn’t tell the whole story, so the analysis was also compared to the performance of the first six months of 2021 with the same period in 2019, which was the last ‘normal’ year prior to the worldwide impacts of covid-19. Highlighting the report, Golf Datatech analysis indicates rounds played through June 2021 were up nearly 23 percent versus 2020 and high single digits versus 2019. During the same timeframe, golf equipment sales (balls, clubs, shoes, bags, gloves, distance devices) were up 78 percent compared to 2020 and 41 percent versus 2019, while golf apparel is rebounding after a challenging 2020, up 68 percent versus 2020 and 10 percent versus 2019, reversing the negative trend it followed during the depths covid-19. “The question everyone was asking

coming into 2021 was whether golf could continue to sustain its upward trajectory as the US economy heated up and golfers had access to alternative activities,” said John Krzynowek, a partner at Golf Datatech. “However, through the first six months of 2021 the results are very encouraging, as all segments of the golf economy continue to prosper, even in the face of supply issues, particularly for products made abroad. “While manufacturers of golf balls, clubs, shoes, bags, have all struggled to meet demand and replenish drained product pipelines, much of the industry still remains in a hand-to-mouth struggle to ship product in a timely manner. “Golf equipment sales had never reached $US400 million in any single month prior to April of 2021, when retail sell-through totalled over $US425 million, and now in June we’ve had the third consecutive month with sales above $US400 million, so significant momentum continues in the equipment sector.” In regard to apparel, covid-19 was particularly hard on golf clothing manufacturers in 2020, as many “green grass’’

golf shops closed for extended periods of time, and once opened to the public they urged golfers not to linger, while dressing rooms were frequently closed, return policies were tightened (or not allowed at all), and people were encouraged not to touch/feel the merchandise. Additionally, many large resorts lost significant traffic from European and Asian visitors, and these customers would typically spend significantly on apparel. As a result, coming off that difficult period, the bounce back in golf apparel sales through the first six months of the year has been particularly welcome news to battered apparel brands. After being mired in a negative position, the golf apparel category finally turned the corner during the first half of 2021, and the $US552 million first half is the largest since Golf Datatech started tracking golf apparel sales, beating the previous high of $US536 million from 2015. Krzynowek added: “Combining equipment and apparel sales through the on and off-course channels, total consumer demand in dollars for golf products were 66 percent higher than last year for the

first six months of 2021 and compared to 2019 sales are up 23 percent. At some point consumer demand for new products will have to slow down. However, thus far it has held up very well to the pressures of the pandemic.” In 1998, Golf Datatech undertook the task of creating the golf industry’s first monthly projections of rounds played by state and region around the country. The company’s objective from day one was to provide accurate estimates of the health of golf by tracking rounds, which are the engine that drives almost every other aspect of the business. According to data compiled directly from golf course owners and operators, rounds of golf played through the first six months of 2021, at public, private and resort courses nationwide, were up 23 percent, and compared to 2019 they remain up in the high single digits. However, June 2021 data showed a very small improvement (+0.4%) in rounds versus the same month last year, suggesting the tsunami in rounds might finally be slowing, and comparisons to 2020 will become increasingly hard to beat.

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.

kaweraugolfclub@gmail.com Cobham Dr, Kawerau 3127, New Zealand  07 323 7095

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

September 2021

New golfers keen on the comforts, according to survey

he covid-19 pandemic not only caused a resurgence in the game of golf but it introduced a new kind of golfer to the game – one with different needs and priorities. New data from a United States survey, which queried 24,774 current, lapsed and new golfers, revealed that nearly half of new players are looking more for comfortable, social environments rather than keeping and improving their scores. “There’s no doubt that the pandem-

ic reshaped the game of golf in many ways,” said Steve Skinner, chief executive of KemperSports, a Chicago-based golf course management company and source of the survey. “We saw increased play and participation from people of all ages and walks of life, including many beginners and lapsed golfers who returned to the game. “This survey data is an important tool to help us keep customers engaged and carry this momentum into the future. It

allows us to tap into the changing needs and demands of the new player to deliver experiences that better serve our customers, members and guests.” Key findings from the survey include: * The new golfer is a social golfer – younger and female, generation Z (born 1997-2012) and younger millennials (born 1981-96) are really getting into the game, with almost 27 percent of new golfers representing the 18-34 age group. In addition, women entered the game in a big way, representing almost 33 percent of new golfers surveyed, compared to the industry average of 24 percent. * Once they played, they couldn’t stay away. Almost 60 percent of respondents played more than 25 rounds last year, including one-third of new golfers. And, about 30 peercent of all respondents played between eight and 24 rounds. This means that more than half of surveyed golfers played more rounds than the industry average. * 2021 intent to play is even higher than 2020. The majority of new golfers (58 percent) came to the game because of the pandemic. But they plan to play even more golf in 2021 and intend to play just as much golf in the future as current golfers play, if they feel comfortable and confident. For

the new golfer, 30 percent of those surveyed are more likely to come back if they can get instruction and social events. * Fun will keep new players coming back for more. The fun factor is important to new golfers, with more than 40 percent saying fun events or activities combined with golf would motivate them to play more rounds in 2021. * And lastly, scores aren’t everything. Only about 12 percent of new golfers said no improvement/lower scores would be a barrier to playing more in 2021. Skinner added: “These findings point to an optimistic outlook for the game of golf. “Now it’s on us, golf course operators, to ensure that we are delivering a welcoming, inclusive experience that golfers are so clearly craving. Even when the pandemic subsides, golf courses, clubs and resorts can still be a universal gathering space for people to make connections and have fun.” Survey methodology: This survey was conducted online by KemperSports from March 2-14, returning responses from 24,774 current, lapsed and new golfers based in the United States across its customer database.

Bunkers with cement backfills

he Women’s Scottish Open at Dumbarnie Links last month was the first tier one professional event in Europe to be played at a venue with synthetic-edged bunkers. “Dumbarnie features some really impressive, bold revetted bunker walls, some of which are in the region eight to nine feet high,” said Richard Allen, chief executive of EcoBunker Ltd. “Back in 2007, my original aim was to invent a resilient and affordable system for low edge bunkers, but soon I was designing solutions for higher and higher links style bunkers.

“The change in design parameters prompted me to invent a new construction method using a cement modified backfill for increased stiffness and stability. It was the perfect solution for Dumbarnie and the EcoBunker walls built by our team in 2018 are maturing naturally and beautifully.” The course’s fairway bunkers are built in a naturalistic style, with a ragged fescue edge, but the majority of bunkers are hard against greens, or surrounded by short grass, and these are fully revetted using EcoBunkerʼs synthetic solution.

Dumbarnie was one of EcoBunker’s first and largest contracting jobs. Construction manager Llewelyn Matthews – like architect Clark a former Walker Cup player – led a five-strong construction crew to build the bunkers, over an 18-week period. Allen, the inventor both of synthetic revetting and of the later Ecobunker advanced method, said: “All our team look back with immense pride on the Dumbarnie job. It was truly the job on which Llew Matthews came of age as one of the world’s best bunker builders.’’

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

September 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

WIN WITH

Register today at www.golferpacific.co.nz/pingecco A promotion for Golfer Pacific NZ readers valued at $2,680 Win a PING MEN’S G425 DRIVER and LADIES GLE 2 DRIVER from Ping, plus win a pair of men’s and ladies ECCO BIOM H4 MODEL GOLF SHOES

ECCO MEN'S GOLF BIOM

G425 MEN’S MAX DRIVER

ECCO BIOM H4 WOMEN’S GOLF SHOE

LADIES G LE2 DRIVER

Terms and conditions: there are four draws - EccoS emen’s and ladies golf shoes, and Ping men’s and ladies drivers. ptember 2021 One entry to enter! A 1-4 chance to win! Promotion closes Wednesday 20th of October 2021. All winners notified.

