Golfer Pacific NZ – August 2024

pgueorgieff@yahoo.co.nz

Lies, damned lies and statistics

By Paul Gueorgieff Editor, Golfer Pacific NZ

Irecently declared myself a putting expert. It came after I decided to one day compile putting statistics of my group of four. I had hoped the statistics would confirm my suspicion that most people leave their putts short in fear of hitting the ball too far past the hole.

After a few holes I changed the rules in the way the statistics would be compiled. I was only counting first putts but subsequently realised a long putt that finished either three feet short or three feet long didn’t matter.

The important factor for a long putt was at least the player had got the ball within three feet of the hole and therefore almost certainly (for good putters like myself, I must stress) getting the second putt. Three feet short or three feet long didn’t matter for a long putt.

So now I had decided first putts of a long putt finishing within three feet would not be counted in whether they finished short or long.

But then I thought what about medium-sized putts. If a medium-sized putt fin-

ished three feet short or three feet long, should I record that?

Then I thought what is a medium-sized putt? Is that 20 feet, 25 feet or 30 feet?

Let’s say it is 25 feet. Does that mean a putt of 24 feet and six inches is not a medium-sized putt?

Then I thought what is a short putt?  Is it six feet?

And if so does that mean a putt of six feet and six inches is a medium-sized putt?

My heading was spinning with what-ifs and after eight holes I gave up compiling my statistics. Trying to compile putting statistics was far from an exact science. It reminded me of the famous saying lies, damned lies and statistics.

Also measuring putts by distances does not necessarily determine difficulty. For example a straight uphill four-foot putt is much easier than a four-foot sidehill putt with plenty of break.

Obviously, we all want to avoid three-putts. I am reminded when watching golf on television that sometimes a caption will appear on the screen to say that a player’s just recorded

three-putt in the third or fourth round is their first for the tournament. When I see that I often think to myself that’s one of the reasons the player is the leader or amongst the leaders.

Let’s get back to my putting survey. After I gave up compiling the numbers I thought what am I trying to prove.

I concluded that I still do believe most golfers, especially amateurs, leave many of their first putts short.

Then I thought why. One of my playing partners came up with answer.

That was because most of us are aiming for the ball to reach the hole when we should instead be aiming to have the ball have the speed of finishing one foot past the hole.

It’s the old adage that 100 percent of putts that finish short never go in. But if a putt has the speed of getting one foot past the hole, there is a good chance it will go in.

So that’s my putting tip from this new putting expert. Think of hitting the ball at a speed that, if it misses the hole, it will finish one foot past. Please place my putting coaching fee of $100 in my TAB account.

The Open was Xander Schauffele’s second major win for the year

By Paul Gueorgieff Editor Golfer Pacific NZ

Before this year Xander Schauffele was described by many as the best current golfer not to have won a major championship.

Now he is the winner of two majors.

The first of the major wins came in the $US18.5 million PGA Championship at Valhalla in Kentucky in May when he beat Bryson DeChambeau by one shot.

Two months later the 30-year-old Californian racked up his second win in a major with a brilliant six under par final round in the $US17 million The Open Championship at Royal Troon in Scotland. He won by two shots from Justin Rose and Billy Horschel.

Schauffele admitted that winning in Kentucky provided him with confidence.

“I think winning the first one (major) helped me a lot today on the back nine,’’ Schauffele said at his press conference afterwards.

“I had some feeling of calmness come through. It was very helpful on what has been one of the hardest back nines I’ve ever played in a tournament.

“I mean, it’s a dream come true to win two majors in one year. It took me forever just to win one, and to have two now is something else.”

Schauffele rated his bogey-free final round at the best of his career.

“At the very tip top. Best round I’ve played,’’ he said.

Schauffele finished 15th in the Scottish Open the week before and he had no doubt it acted as good pipe-opener to different weather conditions and links golf.

“I think it’s essential. Just the time zone itself is a big thing to overcome,’’ he said.

“Then when you move along to the fescue and the deep bunkers and the finer sand, and then you talk about the wind, and then the greens being slow-

er, literally everything is completely different than what we do over in the (United) States.

“If you can just give yourself an extra week to try and acclimatise, I think it’s a no-brainer.”

Schauffele said The Open win was the proudest moment of his golfing career.

“It’s an honour. I’ve always dreamt of doing it. That walk up 18 truly is the coolest with the yellow leaderboards and the fans and the standing ovation. It really is one of the coolest feelings I’ve ever had in my life. I got chills walking down and quickly had to zap myself back into focus because the tournament wasn’t over yet.”

Making the win even greater was that many of his family members were on hand which was not the case in Kentucky.

“My wife’s here, both my parents, my brother and my uncle … tonight will be awesome.”

Schauffele won the 2022 Scottish

Open and that also provided him with confidence to perform in completely different weather and course conditions to which Americans are used to,

“Yeah, it’s a completely different -- like we just talked about, it’s a completely different style of golf. It makes you play shots and have different ball positions.

“There’s so much risk/reward when the wind’s blowing 20 miles an hour and it starts raining. There’s so many different variables that come into play. It truly is an honour to win this.

“To me it’s big. To me winning the Scottish Open was big because it meant my game could travel. So to double that up and win a major in Scotland is even cooler.”

Schauffele is known to keep his calm and is an advocate of the saying that the most important shot in golf is the next one.

“I think a long time ago I just kept tracking my rounds where I got angry, like truly deep down angry, and my

mistakes started compounding.

“I get angry, but to me it’s all about the next shot. I know it’s cliche and people try to talk about it, but you really can make yourself happy if you try to hit a good shot as your next one versus just snowballing the wrong way.

“Easier said than done, of course, but I’ve never broken a club, but I’ve gotten pretty pissed off on property. You can probably ask (caddie) Austin — he’s like an elephant (for memory). He keeps track of all these things in his mind.”

Schauffele said keeping mistakes to a minimum was probably the key to his win.

“I felt like I limited the mistakes pretty well. There was one really -- lucky to only have one really hard round in sort of the wind and rain, and I managed that day better than I ever thought I could, to be honest.

“I felt like I just controlled a lot of what I was trying to do, and the moments where I was losing control, I sort of -- if I hit it offline and into the fescue, I wasn’t too worried about it because it’s links golf. It’s how you play golf out here. As long as you avoid those coffin bunkers, you can move that ball forward and get yourself back in the hole.

“I think the style of golf maybe helped me mentally play this week. The style of golf you can play out here, you don’t have to be perfect or hit the prettiest drives or anything. As long as you’re moving the ball forward and dodging bunkers and keeping holes in front of you and making sure your chips are into the wind, all the stuff that us pros talk about, it’s easy to talk about, it’s harder to actually do when you’re out there.

“I think Austin and I did a pretty good job of plotting around this difficult property.”

Footnote: Schauffele’s first name is Alexander. His full name is Alexander Victor Schauffele.

Xander Schauffele kisses the Claret Jug trophy after winning The Open Championship at Royal Troon in Scotland. Photo credit: Luke Walker (R&A via Getty Images).

Kiwis impress at The Open

By Neville Idour

It was a very special Open championship for New Zealanders with four players in the field.

Two made the cut and two didn’t but in retrospect all four did themselves proud. Best finish came from Daniel Hillier at 19th. Ryan Fox finished 25th. Kazuma Kobori missed the cut by one shot. Michael Hendry missed the cut by four shots.

For 44-year-old Hendry he was just pleased to be there for the 152nd Open.

“It feels a bit surreal to be honest, just being here. It feels like I have won the lottery,” Hendry said.

A year ago he was lying in a hospital bed, typing out a withdrawal letter to the R & A ahead of the 151st Open at Royal Liverpool.

However receiving a medical exemption and welcome correspondence from the R & A for Royal Troon: “If you are healthy enough was a huge motivator for me. I think it had a huge impact on my recovery.”

As to the golf the first round was a grind for Hendry after being four over par after five holes. However he settled nicely after that with just a bogey on 14 and birdies on seven and the par five 16th to sit on plus three and a 74.

He birdied the first hole on the second day and after four holes was plus two and looking likely to make the cut. Unfortunately it all fell apart and 10 dropped shots from the fifth to the

12th ruined any chance of weekend play. Remarkably Hendry showed his mettle finishing with excellent birdies on the 16th again and the 18th to finish with 78 and plus 10.

For the 22-year-old Kobori it was a classic case of so near yet so far. For 31 holes his composure and consistency couldn’t be faulted. Just two over par after a solid first round 73 with two birdies and four bogeys, he was well placed.

Two birdies and a bogey on the front nine of the second round had him just one over par and looking odds-on to make the cut. A bogey on 10 didn’t look fatal as he was still only two over after 13 holes. It was heartbreaking the next four holes with three bogeys and a round shattering triple bogey on the difficult 459 metre par four 15th. A fine birdie on 18 left him with 76 on plus seven and one shot from weekend play.

Kobori, who missed the cut in his first major, the PGA Championship in the United States, said after his first round at Royal Troon: “It was a different story at the PGA. It feels like the work I’ve put in between then and now has paid dividends which is quite rewarding. I learned a lot from the PGA Championship seeing how good the best players in the world actually are.”

Not quite enough this time but still an encouraging result for the future.

Fox, expected to be our best hope and actually favoured by some pundits to be a top 10 or even higher contender, saved his best for last. His first

round 73 was consistent with just two bogeys but strangely no birdies.

