The Fairway Renovation programme was successfully implemented during the first weeks of November and the Club owes a huge debt of gratitude to a number of members who gave freely of their time to assist in the project; their efforts have been greatly appreciated not only by Mark Lawson and his team but also by the Board as this is a real cost saving. Thank you one and all!!!
The course has now been playing the nine hole layout for nearly six weeks and the format seems to have bedded in without too much difficulty but any feedback would be appreciated. I must say it is pleasant to be able to play nine holes without interrupting or disturbing anyone and end up back at the Club House!! A pre-cursor to the alternate course perchance??
At this stage it is anticipated that we will return to the full course in time for Men's Opening Day on Saturday 30 January. At this stage it is not clear if we will be required to play off tees - more information will follow in the fullness of time i.e. when someone tells me.
A pleasing aspect of the renovation programme is that the greens appear to have recovered more quickly than in the past. As yet it is unclear whether this was as a result of improved weather conditions or simply working out the wrinkles that have plagued us over the past two years. Assuming we proceed with the final 6 fairways later this year we will have another opportunity to ascertain the benefits of coring at an earlier date.
The definition of the proposed rough area has become clear and certainly there is now a premium on keeping the ball straight. At this stage the proposal is still a "work in progress" and is being carefully monitored to ascertain the true effects on the flow and pace of play. With some dry hot weather parts of the rough have burnt off as anticipated and become decidedly more playable so you thoughts would be appreciated.
You will also have noted that the fairways are "browning off" this is an intentional process designed to stress out the "poa" that has reseeded into the new fairways. Fairway watering has been limited on purpose and Mark will report to the next Board meeting on the success of this initiative. Realistically in the future the course will not be as "green" as it has been in the past as we will not need such an aggressive watering programme to maintain fairway coverage.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Club AGM ....................
The Club AGM took place on Tuesday 8 December 2010 at 7.30 pm in the Club House. Richard Peate was re-elected to the Board with Bryan Andrews being the other successful candidate. Along with Janet Christie-Anderson, Bryan is a new addition to the Board in the 2010 year.
Ken Fergus was elected unopposed as President taking over from Bruce Taylor who retired as at the end of the '09 year. Phillippa Idour assumes the role of Women's Captain and for a second year I fill the role of Men's Captain. The remainder of the Board consists of Dennis Doherty and Glenn Bongartz.
The new year brings continuing and new challenges and I look forward to outlining those to you over the next 12 months.
Ken Fergus was elected unopposed as President taking over from Bruce Taylor who retired as at the end of the '09 year. Phillippa Idour assumes the role of Women's Captain and for a second year I fill the role of Men's Captain. The remainder of the Board consists of Dennis Doherty and Glenn Bongartz.
The new year brings continuing and new challenges and I look forward to outlining those to you over the next 12 months.
Christchurch Casino Shootout Finals Night.......
From our guest reporter Charles "I'll have a little flutter - not" Whitwham.
On the evening of 26th November the team of Andrew Hopkins, David Morrison, David Robinson and Charles Whitwham attended the Casino to take part in the Christchurch Casino Shootout Finals night, having won the honour to represent Christchurch Golf Club by being the highest team stableford score during the playing of the Arthur Donnelly Salver. Other clubs that were present included Akaroa, Templeton, Weedons, Russley, Greendale, Everglades, Rangiora, Waimari Beach and Waimakariri Gorge.
The format for the evening had the teams of four split into pairs and going to separate tables to play Texas Hold'em poker (made popular by Casino Royale/James Bond film), with each half of the pair taking it in turn to sit at the table and play. After being given a brief rundown of the rules and the terminology used, such as big blind, little blind, check, fold, raise, call and all-in we got underway. The team that had the most points at the end of the night would be declared the winner and points were awarded for the value of the chips you had left. Once your chips had gone you were out of the game.
The first team to be eliminated was the all-female team from Everglades. High roller Hopkins noted that they had no idea how to play the game! Over on my table Dave Robinson and myself were not doing too badly until I lost when holding a pair of aces, beaten by 3 measly fours!! Soon we had too few chips left and were all-in, along with 3 other teams on our table. The poor dealer had his work cut out, having to form 5 separate pots for this round. I managed to win on the dealers turn of the last card by having a straight. The next round the player from Templeton was all-in and also got a straight on the last turn of the card to win another lifeline for his team. He then proceeded to do the same thing again in the next game to win the biggest pot on our table, at which point Dave and I were history. Over on the other table Andrew and Dave Morrison were also being eliminated.
The eventual winners were the team from Rangiora, with Greendale second and Russley third. A putting competition was also held and Dave Robinson made it all the way to the final where he lost in a sudden death putt-off against Jack Clark from Akaroa. It was nail-biting stuff!!!
Finger food and drinks were provided and at the end of the evening Grant Lewis, GM of Canterbury Golf presented a cheque for over $6,200 to Noel Chambers of the Golf Development Trust. We all enjoyed ourselves and vowed to form up next year to try and win through to this event again.
On the evening of 26th November the team of Andrew Hopkins, David Morrison, David Robinson and Charles Whitwham attended the Casino to take part in the Christchurch Casino Shootout Finals night, having won the honour to represent Christchurch Golf Club by being the highest team stableford score during the playing of the Arthur Donnelly Salver. Other clubs that were present included Akaroa, Templeton, Weedons, Russley, Greendale, Everglades, Rangiora, Waimari Beach and Waimakariri Gorge.
The format for the evening had the teams of four split into pairs and going to separate tables to play Texas Hold'em poker (made popular by Casino Royale/James Bond film), with each half of the pair taking it in turn to sit at the table and play. After being given a brief rundown of the rules and the terminology used, such as big blind, little blind, check, fold, raise, call and all-in we got underway. The team that had the most points at the end of the night would be declared the winner and points were awarded for the value of the chips you had left. Once your chips had gone you were out of the game.
The first team to be eliminated was the all-female team from Everglades. High roller Hopkins noted that they had no idea how to play the game! Over on my table Dave Robinson and myself were not doing too badly until I lost when holding a pair of aces, beaten by 3 measly fours!! Soon we had too few chips left and were all-in, along with 3 other teams on our table. The poor dealer had his work cut out, having to form 5 separate pots for this round. I managed to win on the dealers turn of the last card by having a straight. The next round the player from Templeton was all-in and also got a straight on the last turn of the card to win another lifeline for his team. He then proceeded to do the same thing again in the next game to win the biggest pot on our table, at which point Dave and I were history. Over on the other table Andrew and Dave Morrison were also being eliminated.
The eventual winners were the team from Rangiora, with Greendale second and Russley third. A putting competition was also held and Dave Robinson made it all the way to the final where he lost in a sudden death putt-off against Jack Clark from Akaroa. It was nail-biting stuff!!!
Finger food and drinks were provided and at the end of the evening Grant Lewis, GM of Canterbury Golf presented a cheque for over $6,200 to Noel Chambers of the Golf Development Trust. We all enjoyed ourselves and vowed to form up next year to try and win through to this event again.
Metro 2010..............
As I foreshadowed at the Metro breakup and confirmed in the Club Captains report it is not my intention to be the Team Advisor/ Manager for the Metro team in 2010. Despite some indications the competition my be changed to align it more closely with the revised Blank & Simon Cups it appears at least for the 2010 year Metro will remain the same.
The first round of matches is scheduled for the 31 January 2010 and in order to be in readiness a succession plan has been finalised. That well known eclectic golfer Steve "Scoreboard" Ellis has accepted the mantle of leadership and will be ably assisted by that doyen of the Christchurch Golf Club - Ben "I'm awake" Frampton. A ceremonial handing over of the notebook and the file will take place in the next few days and then await further contact from Steve.
Many thanks to all the members who have assisted me in the past four years to place a team out on the tee, unfortunately we have not been that successful but it was not from a wont of trying!! I hope to continue to make "the odd" appearance for Metro subject to selection criteria but at this date I do have a very healthy handicap!!
The other Metro legacy is that the genesis of this blog was from the Monday reports following the Sunday games; negotiations continue as to journalistic expectations!!!
The first round of matches is scheduled for the 31 January 2010 and in order to be in readiness a succession plan has been finalised. That well known eclectic golfer Steve "Scoreboard" Ellis has accepted the mantle of leadership and will be ably assisted by that doyen of the Christchurch Golf Club - Ben "I'm awake" Frampton. A ceremonial handing over of the notebook and the file will take place in the next few days and then await further contact from Steve.
Many thanks to all the members who have assisted me in the past four years to place a team out on the tee, unfortunately we have not been that successful but it was not from a wont of trying!! I hope to continue to make "the odd" appearance for Metro subject to selection criteria but at this date I do have a very healthy handicap!!
The other Metro legacy is that the genesis of this blog was from the Monday reports following the Sunday games; negotiations continue as to journalistic expectations!!!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
What's Happening Week of 23 November..............
The season continues to wind down this week with Mixed Closing Day on Saturday for the Wardrop Cleek, a mixed foursome stableford, sponsored by Macquarie Private Wealth represented at the Club by Simon Gilroy. We will be playing the 9 hole course with a multi tee start so limited afternoon tee times will be available for men and there will be a shotgun start in the morning. For planning purposes if you are intending to play on Saturday please get your name down as soon as possible.
Just a reminder of the other two important dates appearing in the calendar namely the AGM scheduled for Tuesday 8 December in the Club House at 7.30, the Annual Report will be mailed out during this week. The second date is the Summer Garden Party set down for Sunday 13 December with tickets available through the caterers at $35 a head on a first come first served basis.
The course moves into the next renovation stage with the greens continuing to recover and holes 9 & 10 coming out of play for the fairways to be dug up and relaid. The programme is proceeding according to plan so well done to Mark Lawson and his team.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Just a reminder of the other two important dates appearing in the calendar namely the AGM scheduled for Tuesday 8 December in the Club House at 7.30, the Annual Report will be mailed out during this week. The second date is the Summer Garden Party set down for Sunday 13 December with tickets available through the caterers at $35 a head on a first come first served basis.
The course moves into the next renovation stage with the greens continuing to recover and holes 9 & 10 coming out of play for the fairways to be dug up and relaid. The programme is proceeding according to plan so well done to Mark Lawson and his team.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
London Cup.............
Girlfriend arranged on Sunday for us both to play in an internal BNZ Tournament known as the London Cup held at McLeans Island Golf Club. The format was slightly unusual as it included a Teams Ambrose combined with a General Knowledge Quiz. At the conclusion of a hole a question was supplied and at the end of the round each correct answer entitled you to deduct 1 stroke from your score.
Our team included Jeff Suddens and David Sidaway and managed to score 14 out of 18 in the quiz and shot 3 under off the stick to finish second overall. Apparently this is really good result because if you win you have to organise next years tournament!! As a prize we collected a half ham each and in addition I won a spot prize of a $50 Westfield voucher so it was a Sunday well spent!!
I have to say I was reasonably impressed with the state of the course and would suggest if you are looking for a change you could do much worse than McLeans Island. The greens played well and the fairways were in good condition although I accept the layout is fairly straight forward.
Our team included Jeff Suddens and David Sidaway and managed to score 14 out of 18 in the quiz and shot 3 under off the stick to finish second overall. Apparently this is really good result because if you win you have to organise next years tournament!! As a prize we collected a half ham each and in addition I won a spot prize of a $50 Westfield voucher so it was a Sunday well spent!!
I have to say I was reasonably impressed with the state of the course and would suggest if you are looking for a change you could do much worse than McLeans Island. The greens played well and the fairways were in good condition although I accept the layout is fairly straight forward.
Monday, November 23, 2009
The Week That Was..............
The 2009 Men's Club Golf season came to a conclusion on Saturday with the playing of the McDougall Christmas Cup, the traditional closing day competition, sponsored by the BNZ represented at the club by Jeff Suddens, Lawson Scott, Alan Scott & Campbell Parker.
Played over 16 holes on a stableford basis the winning score was posted by a morning player Raymond Liong with 40 points on countback - not bad with 2 holes out and cored greens!! Leading home the Senior Grade was Ken Fergus on 36 points from Mitchell Vincent on 35 on countback from Keith Love. The first intermediate in was Hiroshi Naka with 38 points from Brian Adams on 37 by countback from Bryan Graham while a newer member Mark Thompson was the best Junior with 40 from Kevin McSoriley on 36 and Allan Masters on 35.
The two's pool climbed to $270 with 14 winners each receiving $19.30, the jackpot worth $104 was struck by Bryan Graham. Nearest the pins had a value of $35 and were won by Brian Ronan (3), Chris Richmond (7) and Hotta Fumio (11). Nett eagles were worth $115 with hole 17 being drawn and Dennis Maguire & Ray Vivian each taking $57.50. The Linden Leaves sponsored prize for closest to the pin on 2 for 2 was collected by David Kerr.
Nearest to the pin on 18 for 2 sponsored by Bejarong Thai Cuisine was won by Michael Hadley. After the completion of the round the final of the Benjarong Thai Cuisine Shootout was held with Bruce Taylor emerging as the victor with the third of his three attempts, given his strong performance during the year this was probably a "just" result. Many thanks to David Wallace for his on-going support through this sponsorship during the 2009 year.
In what was a busy day two other trophies were on the line for competition first there was the Joe Whitaker Memorial Putting Trophy which was won by Raymond Liong with 25 putts. In the other I played Bruce Taylor in the annual President v Club Captain match. Unfortunately Bruce had to give me a significant number of shots which in the end proved too much and allowed me to slip home - Bruce had 37 on the first nine but was 3 down hardly cricket really!!
Following on we then moved into the 2009 prize giving. Congratulations to all the winners and a special thank you to all those who turned up to receive their trophies in person. Organisation of the event is a major task and we are indebted to Struan Cain for his contribution for all his efforts in this regard. Congratulations to Joe Tiller who was the winner of the 2009 Golfer of the Year title.
Played over 16 holes on a stableford basis the winning score was posted by a morning player Raymond Liong with 40 points on countback - not bad with 2 holes out and cored greens!! Leading home the Senior Grade was Ken Fergus on 36 points from Mitchell Vincent on 35 on countback from Keith Love. The first intermediate in was Hiroshi Naka with 38 points from Brian Adams on 37 by countback from Bryan Graham while a newer member Mark Thompson was the best Junior with 40 from Kevin McSoriley on 36 and Allan Masters on 35.
The two's pool climbed to $270 with 14 winners each receiving $19.30, the jackpot worth $104 was struck by Bryan Graham. Nearest the pins had a value of $35 and were won by Brian Ronan (3), Chris Richmond (7) and Hotta Fumio (11). Nett eagles were worth $115 with hole 17 being drawn and Dennis Maguire & Ray Vivian each taking $57.50. The Linden Leaves sponsored prize for closest to the pin on 2 for 2 was collected by David Kerr.
Nearest to the pin on 18 for 2 sponsored by Bejarong Thai Cuisine was won by Michael Hadley. After the completion of the round the final of the Benjarong Thai Cuisine Shootout was held with Bruce Taylor emerging as the victor with the third of his three attempts, given his strong performance during the year this was probably a "just" result. Many thanks to David Wallace for his on-going support through this sponsorship during the 2009 year.
In what was a busy day two other trophies were on the line for competition first there was the Joe Whitaker Memorial Putting Trophy which was won by Raymond Liong with 25 putts. In the other I played Bruce Taylor in the annual President v Club Captain match. Unfortunately Bruce had to give me a significant number of shots which in the end proved too much and allowed me to slip home - Bruce had 37 on the first nine but was 3 down hardly cricket really!!
Following on we then moved into the 2009 prize giving. Congratulations to all the winners and a special thank you to all those who turned up to receive their trophies in person. Organisation of the event is a major task and we are indebted to Struan Cain for his contribution for all his efforts in this regard. Congratulations to Joe Tiller who was the winner of the 2009 Golfer of the Year title.
Congratulations to..............
Congratulations to our Woodward Cup captain and number one Tom Turner who has been selected for the Canterbury Tower Inter Provincial Team. This is a great reward for Tom who has worked hard on his golf game during the 2009 season. On behalf of the Club all the best for the coming competition.
Sunday saw Canterbury Golf's Champion of Champions competition take place at Harewood. We were represented by Brenden Follows, Dodge Healey & Don Forbes who finished a very credible third behind winners Waiariri Beach and in second the home club Harewood.
Sunday saw Canterbury Golf's Champion of Champions competition take place at Harewood. We were represented by Brenden Follows, Dodge Healey & Don Forbes who finished a very credible third behind winners Waiariri Beach and in second the home club Harewood.
Valley of Peace Cricket Match....................
A report from the intrepid reporter Glenn Bongartz. The Christchurch Golf Club 1st XI cricket team beats the Valley of the Peace. It has been a long time between drinks for the Christchurch Golf Club in this historic game of cricket. Wow, what a performance!
On a drizzly Sunday morning a group of young guns and older folk lined up for a game of cricket. Christchurch won the toss and after much discussion between on field and off field captains (Bongartz and McAlpine) the decision was made to bat. After the first over CGC were 1 down for 1, the ball was bouncing and seaming at the same time as not coming onto the bat, Great! Long story short, we finished on 263/4. M Rountree 101no, his 7th century at The Valley (he normally plays for The Valley in this fixture but is playing more golf so Callum secured his services). A flawless 91 from G Sanders (unlucky to be given LBW and took it like a gentleman) after a promotion from number 9 last year, and a quick fire 39no from Andy Bell. Bongartz and Loughnan also added to the score.
Going out to defend 263 at The Valley is a good place to be. We bowled the whole team (except Rountree as he had done his job) with the following wicket takers. Cumberpatch 5 overs 18/1 ,Kitney 4/13/1, Lamb 5/21/2, Sanders 2/4/1 Loughnan 2/0 runs/ 1 wicket, McAlpine 1/1/1, Bongartz 1/3/1, A Vincent 5/14/1 M Vincent 2/3/1 and 3 stunning catches. The Valley was all out for 97 and a win to us. All our players chipped in a great day was had by all.
A parade will be held through down town Christchurch when the CCC get back to us with a date.
We did suffer one major injury after the match with Liam Cumberpatch getting tangled in a tricky deck chair and nearly losing the top of a finger. The team wishes him well on the road back to full fitness.
Thanks to Callum and Gareth putting the team together , and a special thanks to the Valley of the Peace Cricket Club for inviting us again and putting on another great day (a bit better day than the last few years, for us anyway). The Valley will not be getting back Rountree next year as he fits our team dynamics.
