In light of the prevailing weather conditions and the resultant cancellations there is a paucity of scores to record therefore What's Happening... and the Week that Was... have been rolled into one.
Due to the high level of rainfall during the week the decision was made on Friday afternoon that the match of the day would be cancelled but we would seek to keep the course open subject only to the amount of overnight rain. A few hardy souls (soles) ventured out to test the conditions especially in the morning - a group of intrepid women played nine holes and there was the odd single and pair to be seen.
Unfortunately because of time constraints it was necessary for my Top Dog match to proceed accordingly at 11.30 Brian Ronan, Bryan Andrews, Dean Palmer & I hit off down the first. While it was bitterly cold the rain stayed away until the 5th when the conditions became distinctly unpleasant with persistent driving rain. We watched as the groups following all exited the course at different stages but by then we were drenched and decided to battle on. Eventually after a purple patch in the worst of the conditions we emerged as a 3/2 winner - if I had sunk a shortish putt on 15 we would have avoided the long walk up 16.
To reflect the reality of the conditions an extra week will be granted for the playing of Top Dog Matches, the competition next Saturday will change to Stableford and it will count as a Shoot Out Round. Notwithstanding the lack of golf a good number of members collected in the Clubhouse around the fire for a chat and a drink, this is a normal occurrence so even if its wet do come down if only for a short time.
The Sunday Mixed Match has also been cancelled, while it was not as wet as Saturday it was very damp underfoot and the wind chill factor had kicked in. At times like this we have to have regard to the Caterers particularly when they need to buy in food so the earlier the decision is made the better for them.The Match will be rescheduled for later in the year. The Metro team was due to play Russley @ Russley but discretion was the better part of valour and the game was postponed.
After a quiet period matters pick up this week with the Board meeting on Monday, the Men's Committee on Wednesday and the Social sub-committee on Tuesday (my mother's birthday). I will report in next weeks blog on any matters of interest. Queen's Birthday weekend approaches so the blog will be sightly later in delivery next week. Please remember there is a mixed match on the Monday - get your names down!
In the interim good golfing.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Handicaping.............
Recently New Zealand Golf polled the clubs in regards the continued requirement to file a card in matchplay situations. It was the recommendation of the Men's, Women's Committees & Board that the practice be changed and cards not be compulsory. We are awaiting the NZG reply at this stage.
On cards generally, like most things in golf it relies on the integrity of the player. It goes without saying that all cards good or bad should be filed so that a realistic handicap is held by the player. There is always an area of doubt where you are playing in a teams or pairs event but if you continually hole out then in my view you should return a card.
On cards generally, like most things in golf it relies on the integrity of the player. It goes without saying that all cards good or bad should be filed so that a realistic handicap is held by the player. There is always an area of doubt where you are playing in a teams or pairs event but if you continually hole out then in my view you should return a card.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Steve Ellis Update..............
I continue to receive updates from our European correspondent Steve Ellis. While Alberto's treatment continues to progress satisfactorily the long term prognosis has not changed and is not good. Steve's daughter is remaining strong but Alberto's mother seems to be in denial part of the mamma/figlio syndrome. In line with Italian family custom it appears that Alberto will be released into home care reasonably soon. If you wish to see the whole of the e-mail drop me a line and I will forward it on to you. (Simon Ed.)
Our Inner Town life follows that of the typical Italian may I say it. Sue has past Stage One - Italian Housewife - looking out from our 3rd floor windows over our busy street life below, occasionally shaking a floormat out over the populace. Whether she will graduate with a bucket of cold soapy water remains to be seen! Our Street - via Sant Aleesandro is a rich mix of Food, Fashion, Furniture and Phones! The Italians have perfected the dexterous double - gelati in one hand, cigarette in other - smoking it seems being the slimmers mode of choice! Business opportunities here. Well firstly I would go for a Fiat Franchise ( The new Ford! ), secondly a Weight-Watchers Franchise.