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

World has 64 million golfers, according to research agency GOLF NEWS

he health benefits of golf provide a new rationale to attract players to the sport and grow the golf industry, says the head of major research agency. John Bushell, managing director at Sports Marketing Surveys (SMS), delivered a message laced with optimism for the sport at a recent golf industry function. “For all those of us who love golf and depend on it as an industry, it is wonderful to be able to report on lots of good news,’’ Bushell said. “Despite the pandemic, the sport has had success attracting new players with the promise of fresh air, exercise, and social and competitive opportunities. “Our work for (world golf governing body) The R&A on the social and health benefits of the sport have clinical evidence of benefits from living longer, to better balance, and golfers feeling healthier than non-golfers.

“This health angle gives us a new rationale to attract players to the sport and grow the golf industry.” Bushell said Sports Marketing Surveys’ recent work measuring participation included the first international study covering Africa, Asia-Pacific, Canada and Latin America, as well as R&A affiliates outside of Europe. “We estimate with these regions and also Europe, USA, Mexico that there are now 64 million golfers globally. “On both sides of the Atlantic and around the world, there is more work to do, not least to keep these players in the sport. But demand for golf – on and off-course – and increasing diversity in the game is great news.” In regard to demand for golf, Bushell cited rounds played figures for Great Britain in 2020 which, he said, “showed an incredible appetite for playing golf

after the first lockdown ended.’’ He added: “The figures for the third quarter 2020 were a record. Even in the fourth quarter, despite the November lockdown, rounds played were up by 41 percent. The end result was that 2020 concluded with an annual increase of 12 percent in rounds played across the country despite losing almost three months. “That’s good news however you look at it. But one thing we wanted to find out was whether this was being driven by existing golfers playing more often or by new and returning players. “So, it was great to be able to announce, together with The R&A, that our latest wave of annual participation research identified 2.3 million more golfers in Great Britain and Ireland playing on full length golf courses.”

New golfers need to be embraced, says golf executive A ction rather than words is required to bring about significant, positive changes in golf and to make the game more diversified and inclusive, a British golf executive says. Robert Maxfield, chief executive of The Professional Golfers’ Association of Great Britain and Ireland (PGA of GB&I), said the time for change in attitudes is now. “I think people are saying the right things,’’ Maxfield said.

“People are saying we need to be more diverse and we need to encourage more women, more juniors, more families. “We’ve got to put it into practice – and I don’t see enough of that. “I see brilliant examples of where it is put into practice, I just don’t think there’s enough.” Maxfield is encouraged by the increase in golf participation sparked by the covid-19 pandemic as individuals and families seek to pursue safe outdoor activities.

“We’ve seen more people have come to golf. I know families have come in. At my own golf club, we’ve seen a swell in our junior section. We’ve seen more girls come in, we’ve seen more women come in. “We now have this opportunity to embrace these individuals and look after them in a way that they’ve never been looked after before and keep them in our game. “But we have to change and be different. We have to be welcoming to them.

The big worry for me is that we don’t adapt and change the way we need to. We have to be more inclusive as a game.” Maxfield cited a recent incident involving his son as an example of how golf should alter its perceptions. “My son would not play golf for one reason – because the golf club made him tuck his shirt in. They’re actually nice shirts, too! How ridiculous is that? They’ve now relaxed it.”

SUMMER IN THE PARK!

18 hole Summer Membership $630 9 hole Summer Membership $350 Midweek Summer Membership $480

Contact the office on 563 8558 ext 5 or office@manorparkgolf.co.nz to redeem

September 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

INDUSTRY NEWS

Acushnet Holdings has a significant financial increase A

cushnet Holdings, owners of the Titleist, FootJoy and KJUS brands, has reported its financial results for the second quarter and for the first six months of the year, ending June 30. Among the headline figures, year-to-date net sales of US$1,205 million for the last six months were up 70% year on year, up 64% on the same period for 2020 and up 34% compared to 2019. Net sales in the United States increased by 117% in the second quarter driven by an increase of US$65 million in Titleist ball sales, an increase of US$43 million in FootJoy golf wear, and an increase of US$41 million in Titleist clubs. “Demand across all Acushnet product categories remains robust and contributed to another terrific quarter for the company,” said David Maher, Acushnet Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer. He added: “Our strong performance was led by sales across

our product portfolio, including new Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls, TSi drivers, and our FootJoy and KJUS brands. “We look forward to building on our momentum in the second half with a wide range of product introductions led by new Titleist T Series irons and new FJ footwear and HydroKnit outerwear. “As we move into the second half of 2021 and see escalating positive Covid-19 cases in many regions, our highest priority remains the health and safety of our associates. While we expect golfer engagement to remain healthy, we do expect to face various levels of disruption within our supply chain. “My Acushnet team-mates are skilled at adapting and I have the utmost confidence in their ability to navigate these uncertainties with excellence as we seek to deliver the highest quality products and services to our trade partners and dedicated golfers around the world.”

Callaway Golf has reported record revenue increases across its equipment and apparel brands C arlsbad, California, United States: Callaway Golf has reported record revenue increases across its equipment and apparel brands over the last six months as the golf boom continues to resonate across the industry. The company’s financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, and for the first six months of 2021, saw net revenues driven by higher-than-expected growth across both its equipment and apparel segments. In addition, Topgolf, which merged with Callaway in March 2021, also contributed to revenue growth, with US$325 million in sales for the period between April and the end of June. Q2 2021 consolidated net revenue increased US$617 million (+208%) to US$914 million. Golf equipment and soft goods revenue increased 98% to US$588 million. Revenues from sales of golf equipment in Q2 increased by 37% to US$138 million compared to the pre-pandemic levels in

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

the second quarter of 2019, driven by the continued surge in golf demand and participation, the launch of the new EPIC line of woods and APEX line of irons and the continued success of its Chrome Soft line of golf balls. Income from apparel sales rose by 21% compared to 2019 figures, with clothing brand TravisMathew continuing to experience increased demand from golfers. Callaway suffered a US$168 million loss for Q2 in 2020 due to golf course and retail closures caused by the pandemic. Chip Brewer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Callaway, said: “I am very pleased with our performance in the second quarter of 2021 with record revenue in our golf equipment and apparel businesses, as well as Topgolf results that continue to exceed our expectations. “These results reflect the strong momentum and exceptional operating performance across all of our business segments and underscore the strong

consumer demand for our products and services. “We are encouraged to see that the interest in the sport of golf remains at alltime highs among both experienced golfers and new entrants to the sport. “As we look ahead to the second half of 2021 and beyond, we are confident that our unique portfolio of businesses is well positioned for long-term growth. While in the short-term we will experience some lingering supply constraints and other challenges caused by the pandemic, we believe that these challenges will be manageable given current demand levels and actions we are taking to mitigate the impact. “We expect to deliver excellent financial results for the full year. All in all, we are excited about the long-term trends in our golf and outdoor apparel businesses, as well as the growth opportunities for Topgolf, all of which will continue to drive shareholder value.” Callaway has forecast full year sales

September 2021

Chip Brewer

in 2021 of US$3.02 billion to US$3.05 billion. Shares in the company rose 3% to US$34.75 on the New York Stock Exchange following the announcement of the financial results on August 9.

PGAPARS

pga.org.nz

Play the golf of your dreams

as competition. During the golf swing every part of your body moves at some point. This is a ver the years, I have played golf very complex movement pattern and no with a lot of people and have been two golf swings are the same. lucky enough to see some of the When we add in outside agencies that world’s best golfers play the game. affect the ball such as wind, humidity, There seems to be one key aspect difgrass, lie, slopes and the like, they canferentiating the successful players from not be avoided. But the one thing we can the rest. This is the way they prepare control is our mental approach to each themselves to play a shot, either in pracshot. tice or in play. Most players have a physical routine When under pressure, people resort but leave the mental side to chance. You to what they are most used to doing. If must develop a routine which accounts this is a well-planned and practised prefor the physical and mental actions in the shot routine then you will be able to perform under pressure. If not, then it is preparation to playing the shot. Some of the best players I have spoken a lottery. to all share a similar approach to each Now is a good time to reflect on your pre-shot routine and start to develop shot and that can be summed up in two a routine that is designed to make all questions they ask themselves. The first question is where do I want shots seem as similar as possible, regardless of the circumstances. An exam- this ball to go? That is not where do I not ple would be a shot in practice as similar want this ball to go? The second question is what do I have as possible to a shot to win the US Open. Players often focus too much on the to do to have the best chance of making outcome or consequences of the shot that happen? To quote American sports psycholrather than simply thinking of what they are trying to do with the ball. It is crucial ogist Robert Rotella, who worked with that the routine is used in practice as well many top golf professionals: “It is By Dominic Sainsbury New Zealand PGA General Manager

more important to be decisive than to be correct when preparing to play a golf shot or putt.” The first question is normally very straight forward when, for example, playing a tee shot. I want this ball to go down the middle of the fairway about 280. Then the detail comes into the second question. I need to make a fully committed swing and take a deep breath to relax my muscles and focus my mind. I like to play a little draw so the ball will start at a target I pick just to the right of the middle of fairway and draw back to the middle. I factor in the wind, if there is any, and this process goes on until I am confident, calm and focused to play the shot. I go regularly to see my Professional Golfers’ Associaton (PGA) coach who helps me with my golf game and I hit more good shots now that I used to. A lot of this is down to way I approach each shot and help I have received with how I play the game. The way you approach each shot and the way you think is a choice you get to make. Rotella, to again quote him, tells the top players he works with: “The foun-

