By Paul Gueorgieff Editor, Golfer Pacific NZ
This is a follow up from my column of last month.
For the February edition of Golfer Pacific I wrote about the stroke indexes that are attached to each hole on a golf course.
Golf courses around the world are encouraged to make the stroke indexes even numbers for one nine and odd numbers for the other nine. That’s a manipulation.
Golf courses around the world are also encouraged not to have the No 1 stroke hole amongst
the last two or three holes. That’s a manipulation.
Not having the No 1 stroke index amongst the last few holes is to avoid the situation where that shot is not used because the match has already been concluded.
Let’s go through that situation. Your are on an eight handicap and I am on a nine handicap. In other words you give me one shot in a matchplay event and that will be on the stroke one hole.
The question I ask is why do you give me a shot on what is supposedly the hardest hole on
the course?
The answer is that is how it has probably been done for decades and it probably originated in Scotland or England.
I suggest it’s time for a change.
I reckon if you are on an eight handicap and I am on a nine handicap, you should concede your one shot on the hole that carries a stroke index of nine.
That’s exactly what happens in a stableford competition which I think works well enough.
The only difference in a stableford-similar system is that if you score a nine on a hole and I score a 10, you still win the hole.
Under a stableford format the hole would be halved because we both scored no stableford points.
If we adopted this stableford-similar system it would not matter if the last hole carried the stroke one index.
If we were all square going to the last hole, you would not have to concede me one shot on what really is the hardest hole on the course.
That makes sense to me and stroke indexes could truly be an indication of how hard each hole is. There wouldn’t have to be a manipulation.
Kazuma Kobori is almost certainly headed for the DP World Tour.
The Canterbury golfer racked up his third win in succession on the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia when winning at Castle Hill Country Club in Sydney last month.
That win put Kobori amongst the lead of the tour’s order of merit of which the top three gain a card to play on the 2024/25 DP World Tour. It was unlikely he would be overhauled.
In that case Kobori would join the likes of fellow New Zealanders Ryan Fox, Daniel Hillier and Sam Jones who are playing the DP World Tour this year.
Kobori, 22, only turned professional last November and was pleased his decision to play the PGA Tour of Australasia was paying dividends.
“I made a pretty bold call this year not playing Asian Tour Q school, instead committing to other tours and stuff,” Kobori told Jimmy Emanuel who writes for the PGA Tour of Australia website.
“So pretty happy with how it’s going and then get my world ranking up and it would be pretty cool.”
Each of Kobori’s three wins have been worth $A45,000 which makes for a total of $A135,000. His world ranking
went to 434 after starting the year at 1179.
Kobori won by one shot at Castle Hill after being one of four players sharing the lead at the completion of round three.
Out in the second-last group alongside compatriot Kerry Mountcastle, Kobori birdied the par three second hole as his playing partner made bogey.
At the uphill par four next hole, it was Mountcastle who threw the opening salvo when he holed out for an eagle two from 129 metres and caused Kobori some slight distress.
“It was really good until he just made it on three,’’ Kobori recalled.
“So that got me a bit rattled to say the least, and then it was good early on, because we were kind of trading birdies, he (Mountcastle) kind of with-
ered away a bit at the end.”
Kobori nearly had his own moment of magic at the par three fourth when his bunker shot hit the flag, leaving a tap-in par.
Kobori then upped the pace when making four birdies in the next five holes to pull in front as the charge of Mountcastle subsided. In the mixed gender tournament, Jenny Shin and veteran Brendan Jones emerged as the most likely to spoil Kobori’s hattrick aspirations.
Turning into the second nine at 23 under par, Kobori would make just one more birdie at the par four 13th, but that all but assured him of the title when he tapped in for par at the 18th for a final round 66 and score of 24 under.
Shin the only player a chance to catch him after birdie at 17, her birdie at the last giving her second alone one back.
“It was one of those days where early on it just didn’t really click, but I knew if I just stayed patient, things were going to go my way and they did so I am very grateful,” Kobori said.
Shin, who plays on the LPGA Tour, took second despite a double bogey on the par three 11th hole.
United States-based New Zealand professional Harry Hillier overcame a five-shot deficit with nine holes to play to win his first Charles Tour title at the inaugural Race to Tieke.
The Race to Tieke is the 2023 season-finale on the Charles Tour, sponsored by Jennian Homes, where the top 24 professionals in last year’s season, plus tournament invitations and elite amateurs and juniors, competed over 54 holes at Tieke Golf Estate in Hamilton last month.
Nine-time Charles Tour winner Josh Geary was looking for a historic 10th victory and was in the box seat to do so following scintillating rounds of 66 and 64 to sit at 12 under par, three shots ahead of the chasers starting the final round.
Standing on the 10th tee, Geary had increased his buffer to five before Hillier changed gears.
The Kansas City University graduate rattled off birdies at 11, 12, 14, and 16, while Geary dropped
three coming in.
Hillier made two solid pars on Nos 17 and 18 to win his first professional event in New Zealand following scores of 70, 63, and 66 to finish 14-under-par.
“It was a long, hot day out there again,’’ Hillier said.
“Josh played great all day but struggled a bit coming home. You have to be really patient out there – that was the main thing for me. Sitting five shots back, standing on the 10th tee, I just needed to chip away and play a little more aggressively.
“Overall, I’m stoked to get my first win on the Jennian Homes Charles Tour.”
Hillier, 24, was to have played in the New Zealand Open before returning to the United States where he plays the PGA Tour Americas.
James Hydes finished the Race to Tieke in third ahead of Dongwoo Kang, with Jayden Ford finishing a shot behind Kang as the leading amateur.
The 103rd New Zealand Open at Millbrook, near Queenstown, will be just under way when this is published.
Arriving at Millbrook Resort it became immediately obvious that this year’s event, presented by Sky Sport, has lifted the bar in many ways even before it has begun. For starters, prizemoney is lifted 21 percent from $1.65 million to $2 million.
Practice rounds for the professionals on the Tuesday were grouped and timed so they could be followed as in a tournament day. The 18th hole revamp for spectators and the corporate and sponsor people was spectacular. The grandstand behind the green a most welcome addition. The village green with the various food outlets and relaxing areas with TV screen would again be a hive of activity with musical entertainment from a string quartet.
As for the players, a very strong entry is again hitting the fairways with the New Zealand presence looking very likely to produce a winner of the Brodie Breeze Trophy. Highest world ranked player
Kiwi Daniel Hillier has Steve Williams on his bag and as Daniel said, with a smile: “Steve can tell me where to hit it and I will hit it.”
Past form on the Millbrook layouts should aid previous winner Michael Hendry and twice runner-up Queenstown’s Ben Campbell. Both have recent wins under their belt as has Hillier. However, one player sure to attract large galleries is New Zealand’s newest star 22-year-old Kazuma Kobori who has notched three recent wins in Australia since turning professional in November. He is almost certain to join Hillier and Sam Jones on the DP World Tour this year with his top ranking on the Australasian Tour. Kobori finished near the top of the New Zealand Open leaderboard last year.
Josh Geary is another who has played well at Millbrook and has recent winning form. Nick Voke is also capable of surprising. Kerry Mountcastle is yet another Kiwi with a recent Australian win who can go low.
Not forgetting our Kiwi star on the PGA Champions’ Tour, Steve Alker, with a sensational eight wins in two years there.
Alker makes no secret of how much a win in his national open would mean to him. Another interesting entrant is left hander Tim Wilkinson. The 45-year-old is returning to the game after more than two years out with injury and surgery. A professional for 20 years starting on the then Nationwide Tour he progressed to the PGA Tour in 2008 with a second and third in that year.
Knee issues have been the biggest problem with the pain preventing Wilkinson swinging or working out. Following surgery he has worked hard on recovery and said: “After five years coming back to the New Zealand Open was an opportunity to come home and play competitively.”
He last played here in 2019 after a tie for 11th in 2018.
“I have no idea how I am going to play, but the drive is still there to play at the highest level,’’ Wilkinson said.
Expect a strong challenge from the many Australians and from none more so than popular defending champion Brendan Jones. He is in good form and chased Kobori down to the wire recently.
There are many other Australians capable of winning including former winners Matt Griffin, Brad Kennedy, Jordan Zunic, Zach Murray, Dimi Papadatos and form players Brett Coletta and David Micheluzzi.
The Asian challenge is likely to be led by Thailand’s Jazz Janewattananond.
As always the ambassador lineup adds colour and interest. Former world tennis number one Australian Ash Barty is the star attraction. Her golf is seriously impressive as she plays off a four handicap and she actually attended the 2023 event as a spectator.
Said Barty: “It is a fantastic event and I enjoyed my time there supporting (fellow Australian) Louis Dobbelaar. I love to visit beautiful New Zealand. I am excited about playing in the Pro-Am.”
The other ambassadors to add star quality are regulars Stephen Fleming, Jeff Wilson, Israel Dagg, Ricky Ponting, Ian Botham, Hayden Paddon, Ella Gunson and Sean Fitzpatrick.
The drama has begun and it will be fun watching it play out.
Golf tours overseas can offer a unique and exciting experience for golfers of all levels. Many countries around the world boast stunning golf courses set against breathtaking landscapes, providing not only a challenging game but also a visually rewarding one.
Join us on a golf tour where you’ll find it’s not just about the game but also about being immersed in the local culture, exploring the country and making memories that last a lifetime. Whether you ‘re a serious golfer or a casual enthusiast, one of our golf tours is a fantastic way to combine the love of the game with travel and adventure.
Our fully hosted packages ensure you have a hassle-free, fun and relaxed time when travelling with us. You’ll find all the details of all these and other tours on our website, including convenient online booking.
By Neville Idour
Tokoroa Golf Club, situated 10 kilometres south of Tokoroa, is home to yet another great country course we have encountered in our recent travels.
It is easy to find next to state highway one. In the heart of the North Island, halfway between Taupo and Hamilton, the lush green fairways stand out. The 18-hole course is pumice based and with often tree-lined fairways it is playable all year round.
From the white tees it is 5638 metres and from the yellow tees it is 5128 metres.
The course is no pushover as it does
have undulations and the trees, while not too intrusive, will penalise a bad shot. However the fairways are open and welcome a good tee shot. There is excellent variety in the design and layout. With four par threes and four par fives there are no unwelcome surprises.
The opening two holes are not long, although one plays up to a dogleg right. The front nine holes are longer overall by about 300 metres.
The back nine is bookended by par fives. From the white tees No 10 is a real challenge at 481 metres. However, there are only two other holes north of 300 metres and three par threes.
Not surprisingly the course garners
great reviews with almost 100 percent approval.
“Great course”. “A fun layout.” This writer can not disagree. Importantly the greens are in good condition. People find the staff friendly and, when open, the café food goes down well.
We spoke to Jon Welch who was on duty before we left. Interestingly his ancestors came out from England and arrived in Wellington a week before the Treaty of Waitangi was signed.
We asked him about membership.
“We have about 300 members including about 25 ladies. We have begun a junior programme recently.”
Welch said the current site was not
the original site which was nearer Tokoroa. The current land belonged to the Department of Conservation and was given for a golf club after World War II.
If you are in the area Tokoroa is well worth playing. Especially on their special $10 Mondays. Ridiculous bargain. Otherwise $25 will not put a hole in the pocket. A limited number of carts are available.
The Manawatu Golf Club is situated in Palmerston North’s suburb of Hokowhitu, bordering the banks of the Manawatu River and the city’s Centennial Lagoon.
The course is regarded as Manawatu’s premier 18 hole layout, and provides a challenging yet fair test for golfers of all abilities. Tree-lined, beautifully manicured fairways, fast rolling greens and over 50 challenging white sand bunkers feature throughout the parklike course.
Visitors and casual golfers are always welcome at Manawatu Golf Club to test their skills on our championship layout. Please note however there will be times where visiting players are unable to play, due to members only Club days and corporate events. Green fees are very affordable, and available during most days of the week. Phone the Pro Shop on 06 357 8793 ext 1 to confirm course availability.
19 Centennial Drive, Palmerston North | +64 6 357 8793 | office@manawatugolfclub.com
By Neville Idour
Tirau, a North Island town with a population of about 900, is one of my favourite stops for a body refill whenever on a northern road trip.