Today sees the 100th Giro d'Italia Cycle race finish its Stage today in Piazza Porta Nuova in the centre of Town. Should be a good watch. The Millie Miglia Classic Car race took off from Brescia - 50 km's down the road on Thursday, on way to Roma. Stirling Moss even made a show! PM Bertolusi (sp) continues to be surrounded by 18 year old "Sophia Lorens" in any photo, this despite he facing a 6 Billion euro divorce. The Italian Elections are in full swing, why and when I've got no idea, as I don't whilst watching Italian TV. I do know the PopeMobile is somewhere in the Middle East. Tonights Tv Special - a must see! The final of the Eurovision SongQuest - aka 20 different ways to mangle The Love Song! Norway and The Ukraine early favourites. Have suspicion the fattest wallet will win.
I've rambled enough. Thanks for your ongoing thoughts and messages. Please feel free to share this email with any person/s you feel may be interested. Ciao and arrivederci Sue Sarah Alberto and Steve
Our Inner Town life follows that of the typical Italian may I say it. Sue has past Stage One - Italian Housewife - looking out from our 3rd floor windows over our busy street life below, occasionally shaking a floormat out over the populace. Whether she will graduate with a bucket of cold soapy water remains to be seen! Our Street - via Sant Aleesandro is a rich mix of Food, Fashion, Furniture and Phones! The Italians have perfected the dexterous double - gelati in one hand, cigarette in other - smoking it seems being the slimmers mode of choice! Business opportunities here. Well firstly I would go for a Fiat Franchise ( The new Ford! ), secondly a Weight-Watchers Franchise.
Today sees the 100th Giro d'Italia Cycle race finish its Stage today in Piazza Porta Nuova in the centre of Town. Should be a good watch. The Millie Miglia Classic Car race took off from Brescia - 50 km's down the road on Thursday, on way to Roma. Stirling Moss even made a show! PM Bertolusi (sp) continues to be surrounded by 18 year old "Sophia Lorens" in any photo, this despite he facing a 6 Billion euro divorce. The Italian Elections are in full swing, why and when I've got no idea, as I don't whilst watching Italian TV. I do know the PopeMobile is somewhere in the Middle East. Tonights Tv Special - a must see! The final of the Eurovision SongQuest - aka 20 different ways to mangle The Love Song! Norway and The Ukraine early favourites. Have suspicion the fattest wallet will win.
I've rambled enough. Thanks for your ongoing thoughts and messages. Please feel free to share this email with any person/s you feel may be interested. Ciao and arrivederci Sue Sarah Alberto and Steve
JB Sanders Reports On OZ.........
The following report was received from JB on his trip away representing NZ.
I was fortunate to be part of a 12 man team to go to arguably the best course in Australia, The Pines at Sanctuary Cove, to play an Australian Senior team for the Sanctuary Cove Trophy. This is the hardest course that I have played and definitely deserves its reputation. It is one of 2 courses there, the other, The Palms can be played on by green fee players but the Pines is private and you must be a member or a guest.
This event is organised like a professional event, having its own programme, starters, caddies and plenty of local spectators. It is styled on the Ryder Cup with Foursomes and Fourball games last Monday and Singles on the Tuesday after 2 practices rounds on Saturday and Sunday. NZ won the event for the first time by 16 games to 8, a real thrashing. I was fortunate to win all my 3 games, one of only 2 to do so.
I would be happy to talk further about the trip and provide you more info if you like and can point you to a very interesting web site set up especially for Australian Seniors Golf (http://www.ausoom.com/2009/2009ausvnz.html). They have an order of merit series of tournys' that are purely for over 55's and it is run just like a pro series. The Australian Seniors Champs that I played in at Bribie Island (I finished 29th out of 150), a week before the trophy match, is an example of the tourny's they have. Great camaraderie and you meet a large number of great people/players.
I was fortunate to be part of a 12 man team to go to arguably the best course in Australia, The Pines at Sanctuary Cove, to play an Australian Senior team for the Sanctuary Cove Trophy. This is the hardest course that I have played and definitely deserves its reputation. It is one of 2 courses there, the other, The Palms can be played on by green fee players but the Pines is private and you must be a member or a guest.