September 2021

PGA professional Matt Davis from Whangarei talking through some of the finer aspects of the pre-shot routine.

dation of consistency is a good pre-shot routine” and “a golfer must expect only two things from themself: to have fun, and to focus their mind properly on every shot.” Now is a good time to work on your pre-shot routine. So get in touch with your local PGA professional to discuss what the best approach is for you. If you don’t have a PGA professional follow the link to find one in your area — https:// www.pga.org.nz/find-a-pga-pro?ComeFromCat=875

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

GOLFCOMMENT

The most important shot in golf and two doubles snookered his prolific birdie haul. Behind the eight ball, he was never in contention despite gaining 27 shots overall. Ironically he finished 31st at eight under oar with Brooks Koepka who dropped 14 shots. The winner Tony Finau only gained 24 shots, but dropped just four which spoke volumes about his course management. Second placed Cameron Smith only dropped six shots while third placed Jon Rahm dropped five. Our own Danny Lee has until this season been one of the more prolific scorer of birdies. He is now consigned to the secondary Korn Ferry Tour until the Fedex Cup concludes, when his medical exemption will give him some status on the main tour to retain his card. Lee’s game will certainly need to improve. At the recent Boise Open on the Korn Ferry Tour he racked up an impressive 20 birdies and one eagle yet only beat a couple of players home tying for 69th on five under par. Too many dropped shots has been his problem this season. The winner (19 under par) gained 24 shots and the runner-up (18 under) gained 23 shots.

By Neville Idour

hat is the most important shot in golf? Okay, I hear you say the next shot. While that certainly has some truth, the point I want to make is how do we arrive at what the next shot is? — and that just might be the most important shot even though no ball is struck. If this piece stirs some debate it will have achieved its purpose. I think statistics can tell us a lot about a golfer and where they might want to focus how they approach each shot. So let us have a look at a variety of rounds and tournaments featuring many of the best players as well as New Zealand’s best. We shall start with a remarkable round at The Northern Trust in the United States last month. This involved, not surprisingly, Bryson DeChambeau who makes it clear he considers length off the tee a big advantage even if inaccurate. His first round included nine birdies, more than enough to leave him near the lead. Not so. He only had a par round. The other nine holes included just two pars while five bogeys

“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$760 for TWO *

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

Outs ide these dates please look at ou r webs ite

Moving to the Women’s Open in Scotland where the winner Anna Nordqvist (12 under) scored 18 birdies. Lydia Ko had 16 birdies yet finished 29th at two under par. In 12 of the statistical categories, Ko is in the top three of six of them. Outstanding. Many revolve around her scoring and putting. In average putts per round Ko has a more than eight shot advantage per tournament over Nordqvist, now a threetime major winner, who doesn’t feature in the top tier in any of the stats. Nordqvist, however, compensates to a degree with her accuracy tee to green. She matches world number one Nelly Korda with driving accuracy at 75 percent and reaches 75 percent of greens in regulation. She only ranks 106th with average drives at 253 yards. Ko’s average drives now reach 259 yards, 14 yards more than a year ago. However her achilles’ heel is driving accuracy (146th) at 62 percent. Considering that, her greens in regulation at 71 percent is good. Collin Morikawa’s win at The Open in Scotland was an example of controlled course management finishing 19 under par with only four dropped shots. Playing the Scottish Open a week prior “taught me how to putt and not leave it short” Morikawa later explained. “I also employed two grips. Conventional for long putts and my usual grip for others.” His clarity of mind and patience gave evidence of thorough preparation. As they say with the six Ps and I will leave one P out. “Poor preparation produces **** poor performance.” Ryan Fox scored 14 birdies but dropped 17 shots at The Open. After 61 holes he was three under par heading for an excellent result. However six over par in the final 11 holes undid that. Rory McIlroy had one of his most frustrating majors with 17 shots gained and 17 dropped. The legendary Ben Hogan said the tee shot was the most important shot in golf because it opens up play for the

next shot. Morikawa’s play at The Open was said to be a throwback to Hogan and the best ball strikers. His fairway misses invariably only found the first cut and his narrow dispersion of shot width set him apart from the field. No question the drive off the tee is important but it must come with a reasonable degree of accuracy and be a reliable go to shot when the situation demands it. Where a player has a weakness they need to have a strong point to compensate. No one can play well all the time such is the difficulty of golf. And of course the top two inches can sometimes take over with results like a car wreck. It often comes down to minimising the errors, aka dropped shots. So what can we make of all of this which was not written as a criticism of anyone. One thing that emerges as you follow Ryan Fox’s successful and at times exciting career is that if gained shots were only what counted he would be a top 50 player. There is a fine line to cross but Fox has the ability to do that. It will be an exciting ride if he does. When we look at the winners what clearly emerges is the ability to mix good scoring with minimal errors which requires good course management. Will I go for the green on this par five, will I go for the front of green pin on this par three with water in front or make sure I find the middle. Yes course management is a vital aspect for all golfers. Postscript: After filing this story I watched DeChambeau defy all logical rationale with a second round 60 in the BMW Championship in Maryland. He demolished the described “bear of a course” with eight birdies and two eagles and no bogeys. No matter he only hit seven of 14 fairways. Also he had made all 16 putts under 13 feet when he reached the 18th with a six footer for a historic 59. A gambler may have lost a bundle as the putt slid by. Mere mortals like this hack can only watch, enjoy and not think too deeply.

• 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

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.

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

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

September 2021

W H AT ’ S N E W

PING introduces Glide Forged Pro wedges with score-lowering versatility EXPANDED LOFTS AND GRINDS

Two grind options in multiple lofts expand the offerings to ensure a wedge choice to match a golfer’s playing conditions and angle of attack. In the “S” grind, moderate bounce and a rounded lead edge combine to produce an option that fits most golfers. It comes in seven loft/bounce configurations. The “T” Grind has a narrower sole with approximately 3º less bounce than the “S” to make it more versatile and precise around the green. It’s available in three lofts, including a 62º, which offers low bounce and high loft for the most greenside versatility and will be a popular choice on tour when matching course conditions. Golfers can also choose from eight custom grinds through PING Wrx, the company’s facility that custom builds the majority of its tour and college equipment.

59º EYE2 HIGH-TOE OPTION

ngineered for golfers in search of versatility and improved shot making inside the scoring zone, PING has introduced the Glide Forged Pro wedge series. The tour-inspired, high-spinning design is offered in two grind profiles and multiple loft options to fit players who rely on precision and control to shoot lower scores. The custom-fit, custom-built Glide Forged Pro wedges are now available for pre-order at authorized PING retailers around the world. “When you look at the Glide Forged Pro wedge, everything about it stands out,” said John K. Solheim, PING President. “It’s a great-looking club with amazing feel that performs beautifully. It has the versatility to attract and benefit a lot of different skill levels. Our engineers focused on every design attribute. It’s slightly smaller heel-to-toe with a rounded profile to allow players the ability to control the club and play any shot with precision. We’ve also applied a new face blast to improve friction for increased spin and trajectory control.”