After 10 holes in round two and two birdies he was strongly placed at even par. However he was undone at the tough and long 11th, the par four Railway. A triple bogey then a bogey on 18 left him inside the cut on four over par after another 73. Unfortunately the difficult conditions on Saturday got the better of his game. Three bogeys and a double bogey with no birdies put paid to any chance of a top 10 finish. His 76 had him on nine over par.

Fox excelled in the final round with one of the day’s better rounds of 67. Three successive birdies on three, four and five, a bogey on the par five sixth and birdies on eight and nine had him nudging the top 20. A bogey and a birdie on the final nine saw him finish a creditable tie for 25th and prizemoney of $US124,617.

Reflecting on the Open Fox said: “Another major season done for the year and pretty proud to make all four cuts again this year. The Open is such an amazing event and Troon was some test of golf. Didn’t quite fire on all cylinders for the week but it was great to come home strong on Sunday and sneak into the top 25. Looking forward to a week off now before heading to Paris (for the Olympics).”

Hillier didn’t have the best opening round. In fact many a player may have felt beaten after his first 12 holes which produced two bogeys including the Railway 11th and two punishing triple bogeys

to leave him eight over par and needing close to a miracle to make the cut. The miracle began with three birdies in the final six holes, a remarkable recovery.

A double bogey to start the second round was another setback but he settled into a consistent groove bouncing back with a birdie on two then a run of nine pars before a bogey on 12 had him on the cutline.

As he had done in the first round he got the finish he needed with a superb eagle three on the par five 16th to complete an excellent par 71.

A very consistent third round with four birdies and a bogey for a 68 saw him climb the leaderboard in the difficult conditions. In the final round he birdied the difficult Postage Stamp par three to move inside the top 20. However once again the Railway was a hiccup bogey after the bogey on 10. A solid par finish saw him finish with a 72 and a tie for 19th. He won $US176,367 for his efforts. Hillier was pleased with his effort as well he might be.

“The Open was such an epic experience,’’ Hillier said.

“Lots of grinding all week, but stoked to come out with my first top 20 in a major after being outside the cutline with three holes to play on Friday. Can’t wait for the next opportunity.”

So another major season is done and dusted. We can now look forward to 2025 and hopefully more involvement of our leading Kiwis.

THE OPEN LEADERBOARD AND PRIZE MONEY

Musings from The Open

By Neville Idour

Hendry’s poignant thoughts

Leading into The Open, Michael Hendry expressed some poignant thoughts after his harrowing journey back to golf. He offered: “I find golf more enjoyable now. Maybe I took the game a bit too seriously before (his battle with cancer).

He was relaxed during The Open with a different perspective on golf and life.

“I made the decision when I was sick that if my life was going to be shortened I was going to go out on my terms. Live as I want to live every day and enjoy it as much as possible. These things will happen to a lot of people.

“Just don’t give up, especially with great friends and family around you. So if you find yourself in strife either with physical or mental health, just keep going because the next day can be better.”

Monty riles Woods and opens debate

Before The Open at Royal Troon had kicked off former world number two Colin Montgomerie got under Tiger Woods skin with some pointed thoughts about him. It certainly fuelled the debate about the value of allowing past champions to retain a spot in the field ad infinitum until aged 60, when they can no longer realistically compete.

Montgomerie suggested Woods “didn’t seem to enjoy a single shot at the US Open last month. What the hell is he doing? He is coming to Troon and he won’t enjoy it there either. There is a time for all sportsmen to say goodbye and I’d have thought we were past there. It’s very difficult to tell Tiger it’s time to go. Obviously he thinks he can still win. We are more realistic.”

Woods responded as expected.

“As a past champion I’m exempt until I’m 60. Colin’s not a past champion so he’s not exempt and doesn’t get to make that decision. I do. I’ll play as long as I feel I can still win the event.’’

Maybe he should have waited till after The Open before responding. Maybe Monty should not have spoken but it is hard to deny his point was spot on. It is a no brainer that only one player

older than 45 has ever won The Open and that was in 1867 when Old Tom Morris won when 46 years old. Perhaps age 50 is a more realistic age for automatic exemptions for past winners.

Ratings drop again — lowest since 2015

Viewing figures for the final round were the lowest since 2015 and four percent down on last year even with Justin Rose in the mix.

Perhaps having DeChambeau, McIlroy, Aberg and Hovland missing the cut removed a lot of interest. This completes a mixed bag for the 2024 majors.

The Masters saw a 20 percent drop on 2023 for Scottie Scheffler’s win.

The PGA Championship saw a 10 percent increase for the final round and Xander Schauffele’s first major win.

The US Open enjoyed an 11-year NBC record thanks to  DeChambeau and Rory McIlroy. The ‘fifth’ major, The Players, also saw a drop despite the grandstand finish including Scheffler and Schauffele.

Harrington says PGA Tour misses LIV players

Padraig Harrington can always be relied upon to speak his mind with considered opinion which is usually hard to disagree with.

He said the PGA Tour had lost some of its “biggest brands” and characters to LIV Golf and many of them have been missed. He told Golf Monthly magazine before The Open that a lot of players who left were “big characters” with distinct brands which the PGA Tour needed.

“I think we miss some of the LIV players. Some were established before they went. Some didn’t get enough time before they went. Are their games better or the same? A lot of those guys were big characters in the game.”

Harrington pointed to Patrick Reed, a controversial player as someone who is missed by the PGA Tour.

“I played with Reed at the PGA and I think him going to LIV made us realise how much we miss him. A lot of people would say who cares, but when he’s not there you miss him. I talked to him about it and he loved the fact he is that Marmite character — people either

love or hate him.

“However, love or hate them, they add to the excitement at the majors and I am always interested to see how they are playing. I think the LIV players are getting a better handle on their schedule and playing a few more events in Europe and Asia which has led to better performances at majors.”

Harrington welcomes the rivalry between the PGA Tour and LIV.

“Brooks (Koepka), Bryson and co are turning up playing for their tour which we used to do in Europe. When we won away from home it was a win for our tour and we came home to congratulations all round.”

Charlie Woods misses out at US Junior Amateur

Tiger Woods was on hand to watch his son Charlie miss the cut at the US Junior Amateur by a country mile. He shot a 12 over par 82 first round followed by a 10 over 80 to shoot 22 over par. The 15-year-old, who earned his spot in the 264 player field in June, finished near the bottom of the field. The top 64 players advanced to match play.

Players bemoan brutal

Saturday

Many of the players found the conditions on the Saturday at The Open brutal to say the least. Shane Lowry said: “Yeah. Playing a par three hitting drivers is not much crack. Driver into 15, 16 playing ridiculously long. Driver into 17, then on 18 wondering if you can actually reach the fairway 230 yards away after only carrying 220 yards on 17. It wasn’t much fun.”

Matthew Jordan said: “Three wood into 17 which I knew wouldn’t get there. I can’t hit driver on a par three.”  Xander Schaufelle on 17 said: “It felt windy with the rain. I smoked a three wood and it went 218 yards leaving me five paces short. That was pretty humbling.”

Jon Rahm said: “I didn’t know it was going to turn as difficult, from what I saw in the app. Man, did it turn quickly.”

Scottie Scheffler offered: “It’s up there. Overall the back nine was probably the hardest nine holes I’ve played to this point. Probably don’t hit a three

wood on a par three very often or driver and three wood well on a par 4 and don’t get there in two either.”

Justin Rose said: “That was super tough. I practised with the southerly wind in mind but I did not expect that.”

Oh the pain — Tiger Woods

On the Sunday five days before The Open, Tiger Woods was hitting the ball so well and almost sank his tee shot on the Postage Stamp hole, prompting one of his security team to gush about how well he was playing. Alas he picked the wrong Sunday to strike top form.

Thursday. His first tee shot hits the fairway. Looking good. No. Seventy eight shots later he signs for a 79. Second time round the crowds are there. Why? To encourage, rubberneck, satisfy morbid curiosity. Who knows?

All to no avail as he signs for a 77 and a total of 156, ahead of just five players. Three birdies, 14 bogeys or worse. 93rd in strokes gained off the tee, 149th in approach to the green, 156th (last) in putting and 154th in total strokes gained.

He remains without a top 20 in a marquee event since Augusta in 2019. He said: “It wasn’t very good. I was hoping to find it somehow, just never did. Consequently my scores were pretty high.”  Remember before the event he said he felt he could win. Sometimes it is better to let the club and ball do the talking first to spare any embarrassment. Oh the pain.

Darren Clarke knows when to go

Jovial Irishman Darren Clarke, a past Open champion, knows when to call his automatic exemption quits. He told the Belfast Telegraph newspaper that next year’s Open Championship at Royal Portrush may be his last. He made the cut at Royal Troon finishing 75th.

“Yes, I made the cut and if I make the cut at Portrush it will be great. But I’ve got my name on the Jug and on the senior jug. I was a young kid once so I would feel bad taking the spot away from a young kid who may fulfil his dream of playing the Open.”  Well said.

Ben Campbell snatches Morocco win in International Series

Ben Campbell was three shots behind the leader with two holes to play in one of the International Series’ tournaments on the Asian Tour.

The leader was the American John Caitlin who was chasing his third win of the season and had been the leader after each of the first three rounds of the $US2 million event held in Morocco in northern Africa.

Campbell, a former Wairarapa golfer now based in Queenstown, was paired with Caitlin in the final round and started the day one shot behind.

But it looked like second would be his lot as he slipped to three behind until he holed a 35-foot putt for eagle on the 17th hole.