Situated south of Hamilton this attractive Waikato town also boasts a wee gem of a golf course. This time we decided to check it out.
Typical of the Waikato it is lush green and picturesque with trees to add character. The club celebrated its centenary in June, 2021.
Formed in 1921 membership subscriptions were set at five shillings for gentlemen and two
shillings and six pence for ladies. The following year they skyrocketed to one pound and one shilling for men (sorry, gentlemen) and 10 shillings and six pence for women (sorry, ladies). Oh how times have changed.
The course was nine holes and membership was a healthy 36 men and 39 women.
The first hole was a classic. They hit over Parapara Road then over a tree and hedges before reaching the first green.
After a few years the club went into recess, reopening in 1934 on the Saleyard course. World War II saw the club in recess again until 1947 when a course
on the Bailey farm was used. The club prospered there for 25 years as facilities were continually improved and membership almost topped 200.
In 1974 the time was right to secure land for their own 18hole course and so they did. The first nine holes were opened for play in 1976 followed by the second nine a year later. Various improvements to facilities and the course have been ongoing.
We spoke with general manager Ron Macdonald who is in reality a semi-volunteer. They have a paid greenkeeper and members help him out when needed. Current membership is around 167.
Maungakiekie has the grace that only a mature golf course can offer — well contoured fairways and greens and an abundance of native trees attracting a wide variety of colourful bird life. No wonder the Clubhouse overlooks some of the most stunning views in Auckland across the course to the Waitakere Ranges and the Manukau Harbour Headland, all within 15 minutes’ drive from both Auckland International Airport and Auckland CBD. Recent course redevelopments devised by renown American course architect Dave Harmon (Kauri Cliffs) have given Maungakiekie a number of new
fairways, greens and challenges to test and delight both the casual golfer and low-handicapper. In addition to the course itself, the Club boasts multiple practice areas: putting green, indoor driving nets and Albatross golf simulator, indoor putting and chipping green, chipping green, practice bunkers, and short game range. Maungakiekie operates a fully stocked Golf Shop, 7-day Cafe, and full bar facilities. The Club hosts and welcomes Corporate and Charity Golf Days, with the catering and function facilities being ideal for dinners, meetings, conferences, weddings and private functions.
The club is hoping to get a junior programme started so has circulated the schools to encourage this.
Macdonald said: “We run several events a year including a charity tournament. We also have nine golf carts available for hire.” Cart hire is $40. Green fees are $30. So to the course itself. There are two tee blocks. From the blue tees the course is just 4651 metres. There are seven par threes, 10 par fours and just the one par five which measures 439 metres. The yellow tees present 4268 metres in length with eight par threes, seven par fours and
three par fives.
The first hole, a 324 metre par four, requires a well placed shot to a tricky green and the thought this course may be no pushover. The fourth hole is a neat drop down 125 metre par three with a pond on the left short of a sizeable green. A lovely hole. There is excellent variety in the design and challenge from hole to hole.
The 15th is a straight 257 metre par four, however, trees either side make for a narrow access to the green so a pull or a fade will bring tree trouble. This would be one of the most difficult holes.
The finishing hole is a reasonably amenable 330 metres from either tee to a wide fairway with a back to front slightly sloping green. Overall a most enjoyable experience. In good condition this is a fun course and a must play if in the area.
Mike Trass won the New Zealand Seniors’ Championship at his home track of the Hastings Golf Club to claim his first national title.
Trass conquered the record 240-player field, which represented 75 golf clubs and seven countries at the Hastings and Hawke’s Bay golf clubs over the three days of competition, winning by three strokes over Englishman Stephen Jensen at two under par.
The leading 160 players and ties pegged it up at Hastings Golf Club for Saturday’s final round last month, chasing the overnight leader Glenn Coughlan, a four-handicapper from the Templeton Golf Club in Christchurch, who led at two under par.
Trass, who was a shot behind Coughlan following rounds of 72 and 70, played alongside the overnight leader in the final group. The 50-year-old almost immediately found himself at the top of the leaderboard after Coughlan bogeyed four of his opening five holes and found himself in a tussle for the title with fellow club member Stuart Duff, who was playing in the group ahead.
Trass made the turn one over par following a couple of bogeys and a birdie and went into the final nine in the box seat to win his first national championship. He birdied 12 and bogeyed 13 and needed to play stress free golf coming home with Jensen posting the clubhouse lead at one over par.
Duff caught Trass by the time they got to the 15th hole. They both birdied the short par four, parred the par three 16th, and Trass poked his nose in front with a clinical birdie on 17 after watching Duff three-putt for par.
A par up the last was good enough for the Hastings’ club champion to add a New Zealand Seniors Championship title to his mantlepiece, an achievement he was extremely proud of.
“The anticipation of reaching 50 and being able to participate was exceeded by the event and the friendly but super competitive spirit. I thoroughly enjoyed the three days of competition,” Trass said.
“The course was set up pretty tough, so I knew I just had to keep as error-free as possible and luckily managed to do that.
“I saw Stu (Duff) in the group ahead was playing really well so there was definitely some pressure in the back nine. I played nicely coming home and hit some nice close approaches on 12, 15 and 17, which I managed to convert. I’m just stoked to get the job done.”
Trass finished with a final round of one under par 71, beating Jensen after Duff was disqualified in unfortunate circumstances, signing for an incorrect scorecard.
Auckland’s David Somervaille, the 1996 New Zealand Amateur champion, finished third overall, a shot behind the Englishman.
Other winners of their age groups were Stephen Jensen, who won the 55-59-year-old bracket, James Lavender won the 60-64-year bracket, John Rademakers won the 60-65-year division, with former New Zealand test cricketer Paul McEwan taking out the 70-year and older division.
The world’s most successful caddie Steve Williams won the nett competition returning scores of 80, 74, and 74 off an eight handicap.
After a long tenure at The Hills Golf Club in Arrowtown, Craig Palmer now finds himself part of the growing phenomenon that is golf data and technology company Golf Genius. We spoke to him recently about his career move along with Peter Shaw who looks after the Asian region and asked how his involvement came about.
“It all started during my time at The Hills when for the invitational pro-am we were presented with a live scoring option for the tournament,’’ Palmer said.
“Golf Genius was the clear and obvious choice for that. We used it extensively during my time at The Hills and when I left The Hills I was quickly in discussions with Peter about potentially joining Golf Genius. I was brought on as New Zealand manager to give New Zealand golf clubs the opportunity to streamline their event operations, introduce some more exciting formats and create new revenue opportunities.”
We asked what the cost to use the format is. “It costs $4875 annually in New Zealand.”
Shaw then went on to explain the benefits and how to monetise it.
“We provide the software to the clubs, but most clubs that do it really well will oncharge access to a corporate event or business house league. So good clubs make money out of us because they do it very well and use it all the time whereas other clubs look at it as a cost of doing a better job.
“So when a corporate event comes along you are providing website, entry portals, live scoring. That’s where the corporate customer gets much better branding and it becomes a brand legacy for their event so they pay a fee to the club. So that is how they can monetise it and we encourage that. That is the difference in what we do which is golf tournament management really well. We don’t do the venue management side of things so we are an add on to a golf club.
“In Australia and New Zealand there is always going to be a club system such as Dot Golf or whatever. Then we will be that extra tournament management that goes deep into saving the professional and operations team time. That is where Craig is a massive investment in our business that is very difficult to find. Motivated golf professionals that, one, know the product, and, two, have the passion to help other golf professionals and that is what we are seeing in New Zealand. We can help them do events better and they won’t be investing as much of their own time running these events.”
How about golf technology company Dot Golf which is used by Golf New Zealand? Is there any link?
Palmer said: “We integrate with Dot Golf from a handicapping and score posting perspective, so the two systems work together. We are not trying to replace Dot Golf. Every country will have it’s system. So we are defi-
nitely an addition to Dot Golf.”
Shaw continued: “Dot Golf is the born and bred New Zealand product. They have extended to other markets and they are a simplistic approach for a members’ stableford event. Where we come in is like here at The Hills Pro-Am and for long running spread events and leagues. This is where we have a lot more features. But there is always a need for a local supplier with its member and venue management. We like to work together with other suppliers. Some clubs need us and love what we do, while other clubs are not interested and that is fine. But clubs that want to do more will have a look and work with us.”
The huge advantage of Golf Genius is the immediacy of it for all events. Whereas most club events have to be run manually without live scoring, with Golf Genius any event scoring can be followed by players and spectators hole by hole. So Golf Genius streamlines the running of events and thereby creates a better experience for those playing as well.
Shaw added: “We provide all the information clubs and players want today — (such as) cut lines, which they want to know for some events just like at a New Zealand Open.”
Palmer: “ The Hills Pro-Am is the perfect example. It is a team event but today you are not playing with your team but can keep up with your team’s position on Golf Genius.”
We ask about the advantages for sponsors.
Palmer: “There are numerous opportunities. Gibbston Valley Wines are sponsoring this pro-am so their branding features in all the printed material and the web portal.”
Shaw: “Clubs can bring on a sponsor for any event and showcase them on all aspects of the event. Having done this for eight years in Australia I have seen a lot of clubs easily get a return on their subscription costs (for Golf Genius), so don’t mind paying for it. Craig and I just want to help educate the golf pros and operations teams to be better and quicker so they don’t have to be chained to the counter all day every day.”
Palmer gives an excellent recent local example.
“The Otago Golf Club has signed up to Golf Genius which is really cool because it is a very old club and one of our mottos is where tradition meets technology. The first event they ran with Golf Genius was the Otago Strokeplay which historically had not had a sponsor. However through the branded web portal for that event we helped (manager) Shelley Duncan set up, she managed to secure a sponsor.”
Shelley Duncan said: “It has been amazing with all the help and support and the players enjoyed it as well.”
Arrowtown Golf Club recently used it and the consensus was fantastic. The Hastings Open also used Golf Genius very successfully.
Is it difficult to set up Golf Genius? Palmer explains his
experience at The Hills.
“No it is not. Because it is capable of more it requires a certain amount of information. But it is all very intuitive and the support that I had as a customer was unbelievable from Peter (Shaw) and the rest of the team.”
Having said all this, it is worth a brief look at the evolution of Golf Genius. Successful entrepreneur and golf enthusiast Mike Zisman founded Golf Genius in 2009 to better organise pairings and tee times. Then in 2012 the 10-person Golf Genius team rolled out an innovative software solution for the management of recreational and competitive golf leagues. Tournament management was the logical next step.
They launched at the 2014 PGA Merchandise Show and through 2014 and 2015 it’s customer base grew rapidly along with more features and product releases. By the end of 2015 they employed 26 team members and managed over one million golf rounds that year.
In August, 2016, a collaboration with the United States Golf Association (USGA) began which expanded the customer base by thousands of clubs and scores of golf associations. In 2019 the USGA engaged Golf Genius in a much expanded role of not just management but the handicapping systems and administration for Allied Golf Associations (AGA) and clubs. These services were launched in 2020 to all AGA’s in the United States, their 15,000 member clubs and millions of golfers.
Golf Genius has continued to grow and provides innovative software solutions to over 10,000 private clubs, public courses and resorts in over 60 countries. It also serves national associations including the USGA, Golf Canada, England Golf, the Legends Tour, the European Tour and the PGAs of America, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Japan, Portugal and New Zealand. Golf Genius now has more than 200 employees including over 70 PGA professionals, with sales and support operations in the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia and now with Craig Palmer in New Zealand.
Palmer’s presence has had a significant impact already and to date the New Zealand clubs using Golf Genius are Tara Iti, Te Arai links, Royal Auckland and Grange, Titirangi, Clearwater, Otago, Arrowtown, Millbrook, The Hills and with more clubs in the pipeline. This writer’s experiences with Golf Genius show it is definitely the gold standard for golf tournament management.
We will let Ed Chapman from Royal Auckland and Grange have the last words.
Chapman said: “Golf Genius is a powerful and intuitive tournament management system that has allowed us to elevate our member experience. Our matchplay sign-ups have increased by nearly 50 percent across the board with members commenting the ease of sign-up with Golf Genius being a key factor. Our operational efficiency has improved which is more than worth the investment alone.”