TOUR-INSPIRED COMPACT SHAPE

In consultation with its Tour staff and brand ambassadors, PING’s engineers designed the Glide Forged Pro for golfers who focus on saving shots into and around the green. The smaller heel-to-toe head, which is forged from 8620 carbon steel, creates a captured look at address, giving players the confidence to manipulate the head to help execute any shot they are facing.

“We know golfers are very particular about the look of their wedges. That first impression when they look down at it is vitally important to whether it makes it into their bag,” said Solheim. “The feedback from our players and coaches really helped guide the design of the Glide Forged Pro. It sets up perfectly behind the ball, giving you the confidence to pull off most any shot. It has the all-around performance that will lead to lower scores for a lot of different types of players.”

FRICTION FACE WITH EMERY BLAST

The PING EYE2 wedge face profile inspired the “S” grind 59º option, which is distinguished by the high-toe design made popular by Karsten Solheim’s iconic sand wedge developed in the early 1980s. It features a blended hosel and a more traditional sole design than the original with approximately 1.5º less bounce than the other “S” grind lofts. “I may be a little biased since my swimming pool as a kid was shaped like a PING EYE2 wedge, but I love the high-toe option in this line,” said Solheim. “It gives me the confidence and versatility to play high and low shots with a lot of spin without being intimidated. It’s especially good out of the bunker.”

CUSTOMIZATION VIA PING.COM

Glide Forged Pro wedges are available to customize in a variety of ways. Beginning September 1, golfers can choose from six stock graphic designs (Mr. PING, USA Flag, Bite, Dart, Topographic and Irish Clover). Further personalization includes custom-stamping letters on the toe, center, or scattered and paint-fill (13 colors). Consumers can custom design their wedge and purchase direct at ping. com using the company’s product designer application.

GLIDE FORGED PRO SPECIFICATIONS

Material/Manufacturing Process: Forged 8620 carbon steel head; precision-milled face and grooves; Emery face blast; hydropearl 2.0 chrome finish “S” grind loft/bounce options: 50º/10º, 52º/10º, 54º/10º, 56º/10º, 58º/10º, 59º/8º (EYE2), 60º/10º “T” grind loft/bounce options: 58º/6º, 60º/6º, 62º/6º STOCK SHAFTS: PING Z-Z115; PING AWT 2.0 (R, S, X), UST Recoil 760 ES (A), 780 (R, S), PING Alta CB Slate (SR, R, S) OPTIONAL STOCK SHAFTS: Dynamic Gold (S300, X100), Dynamic Gold 105 (R300, S300), Dynamic Gold 120 (S300, X100), KBS Tour (R, S, X), NS Pro Modus 105 (R, S, X), Elevate 95 (R, S), Project X LS (6.0, 6.5) STOCK GRIP: Golf Pride Arccos Lite Tour Velvet 360 Get Custom Fitted today. For your nearest PING stockist, contact Sportsnetwork Ltd on 0508 776 786.

In combination with the precision-milled face and grooves, the new Emery face blast adds more texture to the hitting surface, creating higher friction and more interaction between the club and ball for more spin and lower launch. The 50º and 52º lofts feature wheel-cut grooves with a 20º sidewall to optimize performance on full shots. The 54º to 62º options are milled with a 28º sidewall and tighter radius for more spin and precision on finesse shots around the green and from the sand. The hydropearl 2.0 chrome finish adds to the higher spin and lower launch, especially from wet and rough conditions. “As great as these clubs look, it comes down to performance off the face,” said Solheim. “The new Emery blast makes a huge difference. The added spin and lower launch overall give shot makers the control they need to play at the pin on full shots or take on the tough shots around the green.”

September 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

G425

MAX FORGIVENESS. Get Custom Fitted today.

Get Custom fit today. September 2021 WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ For your nearest PING stockist contact Sports Network Ltd. Ph: 0508 776 786

W H AT ’ S N E W

PING elevates forged iron design with introduction of i59 blade E

mploying a patent-pending technology known as AlumiCore™, PING has introduced the i59 iron, a forged blade that delivers the look, feel and trajectory control preferred by better players with forgiveness unprecedented in blade-style designs. The custom-built i59 irons are now available for custom fittings at authorized PING retailers around the world. “There’s been a lot of anticipation for the i59 iron since we took them out on tour a few months ago, so we’re very excited to bring them to golfers around the world,” said John K. Solheim, PING President. “It’s a true forged blade on the outside, but inside it’s like nothing ever engineered in golf equipment. Our team took on the challenge of disrupting an iron category that traditionally has lacked a lot of performance innovation and they developed an iron unlike any other. The combination of the look, feel and forgiveness ‘when you need it’ sets it apart from anything else in the industry. Once golfers hit it, they’ll be pleasantly surprised by its versatility. The i59 will clearly appeal to better golfers but the combination of forgiveness and clean appearance will attract golfers of all skill levels.” “It’s been very well received on tour and was in the bag of Viktor Hovland when he became the first Norwegian to win on the European Tour earlier this summer. Johannes Veerman just won with a full set of the i59s on Sunday at the Czech Masters. The players really like the distance control and the ability to consistently flight the ball to

the precise yardages required to succeed at the professional levels.”

ALUMICORE TECHNOLOGY INCREASES MOI

An aerospace-grade aluminum insert allows approximately 30 grams of material from the center of the club to be redistributed to the perimeter, some in the form of toe and shaft tip weights, elevating the MOI to match that of the larger PING i210 iron. Each iron in the set requires a different size of aluminum core, adding to the precision and complexity of the manufacturing process to ensure quality and performance in every iron. The result is a forgiving, forged iron with a crisp, solid feel at impact that delivers lower launch and trajectory control with the precision expected from a blade design. “We know this type of player might not put forgiveness at the top of their list when considering their iron choice, so we engineered it in a way that increased the MOI in a clean and impactful way,” said Solheim. “At address, it’s perfectly sized and shaped with a thin top line and the right amount of offset. It has a narrow sole to move smoothly through the turf and ensure a pleasing impact experience. Inside, the AlumiCore technology allows us to increase the MOI by moving the weight to the perimeter using toe and shaft tip weights. Our player testing shows tighter dispersion throughout the set and very high marks for feel.”

FRICTION FACE WITH

MICROMAX™ MILLED GROOVES

The precision-machined face has new MicroMax grooves for tighter spacing and a geometry that results in an average of four extra grooves on each club to reduce fliers in the short irons and preserve spin in the long irons for greater control and consistency. “We love the challenge of improving groove performance,” Solheim said. “When golfers address the i59 iron, they’ll notice more grooves. We were able to accomplish this through our continuous research and experiments with different configurations to deliver the spin performance required for consistency and predictability from all conditions.”

100% INSPECTED MANUFACTURING STEPS

During the development of the iron, PING’s innovation and engineering teams spent significant time perfecting the manufacturing process which includes 100% inspection of numerous steps, including sole shaping, head polishing, face machining and head forging. Joining the 1025 carbon steel forged body, aluminum insert and laser-cut 17-4 stainless steel face employs a forging process known as swaging, which applies pressure to the three parts, creating a unibody-style part that is then plasma-welded to seal

September 2021

the seams. “The i59 project pulled in our expertise from multiple disciplines within our engineering and innovation groups,” said Solheim. “Once we had the idea to join the three parts together, we were challenged with scaling the complicated process within the manufacturing process. In collaboration with our suppliers, we developed highly precise procedures that make the i59 the most technologically advanced iron we’ve ever manufactured.”

I59 SPECIFICATIONS

Multi-material construction: Forged 1025 carbon steel body, 17-4 stainless steel laser-cut face, aluminum insert, tungsten toe/shaft tip weights; hydropearl 2.0 finish Available 3-9, PW in 10 color codes (lie angle). Black color code is standard. STOCK SHAFTS: Project X LS (6.0, 6.5) & UST Recoil 760 ES (A), 780 (R, S) OPTIONAL STOCK SHAFTS: PING AWT 2.0 (R, S, X), Dynamic Gold (S300, X100), Dynamic Gold 105 (R300, S300), Dynamic Gold 120 (S300, X100), KBS Tour (R, S, X), NS Pro Modus 105 (R, S, X), Elevate 95 (R, S), PING Alta CB Slate (SR, R, S) STOCK GRIP: Arccos Golf Pride New Decade MCC White Get Custom Fitted today. For your nearest PING stockist, contact Sportsnetwork Ltd on 0508 776 786.