This event is organised like a professional event, having its own programme, starters, caddies and plenty of local spectators. It is styled on the Ryder Cup with Foursomes and Fourball games last Monday and Singles on the Tuesday after 2 practices rounds on Saturday and Sunday. NZ won the event for the first time by 16 games to 8, a real thrashing. I was fortunate to win all my 3 games, one of only 2 to do so.
I would be happy to talk further about the trip and provide you more info if you like and can point you to a very interesting web site set up especially for Australian Seniors Golf (http://www.ausoom.com/2009/2009ausvnz.html). They have an order of merit series of tournys' that are purely for over 55's and it is run just like a pro series. The Australian Seniors Champs that I played in at Bribie Island (I finished 29th out of 150), a week before the trophy match, is an example of the tourny's they have. Great camaraderie and you meet a large number of great people/players.
Of Coffee and Cafes........
My trip to Timaru dissolved into a sea of cancellations that saw me return to Christchurch on Wednesday afternoon albeit having to revisit Ashburton on Friday morning. Unfortunately exploring the hinterland of South Canterbury for hither too unknown golf courses will have to be postponed until later in the year.
As always I was anxious to sample the local coffee. Because we are based at the north end of town I did not venture down Stafford Street but was well serviced by two delightful cafes just short of the Piazza. On one side of the road is the Purple Lizard and the other the Pukeko Care & Deli. Having frequented these before I knew both to be of a high standard.
The Purple Lizard is more of your old fashioned coffee bar but they did boast an excellent selection of slices. The Rocky Road was especially good - on the base was spread a layer of raspberry jam and then the chocolate topping, which was thick, containing numerous small marsh mellows and and nuts (I had it two days in a row for morning tea!!). Also in the cabinet but untasted on this trip were lolly cake (long & thin). Belgian slice, chocolate brownie and a date configuration(it would have been next on my list). There is also a good selection of other food but allow a little time because the service is not electric.
Across the way Pukeko has a slightly more substantial and upmarket choice of food (at an increased cost) with a wide variety available. The menu has pick and choose flavour around a number of different salads. The coffee at both outlets is more than acceptable and I would not hesitate to recommend either one.
Following my Friday jaunt to Ashburton I stopped on the return journey at The Dunsandel Store for what I considered to be a well deserved real coffee. It would be fair to say this is a much frequented cafe by the Mediation Service and apart from the Golf Club it is one of the few places you can sit in front of an open fire on a couch. An added attraction, at least for me is the wide selection of cook books to peruse! It must be said the black cat was was upset that I appeared to be encroaching on its territory but I was reluctantly accepted - it subsequently didn't move until I left. Again the coffee is of a high standard and there is an interesting selection of food, in addition the restrooms provide a talking point so have a look. The Dunsandel Store is well worth a stop if you have a few spare moments on your trip or even make a special one!
As always I was anxious to sample the local coffee. Because we are based at the north end of town I did not venture down Stafford Street but was well serviced by two delightful cafes just short of the Piazza. On one side of the road is the Purple Lizard and the other the Pukeko Care & Deli. Having frequented these before I knew both to be of a high standard.
The Purple Lizard is more of your old fashioned coffee bar but they did boast an excellent selection of slices. The Rocky Road was especially good - on the base was spread a layer of raspberry jam and then the chocolate topping, which was thick, containing numerous small marsh mellows and and nuts (I had it two days in a row for morning tea!!). Also in the cabinet but untasted on this trip were lolly cake (long & thin). Belgian slice, chocolate brownie and a date configuration(it would have been next on my list). There is also a good selection of other food but allow a little time because the service is not electric.
Across the way Pukeko has a slightly more substantial and upmarket choice of food (at an increased cost) with a wide variety available. The menu has pick and choose flavour around a number of different salads. The coffee at both outlets is more than acceptable and I would not hesitate to recommend either one.