Ever heard of somewhere in New Zealand called Nopera?
Don’t worry if you haven’t. It’s about 2-1/2 hours of continually-winding roads west of Picton at the top of the South Island in, literally, the middle of the Marlborough Sounds. While you can drive to Nopera Bay, most people choose to either boat in, helicopter in, or fly in.
Apart from the golf club, there’s not a lot else at Nopera Bay. Okay, to be perfectly honest, apart from a few farms and a smattering of remote homes, the only thing at Nopera Bay is in fact the golf club. In February, the club held its annual Bayleys Nopera Classic tournament -- one of the biggest events on the club’s highly sociable calendar.
The crew at Nopera Golf
Club walk a tight rope when it comes to running their course. On one hand, they could always do with visitors to bolster modest club funds, yet simultaneously on the other hand they jealously guard their little-known piece of paradise, with its isolation and beauty as its greatest appeal, along with how easy that makes it to get onto their course virtually whenever they want.
Visitors don’t just stumble across Nopera Golf Club. Really you specifically have to want to go the club as it’s on a road to nowhere, apart from a smattering, and I mean smattering, of remotely isolated homes. In some cases in the Marlborough Sounds, your neighbour is several kilometres down the road, over the hill, or around the next inlet.
It’s this remoteness which
However, the visitors didn’t have anything as small as $20, so they handed over the $150 they had in their possession, and said the amazing hospitality from Laurence and the other club members, combined with the experience of playing on such a special course, literally in the middle of nowhere, yet surrounded by stunning natural beauty, was worth far more than $150.
My experience was something similar. I was picked up from Te Mahia jetty, about an hour’s drive through the hills west of Picton, by Nopera supporter and all-round good guy Birnie in his vintage 104-yearold little diesel sailing vessel.
goodies donated by community members around Kenepuru Sound and generous club sponsor Bayleys Marlborough (big shout out to agency owner Glenn Dick and his sales crew who have been long-time supporters of Nopera Golf Club), after which was a very enjoyable Kiwi meal of chicken and ham with an amazing array of beautiful salads was consumed, along with a few more liquid refreshments as you would find in any country golf club around New Zealand.
is an attraction for those who are fortunate enough to hear about Nopera Golf Club. For example, several weeks before the Bayleys Nopera Classic was played, there were a couple of holidaymakers from Europe who were staying in Blenheim and had earlier played the fancy fairways of Millbrook down in Queenstown as part of their vacation.
The visitors were keen for a different golf experience in the Tasman area and were encouraged by their accommodation hosts to explore the delightful waterfront greens and fairways of Nopera Golf Club for something very, very unique in a Kiwi style and setting.
They paid for a $400 return flight in and out from Blenheim to Kenepuru Sounds where the club is located. The alternative, a drive in from Picton, takes around 2-1/2 hours on a good day. The runway landing strip for small planes is literally a five iron away from the Nopera Golf Club, making it very handy for collecting a hire cart or buggy to carry the gear around the neighbouring course.
The international golfing guests received a freshly caught snapper lunch prepared by Nopera Golf Club president and outstanding salt of the earth host Laurence O’Connell. The green fees for playing Nopera are $20.
We then took half an hour to cruise across the deep blue waters of Kenepuru Sounds to arrive at Nopera Bay – which is surrounded by pasture and tree covered hills on three sides, and the water on the other.
Arriving on the night before the Bayleys Nopera Classic was played, I enjoyed homemade woodfired pizzas and homebrew beer with club president Laurence O’Connell and a dozen of the club volunteers who had earlier spent many hours grooming and preparing the course ahead of its big tournament.
There were approximately 40 players in the Nopera Classic field, half of whom drove in from up to an hour-and-ahalf away, while the other half boated in from across Kenepuru Sound. The weather was great for the front nine, but a little wet on the back nine. The course presented some great challenges - with excellent pin placements and some natural contour, gully, and tree obstacles.
The tournament winner was club stalwart Rebecca Teonea. The inscription on the trophy, which has traditionally always had to be read aloud by the winner, was a humorous reflection of great Kiwiana at its finest: “Nopera’s course you’ve mastered, you dirty bunkering bastard, now take this cup and fill it up, so we can all get plastered.”
Following the day’s event was the customary prize giving with a well-stocked prize and raffle table containing
On my trip back across Kenepuru Sound the next day I travelled in Laurence’s aluminium fishing boat, and of course, it would have been remiss of us not to drop a line or two in the water – with Laurence keen to prove that all the banter about the sound’s abundant fish life was a reality.
Sure enough, we bagged a haul of snapper and nine kahawai, enhanced by Laurence dredging up some oysters and mussels en-route back to Te Mahia jetty.
The folk at Nopera Golf Club are some of the friendliest and most down to earth characters you will ever meet in New Zealand. They are the grass roots of golf in New Zealand, and in fact small town New Zealand as a whole. I can wholeheartedly recommend the experience of playing at this remote little course – where the laid-back enjoyment of playing its nine holes (each with two different tee blocks) is just one part of the bigger picture that will be forever etched in your memory.
The odds of the average golfer making a hole in one in their lifetime are incredibly small – approximately 12,500-1.
But the Hona brothers of Tauranga are making it look easy – incredibly achieving the feat on the same hole on the same course in the space of four months.
Seven-year-old Leo Hona became the youngest golfer to score a hole in one at Tauranga Golf Club on January 26. His achievement comes less than four months after his older brother Benson Hona scored his first hole in one at the age of just eight years old.
Leo was on the par three fourth hole playing off the blue tees at Tauranga Golf Club when he claimed his rare feat.
“I whacked the ball and it hit the front of the bunker and bounced onto the green. We were wondering where it went,” Leo recalled with a laugh.
It wasn’t until his playing partners went ahead to check and found the ball in the hole. Leo said he didn’t believe it at first and had to go and see for himself.
Leo said It felt good to have made his first hole in one just like his big brother Benson. His final score for the day after 18 holes was 92. “That was my best score ever -- usually shoot 100.”
In September last year, Benson Hona was on the same par three hole at Tauranga Golf Club when he scored his hole in one playing off the purple tees on the futures course for junior golfers.
“I hit it straight up and it landed on the green and then it sort of bounced and I didn’t know where it went next,’’ Benson said.
“I looked up on the green and it
wasn’t on the green and then my little brother Leo looked in the hole and the ball was in the hole. I was jumping around.”
Benson started playing golf around Christmas, 2022, while Leo picked up the clubs in January of last year, after their dad, Jason Hona, took up the sport.
Asked what their favourite part about golf was, the pair each said: “Getting hole in ones”.
Leo continued: “We have an instagram page called Ridin Birdie Brothaz but we are going to change it now to the Hole in One Brothers.”
Tauranga Golf Club manager Michelle Towersey said to get a hole in one at just seven and eight years old was “pretty cool”.
Towersey said she believed Leo was now the youngest golfer to have scored a hole in one at the club.
“It is a very rare feat, especially for a junior to be playing off the blue tees,” Towersey said. “Some people can play for 60 years and never have one.”
For more information about getting involved in junior golf like the Hona brothers, check out the Golf New Zealand website https://www.golf.co.nz/ futures-hubs to contact your local futures hub.
This definitely belongs in the believe it or not category. Apparently a legal challenge has been made by a couple of Americans from X-Ray Trust Ltd which owns two Queenstown properties in Speargrass Flat Road. These properties are a considerable distance away, well below the level of the Millbrook Coronet course.
They are objecting to the process of the consent granted in November, 2021. They have also taken legal action to prevent food sales from a halfway house on the Coronet course.
Why is anyone’s guess as it is not visible other than to those on the course. TV towers are the other concern but to catch a glimpse of them from Speargrass Flat road would take some effort.
While the good news is it will not affect this year’s New Zealand Open. Looking to the future and the eventual judicial review decision Michael Glading, the tournament director, said: “Where that ends up I am frightened to know.”
If it succeeds the consequences could be so damaging to not just the New Zealand Open but also the whole Queenstown and Arrowtown area.
The 92-year-old Phoenix Open in the United States is now being called the “Wasted” Management Phoenix Open (the tournament is sponsored by Waste Management) after some of the most chaotic drunken behaviour ever seen at a golf tournament, let alone an iconic PGA Tour event. Some of the scenes bordered on the unbelievable with no crowd control evident.
For many players it was the last straw. Apparently it is why we don’t see Rory McIlroy there. Zach Johnson was brutally frank saying: “This tournament has been inappropriate since I have been on tour and this is my 21st year. People falling out of the rafters, fights in the stands. When do you draw the line.”
Ben An called it a “s..t show.” Jordan Spieth, a normally cool character, reached breaking point on the Sunday morning on the 18th. His approach shot was barely airborne when he tossed his iron skywards and pointed to where someone had screamed during his backswing. Billy Horschel and Zach Johnson were seen confronting spectators. Said Horschel: “If this continues players will not want to come here.”
Caddie Willy Wilcox said the event is “descending into an all out heckle fest frat party. It is the minority of fans who turn up and have a competition as to who can get the most drunk or do the most obscene thing.” This year a woman was hospitalised with non life threatening injuries after falling from the grandstand on the 16th hole.
Police arrested 54 people. It was 18 arrests last year and none in 2022.
There were 211 people were ejected from the event, over twice as many as last year and 73 removed for trespassing. The figures do not include arrests involving under age drinking violations, as 653 calls for service were made. One spectator said security did not check her bag or scan her ticket. “It was a lot crazier than last year when there were a lot of drunk people. This year was definitely a lot worse. A lot of people non responsive, stumbling around, falling,” said the spectator.
The scenes from the 2024 event do not reflect well on the PGA Tour or the sport as a whole.
There has been much talk about LIV players wanting to return to the PGA Tour on a regular basis, but is that the reality? LIV players seem to be quite happy playing the LIV Tour. In fact Cameron Smith probably echos the thoughts of many.
“I’m so happy. Fourteen events, four majors, a couple of events at home where I can give back to the fans there and that’s me,’’ Smith said.
“There’s a lot of time to become a better golfer. I definitely don’t want to play any more tournaments. As far as the deal the PGA Tour has done with the Strategic Sports Group, no reaction really. I haven’t kept an eye on it. All of us here are just trying to make this tour the best we can.”
He is also pleased he can spend plenty of time at home leading into the new LIV season which is rare for a professional golfer.
“I probably had seven or eight weeks off competitive golf. Normally I would almost feel guilty putting the clubs down for a week. Just hanging out with friends and family, sit around, fire up the grill, sausages on bread and have a beer. Playing golf with old members at the golf club I grew up at, seeing the course, just puts a smile on my face.”
As for the golf the major championships are still a priority.
“I feel like I am still good enough to tick a couple of those off.”
Sounds like one happy chappie.
The 2024 Pebble Beach Pro-Am raised some eyebrows and criticism with its exclusive approach.
Only 80 players qualified or were invited to play making it the smallest field in the tournament’s history. The top 50 from last year’s FedEx Cup standings qualified along with several other category criteria.
One category drew some howls of protest and probably rightly so. Four players received invitations through sponsor exemptions, Peter Malnati, Maverick McNealy, Webb Simpson and Adam Scott.
But in reality three of them had no business being in this elevated event with a purse of $US20 million).
Why? Because they were not ranked within sniffing distance of the top 100 on the world rankings with rankings of 249, 197 and 225 respectively. Only Adam Scott qualified. So why did they get a spot? All four players serve as player directors on the PGA Tour policy board.
So it is hardly surprising some players have expressed anger. One said “It is shady.” Another said: “It doesn’t pass the smell test.”
Hard to disagree.
Questions were raised when transgender golfer Hailey Davidson won the NXXT Women’s Classic in the United States. The question was raised is this fair? Davidson maintains that after transitioning over nine years she no longer has an advantage from nine years ago.
World Athletics’ president Sebastion Coe said transgender women are prohibited from competing in elite competitions “to protect the female category.”
Hormone replacement and testosterone therapy are under question in some sports as to the end result. Others have allowed transgender sportspeople to compete with women if they fulfil certain requirements.