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

W H AT ’ S N E W

EXPAND YOUR DRIVE DISTANCE Introducing a proven way to add distance and improve all around drive performance. RYPSTICK is the only all-in-one, mobile speed training system. There are four different shafts for the Rypstick covering the 7-year-old golfer to the golf pro.

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

www.golfspeed.co.nz September 2021

W H AT ’ S N E W

ECCO GOLF announces re-signing of two-time major winner Lydia Ko P

ioneering footwear brand, ECCO® GOLF, has announced the re-signing of LPGA star, Lydia Ko, on a three-year deal. The New Zealander, who recently won Olympic bronze in Tokyo, has represented ECCO since 2017 and is one of the most popular players in women’s golf. She has been back close to her scintillating best in 2021, setting a new tournament scoring record en route to winning the LPGA Tour’s LOTTE Championship in April. Ko, 24, also finished in second place at the ANA Inspiration, one of eight top-10 finishes so far this season, as she continues to show the form that previously took her to world number one and saw her win both the 2016 ANA Inspiration and 2015 Evian Championship. “I’m delighted to be continuing my relationship with ECCO GOLF,” commented Ko. “It’s been a rollercoaster few years, but the brand has quite literally

been with me every step of the way. “I’m really pleased to be back in the winner’s circle this season and playing some of the best golf of my career – I’m looking forward to making many more memories wearing my ECCO GOLF shoes over the next three years.” Jesper Thuen, responsible for sponsorship at ECCO GOLF, added: “Lydia truly is one of the biggest names in women’s golf and we are delighted that she is extending her partnership with us. “We have always enjoyed an excellent relationship with Lydia, and we look forward to continuing our support as she climbs back to the very summit of the world game.” In addition to Lydia Ko, ECCO GOLF shoes are worn in competition around the world by Caroline Masson, Minjee Lee, Henrik Stenson, Fred Couples, Erik van Rooyen and Thomas Bjørn, among others. For further information about ECCO GOLF, please visit golf.ecco.com.

New From Callaway Golf-Epic Super Hybrid - Driver DNA In A Hybrid EPIC SUPER HYBRID

A hybrid with the DNA and technology of a driver, we like the sound of that. This is the new Epic Super Hybrid, better known as the most technologically advanced hybrid we’ve ever made. Epic Super Hybrid borrows key design and construction elements from our award-winning Epic Drivers. A proven and powerful foundation of an all-titanium A.I. designed Flash Face, titanium body and triaxial carbon crown. We have also incorporated several ground-breaking hybrid technologies. Our Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades stiffen the body, allowing the face to flex for even more ball speed and the addition of extreme tungsten weighting (up to 90 grams) located toward the perimeter of theclub create a potent combi-

nation of low CG and high-MOI for a high, powerful, and stable ball flight. Like a driver, Epic Super Hybrids are outfitted with total adjustability from our OptiFit 3 hosel, while offering adjustable sole weighting for precise custom builds. The new Epic Super Hybrid includes expanded loft offerings for a wider range of golfers with the addition of the 24° and 27° models.

EPIC SPEED, SPIN ROBUSTNESS + EASY LAUNCH

This is our fastest ball speed hybrid and there’s simply nothing else like it. That’s because we’ve developed an all-titanium Flash Face, along with a titanium body and combined them with our Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades. Epic Super Hybrid delivers exceptional ball speed, distance, and launch.

HIGH LAUNCH, HIGH MOI

There’s an extreme amount of tungsten weighting (up to 90 grams) split to the perimeter of the club; this provides increased stability, more forgiveness, and a hot penetrating ball flight.

TOTAL ADJUSTABILITY

We’ve provided complete adjustability with our lightweight OptiFit 3 Hosel, helping you dial in the ball flight and launch that you want to see. The addition of adjustable sole weighting allows for precise custom builds. Stock Shafts: Steelfiber FC Hybrids (60/70/80). Lamkin UTx (52g) grip. *Weights indicate weight class

September 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

ECCO GOLF

BI O M ® H 4 · NATURAL MOTION STABILITY AND CONTROL WITH A GLOVE LIKE FIT · ECCO MTN GRIP OUTSOLE WITH 360° STABILITY VIA TPU BLOCKS AND X-TENSA TECHNOLOGY INSIDE · PREMIUM PERFORMANCE LEATHER FROM ECCO’S OWN TANNERIES · 100% WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE GORE-TEX TECHNOLOGY

READ MORE HERE: GOLF.ECCO.COM SPORTS NETWORK LTD 0508 776786

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

September 2021

Driving talent from the tee Driving NEW business to the tee

ights, Camera, Action and commercial endorsements. Getting ready to take talent from the tee to film studios and beyond. Olna Inc owned by Olna Ford is familiar with cover shoots and film sets and understands that this is a big part of an athlete’s career with special appearances and endorsements supporting their sporting journey. Olna is owner of 8 companies and has been embracing and investing in the sport of Long Drive since 2016.

“Having been an endurance athlete, the modeling and endorsement sector of my career became a crucial part of income and opportunity”, says Olna. Olna Inc was formed to self manage her international career. Olna Inc is relaunching in 2022 with the focus on XDL (Xtreme Drivers League) player promotion and with this Olna thinks she may list a few Golfers from tour to promote. Promoting the National XDL teams; New Zealand Long Blacks and Aussie Long Ballers are at the forefront of plans. With contacts all around the globe Olna Inc is set to connect with the best in the business and get her high performance champions in the limelight. From the tee to the big lights Long Drivers, Xtreme Drivers and Golfers will be the focus of Olna Inc with the exception of the famous Ben Lummis who is the 1st New Zealand Idol and 5 X Platinum with Sony Records. Ben is seen on the tee for openings and singing the National Anthems. Olna is very excited to get the ball rolling on this business sector, with plenty planned for 2022. Keep your eyes out for the relaunch of Olna Inc @ www.olnainc. com

he IGANZ Trans Tasman Clash is famously recognised for bringing sports history to the two nations of Australia and New Zealand. Dating back to December 2017, the New Zealand Long Blacks landed in NSW to take on the Aussie Long Ballers for the Darren Wise Stingray (Trophy) and title win. The National Teams (Originals) autographed polo can be sighted on the wall of fame at Greg Norman’s course - Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club, NSW. The Aussie Long Ballers took out the win for the first competition, and the New Zealand Long Blacks are current holders of a back to back win. Australia has hosting rights every alternate year and with the event already challenged by bushfires, a tornado and a global pandemic for a second year in a row. The event for 2021 looks

September 2021

to be pushed into March 2022 as COVID travel restrictions are causing concern. Olna Ford, CEO of IGANZ is excited to announce more upcoming events and promotions for the National Teams, that are being planned under IGANZ Trans-Tasman Series. The additional activity will see the National players in the media limelight and in the community. Objective to grow the sports awareness whilst building the players profiles up, commercially. With the pandemic causing disruption and uncertainty, it’s an obvious decision to find other ways to keep the ball rolling and promote the sport. IGANZ website www.iganz.co.nz is being updated with all current and future events. IGANZ is an NSO for the sport and the National Teams are the driving sport for the growth plan.