That brought him back to one behind Caitlin and on the last hole both players had putts of about 10 feet for birdie. Campbell holed his and Caitlin missed to make for a

playoff to determine the winner.

The pair went back to 18th hole and Campbell holed a 20-footer to snatch victory.

“That was a great finish,” Campbell said afterwards.

“You know I didn’t have my best out there today and I just kept saying to Mike (his caddie), I’ve just got to find something and just stay patient.

“I went flag hunting on 16 and leaked it right, and hit a great bunker shot there. I said to Mike, if I can find eagle-birdie, you never know. So I did that, and then to hole a putt like that in the play-off, it’s always good.”

The win was Campbell’s second on the Asian Tour, having won the Hong Kong Open, another event on The International Series’ calendar, at the end of last year after a similarly last-gasp finish when he nailed a 15-foot birdie to win

by one.

The latest win was another reward for a player dogged by injury through his career.

“I just think it’s been a tough run, and I didn’t give up then and I’m not going to give up now. I just kept saying to Mike just don’t give up out here. I’ve got to find something in my swing. I was feeling great on the range and lost it, sort of, on the course. But, I just said to him and kept saying to myself, don’t give up.”

The Morocco win was worth $US360,000 which is about $NZ585,000. Campbell had rounds of 68, 70, 68 and 71 for 15 under par.

Catlin had one hand on the trophy with three to go and was a safe bet to claim the seventh Asian Tour title of his career and second wire-to-wire win of the season.

He surprisingly bogeyed his first two holes, but bounced back to lead by one at the turn before a birdie on 15 left him with that three-stoke cushion. But two closing pars were not good enough to hold off the

charging Campbell.

Said Catlin: “I mean, you have to tip the cap. I mean the guy goes two, four, four to finish. I mean, he probably made 130 feet of putts to win on the last three holes. All you can do is shake his hand and say well done. I mean, it is what it is.

“I played great. You know, I never, never gave in; I just kept battling. Kept chipping away. And you know that birdie on 15 gave me a decent little cushion there. I’m very pleased with the way that I played. There’s no doubt about it.”

Fellow New Zealander Kazuma Kobori finished 28th at four under par.

The Asian Tour takes a short break before heading to International Series England at Foxhills Club & Resort from August 8-11.

It will be the ninth event of the season on the Asian Tour and fourth leg of The International Series.

Former Wairarapa golfer Ben Campbell poses with the trophy after winning the International Series Morocco at the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam last month. Photo credit: Asian Tour.

A proud Ben Campbell with his trophy after winning the $US2 million International Series Morocco last month. Photo credit: Asian Tour.

Benn Ashford: NZ Open’s priceless golf tragic NEWS

By Neville Idour

London-born 45-year-old Benn Ashford is priceless because his role as volunteer manager at the New Zealand Open is a vital key to the event’s success.

He has been in that position since 2020 and has proved to be the perfect fit. He is a self confessed golf tragic as his life has evolved into a love for the game that began as a youngster.

“I watch a lot and play a lot. I’m a 14 handicapper,” Ashford said.

So when did it all begin?

“I first played pitch and putt stuff playing with my older brother. Then, when I was 13, I had a half set of clubs and joined a club as a junior.

“I always played different sports, but the thing about golf was you could play any time and didn’t have to rely on others as with team sports. I just loved the environment of golf and was a member at a few clubs over the years.

“I emigrated to New Zealand from London in 2014 and settled in Wanaka having previously worked in logistics and warehousing distribution.  I first volunteered

at the New Zealand Open in 2017 as a zone marshal. I was blown away by the tournament, the people I met and getting up close to the players --  literally everything.

“When I returned home I knew from that point that I wanted to work in the golf industry. As a golf tragic, looking back I am unsure why I had not tried to get into the industry sooner.

“From there I decided to set up my own company Front 9 Golf. The aim was to support golf related businesses in any areas that I could. At that point I owned an internet café in Wanaka, but the majority of my time was supporting small to medium sized local businesses.

“Contracts ranged from managing accounts to designing websites and lots in between. In truth, the golf business was really an extension of this and allowed me to build up contracts slowly, whilst still working on non-golf projects.”

The head marshal role was vacant for the 2018 New Zealand Open. Ashford was the obvious choice to look after all the on course marshals.

“I must have done something right in that first year which was a great experi-

ence seeing behind the scenes.”

Then in 2020, after Richard Hoskin had stepped down from the volunteer manager position, Ashford was only too happy to take over that role.

He said: “I must share my gratitude to Richard for all his support, calls, messages and generous time spent during the handover and the run into the event.

“The first year as volunteer manager was a real eye opener and I saw how volunteers are immersed in every facet of the tournament. The tournament cannot function without them.

“With around 500 volunteers each year they cover a wide range of roles, with some starting almost a week before the first tee shot. On top of that they embrace the experience and create such a great atmosphere for everyone involved in the tournament.

“The retention numbers for 2024 were incredible with 75 percent returning from 2023. They enjoy the experience and being involved in a truly global event. Their effort, time and personal expense committed to the tournament never ceases to amaze me -- and always with a smile.

“We have an amazing volunteer leadership team that works so hard, not just at the tournament, but also in the months leading up to it. Chrissy Rose (transport), Lynda Bixley (volunteer headquarters, Sarah Kennelly (scoring) and Kelly MacKenzie (marshalling) were a delight to work with.”

Bixley said: “I love working with Benn as he is very approachable and always happy. He always makes sure everyone is happy in their work.”

Tournament director Michael Glading said: “Benn is extremely talented and efficient.”

Ashford praises the volunteer sponsor SBS Bank for its invaluable support and involvement and encourages anyone thinking about volunteering to give it a go.

“Jump in, be a part of the team. It is an unforgettable experience that is great for everyone, not just people who love golf. With such a wide variety of roles we try to find the best match possible for a vol-

unteer, helped by their comments when they sign up.

“Every volunteer receives a tournament shirt, and depending on the number of days they volunteer, they receive vouchers for one or two rounds of golf at Millbrook Resort. They also receive lunch daily and an invite to the SBS Bank volunteer barbeque held on the eve of the tournament where they hear from the tournament directors and meet some of the tournament ambassadors.

“However the most talked about prize each year is that all volunteers go in the draw to win a place in the following year’s New Zealand Open pro-am field partnering one of the professionals.”

What else keeps Benn Ashford busy?

“Alongside the New Zealand Open contract I continue to work for various golf related business areas which include tournament management and inbound golf holidays amongst other things. In my Front 9 Golf business we try to be as flexible as possible to cater for those people or organisations we work with.

“The target for 2025 is 520 volunteers and currently we are already nudging 400.”

On that note we leave Benn to continue receiving the many volunteer registrations rolling in.

So if you are thinking about volunteering head to nzopen.com and check out the volunteer information and registration details.

With thanks to New Zealand Open marketing and media manager Mike Hadnett for his input.

Benn Ashford who is the volunteers’ manager for the New Zealand Open.

Benn Ashford (left) and New Zealand Open transport manager Chrissy Rose along with another volunteer.

Getting away from it all

By Peter Thornton

The game of golf has a unique ability to bring people together.

Almost 20 years ago, I worked for a great company called Sportsinc which produced the Phillip Leishman-hosted golf shows for Sky Sport and TV3. It was one of the most enjoyable roles of my career and over the years, I’ve stayed in touch with the lads.

On a fine and cool winter’s morning, it was a time for a long-awaited reunion.

The fourball consisted of Kelsen Butler, one of the best in the sports marketing industry, and two of our

old cameramen/producers in James (Jimmy) Dunlop and James Turnbull.

It was great to be back in their company.

The venue was the South Head Golf Club. It’s around an hour’s drive northwest of Auckland city. It’s a decent drive but it is worth every minute. The course is a great blend of quality and challenge and it’s the perfect place for the feeling of getting away from it all.

As we arrive at the course, the carpark is full on a Friday and the sun is shining over the course.

We chucked up the tee to see who would be playing with whom. It landed pointing towards Jimmy and Kels who would take on Turnbull and me.

The format is simple. We play matchplay in teams with the best ball winning the hole. The winners earn the right for a couple of rounds of beer and a toasted sandwich.

We are all enthusiastic amateurs and even though we haven’t hung out for a long time, the banter comes back straight away on the first tee.

Walking down the opening fairway, Kels is not short on anecdotes from his recent trip to The Masters in the United States, with the boys hanging off every word. Kels and his crew were following New Zealand No 1 Ryan Fox and to the envy of everyone, Kels was drawn from the media ballot to play at Augusta National.

A panoramic shot of the par four 13th at the South Head Golf Club in Helensville, north of Auckland. There are great views of the ocean on the back nine at South Head.

That is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and Kels delivered. He shot 97, with a couple of pars to remember at the iconic par three 12th and par five 15th.

Back here in Auckland, our own version of The Masters was in full swing. Kels and Jimmy get off to a flying start when they were three up after as many holes.

Kels makes a solid bogey on the opening hole before Jimmy is straight into his work on the par three second and makes an impressive par.

This hole is one of the best at South Head. A 183-metre par three from the white tees that, today, is playing straight into the teeth of the wind and is a good challenge. It has to be one of the best long par threes in the Auckland golf scene.

We get back into the game on the par three fourth hole. I hit a five iron to around 20 feet and make the downhill right-to-left putt for birdie to win our first hole of the day. As I am walking down the fifth fairway, I remember the advice we were offered ahead of the round.

“The course is most challenging over the first 11 holes that loop out and back to the clubhouse,” said Craig Mowat, the executive officer at South Head.

