pgueorgieff@yahoo.co.nz
Iwent to bed about 12.15am and said to my wife: Foxy can’t win, he’s just had a triple bogey.
I had been watching live television coverage of the PGA Championship at the Wentworth Club at Virginia Water, Surrey, in England with most of my attention of New Zealand golfer Ryan Fox.
The coverage did not show Fox’s triple bogey but when it showed him making birdie a few holes later it was mentioned he had scored a seven on a par four.
My heart sunk and when I looked at the clock, I thought, oh well, time to go to bed.
My wife was first up the next morning and after reading the morning news she exclaimed: “Fox won.”
I remembering thinking,
thought he might. I then questioned myself because I had said he can’t win.
But what I didn’t say was if anyone can recover from such a setback it is Foxy.
Recover he did, and in magnificent fashion. He birdied eight of the closing 13 holes to snatch victory in the PGA Championship which is the flagship event on the DP World Tour, formerly known as the European Tour.
The PGA Championship has been held at the iconic venue of the Wentworth Club a total of 44 times -- 40 times in a row -- dating back to the 1950s.
The Wentworth Club is also where the headquarters of the DP World Tour is situated and past winners of the PGA Championship include Nick Faldo, who won four times, and Bernhard Langer and Colin Montgomerie,
who each won three times.
The PGA Championship used to be the richest tournament on the DP World Tour until the arrival of the Dubai World Championship came along more than a decade ago.
The Dubai event next month carries a purse of $US10 million but the PGA Championship still holds its place as a flagship tournament on the DP World Tour with prizemoney of $US9 million.
Fox’s winning prize was $US1.53 million. That equates to $NZ2.57 million.
Wentworth was also the venue for 2005 World Matchplay Championship which was won by fellow New Zealander Michael Campbell, three months after he won the United States Open.
Fox was well aware of the history which he alluded to in his news media interviews afterwards.
Fox said: “I’m immensely proud. It’s such an iconic tournament. I know Michael Campbell has won around here when it was the match play event and to add to that history here and create some of my own is very special.”
Obviously we follow Fox because he is a New Zealander. But at the same time he is a delight to watch.
He doesn’t muck around, hits the ball a mile and can bounce back from a triple bogey on the last round in a top class field and gain victory.
This was the fourth win on the DP World Tour for Fox and he seems destined to become a regular player on the PGA Tour in the United States.
I think Fox has finally shrugged off his tag as son of All Blacks rugby legend Grant Fox.
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Atriple bogey on the last day of a major golf tournament is usually the end of a player’s winning chances.
And that’s exactly how Ryan Fox felt after racking up a seven on the par four third hole of the PGA Championship at the Wentworth Club in England last month.
Fox had to play three from the tee after whacking his first shot out of bounds and there was no recovery, as he later recalled..
“Played the hole pretty badly from there as well and made bogey with the second ball,’’ Fox said afterwards.
“I thought I was out of the tournament, to be honest.”
Fox consequently tumbled down the leaderboard and when he saw the likes of Tyrell Hatton and Jon Rahm having made good starts, he gave himself little or no chance.
“I saw Tyrrell had started well, I saw Jon Rahm had started well, and you know, if you’re five or six back from those guys, it’s going to be tough to claw back.”
But what was to follow was simply brilliant from Fox. He would go on to birdie eight of the remaining 15 holes and post a one shot victory in a historic tournament that carried a purse of $US9 million. The winner’s purse was about $NZ2.58 million.
Fox was delighted considering he has found the course difficult in the past.
“Basically I didn’t miss a shot coming down the stretch from the third hole,’’ Fox said.
“It’s a pretty tough back nine at times and that’s easily the best I’ve ever played it, socially, in a tournament, whatever, but to do it on a Sunday is tremendous.”
Fox, 36, had finished third in the Irish Open the week before but otherwise the year had not been a good one, especially off the course.
“It’s been a difficult year. Both my mother- and father-in-law were dying of cancer. Father-in-law passed away in June after a really short battle and that kind of whacked us pretty hard.”
Fox also had a stint in the United States on the PGA Tour this year.
“I’ve done a lot of travel. I’ve played a bit in the states this year, and I think every time I’ve gone home, I’ve basically not touched my golf clubs.
“There’s just been so much going on at home.”
Fox had family members on hand for the Wentworth event and he said that made a difference.
“To have the family up the last couple of weeks, a change of scenery has been fantastic. Just had a chance to refresh and it sort of made all the difference. Everything feels a bit more normal the last couple of weeks rather than just complete chaos.
“It’s pretty cool to win with everyone around here watching absent my father-in-law, but I know he would be
proud.”
Fox had won the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland last October and he said to win at the likes of St Andrews and Wentworth was amazing.
“Two iconic venues on the DP World Tour. You look at the list of names that have won on them, that’s pretty significant, and to add my name to the list, especially this week is incredible.”
Fox was asked when he thought he had a chance of winning.
“Probably when I birdied 14. Obviously I knew I was close but Tyrrell, every time I looked, Tyrrell was picking the ball up out of the hole. The (weather) conditions when we were on 14 were awful as well, and thought, well, if you can par into the house, I have a really good chance here.”
Play was subsequently delayed but
when it returned, Fox made a great recovery on No 15 from amongst the trees to finish 10 feet from the hole and sink the putt for birdie.
“That birdie on 15 made a massive difference. I think I had 172 metres and it was a nice punk seven iron. I had a perfect gap. It was framed nicely through the trees and came out exactly as I wanted it. It was a guess on the yardage but came out pretty good in the end.’’
The drama continued right through to the 18th. He found the left rough off the tee which denied him the chance to go for the green in two on the par five.
He laid up to about 100 metres but knocked his third shot to about six feet from the hole. His putt was on the mark and he raised a fist in delight as he could see the ball going in.
my mind off and focusing on what I could control, which was putting one foot in front of the other and hitting one shot at a time. We did that well throughout the entire last day.”
The Eisenhower team is trending nicely, with Jones finishing second and fellow teammate Kazuma Kobori finishing fourth. The Eisenhower is a world amateur men’s team event and is to be held in the United Arab Emirates this month.
Ford is looking forward to teeing it up on one of golf’s biggest stages alongside a couple of his good mates.
“I’m really looking forward to it. It’s one of the biggest golf events in the world, and it’s a team event. Playing alongside a couple of good mates is going to be really special; that day can’t come soon enough.”
birthday.
Wellington won the Grant Clements Memorial Trophy team’s event with Sam Marsters combining with the tournament winner nicely to win comfortably. Ford also wrapped up the individual men’s trophy, with Rebekah Blackwell-Chin winning the women’s event at 11 over par.
Guy Harrison went back-toback at the Christies Floorings All Abilities Mount Open, winning by an incredible 27 shots.
The Napier golfer shot 83 and 79 to win the event again.
Harrison said: “It’s so cool to win this event again. The course was in amazing condition, and it’s a privilege to be back here playing.
Jayden Ford tore the Mt Maunganui golf course apart to win his first Charles Tour event, the Mount Open.
The Wellington amateur last month finished 24 under par to win by an astounding eight shots after rounds of 67, 64, 64, and 65 over his Eisenhower Trophy teammate Sam Jones.
Ford, 19, began the final round of the tournament sponsored by Christies Flooring, three shots ahead of Jones and never looked like he’d be caught.
He got off to the perfect start, rolling a 25-foot birdie putt on the first hole to match Jones, who had stiffed one in tight for a birdie of his own. However, Ford rattled off
three more birdies on the trot from the third hole to pull six shots away from the chasers through the opening six holes, and he never looked back.
The dominant display continued on the closing nine as he added three more birdies and a bogey to his scorecard, stretching his lead to eight heading up the final hole. A solid par was more than enough to seal his first win on the Charles Tour, sponsored by Jennian Homes, -- an achievement that Ford was proud of.
“I’m over the moon. I’m really happy with how I played,’’ Ford said.
“It’s hard to describe the feeling – I’m just really happy.”
Ford admitted he was feeling plenty of nerves ahead
of his final round, but a solid game plan put a lot of those nerves to rest.
He said he and his caddy focused on doing the simple things right, which he will implement in his upcoming overseas events next month.
“I was telling my caddy Ciaran [Sim] that I was quite nervous last night and this morning when I woke up,’’ Ford said.
“Usually, I pray on the first tee, but today, I said a little prayer in the car park as well. I felt okay for the rest of the day and took it one shot at a time – I stayed in the moment nicely throughout the whole day. Ciaran and I did our own thing.
“The winning thoughts definitely crossed my mind out there. It was just a matter of trying to switch that part of
Tyler Hodge finished as the leading professional in the Mount Open, finishing third at 14-under and picking up a healthy pay cheque on his
“My round was a bit up and down today. I made heaps of pars, which were gritty pars from the trees most of the day,” Harrison said with a laugh.
“Those really saved me. I also made a few birdies, which was nice – it was just a really solid round of golf today.”
Mornington Peninsula which is renowned for its sandbelt courses.
They had to beat a strong field with an international presence and some professionals. Their four shot margin over seasoned Australian professional Mike Clayton, a winner of eight events in his career, and Terence Thornton, was impressive.
Palmer went one better winning the women’s individual event over two rounds with scores of 86 at Woodlands and 83 at Kingston Heath, well clear of her rivals.
In the overall scoring, which included the men and women, she placed an impressive seventh. Lawson, the Christchurch Golf Club course superintendent, finished a creditable seventh in the men’s field.
What made Palmer’s efforts even more notable was the fact that this was the first time she had played 18 holes with hickory clubs. Apart from the 12 holes at the 2023 New Zealand Hickory Open earlier this year she has only been playing nine holes with hickory clubs.
How did Palmer get into hickory golf?
not hard, especially for a woman, to pick them up because you don’t change your swing too much. It is challenging and different and that is what I like.
“Currently I am just happy relaxing and playing whenever and wherever. So it is quite nice for a change and meeting a new group of people.”
Will you go to the World Championships?
“No, just aim for the New Zealand Hickory Open in March, 2024. They intend making it a bigger event over a week and hope to get more international players to play. Making it a celebration with wives and partners will add to the enjoyment.”
Palmer has been one of Canterbury’s leading women players for some years so we asked her about her background.
Palmer eventually played for the New Zealand development team which played the trans-Tasman in Australia. Fellow team members were Julianne Alvarez, Wen Yung Keh and Laura Hoskin. She continued playing under-19 events and representative events.
She has been playing for Canterbury for the last 10 years or so as a member of the Christchurch Golf Club. Canterbury won the New Zealand Interprovincial title in 2015 after a 27 year drought. The team included Palmer, Momoka Kobori, Amelia Garvey, Hillary O’Connor and Julianna Hong. It certainly holds fond memories for Palmer.
So what does the future hold for Palmer?
By Neville IdourCatherine Palmer (nee Bell) and Mark Lawson from the Christchurch Golf Club played superbly to win the coveted foursomes’ title at the combined Australian and Asia-Pacific Hickory Golf Championships in Melbourne recently. They combined to record a superb 72 on the new Sandy Links course on the
“During covid in level two you could play by yourself and one day I met Peter Van Ekelen who was playing with his hickory clubs,’’ Palmer began to explain.
“We got chatting. He said that no women were playing hickory golf and suggested I should give it a go. I thought why not and started playing hickory twilight at the Christchurch club at the end of 2022.