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

Growing long drive into the Building strong foundations for the sport of XDL community

GANZ has been investing in the sport of Long Drive since 2016. The mission for Director of IGANZ, Olna Ford was to educate people on the sport whilst promoting the players commercially and building competition with events. The International Top 7 seen here at Hobsonville Point Secondary School left an everlasting impression with the students with a meet and greet that was organised with the first International Invitational, November 2016. Fast track to 2020 and IGANZ has completed 26 events in 5 countries, formed the National Team (New Zealand Long Blacks) and created sports history for New Zealand. During the pandemic the efforts and investment

of Olna Ford have been recognised and commended with the title of National Sports Organisation for the sport of Long Drive (amatuer league) and Xtreme Drivers League (XDL - Professional League). IGANZ group has formed New Zealand Long Drive to care for the growth of the sport nationwide. The plan is to implement the sport in every region, and adapt the promotion of the sport with inhouse products and services that will be manufactured in New Zealand to promote local as much as possible. Getting into the community and increasing participation of Long Drive is at the forefront of New Zealand Long Drives plans for 2022.

he emerging sport of Xtreme Drivers League (XDL) is going from strength to strength during the pandemic. The sport of XDL is now officially recognised and listed away from Golf which was the objective for owner of the League, Olna Ford. The main reason we needed the sport to be recognised away from Golf was that non-golfers compete in this sport, equally Xtreme Drivers are high performance athletes. With the mission to grow the sport throughout every region in New Zealand the task comes with challenges which are supported by the sport’s sponsor JP Liebenberg, owner of New Horizon Construction. JP has always been a keen supporter of sport and came in as a sponsor with his company, Cavalier Homes, Waikato. With the future plans for the sport growing rapidly the switch of JP’S logos was a good idea. New Horizon Construction will be seen on events media and products

which are being designed in house. Olna will be seeking local companies to manufacture most of her products and is looking forward to revealing what’s in store for the sport and athletes. The sport of XDL is definitely classified as an expensive sport. Sponsors are the KEY to the success of the events and the future plans that are in place. Olna has invested in the sport since 2016 and is proud to have created sports history for New Zealand and Australia with the Trans Tasman Clash and National Teams, New Zealand Long Blacks and Aussie Long Ballers, who are famously recognised on the wall of Fame at Greg Norman’s course, Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club, NSW, Australia. Olna is super excited and grateful to be supported by JP who is dedicated to seeing the sport grow. Look out for the New Horizon Construction logo and go to www.iganz.co.nz for more on the sport of XDL. #GOLFJUSTGOTLOUD

(International Top 7 - Long Drivers at Hobsonville Point Secondary School

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

September 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

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

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-

Canadian Foursomes

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

GOLF EVENT

Waihi Pairs Triple Challenge 16th-17th October 2021 E

$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

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

September 2021

GOLF TRAILS

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGIONS

OKAIHAU GOLF CLUB’S HANDICAP MATCH PLAY FINAL

NORTH HARBOUR JAMES HYDES HAS WON OVERSEAS WINNING THE WELSH MEN’S OPEN STROKE PLAY

NORTHLAND WHANGAROA GOLF CLUB - ITM CUP

Gulf Harbour’s James Hydes has won overseas winning the Welsh Men’s Open Stroke Play by 2 shots with 10 under.

Okaihau Golf club’s Handicap Match Play Final” was played recently between Phil Clement and William Austin. The Handicap Plate round was played between Alan Spray and Clint Clayden We also played for the Executive Tray as well which was won with a +4 by Greg Thomas.

WESTPORT

golf club Situated at Carters beach 7km’s south of Westport

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.

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

September 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

September 2021

WAIKATO

LYDIA AT THE GATE!

The Morrinsville Golf Club didn’t have to get Lydia Ko’s permission to plagiarise the name of the life-sized cow that stands at the gate as a welcome to visitors. But they were delighted she approved of their cow’s name – Lydia Kow! Four of the key personnel working tirelessly for the Morrinsville Golf Club. From left, Mark Goodman (men’s club captain), Leanne McGregor (ladies’ club captain), John Stirling (president) and Rachael Bergquist (office manager). The colourful cow, with scenes from the course painted on one side and the course layout on the other, is the club’s contribution to Morrinsville’s street art project “Herd of Cows”. It was painted by local artist Val Ferguson and is one of more than 60 cows that adorn many street corners, parks and schools in and around the town. A 6.5 metre cow, Mabel, stands in Thames Street as a prominent and appropriate symbol denoting Morrins-

ville as the self-claimed dairy farming capital of New Zealand. Like other cows in the town, Lydia Kow is well photographed, by golfers and others – often with “little people” (and sometimes not so little people!) sitting atop. Something else to look forward to in Morrinsville.

MORRINSVILLE GOLF CLUB, THE HIDDEN GEM, ATTRACTIVE TO VISITORS

Long-term members of organisations, including golf clubs, often look back and think “those were the days!” Morrinsville Golf Club is enjoying a period that, sometime in the future, may be considered as one of those periods. Things are humming! “A hidden gem” was the term used by a representative of one happy group of visiting golfers who took the time to email the club and say how much his group enjoyed the course. And there have been other comments that makes the club think they just might be doing some things right.

The Waikato club, in its 110th year, seems to have the right people in the right place at this time of growth, thanks (in part) to the creation of large residential sub-divisions close to the course. This started about 2005 with a developer purchasing 50 acres of farmland adjacent to the golf club on the town boundary. This enabled the club to sell an area of bare land sufficient in size to create five sections, payment being two already completed sections nearby. About half of the income from the sale of sections was invested in clubhouse improvements which were completed in time for the club’s centenary in 2011. The balance has gone into course improvements. The latest development has been to upgrade water reticulation, ensuring greens and tees can be well maintained. Because of the high cost, this is being done in three stages with stage two currently underway. The creation of residential sections has helped to increase membership numbers with these figures expected to rise as about 700 more sections in the close-by Lockerbie sub-division come on stream. Many have already been sold and building is underway. The development includes a retirement village. The club is fortunate to have a capable and enthusiastic team in charge at the present time, nobody more important than a knowledgeable green-keeper whose impact was immediate when he was appointed just six months ago. Steve Grinter has a wealth of experience, gained from several Waikato courses, most recently the larger Riverside club. Upgraded tees and a sensible plan to maintain greens have been welcomed by members and visitors alike. Wanting to ensure the growing number of visitors, having someone on hand to greet them is important. New office manager Rachael Bergquist is employed from

September 2021

Friday until Tuesday, ensuring someone is on hand for what can be busy weekends. Increased numbers of visitors, particularly groups from chartered clubs, threeputt syndicates and the like, appreciate having someone on hand to cater for their golfing needs. Men’s club captain Mark Goodman, and ladies’ club captain Leanne McGregor, have the support of their members with competitions being well patronised. These people, and an executive committee, are headed by president John Stirling in his first year of office. “We have come through a rocky period, with changes in key personnel, but seem to have come out the other side in good shape,” he says. “Things are ticking along nicely.” And while the successful operation of the club itself is important, John says his team is well aware that the club will always be judged by the course itself. But if the favourable comments of visitors is a good gauge – and it surely is – then Morrinsville has a course to be proud of. Those who haven’t had the pleasure of playing it may think six par threes is hardly a challenge. The fact that very few “burn it up” confirms this is not an easy course. It’s No 1 stroke hole (par four 380 metres to an elevated green) is as challenging as any in the province, while three lakes and several groves of well planted trees add to the beauty of the layout. Morrinsville Golf Club looks forward to hosting your group. Please give Rachael a call or book through Dot Golf. Book a Tee - Play Golf We have carts, clubs and trundlers available for hire, motor-homers are welcome and we offer discounts for large groups. Ph: (07) 889 6696 Email: morrinsville@golf.co.nz Website: http://www.morrinsvillegolf. co.nz

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

2021 WAIKATO WINTER STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP

A DOUBLE WHAMMY OF COURSE CLOSURES AT HUNTLY

Recent years have seen Huntly Golf Club Inc. overcome several adverse incidents, mainly due to the resilience of volunteer members and a ‘never say die’ attitude typical of the golfing mindset! This year seemed to be sailing along quite well post 2020 COVID19 lockdowns, with the course presented and playing in excellent condition, membership numbers growing and visitor rounds increasing. Then on the night of 2nd August 2021, a freak south-westerly storm front sped across the farmland plains of Rotowaro, before slamming into the tree lined fairways of the club’s Waikato River adjacent Te Ohaki golf course. After a week and a half of contractor and volunteer work, the course opened again for play on the 14th August, back to its best state except for some neatly piled GUR wood pyres lining several fairways, awaiting removal when firmer summer ground conditions arrive. Play however was only short lived, as a SARS-CoV2∂ lockdown arrived on the 17th and the course had to close again.

olf Club

The Star Tracy

EVERGLADES TR

GOLF

All in all, the unplanned tree program saw around 30 trees wind damaged, with well over a dozen completely uprooted and felled. Good, however, does come from such an adverse event as Huntly golfers will soon find out, with a number of those pesky ball claiming trees gone forever. No longer will they menace those wayward tee shots, or grab at those green approach shots. Alike all golf clubs across Australasia, the Huntly club live in hope that this latest Delta outbreak will quickly be over, allowing their new look golf course to be reopened for the pleasure of all. Photos: Uprooted roadside trees on the 5th fell in unison, while the 17th fairway was blocked.