“Enjoy the struggle in the knowledge that the final seven holes will reward you with spectacular views and more opportunities to salvage a good score.”

Mowat recommends that first timers to South Head look at coming out midweek to enjoy more time on the course.

“The secret is out, and we can get busy on the weekends.  The layout and conditions of the course are exceptional. Combined with great value green fees to account for the travel, a day spent golfing at South Head is well worth the drive.”

Craig is right. At $30 on a weekday and $45 on the weekends, it is one of the best value clubs in the greater Auckland region. And it is a fantastic layout.

Playing here is walking in the footsteps of a legend. Tiger Woods, arguably the greatest to have ever played the game, has walked the fairways of this humble coun-

try course.

Back in 2006, Woods famously visited the club to caddy for Steve Williams on the day of Steve and Kirsty’s wedding. According to folklore, Woods spent most of his time on the bag, but he did pull out his three wood to drive the green on a couple of the par fours, just for fun.

That places South Head in an exclusive club in New Zealand, alongside the famed Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club north of Wellington, as the only two clubs Woods has played in this country. And the history of his visit here is displayed on the clubhouse walls.

Williams has been the club’s patron since 2008 and is proud to be affiliated with South Head.

And you can see why. It is a great course with a friendly staff and membership which makes playing here a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Much of the course has not been touched from the original design of the layout by Jack Eccles in 1969-1970.

The hardest hole of the course awaits at the par five eighth. A 443-metre hole from the white tees that often plays straight into the prevailing wind. The growing breeze is at our backs during our round, and I manage a solid par as we fight to stay in the match.

My playing partner, Turnbull, hasn’t played a lot in recent time, but he comes up with a couple of moments of magic. He makes putts for bogey on the ninth and 14th that would prove to be pivotal moments.

Kels and Jimmy are in the box seat on the picturesque par three 10th. They are one up and Kels flushes a four iron to 30 feet in one of his best shots of the day. I pull off a lucky chip which rolls through the rough to alongside the pin and we get another one back.

Jimmy has been a quiet performer all day but he comes into his own on the par four 11th. It’s a beautiful hole. Jimmy hits a seven iron to the elevated green and makes a good two putt for par.

As we walk past the clubhouse, there is everything to play for. Kels and Jimmy are one up and everyone has

had their moments of triumph and disaster.

I make par on No 12 and Jimmy responds with a par on the 13th. Heading down the 15th we are one down with four to play. I hit my tee shot in the trees on the left but come up with my best swing of the day. I put a seven iron in the middle of the green and make par to get back on level terms.

It’s all square on the par five 17th. It is a stunning hole that frames up beautifully from the elevated tee. At 376 metres, it is not a long par five and today it’s playing downwind. I hit driver, seven iron to the front of the green and make birdie to gain a one up advantage heading down the last.

By now, Turnbull and I are talking about what we’d like to have on our paid-for toasted sandwiches – ham, cheese and pineapple is in the offing – but it’s not over yet. On 18, I hit my ball into the hazard left, and Kels hits a stunning chip to around 15 feet to set up a chance to save the match.

His par putt is well struck. As it loses speed, it takes the lip of the hole and bounces out which is a huge moment. I manage to recover with my third and two putt to secure a one up win with the final putt of the contest. It could not have been closer.

It’s a huge relief to see the ball fall into the cup.  But to be honest, it was one of those days where it didn’t really matter who won or lost. It was just great to spend some time with these guys.

Over a perfect steak and cheese pie (they don’t do toasties here) and a pint of the local, Liberty Juice Bro Hazy Pale Ale, we reflect on the highs and lows of a memorable day out.

We make the vow that it won’t be so long between drinks next time, and line up the rematch.

There’s nothing quite like catching up with good mates throughout a round of golf. Today is another reminder that this game I love has forged friendships that will last a lifetime.

James Turnbull teeing off on the par four 13th at South Head. The old Sportsinc crew (from left to right) Peter Thornton, James Turnbull, James Dunlop and Kelsen Butler.

Kelsen Butler teeing off on the par four 14th at South Head Golf Club in Helensville, north of Auckland.

Te Marua: A hidden treasure in Wellington

By Neville Idour

Te Marua Golf Club, just north of Upper Hutt in Wellington, has to be a hidden treasure, but not for its 353 members who can enjoy it anytime. It has to rank high on the list of non marquee courses with a variety of terrain, parkland beauty and magnificent views.

The club boasts an interesting and, at times, fraught history.

In 1924 W E Gill and a group of golf enthusiasts set out an area of land on which to play golf. This was south of the clubhouse comprising most of the existing back nine. By 1931 nine holes were ready for play after most of the stones had been dug out and moved by horse drawn carriage and dumped on the Hutt River flat.

In 1931 a meeting agreed to form the Te Marua Golf Club as an incorporated society with 40 foundation members.

On July 15,1954, the land was purchased thus securing the nine-hole course. The layout continued to evolve over the years until the 1960s when it had gained the reputation for being the finest nine holes in the Wellington district.

In 1966 a further land purchase allowed the course to be extended to 18 holes. Architect commander John Harris, who designed Royal Canberra, was responsible for the design and he worked with the original character of the land to create a picturesque course where native birds flourish. He was a British course designer who later went into partnership with the legendary Peter Thomson and they designed Wairakei golf course in Taupo. In 1967 a clubhouse was built on the current site.

We jump to February 17, 2004, and annus horribilus (a year of extremely bad events) when all plans and visions went out the window. The course had survived three

floods in seven days but then a major land slip diverted the Hutt River across the second and seventh fairways making them totally unplayable. Annual subscriptions were due by the end of February. Some members left for other clubs while loyal ones stayed. Remarkably play continued on an 18-hole layout utilising two temporary fairways and greens for 22 months.

Numerous meetings between the club and the Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC) in February and March left the club in a precarious position not knowing whether the river would be redirected to its original bed or left on the course.

The club employed earthmovers Dixon and Dunlop to clear the landslip and redirect the river. Thankfully the work was completed by late March with finance from the club and the GRWC. In April a concerted effort was made to source funds from various

local organisations as well as club members who pitched in.

Rimutaka Tavern, Quinns Post Tavern and associated charitable trusts and the Upper Hutt Club came to the party.

So the work of building a substantial concrete block retaining wall and repairing the two fairways was completed in April, 2005, after further flooding in April, 2004, and then surviving a 4.6 metre flood on October 16.

The year of 2004 had been a very challenging year so it was a relief to get through 2005 and hold its annual tournament, the Te Marua Masters, in December.

So to the course. The course is built on gently undulating land adjacent to the Hutt River which is alongside eight of the holes. There is elevation on some holes which provides challenges and there are a few bunkers that have been added over the years to add to the skill required. However the course is considered

to have an average degree of difficulty. The course record of 63 was set during the 2023 Te Marua Masters on December 28, 2023, by Anthony Ilton-Maher.

From the white tees the course stretches 5570 metres. There are some truly memorable holes and none more so than the first, a par four at 378 metres from the white tee. It is called Waterloo for very good reason. All holes have appropriate names.

The first hole requires a carry of about 140 metres over the Hutt River to reach terra firma. As the stroke one hole it is a reality check starter. There would be few more demanding opening tee shots in New Zealand. The second, named Ambush, is a 137 metre par three, is stroke 15 and has a tree to avoid.

The occasional dogleg adds interest especially Nos 8, 14 and 16. We progress through some more intriguing names. Gap, Gibraltar, Donga, Ar-

Looking out from the clubhouse to the 18th green at Te Marua Golf Club, Upper Hutt, in Wellington.

Just one scene after the lower portion of the Te Marua Golf was hit with flooding when the neighbouring Hutt River burst its banks in 2004.

thurs Pass then Bend a dogleg right par five of 449 metres. The 15th Drop is a 125 metre par three to a green with native bush in evidence. The 18th, Totara, gives a pleasant 325 metre run home to complete a most enjoyable and peaceful round of golf. Various reviews give a true picture of the experience. “Challenging”, “fantastic views”, “friendly”, “great food”, “awe-

some club”, “very social’, “in great condition”, just to quote a few.

The clubhouse lounge is spacious and can comfortably cater for 120 people seated and still leave room for a dance floor.

Doors open out to a decked area and lovely views. So it is ideal for weddings and photos and other functions.

We spoke to the shop man-

ager Sonia Walsh who has been with the club since 2011. She talked about the membership saying: “We have 302 men, 33 women, six juniors, usually around 30 summer members 10 male life members and two women. We ran the 2024 New Zealand Maori Championships over six days in January. At the end of December each year we run our four-day Te Marua Mas-

ters tournament which attracts around 150 players.”

What about programmes to attract women such as ‘She Loves Golf’? “We gained a few members last time we ran it.”

Who keeps the course looking so good? “We have two full time greenkeepers and one part time.”

The club is very pro-active and in very good heart with its

excellent facilities, according to Walsh. An influx of close to 80 members in the last few months speaks volumes and the club is currently running a promotion. During August all green fee players can go in a draw to win a summer membership. So if the opportunity presents itself in Wellington, make Te Marua a definite. You won’t be disappointed.

Part of the spacious clubhouse of the Te Marua Golf Club.

Sonia Walsh in the golf shop at the Te Marua Golf Club.

Cape Kidnappers to host weekend with Tom Doak

Cape Kidnappers will host a special weekend event next year where the golf course’s American architect Tom Doak will lead interactive course tours, play, dine and generally hobnob alongside fellow design aficionados high above the sub-tropical waters of Hawke’s Bay.