“I think when you play day to day it is
“I was brought up in Ashburton. Both mum and dad played golf. I played all sorts of sports growing up such as netball, squash, basketball and tennis. I really enjoyed tennis and wish I had kept it up but it always clashed on Saturday with golf which I started playing when I was 12. My parents moved to near the Ashburton golf course, so I could just walk there to play.
“We had 12 acres and still have. Dad pulled out all the fences and gang-mowed the paddocks to make our own driving range. So I could hit balls most days.
“My coach was Andre Van Staden who is now coaching at the Remuera club. When I was 15 I played interclub for Russley.”
“I will probably get back into representative golf eventually (She is having a spell from it this year). I just needed a break to enjoy my weekends,’’ she added with a laugh.
“I like to put the work ethic in on my game and consistency, even if I may perform well enough to make the team. I want to know I deserve to be in the team. I just didn’t want that commitment this year.”
Previously a dental assistant, for the last year Palmer has been relishing her role as Canterbury Golf participation co-ordinator, working with junior golf and the She Loves Golf programme, which introduces women to playing golf.
New Zealanders featured in the Jack Newton Junior International at Cypress Lakes golf course in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales, at the end of last month.
Cooper Moore (Canterbury) was outstanding, winning
the under-15 age group with seven under par which was six shots ahead of Ryan Xie (Auckland) at one under par. Moore came close in the overall event with 141 golfers 17 years and under from various countries.He was tied for the lead playing the final hole but his ball spun off the green into a hazard, ending his winning chance. Although he had to settle for third place it was a superb
effort.
Robby Turnbull (Auckland) was also to the fore finishing tied third with Moore. Xie on one under par was tied seventh.
Best performed girls were Aucklanders Amy Im (+6) who was 13th, Chloe Lam (+11) tied 22nd and Grace Zhan (+12) 24th.
out of his shell and into sport and I just treated him like I treated all the other kids.”
Wiremu, himself, has been a recent convert to golf, roped into a round last year by Ōpōtiki Golf Club junior convener and coaching legend Mickey Huriwaka.
Spreading his passion for the game, Wiremu encouraged a group of six young Tāneatua School lads into competing at the AIMS Games. Wiremu had to ring around some of his mates to borrow clubs for his young charges to use.
“For the last two weeks, it wasn’t really about taking them out on the course to practise golf. I was taking them out to practise golf etiquette and all that stuff,” he said.
memorable 2008 netball triumph -featuring a future Black Ferns star Stacey Fluhler.
Waititi added: “AIMS Games has amazing facilities and the kids get to be around different types of people –it’s far more than just sports. It’s a safe environment with good people around and without any competition – all the competitors are really quite supportive of each other.”
Down the road in Ōpōtiki, dedicated coach Mickey Huriwaka brought five boys and three girls from Ōpōtiki up to the AIMS tournament -- with three of them finishing in the top 10. Tokyo Hargreaves on 61 points was second, and Kobey Kingi on 56 points finished third, while Precious Herman’s 43 points were good enough for ninth.
A12-year-old schoolboy from a small rural town in the Bay of Plenty has caused a shock-wave in New Zealand’s golfing scene – winning a national title after only having played three rounds of golf in his life.
Bayleigh Teepa-Tarau is the new champion of the nine-hole golf competition at the national AIMS (association of intermediate and middle schools) Games held in Tauranga last month, the biggest sporting event in New Zealand for 11-13-year-olds.
Teepa-Tarau amassed a staggering 87 stableford points from his three nine-hole rounds – thanks to a barrage of booming drives and unerring iron shots.
Hailing from the small township of Tāneatua – which doesn’t even have a golf course – the talented youngster strolled down the fairways of Mount Maunganui, Otumoetai and Summerhills golf clubs with a beaming smile, wearing basketball boots, and playing with borrowed clubs.
As he had only ever played three rounds of golf before going to the AIMS Games, Teepa-Tarau was given a scoring handicap to reflect his newness to the game. Teepa-Tarau also has autism – meaning that until recently, he spent most of his time in class under his desk, not speaking.
As well as winning the individual title, Teepa-Tarau helped his schoolmates Pedro Robinson and Lincoln Reneti to the team title as well. The boys from Tāneatua School were playing against students from schools around New Zealand.
“The thing I love about golf is hitting my driver,” Teepa-Tarau said afterwards.
“I dreamed about coming here and finishing in first place. And I had a lot of fun.”
Looking as though he was a born golfer, Teepa-Tarau strode confidently from tee to green throughout the tournament, with a facial expression lodged somewhere between casual focus and joy – even on his last hole of the tournament, where he was inches away from carding an eagle score.
For the boy’s parents Hemi Tarau and Pare Teepa, his grandfather and grandmother following in a cart, and various other supporting relatives, seeing their boy emerge in the past year was worth much more than the gold medals draped around his neck.
“Oh, I’m so proud of him,” Tarau said.
“I’m surprised at how well he did because of his autism but then I’m not surprised. He wasn’t really a sports kid a few years ago but he’s just got right into it now and it has done amazing things for his confidence.”
Tarau suspects there’s something in the autism spectrum disorder that could be perfectly suited for the temperament of golf.
“It doesn’t really fluster him too much if he does a bad shot. He just likes hitting, so he really doesn’t care. And he doesn’t know how good he is – although he’s getting told a lot about that in the last couple of days.”
On Teepa-Tarau’s club carry bag over the three days was Tāneatua School teacher aide Whetu Wiremu, although their journey together has been much longer than a road trip along the Bay of Plenty’s highways.
When Wiremu discovered that Teepa Tarau was always swinging a stick around, and had been ever since he could walk, he decided to formally introduce the youngster to golf.
“He never used to even talk to anyone,” Wiremu recalled.
“I’ve done heaps of work with him for the last couple of years just to get him
“At the start of it, when someone was hitting the ball, they’d be running in front of people and trying to chip on the greens. They’ve come a long way and for them to improve that much in such a short amount of time, honestly, I’m just so proud.”
Wiremu grew up in nearby Ruatoki and is currently studying to be a teacher, having served a three-year teacher-aide apprenticeship. He played rugby union, rugby league, and touch rugby as a kid but now has a sneaking suspicion that golf could be an even better pathway for his young students.
“They come from a place where there’s poverty, gangs, drugs, violence, and for them to have this type of opportunity to see and meet people like this is just real heart-warming for me,” he said.
Like many settlements in the eastern Bay of Plenty, and indeed throughout regional New Zealand, Tāneatua is a town filled with heart and community pride which has embraced the participation element of golf as a sport.
An emotional Tāneatua School’s sports co-ordinator, Te Ahuru Waititi, sat in the Mount Maunganui Golf Club clubrooms, tears welling and voice cracking at the conclusion of the competition as she watched the pupils striding to victory. Because of costs, Tāneatua School hasn’t been able to get a team to the AIMS Games in more than a decade.
“It’s really, really emotional for me because I know the backgrounds of our kids and the hardships and the trauma – it’s really hard-out,” she said.
“We are lucky because Whetu is really keen on golf – he plays in his spare time and about 20 kids have been going to practise golf on a Monday.
“It just gives them opportunities outside of the normal sports like netball and rugby but it’s also about just trying to get them life experiences outside our community.”
The golf team’s gold medals were the first for the school since their
Last year, Huriwaka won Golf New Zealand’s community coach of the year award for starting the Rangatahi junior golf development programme. He promotes, cajoles, and supports dozens of young Eastern Bay youngsters – using golf as a vehicle for change.
“Golf itself is such a good social networking opportunity, and it teaches a lot of the young ones a lot about themselves,” Hurikwaka said. “That’s why I love teaching young kids about a sport that I love.”
Even though Teepa-Taru’s phenomenal efforts cost his own Ōpōtiki team the title, Huriwaka was one of the lad’s biggest cheerleaders throughout the week. With the ripples of Huriwaka’s programme spreading, he can claim some of the credit for Teepa-Tarau’s win too.
For Teepa-Tarau, the next step is looking at competing in the Special Olympics. He has big shoes to follow in that respect – with Kiwi golfer Mitch Brown from Great Barrier Island winning the gold medal at this year’s Special Olympics in Berlin, Germany, against competitors from around the world.
Word of Teepa-Tarau’s medal-winning achievement quickly spread around the eastern Bay of Plenty, where local business Waiotahi Contractors bought Tāneatua’s newest sporting champ a set of his own golf clubs so he can continue on his sporting journey.
to play in the Hickory Open or just give it a go can hire a set. You get a driver, driving iron, a mid-iron, a mashie niblick (equivalent to a nine iron or pitching wedge) and a putter.
“Back in the early days golf wasn’t about wedge play. There may not have been long rough but the whole course was rough and sandy turf. There was no such thing as bunkers. The advent of bunkers came about in the late 1800s from what were sandtraps in Scotland.
“Collecting clubs has taught me a lot. We can go back to 1400 when the game of golf we know today was called kolf in Denmark. It was played inside a room with four posts in the four corners and you had to get the ball with a club to the posts in the least number of shots. So that was the beginnings of golf.
“The two New Zealand Hickory Opens we have had has planted a seed and it has grown exponentially in those two years to where we now have a big number of players in each of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and further south. A number of players from Christchurch are going to the Australian Open, New South Wales and Queensland Opens.
a hickory open. I never thought I would do it in my life.”
Upton has some great memorabilia.
“I have some old mesh patterned golf balls from around 1900. I have what were called slip on spikes which slip on everyday shoes so those were your golf shoes.”
Interestingly every country in the world that has golf as a sport holds a hickory open. Australia has been going nine years, USA and Europe longer and China for three years. There is a World Hickory Open in Scotland annually at the St Andrews old course and you do not have to qualify. You just pay your money and play. Upton intends to play in it before age catches up with him.
Upton pointed out that all of his clubs are originals and date back as far as 120 years-old. However there are replica clubs available and some restored clubs are replicas and therefore quite modern.
“I’m not a big fan of them because being made with modern technology they may give an advantage over original clubs. Maybe a better way would be to have categories for an event — a replica class and an originals class. That may be better or fairer.”
By Neville IdourStu Upton is a key figure in the hickory golf scene in Christchurch.
He collects and refurbishes hickory golf clubs that become available from all over New Zealand. He then makes them available in sets for players who want to become part of the hickory golf scene renaissance that is fast growing throughout New Zealand and overseas.
It was good to catch up with Stu and talk about his golf involvement. We asked how it all began.
“I have been playing golf since I was about 11 years old. I just love the game and play to a reasonably competent level. Now at nearly 60 I’m on a five handicap.’’
So how did the hickory involvement begin?
“In 2010 I was at an antique fair in Akaroa (near Christchurch) and I picked up an old putter with a hickory shaft and no grip.
“I said how did they play golf with this stuff? That was my first club and I still have it.
“t sparked an interest that is now more of an addiction than an interest. I probably have close to 650 clubs and 80 or so bags plus merchandise.
“I have 56 right-handed sets and seven left-handed. The higher lofted clubs are harder to get. Anything left-handed I grab real quick as they are scarce.”
Upton said New Zealand online auction website Trade Me is his main source over the 13-year period he has been seeking hickory clubs.