21 January 2021 9x2

The 2021 Waikato Winter Strokeplay was held at Riverside Golf Club for the final time. Next year’s WWSP will be held at the brand new Tieke Golf Estate. https:// tiekegolf.co.nz/course In the Women’s Division, last year’s runner-up Eunseo Choi went one better to claim first place with a combined score of 2 under par. She beat Waikato representative player Ing Iadpluem by 3 shots. In the Men’s Division, Waikato representative player Tyler Wood found himself in a playoff for the second year in a row. After four rounds Tyler and Bay of

Plenty’s James Tauariki could not be separated both shooting combined scores of 11 under par. They replayed the 18th hole and both managed a par and then it was back down the first hole. James put his tee shot pin high three feet from the pin while Tyler, unfortunately, put his just wide of the green. Tyler wasn’t able to make an up and down and James sunk his birdie putt to claim the 2021 Waikato Winter Strokeplay Title. Waikato representative player James Fellows-Ford had an impressive tournament finishing in third place at 9 under par.

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 30

September 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

2021 PRO-DRIVE HAMILTON WAIKATO MEN’S MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS

HAWKE’S BAY NAPIER GOLF CLUB - THE KAPI TAREHA MEMORIAL EVENT

The annual Pro-Drive Hamilton Men’s Waikato Masters was held on Saturday 7th August at the Waikare Golf Club. The event was two rounds played over one day with morning and afternoon sessions. This year’s competition had a full field of 96 players. The forecast predicted scattered showers throughout the day and that is exactly what we had with rain getting very heavy at times. This made playing conditions very difficult with shots getting nearly zero roll. After round one, five players were tied for top spot after carding two over 72’s and another three players were one shot back. In the nett competition Waikato Representative player Wybo Veldman and Callum Murchison (Remuera) had the clubhouse lead after round one with a two-over par nett 72. After some much-needed food and water, the men were back out on the course ready for round two. Three Waikato locals, Mike Leeper (Matamata), Wybo Veldman (Hamilton) and Jordan Rangihika (Ngaruawahia) all finished tied for third with scores of seven over par 147. Ben Westgate (Titirangi) finished in second

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

place after he replicated his score from the morning round to finish four over par after back-to-back 72’s. Rob Simmonds (Muriwai) came storming home with the low round of the day an even par 70 to follow on from his morning round 73 and win by one shot. Having finished runner-up last year, he managed to go one better and claim first prize. In the nett competition last year’s runner-up Michael Bone (Waitakere) beat last year’s winner Wybo Veldman on countback after they both shot seven over par nett 147. Waikato Golf would like to acknowledge and pass on a huge thank you to Pro-Drive Hamilton for their continued sponsorship of this time-honoured event and pass on their appreciation to Waikare Golf Club for their continued support in making their Golf club available for this event. WAIKATO NOTICEBOARD

27-29 Sep

Huntly

NZVGA 3-day Huntly Event

29 Sep

Huntly

Monthly Midweek Open

Tyler Hodge, from Levin Golf club Winning Napier Golf Clubs most prestigious 54 hole stroke play club event The Kapi Tareha Memorial. Scores of 67, 76, 69 placed him 6 shots ahead of the next best amateur Jayden Ford, finishing 2nd. In the women’s division Tara Raj from Wanganui Golf Club with scores of 78,76,72 won by one shot from overnight leader Mimi Guo from Royal Auckland and Grange Golf Course. Kapi Men’s Overall Net Winner - Cordell Henare Napier Golf Club Audrey Mullany Net Winner - Sera Raj Wanganui Golf Club Winner of 36 Hoke Stableford - Steve McAlister Napier Golf Club

September 2021

WELLINGTON WELLINGTON GOLF REMINISCES CAMPBELL, LANE - PBGC

Two of Wellington’s best were in the mix on this wonderful day at the links. Defending champion Matthew Lane who had stormed home in 64 at Formosa to leave Michael Campbell and others in his wake, was just out of the lead after 71 68 66. It would be Campbell storming home to pass Lane and contenders, and get into and win a playoff for the title. This was a great period for the NZ Open as it circulated the country and had 6 Kiwi champs over 7 years - Long at PBGC in 96, Turner at Middlemore in 97, Lane at Formosa in 98, Campbell at PBGC in 2000, Smail at the Grange in 2001 and Pearce at Middlemore in 2003.

Aussie Craig Parry’s win in 2002 at PBGC would see the event not return to the links since, 4 years in Auckland followed by Chch and Queenstown holding every edition since.

WELLINGTON NOTICEBOARD

TASMAN TASMAN GOLF’S PAUL SILKE RECENTLY WON THE MAYFIELD MOTORWORLD RARANGI OPEN

Tasman Golf’s Paul Silke recently won the Mayfield Motorworld Rarangi Open, defying the odds and the stacked field to claim his maiden open title!

Silke who was +2 for the event held off big name players on his way to the title. He was closely followed by local pro Chas Craig who finished +3. In third place we had Tyrone Nelson who carried on his fine form from his 2008 Shirley Open win to finish at +6. Rounding out the top 5 we had two in form Tasman reps Brook Hale and Connor (originates from Hira and is part of the Long Blacks) Winter who finished the event at +7! On the ladies side, the stage was set for a battle of the young guns. Tasman’s number 1 and 2 locking horns in an epic showdown, yet sadly after day 1 Lizzie Neale had to pull out due to a back injury leaving Aroha Minhinnick to take the spoils winning the event by 14 shots over eventual second place Tracy Barry. Andrea Thomas rounds out the top 3. In the Nett, Jerome January took out the men’s overall Nett with a 142 while Di Mcarthy took out the women’s overall Nett finishing with 143!

Paul Silke showed why he is no one to be messed by finishing the event in a tie for 3rd at +1 alongside professional whitebait fisherman Michael Scholes and Tasman’s longest hitter Matthew Grimes! In second, Kameran Clarke showed his class with a pair of -1 to be -2 for the event. However with a clutch 68 on Sunday, it was Brook Hale who showed why he’s won multiple Tasman Strokeplays in his illustrious career to race out to -4 and to win by 2. On the women’s side it was Elizabeth Neale who showed her class to win by 14 strokes!

BULLER WESTLAND STROKEPLAY RESULTS

11-12 Sep

Riversdale

Riversdale Women’s 54 Hole Open

18 Sep

PBGC

Kitchen Creators PBGC Open

19 Sep

Martinborough

2021 Lamb & Chardonnay Ambrose

25 Sep

Judgeford

Vincent Ward Trophy

The first leg of the Tasman Strokeplay swing took place in Reefton recently with some sizzling scores across the board! On the men’s side, many big names were in contention at the top of the leaderboard. Connor Winter came out of the gates hot on day 1 with a 67 , then 80 the next day and finish in a 3 way tie for 5th alongside the tournaments dark horse Cameron Day.

September 2021

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

Terrace Downs Resort is a premier destination for golf, weddings, corporate events and luxury getaways alike. Based at the foothills of the Southern Alps, there are few scenic alpine golf courses around the world like it. A CPG Hotels property, Terrace Downs Resort offers a range of self-contained villa accommodation, an onsite restaurant and bar and complimentary wifi.