Following my Friday jaunt to Ashburton I stopped on the return journey at The Dunsandel Store for what I considered to be a well deserved real coffee. It would be fair to say this is a much frequented cafe by the Mediation Service and apart from the Golf Club it is one of the few places you can sit in front of an open fire on a couch. An added attraction, at least for me is the wide selection of cook books to peruse! It must be said the black cat was was upset that I appeared to be encroaching on its territory but I was reluctantly accepted - it subsequently didn't move until I left. Again the coffee is of a high standard and there is an interesting selection of food, in addition the restrooms provide a talking point so have a look. The Dunsandel Store is well worth a stop if you have a few spare moments on your trip or even make a special one!
An Observation.........?
It might be old age, being an inner city dweller, or my imagination but over the last 12 months it seems to have become more difficult to enter, exit or transverse the city by motor vehicle. If at all possible the driving habits of Christchurch residents seem to have deteriorated even further. To my jaundiced eyes it appears there has been an inordinate growth of traffic and traffic delays with the congestion very apparent as you head south.
In addition SH1 to Ash Vegas is almost like driving in city traffic - head to tail nearly all the way. Tootling along in the government vehicle at 109kph as I hold left in the passing lanes the cars become a blur as they whizz past me! When did I get to be so old and slow?? No doubt soon I will be driving in a hat! I think I am lucky to have a direct route, known by my car, between home and the golf course and praise be apart from the Supermarket and Sumner I can walk most other places.
In addition SH1 to Ash Vegas is almost like driving in city traffic - head to tail nearly all the way. Tootling along in the government vehicle at 109kph as I hold left in the passing lanes the cars become a blur as they whizz past me! When did I get to be so old and slow?? No doubt soon I will be driving in a hat! I think I am lucky to have a direct route, known by my car, between home and the golf course and praise be apart from the Supermarket and Sumner I can walk most other places.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
What's Happening Week of 18 May.........
The Club programme shows a relatively quiet week in and around Shirley, however as always we can highlight the points to be noted.
The Saturday competition is a Stableford, 3 grades and also doubles as a shootout round. Given the current good conditions now is probably a good time to see if you can post a counting score. For those still alive in the Top Dog round 2 matches are due to be played by the 24 May - please note do not ask for an extension as a refusal may offend!!
The match of the round is between the Andrews/Ronan combination against Fraser/Palmer set for a 12.30 tee-off on Saturday. Considerable banter has already taken place with Mr Andrews asserting the TAB favours a 5/4 victory to them on the fixed odds market. Palmer on the other hand has boldly stated he has never lost to Bryan Andrews and doesn't intend to start now. I suspect it more than likely that some red wine will be wagered on the eventual outcome!!
Sunday sees the Metro Team seek redemption in the last round playing Russley at Russley, now more for pride than anything else!! The next Mixed event is set down for Sunday as well being the AEG Rhodes Bowl, a four ball par (David Robinson should have no trouble scoring this!!). It is a multi tee start at 12 noon so get your names down as soon as possible and remember there will be a meal afterwards.
To avoid double bookings record in your diary there is also a mixed match on Queens Birthday Monday which normally follows a modified Ambrose format. The second round proper of the Page Trophy competition is due to be played by the 7 June so give some consideration as to when you can get those games in.
As we move further into the winter months the Mid Winter International looms as another important calendar event - this is a teams competition so give some thought to whether you qualify for an overseas designation or something of a more local nature. More information will follow in due course.
We are still looking for expressions of interest for the Manager of the Blank Cup Team. If you are interested or know someone who might be please speak with me as soon as possible.
In the interim good (and fast) golfing!!
The Saturday competition is a Stableford, 3 grades and also doubles as a shootout round. Given the current good conditions now is probably a good time to see if you can post a counting score. For those still alive in the Top Dog round 2 matches are due to be played by the 24 May - please note do not ask for an extension as a refusal may offend!!