“Some of them are in appalling condition but I restore them to like new off the shop floor. So anyone who wants
“We are now part of the World Hickory Golf Society who have set up an American wing, a European wing and an Asia-Pacific wing which New Zealand is part of. I am going to Vietnam to promote the game as golf is very elitist and expensive there. They are keen to get involved with the hickory game.”
Upton is keen to see the 2024 New Zealand Hickory Open to have no age or handicap limits otherwise it is too restrictive.
“It should be a hit and a giggle, not serious,’’ Upton continued.
“We don’t want people taking it too seriously. To be open we can’t have limits. We had a cut of an 18 handicap which is not fair. We need to promote the fun side of golf as it was played 100 years ago.
“The older guys who want to play aren’t on 18 or less handicaps. Some guys at the first open said you have made my dream come true to play in
This year’s New Zealand Hickory Open suffered through a lack of promotion by Golf New Zealand but next year’s event will be advertised and on the calendar well before the end of this year. So we can expect the 2023 field of 50 to be far greater in 2024 and possibly a full one if Upton has anything to do with it.
of many current and former players on the tour to echo those sentiments.
By Neville IdourChief executive Keith Pelley categorically denied that the DP World Tour was now merely a feeder tour for the PGA Tour following the much vaunted “strategic alliance” last year.
He told a Golf Channel programme that such comments hugely irritated him.
Sorry Keith but the evidence at this year’s DP World Tour events appears to back the many critics and players who have been saying the PGA Tour is the main beneficiary of the alliance.
Sure some events have more prizemoney but it pales into insignificance next to the huge increases on the PGA Tour and with its “designated” events which keep the best players there.
Matt Fitzpatrick, the 2022 United States Open champion, said: “There is a definite sadness. I don’t think the alliance has been useful. It is definitely going to become a feeder tour.”
Lee Westwood has been outspoken saying the PGA Tour “has always been bullies.”
Westwood has been telling Pelley and his board what would happen from the beginning. He said “getting into bed with the PGA Tour was a mistake.”
Westwood and Fitzpatrick are only two
An examination of many of this year’s events, some formerly marque events and must-plays for the best Europeans and a number of PGA tour players, reveals Pelley must have blindfolds on.
Looking at the various events in order and the top 30 finishers in each, we start with the Euro Open. The only top 100 finisher in the top 30 was ranked 97th. Of the top six finishers, the highest ranked was 211, the lowest 588.
In the Scandinavian Mixed the only top 100 ranked finisher in the top 30 was Alex Noren at 64th.
In the German Open only the 50th and 64th ranked players made the top 30.
Next up the British Masters was won by 265th ranked Daniel Hillier much to New Zealanders delight. Four top 100 players finished in the top 30. Justin Rose was highest ranked at 31st.
The Netherlands Open event saw the 53rd, 81st and 45th ranked players finish in the top 10. There were no others in the top 30.
The Denmark Open was next. The only two top 100 players in the top 30, finished first (85) and fourth (97). The World Invitational in Northern Ireland lacked star power with Adrian Otaegui (89th) the only top 100 player finishing fifth.
The recent Irish Open was boosted by
the presence of their own Rory McIlroy (2) and Shane Lowry (37). Ryan Fox (46) was the next highest ranked player. These three along with the 50th, 51st, 81st and 85th ranked players finished in the top 30. This was a $US6million event but still not enough to draw players from the PGA Tour.
The fields in all these events were filled by many players ranked from 400 to much higher, even the 900s, and some with no ranking.
All of that being said you don’t need a field chock full of stars to produce exciting golf, as with Hillier’s win at the British Masters. However, the quality of the field will draw youngsters to see the games best players.
It is hard not to wonder if the DP World Tour shot itself in the foot by banning the many former European Tour loyalists and emerging talents on the LIV Tour from playing on the DP World Tour.
Even though the prizemoney is peanuts next to LIV and the PGA Tour, the likes of Garcia, Poulter, Westwood, Stenson, MacDowell, Kaymer and others have made it clear they would continue to support the tour they have always played, given the chance.
The Asian Tour has benefitted from the DP World Tour’s stance, gaining more status and support with its welcoming approach.
Add to all of the foregoing, the fact that inexplicably Pelley agreed to the top 10 players on the end of year DP World Tour rankings, not already PGA Tour members, to gain their PGA Tour cards is beyond logical belief.
That means over a five-year period the 50 best players could have disappeared rarely to be seen again on the DP World Tour. How can that help the tour to retain any mana? All that does is ensure the best players are channelled to the PGA Tour ad infinitum.
The European Tour, as the DP World Tour was formerly known, was always “its own man”, making its own decisions. No longer, it would appear.
However there is more water to flow in the merger saga and the end result is by no means certain.
The sooner all players are allowed to ply their own trade where they wish the better — and be able to earn meaningful world ranking points. By that we mean the two big tours should only have rules that say players need to play a reasonable set number of events, but have no jurisdiction over where else they want to play.
Then and only then will the game of golf become truly global for players, with freedom of choice.
The Cambridge Golf Club has a range of facilities for the use of members and their guests.
Cambridge Golf Club has two dedicated practice areas. We have a driving range with target greens - buckets of balls may be purchased from the Pro Shop. The separate practice fairway includes a green with chipping and bunker practice areas.
BAR AND LOUNGE
The Club has a large lounge, suitable for functions and corporate entertainment and a fully stocked bar. Weather permitting, you can sit out on the balcony overlooking the 18th green. Resident caterers, Paynters Catering, provide a wide range of hot and cold food. The bar and catering facilities are open each day except Monday and Friday.
The Club has seven carts that can be rented through the Pro Shop. Visitors are welcome to bring their own carts onto the course but in wet conditions please check with the office prior to playing.
Up to six guests offered modern, three bedroom home on edge of picturesque Morrinsville Golf Club only 90 minutes from Auckland, New Zealand. Another 12 courses within 30 minutes’ drive. Two bathrooms, Sky TV, spa pool. $250 per night (two guests) – minimum six nights. Additional guests $50.00pn. One golf cart included, additional by arrangement. Discounted golf fees (TBA).
Available from approx. December 20, 2023 to January 31, 2024. Other dates could be considered.
The pace of play in golf is a never ending point of discussion and annoyance for golfers.
Unfortunately the example of too many professionals does not help the situation as many of us mortals and up and coming youngsters decide to imitate their ridiculous pre-shot routines where time stands still for far too long.
In recent times there have been some classic examples of players pushing and breaking the envelope. This despite the PGA Tour’s updated pace of play policy in 2020.
However, its monetary fines (if any) are kept hush hush and stroke punishments are in my memory rare as hen’s teeth.
Rule 5.6b is clear. You should be able to make a stroke within 40 seconds of being able to do so without interference or distraction.
The LPGA Tour also has the same problem, so it was refreshing to see perennial offender Carlota Ciganda penalised two strokes on the final hole while grinding to make the cut at the Evian Championship in France recently.
She took more than the allotted time to putt while on the clock. Not surprisingly she threw her toys out of the cot, refused the penalty, signed her incorrect scorecard and was disqualified.
She then opined: “Poor performance from the LPGA rules’ official. They don’t understand what professional golf is about. They only look at their stopwatch as if 20 seconds is going to make a difference.
“I wish everyone gets treated the same and they don’t pick on the same players all the time.”
Sorry, Carlotta, just speed up. If three players in a group collectively play 220 shots at plus 10 seconds like Carlotta Ciganda you have an extra 37 minutes for the round. Ciganda was also penalised for slow play in 2021 and needs to realise she is a serial offender.
Nelly Korda, a fast player, was very firmly in favour of strict rule enforcement.
“I really like Carlota, but the rules are
the rules and it is really important they are being enforced,’’ Korda said.
“If I was a spectator out here for up to six hours it is tough to watch. You want to watch sport that is continually moving not continuously stalling.”
There have been far too many examples of snail golf this year. Here are a few.
At the BMW International, Maximilian Keiffer ended near a tree on the par five 16th. He took 90 seconds to miss a shot by six inches.
He then took another two minutes to take a drop. By the time he took his final shot he had taken almost five minutes over the whole charade.
Who can forget Patrick Cantlay’s glacial pace at the US Masters when Brooks Koepka told a reporter afterwards that the group in front was brutally slow.
“Jon went to the bathroom seven times and we were still waiting,” Brooks said.
At the US Open, Beau Hossler on the 18th took 105 seconds from when he placed his ball for a two foot putt to actually strike the putt.
Justin Thomas, in the rough with the ball visible, took 90 seconds surveying his ball before Hovland played his shot then took another two minutes 30 seconds to play after Hovland.
Chris Kirk at the Honda Classic had a chip shot through a 10 feet wide gap from a foot behind it. Simple shot for these professionals. But he still took four minutes from when he reached his ball to play his shot.
Padraig Harrington is often hilarious to watch preparing for a putt. Unfortunately time is rarely a consideration. He took almost three minutes over a putt at the Dominion Energy Charity Classic.
At the Charles Schwab on the 11th he watched Steve Alker’s putt on the same line then took 90 seconds to miss his five footer, then another 90 seconds over his 15 inch tap in.
LIV Golf is faster all round and it is not surprising because of their pace of play policy. It is the same 40 seconds
except the first player is allowed 50 seconds. Richard Bland recently took 84 seconds over a tee shot and was immediately penalised one shot.
It is ridiculous to find that the last time a player received a slow play penalty was when John Catlin was penalised for two infringements at the 2021 PGA Championship.
Before that it was at the 2013 Masters where youngster Guan Tianlang and partner Matteo Manassero were penalised. No big names there.
The women do not escape.
H J Kim took 100 seconds over a routine shot at the US Open.
Ayaka Furue, at the Meijer Classic, spent two minutes talking to her caddie over a shot in a good lie off fairway before preparing to play.
Unfortunately Lydia Ko came in for comment from Laura Davies at the US Open on the 16th hole in the final round. Ko had hit a booming 290 yard drive, clear of Nelly Korda and Charley Hull, but hit the poorest approach to be five metres short of the green.
She was four shots outside the cut at this stage but took over 90 seconds to play the simple chip shot prompting Davies to say quite rightfully “At plus six just get on with it at this stage.”
However not all are slow so why not us finish with two of the best examples of how to play golf.
Forget about pace and routines, but just having a pace of play that flows. On his home course at the Saudal Open in Belgium we saw the perfect example of how Thomas Detry, a more than useful player, approaches the game. In round three on the par three 12th hole he was faced with a difficult chip from the first cut of rough just 12 inches from the water.
From the time he reached his ball he took a mere 16 seconds to play his shot to get close to the hole. Detry is a fine example for youngsters and all, as is Ryan Fox.
Surely there is no one playing professional golf who plays the game to the letter of perfect pace and decorum. All New Zealand golfers and fans should
feel pride, as should Fox, at the way he plays.
On the tee he is always ready to play without delay. On the fairway when waiting for others to play he assesses his shot and is then ready to play when it is his turn. On the green it is the same as he assesses his line and putt while waiting for others.
If all professionals adopted the processes of Fox, four-hour rounds would be an absolute maximum. Wouldn’t that revolutionise the game for everyone including spectators and television viewers.
Unfortunately that cannot happen unless you can change the mindset of the Cantlays, Harringtons and Cigandas et al.
Perhaps the time has come to fire all coaches and psychologists who have convinced professionals and of course those who copy them that they have to have an elaborate, rigid process before they even think about hitting a shot.