On a drizzly Sunday morning a group of young guns and older folk lined up for a game of cricket. Christchurch won the toss and after much discussion between on field and off field captains (Bongartz and McAlpine) the decision was made to bat. After the first over CGC were 1 down for 1, the ball was bouncing and seaming at the same time as not coming onto the bat, Great! Long story short, we finished on 263/4. M Rountree 101no, his 7th century at The Valley (he normally plays for The Valley in this fixture but is playing more golf so Callum secured his services). A flawless 91 from G Sanders (unlucky to be given LBW and took it like a gentleman) after a promotion from number 9 last year, and a quick fire 39no from Andy Bell. Bongartz and Loughnan also added to the score.
Going out to defend 263 at The Valley is a good place to be. We bowled the whole team (except Rountree as he had done his job) with the following wicket takers. Cumberpatch 5 overs 18/1 ,Kitney 4/13/1, Lamb 5/21/2, Sanders 2/4/1 Loughnan 2/0 runs/ 1 wicket, McAlpine 1/1/1, Bongartz 1/3/1, A Vincent 5/14/1 M Vincent 2/3/1 and 3 stunning catches. The Valley was all out for 97 and a win to us. All our players chipped in a great day was had by all.
A parade will be held through down town Christchurch when the CCC get back to us with a date.
We did suffer one major injury after the match with Liam Cumberpatch getting tangled in a tricky deck chair and nearly losing the top of a finger. The team wishes him well on the road back to full fitness.
Thanks to Callum and Gareth putting the team together , and a special thanks to the Valley of the Peace Cricket Club for inviting us again and putting on another great day (a bit better day than the last few years, for us anyway). The Valley will not be getting back Rountree next year as he fits our team dynamics.
A Journey South................
After a fall out and a crash and burn my Journey South to Dunedin was slightly curtailed!! However there are a couple of interesting points to note:
1) Respectable coffee can be obtained from the Classic Cafe which is a coffee cart located in a square off Princes Street by the Whitcliffe Building (opp. the Casino sort of).
2) Unless in dire need of exercise do not attempt to walk up High Street especially if you are only going to a supermarket. Walking down isn't that easy either.
3) The road between Dunedin & Balclutha is quite busy given I did two trips down there. Good coffee can be obtained from the Gate Cafe. It also appears the further South you go the more relaxed the life style - at times a mixed blessing.
4) You can get lost in Dunedin. I lost the Department of Labour. Ventures into a number of buildings on Princes Street failed to ascertain its whereabouts however a somewhat panicked phone call home established the premises were in fact now in Bond Street - I arrived seconds before the mediation was due to start.
5) Whenever I attend Dunedin it rains at least for part of the time!!
Apart from that a good time was had by all.
1) Respectable coffee can be obtained from the Classic Cafe which is a coffee cart located in a square off Princes Street by the Whitcliffe Building (opp. the Casino sort of).
2) Unless in dire need of exercise do not attempt to walk up High Street especially if you are only going to a supermarket. Walking down isn't that easy either.
3) The road between Dunedin & Balclutha is quite busy given I did two trips down there. Good coffee can be obtained from the Gate Cafe. It also appears the further South you go the more relaxed the life style - at times a mixed blessing.
4) You can get lost in Dunedin. I lost the Department of Labour. Ventures into a number of buildings on Princes Street failed to ascertain its whereabouts however a somewhat panicked phone call home established the premises were in fact now in Bond Street - I arrived seconds before the mediation was due to start.
5) Whenever I attend Dunedin it rains at least for part of the time!!
Apart from that a good time was had by all.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Into The Twilight Zone...............
Helen from the Dunedin office is a keen golfer and often our work discussions are predicated by an update of our respective games and swing. Using her best endeavours Helen skillfully arranged my work schedule that I would be free to play twilight golf with her on Wednesday night.
As instructed I presented myself at Belleknowes Golf Club at the appointed time full of expectation. For those of you who are from outside Dunedin Belleknowes is situated just on the edge of the town belt with spectacular views over the city. Affectionately known as the "Tin Hat Club" it is a municipal course and is very compact in nature with a number of adjacent and intersecting fairways- a cross between Ascot and Richmond Hill - with 7 par 3's and 2 par 4's on the Men's card.
The layout is challenging and calls for a high degree of accuracy with your irons given the close proximity of OB and skinny fairways - not exactly the strength of my game. The second hole is especially challenging a 228 metre par 3 with a blind tee shot over a bluff then down hill to a narrow green. The finishing hole at 197 metre uphill back to the club house ensures there is no easy finish. The greens were on the slow side but seemed to run true provided you allowed for the break.
While not perhaps of Championship standard the course provided an interesting walk and is ideally suited to those short of time or looking for and introduction to the game. The members were very friendly and the green fees low (twilight cost me $4 plus $6 for a dinner - curried sausages).
As instructed I presented myself at Belleknowes Golf Club at the appointed time full of expectation. For those of you who are from outside Dunedin Belleknowes is situated just on the edge of the town belt with spectacular views over the city. Affectionately known as the "Tin Hat Club" it is a municipal course and is very compact in nature with a number of adjacent and intersecting fairways- a cross between Ascot and Richmond Hill - with 7 par 3's and 2 par 4's on the Men's card.
The layout is challenging and calls for a high degree of accuracy with your irons given the close proximity of OB and skinny fairways - not exactly the strength of my game. The second hole is especially challenging a 228 metre par 3 with a blind tee shot over a bluff then down hill to a narrow green. The finishing hole at 197 metre uphill back to the club house ensures there is no easy finish. The greens were on the slow side but seemed to run true provided you allowed for the break.
While not perhaps of Championship standard the course provided an interesting walk and is ideally suited to those short of time or looking for and introduction to the game. The members were very friendly and the green fees low (twilight cost me $4 plus $6 for a dinner - curried sausages).
Thought For The Week..............
I really enjoy long walks especially when they are taken by people who annoy me!!!!
Monday, November 16, 2009
What's Happening This Week.............
The culmination of the 2009 golfing season takes place on Saturday 21 with Men's Closing Day followed by the prize giving. The Match of the Day is sponsored by the BNZ and is a shotgun start at 8.00 & 12.30 for the McDougall Christmas Cup on individual stableford. Given the fairway renovations we will be playing over 16 holes.
If you have been lucky enough to win a trophy during the year it would be really great if you could make the effort to be there in person on Saturday to pick it up it makes it all the more worthwhile and you get the recognition you deserve. If you were a winner in 2008 and have not yet returned your trophy please do so now as a matter of urgency!!
Other dates to note are Mixed Closing Day on 28 November sponsored by Macquarie Private Wealth and the Club AGM on 8 December at 7.30 at the Clubhouse.
On a personal note this week sees me in Dunedin for four days. I hope to play in a twilight on Wednesday but apart from that I will have to see what develops especially as the Regional Manager for some reason is following me in making a visit!! It was of course raining when I arrived - some things never change.
If you have been lucky enough to win a trophy during the year it would be really great if you could make the effort to be there in person on Saturday to pick it up it makes it all the more worthwhile and you get the recognition you deserve. If you were a winner in 2008 and have not yet returned your trophy please do so now as a matter of urgency!!
Other dates to note are Mixed Closing Day on 28 November sponsored by Macquarie Private Wealth and the Club AGM on 8 December at 7.30 at the Clubhouse.
On a personal note this week sees me in Dunedin for four days. I hope to play in a twilight on Wednesday but apart from that I will have to see what develops especially as the Regional Manager for some reason is following me in making a visit!! It was of course raining when I arrived - some things never change.
The Week That Was.............
A combination of a long weekend, the races and cored greens saw a very limited number of golfers tee it up on Saturday in a Greensome Two Stroke Competition. Notwithstanding the sporting nature of the greens some excellent scores were recorded.
Winning the club competition was the pairing of Richard Peate & Simon Robinson on a nett 66 from Gary Forward & Steve Ellis on nett 67 with David Robinson and Brendon Follows on nett 68. The best round of the day was recorded Andrew & Bryan (non member) Gillespie who shot a nett 65.
The two's pool reached the dizzy heights of $75 and there were three winners - Bryan Gillespie, Gary Forward & Steve Ellis each receiving $25. A new jackpot pool of $44 was not struck. Nearest the pins were Gary Forward on 3 and Richard Peate on 11 another $25 each. Closest to the pin on 2x2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Liam Cumberpatch and the winner of the Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher for nearest to the pin on 18 x 2 was Gary Forward (all in all a good day for Gary Forward!!)
Winning the club competition was the pairing of Richard Peate & Simon Robinson on a nett 66 from Gary Forward & Steve Ellis on nett 67 with David Robinson and Brendon Follows on nett 68. The best round of the day was recorded Andrew & Bryan (non member) Gillespie who shot a nett 65.
The two's pool reached the dizzy heights of $75 and there were three winners - Bryan Gillespie, Gary Forward & Steve Ellis each receiving $25. A new jackpot pool of $44 was not struck. Nearest the pins were Gary Forward on 3 and Richard Peate on 11 another $25 each. Closest to the pin on 2x2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Liam Cumberpatch and the winner of the Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher for nearest to the pin on 18 x 2 was Gary Forward (all in all a good day for Gary Forward!!)
Around the Course..............
Last week the course was closed on Monday and Tuesday to allow the greens staff to scarify, core and sand the greens. With a little help from the weather, it didn't rain too badly, the programme was completed within time and we were back ready for play on Wednesday - unfortunately the was a scarcity of golfers!!! The greens appear to have survived the ordeal in reasonable order and Mark Lawson is confident they will recover more quickly than last year.
This week sees us move to stage two of the fairway renovations with holes 13 & 14 coming out of play. With the learning's from last year we are confident that the whole process will move through without difficulty and we back "on the grass" for 18 by the 2010 Opening Day in late January.
Since just before the Shirley Open there has been considerable discussion in regards to the state of the rough. The situation has been heightened by a vigorous spring growing season especially in some areas where there has been new seedings. Over the summer months we will be trialing a new system of rough control which will see the second cut extended and a longer third cut but the balance of the rough left longer and mowed on a more infrequent basis (bear in mind during summer a lot of this area is unwatered and will burn off).
The rationale for this move is both as a cost saving in terms mowing and maintenance but also to strengthen the course. Given its Links nature at Shirley you are penalised for a wayward shot by distance only and this new programme seeks to focus and reward the golfer on hitting the fairways rather than hitting and hoping (this will necessarily bring some changes to my game!!!).
The Board will monitor the situation over the next wee while to gauge the effects of the proposed changes. If you have any comments or wish to discuss the matter further please feel free to speak with me.
This week sees us move to stage two of the fairway renovations with holes 13 & 14 coming out of play. With the learning's from last year we are confident that the whole process will move through without difficulty and we back "on the grass" for 18 by the 2010 Opening Day in late January.
Since just before the Shirley Open there has been considerable discussion in regards to the state of the rough. The situation has been heightened by a vigorous spring growing season especially in some areas where there has been new seedings. Over the summer months we will be trialing a new system of rough control which will see the second cut extended and a longer third cut but the balance of the rough left longer and mowed on a more infrequent basis (bear in mind during summer a lot of this area is unwatered and will burn off).
The rationale for this move is both as a cost saving in terms mowing and maintenance but also to strengthen the course. Given its Links nature at Shirley you are penalised for a wayward shot by distance only and this new programme seeks to focus and reward the golfer on hitting the fairways rather than hitting and hoping (this will necessarily bring some changes to my game!!!).
The Board will monitor the situation over the next wee while to gauge the effects of the proposed changes. If you have any comments or wish to discuss the matter further please feel free to speak with me.
Changes at Harewood................
Sunday saw me head, with girlfriend, to Harewood for 9 holes in the morning. It was interesting to note that "the old course" is undergoing extensive reconstruction as a result of the airport sale and is in fact currently reduced to nine holes.
The holes in play are 1-5, 9, 16 - 18 and while there was a deal of walking between some of the tees the flow of play was reasonable. Given the size of the renovations it will be interesting to see how long it is before the revised holes are back in play especially as peering through the ropes the sub soil was very "boney' to say the least.
The holes in play are 1-5, 9, 16 - 18 and while there was a deal of walking between some of the tees the flow of play was reasonable. Given the size of the renovations it will be interesting to see how long it is before the revised holes are back in play especially as peering through the ropes the sub soil was very "boney' to say the least.
Valley of Peace Cricket.........
Christchurch Golf Club is very fortunate to be on the Valley of Peace playing roster and this Sunday 22 November is the scheduled fixture. If you are interested in playing cricket at this iconic Christchurch venue please speak directly to either Callum at the pro shop or Glenn Bongartz. All the best for the team in their endeavours.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Summer Garden Party.................
Just a very brief reminder that tickets to the Summer Garden Party scheduled for Sunday 13 December are now on sale through Amanda on a first come first served basis. The cost is $35 and that covers both finger food and alcohol.
Please book in early so we are able to finalise the catering as soon as possible. This will be an excellent event in and around the clubhouse overlooking the course with some other activities (of a golfing) nature also planned.
Please book in early so we are able to finalise the catering as soon as possible. This will be an excellent event in and around the clubhouse overlooking the course with some other activities (of a golfing) nature also planned.
Monday, November 9, 2009
The 2009 Shootout...........
The Shirley Links Golf Shop sponsored Shootout Final took place on Sunday 8 November with 19 golfers waiting expectantly on the tee. Last week I said prepare for a 6 hour round but that was optimistic in the extreme as it was over seven hours before we finally had a winner after a closely contested match.
It was disclosed to me that during the week prior there was considerable banter between golfing buddies Grant Adamson and Michael Ambrose as to who may fold under the pressure earliest. Unfortunately it was Grant who had difficulty with the rough on the first and went out only to be closely followed by Michael at the second after difficulties with the sand - not quite what they had planned.
Players to bow out in order were Peter Law (3), Ray Vivian (4), David Young (5), Clifford Chan (6), Ross Campbell (7), Philip Hong (8), & David Youn (9). The highest handicapper in the field Mike Stenhouse on 23 ran into trouble with the tussocks on 10 and never really got back into the hole on 10. Raymond Liong had been playing well with some huge drives off the tee but unfortunately he visited the sand which he didn't seem to want to leave on 11 to go out after Niven Boyle sunk an important 6 ft breaking putt for a 5 after being in the trees short right.
Returning back over the road David Kerr, with his father Michael on the bag, had been solid in all the early holes but was caught out on 12 when it looked as though there may be a major shootout when he could not make his putt to stay in the game. The absence of a shot on the difficult 13 put an end to the run of Tony Park who had been well supported in the "book". Niven Boyle will undoubtedly have nightmares about 13 which was hole where he went out last year and again this year especially after such a massive drive way down over the hill and past the gums on the left.
The group was now down to 5 with 4 having a shot on 15 and Jin Ho Neoh having 2. A drive slightly right put David Wallace deep in the "cabbage" from which at least initially he was unable to extract himself with a rescue wood and he was subsequently eliminated. Going down 16 it was only Jin Ho who had a shot and even an effective 4 putt saw him safely through as was Peter Hollister with a bogey. Making double were Alan Scott and Brian Tyro and they moved to a shoot out - with Brian putting his closer meaning Scotty went out - perhaps the beer wasn't the best idea!
Nerves were beginning to be stretched and Peter Hollister's drive ended on top of the right hand bunkers with a difficult recovery shot, having played out he then missed the green left into the heavy rough and he struggled from then on to be the penultimate player eliminated. Moving to the 18 tee were Brian Tyro & Jin Ho Neoh, the advantage lay slightly in Ho's favour given he had a shot up his sleeve.
It would be an understatement to say a drama then unfolded; both players hit wayward drives, Brian right and Ho left. Neither player had a shot to the green and both had to chip out in Ho's case backwards and then sideways. Raising to the occasion Ho put his 4 on the green, pin high but well to to the left. Unfortunately Brian's chip had travelled through the fairway and had drawn a bare lie in the left rough and he was unable to make the green with his third. However Brian then played a superb chip to leave himself with an uphill putt for 5 . Ho calmly played a lag to have a tap in for 6 nett 5 meaning Brian needed to sink his to move to a shoot out. Although Brian hit a good putt it slipped past the hole on the left to mean the Shootout title for 2009 was claimed by Jin Ho Neoh.
Thanks to all those who helped make the day a great success - Trig, Dennis Doherty and Rod O'Brien for their work on the greens, Struan for keeping the score, and Amanda & Andrew Vincent for sending out supplies with Mitchell and Liam when they were desperately needed!!
It was disclosed to me that during the week prior there was considerable banter between golfing buddies Grant Adamson and Michael Ambrose as to who may fold under the pressure earliest. Unfortunately it was Grant who had difficulty with the rough on the first and went out only to be closely followed by Michael at the second after difficulties with the sand - not quite what they had planned.
Players to bow out in order were Peter Law (3), Ray Vivian (4), David Young (5), Clifford Chan (6), Ross Campbell (7), Philip Hong (8), & David Youn (9). The highest handicapper in the field Mike Stenhouse on 23 ran into trouble with the tussocks on 10 and never really got back into the hole on 10. Raymond Liong had been playing well with some huge drives off the tee but unfortunately he visited the sand which he didn't seem to want to leave on 11 to go out after Niven Boyle sunk an important 6 ft breaking putt for a 5 after being in the trees short right.
Returning back over the road David Kerr, with his father Michael on the bag, had been solid in all the early holes but was caught out on 12 when it looked as though there may be a major shootout when he could not make his putt to stay in the game. The absence of a shot on the difficult 13 put an end to the run of Tony Park who had been well supported in the "book". Niven Boyle will undoubtedly have nightmares about 13 which was hole where he went out last year and again this year especially after such a massive drive way down over the hill and past the gums on the left.
The group was now down to 5 with 4 having a shot on 15 and Jin Ho Neoh having 2. A drive slightly right put David Wallace deep in the "cabbage" from which at least initially he was unable to extract himself with a rescue wood and he was subsequently eliminated. Going down 16 it was only Jin Ho who had a shot and even an effective 4 putt saw him safely through as was Peter Hollister with a bogey. Making double were Alan Scott and Brian Tyro and they moved to a shoot out - with Brian putting his closer meaning Scotty went out - perhaps the beer wasn't the best idea!
Nerves were beginning to be stretched and Peter Hollister's drive ended on top of the right hand bunkers with a difficult recovery shot, having played out he then missed the green left into the heavy rough and he struggled from then on to be the penultimate player eliminated. Moving to the 18 tee were Brian Tyro & Jin Ho Neoh, the advantage lay slightly in Ho's favour given he had a shot up his sleeve.