The match of the round is between the Andrews/Ronan combination against Fraser/Palmer set for a 12.30 tee-off on Saturday. Considerable banter has already taken place with Mr Andrews asserting the TAB favours a 5/4 victory to them on the fixed odds market. Palmer on the other hand has boldly stated he has never lost to Bryan Andrews and doesn't intend to start now. I suspect it more than likely that some red wine will be wagered on the eventual outcome!!
Sunday sees the Metro Team seek redemption in the last round playing Russley at Russley, now more for pride than anything else!! The next Mixed event is set down for Sunday as well being the AEG Rhodes Bowl, a four ball par (David Robinson should have no trouble scoring this!!). It is a multi tee start at 12 noon so get your names down as soon as possible and remember there will be a meal afterwards.
To avoid double bookings record in your diary there is also a mixed match on Queens Birthday Monday which normally follows a modified Ambrose format. The second round proper of the Page Trophy competition is due to be played by the 7 June so give some consideration as to when you can get those games in.
As we move further into the winter months the Mid Winter International looms as another important calendar event - this is a teams competition so give some thought to whether you qualify for an overseas designation or something of a more local nature. More information will follow in due course.
We are still looking for expressions of interest for the Manager of the Blank Cup Team. If you are interested or know someone who might be please speak with me as soon as possible.
In the interim good (and fast) golfing!!
Shirdale Cup..........
Sunday saw the playing of our annual match with Avondale over three grades Senior, Junior & Masters (not veterans as I had supposed and announced having viewed the composition of the Christchurch Team). The match follows the Ryder Cup format with Foursomes matchplay in the morning and Singles matchplay in the afternoon.
Our Masters team under the selection and management of Rod O'Brien started the day strongly winning all the foursomes in the morning and then playing exceptionally well to win the subsequent singles in the afternoon to record a 9 and 3 victory. The Juniors over-powered Avondale in the morning but in the afternoon the four person team suffered reversals in 3 singles matches to end up with a half on the overall competition. The Juniors were at a slight disadvantage as we had a team playing in the Junior Inter Club finals at Templeton (where we finished 3rd - well done to Mark Harris and his team of players and supporters).
The Shirdale provides a useful trial for our Woodward Cup team which this year has the potential to have an entirely new look due to retirements, injuries and unavailabilities. The team played solid golf in the morning to record 2 wins and 2 halves to take a 3/1 lead into the afternoon. A number of our less experienced players then stepped up to the mark to push their selection claims by posting six wins and a half in the singles competition and a convincing 9 1/2 = 2 1/2 win. The form of the team which included the late additions of Scotty Adams and Mitchell Vincent, for an injured Peter MacDougall and an absent Brent Ji, will now be closely monitored as interclub competition draws nearer.
Overall it was an enjoyable and worthwhile day and we look forward to travelling to Avondale next year.
Our Masters team under the selection and management of Rod O'Brien started the day strongly winning all the foursomes in the morning and then playing exceptionally well to win the subsequent singles in the afternoon to record a 9 and 3 victory. The Juniors over-powered Avondale in the morning but in the afternoon the four person team suffered reversals in 3 singles matches to end up with a half on the overall competition. The Juniors were at a slight disadvantage as we had a team playing in the Junior Inter Club finals at Templeton (where we finished 3rd - well done to Mark Harris and his team of players and supporters).
The Shirdale provides a useful trial for our Woodward Cup team which this year has the potential to have an entirely new look due to retirements, injuries and unavailabilities. The team played solid golf in the morning to record 2 wins and 2 halves to take a 3/1 lead into the afternoon. A number of our less experienced players then stepped up to the mark to push their selection claims by posting six wins and a half in the singles competition and a convincing 9 1/2 = 2 1/2 win. The form of the team which included the late additions of Scotty Adams and Mitchell Vincent, for an injured Peter MacDougall and an absent Brent Ji, will now be closely monitored as interclub competition draws nearer.
Overall it was an enjoyable and worthwhile day and we look forward to travelling to Avondale next year.
Metro Humbled............