Too many players have been convinced that a deliberate pre-shot routine is compulsory to hit a quality shot.
Not true, otherwise slow play would not be a problem.
Why? Because it would be fairways and greens all the time and pace of play would be electric.
Maybe we can let Matt Fitzpatrick have the last say.
“If you are in a three ball, in my opinion you should be round in four to four and a half hours maximum. It is a disgrace to take more time. Five and more hours is appalling.
“I feel it is almost a waste of time talking about it as the PGA Tour and DP World Tour … no one is going to do anything about it.”
For Fitzpatrick, governance would see dropping the time allowed to play a stroke, players to be more ready when it is their turn, and for tournament officials to crack down on timing players, and for players to take it upon themselves.
It would be great if it happened before we had to see a pig flying by.
We are running several golf activities including Stableford, Net, Gross and Ambrose events catering for people of all abilities with multiple prizes. Come and experience the uniqueness of playing golf on a geothermal course with warm water lakes and plopping mud pools.
We look forward to seeing you for a great week of fun and festivities.
MONDAY 23 OCTOBER
MIXED STABLEFORD - play 18 holes or 9 holes. Tee times will open from 7:30am to 4pm (18 holes will close at 2:30pm). There will be a prize giving in the clubhouse at 6pm where everyone can mix and mingle and enjoy each other’s company. Build your own burger BBQ for those that would like to stay for dinner.
Cost - $50/person for 18 holes, $25/person for 9 holes.
TUESDAY 24 OCTOBER
18-HOLE LADIES EVENT to be enjoyed. Come and join us for a shot gun start at 11am where you will enjoy a round of golf on our unique course, while meeting new friends along the way. This event will include stableford, net and gross prizes and includes a team stableford prize for teams of two. Prizegiving will take place after the event and food is included as part of the entry fee. Cost - $60/person.
WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER
18-HOLE MEN’S EVENT not to be missed. Come and join us for a shot gun start at 12pm and play with likeminded golfers who enjoy the challenge and camaraderie the game has to offer. This event will include stableford, net and gross prizes and includes a team stableford prize for teams of two. Prizegiving will take place after the event and food is included as part of the entry fee. Cost - $60/person.
This day is a must do - a 4 BALL AMBROSE TEAM’S EVENT run in conjunction with the local tourism providers that will create plenty of atmosphere and lots of fun. Enter with a group of friends or individually and we will put you into a team. This event caters for golfers of all levels who enjoy a good time. The event will be a shotgun start at 11am and includes great spot prizes including a $2,000 Rotorua holiday treat. There will also be a $10,000 prize for the first person to score a hole in one on the signature hole, the 14th. Entry includes a catered lunch on course and drinks. A prize giving will be held at the conclusion of the event. Cost - $100/person.
FRIDAY 27
GOLF NOVELTY DAY. Come to Arikikapakapa, the home of Rotorua Golf from 11am to partake in the longest drive, putting and chipping competitions. Prizes will be on offer for these events. The Kanuka Café will be open for lunch and has a range of great food to get you through the rest of the day. Cost - $10/person per activity.
9 AND DINE – Experience the uniqueness of Arikikapakapa during the twilight with this event. This is a 9-hole individual stableford event starting at 5:30pm off multiple tees. Prize giving will take place at the conclusion of the event around 7:30pm. Entry includes a meal and the bar will be open to enjoy the range of beverages that Arikikapakapa has to offer. Cost - $35/person
Arikikapakapa reserve was gifted from Ngati Whakaue to the people of New Zealand. Active thermal areas make this stunning golf landscape truly unique.
This weekend will see Arikikapakapa host the ROTORUA OPEN. The Open will be played across 54 holes with 36 taking place on the Saturday and 18 on the Sunday. Both days will see a two tee start at 8am and 1:30pm on the Saturday and 10:30am on the Sunday. There will be two divisions, the Open Division that is targeted at top level amateurs and a Seniors Division for players 50 years and over. Spaces will be limited to 32 players in the Senior Divisions and up to 84 in the Open Divisions so best to get in quick to confirm a spot. For the Saturday, there will be a $10,000 prize for the first person to score a hole in one on the signature hole, the 14th. Cost - $120/person
The Rotorua Golf Club is close to major Rotorua hotels and motels, and right next door to the Whakarewarewa Pohutu Geyser and Thermal Reserve Te Puia, both must see tourist destinations. A must play for golfers visiting the area; the greens are beautifully shaped and a pleasure to be on, we hope to see you soon at Arikikapakapa.
Arikikapakapa reserve was gifted from Ngati Whakaue to the people of New Zealand. Active thermal areas make this stunning golf landscape truly unique. The Rotorua Golf Club is close to major Rotorua hotels and motels, and right next door to the Whakarewarewa Pohutu Geyser and Thermal Reserve Te Puia, both must see tourist destinations.
A must play for golfers visiting the area; the greens are beautifully shaped and a pleasure to be on, we hope to see you soon at Arikikapakapa.
It is probably true to say most pundits viewed left-handed Brian Harman as one of those golfers who would have their days in the sun without ever being rated a top echelon player.
Well he laid that one to rest with his wonderful consistent and irresistible display to win the 2023 Open Championship in England by a thumping six shots from the likes of Jon Rahm and Jason Day.
It was all the more remarkable as without him there would have been a four-way playoff in a very tight finish. It was Harman’s first win in six years and the third of his PGA Tour career and fifth overall.
In doing so he became the fifth player to join left handers major championship winning royalty.
New Zealand’s Sir Bob Charles was the first lefty to win a major which came in the 1963 Open. Then there was a wait of 40 years before Mike Weir won the US Masters in 2003. Since then Phil Mickelson has won six major titles interrupted by Bubba Watson winning the 2012 US Masters.
Harman’s overall success at major events had been modest. He had made the cut in 17 of 30 events, with the standout a tie for second at the 2017 United States Open and one other top five.
His accumulation of around $US29 million in prizemoney on the PGA Tour is not to be sneezed at. He said his proudest achievement was making the FedEx Cup playoffs for 12 consecutive years including this year. Another claim to fame was scoring two holes in one in the same round at the 2015 Barclays.
The 36-year-old’s presence in events
is now more noticeable and at the time of writing he was ranked ninth on the world rankings. Before his win in The Open, his highest world ranking in his 14 years had been 20th. So how surprising was it that he was capable of running away with a major title? Not, according to many of his peers.
Padraig Harrington suggested he
had the perfect chip on his shoulder and that drives him.
“He is a very determined and gritty person but probably doesn’t get the credit for how he performs,” Padrington said.
Zach Johnson, his neighbour on St Simons Island on the coast of Georgia in the United States, said “He does everything quite well. Very good driver and extremely good putter. It does not surprise me at all.”
Harman is a big sports fan and is actually right-handed for other activities. Golf is the only activity he does left-handed. He is married to wife Kelly and they have three children. His hobbies include fishing and hunting.
His amateur career gave every indication he would enjoy success as a professional. His standout win was the 2003 US Junior Championship. He followed that with winning the 2005 Players’ Amateur. He also played in the winning 2005 and 2009 Walker Cup and 2007 Palmer Cup teams.
He turned professional in 2009 and had to wait until 2014 for his first PGA Tour win at the John Deere Classic although his first professional win was at the Manor Classic in 2010.
Diminutive physically at 5ft 7in and 70kgs, Harman is one golfer who plays way above his weight.
The sport of golf has proved to be a big hit with young novice players in the central North Island’s Rangitikei district who are flocking to the fairways in unprecedented numbers.
Buoyed by the phenomenal success of the region’s first Have A Go entry-level participation programme which has just concluded at Taihape Golf Club, three more events have been scheduled in for school-age youngsters in the region.
The inaugural six-week introductory golf programme held at Taihape Golf Club saw some 22 Taihape Area School pupils aged between 10 and 17 years learning
how to drive, chip and putt their way around the course’s greens and fairways.
Organised by Golf New Zealand, in conjunction with Sport Wanganui Tu Manawa and Rangitikei District Council, the youngsters spent one day a week picking up insightful golf coaching tips from volunteers affiliated to Taihape Golf Club.
The coaching collaboration comprised Cory Martin, Jason Fellingham, and Jeremy Gilbert – whose employer Hautapu Pine allowed him time off to be involved with the project.
Trophies were awarded at the conclusion of the six-
week programme – with Jamie Bell winning the cup for most improved player, and Ardijah Rewa taking home the silverware for most dedicated player. The trophies were generously donated by Morries Framing and Hobbies in Wanganui.
Following on from the success of the Taihape golf participation initiative, three other schools in the district have asked for similar programmes to be run in their locations.
As a result, Golf New Zealand regional coordinator Janette Smith has set up training programmes at Marton Golf Club, Rangatira Golf Club in Bulls, and the Hawkestone Golf Club in Halcombe.
Said Smith: “The Taihape programme was dipping our toes in the water to see how a golf participation school programme would be welcomed in the area.
“The numbers who signed up far exceeded our expectations – with 10 of the children being awarded Golf New Zealand memberships allowing them to continue on with the sport and receive ongoing coaching once a week.
“Whether the kids stay in the sport purely for the love of the game and the friendships which come from that in the years to come, or they decide to take up golf on a competitive level, at the end of the day it’s all about getting outdoors, getting in some healthy exercise, and most importantly, having fun.”
Zack Swanwick defended his under 19 boys’ title at the New Zealand Age Group Championships which were held at the Timaru Golf Club last month.
While Swanwick stole the show with an impressive performance, Grace Zhan, Ryan Xie, and Sophie Yu played extraordinarily well to take out the under 19 girls’, under 16 boys’ and under 16 girls’ titles respectively.
Swanwick seemed unstoppable, shooting a scintillating six-under 66, which included a hole-in-one to finish 11 under par for the tournament after shooting 70 and 69 in the first two rounds.
He began the day a shot ahead of Ryan Rooney and Daniel Freeman but never looked in his rearview mirror, opening with a birdie at the second before hitting the perfect shot on the fourth for an ace. He finished his opening nine with consecutive birdies at eight and nine to build a sizeable lead that wouldn’t be challenged.
The Napier Golf Club member made eight pars and a birdie at 13 to win his second under 19 title on the trot in his last national age group championship, a feat he was incredibly proud of given the adversity he and his hometown of Napier have faced this year with cyclone Gabrielle.
“It’s a bit of a relief – especially with all the flooding back home in Napier,’’ Swanwick said.
“I haven’t been able to practise that much, and to win back-to-back titles at my last New Zealand Age Group Championship is pretty special.
“It was a weird walk down the 18th today. I’ve been playing this event since I was playing in the under 13 division, so to sign off like this is amazing.”
He said the hole-in-one on the fourth for his third career ace was icing on the cake.
“Honestly, it was one of the worst struck shots I hit all day, and it went in,” Swanwick said with a laugh.
“I didn’t actually know how to react. I just put my hands up and hugged Ryan [Rooney].”
Swanwick was to enjoy a break while he caught up on his school studies before heading back overseas for more competitive golf at the end of the year.
Brodie Ferguson finished second following a 66 of his own on the final day, while Rooney took out the bronze medal.
Playing in the group in front of him was Grace Zhan, who overcame a twoshot deficit to win the under 19 girls’ title in clinical fashion.
She shot 73 and 72 to trail Amy Han by a couple at one-under-par and shot another 72 on the final day to get the job done.