Terrace Downs Resort 623 Coleridge Rd, Windwhistle 7572 P 03 318 6943 E reservations@terracedownsresort.com W terracedowns.co.nz

Book your stay at Terrace Downs Resort direct and enjoy 20% off accommodation using the code GOLF20* *T&Cs apply

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

September 2021

OTAGO/SOUTHLAND

TASMAN NOTICEBOARD

OTAGO/SOUTHLAND NOTICEBOARD

NIGHTCAPS 50TH DEFENCE OF LAING SHIELD

11-12 Sep

Westport

11-12 Sep

Westrupp Cup - Women

Motueka

Mens Triangular #2

CANTERBURY

15 Sep

North Otago

North Otago 2BBB

16 Sep

Fairlie

South African Stableford Pairs

17 Sep

Geraldine

9 Hole Tournament

20 Sep

Waitoa Park

Teams Tournament

25 Sep

Highfield

CANTERBURY NOTICEBOARD

16 Sep

Avondale

Women’s Team Tournament

20 Sep

Waimakariri Gorge

9 Hole Tournament

22 Sep

Scargill

Women's Team Stableford

24 Sep

Waimairi Beach

Women’s Canadian Foursomes

25 Sep

Amuri

Men’s Canadian Foursomes Tournament

30 Sep

Rangiora

Women’s Team Stableford

Highfield Tournament Otago

Nightcaps have defeated Waikaka 4/2 in the 50th defence of the Laing Shield, recently played. Shield. Stu Dobbie has played in all 50 challenges and Brett Dobbie in 49 a fantastic effort. Individual results Nightcaps names first

Brett Dobbie beat Scott Hansen 3/2 James Harding beat Allan Smith 3/1 Stu Dobbie lost Gavin Grant 6/5 Ross Mangels beat Wayne Stark 3/2 Keith Clark beat Bradley Cross 3/2 Kevin Harvey lost Jimmy Paddon 5/4

8 Sep

Wanaka

Wanaka 36 Hole Championship 0 – 33.8

10-11 Sep

Wanaka

ANZ Private Tournament Series

12 Sep

Otago

Otago GC Weekend 18 And 9 Hole Open Tournament

18 Sep

Balclutha

Balclutha Round Table Tournament Southland

16 Sep

Winton

Winton Ladies Teams Event

20 Sep

Gore

Gore Ladies 4BBB Stableford

presents LADIES’ PAIRS STABLEFORDS Saturday 13th November

9am morning tea, 10am shotgun start, followed by Christmas lunch with prizegiving Includes 2’s, longest straightest drive, longest putt.

Now’s your chance to grab your partners. 2021 COUNTIES-MANUKAU VETERANS INTER-CLUB COMMUNITY 2021 Public Holidays

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† Qualify 4 WAIUKU

9.30 Fri 23 APR 9.30 Tue 18 MAY^

Awhitu Clarks Beach Onewhero Waiuku

Phone 027 2911125

Email: Entry or per Enquiry ENTRY FEE: $25.00 person New Year W1/1-M 6/1 Auckland Ann Mn 28/1

pgheath@xtra.co.nz

Nev McSweney

Judy Paterson 0211279757 | Wendy Bowden 0272729944 Waitangi Th 6/2 09Contacts: 2351299 awhitugolf@xtra.co.nz or email kaweraugolf@gmail.com 021 869 434 nevillejud@xtra.co.nz School Hol 28/3-14/4

Les Johns

021 565411

Bruce Wilson

Tim Howard

lesleoniejohns@gmail.com

021 155 4113 alhaurintim@yahoo.co.uk

2021 VETERANS INTER-CLUB 2021 Qualify 5 COUNTIES-MANUKAU WAIKARE 9.30 Wed 16 JUNE Waikare Noel Steele 021 155COMMUNITY 4113 waikaregolf@xtra.co.nz JJJ CUP Round

WATTLE DWNS* SGS 9.30 ThuDate 29 JULY Club Venue®

3-Person Ambrose Cup Challenger

Easter Fr 2-Mn 5/4 Anzac St 24-Mn 26/4

Public Holidays Queens B’Day Mn 1/6

Hols 4-19/7 Steve Convenor Ryan 021 Phone 294 8580 Email: s.j.ryan@hotmail.com Host Entry or Enquiry NewSchool Year W1/1-M 6/1

FinalCUP 1 HAURAKI† VVV WAITERIMU*

9.30 Mon Wed 15 1 SEPT Hauraki SteveCrooymans 467 3209 pgheath@xtra.co.nz 9.30 FEB^ Alternate Shot Pairs Paul Heath 027 2911125 MonthlyAnn 5thMn Th 28/1 30/7 crooymansfamily@xtra.co.nz Auckland

Final 2 1 MARAMARUA Qualify AWHITU*

9.30 Thu 30MAR^ SEPT 9.30 Tue 2

Final 3 2 CLARKS HUNTLY BEACH 9.30 9.30 Tue 30 12 MAR OCT Qualify Final 4 3 ONEWHERO† PUKEKOHE Qualify

9.00 Fri Mon 8 APR NOV 9.30 23

CCC CUP4 WAIUKU† Qualify WAIUKU

9.30 Tue 9.30 Tue 23 18 NOV^ MAY^

Maramarua Awhitu Huntly/Waiterimu Clarks Beach Pukekohe Onewhero NettWaiuku Strokeplay

AndreRuiterman 09 236 0513 Bruce Wilson 2351299

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

School Waitangi Hol 26/9-11/10 Th 6/2

Murray Liddle Nev McSweney

027 869 813 434 6000 nevillejud@xtra.co.nz mrrayntl@hotmail.com 021

Labour Hol Day28/3-14/4 Mn 26/10 School

David Gardiner Les Johns

027 565411 280 0515 lesleoniejohns@gmail.com gpesl@xtra.co.nz 021

Tim Tim Howard Howard

021 021 155 155 4113 4113 alhaurintim@yahoo.co.uk alhaurintim@yahoo.co.uk

9.30 Wed 16 JUNE Noel Steele 021 155 4113 * 9-HOLE COURSE PLAYER LIMITS: BB Stroke Play Waikare 72; AS Pairs Play 84; 3-Person Ambrose 96. JJJ CUP WATTLE DWNS* 9.30 Thu 29 JULY 3-Person Ambrose Steve Ryan 021 294 8580 ® FEES: Q&F Rounds $20pp; Pukekohe F4, VVV, JJJ, CCC = $25pp. Note: Clubs may vary rate. Qualify 5 WAIKARE

Monthly Th 29/10 Easter5th Fr 2-Mn 5/4 School AnzacHol St 17/12-22/1 24-Mn 26/4 Queens B’Day Mn 1/6 YOUR LATEST COVIC & GOLFING FROM SchoolNEWS Hols 4-19/7 ACROSS NZ AND Monthly 5th Th 30/7 AROUND THE WORLD

waikaregolf@xtra.co.nz s.j.ryan@hotmail.com

Final 1 HAURAKI† 1 SEPT 90-Mins Hauraki 027 467 3209 crooymansfamily@xtra.co.nz † CONVENORS MEETING: 9.30 Held Wed in Clubrooms before Start SteveCrooymans | ^ Changed event dates. Final 2 MARAMARUA 9.30 Thu 30 SEPT Maramarua AndreRuiterman 09 236 0513 acsr@actrix.gen.nz School Hol 26/9-11/10 Final 3

HUNTLY

9.30 Tue 12 OCT

Huntly/Waiterimu

Final 4

PUKEKOHE

9.00 Mon 8 NOV

Pukekohe

CCC CUP WAIUKU†

9.30 Tue 23 NOV^

Nett Strokeplay

Murray Liddle

027 813 6000 mrrayntl@hotmail.com

Labour Day Mn 26/10

David Gardiner

027 280 0515 gpesl@xtra.co.nz

Monthly 5th Th 29/10

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. September 2021 34

School Hol 17/12-22/1

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

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

EVERY SHOT IN FULL CONTROL THE ULTIMATE SPIN MACHINE TO TAKE ON ANY WEDGE SHOT

SPIN MACHINE FULL FACE JAWS GROOVES + OFFSET GROOVE-IN-GROOVE + NEW RAW FACE

CONFIDENCE & VERSATILITY FULL TOE SHAPE + SPECIALISED C-GRIND

CONTROLLED TRAJECTORY JAWS TOE PAD + VARIABLE WEIGHT PORT SYSTEM

WWW.GOLFERPACIFIC.CO.NZ

September 2021