One golfer, two handicapper Carly Frost, said she has competed in scratch matches against transgender women and on both occasions was outdriven by at least 100 yards. While there is nothing against the choice of transgender people there is no doubt the women’s game needs to continue to develop in a totally fair environment.
Bryson DeChambeau may not be everyone’s favourite golfer but he seems to be one of the more reasonable and thoughtful out there. Having been confident that the PGA Tour and LIV Golf would come together soon, after the PGA Tour deal with Strategic Sports Group, he said: “I don’t know how it is all going to shake out. I don’t know what it really means for the PIF’s (Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund) position in it. What I can say is any investment into the game is gigantic for them.
“You are just going to see both entities continue to grow and I hope at some point we’ll come back together. It needs to happen. I hope people can just put down their weapons and come to the table and figure it out because that’s what’s good for the game and fans in general. Any additional capital going into golf is always positive. As time goes on, I think things will settle down in a positive way for both.”
Rory McIlroy’s about-face on the LIV Golf tour and players certainly caught many by surprise but was a welcome conciliatory move. He no longer thinks LIV players should be punished. “Let bygones be bygones. I was too
judgemental. Life is about choices. Some decided to play for LIV and some chose to stay. Those who are eligible to return should be allowed to,’’ McIlroy said.
“I see having diminished tours is bad for both parties. It would be much better being together, moving forward for the good of the game. The faster we get all back together and have the strongest fields possible will be great for golf.”
He further intimated that LIV had exposed flaws in the PGA Tour and the system of golf because “we are all supposed to be independent contractors and we can pick and choose what tournaments we want to play.” He also said if sponsors are expected to pay millions of dollars we need to guarantee the best players are going to show up.”
Jon Rahm has welcomed Rory McIlroy’s change of heart towards LIV Golf players in saying he hopes things will come back together with a deal between The PGA Tour and LIV. Rahm said he has given little thought to the potential alliance and was focussed on his Legion X111 team.
However he appreciated McIlroy’s comments.
“He may have had second thoughts about his past comments,’’ Rahm said if McIlroy.
“I think he might be seeing that the landscape of golf is changing and you need to adjust with it. I think he might be seeing that and everybody is entitled to their opinion. But it is nice to have the support from a player of his calibre, especially his Ryder Cup remarks, an important statement for change.”
The PGA Tour has continued it’s war on LIV Golf by gaining a $US3 billion investment from the Strategic Sports Group (SSG). Now many PGA Tour personnel are saying a partnership with LIV is no longer needed. In reality is this just money talking and not seeking unification of the game?
Two hundred PGA Tour members will benefit from a $US1.5 billion grant programme, hence the reactions from so many vested interest players. What has to be remembered is the money is not really a threat to LIV. Also the SSG will expect a return from their billions. They are all astute business people with worldwide connections to sports.
Are they looking to expand to a worldwide tour? The press release said: “The money will provide strategic focus on maximising revenue generation for the benefit of the players and on finding opportunities to enhance the game of golf across the world.” Will there be a move to merge all the PGA Tours in Asia, Europe, South Africa and Australasia?
Bernhard Langer, speaking on the PGA Tour Champions for over 50-yearolds, said: “Hopefully they will not for-
get us totally and leave us in the dust. Hopefully we will benefit from whatever develops.”
Poland’s 30-year-old Adrian Meronk surprised the golf world with his recent move to LIV Golf after a stellar year on the DP World Tour and thereby gaining his PGA Tour card. The only downer for him was inexplicably missing out on the European Ryder Cup team. He admitted it was hard to watch the event.
He used that as fuel to record some fine performances for the remainder of 2023. Due to play his first PGA Tour event at the Farmers Insurance Open he instead chose to join Martin Kaymer’s team the Gleeks at LIV. He reflected the thoughts of several LIV players on his reasons for the move. The key factor — more time at home.
“I am really looking forward to the new challenge,’’ Meronk said.
“Joining LIV is a very special moment for my career. The 2023 season made me feel that despite all my successes, 287 days a year spent away from home is too many. The LIV schedule gives me more time with my loved ones and more space to work on every aspect of my game. While on LIV I will remain passionately dedicated to supporting the next generation of golf in Poland.”
Who would argue with that?
One of the nicest guys on the PGA Tour, 39-year-old Gary Woodland has returned to the game he loves after horrendous brain surgery. The 2019 US Open Champion underwent surgery in September to remove a benign brain tumour but was able to make a quick recovery and be hitting balls just two months later.
He said he spent the five months leading up to the surgery thinking: “I am going to die.”
He said that at some of the worst moments he was often terrified anything and everything would kill him before an all encompassing wave of relief hit him once he woke up and realised he still had full vision and the full use of his left side, post surgery.
Before surgery the tumour was pushing on the part of the brain that controls fear and anxiety. It didn’t matter if he was driving a car or on an airplane he would be thinking everything was going to kill him.
“When I woke up and realised I was okay I was filled with thankfulness and love, and that replaced the fear that I was going to die.”
We can only wish him all the best from now on.
DP World Tour chief executive Keith Pelley has resigned as from April hoping to see the merger between all three main tours complete. He will be replaced by Guy Kinney on April 2. Not too many tears will be shed at his departure despite Thomas Bjorn’s praise. “Keith’s greatest period in charge was probably covid when at his best managing the tour, finances and staff.”
Many players though, have expressed concerns with the general direction of the DP World Tour under Pelley.
“The older guys are happy with the deal Pelley made to send 10 DP World Tour players to the PGA Tour at the end of every season,” said one pro.
“Get rid of 10 really good players from the top which gives them a chance to move up or stay on tour. That reflects badly on what was once a great tour. Not long ago the Spanish Open was packed with top players. Not so much now. There is a level of indifference now.”
The other big gripe is too many events and mediocre fields. Another said: “I would like us to play fewer events. There are too many which dilutes the product. We can’t be strong with 42 events. Most of us play about 25. So we miss 17 which is a lot and field strengths are even weaker. They are not very attractive for sponsors and that is why not many are interested in most of our tour. Hardly anyone cares about at least 20 of our events.
The drop in the now obsolete world rankings of LIV players are almost laughable in many cases. Here are a few.
Paul Casey 26 to 625, Bryson De Chambeau 28 to 167 (two major top 10s in 2023), Dustin Johnson 15 to 218, Talor Gooch 35 to 394 (multiple wins on LIV), Sergio Garcia 57 to 575, Martin Kaymer 215 to 2,858, Kevin Na 34 to 788, Louis Oosthuizen 21 to 133, Thomas Pieters 35 to 268.
Golf Digest columnist Joel Beall raised this question amongst comments on various players. Rory McIlroy has been soso. FedEx Cup champion Viktor Hovland has struggled, Max Homa, who usually shines on the west coast, has missed the top 10 in five starts. Collin Morikawa has struggled and the expected Sunday battle between Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay was a dud. Then Scottie Scheffler, with the best ball striking stats since Tiger Woods in his prime, can’t rid himself of the putting woes. Seeing him tossing his putter and dropping to his knees after missed putts showed the frustration for the normally calm Scheffler.
Is it a coincidence that five of the tour’s first seven winners were outside the top 50 in the world rankings? The belief that when one star leaves he would be replaced by another may be waning.
Argentina former star Angel Cabrera was released last August after serving 30 months in prison for gender violence against two former partners. He has been cleared to play in PGA Tour sanctioned events. His first event was the Champions Tour event in Morocco in late February.
The 54-year-old will then compete in his first world ranked event in nearly five years, the Argentina Open on the Korn Ferry Tour. The winner will get a place in the 2024 Open Championship.
TV ratings for the Genesis Invitational fell five percent on last year when Jon Rahm won. The ratings were down from 3.4 to 3.2 million. The opening round with Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth only attracted 450,000, a 51 percent drop on last year. There were similar issues at the
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Meanwhile LIV at Mayakoba attracted 432,000 viewers.
Viewer reactions to these PGA Tour events have been varied with many slating the coverage as “boring”, “watching paint dry”, “watching a very slow car crash”, “all they showed was Tiger imploding”, “watching Tiger 26 shots behind the leader”, “really bad coverage.” Typical of many of the comments.
Tiger Woods’ much heralded 15-yearold son Charlie found the going tough at the pre qualifying event for the PGA Tour’s Cognizant Classic. The youngster’s efforts to play his first PGA Tour event came up a little short.
His round went like this. Preferred lies were in effect making the task easier along with cart use. He was four over after five holes followed by an unbelievable 12 on the par four seventh hole. Then came six consecutive pars before a double bogey on the par three 14th and bogeys on 15 and 16. He closed with pars on 17 and 18 for a 16 over par, a birdie free 86. There was no mention of whether Tiger was caddying for him.
The third New Zealand Hickory Open tees off at the Christchurch Golf Club on Sunday, March 10. This year’s event is hosted by Sir Bob Charles who won the event last year. It is played over a special 12-hole hickory layout. There is a 12hole morning round for the New Zealand Hickory Foursomes Championship while the 12-hole individual championship is played in the afternoon. The presentation and dinner commences at 6.30pm.
Men or women, professional or amateur, are eligible to enter. There are handicap limits, 18 for men and 30 for women. Higher handicappers wishing to play must play off those limits. Traditional attire on course is encouraged with prizes for the best dressed man and woman.
There is a programme of additional hickory events available from March 5-9. The tournament entry fee is $200 including the two course presentation dinner. Club hire is available for $60 per day.
By Neville Idour
Like it or not, youngsters are the lifeblood of the game of golf. Too many clubs forget that.
Dress codes can be a discouragement if a club requires dress slacks, shorts that cover the knees and knee high socks. What about the rare ones that still require a jacket and tie in the clubhouse? That is their choice.
I am certainly not encouraging sloppy untidy attire.
However when youngsters make their first steps on to a golf course surely a more relaxed approach to any dress code will encourage them to come again.
Some experiences we hear are cringeworthy. Clubs have the right to have a dress code and as such will bear the consequences.
Of course there are those dinosaur members who simply do not want young people on course annoying them.
A club in the area where I live, which shall remain nameless, introduced new policies for membership
this year on the back of plans to raise the club to the level of a top resort course.
Despite these just being plans our subscriptions were hiked 40 percent and there are no longer junior memberships available. Hence my son and grandson have not renewed their membership. To expect parents to pay a full senior membership for an eightyear-old is sending a message that the young are not welcome.
Responsible parents will teach their children how to behave on the golf course and guide them regarding dressing tidily and respectfully. Of course the really important things are letting adults play through, respect others on course, repair their pitch marks and divots and keep up a steady pace. These are the most important things.
One parent of three boys aged 6, 11 and 14 said his 14-year-old took some friends to play at their club and the professional could not have been more welcoming. He encouraged the son to bring his friends whenever he could at a guest rate. He was delighted
to see juniors enjoying golf and even lent one of the boys some clubs.
In complete contrast the son went to play a different course a week or two later with a friend who was a member. He was confronted on the first tee by the pro telling him he wasn’t dressed appropriately but he would let him play this time. He was wearing an Adidas golf jacket with hood, Nike golf joggers and golf shoes. Great welcome.
Believe it or not the friend’s father later received an email from the pro advising them to remind any friends about the dress code.
Another factor for some is the cost of clothing. Casual (not untidy or sloppy) golf gear can be worn on and off the course, in effect killing two birds with one stone.
It is important to remember that one bad experience may be the difference between a golfer for life or someone who will look elsewhere for their recreation or stay home on playstation.
Two different sporting codes united on the golf course last month to raise more than $17,000 for the region’s young rugby league players.
More than 110 golfers took to the inviting fairways and greens of The Pines Golf Club in Whangarei. Golfing teams came from as far away as Auckland to compete in the tournament, where they joined groups from Northland golf clubs out of Whangarei, Hikurangi, Ngunguru, Waitangi, Waipu, and Mangawhai, along with a healthy representation from home club members at The Pines.
Also among the playing fraternity were several former New Zealand and Samo-
an rugby league international representatives, including Duane Mann, Gary Prohm, Jerry Seuseu and Ali Lauiti’iti. Funds raised from the golf will be utilised by Rugby League Northland’s youth teams, both boys and girls, travelling to national tournaments throughout New Zealand.