She immediately made up ground on the leader with a birdie at the first and made eight straight pars to finish her opening nine to take sole possession of the lead, which she would relinquish.
Zhan made further birdies at 12 and 13 but dropped shots at 14 and 15, but steadied the ship with three straight
pars to finish.
She said it was a fantastic feeling to get over the line.
“It’s pretty surreal,’’ Zhan said.
“Amy was obviously two shots ahead of me, so I made sure I went into today with a chill mindset and took it one shot at a time. I’m glad it paid off for me today.
“It’s a big relief. Especially when my ball landed on the 18th – my heart immediately stopped racing.”
Like Swanwick, she also hit a perfect shot on the fourth hole the day before for her third ace.
“I hit a six iron from 168 yards; I actually didn’t see it go in. I just hit it, and I knew it was a good shot, so I looked away. I heard some people yelling and screaming, and they told me it went in. I couldn’t believe it.”
Amy Han finished second, while Sumin Kang and Jackie Jang finished third.
The under 16 boys’ championship
was also tight, with Ryan Xie prevailing by three over the defending champion Cooper Moore.
Xie began the last day’s final round a shot ahead of Moore following rounds of 69 and 68 to sit seven under for the championship. He opened his final round with nine straight pars to enter the back nine tied with Moore as the defending champ went out in one under.
Unfortunately, Moore made a costly triple bogey seven on the 14th to fall two behind Xie, which he couldn’t claw back. Xie birdied the 16th to pull three clear with two to play and just needed to avoid disaster to claim the title.
The New Zealand Open qualifier learned from his experience last year, where he fell just short, making two solid pars to get over the line.
Xie says he was exceptionally proud of his effort.
“I played really well today, and I’m stoked to finish the job.
“I focussed on hitting one shot at a time – every time I faced a bit of adversity, I told myself not to panic. I really trusted my game and tried my best right until the very end. It’s incredible to win. I can’t describe it.
“I’ve been working really hard on my game; I’ve been practising a lot and just trying to get better every day.”
Finally, Sophie Yu couldn’t be caught in the under 16 girls’ section to claim her first national championship.
Yu shot consistent rounds of 76, 70, and 73 on the par 73 layout to win by five over New Zealand Maori Golf champion Hunter Edwards.
Yu made four birdies and four bogeys to shoot a solid round of even, a round she’s proud of, given she slept with the lead.
“I’m really pleased to win the national under 16 girls’ title – it’s a very prestigious event, and I’m really happy I won,’’ Yu said.
“I got off to a great start, which eased my nerves. I just tried to focus on my own game after that, which seemed to work. I played really well, and I’m really happy.”
By Neville Idour
Seven New Zealanders have earned an invite to play in the 2023 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club from October 2629.
The champion will receive an invitation to compete in the 2024 United States Masters at Augusta and The 152nd Open at Royal Troon in England. The runner(s)-up will gain a place in final qualifying for The Open.
The seven players with their world rankings are Kazuma Kobori (30), Sam Jones (124), Jayden Ford (167), Joshua Bai (202), Zack Swanwick (245), Jimmy Zheng (261), Mako Thompson (426). Kobori is keen to add this title to his stable after earning starts on the PGA and Korn Ferry Tours next year.
The event will be played on the world leading composite course at Royal Melbourne. Over the 14-year history the event has delivered such world top players as Hideki Matsuyama, Cameron Smith, Ryan Fox, Lucas Herbert, Si Woo Kim and Min Woo Lee.
Rising sea levels are endangering the continued existence of the 14th hole, which is parallel to the sea, at Amberley Golf Club, north of Christchurch.
With a membership of 220 and around 4000 visiting players each year, access to the course is very
much threatened.
The only access is by a dusty road that runs parallel to the beach. In recent years the road has flooded regularly from high stormy tides.
The club desperately needs a new road but the options present challenges. The Hurunui District Council wants a road north of the course which would lengthen the drive to the course by 2.5km, cut off (remove use of) the 14th hole and require modification of two other holes, not a popular thought. Club president Bruce Yates said it was “totally ridiculous.”
The club would prefer a road south of the course where the fairway would not be affected. Unfortunately there is a 30-metre strip of wetland in the centre of where the road would be.
There are environment rules from 2020 in place severely restricting works in or near wetlands. The council, which has had issues with Environment Canterbury previously, believes there is virtually no chance of this happening.
However, one possibility is that a culvert may be sufficient to protect the wetland. So the club is following this up with the regional council. The alternative is not a pleasant thought -- 16 holes and how do we conjure up 18 from those 16?
Billy Horschel’s love affair with the PGA Championship at Wentworth in England is clearly not shared by his fellow PGA Tour players.
However, he has mixed feelings about having too many Americans flooding the tournament as it would keep some Europeans from playing their own event. Still he said: “I would love to see more Americans playing here.”
Horschel won the event in 2021, the only American to do so since Arnold Palmer. This year was his fourth time playing and he said: “It feels like I have been coming to this tournament for much longer as I grew up watching it on TV and always wanted to be a part of it.
“When I finally made it in 2019 my high expectations were exceeded. Everything about it impressed me. I would be a very happy man if I could play this event 25 times a year.”
After two impressive wins in a month and a fourth in the PGA Championship in New York, it is understandable Bryson DeChambeau was disappointed to miss out on a captain’s pick for the Ryder Cup. He said it would have been nice if he and one or two other fellow LIV players (read Dustin Johnson) had at least received a call from captain Zack Johnson.
DeChambeau’s final round 63 at Chicago was reminiscent of his record breaking, almost unbelievable final round 58 the previous month in the Greenbrier. Playing some of the best golf of his career he admitted missing the Ryder Cup “stings a little bit.
“I understand, I get it, but we are no different. We are still competing and working hard, doing our best. We are still golfers.”
However Johnson dismissed his feelings saying he was too far down the points list to warrant a call. His wins simply didn’t count, even for a captain’s pick. Some players who missed out, including Keegan Bradley, did warrant a phone call.
Strangely almost, DeChambeau’s reaction after his latest win was quite refreshing and endearing. He said he was left with “a huge mix of emotions.”
Why? He said he was rooting for teammate Anirban Lahiri to make a putt so they could battle it out in a playoff. ”I was actually sad.”
Lahiri was seeking his first win in eight years.
Ahead of the Asia-Pacific Amateur, the 33rd world amateur Eisenhower Trophy will be held in Abu Dhabi from October 18-21. The team is Kazuma Kobori (Rangiora), Sam Jones (Manaia) and Jayden Ford (Judgeford). This team looks capable of a good showing with recent form a positive indicator.
A week later, Fiona Xu (Titirangi), Vivian Lu (Royal Auckland/Grange) and Eunsio Choi (Takapuna) will be in action from October 25-28. The team, which is backing up from 2022, will be hoping to use that experience to produce results.
World class golf will make a welcome return to Macau this month.
Following a six-year absence from the calendar, the Macao Open will celebrate its 20th edition at the Macau Golf and Country Club from October 12-15.
Rising Australian star Min Woo Lee will be one of the headline names in the 144-strong field for the $US1 million event that will act as the 18th leg of the 2023 Asian Tour.
Cho Minn Thant, Asian Tour chief executive and com-
missioner, said: “The return of the Macao Open is hugely significant for the Asian Tour, as it has played such an important role in our history for over two decades.
“Our members are excited to see it back on the schedule and look forward to turning out in force to soak up the atmosphere of competing in this special event.’’
Among those looking to add their name to the roll of honour that includes European Ryder Cup heroes Lee Westwood and Colin Montgomerie is Lee from Australia.
Lee, 25, a younger brother of LPGA star Minjee Lee,
said: “This will be my first time competing in the SJM Macao Open and I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve heard so many great things about the event and the venue. Hopefully I’ll be able to add my name to the illustrious list of winners.”
Charles Lo, president of Macao Golf Association, said: “After a lapse of five years, the return of Macao Open is something we’re all looking forward to tremendously. The tournament will certainly provide a huge boost to the local golf industry.”
Linn Grant of Sweden has made an immediate impact on the LPGA Tour after winning the Dana Open in July, in just her fourth start on the tour.
Freed from the covid-19 restrictions for the unvaccinated she could finally join the tour in May. She wasted no time making an impact and is now a regular starter.
She graduated from Arizona State in the United States in 2021 and has enjoyed a remarkable rise in two years to 15th in the world rankings. As well as being the first female winner on the DP World Tour at the Volvo Scandinavian Mixed last year, her win at the Dana Open was her ninth as a professional.
It should not surprise that she has a great pedigree. She has clearly inherited her love of and talent for golf. Her grandfather James Grant was a Scottish golf professional, while her father John played on the Scottish Tour.
Her amateur career bears some scrutiny. She began her golfing path as a 12-year-old and made progress until, as an 18-year-old, she won the Annika Invitational, earning her an exemption into the Ladies European Tour (LET) qualifying school.
She won the 2020 Uppsala Open and the Swedish Matchplay Championship on the Nordic Golf Tour. She notched four wins for Arizona State University in 2021 with three of them in succession and was a two-time All American winner.
Also in 2021 she won the Women’s British Open Amateur and the European Ladies’ Amateur and turned professional in August. She reached second in the world amateur rankings at one stage.
After earning her LPGA Tour card she still could only play the Ladies’ European Tour and was rookie of the year in 2022, winning her first title at the Joburg Ladies’ Open. For more than four years she has had long time boyfriend and accomplished golfer Pontus Samuelson as her caddie and that “special someone’’ who has supported her through this amazing journey in life.
Apparently their relationship dates back to high school days. However Samuelson has many golf achievements and led his college to a runner-up position in the South Atlantic Conference Championship in 2021. At university he is majoring in business administration/economics and that has meant an end to his caddie duties for the present so he can concentrate on his career.
Grant said about the separation: “Feelings are a bit mixed. Boring, of course, not being able to travel together every week and experience everything together.”
Her feelings toward the new step were typically positive “to start working with someone who is already a professional caddie.”
However what is obvious is their loving relationship as golf and life partners and friends who are always there for each other.
Grant exudes everything that is good about golf and golfers. Always a model of decorum on and off the course she is clearly a delight to interview. She always seems calm and collected on course whatever shot she hits and plays her shots without undue delay. Certainly the perfect example for youngsters to follow.
Just as importantly when it comes to playing the game and other associated things Grant has always been mature enough to make her own decisions. As far as a coach goes she is said to have been coached by her Arizona State Sun Devils’ coach Missy Farr-Kaye who expressed her delight when Grant won the Dana Open. It is unclear if Farr-Kaye is still closely involved in a coaching role.
Whatever the case, her game reflects
her persona and her ability to make her own decisions. No one tells her what to do. She said when interviewed following her win: “I have always made my own decisions since the start of my career.”
This is not meant in an arrogant way, but simply that she weighs up what her coach/caddie or whoever offers or is asked for their thoughts. Then she will make her own decision as to what she thinks is best.
Another aspect of her life that sings praises to her loyalty is her involvement with her home club and school in Sweden and young ones wherever she goes. She is already giving back as a natural course to follow. Golf needs players like Grant to inspire and teach young girls and boys the way to go.
We will conclude with her thoughts going into the final round at the Dana with a nine shot lead.
“I think for me I just really have to go out with a plan, as I did on days one, two and three. In my mind I’m still thinking that someone could come from behind and shoot a nine under. So in my head I still had to shoot two or three under today.”