Packages for this one-of-akind “Weekend with Tom” are now available. However, access to this “limited field event” will be granted on a first come first served basis, according to Ray Geffre, director of golf at Cape Kidnappers Golf Club. The weekend will be in October of 2025 and enquires can be made with the golf club or its website.

Set high atop the dramatic landforms and rugged cliffs of its eponymous peninsula, Doak’s 2004 design here — his first in New Zealand — was

recently ranked No 15 among all courses located outside the United States.

In a country that invented the luxury lodge experience, Cape Kidnappers created and continues to maintain this rarefied domestic standard, along with sister properties  at Kauri Cliffs in Northland and The Matakauri near Queenstown.

“It’s the nicest lodge in the country,” Doak has said of Cape Kidnappers. “Maybe on Earth.”

Developed by American financier Julian Robertson and still owned by the Robertson Family, this extraordinary property remains a massive, working cattle and sheep farm. It’s also home to Cape Sanctuary, the largest privately funded wildlife restoration project in New Zealand. Yet, according to Doak,

this peninsula is also home to “the project I most regret not having gotten the chance to design.”

“The very first time I went to Cape Kidnappers was the end of 2001, and I was late,” the architect recalls.

“They picked me up in a helicopter and landed me on the point down below. At that time, Julian wanted to build his lodge down there and, in my opinion — then and now — that would have been a superb place to build a golf course.

“It was flat enough, to go with plenty of acreage. From the moment the helicopter touched down, I was like, why wouldn’t we build it down here in this valley?

“It didn’t take long for Julian to make himself clear. The clifftops were his first choice and it’s hard to argue. His vision for

golf on those cliffs was inspired. It’s a setting like no other. But I thought then — and I still think — a very good golf course could have gone down there in the valley.”

Across this special weekend, Doak will lead course tours and discussion of the perennial world top 100 course he designed up above, at cliffside.

“There is nothing quite like it in golf; it just sits so high above the water,” Doak explains.

“This is a course fairly ranked among the top 50 in the world, but I’ve found people have difficulty classifying Cape Kidnappers in their own minds — because it’s so different and distinct from anything else.”

Guests in 2025 will also be treated to at least one intimate tour of The Farm, the 18 holes Doak routed next door, didn’t build, but has never forgotten.

“We would take picnic lunches down there when Cape Kidnappers Golf Club was being built,” he recalls.

“I think it was our second trip when we gave Julian and his wife Josie a tour of the place. We had spent a few days on site just sticking flags in the ground — to show what the golf course could be.

“I think I undersold it back then. Julian’s focus was always on building a top 100 golf course, whereas, at The Farm, Bruce [Hepner] and I were thinking more about a course with sheep and cows all over it. Which is what they use the land for now, of course. That’s what so many country courses do, all over New Zealand.

“I don’t honestly remember when Bruce and I went back and tried to actually route something down there,” Doak continues, referring to

his former associate.

“It may have been 2008. We had played around with maps from the start, but that was definitely our impetus — to get Julian more interested in a second course down below.”

The architect returned to New Zealand in 2013, to design and build Tara Iti Golf Club. This private, seaside club debuted in 2015, but its principals had also acquired an adjacent parcel that stretched some 10 kilometres down the beach, north of Auckland. The South Course at Te Arai Links opened for play there in late 2022. The Doak-designed North Course debuted a year later.

Early in the 21st century, Doak’s idea of building a second course at Cape Kidnappers proved a bit fanciful. Today, however, New Zealand is arguably the most desirable luxury golf destination on Earth — a reality he helped create. What’s more, pushing the limits of middle age, he is more focused on the dream projects that truly matter. To him.

“I’ve not discussed it with anyone there at Cape, not formally. But maybe the Robertsons would think differently about The Farm course today — because of what’s been happening up at Te Arai. I don’t lie awake at night thinking about it, but I can tell you we’d jump at the chance to design and build a course down there. I don’t know that there is the will to do it, today, but maybe what’s happening at Te Arai has upped the ante some.

“I’ve been spending so much time in New Zealand of late. It’s hard not to think about The Farm. One thing I want to do some day is go back and build it.”

The back nine at Cape Kidnappers. Photo credit: Nick Wall/AirSwing.

DeChambeau: Golf’s new Pied Piper

By Neville Idour

Bobby Jones, Arnold Palmer and Phil Mickelson all had their devoted Pied Piper like followings because of their connection with the fans.

But that is in the past. If ever men’s golf needed a shot in the arm after the events of the last two years it is now. Bryson DeChambeau, a polarising figure for some in his early years, has surely left that far behind

with his exciting golf, engagement with the fans and his popular YouTube following.

His major championship form this year was second only to Xander Schauffele, with a sixth at the Masters, a second in the PGA Championship and a win at the United States Open. The Open at Royal Troon was his only stumble, never finding his mojo and missing the cut. But through the two rounds he was still able to exude a positive and

engaging attitude and interaction with the fans..

His metamorphosis has been one of the joys of the game in 2024. His recognition of the former error of some of his ways has been accepted humbly and even better he has made changes in every case. Now some pundits say he is close to the most popular male professional.

This is hardly surprising giving his enthusiastic showman responses to the applauding fans. On the Sunday of the PGA Championship the fans were firmly with DeChambeau rather than Schaufele. Again at the US Open he enjoyed massive support — and why not. He is one of the few players who genuinely seems to care about the fans and their enjoyment.

Watching him toss balls to kids and then make sure no selfish adult runs off with them is heartwarming. Stopping for a wheelchair-bound adult at the US Open was just neat. Signing autographs during the final round — of a major, nonetheless. Fist pumps with fans at every opportunity. Then after the presentation taking the trophy to the fans so they could touch it. He signed autographs for ages then flew to New York the next morning to appear on talk shows.

Schauffele, obviously a nice guy, is viewed as somewhat faceless and reserved and offers little in entertainment like most of his peers. One had to feel for Rory McIlroy in the final round of the US Open being paired with his critic, the to put it kindly, the expressionless and agonisingly slow Patrick Cantlay.

DeChambeau realises there is much more to golf than playing well and collecting the money. He said: “It is funny but You Tube has helped me understand that a bit more.  When the moment comes , knowing what to do, what to say and how to act is really important. When I was younger I didn’t understand it. I would have great celebrations, but didn’t know what it meant and why I was doing it. Now I do it a lot more for the fans, trying to be a bit of an entertainer that plays good golf once in a while.”

He is the first top player to adopt YouTube in an influential way with a variety of video contributions. At last count he had 715,000 subscribers and growing. Plus more than 70 million video views.

He continued:  “I have worked very hard to help people understand who I am a little better. You Tube has been great for that. I love doing the Break 50 series. It’s a lot of fun. Being able to entertain the fans is very important.”

Unlike the PGA Tour, which forbids any filming inside the ropes, LIV Golf has allowed him to film challenge matches with other big names as well as film with huge You Tube channels such as Rick Shiels, Paige Spirinac and Grant Horvac.

It is easy to feel something watching him play. He credits LIV for allowing him more time and freedom.

“I have more time at home to work on my game with my team and strategise better. I give it my all at tournaments. A three-week stretch is draining, so having time to recover is super important. It has giv-

en me lots of time to reflect on what is most important outside of golf.”

LIV has certainly been the right fit for DeChambeau.

Pre-tournament he gave credit to Boo Weekly, a great ball striker. “Looking forward to a tough test. This is a ball striker’s paradise. He (Weekly) said the centre of the green never moves, so I will try to focus on that.”

He kept that mantra in mind for all four days.

Another factor in his play at the majors has been his unique clubs. His six degree loft Krank Formula Fire LD driver fired his 58 at LIV Greenbrier and has served him well. The addition of his 3D printed irons which he helped develop with Avoda Golf have been an eye opener. No wonder he has the nickname “the Scientist”. The good news for fans is he is aiming to have them available to all in the future.

As for the current schisms in the men’s game DeChambeau says reunification is the number one priority for fans and there are several ways for the governing bodies to solve the problems. At the post US Open press conference he said: “If I’m to be frank I hope this can bridge the gap between a divided game. All I want to do is entertain and do my best for the game of golf, execute and provide some awesome entertainment for the fans. From what I can tell, that’s what the fans want and they deserve that.”

And so say all of us. Yes Bryson DeChambeau has surely left behind the days when he had to endure chants of Brooksy.

Bryson DeChambeau with the trophy after winning the United States Open at Pinehurst No 2 in North Carolina. Photo credit: US Open.

News in brief

By Neville Idour

Richard Bland a late bloomer

Fifty one-year-old Englishman Richard Bland is something of a late bloomer extraordinaire.

He gained fame by winning his first and only DP World Tour event at the British Masters in May, 2021, in his 478th attempt. He made a move to LIV Golf a year later and hasn’t looked back, playing some of the best golf of his long career. He said the standard of the LIV Golf Tour has elevated his game to the next level.

His results have been consistently good with five top 10s and a further 10 top 20s with LIV. To top that off he now has two major titles to his name on the PGA Tour Champions this year, the PGA in May and the US Senior Open in June.

“I am more competitive playing on LIV than I would be on the DP World Tour. Which is not to bad-mouth the DP Tour. Just that the standard on LIV is a lot higher.”

He and Lee Westwood were banned from the recent Senior Open because of LIV which Bland feels was a DP World Tour decision not the Royal and Ancient. Neither have paid their fines.