The Legends of League golf tournament was run under a three-player ambrose team format and was won by a Whangarei team comprising David McDonald, Thomas McDonald, and Matt Dennis.
Event organiser and North Golf Association development officer Dave Mullan said the Legends of League golf event
showcased how different sporting codes could work together – under the auspices of the Northland Sports Coalition – not only keeping the population fit, but also enabling participants to enjoy social engagement through sports.
Mullan said: “We’ve had multiple charity fundraising events at The Pines over the years, which combined have attracted thousands of players, and it was highly encouraging to see dozens of new faces playing in the Legends of League tournament … golfers who have united their love of two sports all for a very worthy cause under a charitable umbrella doing good for the community.”
A charity auction at the event, con-
ducted by the highly entertaining Louis McDonald of Eves Real Estate, saw money rolling in from an enthusiastic crowd bidding on such highly collectible rugby league sporting memorabilia as:
* A signed Kiwis jersey which sold for $1300
* A signed Warriors jersey which sold for $750
* A signed Paramatta Eels jersey which sold for $400
* A pair of boots worn and signed by Kiwis and Penrith Panthers hard-man James Fisher Harris which sold for $500.
he bottom line for the golf ball rollback is that from 2028 the ball will be limited to travelling 290 metres (317 yards) with a swing speed of 201kph (125mph) for professional golfers. For amateurs the rule will apply in 2030.
The decision has been greeted with a variety of reactions from horror to about time.
World golf governing bodies The R&A and the United States’ Golf Association (USGA) are the organisations who are behind the decision.
Mike Whan, the USGA chief, has been at pains to quell the alarm from some quarters. He said: “We are not trying to stop distance gains, just slow down the pace of them. Nor is it to bring back older courses into hosting majors.”
Whan does not believe cutting up to 14 metres from the longest hitting male professionals and just five metres from the recreational players is anything to be up in arms about. He also realises that this will not stop players doing all they can to increase distance and that the biggest hitters will still be just that.
“If we do nothing now, in 15, 20, 25 years and we are another 20 metres lon-
ger we really can’t fix it in the short or longer time frame.”
So how have distances increased over time?
In 1995 players like longer hitters Ian Woosnam and Sandy Lyle were hitting their drives 240 to 260 metres. Today the longest hitters Cameron Champ, Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Cameron Young and others all average around 296 metres, give or take a metre or two. The average distance for an average male golfer is around 200 metres. Clearly distances increase over time as human strength, fitness and size increases.
The bifurcation of the ball, one for professionals and one for amateurs, makes no sense according to many. Why differentiate?
If an amateur plays in a professional tournament as many do, and on rare occasions have won, will they now have to use the amateur ball that does not go as far?
PGA Tour player Keegan Bradley says it will be major. He said: “It feels like the wrong time to be doing this when by 2028 the game may be starting to feel settled again.”
It is estimated the longest hitting professionals will lose up to 14 metres while
average hitters will lose 10 metres. Average swinging female professionals will lose six metres. As far as amateurs are concerned some say it is solving a problem that doesn’t exist in the amateur game. The average amateur male will lose four metres while the average female will lose two metres. Irrelevant surely.
The apparent stupidity of changing the ball for amateurs is starkly emphasised by the statistics. Apparently the average driving distance based on 20 million shots in 2018 for men was 226.4 yards yet by 2022 it had reduced to 225.9 yards. Same for women, 179 yards in 2018 down to 177 yards in 2022.
Rory McIlroy is not in favour of the rollback for amateurs but is in favour of it for professionals. Golf Channel’s Brandel Chamblee believes the governing bodies are out of touch with the average golfer. He maintains only a small number of people are in favour, a few tour players and former players compared to 50 million global golfers, 28,000 PGA of America members and most touring professionals against it.
“Let’s appreciate the athleticism of the best,” Chamblee said. Another golf scribe said: “The universal rollback is the equivalent of using a wrecking ball to crush an ant.”
Perhaps forgotten in this debate are the manufacturers. What is their response?
In most cases somewhat negative. One can only dream of the logistical challenges in producing two ranges of completely new balls for two markets. Will ball prices skyrocket?
Titleist called bifurcation “a solution in search of a problem.” Callaway said it would not have chosen to roll the ball back. Bridgestone preferred no impact for recreational players. TaylorMade said “The decision is disappointing. We feel the rollback is simply disconnected from what golfers believe is best for the game.”
So what will come next? Will the driver be the next target? The R&A and USGA are already looking at the possibility that
hitting the driver has become too easy for professionals. They might look at changing driver faces to ensure only clean centre of the face hits get the best results. The mind boggles at the dangers to spectators from off centre hits by all the big hitters and not so big if that happens.
However, a number of professionals would support a rollback of the driver. Lee Westwood and Adam Scott feel the heads have got too big and too forgiving. Scott said: “The ball is the ball but the driver has gone from being the hardest club to hit and now it is the most forgiving.”
So what do we make of all this? Is it too late to think a little longer on this whole issue? It is probably clear something has to be done. But does it have to be so drastic and cause so much angst and upheaval. As so many players, fans and others in the golf industry say, the game has never been better in so many ways.
When we consider the effect the changes are going to have, particularly for manufacturers and even golf courses with their setups would it not be simpler to just stop ball development for distance where it is now and do the same for drivers. Problem solved at least for the next few years.
When it comes to golf courses, super long is not the answer. Why can’t courses be set up for the top professional events so they don’t always reward the longest hitters? It isn’t difficult. Maybe narrow some fairways, some deeper bunkers, grow the rough, tight pin positions. Shorter, risk-reward par fours are always intriguing. At a recent Webex Series event in Australia the three leaders in the final round all bogeyed a short 300 metre par four. Who can forget The Open in 2023 when the relatively shorter hitting Brian Harman triumphed with skill at the wonderfully setup Royal Liverpool?
So there we have it … the pros and cons. If the current state of the game is okay then maybe the current ball and driver are also ok. Wouldn’t that save a lot of angst?
By Neville Idour
Christchurch golfer Cooper Moore has joined some illustrious company with the 2024
New Zealand Eagles’ Golf Society golfer of the year award at the Hastings Golf Club.
Dating back to 1967, the trophy sports such names as Sir Bob Charles, Phillip Tataurangi, Steven Alker, Lydia Ko, Danny Lee, Tim Wilkinson, Daniel Hillier, Amelia Garvey and Josh Geary.
Moore, 15, was invited to play in the Eagles society annual 36-hole tournament during the 2024 convention. He shot a personal best 63 at Hastings then an excellent 66 at Napier Golf Club. Other big names to have played in the event are Michael Campbell, Craig Perks, Gareth Paddison and Marilyn Smith.
The 15 societies throughout New Zealand each nominate players for the award, which is given to the outstanding junior boy or girl. The criteria obviously involves success on the course but also involves input from the coach, the district association and proving to be a good person. Moore certainly exhibits all the right qualities.
An seven percent increase in salaries for golf club staff in the United Kingdom has been recommended by a recognised group known as the committee for golf club salaries (CGCS).
With an increase in the national living wage due to come into force from April, to ensure all staff remain ahead of that base line, a nine percent increase has also been recommended for assistant greenkeeper salaries.
The increases have been added to the salary calculators provided on the CGCS website and take into account the national living wage increase, the prevailing economic environment and the importance of golf facility staff to the overall industry.
The salary calculators take into account geographic regions, facility size, core responsibilities, club rating, qualifications and experience, ensuring recommendations can be tailored to individual members of staff.
The CGCS is comprised of representatives of the British & International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association (BIGGA) and the Golf Club Managers’ Association (GCMA) alongside independent golf club experts.
While keen to impress the need for golf clubs to ensure staff are suitably paid and valued by their employers, the committee is also aware that employee
reward and retention must be balanced alongside the affordability and financial health of the business.
Commenting on the CGCS’s latest recommendations, John Pearson, membership services manager for BIGGA’s south east region, who represents BIGGA on the CGCS, said: “Our hope is that trained golf club staff take these recommendations to their senior management team and have open and professional conversations about salaries and other employee benefits, such as training and development opportunities.
“Highly trained staff are critical to the continuing success of golf, from the grass-roots through to elite championship level, and we were heartened to hear that more than 16 million people enjoyed playing some form of golf in the past year. Golf is experiencing a boom and these recommendations go some way towards recognising those who have helped make it possible.
“Today’s greenkeepers are highly trained, knowledgeable members of the golf club structure and if course standards are to be maintained at the level golfers have come to expect, the industry must be an attractive proposition with regards to salaries and working conditions to encourage the recruitment and retention of staff.”
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.
�ay to Novem�er indicated demand. assuming either or a family group �i.e. a minimum for two days� have the run of two days� ����� a couple �ut for two days� �reakfast make reservations transfer to the �account num�er secure a reservation. refunded in full if advance. Thereafter
book page which is regularly updated. The green fee of $75 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
* Provision of two free golf balls per player
* A course guide – the course designer and club champion
* Hosted free drinks and snacks after the round
Visit www.onekakalinks.com for a course guide also incorporating drone footage of the course and testimonials of visiting players. We also have a Face-
These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.
• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�
• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�
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, Onekakā Links is a must visit. I have played golf all around the world and Onekakā 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.”
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.
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. “
�ay to Novem�er indicated demand. assuming either or a family group �i.e. a minimum for two days� have the run of two days� ����� a couple �ut for two days� �reakfast make reservations transfer to the �account num�er secure a reservation. refunded in full if advance. Thereafter
• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.
- Kindest Regards, Bill Mackenzie (PGA Professional, St. Andrews East Golf Club, Canada)
morning to allow Normal Lodge out is �� am.
- CJ Kreuscher, Director of Agronomy for Te Arai Links and the original Superintendent of Tara iti, who recently played both courses.
These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.
“Onekakā 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
morning to allow Normal Lodge out is �� am.
three �edroom the Ōnekaka here to play golf, multitude of activities. water’s edge, it golf courses, the Golden �ay and kilometre of ith tidal and is teeming with groups of up to together or si� common lounge area e�tensive �ook throughout the cats that really like e�cept dogs.
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. Onekakā 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.
• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�
Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge is a three �edroom apartment in the upper level of the Ōnekaka Links �lu�house.
Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge is a three �edroom apartment in the upper level of the Ōnekaka Links �lu�house.
�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.
• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�
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
“Great day out at the Onekakā 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, WanakaŌnekaka offers the only onsite stay and play opportunity in the upper South Island and one of a very few in New Zealand
Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge is a three �edroom apartment in the upper level of the Ōnekaka Links �lu�house.
Ōnekaka Links Golf Lodge is a three �edroom apartment in the upper level of the Ōnekaka Links �lu�house.
These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.
These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.
These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.
These daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.
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
�hile most guests will come here to play golf, our remarka�le location offers a multitude of other indoor or outdoor activities.
�hile most guests will come here to play golf, our remarka�le location offers a multitude of other indoor or outdoor activities.
�hile most guests will come here to play golf, our remarka�le location offers a multitude of other indoor or outdoor activities.
Located only metres from the water’s edge, it has panoramic views of the two golf courses, the Ōnekaka �stuary and �iver, Golden �ay and �ahurangi National �ark, with a kilometre of water frontage access.
Located only metres from the water’s edge, it has panoramic views of the two golf courses, the Ōnekaka �stuary and �iver, Golden �ay and �ahurangi National �ark, with a kilometre of water frontage access.
• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.
�hile most guests will come here to play golf, our remarka�le location offers a multitude of other indoor or outdoor activities.
• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�
• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�
• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�
• ���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum of ���� per night and ����� for two days�
• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�
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
Located only metres from the water’s edge, it has panoramic views of the two golf courses, the Ōnekaka �stuary and �iver, Golden �ay and �ahurangi National �ark, with a kilometre of water frontage access.
• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�
Located only metres from the water’s edge, it has panoramic views of the two golf courses, the Ōnekaka �stuary and �iver, Golden �ay and �ahurangi National �ark, with a kilometre of water frontage access.
The vista changes �y the hour w ith tidal movements and the weather and is teeming with �ird and fish life
The vista changes �y the hour w ith tidal movements and the weather and is teeming with �ird and fish life
daily rates apply from �ay to Novem�er summer rates are �ased on indicated demand.