It would be an understatement to say a drama then unfolded; both players hit wayward drives, Brian right and Ho left. Neither player had a shot to the green and both had to chip out in Ho's case backwards and then sideways. Raising to the occasion Ho put his 4 on the green, pin high but well to to the left. Unfortunately Brian's chip had travelled through the fairway and had drawn a bare lie in the left rough and he was unable to make the green with his third. However Brian then played a superb chip to leave himself with an uphill putt for 5 . Ho calmly played a lag to have a tap in for 6 nett 5 meaning Brian needed to sink his to move to a shoot out. Although Brian hit a good putt it slipped past the hole on the left to mean the Shootout title for 2009 was claimed by Jin Ho Neoh.
Thanks to all those who helped make the day a great success - Trig, Dennis Doherty and Rod O'Brien for their work on the greens, Struan for keeping the score, and Amanda & Andrew Vincent for sending out supplies with Mitchell and Liam when they were desperately needed!!
Norton Francis Cup..............
Saturday afternoon on 7 November saw 10 visiting clubs descend on Shirley Links for the 78th playing of the Norton Francis Cup. The competition is decided by way of a teams fourball par competition with Club Members playing for the Markers Cup on the same basis. Norton Francis was Club President for 12 years from 1928 to 1939 and its was his vision to have the "country clubs" come to town to play at least once each year.
The overall winner was the Gleniti Club from Timaru with a score of +14, in second on +11 were Rakaia who recovered from a slow start to perform with credit, in third place were the previously well performed Tai Tapu team. It was interesting to note the rivalry between Rakaia and Mayfield where there was definitely more at stake than just pride - long discussions were held as to which Hotel on the return trip would be visited and who would be paying.
Leading home the Club members was the team of Paul Dunn, JD, Mark Fiebig, & Simon Yorke with an impressive score of +20, an inquiry may yet follow. In second in what would normally be a winning score of +16 was Grant Mitchell, Joe Mullins, Barry O'Neill & Andrew Vincent. Back in third by comparison on a mere +14 were 2 family combinations Jack & Ian MacDonald with Don & Ryan Forbes.
If you can not win at least you want to avoid receiving the wooden spoon. For the visiting clubs that dubious honour went to the Akaroa team on -2 who were lead by a long time Christchurch member Ken Elliott - obviously local knowledge was of limited help. Graham Clark, Ian Walker, Ahmad Hosseini & Jeff Suddens received the trophy on behalf of the members on +3. I suspect the comment "At least we got a prize!!" was more in frustration than anything else.
The day was a great success with a very friendly and appreciative gathering in the Clubhouse at the end of the day. The comments from the visitors reinforced to the members present the value and goodwill generated by this Match as well as many expressions as to the high standard of the course and its presentation (we don't know how lucky we are!!)!
The overall winner was the Gleniti Club from Timaru with a score of +14, in second on +11 were Rakaia who recovered from a slow start to perform with credit, in third place were the previously well performed Tai Tapu team. It was interesting to note the rivalry between Rakaia and Mayfield where there was definitely more at stake than just pride - long discussions were held as to which Hotel on the return trip would be visited and who would be paying.
Leading home the Club members was the team of Paul Dunn, JD, Mark Fiebig, & Simon Yorke with an impressive score of +20, an inquiry may yet follow. In second in what would normally be a winning score of +16 was Grant Mitchell, Joe Mullins, Barry O'Neill & Andrew Vincent. Back in third by comparison on a mere +14 were 2 family combinations Jack & Ian MacDonald with Don & Ryan Forbes.
If you can not win at least you want to avoid receiving the wooden spoon. For the visiting clubs that dubious honour went to the Akaroa team on -2 who were lead by a long time Christchurch member Ken Elliott - obviously local knowledge was of limited help. Graham Clark, Ian Walker, Ahmad Hosseini & Jeff Suddens received the trophy on behalf of the members on +3. I suspect the comment "At least we got a prize!!" was more in frustration than anything else.
The day was a great success with a very friendly and appreciative gathering in the Clubhouse at the end of the day. The comments from the visitors reinforced to the members present the value and goodwill generated by this Match as well as many expressions as to the high standard of the course and its presentation (we don't know how lucky we are!!)!
Thought For The Week.................
If at first you don't succeed, destroy all evidence that you tried!!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
What's Happening Week of 2 November............
This week sees me in Wellington for a two and a bit day workshop/conference on "Risk Management As Regulatory Strategy" run by Malcolm Sparrow a visiting Professor from Havard's John F Kennedy School of Government - a fun time at the Brentwood Hotel. A check of my calender shows a couple of mediations in the balance of the week so the tax payer will be getting value for dollar!
On the golf front Saturday sees the Norton Francis Cup with 13 visiting clubs participating on a combined pairs four-ball par competition while the members play for the Markers Cup on the same basis. Please get you names down as soon as possible as this is always an enjoyable day and the visiting clubs appreciate the efforts made.
Sunday is scheduled for the final of the Shootout sponsored by the Shirley Links Golf Shop, many thanks to Ant & JB. This is a long day for the organisers and the players but it is well worthwhile to be present at some part of the day particularly the finish which normally incorporates some form of drama. If you are in the field bank on at least a six hour round if you get to the final holes and with 19 hitting off a long first!!
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before!
On the golf front Saturday sees the Norton Francis Cup with 13 visiting clubs participating on a combined pairs four-ball par competition while the members play for the Markers Cup on the same basis. Please get you names down as soon as possible as this is always an enjoyable day and the visiting clubs appreciate the efforts made.
Sunday is scheduled for the final of the Shootout sponsored by the Shirley Links Golf Shop, many thanks to Ant & JB. This is a long day for the organisers and the players but it is well worthwhile to be present at some part of the day particularly the finish which normally incorporates some form of drama. If you are in the field bank on at least a six hour round if you get to the final holes and with 19 hitting off a long first!!
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before!
Course Happenings.........
You will find at the Club House a handout prepared by Struan confirming the timetable for the course renovation and the revised events.
Briefly the Greens will be cored and scarified on Monday 9 & Tuesday 10 November. The first holes no.'s 13 & 14 will be taken out for fairway renovation on Monday 16 November - 16 holes in play. The following week Monday 21 November holes 9 & 10 come out 14 holes in play. The final holes 7 & 8 come out on Monday 30 November and we move to the 9 hole layout.
During the renovation period tee times for the 9 holes will be 8.00am to 10am then 12 noon to 2.00pm and after 4.00pm. Please note that the 9 hole course will be rated for handicap purposes.
Briefly the Greens will be cored and scarified on Monday 9 & Tuesday 10 November. The first holes no.'s 13 & 14 will be taken out for fairway renovation on Monday 16 November - 16 holes in play. The following week Monday 21 November holes 9 & 10 come out 14 holes in play. The final holes 7 & 8 come out on Monday 30 November and we move to the 9 hole layout.
During the renovation period tee times for the 9 holes will be 8.00am to 10am then 12 noon to 2.00pm and after 4.00pm. Please note that the 9 hole course will be rated for handicap purposes.
Monday, November 2, 2009
A Visit to Hutt Golf Club.............
The cheapest airfare had me arrive in Wellington on Monday just after midday but not required to register for my conference until 6.00. Not being one to miss an opportunity I took half a days leave and arranged to play golf with Brooke who is not only the daughter of a colleague but also at times doubles as the food taster for the food fairy.
Time constraints and travel required a quick round so the Hutt Golf Club was the course of choice. The Hutt is a par 70 and a relatively short course with only 2 par 5's but is comparatively tight on the front nine. After two straight forward holes to start the course increases in difficulty and there is a premium on keeping it straight. The fairways are lined with mature pine trees but it was a Monkey Puzzle Tree that ate my ball.
The second nine provides more room off the tee and I felt comfortable taking a driver which certainly shortened up the holes. The 18th is the shortest par 3 I have played for a while measuring just 98m and played over water to a three level green. The course was probably not at its best with the greens having been recently cored and the fairways spiked but it was an enjoyable game. Although appearing flat my legs told me I had a good workout over an undulating surface.
Three points of interest were; Brooke played from the 'white tees' (she plays softball for NZ, is the designated hitter & for a considerable time I thought she would beat me off the stick), Steve Ellis is on the honours board by the 1st tee for the 1999 Arbor Day Cup, & the Club is considering merging with its neighbour the Boulcott Golf Club - a sign of the times perhaps?
Time constraints and travel required a quick round so the Hutt Golf Club was the course of choice. The Hutt is a par 70 and a relatively short course with only 2 par 5's but is comparatively tight on the front nine. After two straight forward holes to start the course increases in difficulty and there is a premium on keeping it straight. The fairways are lined with mature pine trees but it was a Monkey Puzzle Tree that ate my ball.
The second nine provides more room off the tee and I felt comfortable taking a driver which certainly shortened up the holes. The 18th is the shortest par 3 I have played for a while measuring just 98m and played over water to a three level green. The course was probably not at its best with the greens having been recently cored and the fairways spiked but it was an enjoyable game. Although appearing flat my legs told me I had a good workout over an undulating surface.
Three points of interest were; Brooke played from the 'white tees' (she plays softball for NZ, is the designated hitter & for a considerable time I thought she would beat me off the stick), Steve Ellis is on the honours board by the 1st tee for the 1999 Arbor Day Cup, & the Club is considering merging with its neighbour the Boulcott Golf Club - a sign of the times perhaps?
The Week That Was..................
Saturday was an important day for the Club and the generosity of the members was overwhelming in that we raised $4500.00 for Ian Wagstaff and his family. A special thank you to Bryan Andrews and Struan Cain for all their work in making this a most successful and worthwhile day.
Bryan Andrews Auctioneers were the sponsor of the day and in addition to Ian funds were also raised for the Canterbury Golf Development Trust. The competition was Pairs Aggregate Stableford from the Blue Tees on the Alternate Course - a challenge for us all especially with the tees right back!! To provide for a fairer match Bryan provided both a morning and afternoon prize table however strangely this was the one day where the afternoon players seemed to have an advantage.
The morning winners were Richard Pearce & Martin Toon on 63 points from Jim Paulsen & Kevin McSoriley on 62 with Russell Lange & Michael Hadley on 60 in third. Three people made two's Mike Hadley, Graeme Watson & Vaughan McMillan qualifying for 3 balls each. In the afternoon Dave Morrison & Dave Robinson came in first with 71 points and were the winners of the Arthur Donnelly Salver, Steve & Matthew Hicks were second on 68 on countback from Tony Park & Dyuk-Hyun Kim.
In the afternoon ladies Janet Osborn & Amanda Isaac put together a respectable 64 points for a merit award. The winning team for the Christchurch Casino Shootout was Andrew Hopkins, Charles Whitwham, Dave Robinson & Dave Morrison - more details of this competition will follow. Six players made two's and each get 3 balls - Kerry Haycock, Bryan Pearson, Bryan Andrews, Paddy Helmore, Ian Walker & Duck-Hyun Kim.
Nearest the pin on 18 sponsored by Benjarong Thai Cuisine was Ian Walker while Graham Clark won the Linden Leaves prize for closest to the pin on 11 (normal 2). Closest to the pins on 3 (11) Philip Hong, 6 (7) Grant Mitchell & 12 (3) Paddy Helmore. Once again thanks to all who made this day a success and Bryan Andrews for his support.
Bryan Andrews Auctioneers were the sponsor of the day and in addition to Ian funds were also raised for the Canterbury Golf Development Trust. The competition was Pairs Aggregate Stableford from the Blue Tees on the Alternate Course - a challenge for us all especially with the tees right back!! To provide for a fairer match Bryan provided both a morning and afternoon prize table however strangely this was the one day where the afternoon players seemed to have an advantage.
The morning winners were Richard Pearce & Martin Toon on 63 points from Jim Paulsen & Kevin McSoriley on 62 with Russell Lange & Michael Hadley on 60 in third. Three people made two's Mike Hadley, Graeme Watson & Vaughan McMillan qualifying for 3 balls each. In the afternoon Dave Morrison & Dave Robinson came in first with 71 points and were the winners of the Arthur Donnelly Salver, Steve & Matthew Hicks were second on 68 on countback from Tony Park & Dyuk-Hyun Kim.
In the afternoon ladies Janet Osborn & Amanda Isaac put together a respectable 64 points for a merit award. The winning team for the Christchurch Casino Shootout was Andrew Hopkins, Charles Whitwham, Dave Robinson & Dave Morrison - more details of this competition will follow. Six players made two's and each get 3 balls - Kerry Haycock, Bryan Pearson, Bryan Andrews, Paddy Helmore, Ian Walker & Duck-Hyun Kim.
Nearest the pin on 18 sponsored by Benjarong Thai Cuisine was Ian Walker while Graham Clark won the Linden Leaves prize for closest to the pin on 11 (normal 2). Closest to the pins on 3 (11) Philip Hong, 6 (7) Grant Mitchell & 12 (3) Paddy Helmore. Once again thanks to all who made this day a success and Bryan Andrews for his support.
It's All About Me..........
On Saturday I managed to navigate the course from the blue tees with the same ball from start to finish. What a difference a day makes - Sunday saw the disappearance of "5" golf balls: one out of bounds, one up a tree, one into the water and two lost to the Shirley rough - to the right of nine & beyond the bunkers on 5. All returns gratefully accepted - balls marked with a smiley face!!
Sunday also saw me play my first full round with my girlfriend (as an other pairing in the Mixed Match) and I think it fair to say there is room for improvement in both our games particularly mine!! In addition to 5 lost balls there was also an indiscretion (of the golfing kind) in the heavy rough which necessitated the subsequent purchase of alcohol! After such a performance I could find myself dropped!!
Finally any stories/rumours emanating from the Carlton Hotel car park are exaggerated and have grown in the telling - there was merely a goodnight kiss.
Sunday also saw me play my first full round with my girlfriend (as an other pairing in the Mixed Match) and I think it fair to say there is room for improvement in both our games particularly mine!! In addition to 5 lost balls there was also an indiscretion (of the golfing kind) in the heavy rough which necessitated the subsequent purchase of alcohol! After such a performance I could find myself dropped!!
Finally any stories/rumours emanating from the Carlton Hotel car park are exaggerated and have grown in the telling - there was merely a goodnight kiss.
Odd Spots......
In a busy Sunday the over 50's also played at Shirley and good scores were recorded by the home team - Ken Fergus 78, Steve Hicks 81, Tony Park 81 & Dennis Maguire 82. The team has set its sights on the nett prize and they are still well in the running more updates will follow.
Congratulations to John Sanders who has again been selected to represent New Zealand in a Masters tournament to be held in Malaysia. We will expect on going reports from JB when he returns, in the interim congratulations from the whole club.
One of the outcomes from the Shirley Open is that Steve Ellis now has a new nickname being his call sign on the communications system "Scoreboard Steve". Initially required to differentiate him from referee Steve Hicks the name stuck and became a feature over the weekend as did Steve's dedication to his job when he refused to leave his post for lunch requiring it instead to be delivered out to him behind the 8th green!!
Congratulations to John Sanders who has again been selected to represent New Zealand in a Masters tournament to be held in Malaysia. We will expect on going reports from JB when he returns, in the interim congratulations from the whole club.
One of the outcomes from the Shirley Open is that Steve Ellis now has a new nickname being his call sign on the communications system "Scoreboard Steve". Initially required to differentiate him from referee Steve Hicks the name stuck and became a feature over the weekend as did Steve's dedication to his job when he refused to leave his post for lunch requiring it instead to be delivered out to him behind the 8th green!!
Hill Skinner Cup.....
Braving the Shirley rough a field of 32 turned out to do battle for the Hill Skinner Cup the symbol of supremacy for the Husband & Wife combination of the Christchurch Golf Club. The competition was by way of four-ball par not stableford as some competitors believed.
Conditions were challenging with a nor'easter keeping the temperatures moderate and the course being decidedly testing. Taking those matters into consideration the scoring was understandably slightly less than would have otherwise been anticipated. However on a score of +7 by countback the winners were David Robinson & Stephanie Beth from Raj Rajendra & Nancy Lim closely followed by Struan & Terry Cain on +6 in third by countback from Grant & Janet Osborn who had eventually got their card correct.
Probably indicative of the difficulty of the day was that no 2's were recorded. The prize for closest to the pin on 18 for two for men was Struan Cain and for women for three was Nancy Lim. Hitting off first from number one was the final of the Page Trophy where eventually Murray & Lorraine Smith were victorious over Alan and Karyn Scott.
The next Mixed Event is closing day scheduled for 28 November a mixed foursome stableford sponsored by Macquarie Private Wealth. Please note it will be a shotgun start but playing the nine hole layout twice.
Conditions were challenging with a nor'easter keeping the temperatures moderate and the course being decidedly testing. Taking those matters into consideration the scoring was understandably slightly less than would have otherwise been anticipated. However on a score of +7 by countback the winners were David Robinson & Stephanie Beth from Raj Rajendra & Nancy Lim closely followed by Struan & Terry Cain on +6 in third by countback from Grant & Janet Osborn who had eventually got their card correct.
Probably indicative of the difficulty of the day was that no 2's were recorded. The prize for closest to the pin on 18 for two for men was Struan Cain and for women for three was Nancy Lim. Hitting off first from number one was the final of the Page Trophy where eventually Murray & Lorraine Smith were victorious over Alan and Karyn Scott.
The next Mixed Event is closing day scheduled for 28 November a mixed foursome stableford sponsored by Macquarie Private Wealth. Please note it will be a shotgun start but playing the nine hole layout twice.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
President's Grade Report..............
From the Manager of President's Dennis Doherty the following report was filed!!
A very brief positive report: we won 4.5 to 3.5 - a brilliant result and our first win of the season against a strong opposition Russley.
The match finished was the way it should - decided on the last putt. Fortunately Taiji, one of many demon putters from the Russley team missed a makeable putt to lose the 18th & give us the vital half we needed to secure an overdue victory!
As the result records another very tense struggle - all the way. From the start it was always going to be close - but Russley held the edge in the clubhouse - being 3/1 up through the early pairings. But a very determined effort by David Young to come back ( I think ) from 3 down with 4 to play - to win 1 up - 16th was vital to the cause.
Another good win to Jeff Gray - who was playing David Pirie ( a difficult customer at the best of times - he never knows when to give in ) and it was a good return to form for Marcus to win 4/3 & suddenly it was 3 all in the Clubhouse!It now all depended
It now all depended on the No's 1 & 2's who were a good 20 minutes away - Paddy Helmore told me it took us 40 minutes to play the 16th - but it was worth it - The awesome Shirley course was extracting its vengeance - Chris Brockett had just got back to 1 up after being 1 down - & I had fought my way back to 1 down after being 3 down. Chris's opponent played his 2nd out of the rough into a tree to cannon off into the creek.My partner Taiji - couldn't find his ball - & ended up with an 8 - my match all square & Chris 2 up. Chris went on to secured his match on the 17th. Unfortunately I made a mess of 17 - recording a 5 to Taiji's 4 - & I am 1 down again.