She did better than that. She shot three under par and never gave the field a sniff.
Cameron Smith of Australia will top the bill when Hong Kong’s most illustrious golf event makes its much-anticipated return to the Hong Kong Golf Club (HKGC) next month.
It is four years since the last staging of the Hong Kong Open and the Hong Kong Golf Club – the tournament’s traditional home – will welcome an elite line up from November 9-12 with the historic event joining the Asian Tour’s burgeoning International Series for the first time.
The 62nd edition of the Hong Kong Open, one of only two events in the sport’s history to be hosted at the same venue for more than six decades – alongside the Masters at Augusta in the United States – has already drawn some heavy hitters with organisers confirming the appearance of Smith, last year’s Open winner.
Also confirmed are reigning Hong Kong Open champion Wade Ormsby, and local hero Taichi Kho, helping to ensure a stellar edition of the city’s oldest professional sporting event.
With International Series status, a $US2 million purse, and a chance to etch one’s name in golf history on the
line, the likes of Smith, Orsmby and Kho promise to be the tip of the iceberg with Hong Kong fans set to witness what could be the most competitive field in tournament history.
Smith, who finished tied ninth at the Fanling venue in his sole Asian Tour season in 2014, said: “I’m excited to be returning to Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Open. I really enjoyed my time in the city and playing the course as a young pro, and I look forward to coming back now to take care of some unfinished business.”
Andy Kwok, captain of the Hong Kong Golf Club, said: “We can’t wait to welcome back world-class golfers and fans from the Greater Bay Area and beyond for the 62nd edition of the Hong Kong Open at Fanling.
“This historic championship, the oldest professional sporting event in Hong Kong, always captures the imagination and we are delighted to say that the 2023 edition is going to be bigger and better than ever before.”
Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO, Asian Tour, said: “The Asian Tour is pleased to welcome the return of the Hong Kong Open to our growing cham-
pionship calendar. We are especially excited to feature this historic championship as one of the events on our ground-breaking International Series.
“With last year’s Open Championship winner Cam Smith, prolific Fanling champion Wade Ormsby and Hong Kong’s first ever Asian Tour winner Taichi Kho already signed on, it’s exciting to see the Hong Kong Open returning bigger and better than ever before.”
Ormsby, currently fourth in the International Series order of merit, will return to the scene of his triumph in January, 2020, when he became the last player to lift the Hong Kong Open trophy before the global pandemic altered plans everywhere.
The 43-year-old Australian won the International Series Thailand in March and continues to be among the Asian Tour’s most consistent stars as he prepares for a crack at his third Hong Kong Open crown, to go with that win in 2020 and his victory at Fanling in 2017.
Australians have a rich history at the Hong Kong Open – an event that dates back to 1959 – with compatriots that have conquered Fanling including
legends Peter Thomson (1960, 1965, 1967), Greg Norman (1979, 1983), and Kel Nagle (1961).
Scott Hend, tied third for the most Asian Tour wins of all time with 10 victories, also won at Fanling in 2014, the year Smith participated, as well as Sam Brazel in 2016.
Smith knows that history – and wants a slice of it himself. The 2022 Open Championship winner has been in redhot form across the LIV Golf season so far with two individual titles. There has also been a third at this year’s US Open as the 29-year-old has grown his game globally, much like the International Series itself.
This year’s Hong Kong Open also promises to be a celebration of the rise of golf in the city as Hong Kong’s emerging generation of stars continue to make their mark on the global game. Leading the way is Kho, whose history-making victory at the World City Championship, presented by the Hong Kong Golf Club, in March made him the first player from the city to win on the Asian Tour.
More women’s golf on television and lifestyle content on photo and video social networks Instagram and TikTok could attract more female customers to clubs and courses, research from Syngenta and Ipsos has found.
Syngenta published a study titled Golf & Social Media: Engaging Women, part of a landmark study analysing 16.1 million social media posts, shares, comments and blogs over a three-year period to help golf businesses understand what is being said about golf online.
Despite recent increases in both the number and proportion of women golfers, social media continues to reflect some of golf’s long-term challenges in attracting women, the study found, including a lack of visibility and feminine content, as well as blatant misogyny.
Challenges were particularly acute when attracting female golfers from minority communities.
Claire Martin, Ipsos social intelligence researcher, said: “Online, golf has the image of a white, male dominated sport. There’s low visibility of women’s golf, on social media and television and, as a result, women feel left out.
“You don’t see women professional players and tournaments on television to the same degree as other women’s sports. While some brand ambassadors and celebrities who endorse golf brands are visible, it’s limited and tends to reach the existing golf community, not a wider public audience.
“There’s also some misogyny online, and offline at the course, making women feel unwelcome and excluded from the golf community.”
In addition to greater visibility, solutions include greater femininity in content, recognising women golfers and new players want different experiences to men, as well as better promotion of opportunities to start golf.
The study found that a lifestyle-themed approach using Instagram and TikTok, with posts and hashtags relating to women’s golf, was among the most effective solutions.
Mark Birchmore, Syngenta global head of marketing, turf and landscape, who commissioned the report, said: “The findings chime with earlier market research into the $US35 billion a year economic opportunity to increase female participation.
“Our 2014 study found that 10 percent of non-golfers became interested in new sports by seeing them on television.
“Since then, the perception and popularity of women’s football and cricket have developed rapidly thanks to a potent combination of television and social media amplification.
“Channels such as Instagram and TikTok are used as key points in the customer journey to determine whether a golfing experience is suitable for them or not, and so if that content does not exist, golf will lose prospective customers to other more attractive sports and experiences.
“Events such as the Solheim Cup represent a significant opportunity for female golf, as does the finding that relevant lifestyle and experience-focused content on Instagram and TikTok can reach much larger female audiences than are currently being achieved.
“There is a real and present opportunity for golf to attract new female golfers to the game with the right content on the right channels.”
The China Open has been confirmed as the final piece in The International Series jigsaw for 2023.
Boasting a prize purse of $US1.5 million, the iconic event will take place from November 2-5 at Shenzhen’s Hidden Grace Golf Club – formerly known as Genzon Golf Club.
The China Open will act as the eighth leg of The International Series – 10 top tier events sanctioned by the Asian Tour. The Hong Kong Open will follow a week later with the Indonesian Masters bringing down the curtain on the 2023 campaign from November 16-19.
The China showpiece will also mark a welcome return to the world’s most populous country for the Asian Tour, following a four-year drought. The Asian Tour’s last visit there was for the China Open in 2019.
Cho Minn Thant, the Asian Tour commissioner and chief executive, said: “We are thrilled to have the Volvo China Open back on our schedule. It will be our first visit to China since before the pandemic and I know our members are excited to be able to return there after such a long lay-off.
“Our thanks go to the China Golf Association (CGA), Volvo and the staff and management at Hidden Grace Golf Club.”
Zhang Xiaoning, president of the China Golf Association, said: “The Volvo China Open has consistently set the benchmark for tournament golf in China. It is a pioneering event that has made outstanding contributions to the development of golf in our country.
“This year will be no exception as the tournament has been upgraded to a stop on The International Series, and it will play a key role in preparations for the Paris Olympics after the Hangzhou Asian Games, which we are now focusing on.”
Cheng Jun was the first Chinese player to win the China Open in 1997. Other home players to have won their national open are Zhang Lianwei (2003), Wu Ashun (2015) and Li Haotong (2016).
The victories of Zhang Huilin (2020) and Zhang Jin (2021) were both achieved when the event was solely part of the domestic China Tour.
Michel Zhao, chairperson of China Open nboard, said: “The return of the
Volvo China Open will be one of the highlights of the 2023 season, and will attract a global audience. We welcome fans and lovers of the game to watch the top players from the Asian Tour and China Tour competing in one of the region’s most prestigious national Opens.”
The tournament is the longest running professional golf tournament on the Chinese mainland.
Among the famous names inscribed on the China Open trophy are Korean Yang Yong-eun, Asia’s first major championship winner, and European Ryder Cup players Paul Casey of England and Belgium’s Nicolas Colsaerts.
With the winner of The International Series order of merit earning a lucrative starting spot in next year’s LIV Golf League, the China Open will play an important part in determining who that player is.
Following last month’s St Andrews Bay Championship in Scotland, the sixth leg of the 2023 International Series, American Andy Ogletree enjoys a handsome advantage atop the standings, almost $US500,000 ahead of Ja-
pan’s Takumi Kanaya in second spot.
The International Series Singapore at Tanah Merah Country Club from October 5-8 will act as the seventh leg of this year’s series.
Rahul Singh, head of The International Series, said: “We’re delighted that the Volvo China Open will form part of the 2023 International Series.
“This year’s schedule has already included stops in Oman, Qatar, Thailand, Vietnam, England and Scotland. We look forward to completing The International Series 2023 with a very strong finish, as we round out the season with visits to Singapore, China, Hong Kong and Indonesia.
“At the outset, one of the stated intentions was to make this a truly international series. These locations illustrate that we have taken another step forward in delivering on our ambitions.”
The China Open was held at Hidden Grace Golf Club in 2014, 2019, 2020 and 2021, meaning this year will mark the fifth occasion the club has hosted the tournament.
Be part of the most dynamic and entertaining sport of the 21st Century. Xtreme Drivers League is set to expand worldwide propelled by XDL software being made available for both commercial and personal use. The sport of XDL stems from Long Drive which is likened to Golf (XDL ain’t Golf) and the mission to identify the sport as high-performance was achieved by founder Olna Ford. The year 2024 represents the sports continued growth and we want you to be part of it wherever you are in the world.
The list is growing, and we want staff for all positions from February 2024. Contractors, full time and part time required from management positions to grid workers. XDL is about to expand business activities like never before.
Whatever your passion, you will love our sports environment. XDL is looking for self motivated, DRIVEN personalities to fill our roles and support our athletes all around the nation and
world who are desperate for more XDL events.
The year 2024 represents a rebirth of the sport and the brands associated with XDL. Be part of sports history as XDL continues to thrive. The party at the tee is about to begin and we invite you all to attend.
Interested in working with us on any level email us via our website: www.xdlworldwide.com
Xtreme Drivers League founder and CEO-Olna Ford, is our first spot-light champion. Driven from a lifetime of achievements, her passion for Long Drive sport and the players has been obvious from day one, which dates back to 2016 at the first IGANZ celebrity golf tournament. Olna sponsored two international long drivers to NZ to showcase their talents and the rest is history. Olna is now famous within the sport, becoming the first National Sports Organisation in the world. She was congratulated by government and sports authorities for her commitment and investment to sport. Olna has organised 34 events in 8 countries, paid out the largest purse in Long Drive history and is known as a philanthropist. Owner of two national teams the New Zealand Long Blacks and Aussie Long Ballers, she forecasted her brands to be at the core of a growing sports empire so invested in Intellectual Property around the sport and teams early on. Olna is excited for the upcoming 2024 season given the plans to launch XDL trailers, Drive Zones, XDL virtual systems and a whole range of products and services to grow the sport and looks to revolutionise the game with a series of plans worldwide.