The vista changes �y the hour w ith tidal movements and the weather and is teeming with �ird and fish life
�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.
The vista changes �y the hour w ith tidal movements and the weather and is teeming with �ird and fish life
���� a �edroom per night assuming either three couples, si� individuals or a family group occupy the entire apartment �i.e. a minimum ���� per night and ����� for two days� couple ���� a night to have the run of place ����� minimum for two days�
The accommodation suits family groups of up to eight, three couples travelling together or si� individuals
The accommodation suits family groups of up to eight, three couples travelling together or si� individuals
The accommodation suits family groups of up to eight, three couples travelling together or si� individuals
The accommodation suits family groups of up to eight, three couples travelling together or si� individuals
�ll �edrooms open onto a common lounge area with T� and a kitchenette. �ur e�tensive �ook collection is distri�uted throughout the apartment.
Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter will �e refunded.
�ll �edrooms open onto a common lounge area with T� and a kitchenette. �ur e�tensive �ook collection is distri�uted throughout the apartment.
�ll �edrooms open onto a common lounge area with T� and a kitchenette. �ur e�tensive �ook collection is distri�uted throughout the apartment.
�ll �edrooms open onto a common lounge area with T� and a kitchenette. �ur e�tensive �ook collection is distri�uted throughout the apartment.
�e have three very socia�le cats that really like chatting up all our visitors, e�cept dogs.
�e have three very socia�le cats that really like chatting up all our visitors, e�cept dogs.
�e have three very socia�le cats that really like chatting up all our visitors, e�cept dogs.
• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�
• �ne couple ���� a night to have the run of the place ����� minimum for two days�
• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.
• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.
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
• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.
• Two couples ���� a night ����� a couple �ut each with a �athroom� ����� for two days� �ll tariffs include a continental �reakfast �lease email chris�widespread.co.n� to make reservations for the Lodge. �ayment �y �ank transfer to the Ōnekaka Links �S� account �account num�er �� ���� ������� ��� will secure a reservation. �ancelled �ookings will �e refunded in full if notified at least �� days in advance. Thereafter ��� will �e refunded.
�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.
�e have three very socia�le cats that really like chatting up all our visitors, e�cept dogs.
standard tee time is mid morning to allow for course preparation. Normal Lodge in is after � pm and check out is �� am.
�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.
�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.
�ur standard tee time is mid morning to allow time for course preparation. Normal Lodge check in is after � pm and check out is �� am.
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
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
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
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
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
Q) Devlyn, what got you keen on
Long Drive?
I have been a keen golfer since I was a kid and I knew from quite young that I was able to drive the ball a fair distance but it wasn’t until one of my mates mentioned to me at the start of 2023 that I should give a long drive a try. I started watching and researching a bit and realized that I could definitely be interested in giving a long drive a go. He also offered to help me with travel and he paid for my entry into the North Island Champs in November.
(Q) Are you a golfer as well?
Yes I am a golfer. I try to play at least once a week. I am a member of Northland Golf Club and play off an 8 handicap.
(Q) What are your obstacles with the sport of Long Drive?
At the moment my biggest obstacle would have to be affordability as I am a full time student sitting my degree in Sport and Recreation. And am also the father of 3 boys, 2 of whom I have on a
week on week off basis and also a baby of 10 months so that and being able to afford the equipment that I would need, The cost of using the facilities I would need to train for competition and also travel and entry fees into competitions is a massive obstacle for me.
(Q) How often do you train?
At the moment I am working on my body and healing a couple of small injuries I have as well as losing a bit of weight. But I would be doing swing work 2 times a week at home and also using the simulator at The Golf Shop whenever I can afford to.
(Q) What are your strengths and weaknesses?
I have a decent swing and can swing a golf club rather quickly. I can also hit a ball quite far.
I am very determined to achieve the goals I set myself.
I am willing to go the extra mile and put in the hard yards.
I do suffer from a few injuries that I am getting sorted and am healing at the moment.
I find it a bit difficult sometimes to make time for myself and my training especially with studying and having my kids.
(Q) If you had a facility nearby would you train frequently to compete?
There are some facilities in Whangarei at The Golf Shop and I also go to the gym. For me it’s more a matter of affordability to be able to use the facilities. As I am a student and have 3 sons it can be a bit difficult to pay that extra and make that extra time for myself to train.
Celebrating BEST Sporting League New Zealand 2023 with a backto-back Trans Tasman Clash. The New Zealand Long Blacks and Aussie Long Ballers are at the heart of the sports success. Originals dated back to 2017 landmarked sports history at Stonecutters Ridge Golf Course, NSW, Australia, the first Greg Norman’s course in AU. Both teams famously reside on the wall of fame with the Aussie Long Ballers taking the first win of the Darren Wise Stingray, hand crafted by Darren specially to mark this historic event, now famous. This November the teams are taking to NEW heights and going off grid to Parakai Airfield with a super extravaganza planned on and off the tarmac and greens.
The West Auckland Airfield is a very exciting venue for the back-to-back TTC. All systems go with clearance from Air Traffic Control for the two day event. This is a very exciting time for the sport and given it’s NOT GOLF, XDL and its athletes are set to DRIVE on some special locations.
XDL founder, teams and event owner, Olna Ford says, 2024 represents a celebration of 8 years dedicated to getting the sport seen and the teams profiled. Success includes 38 events completed in 8 countries, official rec-
ognition by sports authorities 2020, a Halberg nomination in 2021, a Queen’s Honour for top XDL Women’s Champion Phillis Meti 2022 and Winners of BEST Sporting League New Zealand 2023 with APAC Business Awards. This November the teams will be at the forefront of media and the sports business developments including the much anticipated DRIVEPODS.
THE TEAMS
The shirts are ready with some of the players already announced. In celebration of the Originals the Teams are set to have a few come-back appearances. The Captains Jason Atkins (Aussie Long Ballers) and Paul West (New Zealand Long Blacks) will be two names hot in the media light with the TTC campaign to start in March. SMG Cricket Brett is the designer of the team’s shirts, the most breathable materials used for these hard hitting athletes. With demand for these jerseys from our fans the expectation is to have these and other team merchandise available for purchase.
The Aussie Long Ballers and New Zealand Long Blacks will be going beyond the Xtreme and taking to the SKIES with SKYDIVE Auckland in celebrating sports history and the amazing
success that resides in Parakai, West Auckland Airfield. The players are feeling the adrenaline already. Skydive Auckland is WORLD famous for many reasons below is just a few reasons why.
Skydive Auckland 18,000ft, highest skydive in the Southern Hemisphere.
New Zealand Skydiving School The only Diploma in Skydiving in the world. 32 weeks, 200 skydives, excellent employment rate, worldwide work experience opportunities. Fees Free (for those that qualify).
Social media @SkydiveAuckland @ NZSkydivingSchool
Be part of this year’s Trans Tasman Clash and support your team. Our website www.xdlworldwide.com will be updated from 20th March where the whats on and team information can be seen. Get your game face on for this star-studded extravaganza and come celebrate with us!
This Odyssey Ai-ONE Cruiser Line offers three distinct configurations for three different styles of putting (Cruiser, Arm Lock and Broomstick). All these putters feature our Ai-ONE insert which delivers more consistent ball speeds, even from off- center hits, leaving putts closer to the hole.
FEATURES & BENEFITS
AI-ONE INSERT
Designed using Artificial Intelligence, we’ve created contours on the Aluminum backer of the insert which we co-mold to a White Hot Urethane striking surface to promote consistent ball speed across the face
with the classic White Hot feel that Tour players and amateurs love.
Ai WINDOW
Our designers and engineers developed a Panlite window, which is a unique automotive grade polymer, that allows us to showcase the unique topology of the back of our insert.
SL 140 AND 200 SHAFTS
These heavier steel shafts are designed to complement the heavier heads, longer grips and longer overall lengths of these models.
UNIQUE NAVY BLUE PVD
FINISH
These putters all feature a beautiful navy blue PVD finish that really sets them apart and gives them a premium look.
INTERCHANGEABLE FRONT WEIGHTS
Available in 5, 10, 15 and 20 grams these removable weights allow you to dial in your head weight to your exact preference.
AI-ONE CRUISER
MODEL DESCRIPTIONS
#7 CRUISER: The Ai-ONE #7 CRUISER is an iconic shape
and a modern classic with an angular design that makes it very easy to align. This version has a 380-gram head and is built at 38” with a 17” grip intended to be choked up on. This configuration makes this face balanced putter extremely stable. This putter features our Ai-ONE insert with an aluminum backer and White Hot urethane striking surface and our new SL 140 Stroke Lab steel shaft.
Double Wide: The Ai-ONE Double Wide CRUISER is a wider bodied blade that has become very popular with Tour players and amateur golfers alike. This version has a 380gram head and is built at 38” with a 17” grip intended to be choked up on. This configuration makes this putter extremely stable. This putter features our Ai-ONE insert with an aluminum backer and White Hot urethane striking surface and our new SL 140 Stroke Lab steel shaft.
Jailbird: The Jailbird CRUISER is a classic Odyssey shape that made a major splash on Tour last year. This version has a 380-gram head and is
built at 38” with a 17” grip intended to be choked up on. This configuration makes this face balanced putter extremely stable. This putter features our Ai-ONE insert with an aluminum backer and White Hot urethane striking surface and our new SL 140 Stroke Lab steel shaft.
#7 Arm Lock: The Ai-ONE #7 Arm Lock is an iconic shape and a modern classic with an angular design that makes it very easy to align. This version has a 380-gram head and is built at 42” with an Arm Lock grip intended to be rested on your forearm. This configuration makes this face balanced putter extremely stable. This putter features our Ai-ONE insert with an aluminum backer and White Hot urethane striking surface and our new SL 140 Stroke Lab steel shaft.
#7 CS Broomstick: The AiONE #7 CS Broomstick is an iconic shape and a modern classic with an angular design that makes it very easy to align. This version has a 450-gram head and is built at 48” with a split Broomstick grip. This configuration makes
this center shafted putter extremely stable. This putter features our Ai-ONE insert with an aluminum backer and White Hot urethane striking surface and our new SL 200 Stroke Lab steel shaft. callawaygolf.com
Combining short-game-changing performance with industry-leading fitting software, PING introduced the s159 wedge series today, its next generation of specialty wedges engineered to bring golfers more spin and control into and around greens.
The tour-proven s159 wedges are offered in 25 loft/grind combinations and are available for custom fitting and pre-sell beginning today at authorized PING golf shops around the world.
“The new wedges represent our most extensive and versatile wedge line to date, significantly advancing wedge performance and expanding fitting options,” said John K. Solheim, PING CEO & President. “They are already winning on Tour and we’re seeing a lot of players converting to them around the world. They love the clean look, the soft feel and, most importantly, the ability to launch and spin their shots with precise control. With six grinds designed to perform in a variety of playing conditions and techniques, we have a wedge to fit every golfer.”
“In conjunction with the new wedges, we’re excited to introduce the WebFit Wedge app. It’s a web-based app engineered to help golfers find the best grinds and gapping solutions for their games. It’s a quick and easy experience to help golfers cut through a lot of the confusion associated with buying wedges, ultimately making a recommendation on which s159 wedges will allow them to greatly improve their performance around the greens.” https://wedge.webfit.ping.com/en/
Extensive testing with PING tour players helped create a wedge series that will appeal to golfers of all abilities. The 8620 carbon steel head is cast to an eye-pleasing shape with a straighter lead edge, a design feature especially beneficial on full shots. An elastomer insert behind the face contributes to the soft and responsive feel. At address, the compact head features an improved hosel transition with constant offset that blends seamlessly into the new Blueprint S and T irons. The s159 wedges are available in two performance-enhancing finishes in all 25 loft/grind combinations. Golfers can choose PING’s proven Hydropearl 2.0 chrome finish or Midnight, a new darker option that provides an attractive, anti-glare appearance.
Wheel-cut grooves are preci-
sion-milled to help ensure consistency while minimizing the variations in spin in various conditions, leading to more control. The 54-to-62-degree options feature more tightly spaced MicroMax grooves. The 46-to-52-degree wedges are milled for greater control on full shots. In combination with a friction-adding face blast, the s159 wedges deliver the launch and spin control to execute score-lowering wedge shots from every distance.