All ended well on 18th - great game - good result & course was awesome.
I will keep you informed of what's happening - but with course renovations its likely our next game wont be till 13 December at Clearwater
Well done team & caddy ( aka Special)
A very brief positive report: we won 4.5 to 3.5 - a brilliant result and our first win of the season against a strong opposition Russley.
The match finished was the way it should - decided on the last putt. Fortunately Taiji, one of many demon putters from the Russley team missed a makeable putt to lose the 18th & give us the vital half we needed to secure an overdue victory!
As the result records another very tense struggle - all the way. From the start it was always going to be close - but Russley held the edge in the clubhouse - being 3/1 up through the early pairings. But a very determined effort by David Young to come back ( I think ) from 3 down with 4 to play - to win 1 up - 16th was vital to the cause.
Another good win to Jeff Gray - who was playing David Pirie ( a difficult customer at the best of times - he never knows when to give in ) and it was a good return to form for Marcus to win 4/3 & suddenly it was 3 all in the Clubhouse!It now all depended
It now all depended on the No's 1 & 2's who were a good 20 minutes away - Paddy Helmore told me it took us 40 minutes to play the 16th - but it was worth it - The awesome Shirley course was extracting its vengeance - Chris Brockett had just got back to 1 up after being 1 down - & I had fought my way back to 1 down after being 3 down. Chris's opponent played his 2nd out of the rough into a tree to cannon off into the creek.My partner Taiji - couldn't find his ball - & ended up with an 8 - my match all square & Chris 2 up. Chris went on to secured his match on the 17th. Unfortunately I made a mess of 17 - recording a 5 to Taiji's 4 - & I am 1 down again.
All ended well on 18th - great game - good result & course was awesome.
I will keep you informed of what's happening - but with course renovations its likely our next game wont be till 13 December at Clearwater
Well done team & caddy ( aka Special)
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
What's Happening Week of 26 October.........
This week the Club is involved in a special imitative through the Saturday competition and hopefully under separate cover you will have an e-mail outlining the programme.
Briefly under the direction of Bryan Andrews his sponsors day will be dedicated to raising funds for the Canterbury Golf Development Trust and the Wagstaff Family, who most of us know are suffering through a difficult time at the moment. I would urge all members to fully participate in the events planned to support these very worthy causes.
The cost of the day will be $20 including two's and nearest the pins and there will also be a $10 raffle for some exceptional prizes. In addition Bryan has committed to a morning and afternoon prize table so it is more than value for money. Any extra donations for the Wagstaff family will of course be accepted. The match of the day is for the Arthur Donnelly Salver a Pairs Aggregate Stableford so get your names down if you have not already done so!!Full marks to Bryan for taking the lead in this effort so get in behind him and show some support!!
Please note this is also the last qualifying round for the Shootout and will be played from the Shirley Open blue tees on the Alternate Course. You will recall last month I ventured a view we should give consideration to moving to the Alternate Course so I will welcome your feedback after Saturday's round. One small hint is watch out for the rough as it is extremely heavy in some places.
Sunday sees another busy day at Shirley with the over 50's playing in the morning followed by the President's and a Mixed Event in the afternoon so if you are intending to play you should check for tee times. The Mixed event is the Hill Skinner Cup for husbands and wives being a four ball par competition from multiple tees at 1.00pm. A meal will follow as usual.
We are moving into an exciting time for the Club with the next lot of fairways scheduled for renovation early in November. I will outline the events programme in more detail in the next blog in the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Briefly under the direction of Bryan Andrews his sponsors day will be dedicated to raising funds for the Canterbury Golf Development Trust and the Wagstaff Family, who most of us know are suffering through a difficult time at the moment. I would urge all members to fully participate in the events planned to support these very worthy causes.
The cost of the day will be $20 including two's and nearest the pins and there will also be a $10 raffle for some exceptional prizes. In addition Bryan has committed to a morning and afternoon prize table so it is more than value for money. Any extra donations for the Wagstaff family will of course be accepted. The match of the day is for the Arthur Donnelly Salver a Pairs Aggregate Stableford so get your names down if you have not already done so!!Full marks to Bryan for taking the lead in this effort so get in behind him and show some support!!
Please note this is also the last qualifying round for the Shootout and will be played from the Shirley Open blue tees on the Alternate Course. You will recall last month I ventured a view we should give consideration to moving to the Alternate Course so I will welcome your feedback after Saturday's round. One small hint is watch out for the rough as it is extremely heavy in some places.
Sunday sees another busy day at Shirley with the over 50's playing in the morning followed by the President's and a Mixed Event in the afternoon so if you are intending to play you should check for tee times. The Mixed event is the Hill Skinner Cup for husbands and wives being a four ball par competition from multiple tees at 1.00pm. A meal will follow as usual.
We are moving into an exciting time for the Club with the next lot of fairways scheduled for renovation early in November. I will outline the events programme in more detail in the next blog in the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Sir Bob Charles.........
As you all should know Sir Bob is the Patron of the Christchurch Golf Club, a Life Member and a former Club Champion (1959). In recognition of his contribution to the Club and Golf generally the Board sometime ago resolved to rename the 19th the Sir Bob Charles Longroom.
In response to this gesture Sir Bob has donated a significant amount of memorabilia to the Club for display in the room. In particular now on show are the clubs used by Sir Bob when he won the "British" Open in 1963 and these are on display in a cabinet constructed by club member Karl Kitchingham (Evolution Furniture & a former two time club champion).
In addition the walls of the room have been enlivened by number of appropriate golfing pictures marking Sir Bob's progress through his career. If you have not already done so I suggest you put aside some time to quietly peruse these wonderful additions to the fabric of the Clubhouse. The Club is deeply indebted and appreciative of the generosity shown by Sir Bob. It is the Board's intention to have a formal dinner with him in attendance early in 2010 to mark the official opening and name change.
In response to this gesture Sir Bob has donated a significant amount of memorabilia to the Club for display in the room. In particular now on show are the clubs used by Sir Bob when he won the "British" Open in 1963 and these are on display in a cabinet constructed by club member Karl Kitchingham (Evolution Furniture & a former two time club champion).
In addition the walls of the room have been enlivened by number of appropriate golfing pictures marking Sir Bob's progress through his career. If you have not already done so I suggest you put aside some time to quietly peruse these wonderful additions to the fabric of the Clubhouse. The Club is deeply indebted and appreciative of the generosity shown by Sir Bob. It is the Board's intention to have a formal dinner with him in attendance early in 2010 to mark the official opening and name change.
The Shirley Open..............
The Shirley Open figures large in our calendar as a major event where the Club is able to gain significant public profile particularly since it has formed part of The Charles Tour as a four day pro-am event. This year's Open was enhanced by the commitment of Sir Bob Charles to play in the tournament. In addition we were able to attract a full field of Pro's and Amateurs including former Asian Tour player and New Zealand Open winner Mahal Pearce and the well performed Grant Moorhead.
Following on from last year's successful Tour programme the Women's section was expanded and reshaped to be a 54 hole event. In all 10 Women took part and the eventual winner was Emily Perry from Lochiel with Caroline Bon (Northland) in second and Zoe Brake (Whakatane) in third. The Christchurch Golf Club was represented by Jessica Guenzerodt, who has recently joined the Club, and finished fourth. Jessica had an outstanding 74, a par round, on the final day to shoot up the leaderboard and almost make it into the prize winners. Given her performance over the three days we are confident she will continue to be successful in other events.
In 2008 Christchurch member Sam Ma contended for the overall title and this year we were once again looking for a strong Christchurch presence. The field contained a number of our leading players - Tom Turner, Brad Clark, Peter McDougall, Drew Butcher and Mitchell Vincent as well as some with Christchurch connections such as Fraser Callaway, Ben McMillan and Jordan Bakermans. Unfortunately only Tom Turner and Jordan Bakermans made the cut. In the professional ranks our eyes were focused on Anthony Doyle and Carl Brooking whom we both regard as "home town boys".
I think it fair to say the weather conditions over the four days of the tournament were indeed varied and difficult especially with the strong North-easterly on the Saturday. Perhaps relishing a home course advantage Ant Doyle started strongly to be the first round leader with a 67 and it was a position he did not relinquish at any time during the Open following it with a 68 on Saturday and a 69 on Sunday to have a substantial 8 shot lead going into the final round.
Sir Bob Charles had played consistent golf with rounds of 74 & 75 to make the cut and then to move into closer contention with a 70 (shooting under his age again) on Sunday. One of the highlights of the weekend and the tournament was Sir Bob holing out his second shot on 18 during the Saturday round. Unfortunately he was unable to reproduce that form on the Monday but his participation was an inspiration to the other players, tournament officials and spectators alike especially as he carried his Clubs for five straight days.
Finishing as the leading Amateur after four rounds was Sean Riordan from Takaka at one over par on 289 and tied 5th overall. In a strong performance Jordan Bakermans finished as the 5th amateur and 17th overall with 295 - seven over par. The other top Amateurs were Simon Brownlee (Gulf Harbour), Matthew Perry (Hamilton), & Vaughan McCall (Gore).
However on the Monday most attention was focused on Anthony Doyle and his effort to win the Shirley Open for the first time. Playing the alternate course Ant carded a one over 37 on the front nine which is usually regarded as being the most difficult and as yet no one seemed to be making any significant inroads into his lead. Unfortunately Ant suffered a few speed bumps on the back nine including a double and a lost ball to see his lead dramatically reduce. It was to his credit that he put those matters behind him to par 17 and ultimately birdie 18 to finish a winner by four shots. A result that was warmly welcomed by all the Christchurch members in attendance and well celebrated!
Finishing tied in second both returning the best rounds of the day with 69's were Matthew Holten and Scott Hill at 285 a total of 3 under par. Troy Ropiha finished fourth with Riki Borell, Mahal Pearce, and Andrew Searle in fifth along with Sean Riordan. It was a great wire to wire victory by Ant and given the amount of time and effort he had spent preparing one that was well deserved.
The Shirley Open was a great success and a superb advertisement for the Christchurch Golf Club and the course we now need to ensure we maximise the benefits we have achieved.
Following on from last year's successful Tour programme the Women's section was expanded and reshaped to be a 54 hole event. In all 10 Women took part and the eventual winner was Emily Perry from Lochiel with Caroline Bon (Northland) in second and Zoe Brake (Whakatane) in third. The Christchurch Golf Club was represented by Jessica Guenzerodt, who has recently joined the Club, and finished fourth. Jessica had an outstanding 74, a par round, on the final day to shoot up the leaderboard and almost make it into the prize winners. Given her performance over the three days we are confident she will continue to be successful in other events.
In 2008 Christchurch member Sam Ma contended for the overall title and this year we were once again looking for a strong Christchurch presence. The field contained a number of our leading players - Tom Turner, Brad Clark, Peter McDougall, Drew Butcher and Mitchell Vincent as well as some with Christchurch connections such as Fraser Callaway, Ben McMillan and Jordan Bakermans. Unfortunately only Tom Turner and Jordan Bakermans made the cut. In the professional ranks our eyes were focused on Anthony Doyle and Carl Brooking whom we both regard as "home town boys".
I think it fair to say the weather conditions over the four days of the tournament were indeed varied and difficult especially with the strong North-easterly on the Saturday. Perhaps relishing a home course advantage Ant Doyle started strongly to be the first round leader with a 67 and it was a position he did not relinquish at any time during the Open following it with a 68 on Saturday and a 69 on Sunday to have a substantial 8 shot lead going into the final round.
Sir Bob Charles had played consistent golf with rounds of 74 & 75 to make the cut and then to move into closer contention with a 70 (shooting under his age again) on Sunday. One of the highlights of the weekend and the tournament was Sir Bob holing out his second shot on 18 during the Saturday round. Unfortunately he was unable to reproduce that form on the Monday but his participation was an inspiration to the other players, tournament officials and spectators alike especially as he carried his Clubs for five straight days.
Finishing as the leading Amateur after four rounds was Sean Riordan from Takaka at one over par on 289 and tied 5th overall. In a strong performance Jordan Bakermans finished as the 5th amateur and 17th overall with 295 - seven over par. The other top Amateurs were Simon Brownlee (Gulf Harbour), Matthew Perry (Hamilton), & Vaughan McCall (Gore).
However on the Monday most attention was focused on Anthony Doyle and his effort to win the Shirley Open for the first time. Playing the alternate course Ant carded a one over 37 on the front nine which is usually regarded as being the most difficult and as yet no one seemed to be making any significant inroads into his lead. Unfortunately Ant suffered a few speed bumps on the back nine including a double and a lost ball to see his lead dramatically reduce. It was to his credit that he put those matters behind him to par 17 and ultimately birdie 18 to finish a winner by four shots. A result that was warmly welcomed by all the Christchurch members in attendance and well celebrated!
Finishing tied in second both returning the best rounds of the day with 69's were Matthew Holten and Scott Hill at 285 a total of 3 under par. Troy Ropiha finished fourth with Riki Borell, Mahal Pearce, and Andrew Searle in fifth along with Sean Riordan. It was a great wire to wire victory by Ant and given the amount of time and effort he had spent preparing one that was well deserved.
The Shirley Open was a great success and a superb advertisement for the Christchurch Golf Club and the course we now need to ensure we maximise the benefits we have achieved.
Who We Need To Thank.........
You can not run an event such as the Shirley Open without significant assitence from the Cororate and Business sectors. On behalf of the Club I wish to acknowledge and thank those organisations that supported the Shirley Open and contributed to the success of the tournament.
Our Sponsors United Fisheries - the Kotzikas family Andre, Kyri, Demetri & Emilios, Youthtown - Executive Director Keith Thorpe, Placemakers - Grant Close, Linden Leaves - David & Brigit Blair, Cartlon Bar & Restaurant - James & Ross Murdoch, AMI Insurance - John Balmforth, Callaway Golf - Wayne Barrett, Canterbury Draught - Alan Stroud, Bryan Andrews Auctioneer, The Little Big Tree Company, Coca-Cola (for the players drinks) & Tom Treacy (for the players bananas).
On the administration front thanks to NZ Golf - Graeme Scott, Dave Mangan & Ian Hepenstall and NZ PGA Jim Cleland.
Our Sponsors United Fisheries - the Kotzikas family Andre, Kyri, Demetri & Emilios, Youthtown - Executive Director Keith Thorpe, Placemakers - Grant Close, Linden Leaves - David & Brigit Blair, Cartlon Bar & Restaurant - James & Ross Murdoch, AMI Insurance - John Balmforth, Callaway Golf - Wayne Barrett, Canterbury Draught - Alan Stroud, Bryan Andrews Auctioneer, The Little Big Tree Company, Coca-Cola (for the players drinks) & Tom Treacy (for the players bananas).
On the administration front thanks to NZ Golf - Graeme Scott, Dave Mangan & Ian Hepenstall and NZ PGA Jim Cleland.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The Pro Am
Thursday saw the willing amateurs take to the course in an effort to emulate the deeds of the Professionals and elite amateurs. The match was a Teams event with each team consisting of 5 players - a Pro, an elite amateur and three others - with the best two stableford scores counting on each hole. There was a full field of 27 teams and a large number of volunteers out and about on the course to cater for the needs of the participants.
We expected the scoring to be high and we were not mistaken with the winning team recording a score of 95 which was an average of over 5 points a hole. The winners had to be separated by countback and were the Robinson Peate Finance Team which included in addition to Board Member Richard Peate three former Club Champions Carl Brooking (as the Pro) Simon Robinson and Wayne Tucker with the team rounded out by Hawkes Bay amateur Peter Zwart.
In second place also on 95 points were the Placemakers No.3 Team (Richard North, Arthur Robinson, James Robinson, Brenden Stuart & Riki Kauika). Although not able to be present due to business commitments the Dennis Doherty team of Brian Tyro, David Johnson, James Thompson, Peter Smith (pro) and Matthew Perry (amateur) came in third with 94 points. The United Fisheries No.1 team lead by Emilios Kotzikas with Chris Houston, & Nick Sekeris as well as Alex Tait (Pro) and Jarred Mills (amateur) secured fourth with 93 points.
The spot prizes of nearest to the pin on the par 3's were won by Caroline Bon, David Johnson & our own Rex Price. The "gamble" hole proved a great success mainly due to the sterling efforts of Callum MacAlpine, Alan Scott and Andrew Vincent - needless to say the Club and Junior Golf benefited greatly.
The prize giving and aftermatch function was held at the Carlton Bar & Restaurant and was a hugely successful evening our many thanks and appreciation are extended to James & Ross Murdoch for their generous sponsorship. The day was rounded off with a quick fire auction under the auspices and control of Bryan Andrews who made special efforts to be present and we were grateful for his participation and support of the event.
Given the success of the day I urge everyone to block out the day in 2010 for a repeat that will be even bigger and better!!
We expected the scoring to be high and we were not mistaken with the winning team recording a score of 95 which was an average of over 5 points a hole. The winners had to be separated by countback and were the Robinson Peate Finance Team which included in addition to Board Member Richard Peate three former Club Champions Carl Brooking (as the Pro) Simon Robinson and Wayne Tucker with the team rounded out by Hawkes Bay amateur Peter Zwart.
In second place also on 95 points were the Placemakers No.3 Team (Richard North, Arthur Robinson, James Robinson, Brenden Stuart & Riki Kauika). Although not able to be present due to business commitments the Dennis Doherty team of Brian Tyro, David Johnson, James Thompson, Peter Smith (pro) and Matthew Perry (amateur) came in third with 94 points. The United Fisheries No.1 team lead by Emilios Kotzikas with Chris Houston, & Nick Sekeris as well as Alex Tait (Pro) and Jarred Mills (amateur) secured fourth with 93 points.
The spot prizes of nearest to the pin on the par 3's were won by Caroline Bon, David Johnson & our own Rex Price. The "gamble" hole proved a great success mainly due to the sterling efforts of Callum MacAlpine, Alan Scott and Andrew Vincent - needless to say the Club and Junior Golf benefited greatly.
The prize giving and aftermatch function was held at the Carlton Bar & Restaurant and was a hugely successful evening our many thanks and appreciation are extended to James & Ross Murdoch for their generous sponsorship. The day was rounded off with a quick fire auction under the auspices and control of Bryan Andrews who made special efforts to be present and we were grateful for his participation and support of the event.