Colleen Mills of Les Mills and at the age 15 yrs, she became the youngest fitness instructor for the group. Olna’s modeling career includes 12 beauty pageant title wins, with her true claim to fame being crowned for New Zealand at a Donald Trump beauty pageant world final, in the Bahamas. Olna’s name is listed in the pageant history books as the first and only New Zealander crowned in this prestigious event and her name resides at the famous Beverly Hills Hotel in the VIP guest book. Traveling the world, mixing with the rich and famous, made her a visionary thinker. Sponsored as an ultra endurance athlete put her in the limelight where she was sponsored by the most known brands in the world such as Nike, Puma, Adidas, Oakley, Speedo, Ray Ban to name a few. Olna’s last record breaking career event was at Arnold Schwarzennegers fitness weekend in Columbus Ohio, USA. Olna ran 24 hours solo on a treadmill to break her own world record. Known as the voice of Joe Weider’s radio commercials and TVC’s Australasia, she also landed a five year contract as the face, body and voice of all Contours Ladies Health and Fitness Studios, NZ & AU, appearing on magazine covers, billboards and commercials. She sold 13 gyms over two trade shows weekends, profiting Contours over 7 million in franchise sales. Olna went on to be project manager and traveled extensively for the group.
is designer and owner of the XDL Grid that is ready on the virtual system with OPTISHOT. These will be seen in 2024 to increase participation. The biggest event for the sport is making an official launch this December with a celebration and commercial shoot for the teams and champions of the sport.
XDL has proven its DRIVE time and time again. The future of this sport is bright and with XDL at the forefront, the players are set to have the best season yet with XDL Australia announced.
2024 will be the start of the three year growth plan globally for the sport of Xtreme Drivers League.
Expect to be entertained beyond the tee as Olna has products to engage the public and equally train XDL athletes. Xtreme Driving isn’t Golf yet XDL organically promotes the game. With a strong focus on regional and state events with clubs, XDL will have on-road promotions including school programs. Olna
The Coromandel has announced a new initiative to help bring back their visitors. The Paradise Coast Golf Classic in December will run across three courses. The Lakes Resort, Pauanui, Tairua Golf Club and Whangamata between the 1/12 and the 3/12. Originated by Enterprise Whangamata and supported by council grants and courses, it’s believed to be the first Triangle Tournament on the Coromandel. Tournament Director, Josh Alderton is excit-
ed. “The first 2 courses are so different - Lakes Resort, Pauanui and Tairua. Resort- Country. And then these us, Whangamata on finals day. I’m fascinated to see how each golfer handles those different conditions.”
The Paradise Coast Golf Classic is hoped will grow to become a regular tournament on the calendar and is open to any registered golfer. Max Handicap, Women 40. Men 27.
The tournament has great local support from the clubs and their local council Thames Coromandel District Council (TCDC). Other events are also being funded all over the Coromandel as they wait for repairs to 25A to be com-
pleted. Hopefully, March ’24. The PCGC is limited to just 120 players the first year and the early bird price of $150 is on till October 29. To enter, go to www.whangamata.org.nz
Origins of Paradise Coast: This area of the Coromandel is officially called- The South Eastern Ward. Nice. In 2017 community councillors got together and with grants created the brand ‘The Paradise Coast’. For many and various reasons this hasn’t progressed that far but it sure is a great name for a golf tournament.
For more details and to enter see www.whangamata.org.nz or phone Shaun Fay 0279317157.
Three of the Coromandel’s top golf courses – The Lakes Resort, Pauanui, Tairua Golf and Country Club and Titoki, Whangamata –have joined together to create an exciting new golf tournament. The Paradise Coast Golf Classic is designed to bring you back to the coast you love playing the game you adore.
For more details and to enter go to: www.whangamata.org.nz
Dates: Friday 1st, Saturday 2nd, Sunday 3rd December.
Format: Gross, Net and Stableford - Twos. Max Men 27, Max Women 40. Cost: $150 till October 29.
What happens: Dec 1 - 60 play The Lakes-Pauanui and 60 play Tairua. Dec 2 - These 60 players swap. Dec 3 - Finals Day at Whangamata.
Prizes: Over $4,000 worth of prizes. Fri-Sat daily prizes, Sun finals.
Thanks: Enterprise Whangamata, TCDC, NZ Golf Numbers limited to 120 people.
Book now. $150. Bank Acc: 02 1254 0008998 00. REF: PCGC.
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Apex UW: A go-to option for Tour players. The unique profile promotes the launch and distance benefits of our high lofted fairway woods, the versatility of Callaway hybrids, along with a more neutral ball flight. It’s a multi-purpose offering that better players can use with confidence off the tee into tight landing areas, out of the fairway into Par-5s, or from the rough.
For more information visit www.au.callawaygolf.com
With stunning vistas and memorable golf and hospitality, it’s a day you won’t forget.
The Links Course is not long, but rarely conquered. It comprises one par 5, eight par 4 and nine par 3 holes, including two double greens and a triple green via major elevation changes, with ocean, ponds, cliffs, penal bunkering or roughs encircling the greens. The Mountain Course is a significantly more difficult challenge and not for the faint hearted.
Visit www.onekakalinks.com for a course guide also incorporating drone
footage of the course and testimonials of visiting players. We also have a Facebook page which is regularly updated. The green fee of $60 per head for 18 holes for a minimum of four players covers:
* Exclusive use – no other players on the course that day
* Golf cart and electric trundlers, laser distance finder
* A course guide – the course designer and club champion
* Hosted free drinks and snacks after the round
Although a private course, it’s open to visitors 364 days a year. However, to enable hosting arrangements bookings must be made at least two weeks in advance to chris@widespread.co.nz
“Golden Bay is full of amazing things to see and I just discovered another. If you play golf, Onekaka Links is a must visit. I have played golf all around the world and Onekaka gave me more fun and challenging shots than most courses that have hosted major championships. Your host Chris Castle with great imagination has created a wonderful course on a spectacular property. Thank you Chris, for a day to remember.”
- Kindest Regards, Bill Mackenzie (PGA Professional, St. Andrews East Golf Club, Canada)
“Onekaka Links is one of the most special New Zealand golf experiences one could have - it really is a must play for anyone who loves dramatic golf and out
of the box thinking. You have three or four green-sites that would rival the very best in New Zealand. I will be sending more people your way for sure.
You really chose all the best green sites to maximize your property. Your green in the far coastal corner of the property does this so well. The triple green with the bunker and lower green level and water hazard. It is the interest you created that is so much fun. Onekaka can’t fit inside a box and it should not be contained by the world’s idea of a routing and par. It is just an awesome place to play golf.
You and Richard Barham have done such an amazing job with your property - really impressive stuff. If you ever end up doing that new green we discussed
drop a me line and I may try to volunteer some shovel time for you if the timing works!
Thank you again and it was so kind of you to host me there. “
- CJ Kreuscher, Director of Agronomy for Te Arai Links and the original Superintendent of Tara iti, who recently played both courses.
“Great day out at the Onekaka Links in Golden Bay. Stunning scenery. Some exciting holes and wonderful hospitality. It’s a very unique offering but lots of fun and risk and reward. Wonderful hospitality from President Chris Castle and Club Captain Linda Sanders. Highly recommended. “
- Barry Johnston, Wanaka
Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South Island and one of a very few in New Zealand
The 2023 Auckland Men’s Masters was played recently at Clarks beach golf Club. Ben Westgate, who secured victory with impressive rounds of 67 and 71 for a total score of 138!
Jack Van Prehn and Eunseo Choi have come from behind to win the Bay of Plenty Open (BOP) Open played recently at Whakatane Golf Club.
Both trailed Nathan Clark and Faith Vui
by a shot heading into the 36-hole final day, which presented ideal scoring conditions for the 57 players who made the cut.
Van Prehn came out of the gates quickly, taking advantage of the calm early morning conditions, making five birdies and a couple of bogeys to shoot a third round of 67 and lead by five heading into the afternoon’s final round. Choi carded a third round 77 after opening with 73 and 76 to remain a shot behind Vui and New Zealand Maori Golf champion Hunter Edwards at seven-over-par.
The final round became a battle against the conditions as the Whakatane winds picked up over the afternoon.
Van Prehn and overnight leader Clark, who is looking for his second victory in as many weeks, traded jabs over the opening nine, with the Cambridge Classic winner reducing the deficit to two with nine holes to play. Van Prehn made a critical birdie at 10 to increase his lead by five as Clark dropped a shot and managed his
way back to the clubhouse to secure his maiden victory by two.
Van Prehn says he’s elated to get over the line.
“I started off quite nervy, but I knew I was chasing and had some ground to make up. Once I got the lead, it was just about staying there.
“Nathan and I had the best battle out there I’ve had in my life. He put a lot of pressure on me, but it was good to experience. It feels pretty good to win. I’ve had a couple of close calls that I thought could’ve gone my way but didn’t, so it’s great that it has finally happened.”
Van Prehn finished three over with rounds of 69, 72, 67, and 75. Clark finished second, with Isaac Steel and Trent Munn sharing third.
In the women’s event, New Zealand Espritio Santo Trophy winner Eunseo Choi prevailed by two after a final round of one over, finishing eight-over-par for the tournament.
She started poorly in her final round
with a bogey at the first but hung tough for the remainder of her opening nine, going out in two over to match Vui in the lead with nine holes to go.
Vui took sole possession of the lead after a birdie at 12, but a costly bogey at 16 as Choi birdied, meant she fell a shot behind with two to play. They both birdied the 17th, and a par up the last was enough for Choi to seal a come-from-behind victory, which she’s pleased with following a rollercoaster final day.
“It was really chaotic; lots of up and downs and I really got to know myself on the course today. I tried to be more aggressive than conservative, which was hard as the wind was really strong for most of the day. It was tough for me to stay in the moment.
“I feel really honoured [to win]; I haven’t played any domestic events for a long time, and for this to be my first event and to get the win is awesome. I grew up playing this event with others like Darae Chung and Fiona Xu, so to have watched them win and now I have done it, it’s pretty cool.”
Vui finished second, while Rianne Li and Hunter Edwards shared third.
MICHELLE ARCHER (WAIKATO)
WINS THE TARANAKI WOMEN’S MASTERS
Michelle Archer (Waikare Golf Club) won the Taranaki Women’s Masters which was played recently at Fitzroy and New Plymouth Golf Clubs.
Michelle was in a dominant mood from the start, with a first round 72 to open up a 2 shot lead over Jill Morgan 74 (Cambridge Golf Club) and Alison Glover (Ngaruawahia Golf Club) a further shot back on 75.
With Michelle firing a superb 75 in the second round it was always going to be
tough to catch her as she cruised to a comfortable victory.
The top three places being occupied by Waikato players, Michelle Archer 1st, Jill Morgan 2nd and Alison Glover 3rd.
KAITAKE GOLF CLUB’S BRODIE FERGUSON WAS THE WINNER OF THE WESTOWN CUP
Kaitake Golf Club’s Brodie Ferguson was the winner of the Westown Cup by 4 shots which was played recently with rounds of 72, 70
Manawatu Golf Club celebrated a victory in the Handicap Pennants played at the Feilding Golf Club recently.. Manawatu showcasing their prowess on the greens. Facing tough competition from the Marton Golf Club, Manawatu’s golfers exhibited great teamwork, clinching the championship with a mixture of young and seasoned players. This win not only underscores Manawatu’s commitment to the sport but also underscores their camaraderie and skill. As cheers no doubt echo across the club, their Handicap Pennants success enters them back into the winners circle for 2023.
