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Chieftain’s Chip Clinches “Jock’s Pot”
Mackie Quaich decided by playoff
Story and Photography by Fay Glasgow
In a thrilling finish to the day’s activities, there was a tie for best score between Paul Curran, the 2007/2008 cheiftain and the HKGA’s Iain Valentine. With the same winning score of 35 points, and still tied after countback, the two were sent out to the first hole to settle the matter in sudden death. After both missed the green off the tee, Paul played a magnificent chip to within inches of the hole, which Iain gracefully conceded. Three “firsts” ensued: first play-off in Jock’s Pot history, first place to Paul Curran and first time the Chieftain of the society has won the event.
Victor's spoils: Curran, the champ, with Mackie, the founder Founding Father
F
riday 23 May saw the third annual “Mackie Quaich Golf Match” take place at a surprisingly sunny Shek O Country Club. Following some dreadful downpours in the preceding few days, the sixteen players competing for the silverware on offer were delighted to see clear blue skies as they had lunch before the start of the individual Stableford event. Organized by the Hong Kong St Andrew’s Society, and informally known as the “Jock’s Pot” tournament, the event is named after former Society Chieftain and Hong Kong golf legend Jock Mackie (who also kindly donated the ubiquitous silver drinking cup presented to the winner). Intended to encourage the game in the territory, the competition for the “Pot” itself is open only to members of the Society, although non-members are warmly welcomed to join in the day’s play and the post-game festivities. 46
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This year’s competition was graced by the presence of Mr Mackie himself. Admitting to being over twenty-one, Jock is probably the best-known name in the sports business in Hong Kong. After starting off at Jardine Matheson, Jock became CEO of Hutcheson International and A.S. Watson Ltd. He founded PARKnSHOP and changed the face of Hong Kong retail forever when expanding the drugstore arm into Watson’s Chemists. Focusing on his ever present interest in sport, Jock acquired Robertson, Wilson & Co before founding Sportsline Limited and JDM Associates. In Hong Kong and Asia, these companies represented brands such as Titleist, Nike, FootJoy, Wilson, Dunlop, Head, Hogan, Slazenger, and many others. Undoubtedly one of the finest players in the history of Hong Kong golf, Jock is a past president of the HKGA and remains the only Hong Kong player to have played in the Open Championship (Muirfield 1959). “Jock’s Pot” is an annual event held in May at Shek O Country Club. Those interested in participating should contact the St Andrew’s Society at admin@ standrewshk.org
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Bay Island Beauty One of the most prestigious properties on Queensland’s tranquil Macleay Island, this gorgeous home is perfect for golfers and investors alike.
“P
arador” is the name has been voted among Queensland’s best. of this single-storey Per fec t either for retirement or ranch-style home but investment, the house itself, which occupies it might just as well a total plot of 1600 square metres, is a be Paradise—at least thoroughly modern affair. Completed in for golfers or indeed 2006, “Parador,” which was constructed anyone looking to live in a relaxed and by a master builder, features a high peaceful environment. quality finish and mod cons throughout. Situated on Macleay Island, just a fifteen Broadband internet access and telephone minute water taxi ride from Brisbane’s lines are available in all four ensuite thriving Redland Bay district (and within bedrooms, while a fully-fitted kitchen will easy reach of dozens of the Gold Coast’s satisfy the demands of the culinary inclined. magnificent courses), this four bedroom The veranda, which runs the full width of house doesn’t just border the island’s the house, is a wonderful spot to relax and picturesque nine hole Bay Island Golf Club; watch the sunset. A large family room, it affords tremendous views of the course’s living room, garage and car/boat port signature green as well. complete the features of this truly unique Not that golf is the only game on the property. island. The whole region is famed for its pristine beaches and crystal clear water. Not surprisingly, Sale + Owner Contact Information sailing, windsurfing A$495,000 (approximately HK$3.7 million*) and scuba diving are House comes partially furnished all popular pursuits, while those of a Tel: +852-2364 9168/9193 5099; Fax: 2330 4428 more leisurely nature Email: waterline@btconnect.com can take advantage of the Macleay Island NOTE: *market rates correct at time of press Bowls Club, which WWW.HKGA.COM
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