Given the success of the day I urge everyone to block out the day in 2010 for a repeat that will be even bigger and better!!
Many Thanks..........
Over the weekend members of the Club were requested to undertake a number of tasks that ensure the smooth running of a tournament such as the Shirley Open be it as a starter, a card checker, a walker or a spotter your efforts were greatly appreciated and many thanks for the time and effort you contributed. Please book out Labour Weekend in your 2010 diaries.
I would also wish to acknowledge all of you who turned up to watch and support you helped create an atmosphere and air of expectation that was key to the ultimate success of the event. If you did not put in an appearance over the weekend all I can say is that it was your loss as there was some great golf played in some difficult & testing conditions.
I also need to recognise the efforts of Mark Lawson and his team in presenting the course in an absolutely fabulous condition. It was very gratifying to hear the positive comments of all the players during the weekend and this has only enhanced the reputation of both the Christchurch Golf Club and the Shirley Open!!
I would also wish to acknowledge all of you who turned up to watch and support you helped create an atmosphere and air of expectation that was key to the ultimate success of the event. If you did not put in an appearance over the weekend all I can say is that it was your loss as there was some great golf played in some difficult & testing conditions.
I also need to recognise the efforts of Mark Lawson and his team in presenting the course in an absolutely fabulous condition. It was very gratifying to hear the positive comments of all the players during the weekend and this has only enhanced the reputation of both the Christchurch Golf Club and the Shirley Open!!
Clubhouse Makeover.................
The following exchange was over heard during the Shirley Open in the 'old' 19th:
Sir Bob Charles walked into the Sir Bob Charles Longroom to sign his card at the end of the day's play, spying Ian Dobson sitting in the Bay Window he remarked:
"Dobbie what are you doing in my room go and sit in your own room".
Dobbie replied:
"Well last week I saw you in my room so I didn't think you would mind."
Quick as a flash David Robinson intervened:
"Gentlemen is there is a problem you are both welcome to come upstairs and use my room!!!"
Sir Bob Charles walked into the Sir Bob Charles Longroom to sign his card at the end of the day's play, spying Ian Dobson sitting in the Bay Window he remarked:
"Dobbie what are you doing in my room go and sit in your own room".
Dobbie replied:
"Well last week I saw you in my room so I didn't think you would mind."
Quick as a flash David Robinson intervened:
"Gentlemen is there is a problem you are both welcome to come upstairs and use my room!!!"
Monday, October 26, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
What's Happening Week of 19 October - "The Shirley Open".........
The final preparations are being placed on the course prior to the Shirley Open and Shirley Links is looking magnificent! Congratulations to Mark Lawson and his team. The New Zealand Golf Representatives have arrived in town and they are enthusiastic as to the condition of the course especially the development of the creek area and the mounding that has taken place!! It seems as though this year we will be using the back tee on our normal 13 and the tee will be moved back to the creek as far as possible on our normal 5. The greens are now playing well and will only improve further as the week progresses.
The pro-am on Thursday has attracted a full field so it will be a busy day notwithstanding the shotgun start. For those playing watch out for me as I intend to be out on the course in the drinks cart and refreshments will be available at the Pagoda as well. We will also be looking to run "double your money" on our normal third hole so take some cash. At the prize giving, to be held at the Carlton Hotel, we will be running a short Auction to raise further monies for the Club so bring your cheque books as Bryan Andrews will be in form.
We have attracted a full field of professionals and amateurs but clearly the star attraction is the participation of our Patron Sir Bob Charles. We are both incredibly honoured and lucky to have such a New Zealand and World golfing icon playing in the event and this adds a special cachet to this round of The Charles Tour. It would be an absolute waste if you did not make time to come down and see him play. I suspect Sir Bob will be there or there abouts on the Monday round.
On the first two days there will be a morning tee off at 7.30am and an afternoon tee off at 11.45am, because we are using the alternate course two tees will be in play our normal 16 (Hole 1) and our normal 1 (Hole 10). After the cut there will be a two tee single start of 9.00am from both holes on the Sunday and Monday so you will need to be out for mid morning to catch the action.
Even with the assistance of New Zealand Golf and The New Zealand PGA it is big task to run a four day tournament but in my mind it provides the best possible avenue to promote both the Christchurch Golf Club and Shirley Links. To continue to be successful we must strive to excel and continually market to the widest possible audience. The Shirley Open is truly the opportunity to showcase the Club.
On behalf of the Club I extend thanks to those members who have offered assistance and to all members for their patience and forbearance during the running of the Open. If you wish to have a round on Saturday speak with the pro shop or the office to ascertain where reciprocal arrangements have been made.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
The pro-am on Thursday has attracted a full field so it will be a busy day notwithstanding the shotgun start. For those playing watch out for me as I intend to be out on the course in the drinks cart and refreshments will be available at the Pagoda as well. We will also be looking to run "double your money" on our normal third hole so take some cash. At the prize giving, to be held at the Carlton Hotel, we will be running a short Auction to raise further monies for the Club so bring your cheque books as Bryan Andrews will be in form.
We have attracted a full field of professionals and amateurs but clearly the star attraction is the participation of our Patron Sir Bob Charles. We are both incredibly honoured and lucky to have such a New Zealand and World golfing icon playing in the event and this adds a special cachet to this round of The Charles Tour. It would be an absolute waste if you did not make time to come down and see him play. I suspect Sir Bob will be there or there abouts on the Monday round.
On the first two days there will be a morning tee off at 7.30am and an afternoon tee off at 11.45am, because we are using the alternate course two tees will be in play our normal 16 (Hole 1) and our normal 1 (Hole 10). After the cut there will be a two tee single start of 9.00am from both holes on the Sunday and Monday so you will need to be out for mid morning to catch the action.
Even with the assistance of New Zealand Golf and The New Zealand PGA it is big task to run a four day tournament but in my mind it provides the best possible avenue to promote both the Christchurch Golf Club and Shirley Links. To continue to be successful we must strive to excel and continually market to the widest possible audience. The Shirley Open is truly the opportunity to showcase the Club.
On behalf of the Club I extend thanks to those members who have offered assistance and to all members for their patience and forbearance during the running of the Open. If you wish to have a round on Saturday speak with the pro shop or the office to ascertain where reciprocal arrangements have been made.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Royal Wellington Golf Club (RWGC) & 100 Years???
There maybe some doubt as to when the first match against Royal Wellington was played but we do know officially there was one in 1909 and the RWGC record this as the second match. Our historian David Page has been unable to find reference to the 1908 match but nor has he any evidence that it did not take place. To cover all bases it was decided that there would be two centennial celebrations - 08 in Christchurch and 09 in Wellington.
This year's Wellington match also took on further significance when it was discovered that it would be the 100th playing for the Tuson Cup which had subsequently been donated as the Trophy. In the early years it was played for on a home and away basis but during the "War" years it was not contested hence reaching 100 matches in 2009. It was always envisaged that the 'match' would involve the best Christchurch GC golfers against the best RWGC golfers in an eight man team and it has always been keenly contested both in the fourball and the singles.
With the addition of the Veterans Salver a further team of eight was added by each Club making a touring party of 16. Given the importance of the Centennial it was decided invitations should be extended to previous participants to play in the Salver match. RWGC mustered 22 for 08 and we took a similar number back in 09. Discussions are now underway to consider extending the Salver numbers from 8 to 16 on a more permanent basis.
As always the Dinner was an elaborate affair with considerable tradition, ceremony and appropriate speeches and this year was to be no different. In recognition of the milestone we gifted to RWGC an engraved Port Decanter, glasses & two bottles of "Club" Port needless to say they were received with much pleasure and without any ado put to immediate use!!
The whole weekend was a pleasure to partake and reflected well on the strong relationship between the two Clubs. It was pleasing to note that both teams were well represented by youth ensuring that the next generation of players were blooded into the rivalry. To our host RWGC lead by their Club Captain Marty Scott and his team we extend our thanks for a truly memorable occasion and the warm hospitality extended it was a seamless operation and we will do our best to ensure we reciprocate next year.
Probably one of the highlights of the weekend was to once again renew our friendship with Shane Scott our previous 'pro' at Shirley. Shane now fills the role of Director of Golf and it was plain to see that he was loving his new role and his efforts are being both recognised and appreciated by the RWGC and its members. Shane's involvement further ensured a great time was had by all as his passion and enthusiasm shone through.
Finally to avoid any rumours I deny my eyes closed, beyond the reasonable, in the Clubhouse on Sunday morning prior to lunch I was merely absorbing the ambiance of the occasion comfortably ensconced in a welcoming couch drinking in the atmosphere of the wood panelling and the ever so slight hint of alcoholic and coffee vapours tingeing the air while appreciating the panoramic view from the windows.
This year's Wellington match also took on further significance when it was discovered that it would be the 100th playing for the Tuson Cup which had subsequently been donated as the Trophy. In the early years it was played for on a home and away basis but during the "War" years it was not contested hence reaching 100 matches in 2009. It was always envisaged that the 'match' would involve the best Christchurch GC golfers against the best RWGC golfers in an eight man team and it has always been keenly contested both in the fourball and the singles.
With the addition of the Veterans Salver a further team of eight was added by each Club making a touring party of 16. Given the importance of the Centennial it was decided invitations should be extended to previous participants to play in the Salver match. RWGC mustered 22 for 08 and we took a similar number back in 09. Discussions are now underway to consider extending the Salver numbers from 8 to 16 on a more permanent basis.
As always the Dinner was an elaborate affair with considerable tradition, ceremony and appropriate speeches and this year was to be no different. In recognition of the milestone we gifted to RWGC an engraved Port Decanter, glasses & two bottles of "Club" Port needless to say they were received with much pleasure and without any ado put to immediate use!!
The whole weekend was a pleasure to partake and reflected well on the strong relationship between the two Clubs. It was pleasing to note that both teams were well represented by youth ensuring that the next generation of players were blooded into the rivalry. To our host RWGC lead by their Club Captain Marty Scott and his team we extend our thanks for a truly memorable occasion and the warm hospitality extended it was a seamless operation and we will do our best to ensure we reciprocate next year.
Probably one of the highlights of the weekend was to once again renew our friendship with Shane Scott our previous 'pro' at Shirley. Shane now fills the role of Director of Golf and it was plain to see that he was loving his new role and his efforts are being both recognised and appreciated by the RWGC and its members. Shane's involvement further ensured a great time was had by all as his passion and enthusiasm shone through.
Finally to avoid any rumours I deny my eyes closed, beyond the reasonable, in the Clubhouse on Sunday morning prior to lunch I was merely absorbing the ambiance of the occasion comfortably ensconced in a welcoming couch drinking in the atmosphere of the wood panelling and the ever so slight hint of alcoholic and coffee vapours tingeing the air while appreciating the panoramic view from the windows.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Tuson Cup & Veterans Salver..............
Well I think it is official I am New Zealand's drought breaker as yet another inter club fixture was affected by the weather albeit not to the same effect as the Dunedin match.
The Christchurch Team arrived in Wellington late on Friday morning to be greeted by Royal Wellington members and a grey overcast sky holding more than the hint of moisture (it was raining!!). Heading straight to the course our vista from the Clubhouse disclosed significant surface water on the fairways with intermittent showers persisting. A light luncheon allowed time for those to dissipate and the practice round to proceed unhindered although more than slightly wet under foot.
For those of you who have not played Royal Wellington it is the absolute epitome of a parklands course with substantial plantings of specimen trees that frame the fairways and boarder the rough to provide a delightful environment in which to play the game. The greens conceal significant undulations and slopes which make determining the line and pace a challenging task.
Saturday saw the arrival of the remainder of our team and the hope that play would not be too much disrupted by the conditions. Traditionally the fourball competition takes place on day one and we hit off full of anticipation unfortunately our hopes were not to be realised with our Tuson Cup team being comprehensively outplayed and ending the day 4 games down. The Veteran Salver did not fare much better trailing 7.5 to 3.5. Wins were recorded by the pairings of Brian Ronan & Brian Andrews, Ben Frampton & Peter Guthery, and Mike Gibbon assisted by David Drage of RWGC. The two Davids - Blair and Robinson came from behind to snatch a well deserved half. Unfortunate to lose was the team of Gowans/Buist where Grahame shot a gross 74 & Roger shot a nett 68 to still be on the wrong side of the ledger 2/1!! The rains were held at bay until late afternoon and the final grouping were drenched as they struggled back to finish their rounds.
If we were to retain the silverware it was going to be necessary to have a big effort on Sunday. Overnight the course was once more saturated with rain but this lessoned to infrequent showers by tee off time.The Tuson boys came out firing with Tom Turner winning at one (against Fraser Callaway a former Christchurch member), Peter MacDougall securing a half at two and Nic Fry securing a one up win at three. In the battle of the Captains Charles Whitwham was successful over Felix Zamudio but unfortunately through the rest of the order the exceptionally young and talented RWGC team was too strong ending 4.5 /3.5 in front for an overall 8.5 to 3.5 victory. Accordingly the Tuson Cup returned to Wellington.
In the Veterans Salver following a fiery speech from Captain Peter Guthery at the Saturday Dinner we still retained visions of overhauling the deficit but unfortunately those were to also quickly perish. Wins were recorded by Geoff Beadel, Roger Gowans, David Hicks, Brian Ronan (who defeated Tony Vincent a brother of Andrew & uncle to Mitchell 7/6), and David Drage. Halves were posted by Cran Bull, John MacVicar, & Peter Law so all in all the singles to RWGC 15.5 to 6.5 with the Salver changing hands 23 to 10.
We await 2010 with anticipation to welcome RWGC to Shirley and reverse the results of 2009!!
The Christchurch Team arrived in Wellington late on Friday morning to be greeted by Royal Wellington members and a grey overcast sky holding more than the hint of moisture (it was raining!!). Heading straight to the course our vista from the Clubhouse disclosed significant surface water on the fairways with intermittent showers persisting. A light luncheon allowed time for those to dissipate and the practice round to proceed unhindered although more than slightly wet under foot.
For those of you who have not played Royal Wellington it is the absolute epitome of a parklands course with substantial plantings of specimen trees that frame the fairways and boarder the rough to provide a delightful environment in which to play the game. The greens conceal significant undulations and slopes which make determining the line and pace a challenging task.
Saturday saw the arrival of the remainder of our team and the hope that play would not be too much disrupted by the conditions. Traditionally the fourball competition takes place on day one and we hit off full of anticipation unfortunately our hopes were not to be realised with our Tuson Cup team being comprehensively outplayed and ending the day 4 games down. The Veteran Salver did not fare much better trailing 7.5 to 3.5. Wins were recorded by the pairings of Brian Ronan & Brian Andrews, Ben Frampton & Peter Guthery, and Mike Gibbon assisted by David Drage of RWGC. The two Davids - Blair and Robinson came from behind to snatch a well deserved half. Unfortunate to lose was the team of Gowans/Buist where Grahame shot a gross 74 & Roger shot a nett 68 to still be on the wrong side of the ledger 2/1!! The rains were held at bay until late afternoon and the final grouping were drenched as they struggled back to finish their rounds.
If we were to retain the silverware it was going to be necessary to have a big effort on Sunday. Overnight the course was once more saturated with rain but this lessoned to infrequent showers by tee off time.The Tuson boys came out firing with Tom Turner winning at one (against Fraser Callaway a former Christchurch member), Peter MacDougall securing a half at two and Nic Fry securing a one up win at three. In the battle of the Captains Charles Whitwham was successful over Felix Zamudio but unfortunately through the rest of the order the exceptionally young and talented RWGC team was too strong ending 4.5 /3.5 in front for an overall 8.5 to 3.5 victory. Accordingly the Tuson Cup returned to Wellington.
In the Veterans Salver following a fiery speech from Captain Peter Guthery at the Saturday Dinner we still retained visions of overhauling the deficit but unfortunately those were to also quickly perish. Wins were recorded by Geoff Beadel, Roger Gowans, David Hicks, Brian Ronan (who defeated Tony Vincent a brother of Andrew & uncle to Mitchell 7/6), and David Drage. Halves were posted by Cran Bull, John MacVicar, & Peter Law so all in all the singles to RWGC 15.5 to 6.5 with the Salver changing hands 23 to 10.
We await 2010 with anticipation to welcome RWGC to Shirley and reverse the results of 2009!!
Sunday, October 18, 2009
On Tour..................
Generally what happens on tour stays on tour and the trip to Wellington will be no different apart from these few instances!!!
Firstly by means fair or foul two Christchurch Golf Club members managed to believe they had avoided the excess Air New Zealand baggage charges and had happily moved through security to the departure lounge meanwhile Peter Guthrey (the travel agent) was standing by the self check in counter trying ascertain what had happened to his stickers. With time running out and and pressure being applied by the counter staff an SOS was sent through with the requirement that Steve Ellis and Peter Law return to the check in counter for further examination of their luggage tickets.
For some reason the self check in kiosk seemed to take a dislike to Brian Ronan, after some time delay and intervention of a service assistant it was with great relief that he was one of the last passengers onto the plane! Having completed the self check in system, self delivered my golf clubs to the over sized baggage, self placed everything in trays for security screening and then self scanned my boarding pass I fully expected to be asked to self fly the plane but it appears that even Air New Zealand draws the line somewhere!!
Secondly questions should be asked as to the sleeping arrangements of one Ben Frampton after the dinner on the Saturday such inquiries should be addressed to either Steve Ellis or John Dickson. Particular emphasis should be placed on phone calls, rectification steps taken, the exact sleeping position that Steve was required to occupy, the amount of sleep attained and the reasons therefore, and the eventual resolution and time thereof.
On a golfing note, if you have a hour or two to spare, ask either Peter Guthery or Mr. JD to explain how they defeated the Andrews and Ronan combination on the Friday in the practice round! Rest assured the touring party heard about it for the whole weekend and can probably replay the round shot by shot!!
General accommodation was at Totara Lodge, Trentham accordingly there was no scope for ascertaining the standard of local coffee because there simply wasn't any. Complete disaster was avoided by the fact there was a fully fledged coffee machine at Royal Wellington which more than sufficed to hold the addiction withdrawal at bay!
Apart from this my lips are sealed!!! (Needless to say there were frequent requirements for matters to be entered in the Blog and mostly they have been ignored - on anything else I deny all knowledge).