From a spin comparison standpoint, the s159 wedges deliver strong results in the company’s much acclaimed “wet to dry” test. Performed in a controlled environment hitting 50-yard shots indoors with moisture applied to the face and ball, it’s a key factor in validating on-course performance.
“Our R&D team has gained a lot of notoriety for this test, which has revealed remarkable performance results when applied to our last several wedge models,” Solheim said. “A lot of fitters refer to it as the ‘spray-bottle test.’ The s159 consistently leads in the wet testing, out-performing other wedges. Considering it’s rare when a shot doesn’t encounter some level of moisture or loss of friction, this type of control provides a clear and convincing short-game advantage.”
The WebFit Wedge app provides golfers a quick and easy way to determine the wedge grind that best fits their game. Golfers answer a series of questions about their short game, including their typical playing conditions and technique, which results in two grind suggestions. They can then take those recommendations to a fitter who can help validate them and further finetune the specs of the wedge. The app, which takes just a few minutes to complete, also provides gapping information to help the player build out their wedge set.
“It’s no secret shopping for wedges can be confusing as golfers try to understand all the nuances of a wedge’s design and what’s best for them,” said Solheim. “With our new WebFit Wedge app, our goal is to simplify the process of finding a wedge that fits the golfer while also educating them why a particular grind is best for them. It was developed in-house by our data scientists and relies on our massive collection of wedge data, much of it mined from our relationship with Arccos, to make very precise recommendations.”
“The app doesn’t require download-
ing, logging in or signing up for anything. It’s a very simple experience but very rewarding for users. It will be accessible via a QR code in golf shops and on ping.com. We strongly encourage golfers to engage the app in their wedge-buying process.”
New “H” or Half-Moon Grind: A shot-saving option for players with steeper angles of attack who like to manipulate the handle and play with versatility. It performs best in softer conditions. Available in 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°
New “B” Grind: For a shallow angle of attack and neutral face delivery. Low-bounce design sits low on the turf on square-face shots, providing forgiveness via the sole width to deliver score-lowering performance in firmer conditions. Available in 58°, 60°
“T” Grind: The most versatile option allows players to manipulate the face for shot-making precision around the greens. Ideal for medium to firm turf conditions, includes a 62-degree option at the request of our tour pros for more versatility. Available in 58°, 60°, 62° (new)
“W” Grind: Maximum forgiveness through the turf. Best fits a steep angle of attack who might also have a lot of handle lean and a player who prefers the look of a specialty wedge but relies on a little more forgiveness in their scoring clubs. Available in 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°
“E” or Eye2 Grind: Continues to be the ultimate bunker club, carrying on a 40-year tradition of helping golfers get up and down from the sand. It plays with relatively low bounce on square or slightly open face shots. Available in 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°
“S” Grind: Fits a wide variety of conditions and techniques. Designed with ample bounce in the mid-section to play full shots and provides greenside versatility due to heel/trail edge relief. New 48-degree option helps in gapping. Available in 46°, 48° (new), 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°
S159 SPECIFICATIONS
Material/Manufacturing Process: 8620 carbon steel head; elastomer insert; precision-milled face and grooves; hydropearl 2.0 chrome or Midnight finish
STOCK SHAFTS: PING Z-Z115 wedge; PING Alta CB Black (SR, R, S)
OPTIONAL STOCK SHAFTS: PING
AWT 2.0 (R, S, X), Dynamic Gold (S300, X100), Dynamic Gold Mid 100 (R300, S300), Dynamic Gold 105 (R300, S300), Dynamic Gold Mid 115 (S300, X100), Dynamic Gold 120 (S300, X100), KBS Tour (R, S, X), Nippon N.S. Pro Modus3 105 (R, S, X), Elevate MPH 95 (R, S), UST Recoil Dart 65 (A), 75 (R, S), ALTA Quick (35, 45)
STOCK GRIP: PING 360 Dyla-Wedge Lite grip
Get Custom fitted today. For your nearest Ping Dealer contact Sports Network Ltd 0508 776 786.
Five new models and the ability to personalize each design through an on-line customizer tool represent the newest additions to the Putting Lab Design (PLD) program.
The 2024 PLD Milled Anser, Anser 2D, Oslo 3, DS72 and Ally Blue 4 are available at PING authorized retailers committed to selling premium, custom-fit putters. The on-line customizer tool is available on ping.com. ping.com/en-us/clubs/putters/pldmilled-plus
“We’ve been very pleased with the results and feedback across the entire PLD program,” said Solheim. “It allows us to bring golfers more of what we do best – design and build the highest-performing putters in the game. A key part of the program is the PLD Milled series, which offers premium-milled putters inspired by tour players to bring golfers the latest in score-lowering performance on the green. These five new designs continue that commitment and offer every golfer a model to fit their stroke and eye.”
“The launch of PLD Milled Plus is an exciting program that allows golfers to further personalize their putters in fun and statement-making ways. It’s a great conversation starter and brings them one step closer to that tour-player experience so many golfers desire.”
The five new PLD Milled models represent a combination of standard-setting favorites like the Anser and newer, tour-proven models like the DS72, the choice of 2023 FedExCup Champion Viktor Hovland. The Anser 2D and Oslo 3 are tour-influenced, high-MOI designs and the Ally Blue 4 is a new, multi-material mallet that delivers exceptional forgiveness with can’t-miss alignment features.
Four of the new models (Anser, Anser 2D, DS72 and Oslo 3) are fully machined from forged, 303 stainless steel and each is distinguished by an attractive gunmetal finish. The deep AMP (Aggressive Milling Pattern) face technology on all the models is employed for tour-preferred sound, feel and speed. More than four hours of milling time are required for every model, precisely shaping every surface and radius to achieve the high quality and premium look expected in a precision-milled putter.
The Ally Blue 4 is a fully machined, three-piece design differentiated by its square footprint and full-length top alignment aid. The strong-arc design consists of an aluminum body, stainless steel soleplate and aluminum hosel to create an extremely high-MOI, easy-to-align mallet. The gunmetal finish contrasts with a matte black body and hosel to create a stunning, confidence- inspiring design.
“Part of our goal with the PLD program is to offer our most popular models from the past and add new, tour-influenced designs on a regular
basis,” Solheim said. “This year’s additions represent an exciting balance of that strategy. As we collaborate on new designs with our engineers and tour staff through the PLD program, we’ll expand the line to ensure golfers have access to our newest technologies and processes.”
In a continuing effort to help golfers create personalized, eye-catching putters through the various PLD programs, the 2024 models can be further distinguished with preferred alignment aids, paint fill, custom graphics and paint-filled grips. Known as PLD Milled Plus (U.S. MSRP: $585), golfers utilize a customizer tool on ping.com to design their one-of-a-kind putter.
During the process, golfers can choose multiple, single or no alignment feature on four of the models (except Ally Blue 4). The top rail can be customized with either a dot or line while the cavity floor offers full-length alignment line assistance. They can be painted the same color, different colors or left unpainted. Same goes for the PING and PLD logos on all the models.
Multiple laser-etched graphics on all five models let golfers show their allegiance to PING (dancing or single Mr. PING logos) or the United States (Stars and Stripes). For those who have supreme confidence in their putting, the money sign might be the best bet.
A painted-filled PING logo on the grip further differentiates the putter from the others. Blue, gold, green, orange, red, pink, yellow, purple, white and blackout are available to complete the design.
At the end of the process, golfers take their unique design specifications to an authorized PING PLD Milled Plus retailer who places the order with PING’s customization specialists at company headquarters in Phoenix, where the design is brought to life.
“The customizer was designed to be relatively easy, allowing the golfer to experiment with different ideas throughout the process,” said Solheim. “With all the alignment options and combinations, we wanted to have a performance benefit as part of the experience. After that, it’s all about color, custom graphics and creating a putter they call their own. They can keep it simple or take full advantage of all the options. We’re looking forward to seeing what people come up with.”
Ally Blue 4
All-new fully machined, three-piece design. The aluminum body, aluminum hosel and stainless-steel soleplate create a high-MOI, easy-to-align mallet.
370g
Strong Arc
Loft: 3° (+3°/-2°)
Lie Angle: 20° (+-4°)
Std. Grip: PP58 Tour L
Std. Shaft: Matte-black Stepless Steel
Aluminum body and hosel, stainless steel soleplate
PLD Milled Plus options: Paint fill, custom graphics, paint-filled grip
Anser
The winningest putter in golf history gets a new white sight line in the cavity and the gunmetal finish. The new PING Composite putter shaft is standard in this slight arc model.
350g
Slight Arc
Loft: 3° (+3°/-2°)
Lie Angle: 20° (+-4°)
Std. Grip: PP58 Tour M
Std. Shaft: PING Composite
PLD Milled Plus options: Custom sightlines, paint fill, custom graphics, paint-filled grip
The Anser 2D model gained notoriety with Tony Finau’s success. The slightly deeper, perimeter-weighted design features clean heel-toe ballasts to aid in alignment, and a sightline in
the cavity.
365g
Slight Arc
Loft: 3° (+3°/-2°)
Lie Angle: 20° (+-4°)
Std. Grip: PP58 Tour L
Std. Shaft: PING Composite
PLD Milled Plus options: Custom sightlines, paint fill, custom graphics, paint-filled grip
DS72
The DS72, preferred design of Viktor Hovland, fits into the mid-mallet category, a face-balanced model distinguished by a wide top rail and ballwidth cavity created by its clean heel and toe ballasts.
365g
Straight stroke
Loft: 3° (+3°/-2°)
Lie Angle: 20° (+-2°)
Std. Grip: PP58 Tour M
Std. Shaft: Black Chrome Stepless Steel
PLD Milled Plus options: Custom sightlines, paint fill, custom graphics, paint-filled grip
Oslo 3
Shares the attributes of the Tyrrell Hatton-influenced mallet but with an Anser 3-style hosel that makes it a slight arc putter. Its light aluminum hosel helps position weight low to optimize the center of gravity for improved consistency and accuracy.
375g
Slight Arc
Loft: 3° (+3°/-2°)
Lie Angle: 20° (+-4°)
Std. Grip: PP58 Tour L
Std. Shaft: PING Composite
PLD Milled Plus options: Custom sightlines, paint fill, custom graphics, paint-filled grip
Get Custom fitted today. For your nearest Ping Dealer contact Sports Network Ltd 0508 776 786.
Cup winner Michele Cathie, with finalists Fay Ford and Marina Gopperth. A great haul for the country club!
A great day recently at Hawera for the Long Drive Championship 370m
Professional men - Nick Hanna. 370 (personal/competition record)
Open men - Ryan Pranked. 338m
Woman’s Open - Samaria Pearson. 264m
Over 45yrs men - Barrie Diederiks 299m
MASTERS & HOROWHENUA
OPEN 2024
Masters & Horowhenua Open 2024
Shatters Expectations with a Staggering Field of 102 Entries, Showcasing Talent from South Korea to Kilbirnie.
In a testament to resilience and community spirit, the Masters & Horowhenua Open 2024 triumphed over adversity, thanks to the unwavering efforts of Geoff
Beaumont and his dedicated greenkeeping team from the Levin Golf Club. Faced with a water crisis that lasted five days leading into the tournament, the course was on the brink, putting the event in jeopardy. Beaumont and his team worked tirelessly to revive the greens, saving the tournament from potential cancellation. The Levin Golf Club committee rallied together, ensuring that players were well looked after and the event ran well, showcasing the true spirit of collaboration in the face of challenges.
A whopping 102 players showcased their golfing prowess across various divisions. The tournament featured Masters divisions for both men and women, along with Open divisions for both. A promising sign with a number of junior golfers added a youthful flair to the competition, proving that the future of the sport is in capable hands. Jonno Cane, hailing from Wellington’s Manor Park Golf Sanctuary, clinched the title of Men’s Masters Champion, while Lisa Herbert of Feilding Golf Club emerged victorious as the Women’s
Masters Champion. The Open division saw joint champions from South Korea and the Zenith coaching program, with Junhwan In and Seunghui Ha claiming the Men’s and Women’s titles, respectively.