Sunday saw two unique events befall the Metro Team:
1) For the first time in my career as Team Advisor I had 9 players at the course. Apologies to Rex Price who although named in the Team had indicated he could not play and due to a communication breakdown over timings thought he had better turn up to play notwithstanding as he put he had “One huge hangover from a very big Saturday night”.
2) We were totally humiliated at our home course by Coringa!!
We lost by 7 games to 1. Congratulations to Cran Bull who at eight held off a complete white wash and at least saved us a down trou in the club house. Normally I would give you a blow by blow breakdown of the game but I am too devastated and embarrassed to outline matters further apart from the following points:
1) Losing only one down I was the next best winner after Cran. I played a 17 handicapper who had 7 pars including 16 into the nor’ west, 17 and 18. He hit the front for the first time on 17 and held on as we both parred the last.
2) Savill lost 7/6 on the 12th after playing a 2 handicapper who shot 74. He subsequently failed to pay the full fine ($20) claiming it was an unfair match with $15 being tendered in full settlement. This matter will be referred to the Club Solicitor Ben Frampton for further consideration.
3) With 4 holes to play we were ahead in 4 games and square in another then the bottom fell out of the box with only one game going to 18.
4) The following e-mail was received from Dennis Doherty our number 6
Good morning Simon - Golf - Sunday - I should have done better - was 3 up & should have hung on - Sore Head & mind went & opponent started playing good golf - but should have been able to match him.JD was just out cannoned – Mark Harrison was firing out 250+metre drives - consistently & straight - JD did well to get his nose in front -Then we both faltered - Apologies, Cheers Dennis
We have one last chance to redeem ourselves against Russley away this Sunday.
Simon
(Aka Team Advisor – in deep depression)
1) For the first time in my career as Team Advisor I had 9 players at the course. Apologies to Rex Price who although named in the Team had indicated he could not play and due to a communication breakdown over timings thought he had better turn up to play notwithstanding as he put he had “One huge hangover from a very big Saturday night”.
2) We were totally humiliated at our home course by Coringa!!
We lost by 7 games to 1. Congratulations to Cran Bull who at eight held off a complete white wash and at least saved us a down trou in the club house. Normally I would give you a blow by blow breakdown of the game but I am too devastated and embarrassed to outline matters further apart from the following points:
1) Losing only one down I was the next best winner after Cran. I played a 17 handicapper who had 7 pars including 16 into the nor’ west, 17 and 18. He hit the front for the first time on 17 and held on as we both parred the last.
2) Savill lost 7/6 on the 12th after playing a 2 handicapper who shot 74. He subsequently failed to pay the full fine ($20) claiming it was an unfair match with $15 being tendered in full settlement. This matter will be referred to the Club Solicitor Ben Frampton for further consideration.
3) With 4 holes to play we were ahead in 4 games and square in another then the bottom fell out of the box with only one game going to 18.
4) The following e-mail was received from Dennis Doherty our number 6
Good morning Simon - Golf - Sunday - I should have done better - was 3 up & should have hung on - Sore Head & mind went & opponent started playing good golf - but should have been able to match him.JD was just out cannoned – Mark Harrison was firing out 250+metre drives - consistently & straight - JD did well to get his nose in front -Then we both faltered - Apologies, Cheers Dennis
We have one last chance to redeem ourselves against Russley away this Sunday.
Simon
(Aka Team Advisor – in deep depression)
Odd Spots.............
Paul Needs is ever the Club man and always willing to extend a hand to those in "need". On Saturday night he offered his services as a caddy to Mitchell Vincent in the Shirdale Cup given it was over two rounds. Paul said he would be there at 8.10 but Mitchell said no "Be there by 8". It must have been a hard night because Paul made it by 8 - the eighth green only an hour and a half past the designated time!!
David Isaac was seen on Sunday with a pot of yellow paint outside his front garden laying down some "no parking" lines. The Saturday morning players would have seen the cart of the Course Marshall (the said Paul Needs) stopped outside David's house on the 5th fairway apparently for a "cuppa" given the reported length of stay we are unsure as to a cup of what!!