Firstly by means fair or foul two Christchurch Golf Club members managed to believe they had avoided the excess Air New Zealand baggage charges and had happily moved through security to the departure lounge meanwhile Peter Guthrey (the travel agent) was standing by the self check in counter trying ascertain what had happened to his stickers. With time running out and and pressure being applied by the counter staff an SOS was sent through with the requirement that Steve Ellis and Peter Law return to the check in counter for further examination of their luggage tickets.
For some reason the self check in kiosk seemed to take a dislike to Brian Ronan, after some time delay and intervention of a service assistant it was with great relief that he was one of the last passengers onto the plane! Having completed the self check in system, self delivered my golf clubs to the over sized baggage, self placed everything in trays for security screening and then self scanned my boarding pass I fully expected to be asked to self fly the plane but it appears that even Air New Zealand draws the line somewhere!!
Secondly questions should be asked as to the sleeping arrangements of one Ben Frampton after the dinner on the Saturday such inquiries should be addressed to either Steve Ellis or John Dickson. Particular emphasis should be placed on phone calls, rectification steps taken, the exact sleeping position that Steve was required to occupy, the amount of sleep attained and the reasons therefore, and the eventual resolution and time thereof.
On a golfing note, if you have a hour or two to spare, ask either Peter Guthery or Mr. JD to explain how they defeated the Andrews and Ronan combination on the Friday in the practice round! Rest assured the touring party heard about it for the whole weekend and can probably replay the round shot by shot!!
General accommodation was at Totara Lodge, Trentham accordingly there was no scope for ascertaining the standard of local coffee because there simply wasn't any. Complete disaster was avoided by the fact there was a fully fledged coffee machine at Royal Wellington which more than sufficed to hold the addiction withdrawal at bay!
Apart from this my lips are sealed!!! (Needless to say there were frequent requirements for matters to be entered in the Blog and mostly they have been ignored - on anything else I deny all knowledge).
The Week That Was...............
I am sure as move through October the weather must improve sometime soon!! Saturday was designated Members Invitation Day with the match competition being Pairs Aggregate Stableford. Once again the individual and combined scoring was very impressive.
Leading the field with a colossal 81 points were the brothers Gillespie - Andrew and Bryan (who was visiting from Waitikiri) with 42 & 39 respectively. In second were the pairing of Steve Bayard & Terrance Caldwell (44 points) on 78, Chris Abbott & Michael Hadley in third on 77 from Grant Mitchell & Alan Scott and Roy Newburn & Rex Price both on 76 by countback in fourth and fifth. Grant Mitchell shot his best round for some time recording 45 points and a gross 78!!
The two's pool climbed to $270 and there were 14 winners each receiving $19.30 with Andrew Gillespie and Graham Purkis striking the jackpot of $55 being $27.50 each. Nett eagles drew hole 3 and was not struck. Nearest the pins on 3 & 11 were Andrew Gillespie on 3 and Simon Yorke on 11 - $35 each. The Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher for closest to the pin on 18 for two was won by Paddy Helmore. In what topped off an absolutely fantastic day for Andrew Gillespie he won the Linden Leaves sponsored prize for closest to the pin on 17 (for a change) for two.
For the record Andrew won the Match of the Day, the two's jackpot (shared), a closest to the pin and the Linden Leaves prize - although I was not present I trust someone convinced him it was in order to shout!!
Our over 50's team made their 09 debut on Sunday with solid rather than spectacular rounds being registered by Andrew Gillespie who shot 68 , Chris Richmond and Dennis Maguire. Good luck to the team and their manager Garry Forward for the rest of the season!
Leading the field with a colossal 81 points were the brothers Gillespie - Andrew and Bryan (who was visiting from Waitikiri) with 42 & 39 respectively. In second were the pairing of Steve Bayard & Terrance Caldwell (44 points) on 78, Chris Abbott & Michael Hadley in third on 77 from Grant Mitchell & Alan Scott and Roy Newburn & Rex Price both on 76 by countback in fourth and fifth. Grant Mitchell shot his best round for some time recording 45 points and a gross 78!!
The two's pool climbed to $270 and there were 14 winners each receiving $19.30 with Andrew Gillespie and Graham Purkis striking the jackpot of $55 being $27.50 each. Nett eagles drew hole 3 and was not struck. Nearest the pins on 3 & 11 were Andrew Gillespie on 3 and Simon Yorke on 11 - $35 each. The Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher for closest to the pin on 18 for two was won by Paddy Helmore. In what topped off an absolutely fantastic day for Andrew Gillespie he won the Linden Leaves sponsored prize for closest to the pin on 17 (for a change) for two.
For the record Andrew won the Match of the Day, the two's jackpot (shared), a closest to the pin and the Linden Leaves prize - although I was not present I trust someone convinced him it was in order to shout!!
Our over 50's team made their 09 debut on Sunday with solid rather than spectacular rounds being registered by Andrew Gillespie who shot 68 , Chris Richmond and Dennis Maguire. Good luck to the team and their manager Garry Forward for the rest of the season!
From Another Traveller.............
It may be a surprise to many members but actually I have a few friends outside of the Christchurch Golf Club one of whom recently visited New York and had the pleasure of playing Bethpage Black his report follows:
Today we played at Bethpage black golf course. Wow what a golf course and a public golf course to boot. It was in fantastic condition with the greens, bunkers and fairways in immaculate condition. Not bad for a place that has in excess of 60,000 rounds a year (and is closed for two months during winter). My lasting impression was of huge numbers of Oak Trees and a massive expanse of bunkers on every hole. The rough was particularly difficult with gnarly matted grass.
Anyway today was spent going to, playing and coming back from golf. It took 3 change of trains in the subway to get to Penn station to catch the train to Long Island and then a walk and a friendly person on the footpath gave us a lift to the golf course (only a mile to the gate then 2 miles to the Clubhouse). We then had a wait of a few hours to play and the office ladies tried everything they could to get us on earlier but with no luck. You are required to report an hour before tee off otherwise you are scratched from the draw (you fall off the computer automatically and your time is reallocated). On payment of the green fees a bracelet is attached to your wrist which is then cut off on the first tee.
Like Shirley you are required to cross the road for holes 2 - 14 but by way of a tunnel. To give you an idea of difficulty the Women's Slope index is 152. We played with 2 accountants, (everyone is placed in fours to maximise the use of the course) , - very nice guys and one of them drove us all the way back to our apartment - about 40 or 50 miles. It was really good today to see lots of trees and green grass after the 10 days of steel concrete and skyscrapers!
Today we played at Bethpage black golf course. Wow what a golf course and a public golf course to boot. It was in fantastic condition with the greens, bunkers and fairways in immaculate condition. Not bad for a place that has in excess of 60,000 rounds a year (and is closed for two months during winter). My lasting impression was of huge numbers of Oak Trees and a massive expanse of bunkers on every hole. The rough was particularly difficult with gnarly matted grass.
Anyway today was spent going to, playing and coming back from golf. It took 3 change of trains in the subway to get to Penn station to catch the train to Long Island and then a walk and a friendly person on the footpath gave us a lift to the golf course (only a mile to the gate then 2 miles to the Clubhouse). We then had a wait of a few hours to play and the office ladies tried everything they could to get us on earlier but with no luck. You are required to report an hour before tee off otherwise you are scratched from the draw (you fall off the computer automatically and your time is reallocated). On payment of the green fees a bracelet is attached to your wrist which is then cut off on the first tee.
Like Shirley you are required to cross the road for holes 2 - 14 but by way of a tunnel. To give you an idea of difficulty the Women's Slope index is 152. We played with 2 accountants, (everyone is placed in fours to maximise the use of the course) , - very nice guys and one of them drove us all the way back to our apartment - about 40 or 50 miles. It was really good today to see lots of trees and green grass after the 10 days of steel concrete and skyscrapers!
President's Grade Report..............
From President's manager Dennis Doherty a report on Sundays match:
On paper a strong Christchurch fronted to play Waitikiri on another cold & squally morning.
Waitikiri also produced a very strong team as it proved with several of their players shooting personal bests. Most of the matches went to the 17th - a series of tight matches all played in good competitive spirit followed by convivial post match analysis of recoveries ( mostly by Waitikiri) & a very pleasant lunch. End result was a 6.5 to 1.5 loss - it did seem a lot closer than that!!!
Very good fight back by Tony McKeogh from being 2 down and unlucky not to win his match on the 18th - just missing a medium to long putt on recently cored greens & his opponent sinking a testing putt to obtain a half. Yours truly started well, lost his way in the middle & somehow managed to scrape home with a win with more than a little help from his opponent ( sometimes you strike lucky).
Our next match is a home game - 1pm tee off on 1 November against Russley - and this will be our last round at Shirley prior to the greens and fairways renovations.
On paper a strong Christchurch fronted to play Waitikiri on another cold & squally morning.
Waitikiri also produced a very strong team as it proved with several of their players shooting personal bests. Most of the matches went to the 17th - a series of tight matches all played in good competitive spirit followed by convivial post match analysis of recoveries ( mostly by Waitikiri) & a very pleasant lunch. End result was a 6.5 to 1.5 loss - it did seem a lot closer than that!!!
Very good fight back by Tony McKeogh from being 2 down and unlucky not to win his match on the 18th - just missing a medium to long putt on recently cored greens & his opponent sinking a testing putt to obtain a half. Yours truly started well, lost his way in the middle & somehow managed to scrape home with a win with more than a little help from his opponent ( sometimes you strike lucky).
Our next match is a home game - 1pm tee off on 1 November against Russley - and this will be our last round at Shirley prior to the greens and fairways renovations.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
What's Happening Week of 12 October..........
This is a big week for the Club although I suspect by the time you read this it may be more than half over!!
The Women's Masters event takes centre stage for the first part of the week with a field of over 60, including a large number of out of town visitors, participating in rounds on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday - all good publicity and PR for the Club. We anticipate the field will continue to grow over the next few years to become a highlight on the Calendar.
Saturday is designated as Members Invitation Day where members can bring a guest and pay no green fees. As indicated previously this is a great opportunity for the Club to attract new members so I urge you to participate fully in this event. Membership application forms will be available on the day. Apologies in advance for my absence but I will be in Wellington.
A strong contingent of Christchurch members (approx 30) are travelling to the Royal Wellington Golf Club to participate in the second leg of the Tuson Cup celebrations. This year will be the 100th contesting of the Cup (allowing for the War years and it being played for twice a year earlier on) with there still some dispute as to whether this is the 100 or 101 year since the match between the two Clubs commenced. Whatever the position it will be a great weekend for those lucky enough to be attending.
Currently we hold both Trophies and we are sending an exceptionally strong senior team comprised of Bruce Taylor, Paul Dunn, Nic Fry, Tom Turner, Peter MacDougall, Charles Whitwham, Andrew Sloane and Peter Sim. A number of Club Stalwarts are in the second team including past Club Captains Mike Gibbon, David Page, David Hicks and David Robinson but I suspectl Geoff Beadel will lead the team in terms of seniority. A full report will follow in due course.
The Women's Masters event takes centre stage for the first part of the week with a field of over 60, including a large number of out of town visitors, participating in rounds on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday - all good publicity and PR for the Club. We anticipate the field will continue to grow over the next few years to become a highlight on the Calendar.
Saturday is designated as Members Invitation Day where members can bring a guest and pay no green fees. As indicated previously this is a great opportunity for the Club to attract new members so I urge you to participate fully in this event. Membership application forms will be available on the day. Apologies in advance for my absence but I will be in Wellington.
A strong contingent of Christchurch members (approx 30) are travelling to the Royal Wellington Golf Club to participate in the second leg of the Tuson Cup celebrations. This year will be the 100th contesting of the Cup (allowing for the War years and it being played for twice a year earlier on) with there still some dispute as to whether this is the 100 or 101 year since the match between the two Clubs commenced. Whatever the position it will be a great weekend for those lucky enough to be attending.
Currently we hold both Trophies and we are sending an exceptionally strong senior team comprised of Bruce Taylor, Paul Dunn, Nic Fry, Tom Turner, Peter MacDougall, Charles Whitwham, Andrew Sloane and Peter Sim. A number of Club Stalwarts are in the second team including past Club Captains Mike Gibbon, David Page, David Hicks and David Robinson but I suspectl Geoff Beadel will lead the team in terms of seniority. A full report will follow in due course.
Shirley Open...................
Not too long now until we are into the Shirley Open and planning is proceeding apace.
Firstly the response to the Pro am has been outstanding with the field now almost full. If for any reason you have not got your entry form in please see Struan at the office as soon as possible so we are in a position to finalise the numbers.
The field of competitors has now almost been finalised and we have an exceptionally strong contingent of Amateurs as well as a good cross section of the New Zealand Resident Professionals including of course our own Anthony Doyle. Early next week the New Zealand Golf representatives will arrive to oversee the course set up so do not be surprised to see them in and around the Club environs.
The sheet for volunteers is up in the Clubhouse so please put up your names as it does save extra work in ringing around. The men's committee is meeting on Thursday to allocate tasks and look at how we can maximise the tournament to the Club's benefit. Watch this space!!!
Firstly the response to the Pro am has been outstanding with the field now almost full. If for any reason you have not got your entry form in please see Struan at the office as soon as possible so we are in a position to finalise the numbers.
The field of competitors has now almost been finalised and we have an exceptionally strong contingent of Amateurs as well as a good cross section of the New Zealand Resident Professionals including of course our own Anthony Doyle. Early next week the New Zealand Golf representatives will arrive to oversee the course set up so do not be surprised to see them in and around the Club environs.
The sheet for volunteers is up in the Clubhouse so please put up your names as it does save extra work in ringing around. The men's committee is meeting on Thursday to allocate tasks and look at how we can maximise the tournament to the Club's benefit. Watch this space!!!
Raspberry & Brandy Sauce.................
The inclement weather of Friday put paid to the notion of 18 holes of golf prior to the Ladies Who Golf Luncheon however the the meal proceeded unaffected.
The menu provided for a Caesar Salad appetiser, followed by Tandoori Buttered Salmon entree, with Mini Beef Wellington's as a main and vanilla ice cream with raspberry and brandy sauce for dessert. Back by popular demand were Frangelio Affogato's to finish.
The Brandy & Raspberry Sauce is stunning as a simple finishing touch by way of dessert served with ice cream and wafer biscuits:
500gms of Raspberries either fresh or defrosted but retain any juice if using frozen (or any other berry should you wish)
1/3 cup of castor sugar
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
2 tablespoons of Brandy (at least a little more if you wish)
Place all the ingredients in a food processor and mix until combined into a puree. Strain the mixture through a sieve to remove pips and then chill remaining sauce in fridge and serve over ice cream.
The menu provided for a Caesar Salad appetiser, followed by Tandoori Buttered Salmon entree, with Mini Beef Wellington's as a main and vanilla ice cream with raspberry and brandy sauce for dessert. Back by popular demand were Frangelio Affogato's to finish.
The Brandy & Raspberry Sauce is stunning as a simple finishing touch by way of dessert served with ice cream and wafer biscuits:
500gms of Raspberries either fresh or defrosted but retain any juice if using frozen (or any other berry should you wish)
1/3 cup of castor sugar
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
2 tablespoons of Brandy (at least a little more if you wish)
Place all the ingredients in a food processor and mix until combined into a puree. Strain the mixture through a sieve to remove pips and then chill remaining sauce in fridge and serve over ice cream.
Southern Travels............
Club members Paddy & Jane Helmore recently completed a golfing sojourn to the deep south and their report on the courses played is attached:
Sunday – Hawea Golf Club: an interesting mix of 9 holes with some par 4’s ranging from a short 250m up to 400m and a long 499m par 5 into the southerly. The greens often had some big gradients. Overall it was a pleasant enough walk and not too serious.
Monday – Alexandra Golf Club: a beautiful day in Central for the 18 holes. A good variety of holes with some tightness and length on quite a few of the holes. Looking forward to returning there for the NZ Left-handed champs in 2011.
Tuesday – Tokanui Golf Club: located overlooking the ocean just past Fortrose at the Invercargill end of the Catlins this course claims to be the southernmost 9 hole course in the world (note: the Stewart Island course is only 6 holes). Lots of hills and humps and hollows combined with magnificent views make this an interesting experience even with the benign conditions we experienced (hate to play there in much of a wind though!!!). A lot of fun with many blind shots requiring guesswork as to distance. Good course for the CV.
Wednesday – Invercargill Golf Club at Otatara: lovely course and well deserving of its reputation. Good concentration required to avoid a big score. Would certainly play here again.
Thursday morning – Greenacres Golf Club: a well groomed course on the northern side of Invercargill with a good variety of holes. Unfortunately the boy in the pro-shop forgot to tell us there was a tournament on in the PM so after 9 holes we headed off to the beach.
Thursday afternoon – Southland Golf Course at Oreti Sands: now here is a course with a real difference. Wonderfully tight start through the sand hills on the relatively new revised layout but even when it does open out it remains quite a challenge to avoid the marram grass. Plenty of care needed and the club provide a certificate to say you survived the round. Certainly and most definitely a course to be played again.
Friday – Winton Golf Club: a wonderfully immaculately groomed 18 hole course, with good distance and variety of shape. They sure know how to grow great grass on both the fairways and the rough. Probably the best greens of the trip with good speed and a smooth roll.
Saturday – Tokarahi Golf Club: located 11km from Duntroon just off the Dansey’s Pass road this 9 hole course was the big surprise of the trip. A hilly course and very well kept with better than average greens it was quite a challenge for stance and distance judgement even though some of the holes were not too long. We joined about 20 players for their club day and had a great time with the hospitality afterwards reminiscent of the old days. Visitors most welcome and we hope to return there again.
Sunday – Timaru Golf Club at Levels: a sister club of ours and probably familiar to many. The course is interesting enough but fairways and the rough were disappointing with too many “Shirley” patches (not sure what these are given how well 5 & 6 have come on in the spring - Ed). Even though the greens had only been cored earlier in the week they were surprisingly good. It is hoped that they will be able to improve these deficiencies as the layout itself is interesting enough.
Overall a good trip and really interesting to visit and play such a variety of courses.
Sunday – Hawea Golf Club: an interesting mix of 9 holes with some par 4’s ranging from a short 250m up to 400m and a long 499m par 5 into the southerly. The greens often had some big gradients. Overall it was a pleasant enough walk and not too serious.
Monday – Alexandra Golf Club: a beautiful day in Central for the 18 holes. A good variety of holes with some tightness and length on quite a few of the holes. Looking forward to returning there for the NZ Left-handed champs in 2011.