Canterbury’s premier golf action concluded recently as the 2024 Canterbury Stroke Play lived up to expectations. Playing at Christchurch Golf Club the players and spectators were treated to immaculate course conditions showcasing arguably one of the best courses in the region.
Saturday morning delivered some unusually cold February conditions, but the golf action was anything but cold with some extremely hot scoring displayed in round 1 with players looking to set a high standard from the outset as they chased the respective titles. Clearwater’s Sam McGill recorded the best round with an incredible 7 under round of 65 to top the
Men’s Open division. Another remarkable round was also produced by Coringa’s Drew Butcher who carded a 6 under round of 66 to sit in second place. He was followed by Otago’s Ricky Kang and Auckland’s Robbie Turnbull with rounds of 68 as part of 17 men’s players overall that shot under par in the cool but still morning conditions. This also included 4 men’s masters players with Bottle Lake’s Kieran Sharvin who shot an impressive 3 under par 69 with Rich Sinclair (70), Jonny Stieller (71), and John Rademakers (71) all also breaking par to top the Master’s division through round 1.
In the Women’s Open, it was the Auckland pairing and top seeds Chloe Lam and Juwon Kim who set the early pace each recording 3 under rounds of 71. Russley and Canterbury representative Alisia Ren also managed to match the course with a par round of 74 with Angeline Loh (75), Aroha Minhinnick (76), and Yoonae Jeong (78) all within touching distance of the leaders. In the Women’s Masters, Rachel Eder took the lead with her round of 83 to have a 5-shot lead over Rangiora’s Jo Kent.
The afternoon however brought some different and far more challenging conditions as the wind picked up and dark black/purple clouds surrounded the north of the course. The feeling around the tournament was that any score close to par in the afternoon would be a good effort and set players up nicely in the Championship event. This proved to be the case with just one player in Reid Hil-
ton breaking par with his round of 71 to bring him into a tie for 5th. Ricky Kang, Cooper Moore, Mike Toeke, and Ben Patston were all also able to record par rounds of 72 to keep themselves in contention. 2nd place Drew Butcher was unable to match his morning performance and dropped down the table, but Sam McGill was able to hang tough with a 2 over round to keep him on top of the Men’s leaderboard with a one-shot lead at 5 under from Ricky Kang who was 4 under and Robbie Turnbull and Kieran Sharvin who sat two shots further back at -2.
Sharvin was able to back up in his morning performance to record a 1-over round to stay 2 under par and extend his lead in the Masters division from one shot to 6 with no other Masters player able to match his round. John Rademakers managed a 5 over 77 to cap off his solid day and leave him in second place while Christchurch’s Alisdair Reid matched his morning round of 76 to sit in 3rd alongside Tyrone Nelson (Greenacres) and Leith Campion (Gore) who all sat at 8 over for the tournament through 2 rounds.
In the ladies’ division, round 2 scoring was much harder across the board. The best rounds of the afternoon were recorded by Rangiora’s Sora Kishida and Yoonae Jeong who both shot 78 which lifted them to 7th and 5th respectively on the leaderboard. Leaders Lam and Kim both shot 80 to leave them +3 for the tournament but still top of the leaderboard. Three shots further back were
Angeline Loh from Titirangi who shot a round of 79 to leave herself in 3rd place with Waimairi Beach’s Aroha Minhinnick sitting in 4th place following her round of 79. In the Women’s Masters division, Eder kept her 5-shot lead following her round of 94 with all the ladies recording rounds in the 90’s as they battled the tough afternoon conditions. Lynn Brand (Harewood) recorded their best score with her 90.
Day 2 the tournament went and the final round with the Men’s division leaving many players in contention with 8 players within 5 shots of leader Sam McGill.
In the Women’s division, there were also many players still left in contention, Lam and Kim both holding 3 shot lead over the chasing pack which consisted of 4 players within 5 shots. In the Master’s divisions, Kieran Sharvin appeared in control with his 6-shot lead as did Eder with her 5-shot lead both players looking to finish the job.
A very hot day presented itself in stark contrast to the afternoon prior, presenting a different challenge to the players, and as expected the players came out fighting for the titles. In the Men’s Open things were very tight throughout the entire day with overnight leader McGill staying around par through the first few holes but then making a few bogeys before the turn to sit at 3 over for his round and 2 under for the tournament. Those bogies combined with Robby Turnbull birdying the 9th to sit at 1 under for his round resulted in a leader change as he moved to 3 under for the tournament.
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s natural beauty, Ōtaki Golf Club beckons golf enthusiasts to a captivating 18-hole course. With its lush fairways, greens that will seldom disappoint, and panoramic vistas, it’s a haven for players seeking both leisure and challenge. Beyond golf, the club fosters a warm community spirit, welcoming both members and visitors to enjoy camaraderie and memorable moments. Experience golfing excellence amid nature’s embrace at Ōtaki Golf Club, where every swing is a step closer to bliss.
Reefton’s Mike Toeke and Clearwater’s Cooper Moore also kept up the pressure as they stayed at 1under and even respectively for their rounds through 9 holes to sit 2 shots back of Turnbull. The final 9 holes then would determine the 2024 Stoke Play Men’s Champion with 17-year-old Turnbull looking to hold off McGill and any possible late charge of Toeke and Moore, however Turnbull was up to the task extending his lead to two shots as he stepped up to the 18th tee. Making par he claimed the title with a 2 under round eventuating in a 4 under tournament score. Toeke and Moore fin-
ished in 2nd and 3rd respectively as they finished at 2 under with McGill dropping back to 4th with a bogey on 18 to finish at 1 under par for the event.
Pictured below: Men’s Final group (left to right- Robbie Turnbull, Reid Hilton and Ricky Kang.)
In Men’s masters division Sharvin went wire-to-wire in convincing fashion. With his 6-shot lead, the pressure was on chaser Rademakers who was the closest player to Irishman Sharvin, also in the final group was Reid and Nelson a further 4 shots back who would have needed a lot to go their way to claim the title. As
it played out, Sharvin maintained his composure and at one stage was within 2 shots of leader Turnbull for the overall Men’s title, but with a couple of bogeys on the back nine he finished with a 4 over round of 76 to finish at +2 for the event and claim the trophy for the first time. In a late charge, Gore’s Leith Campion had the best round of the division with his par 72 round to move from 6th overnight to an eventual 2nd place finish at +8 for the tournament. Rademakers who was solid throughout rounded out the Men’s Masters podium with his final round 79 to finish at +11 for the event, one ahead of defending champion Andrew Hobbs at +12.
In the women’s event, it was a relatively straightforward finish with the chasing pack unable to make any huge gains as the third and final round played out, leaving Lam and Kim to battle it out for the title. The scoring was largely very even between the pair through the earlier holes with both players slightly above par however through 9 holes Lam was able
to establish a 2-shot lead as she turned at 4 over for the tournament and Kim back at 6 over. As it turned out that 2-shot lead remained through the final 9 holes with Lam who eventually finished with a round of 77 taking the title with Kim just two shots back with her round of 79. Further down, the biggest leaderboard movement however came from Canterbury youngsters Alisia Ren and Sora Kishida. Ren recorded a division-best round of 76 to move from 5th place overnight into third 3rd place while Kishida with her round of 78 moved from 7th to 4th. Much of this movement was a result of both Loh (3rd overnight) and Minhinnick (4th overnight) shooting rounds of 81 and 80 respectively.
Finally, in the Women’s master’s division, Eder was able to maintain who comfortable lead to claim the title winning by 12 shots. Having led by 5 going into the day Eder shot 86 which with all of her fellow division players shooting 93 widen the margin of victory. All of the oth-
er players were very close together with Lynn Brand and Belinda Richards finishing at +53 and Kent just one shot further back. Brand took out 2nd on countback and also claimed the Masters Net prize.
The Jackman Salver will remain in the clutches of the Town side until at least October this year.
A dominant performance played in near-perfect conditions enabled the Town ladies to make it four in a row at Greenacres Country Club today.
The Silver Quartet got off to a flying start for the hosts, winning all four matches in the morning’s foursomes before team Country fought back, winning three on their side of the fixture and keeping it close with a 5-3 scoreline at lunch.
The after-noon single matches followed a similar pattern, with the Silver division dominated by Town 6.5 - 1.5 and their Bronze teammates getting it back to even honours for the day, edging the single matches against Country 5-3.
The final result favoured Town 16.57.5, leaving Country with a bit of work to do before they host the 2024 fixture in October.
Sarah Pearson, Mairi Raby, Jane Parker, Janie Reese, Jo Booker Jackie Hamilton, Kelly Mackenzie, and Jo Neep spent a total of 15 hours across Millbrook Resort, where they played the 36-hole course, and Arrowtown golf course, completing the 18-hole course twice, as part of The Longest Day challenge raising money for Cancer Society.
It’s the third consecutive year that the women — with some slightly different members each year — have participated in the event. While they’ve all been affected in some way by cancer, the latest day on the course was a particularly poignant one for Jo Neep, who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2017 and was too sick to join in last year. She says living with her treatable but incurable cancer is a mental and physical challenge.
“I am both touched and proud that my golfing buddies are continuing the effort to raise funds for the Cancer Society,” she said.
Arrowtown She Loves Golf coach Janie Reese said the women were particularly
grateful to the two golf clubs supporting them with accessible tee-times, carts, and sponsored green fees. She said that without Millbrook Resort Golf Club and Arrowtown Golf Club’s assistance, The Birdies wouldn’t have been able to achieve their goal - which to date has raised more than $9,000 for the Cancer Society.
The Birdies are also indebted to their support crew, with them from dawn till dusk, who kept them hydrated and fuelled. Reese said The Birdies dressed in Hawaiian-themed attire to represent the many bright and variable attributes and attitudes which a support crew can bring to a cancer patient.
To donate further to The Birdies and their endeavours, click on the website longestday.org.nz/t/the-birdies-team
An overseas golfer on holiday in New Zealand, and who suffered a serious heart attack at Arrowtown’s Millbrook Resort, can thank a handily-placed defibrillator, a golf pro’, a retired nurse who administered CPR, and emergency re-
sponse personnel, for saving his life.
An Irishman aged in his late-60s, who was a guest at the Central Otago golfing resort last month, had just left the venue’s driving range when he collapsed in a golf cart.
Millbrook member Bridget Mee, a former nurse who was a few metres away, saw the golfer “slumped down the side of the cart”, took the defibrillator off the driving range wall and shocked the patient back to life with assistance from bystanders… including golf coach Ben Gallie who was taking instructions on the phone from emergency services to: “keep doing CPR even if you think he (the patient) is breathing.” Course assistant superintendent Ollie Nilsson also administered CPR.
Coaching out of Millbrook Resort with its pristine golf courses, Ben Gallie has been head coach of the Otago men’s’ golf team for the past six years, is lead coach for the Wakatipu Junior Golf Club, and has been involved with coaching youngsters at Wakatipu High School which has been a prominent squad in the Otago inter-collegiate competition for the past eight years.
Mee says: “It was definitely the shock that saved [the patient’s] life. Everyone did a great job.”
Ambulance officers attended the incident, and the international patient was subsequently transported by the air ambulance to Dunedin Hospital where he was treated and duly discharged to begin recovery.
Millbrook director of operations Brian Howie said that having the heart resuscitation equipment so readily available: “Shows the importance of a defibrillator, and also just the way everybody was there and just went about doing their job and obviously saved this guy’s life.” The defibrillator was installed at the golfing resort about 18-months ago.
The annual Aorangi Golf Waitangi Day tournament took place in Farilie with some good scoring on offer.
Fairlie Golf Club played host after their successful 2023 campaign at Ashburton Golf Club and the course was presented wonderfully for the event.
Ashburton took out the day with 228 Stableford points, totaling -12 par for the day for the team.
below. It’s also worth noting one of the upcoming juniors in the region Chrisjan Senekal shot 74 at just 13 years of age to bring in 40 stableford points and contribute hugely to the Ashburton team’s success.
The Captains Cup was taken out by Lynn Small (Ashburton) with 36 points, whilst the Presidents Cup was taken out by Pat Collins (Timaru) also with 36 points.