Bland said: “I don’t want mine paid as I have no plan to go back to the DP World Tour so can’t see the point. It’s their loss and the fans.”

Neither will he join the PGA Tour Champions after being denied the customary playing rights reserved for winners of the Senior PGA Championship.

“Makes no difference as I don’t want to play full time in the USA. Even if possible LIV is now my priority. This is where I want to be. I don’t want to be anywhere else. Once I’m not wanted by LIV, that’s me off into the sunset a very happy man. I like the playing schedule I have. I’m very happy where I am.”

Webb Simpson named vice captain

Webb Simpson is the first 2025 Ryder Cup vice captain named by United States captain Keegan Bradley.

Simpson, 38, won the 2012 US Open, played in the Ryder Cup that year plus 2014 and 2018 and has seven wins on the PGA Tour. He also has three Presidents’ Cup appearances.

Bradley said he has a wealth of team experience, knows what it takes to win and will be a valuable member of the leadership team.

R&A boosted The Open purse

The 2024 Open prizemoney was boosted by $US500,000 to $US17 million.

That still left it the least of the four majors and just the 28th in size in all of men’s professional golf.

Retiring R&A chief executive Martin Slumbers is happy with that. He said: “The R&A had a responsibility to strike a balance between The Open’s position in world golf and the R&A needing money to develop and have oversight of world amateur golf except for the USA and Mexico. We are concerned about the perception of the sport and its long term financial stability.”

World handicapping system unfair to low handicappers?

A recent article says the system makes it impossible for scratch and low single figure handicappers to win handicap competitions. One United Kingdom club in Bristol has changed its policy for such events. The article claimed golf is the only sport that rewards mediocrity.

The Players Golf Club has introduced best gross prizes with the same value as for handicap winners. The low handicappers have already said they

would play more events as a result. This makes sense as the higher the handicaps the greater variance in results is possible. So to make it fair and an even playing field the gross prizes should equate to the stableford or nett prizes.

Bland: I did it for the money

Richard Bland is not ashamed to admit that money was the reason he moved to LIV Golf although he received no signing bonus whatever.  He had no doubt he made the right decision. In 2022 he won over $US3.5 million and in 2023 more than $US4.4 million. In 2024 he has picked up about $US2.5 million to date. Add to those numbers $US630,000 for his Senior PGA win and $US800,000 for his US Senior Open win. In 511 tournaments on the DP World Tour he won just under eight million euros (about $US8.6 million).

“I had the opportunity to make my life and my family’s and whatever we do a lot easier. So it was a no brainer.”  Regarding no joining fee for him he said the likes of DeChambeau, Koepka and Rahm all deserved their nine figure deals.

“I’ll play LIV for as long as I can and then that will be the end.”

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Groundbreaking agreement between PGA and Golf Genius

By Neville Idour

Amulti year groundbreaking agreement on June 6 was struck between Golf Genius, the leading provider of cloud hosted software solutions, and the PGA of New Zealand (PGANZ).

The agreement will provide PGANZ members with an elevated tournament experience and access to its digital coaching platform.

Craig Palmer, the Golf Genius NZ manager, completed the agreement with PGANZ chairman Phil Ellison and is

excited about the benefits that will result from this partnership.

Golf Genius has more than 10,000 subscribers worldwide and will deliver comprehensive tournament management and competition experiences across PGANZ’s full schedule of trainee tournaments, proam events, qualifying schools and scramble competitions from September. Charles Tour events will not be included.

PGANZ members will also have access to Golf Genius coaching solution division Coach Now which is currently

used by coaches, academies and national programmes in 100 sports across 140 countries. All PGA professionals will have free use of this programme.

Ellison said: “Following a thorough consultative process the PGANZ board of directors were impressed by the knowledge, experience and commitment demonstrated by Golf Genius to be able to support both PGANZ’s ambitions and those requested by our members.

“Our tournament management solution will enhance the PGANZ pro-am and tournament experience for professionals and amateurs alike with a range of in-app features, such as live mobile scoring. Free trial access to Coach Now will create opportunities for teaching professionals to assess the product and its ability to enhance the entire coaching experience.”

PGANZ will join a growing number of national PGA’s throughout the world that have chosen Golf Genius for their tournament management. These include the PGAs of America, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Holland, Japan, Portugal and Spain.

Mike Zisman, co-chief executive of Golf Genius, and Spencer Dennis, the founder of Coach Now, both expressed their commitment to provide the very best in technology and support across all areas of golf operations.

Said Dennis: “It is incredibly exciting. We can’t wait to get started.”

Of course on the club front Golf Genius is proving to be the perfect management solution for the more than 20 clubs that are now using the platform.

We spoke to Palmer about the progress being made and did he feel this was a groundbreaking agreement.

“I think it probably is because it is not just the tournament management software but the recent acquisition of Coach Now which is an unbelievable coaching platform, not just for golf but for about 100 different sports that are using it throughout the world.

“So as part of the agreement we have given all NZ PGA professionals a free six month trial of that software.

“It is exciting to think they will be using our software for all their pro-ams and trainee events. All events in New Zea-

land will be live scored so anyone in the country and around the world will be able to follow the events as they happen which is awesome.”

Charles Tour events will remain with Golf New Zealand’s Dot Golf system, which Palmer has no problem with. The way Golf Genius is registering all NZPGA members will make the process very simple, in terms of entering events and then live scoring.

Palmer added: “As we get more clubs on board we are not here to step on Dot Golf’s toes or cause any issues for them. There is absolutely no reason why Dot Golf and Golf Genius cannot happily co-exist in the same market because no club that adopts Golf Genius is dropping Dot Golf. They will continue to use them. It gives options depending on the tournament you are hosting.”

How is club uptake going?

“We are where we hoped to be at this point and we have recently come up with a new subscription option for clubs with smaller memberships who may be using a basic version of Dot Golf. They can use Golf Genius for a one off event as an option.”

Moore and Jeong shine at junior opens in Scotland

By Neville Idour

Outstanding junior golfers Cooper Moore (Clearwater, Christchurch) and Yoonae Jeong (Wakatipu Junior Golf Club, Queenstown) have made their mark at their respective Royal and Ancient Junior Opens in Scotland. Moore showed his talents in a world class boys’ field at Kilmarnoch Golf Club.

A first round 71 left Moore tied second after being three over par after just six holes. He settled nicely for four birdies after that. Again he struggled in the second round being three over par after seven holes. He had the worst of the conditions in the morning with strong winds and rain coming in sideways through to the 11th hole. From there two birdies and two bogeys for 76 left him in eighth place. The afternoon players had much better conditions.

He resolved not to force it in an effort to climb the leaderboard in the final round. He stuck to his game plan and

left his best for last with a flawless final round of  68 with four birdies. This put him in a tie for second with three other players, however with the best final round he finished second on a countback four shots behind winner Seonghyeong An (Korea).

Moore, who was over the moon after his effort and the bonus for his experience, said: “It is going to be great to enjoy watching the world’s best golfers do their thing at The Open at Royal Troon. It will be an eye opener for my future goals.”

Likewise for Yoonae Jeong it was a wonderful experience for her at the Royal and Ancient Junior Girls’ Open at Barassie in Scotland. This was her first time away overseas at a world class event. She played consistent golf except for two significant blemishes. A first round 76 had her 17th after round one. An 80 in round two was ruined with an extraordinary 11 on the par

4 sixth hole. Like Moore she had to weather the worst of the conditions in the morning. Another 80 in the third round included a spoiler 8 on the par four 13th hole.

Even with those two rogue holes it was commendable that she recovered to finish tied 23rd in the world class field.

New Zealand Professional Golfers’ Association chairman Phill Ellison (left) shakes hands with Golf Genius New Zealand manager Craig Palmer after announcing their agreement.

Keegan Bradley — a masterstroke or not?

By Neville Idour

The appointment of 38-year-old Keegan Bradley as the United States’ Ryder Cup captain came as something of a bombshell to most of the golf world — and why not?

Bradley was shattered to miss out on a captain’s pick last year from captain Zach Johnson who left himself open to accusations of a clique and bias.

Bradley was something of an outsider which likely cost him a place. After all, Johnson shared a house with Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas and Rickie Fowler at The Open last year just weeks before picking them, thus creating suspicion. Following Tiger Woods turning down the role Bradley has now gone from the outhouse to the penthouse.

On the surface it looks like a left field appointment. After all he will be 39 when the Ryder Cup begins, the youngest US captain since Arnold Palmer who was 34 when a playing captain.

Bradley would also like to be a player as well. He is world ranked 19th and US ranked 11th, so it is possible. Brad-

ley has played the Ryder Cup in the losing sides in 2012 and 2014, so has no overall winning experience. However he did enjoy personal success along with playing partner Phil Mickelson with four wins and a half.

While Mickelson said he was surprised at the pick he said: ”I think it is a great pick the more I think about it. I think he is incredible. I’m really happy for him, knowing how gut-wrenching it was to miss out last year.

“His passion for the Ryder Cup is greater than just about any player I have ever seen. I think he will lead with that kind of passion.”

Not surprisingly Bradley spoke highly of Mickelson at his introductory news conference but didn’t think Mickelson would be interested in being one of his vice captains.

“I still have a great relationship with Phil. He’s a captain some day. I have nothing but great things to say about Phil and what we did in the Ryder Cup.”

Of course the Ryder Cup always meant so much to Mickelson unlike some of the current lot.