Tuesday – Tokanui Golf Club: located overlooking the ocean just past Fortrose at the Invercargill end of the Catlins this course claims to be the southernmost 9 hole course in the world (note: the Stewart Island course is only 6 holes). Lots of hills and humps and hollows combined with magnificent views make this an interesting experience even with the benign conditions we experienced (hate to play there in much of a wind though!!!). A lot of fun with many blind shots requiring guesswork as to distance. Good course for the CV.
Wednesday – Invercargill Golf Club at Otatara: lovely course and well deserving of its reputation. Good concentration required to avoid a big score. Would certainly play here again.
Thursday morning – Greenacres Golf Club: a well groomed course on the northern side of Invercargill with a good variety of holes. Unfortunately the boy in the pro-shop forgot to tell us there was a tournament on in the PM so after 9 holes we headed off to the beach.
Thursday afternoon – Southland Golf Course at Oreti Sands: now here is a course with a real difference. Wonderfully tight start through the sand hills on the relatively new revised layout but even when it does open out it remains quite a challenge to avoid the marram grass. Plenty of care needed and the club provide a certificate to say you survived the round. Certainly and most definitely a course to be played again.
Friday – Winton Golf Club: a wonderfully immaculately groomed 18 hole course, with good distance and variety of shape. They sure know how to grow great grass on both the fairways and the rough. Probably the best greens of the trip with good speed and a smooth roll.
Saturday – Tokarahi Golf Club: located 11km from Duntroon just off the Dansey’s Pass road this 9 hole course was the big surprise of the trip. A hilly course and very well kept with better than average greens it was quite a challenge for stance and distance judgement even though some of the holes were not too long. We joined about 20 players for their club day and had a great time with the hospitality afterwards reminiscent of the old days. Visitors most welcome and we hope to return there again.
Sunday – Timaru Golf Club at Levels: a sister club of ours and probably familiar to many. The course is interesting enough but fairways and the rough were disappointing with too many “Shirley” patches (not sure what these are given how well 5 & 6 have come on in the spring - Ed). Even though the greens had only been cored earlier in the week they were surprisingly good. It is hoped that they will be able to improve these deficiencies as the layout itself is interesting enough.
Overall a good trip and really interesting to visit and play such a variety of courses.
Orbell Cup..............
After the Southerlies of Saturday all eyes were focused on the weather outlook for Sunday. We need not have worried as while the conditions may not have been perfect they were certainly a vast improvement on the day before. For some time the Orbell Cup has resided south of the Rakaia with the Timaru Golf Club and I was particularly anxious that it return to its true spiritual home Shirley.
The morning foursomes over 11 holes saw us off to a good start and by lunch we had established a handy 6/2 lead with some consistent team performances. The afternoon saw a continuation of the good form across the board with a convincing 10 1/2 - 5 1/2 victory in the singles to ensure we regained the Orbell Cup by an advantage of 16 1/2 to 7 1/2. Very well done to all the participants you are all in the selectors minds for the 2010 visit to Levels!
The match for the Centennial Salver always looked to be much closer. In the morning round we edged to a 5 / 3 lead and theoretically on our home course the singles matches should favour us. The afternoon matches turned into a tussle extraordinaire as the team from Timaru was reluctant to release its grip on the trophy. The final score saw the singles at an 8 all tie but due to our slightly stronger showing in the morning both trophies now sit in our cabinet. Again well done to the team although I accept my position as a participant is now under severe threat (an 8 loss record in 4 years is not good!!).
The morning foursomes over 11 holes saw us off to a good start and by lunch we had established a handy 6/2 lead with some consistent team performances. The afternoon saw a continuation of the good form across the board with a convincing 10 1/2 - 5 1/2 victory in the singles to ensure we regained the Orbell Cup by an advantage of 16 1/2 to 7 1/2. Very well done to all the participants you are all in the selectors minds for the 2010 visit to Levels!
The match for the Centennial Salver always looked to be much closer. In the morning round we edged to a 5 / 3 lead and theoretically on our home course the singles matches should favour us. The afternoon matches turned into a tussle extraordinaire as the team from Timaru was reluctant to release its grip on the trophy. The final score saw the singles at an 8 all tie but due to our slightly stronger showing in the morning both trophies now sit in our cabinet. Again well done to the team although I accept my position as a participant is now under severe threat (an 8 loss record in 4 years is not good!!).
The Week That Was........
Last week I predicted a score of plus 9 would be needed to win the Humphrey's Cup in the four-ball par competition but unfortunately I failed to factor in the adverse weather conditions that prevailed on Saturday. (Some people need to toughen up I played in shorts and that bears no relation to the fact I have now spent the last three days suffering and recovering from a cold!!)
A gaggle of pairings made it to plus six being in countback order Rod O'Brien & John Sanders, Michael Hadley & Dermot Martin, Frank Garthwaite & Grant Osborn and Glenn Bongartz & Simon Fraser (having parred 15 and birdied 16 to get us to plus 7 & win all the haggle money Glenn missed a shortish putt on 17 to drop us back one - bugger). Overall the winners on plus seven were John Aitchison & Cowan Leckie on countback from Dennis Doherty and Bryan Tyro.
The Two's pool made it to $320 and there were 17 winners each receiving $18.80. The jackpot of $120 was struck by Mark Fiebig while nearest the pins on 3 & 11 were respectively Graham Purkis and Cowan Leckie $50 each. Nearest the pin on 2 for 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Simon Yorke and the Benjarong Thai Cuisine sponsored voucher was won by Paul Dunn. Alan Scott was again a winner with nett eagles after hole 13 was drawn for a payout of $55.
A gaggle of pairings made it to plus six being in countback order Rod O'Brien & John Sanders, Michael Hadley & Dermot Martin, Frank Garthwaite & Grant Osborn and Glenn Bongartz & Simon Fraser (having parred 15 and birdied 16 to get us to plus 7 & win all the haggle money Glenn missed a shortish putt on 17 to drop us back one - bugger). Overall the winners on plus seven were John Aitchison & Cowan Leckie on countback from Dennis Doherty and Bryan Tyro.
The Two's pool made it to $320 and there were 17 winners each receiving $18.80. The jackpot of $120 was struck by Mark Fiebig while nearest the pins on 3 & 11 were respectively Graham Purkis and Cowan Leckie $50 each. Nearest the pin on 2 for 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Simon Yorke and the Benjarong Thai Cuisine sponsored voucher was won by Paul Dunn. Alan Scott was again a winner with nett eagles after hole 13 was drawn for a payout of $55.
Inter Club Competition..........
For those of you who have not caught up with the news the Woodward Cup competition has been expanded to 11 teams for the 2010 season. In the Promotion/Relegation match held at Weedons at the weekend the two clubs to be promoted were Waitikiri and Rangiora, so unfortunately Weedons drops out with two other teams, Burham & Harewood, also being unsuccessful.
It now seems highly likely there will be a new format to the Blank & Simon Cups next year with the competitions being played on a Saturday on a fortnightly home or away basis over an extended 11 - 12 week season. During consultation as a Club we opposed the change believing it would have a detrimental effect on Club play and competitions the men's committee will now be reviewing the situation to access on what basis we may be in a position to field teams.
From informal discussions the changes may also impact on the Metropolitan competition although as yet the outcome is not clear. Canterbury Golf are also introducing the concept of Masters Golf for those over 40 who still wish to play competitive matchplay off the stick but only 18 holes per weekend. When combined with president's and over 50's there should be a place for everyone who wishes to play in an inter club competition.
It now seems highly likely there will be a new format to the Blank & Simon Cups next year with the competitions being played on a Saturday on a fortnightly home or away basis over an extended 11 - 12 week season. During consultation as a Club we opposed the change believing it would have a detrimental effect on Club play and competitions the men's committee will now be reviewing the situation to access on what basis we may be in a position to field teams.
From informal discussions the changes may also impact on the Metropolitan competition although as yet the outcome is not clear. Canterbury Golf are also introducing the concept of Masters Golf for those over 40 who still wish to play competitive matchplay off the stick but only 18 holes per weekend. When combined with president's and over 50's there should be a place for everyone who wishes to play in an inter club competition.
Odd Spots..........
Congratulations to Club member Rachel Thow who has just been appointed Director of Coaching & Development with Canterbury Golf. On behalf of all at the Club we wish Rachel well in her new position and are sure she will be successful.
It was a good weekend for Woodward Cup team member Liam Cumberpatch who won the Coringa Open with rounds of 73 & 74 just one over par. Well done Liam this is just reward for all the hard work you have put ion over the last 18 months. Hopefully with a few more successes you will be in line for higher honours with Canterbury selection. Unfortunately Liam is unable to play in the Shirley Open due to University Exams - good luck with those tests we are sure your results in the classroom will equal or exceed your efforts on the course.
The mid week men are an important part of the Christchurch Golf Club and the fabric of life at Shirley. Self titled The Mid Week Masters they held a dinner with partners last Thursday evening. There was a total of 72 attending a very successful function put on by Amanda and her team. Everyone seemed to enjoy the event and there has been a suggestion that it become an annual event. They had a buffet meal with plenty of choices and it seemed to be well received by all there. This was preceded by a social time of drinks and chat in the bar area.
It was a good weekend for Woodward Cup team member Liam Cumberpatch who won the Coringa Open with rounds of 73 & 74 just one over par. Well done Liam this is just reward for all the hard work you have put ion over the last 18 months. Hopefully with a few more successes you will be in line for higher honours with Canterbury selection. Unfortunately Liam is unable to play in the Shirley Open due to University Exams - good luck with those tests we are sure your results in the classroom will equal or exceed your efforts on the course.
The mid week men are an important part of the Christchurch Golf Club and the fabric of life at Shirley. Self titled The Mid Week Masters they held a dinner with partners last Thursday evening. There was a total of 72 attending a very successful function put on by Amanda and her team. Everyone seemed to enjoy the event and there has been a suggestion that it become an annual event. They had a buffet meal with plenty of choices and it seemed to be well received by all there. This was preceded by a social time of drinks and chat in the bar area.
Thought For The Week.............
The easiest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your wallet.
Monday, October 5, 2009
What's Happening Week of 5 October .............
As I look forward into the upcoming month I begin to wonder if I will have time to draw breath. Saturday sees the rearranged Humphrey's Cup a Pairs Fourball Par competition (plus minus & half) on current scoring you will need to be in the plus 9 range to be in the money.
Sunday sees the annual match against the Timaru Golf Club for the Orbell Cup and the Centennial Salver. This is reputedly the oldest inter club mixed match in the Southern Hemisphere and one where there has been and still is a fierce rivalry built up over a number of years. Currently both trophies reside south of the Rakaia and we are looking to reverse that result. The games are a mixture of Foursomes in the morning (the inside paddock) and singles in the afternoon - 18 holes. Given the numbers involved and tee off from 9.00am the course will be be closed until mid afternoon.
On a personal note Friday sees another outing for the Food Fairy with the Ladies who Golf Luncheon. Given the hectic past week planning and implementation are less advanced than would be otherwise expected at this stage so anything may or may not yet happen. The day is complicated by an 8.30 shotgun start to allow the Canterbury Eagles Golfing Society to run its tournament in the afternoon.
Next Monday I am taking a days annual leave to play golf with some colleagues from the North Island who are on a golf tour holiday so at this stage I will be playing 4 days in a row. I am not sure my old and decrepit body will stand the stresses and strains but a report next week will follow.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Sunday sees the annual match against the Timaru Golf Club for the Orbell Cup and the Centennial Salver. This is reputedly the oldest inter club mixed match in the Southern Hemisphere and one where there has been and still is a fierce rivalry built up over a number of years. Currently both trophies reside south of the Rakaia and we are looking to reverse that result. The games are a mixture of Foursomes in the morning (the inside paddock) and singles in the afternoon - 18 holes. Given the numbers involved and tee off from 9.00am the course will be be closed until mid afternoon.
On a personal note Friday sees another outing for the Food Fairy with the Ladies who Golf Luncheon. Given the hectic past week planning and implementation are less advanced than would be otherwise expected at this stage so anything may or may not yet happen. The day is complicated by an 8.30 shotgun start to allow the Canterbury Eagles Golfing Society to run its tournament in the afternoon.
Next Monday I am taking a days annual leave to play golf with some colleagues from the North Island who are on a golf tour holiday so at this stage I will be playing 4 days in a row. I am not sure my old and decrepit body will stand the stresses and strains but a report next week will follow.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Garden Party................
Garden Party - Drinks & Nibbles on the Terrace; following on from the successful Hot August Night Wine Tasting the Social Committee is looking to run a Garden Party function in and around the Club House on Sunday 13 December 2009. Enter the date in your social diary/calendar and further information will follow!!!
Shirley Open...................
Over the next few weeks this item will be a regular feature of the Blog as we move into tournament mode. I would ask all members who will be in the Christchurch environs over Labour Weekend to block out at least part of the weekend to assist or watch the Shirley Open.
Over the past fortnight we have been in a position to finalise the sponsorship options for the Tournament and we anticipate being in a position to announce that in the next wee while in conjunction with the NZPGA & New Zealand Golf. What we can say is that we have an outstanding field of Amateurs both male and female and a strong contingent of touring pros. We look certain to repeat or better the success of last year.
Currently there are two matters of immediate importance. Firstly in the next week to ten days we will be actively seeking volunteers for the myriad of tasks that arise during a four day tournament including ball spotters, scorers, communicators and walkers. More information and telephone calls will follow so please hold yourself in readiness for the inevitable requests.
Secondly the Pro-am day is scheduled for Thursday 22 October 2009 and we have a few spaces left that we would like to fill as soon as possible. We have a number of events planned to make this an entertaining and fun day so I would urge you to put together a team and enter as soon as possible. This is a great chance to support the Club in a tangible manner.
Over the past fortnight we have been in a position to finalise the sponsorship options for the Tournament and we anticipate being in a position to announce that in the next wee while in conjunction with the NZPGA & New Zealand Golf. What we can say is that we have an outstanding field of Amateurs both male and female and a strong contingent of touring pros. We look certain to repeat or better the success of last year.
Currently there are two matters of immediate importance. Firstly in the next week to ten days we will be actively seeking volunteers for the myriad of tasks that arise during a four day tournament including ball spotters, scorers, communicators and walkers. More information and telephone calls will follow so please hold yourself in readiness for the inevitable requests.
Secondly the Pro-am day is scheduled for Thursday 22 October 2009 and we have a few spaces left that we would like to fill as soon as possible. We have a number of events planned to make this an entertaining and fun day so I would urge you to put together a team and enter as soon as possible. This is a great chance to support the Club in a tangible manner.
Visitors Day 17 October...................
On Saturday 17 October we are running Visitors Day which enables a member to invite a guest to play, on a Saturday, without the payment of green fees. i.e. bring a friend. This is an excellent opportunity to "showcase" Shirley Links a mere week out from the Shirley open.
We currently have a few vacancies for members to this is an appropriate time to market the Christchurch Golf Club to your friends, family, and business associates accordingly I would encourage as many members as possible to avail themselves of this chance. Membership application forms will of course be available on the day!! Any questions please feel free to speak with me or Struan.
We currently have a few vacancies for members to this is an appropriate time to market the Christchurch Golf Club to your friends, family, and business associates accordingly I would encourage as many members as possible to avail themselves of this chance. Membership application forms will of course be available on the day!! Any questions please feel free to speak with me or Struan.
The Week That Was........
Saturday's Match of the Day was a Teams Event - Bamboozle Stableford (best three of the four scores counting on each hole). As anticipated the scoring was once again of a high calibre but setting a total early in the morning that was simply too hard to beat was the team of Grant Adamson, Rob Aitken, Michael Ambrose & Paul Davies with 127 points.
There were plethora of teams tied on 120 points and in countback order they were: Jim Glass Bryan Graham David Hicks & Ahmad Hosseini in second, Ken Fergus Philip Hong Andrew Hopkins & Andrew Sloane in third from Andrew Gillespie, Brent Musgrave, Chris Richmond, & Joe Tiller.
Undoubtedly the highlight of the afternoon was a hole in one by David Blair at 11. We were on 8 green at the time and given the noise from the tee we were in no doubt the ball was in the hole. Congratulations David very well done and thanks for "the shout" afterwards it was much appreciated. Including David's ace the two's pool of $280 was divided amongst 13 winners each receiving $21.55 while the opening pool of $65 for the jackpot carries over.
Nearest the pin on 11 was surprise surprise David Blair - $35 while on 3 it was Simon Yorke for a similar amount. Nearest to the pin on 2 for 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Paul Davies while Bruce Taylor was successful for the Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher on 18. Nett Eagles once again had an opening pool this time of $65 and hole 17 was drawn with Alan Scott and Bryan Graham being the winners.
In the final of the Top Dog Dean Palmer and I were completely outplayed by Niven Boyle and Ian Currie. I wish I could say it was a game of two halves but effectively it was a game of one very long half. Well played Niven and Ian you were far too good for us on the day and you are worthy Top Dog Champions. For those wondering about the score suffice to say it was well and truly convincing.
Despite the threat of bad weather, and it eventuating, the pairings in the Page Trophy semi's decided it was not bad enough to postpone play. In the first match off, the husband and wife combination of, Murray and Lorraine Smith proved too strong for Glenn Bongartz and Alison McMillan although in the food stakes I understand Alison was a clear winner rewarding Glenn for good shots with whitebait sandwiches and afghans. I understand there is now a waiting list to play with Alison next year but that Glenn is at the head of the queue and expressing considerable interest in playing mixed golf on a more regular basis with Alison as well.
In the other match the Cains played the Scott's in what promised to be a highly competitive encounter. The Scott's got off to a flying start but then Terry and Struan knuckled down and closed the gap they were unable to get in front and the match finished 4/2 in favour of Alan & Karyn at 16. Defying the inclement conditions they then played out 17 & 18, which in my view was nothing short of madness, before relaxing in front of a Grant Osborn inspired fire in the clubhouse (just as well we have heaps of firewood!!).
There were plethora of teams tied on 120 points and in countback order they were: Jim Glass Bryan Graham David Hicks & Ahmad Hosseini in second, Ken Fergus Philip Hong Andrew Hopkins & Andrew Sloane in third from Andrew Gillespie, Brent Musgrave, Chris Richmond, & Joe Tiller.
Undoubtedly the highlight of the afternoon was a hole in one by David Blair at 11. We were on 8 green at the time and given the noise from the tee we were in no doubt the ball was in the hole. Congratulations David very well done and thanks for "the shout" afterwards it was much appreciated. Including David's ace the two's pool of $280 was divided amongst 13 winners each receiving $21.55 while the opening pool of $65 for the jackpot carries over.