In a thrilling showcase of golfing prowess, the Joe Kells Memorial and Ladies Classic 36-hole golf tournament concluded recently with Ryan Rooney and Tara Raj emerging as the victorious champions. The two-day event, held at the Palmerston North Golf Club brought together a field of varied golfers to compete for the Joe Kells, which has been played since 1939.
Feilding Golf Club member Ryan Rooney’s consistent performance and composure held steady to clinch the men’s title with a 75/74. Rooney showcased why he’s considered one of the rising stars in the Manawatu Wanganui district, if not the country taking out his second trophy win in the past 3 months. The Manawatu Wanganui Strokeplay played in May was his other title win. Regan McConaghty stayed steady with a 75/76 to hold onto 2nd place. Sam Nichols from the home club coming in 3rd and Rhys Harold of Pongaroa placing 4th shooting 73/78 and 72/79 respectively. Akarana’s Kaleb Idemaru shot 78/77 to finish with 5th place. Youngster and one to look for in the future, William Dunsmore of the Levin Golf Club placed sixth with a 79/77 - 156.
On the women’s side, Tara Raj’s consistency and finesse were on full display, as she navigated the course. Raj’s strategic play and remarkable short game secured her a well-deserved victory, further solidifying her reputation as one of the leading female golfers in the region. Raj’s 73/75 held off her sister Sera Raj by 2 shots. Sera finishing with a 78/72. Manawatu Golf Clubs Casey Chettleburgh finished with 77/73 and Hawkes Bays Tessa McDonald 7 shots back with an 80/77 - 157. Clare Choi of Maraenui carded a n 88/82 to finish 5th place. 6th place went to another Junior player Zara Lynch finishing with 86/87.
The tournament’s format, spanning two days and 36 holes, tested the players’ physical stamina and mental resilience. The players battled a rain delay in play on the Sunday but thanks to the Palmerston North Golf Club staff, play was resumed 30 minutes later once the greens had a chance to drain after a fairly heavy, but short downpour.
Auckland Men’s, Women’s and Junior Men’s teams proved far to strong for their Wellington opponents in the annual fixture at the Taupo GC.
The Auckland teams delivered a clean sweep across all three competitions, to give the Wellington players an early season reminder of where the level of their games need to be, to compete with the best provinicial sides in NZ, especially in the Women’s and Junior’s space where Auckland have been national champions for the majority of the last 5 years.
A feature of the Wellington Junior side was the debut in the U16 team of youngsters Apirana and Mutu Ngarimu and Hugo Sidford, all who will be in this age catergory till 2026.
Ford, proved far too acomplished for a strong Men’s field at the Wellington 72 Strokeplay held at an immaculately presented Otaki GC.
With rounds of 66, 68, 68 and 69, Jayden was consistent in winning by 12 shots from provincial team mate Jonno Cane and a fast finishing Manawatu senior represenative, Ryan Rooney who closed with a 66 to match Fords low round of the event. Rounding out the top 5 were Elton Nicholson followed by Dominic Hazeldine.
In the Women’s competition. Manawatu no.2 Casey Chettleburgh put together 4 good rounds of 76, 73, 75, 74 to head off Auckland rep player Chloe So and Shandon’s Teisa-mania Vaka, with Sera Raj from Wanganaui and locals Fiona Mcrbide and Pip Smith rouning out the top spots.
Day 1, Saturday saw the field compete for the Gray Memorial Trophy, Ford and Cheetleburgh triumphing, and on day 2 Sunday club teams of 3 battled it out for the Leck Cup, Shandon and Boulcott’s Farm tying for first with Otaki charging home courtesy of a 4th round 70 by Riley Moy, in 3rd spot.
In the Harcourts Cup for provincial teams of 4, competed for across the 4 rounds with the best 3 scores in each round counting, Wellington Senior Men edged out Wellington Masters Men, from Manawatu/Wanganui Men in 3rd.
Hawarden defeated Boyle Cup holders Scargill 3-2 in a very close match at Scargill on Friday with the result only being decided on the final hole.
It was Scargill’s third defence of the Boyle Cup after defeating previous challengers Bottle Lake 4.5-.5 and Hanmer Springs 5-0.
The successful Hawarden team from left are Judith Sowden, Jill Allan, Erin Mulholland, Michelle Fletcher and Rose Cassidy.
It’s been a very memorable few weeks for the Hawarden ladies winning the Cowlishaw Cup and now the Boyle Cup for the first time since 1933.
In line with Boyle Cup Conditions of Play, Hawarden will call for challenges from eligible Canterbury Clubs in the New Year.
The Canterbury Golf 9 Hole Tournament was played at Templeton Golf Club recently in cool conditions, with the sun making an appearance later in the morning.
With the course in great order 31 ladies and 1 man braved the wintery conditions and posted some excellent stableford re-
sults as follows:
Grade 1
1st - Claire Ballantyne, Russley ... 23 pts
2nd - Sandy McCrone, Russley ... 21 pts
3rd - Philippa Lemon, Avondale ... 20 pts
Grade 2
1st - Diane Gebbie, Tai Tapu ... 22 pts, on countback
2nd - Barbara May, Greendale ... 22 pts, 3rd - Jane Trotter, Russley ... 20 pts
Overall Winner - Claire Ballantyne, Russley (pictured)
The annual Mid vs South Canterbury match took place on Sunday, August 27th at Timaru Golf Club amid a busy week in the region. Whilst Pleasant Point Golf Club hosts the New Zealand Secondary Schools currently, Timaru Golf Club are preparing to host the New Zealand Age Groups starting on Wednesday and the best in Aorangi saw the benefit of this playing in idyllic course conditions.
The format saw two teams of 20 go head-to-head in a gross stableford format with the best 15 scores from each region contributing to their total. Teams were comprised of the best Men, Women, Men’s Masters and Juniors from all pockets of Aorangi. The best round of the day and for South-Canterbury went to Daniel Perham (Temuka) who came in with 37 gross stablefords and a 1-under 71, whilst Dave King (Tinwald) almost matched that mark for Mid-Canterbury with 36 points and an even-par 72.
South Canterbury amassed 462 points across their 15 best scores, an average of 30.80 points (77.20 scoring average), whilst Mid-Canterbury narrowly edged past this total with 463 points across their 15 best scores, averaging 30.87 points (77.13 scoring average) to defend their title which was last played in 2020. Amazingly, this came down to the very last scorecard in what was an exceedingly close battle.
Invercargill Golf Club returned to near full strength for round two of the MLT Presidents Pennants, firing a warning shot to the competition that they are not about to relinquish their grasp on their 2022 title.
Playing at Queens Park GC in near-perfect conditions, Invercargill went behind
early, with the Riversdale pairing of Joe McCrostie and Grant Weller making light work of their opponents. The returning Liam Balneaves and Brad Harper then evened the ledger at the top of the order, putting the result in the hands of the middle order of Scott Ramsay and Mark Horgan. Both matches went down the last hole, with the Invercargill duo holding on for 1up wins, securing the two competition points for the Otatara Club.
start for the visiting Southland teams, with only the Masters pairing of Doug Carmichael and Bryan Cantley scrambling a win across all the morning foursomes fixtures.
Despite several foursome matches going to the final holes, the depth in Otago golf set the scene for the remainder of the games played in windy and, at times, wet conditions in Balclutha.
back with wins to Hamish Ireland and Callum Judkins before Tegan Proudfoot (Southland) bagged another narrow 2/1 victory against Conor Jamison.
Queens Park hoped to take advantage of playing on home turf and build on their first-round win when they took on Greenacres CC. Chris Sherlock stepped in at six and got the visitors off to a great start with a 4/3 victory over Park’s Tim Mackay before Tegan Proudfoot and Kyle Dobbie emulated Sherlock’s performance at the top of the order. Dan Kelliher and Ngarimu Paraki then replied for the hosts with tight 1up margins before Zach Fowle secured the half with a 2/1 win over Bryan Cantley.
The remaining fixture had Winton GC taking on Mataura GC. Dean Baxter had the Eastern side on the scoreboard early before Winton turned the screws with wins to Jason Unahi, Max Schuster and Ewan Clark. Rob Mainland (Mataura) then put the result in the hands of the number ones following a 5/3 win over Winton’s Brodie Keen. Doug Carmichael (Winton) held the upper hand for much of his match against Tyler McLean, eventually holding on for a 2/1 victory and stealing the two points for Winton, who moved to equal top of the table ahead of hosting the next round.
Otago were too strong for Southland at Balclutha GC. Blue and Gold reigned supreme at Balclutha Golf Club recently. The day got off to the worst possible
The Women’s Salisbury Cup was always heading back to Otago after a dominant display in the morning. Robyn Pullar and Ariana Beck came closest for the Southerners, taking the teenage duo of Sumin Kang and Yoonae Jeong to the final hole, eventually losing two down. Helen Baird and Sam Walker charged late against the experienced pairing of Tracey Storer and Bec Calder before eventually succumbing on the 17th hole.
The afternoon individual matchplay result was closer than the scoreline reflected. Helen Baird and rookie Hannah Struthers picked up wins for Southland alongside a hard-fought half from Teena McColl. Olivia Frost pushed Jeong to the final hole, eventually losing one down before Ariana Beck went close against another teenage prodigy, Sophia Park, who showed she had experience beyond her years in only her second representative fixture of this format. The final score flattering Otago, 9.5 - 2.5, another year of development from the Southland ladies could see these margins closing further.
The Men’s event is always a tight-fought battle between the two sides. Otago had one hand on the Challenge Shield before lunch with a five-match head start on the scoreboard. All foursomes matches went to at least the 17th hole on the undulating course, preempting a tough afternoon of individual matches.
Leading out Southlands hopes was Liaim Hewitt, accounting for Otago’s number one Will McLauchlan on the last hole before Tyler McLean doubled the points for the Maroons with a dominant 4/3 win against Phil Bungard. Otago then struck
The tie sat in the balance when Jacob Bellamy managed to sneak a win against Southland’s Matt Crawford on the last hole before his Otago teammates tidied up the tail end, showcasing the depth in the district comfortably accounting for their visiting opponents.
The Paul Adams Trophy was a much closer match than the final score suggested. Following Carmichael and Cantley’s win against the top pairing of Michael Smith and Chris Snow, narrow losses from Brad Harper and Ngarimu Paraki and Joel Opaco and Alan Baird could have swayed the balance in Southland’s favour at lunch.
Carmichael and veteran Ewan Clark posted wins after the break before Chris Snow avenged his early morning loss, taking out Brad Harper 4/3. Brett Kenelly and Andrew Hobbs then had the hosts in the box seat with wins on the 17th hole. The victory sealed when Otago’s Kevin Clark beat Alan Baird 5/3. Joel Opaco and Jason Unahi had the chance to add some respectability to the scoreline before both eventually going down to their opponents on the last hole.
Southland fielded a six-person strong side in this year’s Alan Page Memorial clash with neighbours Otago. The age group development event is an excellent opportunity for emerging players in both districts to test their skills at the entry-level to representative golf.
The challenging layout at Balclutha GC provided a stern test for these young golfers, placing a premium on accuracy off the tee.
Will Carson came closest for a Southland win against Conner Howes, unfortunately going down 2/1. George Prendergast also showed glimpses of his best golf against Kai Koni before losing 3/2.