The US players, certainly in recent times, have been accused of caring less about the Ryder Cup than Europe’s players which is hardly surprising. After all which group of players were moaning about not getting paid to play — or refused to wear caps in protest at not receiving a slice of the contest’s money chest.

Patrick Cantlay was morose about such things. Just recently Wyndham Clark said Olympic golf is “probably even bigger than the Ryder Cup.”

Oh really?  The attitude of US players is pathetic. They just don’t get it. But Bradley does and that may be the masterstroke along with his selection attitude.

Whereas Johnson was accused of favouritism it is most unlikely Bradley will fall into that trap.

Said Bradley: “I want the best 12 players on the team. I don’t care where they play. Our mission is to win the Ryder Cup. I’m not worried about the LIV stuff.”

It is clear bruised egos and friendships will not get in the way of reclaim-

ing the Ryder Cup. It will be fascinating to see how some of the PGA Tour players who want LIV players punished, like Scheffler, Cantlay and others cope with Bradley’s ethos.

Bryson DeChambeau had some telling words to say in support at the same news conference.

“I’m excited for him. I think it’s a great opportunity for him, especially as it related to younger players. Because of his age he’s going to see that younger threshold and relate to them much more.

“So he is seeing the younger generation game because he is out there playing and competing and being able to relate to them. As far as picking the best players, that’s the right approach and I couldn’t be more happy for him as captain.”

What a breath of fresh air.

If DeChambeau is anything to go by, the LIV contingent may well play a big part in any success the US team enjoys at Bethpage Black in New York in September of next year.

Mark Darbon appointed as new chief executive of The R&A

Mark Darbon has been appointed chief executive of world golf governing body The R&A and secretary of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in Scotland.

Darbon will in November succeed Martin Slumbers at The R&A which, apart from developing golf around the world, also runs The Open and Women’s Open tournaments.

Darbon will also become secretary of the 270 year-old The Royal and Ancient Golf Club which has a global membership of more than 2400.

A former senior member of the

team leading the London organising committee for the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in 2012, Darbon is leaving his role as chief executive of premiership rugby club Northampton Saints, to take up the St Andrews-based position.

Darbon, 45, led Northampton Saints in May to its first premiership title since 2014 and implemented a commercial strategy which enabled the rugby union club to bounce back from the pandemic to achieve record revenues in consecutive seasons.

He said: “I am thrilled and honoured to be taking up these positions with The R&A and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews and to be moving into golf, a sport I have always loved.

“The R&A is a globally renowned organisation and does so much to ensure that golf prospers from grass roots through to the professional game. I am looking forward to working with a hugely talented team of staff, the club membership and such an impressive array of partner organisations to achieve even more success in the years to come.”

Niall Farquharson, chairman of The R&A, said: “We were greatly impressed with Mark’s knowledge and experience of the global sport industry and his ability to develop successful teams and deliver fantastic events.

“We believe he will be an excellent leader for The R&A and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews and will play a key role in helping us to achieve our goal of ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for golf.”

Darbon started his career as a management consultant at Marakon Associates, before joining Diageo plc where he held a number of strategic and commercial roles, living and working in markets all over the world, including the United States, Russia, China and Australia.

Having transitioned into sport event organisation in 2009, Darbon held several senior roles with the London organising committee for the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games and was latterly head of Olympic Park operations, overseeing the Olympic Park which housed nine competition venues with 20,000 employees and welcomed 250,000 spectators a day throughout

the 2012 Games.

He went on to serve as an expert adviser to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) from 2013 to 2018.

Following London 2012, Darbon was senior vice president of Tough Mudder Inc in New York and was involved in planning, promoting and staging mass participation events in North America, Latin America, Europe and Australasia.

Before joining Northampton Saints as chief executive in 2017, Darbon served as chief executive of Madison Sports Group, a sports events and content company which created an award-winning international series of professional track cycling events and, in doing so, brought a series of new sponsorship arrangements and media rights deals to the sport.

As well as being a keen golfer, playing to a handicap index of 3.1 as a member of Northamptonshire County Golf Club and Saunton Golf Club, Darbon is a former under-21 England hockey international.

Darbon is married with two children and plans to move his family to St Andrews when he takes up his new role.

Mark Darbon who will succeed Martin Slumbers as chief executive of The R&A. Photo credit: The R&A.

Driving in Leon México

The Latin American Long Drive Championship was an amazing competition in Leon México. Owen Meeds from England was the Pro winner, Isaiah Joyner from USA second, Matt Stubbs from Australia third and Nick Hanna from New Zealand fourth.

Phillis Metti from New Zealand won the ladies’ champion and Maurice Allen from the USA won the Senior Championship Title.

In the Amateur division, Mexico dominated the grid in all divisions and the nation cup. All hitters enjoyed the hospitality of the Mexican people, visited the old city of Guanajuato, and enjoyed soccer and baseball professional games. Also, hitters were in different golf courses, giving to the young golfers the opportunity to see professional LD players and learn with them. It was a wonderful experience!

Incredible welcome and hospitality for all players

Founder and owner of Xtreme Drivers League, New Zealand Long Blacks and Aussie Long Ballers, Olna Ford

wishes to send a heartfelt thanks to the people of Leon for the warm hospitality. Thanks to the government of Leon and Guanajuato for the support and welcoming our players. Thanks to Gustavo Uriostegui for all the support and preparing everything in Leon (the welcome, transportation, hotel, city tours and games). Thanks to Luis kuronya for the organization of the Latin American championship, your support to myself, our players and the Long Drive community worldwide is greatly appreciated. To XDL players

Nick Hanna, New Zealand Long Black and our current National Champion, Steffan Scutti, Aussie Long Baller and the first and current Asian Long Drive Champion, thank you for travelling to represent our nations and teams, super proud of your commitment and awesome performances. To Phillis Meti, National NZ Women’s Champion, congratulations for taking the win, always proud of you.

Special thanks to Golfer Pacific Magazine for supporting the sport in Australia and New Zealand.

Owen Meeds from England, Phillis Meti from New Zealand, Maurice Allen from USA & Luis Kuronya - Organiser

Steffan Scutti, Aussie Long Baller, Asian Long Drive Champion & Nick Hanna New Zealand Long Black and National New Zealand Champion.

Onekakā Links Golf Club

AMAZING GOLFING EXPERIENCE AT ONEKAKĀ IN GOLDEN BAY

With stunning vistas and memorable golf and hospitality, it’s a day you won’t forget.

The Links Course is not long, but rarely conquered. It comprises one par 5, eight par 4 and nine par 3 holes, including two double greens and a triple green via major elevation changes, with ocean, ponds, cliffs, penal bunkering or roughs encircling the greens. The Mountain Course is a significantly more difficult challenge and not for the faint hearted. Visit www.onekakalinks.com for a course guide also incorporating drone footage of the course and testimonials of visiting players. We also have a Face-

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

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.”

- Kindest Regards, Bill Mackenzie (PGA Professional, St. Andrews East Golf Club, Canada)

“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

of the box thinking. You have three or four green-sites that would rival the very best in New Zealand. I will be sending more people your way for sure.

You really chose all the best green sites to maximize your property. Your green in the far coastal corner of the property does this so well. The triple green with the bunker and lower green level and water hazard. It is the interest you created that is so much fun. 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.

You and Richard Barham have done such an amazing job with your property - really impressive stuff. If you ever end up doing that new green we discussed

drop a me line and I may try to volunteer some shovel time for you if the timing works!

Thank you again and it was so kind of you to host me there. “

- CJ Kreuscher, Director of Agronomy for Te Arai Links and the original Superintendent of Tara iti, who recently played both courses.

“Great day out at the 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, Wanaka

Queenstown THE GOLF MECCA

GOLF COURSES IN QUEENSTOWN

Queenstown is home to some of the most spectacular golf courses in New Zealand.

Several golf courses, all within a 25 minute drive, appeal to every level of golfer –whether it's the lush immaculately groomed greens of a resort course or a simple fairway with rugged mountain peaks as a backdrop. The golf clubs and golf courses in Queenstown all offer spectacular scenery and varying par levels and difficulty. There is a course whether you are a serious golfer or just starting out.

BOOKING A GOLF HOLIDAY TO QUEENSTOWN?

We recommend: www.abovepargolf.com.au www.golfencounters.co.nz www.parnz.co.nz

CROMWELL GOLF CLUB

• Black 6462m

• Blue 6234m

• White 5844m

• Yellow 5204m

• Red 4468m

THE Cromwell Golf Course is a sand based, links style course located further from the sea than any other in New Zealand. Its fairways follow the natural lie of the land and features a sandy, wasteland feel, rough with patches of marram grass and large undulating greens.

The course has 5 tee locations ranging from beginner to championship providing a real challenge for all levels of golfer and was rated inside the top 30 NZ courses in NZ Golf Magazine’s 2019 rankings. The Cromwell course hosts the New Zealand Open final qualifying event annually. Course facilities include a full length driving range and large multi-tier putting and chipping green, on-site PGA Professional, fully stocked pro-shop along with electric cart, trundle, and club hire.

Situated on the 45th parallel, the inland location and surrounding mountains creates a microclimate nearing semi-arid. With less than 400mm (<15 inches) of evenly spread rain and 2200 hours of sunshine per year, golf can be played comfortably year-round with dry underfoot conditions. In winter a crisp white frost usually ensures a brilliantly sunny day in which to enjoy a round of golf on a course maintained to a consistently high standard. The golf course is in the centre of the town, which in turn is surrounded by vineyards and orchards. This is the centre of the world renown Central Otago Pinot Noir producing locations of Bannockburn, Bendigo and Lowburn so wine tasting opportunities are numerous. The town is also located adjacent to Lake Dunstan and the junction of the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers.