Nearest the pin on 11 was surprise surprise David Blair - $35 while on 3 it was Simon Yorke for a similar amount. Nearest to the pin on 2 for 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Paul Davies while Bruce Taylor was successful for the Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher on 18. Nett Eagles once again had an opening pool this time of $65 and hole 17 was drawn with Alan Scott and Bryan Graham being the winners.
In the final of the Top Dog Dean Palmer and I were completely outplayed by Niven Boyle and Ian Currie. I wish I could say it was a game of two halves but effectively it was a game of one very long half. Well played Niven and Ian you were far too good for us on the day and you are worthy Top Dog Champions. For those wondering about the score suffice to say it was well and truly convincing.
Despite the threat of bad weather, and it eventuating, the pairings in the Page Trophy semi's decided it was not bad enough to postpone play. In the first match off, the husband and wife combination of, Murray and Lorraine Smith proved too strong for Glenn Bongartz and Alison McMillan although in the food stakes I understand Alison was a clear winner rewarding Glenn for good shots with whitebait sandwiches and afghans. I understand there is now a waiting list to play with Alison next year but that Glenn is at the head of the queue and expressing considerable interest in playing mixed golf on a more regular basis with Alison as well.
In the other match the Cains played the Scott's in what promised to be a highly competitive encounter. The Scott's got off to a flying start but then Terry and Struan knuckled down and closed the gap they were unable to get in front and the match finished 4/2 in favour of Alan & Karyn at 16. Defying the inclement conditions they then played out 17 & 18, which in my view was nothing short of madness, before relaxing in front of a Grant Osborn inspired fire in the clubhouse (just as well we have heaps of firewood!!).
President's Grade Report..............
Our guest reporter Dennis Doherty provides a golfing report from that hidden gem of the Canterbury Golfing landscape out near neighbours Everglades.
Bitterly cold strong southerly wind greeted our players as we gradually assembled at Everglades - good news full ensemble present just before 9am - no one missing - Jin Ho early ( which is unusual) & looking very relaxed - retirement obviously agrees with him.
Sun shining & no sign yet of the predicted snow & hail.
Bill Webb ( Everglades Captain) won the toss & away we went. There ends the good news.
First hole is a tricky 140m par 3, with devilish little humps & run offs etc - All the Everglade players seem to hit the green & stay there - we are all short or too long - and so it went on.
Course and greens were in good condition - but all tricky - Hitting straight - chipping & putting well to and on the small saucer shape greens was at a premium. Generally we weren't good at these basic strokes!!
Excellent fight back by Jeff Gray - who was 3 down early but got back to all square & so it mainly remained - a tense match that continued through the squalls of hail & sleet that scurried through. A wee chink & a bit of tree trouble on the 18th by Kevin ( Everglades) on the 18th - Jeff maintained his form ( using the adjacent fairway to full advantage) to win 1 up on the 18th.
Our other hero was Mr Tyro - who pulled himself out of his sick bed - & incurring Karen's wrath - ( not to be recommended - gentle lady that she is) -
Brian held on to half the 18th for a half - he was disappointed to lose his lead over the last few holes & when we saw Ho & Richard Pearse waiting outside the clubhouse for us - we all thought that just maybe we had let a golden opportunity go by. Not to be - Ho having a smoke break - Richard
just being inquisitive - I think - as both went down as did the rest of the team. In the words of Bill Webb - they participated well - most of us didn't with the Team going down 6.5 to 1.5. - But an improved performance on our recent visits to Everglades (Yes I recall previous trips were worse although it is hard to imagine!).
Our next game is on the 18th of October at Waitikiri - we will have 2 ex locals - Jeff & Tony to help us out.
Bitterly cold strong southerly wind greeted our players as we gradually assembled at Everglades - good news full ensemble present just before 9am - no one missing - Jin Ho early ( which is unusual) & looking very relaxed - retirement obviously agrees with him.
Sun shining & no sign yet of the predicted snow & hail.
Bill Webb ( Everglades Captain) won the toss & away we went. There ends the good news.
First hole is a tricky 140m par 3, with devilish little humps & run offs etc - All the Everglade players seem to hit the green & stay there - we are all short or too long - and so it went on.
Course and greens were in good condition - but all tricky - Hitting straight - chipping & putting well to and on the small saucer shape greens was at a premium. Generally we weren't good at these basic strokes!!
Excellent fight back by Jeff Gray - who was 3 down early but got back to all square & so it mainly remained - a tense match that continued through the squalls of hail & sleet that scurried through. A wee chink & a bit of tree trouble on the 18th by Kevin ( Everglades) on the 18th - Jeff maintained his form ( using the adjacent fairway to full advantage) to win 1 up on the 18th.
Our other hero was Mr Tyro - who pulled himself out of his sick bed - & incurring Karen's wrath - ( not to be recommended - gentle lady that she is) -
Brian held on to half the 18th for a half - he was disappointed to lose his lead over the last few holes & when we saw Ho & Richard Pearse waiting outside the clubhouse for us - we all thought that just maybe we had let a golden opportunity go by. Not to be - Ho having a smoke break - Richard
just being inquisitive - I think - as both went down as did the rest of the team. In the words of Bill Webb - they participated well - most of us didn't with the Team going down 6.5 to 1.5. - But an improved performance on our recent visits to Everglades (Yes I recall previous trips were worse although it is hard to imagine!).
Our next game is on the 18th of October at Waitikiri - we will have 2 ex locals - Jeff & Tony to help us out.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
What's Happening Week of 28 September............
This Saturday sees the penultimate round of the revised shootout with Match of the Day being a Teams Bamboozle Stableford, a competition that is both enjoyable and keeps everyone in the game. The Presidents team travel to the well known centre of golf further down Marshlands Road, called Everglades on Sunday and we wait with anticipation for the report.
October also sees two of our traditional inter club fixtures take place. The Timaru Golf Club visits on Sunday 11 October to play the Orbell Cup and the following week a Men's Team travels to Royal Wellington to play in the Tuson Cup weekend so we have a busy time ahead.
Over the next month our Club programme moves into wind up mode prior to the fairway renovation project and in the interim our course is being prepared for two open tournaments. In the week of the 12 October a Masters Women's Tournament for three days and then at Labour weekend the Shirley Open takes place.
The Shirley Open forms part of the Charles Tour and we are currently finalising the sponsorship arrangements to ensure another successful year. This is one event where we do seek the whole hearted support of the members both as volunteers during the 4 days of play and for the pro am.
The pro am provides us with the opportunity to host an event that can be successful and rewarding both for the club and the participating members. It gives members the opportunity to showcase Shirley at its best to their friends and business associates at its most challenging - set up for Tournament play.
If you have not already done so I would urge you to consider entering a team and joining the occasion or even becoming an associate sponsor. The pro am is scheduled for Thursday 22 October and the more teams the better the competition and the fun. For further information please speak either to me or to Struan at the office . Over the next few weeks get ready to hear a lot more about the Shirley Open and how you can assist the Club.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
October also sees two of our traditional inter club fixtures take place. The Timaru Golf Club visits on Sunday 11 October to play the Orbell Cup and the following week a Men's Team travels to Royal Wellington to play in the Tuson Cup weekend so we have a busy time ahead.
Over the next month our Club programme moves into wind up mode prior to the fairway renovation project and in the interim our course is being prepared for two open tournaments. In the week of the 12 October a Masters Women's Tournament for three days and then at Labour weekend the Shirley Open takes place.
The Shirley Open forms part of the Charles Tour and we are currently finalising the sponsorship arrangements to ensure another successful year. This is one event where we do seek the whole hearted support of the members both as volunteers during the 4 days of play and for the pro am.
The pro am provides us with the opportunity to host an event that can be successful and rewarding both for the club and the participating members. It gives members the opportunity to showcase Shirley at its best to their friends and business associates at its most challenging - set up for Tournament play.
If you have not already done so I would urge you to consider entering a team and joining the occasion or even becoming an associate sponsor. The pro am is scheduled for Thursday 22 October and the more teams the better the competition and the fun. For further information please speak either to me or to Struan at the office . Over the next few weeks get ready to hear a lot more about the Shirley Open and how you can assist the Club.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Finals Day...........
The Christchurch Golf Club was represented on Finals Day at Russley by our Woodward and Blank Cup Teams. After a difficult season for both teams there was a quiet confidence that we were in with a chance to bring home some silverware.
Our Blank team had finished fourth and drew the top qualifiers Waitikiri in the semis. Although we put up a spirited performance we were unable to match a team determined to regain Woodward status with this as a milestone on the journey. Congratulations to Peter Sim and Karl Kitchingham who both had wins and to Brad Clark for a half but that was as close as we could get in a 5 1/2 to 2 1/2 loss. Later in the day Waitikiri secured the Blank Cup after a sudden death play off against the home side Russley. Congratulations to Rod O'Brien and the team for progressing to the finals and we have built the foundations for success next year albeit in a revised competition.
Although the playing through champions our Woodward team had a different look from 12 months ago but there was no denying a steely determination to give of their best. The morning match was against top qualifiers Kaiapoi who were appeared quietly confident notwithstanding we had beaten them in the same match last year. This confidence appeared to be well founded as two premature unexpected losses gave them an early advantage. Liam Cumberpatch moved to redress the balance with a meritorious win over the experienced Karl Mariau 4/2 and then Nathan Gilbert evened up the ledger with a 2/1 victory at number 6.
Unfortunately bad news followed as Kaiapoi number 2 Jamie Meade closed out an up and down match against Peter MacDougall at 16 to move Kaiapoi to a three two lead. The final match had JB Sanders paired against Jason Sincock and it had been nip and tuck the whole way round. JB sunk a 15 foot putt on 16, followed by a fist pump, to stay square and 17 was subsequently halved. It all now rested on 18 and Kaiapoi only needed to half the hole to stay square and win the overall match.
The pin on 18 was placed in a treacherous position in the sloping lower centre. Although greenside for 2 JB could not hole out for par and made bogey. The Kaiapoi player had put his second in the bunker and his recovery shot left him 10 feet below the hole. His first putt slid by 2 feet above and with JB having been unable to hole out he needed to make the return to secure the half and victory. From the time the putter hit the ball it moved absolutely sideways with the borrow to not even touch the hole as it went past to provide JB with a one up win and an unlikely half on the overall match. A playoff would be required to ascertain the afternoon finalist.
After some discussion Tom Turner, as captain and with the best playing record through the competition, stood up for Christchurch matched against Jamie Meade of Kaiapoi. Playing 17, although slightly wayward left with his drive, Tom played a superbly weighted 9 iron second from 16 fairway to be at the back of the green behind the pin but crucially on the same level for two. The second for the Kaiapoi player from centre fairway, pumped by adrenalin, flew the green and finished over the back below green level with some tree trouble. A delicate chip found the green but left a lengthy par saving putt. Tom hit his putt stone dead and then Jamie Meade answered with a pressure filled stroke that found the centre of the cup for a half and we moved on to 18.
Hitting off first the Kaiapoi drive headed right into the rough some distance back while Tom calmly smashed his straight down the middle. Playing first with the pin still in the same position Jamie muscled his ball from the rough onto the green but well above the hole. Tom replied with a classic 6 iron to the right of the pin but only just hole high. Above the pin was not the preferred position and so it proved as putting first the Kaiapoi ball would not stop rolling and he was still away. Going back up hill the ball raced past in the other direction. Tom once again measured his putt and while leaving some work he had a clear advantage. Unfortunately Kaiapoi continued to have difficulty in holing out and with a number of putts in hand Tom sunk his for a par and a sudden death win.
With a mere 30 minutes for lunch our boys were back on the tee for the final against perennial foes Russley who had of course the home advantage. In round robin play, 2 weeks before, we had halved in an extremely tight match and this promised to be nothing different. As the afternoon chill set in we won the toss and hit off first. At the bottom of the order the young Russley team got off to a flying start and never relented on the pressure and losses were recorded at 4, 5, & 6. If we were to be in with a chance the top three would have to bring us home.
At number 3 JB posted our first win to get us back in the game, while neither team seemed to be able to establish ascendancy in the top pairing. Through 15 holes both matches were square and it would be fair to say some indifferent putting saw us squander our chances to go 1 up in both at 16. The Christchurch pairing were rock solid down 17 while both Russley players headed off down the right and had to play recovery shots well short of the green but no with easy up and down. Difficult chips left Russley with long par saving putts especially as Peter MacDougall put his third stone dead and Tom Turner was left with nothing but a formality for par. Answering the challenge both Russley players sunk the difficult "must makes" to remain square. Once again we were heading down 18 with all to play still at stake.
The afternoon saw the pin move to the back of the green in a reasonably inaccessible positioning which would test both the nerve and skill of the players. After the drives the advantage was slightly Christchurch and the seconds from Russley were nothing to write home about and the door was slightly ajar. Peter MacDougall finished on the right hand edge slightly below the hole while Tom Turner had gone flag hunting and hit 4 iron pin high to the left the hole. Tom made par while his opponent made bogey to put us in with a chance at 3/2 but unfortunately the Russley number 2 made par with a great two putt from nowhere at the extreme front of the green and we had no answer for a final loss 4/2 .
While not the result for which we had hoped our Team competed tenuously throughout the afternoon and with an ounce of luck on the odd putt we could have halved the match and been in a play off once again. Many thanks to the numerous club members who made it out to Russley on Sunday your support was greatly appreciated as were the efforts of those who gave up their day for caddying. We will return next year determined to regain the Cup!
Our Blank team had finished fourth and drew the top qualifiers Waitikiri in the semis. Although we put up a spirited performance we were unable to match a team determined to regain Woodward status with this as a milestone on the journey. Congratulations to Peter Sim and Karl Kitchingham who both had wins and to Brad Clark for a half but that was as close as we could get in a 5 1/2 to 2 1/2 loss. Later in the day Waitikiri secured the Blank Cup after a sudden death play off against the home side Russley. Congratulations to Rod O'Brien and the team for progressing to the finals and we have built the foundations for success next year albeit in a revised competition.
Although the playing through champions our Woodward team had a different look from 12 months ago but there was no denying a steely determination to give of their best. The morning match was against top qualifiers Kaiapoi who were appeared quietly confident notwithstanding we had beaten them in the same match last year. This confidence appeared to be well founded as two premature unexpected losses gave them an early advantage. Liam Cumberpatch moved to redress the balance with a meritorious win over the experienced Karl Mariau 4/2 and then Nathan Gilbert evened up the ledger with a 2/1 victory at number 6.
Unfortunately bad news followed as Kaiapoi number 2 Jamie Meade closed out an up and down match against Peter MacDougall at 16 to move Kaiapoi to a three two lead. The final match had JB Sanders paired against Jason Sincock and it had been nip and tuck the whole way round. JB sunk a 15 foot putt on 16, followed by a fist pump, to stay square and 17 was subsequently halved. It all now rested on 18 and Kaiapoi only needed to half the hole to stay square and win the overall match.
The pin on 18 was placed in a treacherous position in the sloping lower centre. Although greenside for 2 JB could not hole out for par and made bogey. The Kaiapoi player had put his second in the bunker and his recovery shot left him 10 feet below the hole. His first putt slid by 2 feet above and with JB having been unable to hole out he needed to make the return to secure the half and victory. From the time the putter hit the ball it moved absolutely sideways with the borrow to not even touch the hole as it went past to provide JB with a one up win and an unlikely half on the overall match. A playoff would be required to ascertain the afternoon finalist.
After some discussion Tom Turner, as captain and with the best playing record through the competition, stood up for Christchurch matched against Jamie Meade of Kaiapoi. Playing 17, although slightly wayward left with his drive, Tom played a superbly weighted 9 iron second from 16 fairway to be at the back of the green behind the pin but crucially on the same level for two. The second for the Kaiapoi player from centre fairway, pumped by adrenalin, flew the green and finished over the back below green level with some tree trouble. A delicate chip found the green but left a lengthy par saving putt. Tom hit his putt stone dead and then Jamie Meade answered with a pressure filled stroke that found the centre of the cup for a half and we moved on to 18.
Hitting off first the Kaiapoi drive headed right into the rough some distance back while Tom calmly smashed his straight down the middle. Playing first with the pin still in the same position Jamie muscled his ball from the rough onto the green but well above the hole. Tom replied with a classic 6 iron to the right of the pin but only just hole high. Above the pin was not the preferred position and so it proved as putting first the Kaiapoi ball would not stop rolling and he was still away. Going back up hill the ball raced past in the other direction. Tom once again measured his putt and while leaving some work he had a clear advantage. Unfortunately Kaiapoi continued to have difficulty in holing out and with a number of putts in hand Tom sunk his for a par and a sudden death win.
With a mere 30 minutes for lunch our boys were back on the tee for the final against perennial foes Russley who had of course the home advantage. In round robin play, 2 weeks before, we had halved in an extremely tight match and this promised to be nothing different. As the afternoon chill set in we won the toss and hit off first. At the bottom of the order the young Russley team got off to a flying start and never relented on the pressure and losses were recorded at 4, 5, & 6. If we were to be in with a chance the top three would have to bring us home.
At number 3 JB posted our first win to get us back in the game, while neither team seemed to be able to establish ascendancy in the top pairing. Through 15 holes both matches were square and it would be fair to say some indifferent putting saw us squander our chances to go 1 up in both at 16. The Christchurch pairing were rock solid down 17 while both Russley players headed off down the right and had to play recovery shots well short of the green but no with easy up and down. Difficult chips left Russley with long par saving putts especially as Peter MacDougall put his third stone dead and Tom Turner was left with nothing but a formality for par. Answering the challenge both Russley players sunk the difficult "must makes" to remain square. Once again we were heading down 18 with all to play still at stake.
The afternoon saw the pin move to the back of the green in a reasonably inaccessible positioning which would test both the nerve and skill of the players. After the drives the advantage was slightly Christchurch and the seconds from Russley were nothing to write home about and the door was slightly ajar. Peter MacDougall finished on the right hand edge slightly below the hole while Tom Turner had gone flag hunting and hit 4 iron pin high to the left the hole. Tom made par while his opponent made bogey to put us in with a chance at 3/2 but unfortunately the Russley number 2 made par with a great two putt from nowhere at the extreme front of the green and we had no answer for a final loss 4/2 .
While not the result for which we had hoped our Team competed tenuously throughout the afternoon and with an ounce of luck on the odd putt we could have halved the match and been in a play off once again. Many thanks to the numerous club members who made it out to Russley on Sunday your support was greatly appreciated as were the efforts of those who gave up their day for caddying. We will return next year determined to regain the Cup!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)