» www.cromwellgolf.co.nz

» Cromwell 9310, New Zealand

» Phone: 03 445 0165

QUEENSTOWN GOLF CLUB

(KELVIN HEIGHTS)

• Blue 6102m

• White 5839m

• Gold 5104m

• Red 4100m

EVER seen a post-card of Queenstown? If so then it has probably been taken from the top of Skyline Gondola and has the Queenstown Golf Club in it!

This picturesque golf club offers not only stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu but is an exciting and challenging golf experience. Located just 20 minutes from Queenstown, or 5 minutes by water taxi, this is one of New Zealand’s iconic golf clubs which is a ‘must play’ for all golfers visiting the region. The Course is surrounded by Lake Wakatipu and cradled by stunning mountain ranges so every tee and green has a view which makes it hard to keep your head down! Signature hole’s take on a whole new level at the Queenstown golf club especially the 4th, 5th, 9th, 10th, 14th and 17th which could be signature holes on any course.

With a proud and loyal membership, Queenstown golf club has a long history and welcomes visitors year-round. Equipped with 40 modern motorised carts, a PGA Professional, Pro shop, 7 day a week Café specialising in homemade faire and fully licenced Bar ensures all your golfing needs are met and exceeded.

The signature hole and probably one of the more scenic photographs on a New Zealand golf course would be the par 4 5th that curves left around the shoreline of Lake Wakatipu to an elevated green. Driving line is key as an over aggressive line combined with a miss-timed drive will see you ending up in the drink, however, the hole sets up for a right to left shaped drive which will carve yardage off your approach shot.

The facilities are excellent, carts and club hire available from the pro shop.

» www.queenstowngolf.co.nz

» Email: proshop@queenstowngolf.co.nz

» Phone: 03-442 9169

WANAKA GOLF CLUB

Blue 5770m

White 5484m

Yellow 5029m

A one hour scenic drive from Queenstown, the township of Wanaka is a stunning and tranquil holiday destination in the heart of the Queenstown Lakes region. Perched above the picturesque township is the lovely Wanaka golf club; the biggest club in the South Island with over 1300 members. Host to the NZ Mixed foursomes, the NZ Women’s and Men’s Seniors events. Wanaka Golf Club boasts a well maintained, charming and challenging layout, with magnificent views.

Measuring 5770m (blues) and 5484m (whites) the course isn’t long by modern standards, but careful course management and the ability to shape your shots is important if you want to score well. The small greens and natural contours of the land also present their own challenge, so playing safe to the middle of the greens is recommended. It’s also important to try and keep your eye on the ball, as the spectacular views across the town and lake to Mount Aspiring National Park are some of the best in New Zealand, and can certainly add an extra distraction to your game.

The two nines are very different. The front-nine, which was established in the 1930s, features an undulating layout with small greens nestled amongst the rolling terrain. The back nine, which was added across the road in 1967, is much longer and slightly flatter—but no less spectacular. The club continues to progress significantly with capital improvements and course upgrades, making it one of the most scenic and playable courses around. The club features all the usual facilities you’d expect from a quality golf club, including club and cart hire, fully-stocked pro shop, recently upgraded practice range facility and a café and bar.

Also view the new pitch ‘n putt 5 hole course, a new addition to Wanaka’s course offerings.

» www.wanakagolf.co.nz

» Email: pro@wanakagolf.co.nz

» Phone: +64 3 443 7888

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGIONS

BAY OF PLENTY

BOP GOLF HANDICAP PENNANTS AT MOUNT GC

The BOP Golf Handicap Pennants at Mount GC was played recently.

Great matches played in both the Laing Trophy and the Plate.

Laing Trophy Final Lakeview 5.5 Tauranga 2.5 Plate Final

Taupo 4 Mount 4 (Taupo won on 1st sudden death playoff hole).

THE 2024 TIEKE STROKEPLAY WINNERS

Female winner: Rebecca Blackwell-Chin, with a final round 65 (7-under) for a runaway nine shot win at 12-under overall

Male winner: Mitch Kale, chipping in for an eagle on the final hole to win by one shot at 8-under.

WELLINGTON

THE EAGLES PARAPARAUMU

BEACH GOLF CLUB JUNIOR OPEN

The Eagles Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club Junior Open with 90 players being challenged by the links, over 18 and 9 holes. Congratulations to Alec Prentice,

Kayla Van Der Ven and Elise Barber, low gross rounds and to all the winners.

Ned Butler, Hugo Sidford and Elise Barber were selected to the Wellington team to take part in the Eagles U17 Nationals later in the year.

CANTERBURY

ASHBY BERGH TROPHY AND MCGUIRE HENDON CUP

The annual Ashby Bergh Trophy and McGuire Hendon Cup matches were played recently at Burnham Golf Course in calm, sunny conditions and the course in great order.

The Ashby Bergh Trophy match was between Tai Tapu (Canterbury Central Patterson Cup Winner) and Kaiapoi Black (Canterbury North Templeton Cup Winner) with the Tai Tapu team of, from back left Jason Blair, Bevan Ryan, Were Tahurangi, front left James Ting, Ricky Hetherington and Neil Vickers defeating Kaiapoi Black’s Greg Stringer, Paul Hughes, Simon Hodge, Jamie Maat, Nathan Lynskey and Ken Harvey in a sudden-death play-off won by Jason Blair, after the teams were all locked up at the end of 18 holes.

The McGuire Hendon Cup match was between Greendale (Canterbury Central Patterson Cup Runner-up) and Kaiapoi White (Canterbury North Templeton Cup Runner-up) which was another match locked up at 3-3 after 18 holes, before Greendale’s team of, from left Jamie Camp, Chris Faithful, Simon Jeffs, Craig Whithead and Stephan Hance (Absent Raymond Willliams) defeated Kaiapoi White’s Greg Mills, Ky Dutton, James Maguire, Ryan Wood, Stuart Laurie and Geoff Harnett again in a sudden-death play-off with Simon Jeffs getting the Greendale side over-the-line.

CANTERBURY NORTH WOMEN’S INTERCLUB

The Final round of Canterbury North Women’s Interclub was played at Hanmer Springs yesterday in cool, overcast conditions and the course in great order. Going into the Final Round Scargill led the team standings by just 1 point from their nearest rival Hanmer Springs who had the bye and were unable to add to their total. With both Hawarden and Cheviot next on 12 games, Scargill only needed to win two games in their final match against Culverden to safely secure their second successive title.

They managed to do that comfortably winning 3.5-1.5 with Emma Macfarlane defeating Ju Lucas 5/4, Marianne McLean defeating Tammy Bunt 7/6 and Jo Butler defeating Eleanor Youngman 5/4, while Nic Fairbairn halved her match with Sue Satterthwaite at the top of the order.

The successful Scargill team of, from left Nic Fairbairn, Jan Moir, Caroline Murray, Janet Murray, Marianne McLean, Jo Butler and Emma Macfarlane are pictured above. The other Scargill players absent from todays match, but very much involved were Janet Murray, Jan Moir.

TOBY RICHARDS TROPHY & CRESSWELL CUP

The Cresswell Cup and Toby Richards Trophy were contested recently in bleak conditions at Templeton Golf Club.

Despite the poor conditions both matches were hotly contested and provided for some good entertainment on a very cold and wet Sunday.

The Kaiapoi Black team of, back row Greg Stringer, Simon Hodge, Paul Hughes, Wayne Robertson, Nathan Lynskey, Ken Harvey and front row Ash Cowlishaw, Jamie Maat and Ben Young are pictured above.

In the Cresswell Cup, Templeton Cup Champions Kaiapoi Black came out on top over Metro A Champions Avondale 5.5-2.5 in a match that went down to the last couple of holes.

The Toby Richards Trophy was claimed by Patterson Cup Champions Tai Tapu over gallant Metro B Champions Bottle Lake 5-3 in another close contest. It was the fourth consecutive victory for the Tai Tapu club in this event.

Tapu’s

and Jeff Cairns)

Tai

team of, from left Frank Tabley, Scott Ward, Jason Blair, Ricky Hetherington and James Ting are pictured left. (Absent, Were Tahurangi, Neil Vickers

THE AORANGI LADIES WEEKEND PENNANT FINAL

The Aorangi Ladies Weekend Pennant Final was held on Sunday 7th July at the Ashburton Golf Club.

The final was between Tinwald 2 and Methven. Methven were convincing winners in the north zone play and Tinwald 2 were joint winners with Gleniti in the South zone. Tinwald 2 earned their place in the final through count back. 10 Teams, comprised of 4 ladies each competed in this competition.

All games were tight until the last few

holes and Tinwald 2 held on for a 8/4 win over Methven.

Results

Bronwyn Flannery won 2/1 v Gayle

O’Duffy

Jenny Harrex lost to Ellen Kemp 3/2

Dinelle King lost to Bev Ishenwood 3/1

Maxine Whiting won 3/1 v Ann Marie

Middleton

Tinwald won both 4BBB 1up in both matches

Conratulations to Tinwald 2 on their hard earned victory adn well done on becoming the Aoranig Weekend Pennant champions for 2024!

left to right: Jenny Harrex, Di-

Photo

nelle King, Maxine Whiting and Bronwyn Flannery. Others who played in prelimi-

nary rounds were Kellie Kenton and Linda McClea.