Unfortunately David's wife Lesley is again unwell and in hospital. David's reverie was further shaken by the news his mother-in-law and her sister had driven up from Ashburton and intended staying Saturday night with him. This prompted an offer to caddy for the Metro team on Sunday to get out of the house but as we filed past David was relaxing on the couch following an early morning departure of his guests and therefore an unwillingness to bestir himself. In any event many thanks to David for the coffee he subsequently delivered to the 6th green as we came back the other way.
Congratulations to Ken and Bev Fergus who celebrated their approaching 60ths on Saturday night all the best for the coming years and I hope everything went well.
It was great to see the gathering of the Ronan family on Sunday at the Clubhouse as there were a number of the wider family present to farewell Michael who returns to Brisbane on Monday. We wish Michael all the best and hope to see him again soon. I understand another of the Ronan son's returns home this week so hopefully Claire won't miss Michael too much!!
David Isaac was seen on Sunday with a pot of yellow paint outside his front garden laying down some "no parking" lines. The Saturday morning players would have seen the cart of the Course Marshall (the said Paul Needs) stopped outside David's house on the 5th fairway apparently for a "cuppa" given the reported length of stay we are unsure as to a cup of what!!
Unfortunately David's wife Lesley is again unwell and in hospital. David's reverie was further shaken by the news his mother-in-law and her sister had driven up from Ashburton and intended staying Saturday night with him. This prompted an offer to caddy for the Metro team on Sunday to get out of the house but as we filed past David was relaxing on the couch following an early morning departure of his guests and therefore an unwillingness to bestir himself. In any event many thanks to David for the coffee he subsequently delivered to the 6th green as we came back the other way.
Congratulations to Ken and Bev Fergus who celebrated their approaching 60ths on Saturday night all the best for the coming years and I hope everything went well.
It was great to see the gathering of the Ronan family on Sunday at the Clubhouse as there were a number of the wider family present to farewell Michael who returns to Brisbane on Monday. We wish Michael all the best and hope to see him again soon. I understand another of the Ronan son's returns home this week so hopefully Claire won't miss Michael too much!!
The Week That Was.....
Well.... you read it first on "Simon Says". Last week I predicted that the team to watch in the Otago Salver was the Rountree, Brown, Hanham grouping and so it proved to be as the three were joined by Don McEwan in putting up a winning score of nett 59 albeit on countback. Following close behind were the team of Chris Abbott, Michael Hadley together with Jim & Richard McBryde again on 59 by c/b from John Aitchison, David Clark, Alan Day and Warren Glass also on 59.
While we wish we could say the dream team of Fraser,O'Brien, Andrew Vincent & Gareth Sanders were fast finishers, that would be distorting the facts because although we posted a 61 coming home in 29 we had to play the 17 & 18 in almost total darkness. A time of 4 hours 45 minutes for the final grouping is simply unacceptable particularly as the front nine took just over 2 1/2 hours. As the pandemic of slow play is now threatening to contaminate the enjoyment of Saturday golf more draconian measures including standing groups aside and moving them to the back of the field for following rounds are being considered - watch this space.
On a more cheerful note 2's were worth $46 to the lucky 5 winners but the jackpot was not struck and $225 carries forward. Closest to the pin on 3 was Tom Maling and on 11 Ray Vivian $50 each. The Nett Eagles pool of $170 was not struck after hole 5 was drawn. Nearest the pin on 2 for 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was won by Grant Osborn and Kim Sanders collected the Benjarong Thai Cuisine prize for nearest to 18 for two.
As we draw nearer to another cut off date more Top Dog matches are being played. On Saturday the father and son combination of Michael and David Kerr triumphed over the well performed pairing of Karl Kitchingham and Joe Mullins in a match that went to the 21st and again finishing in near darkness. Earlier in the day in a return to form Ian Dobson and Paddy Helmore put Lawrence Wong and Jin Ho Neoh to the sword. Interest remains high as more intriguing matches are scheduled over the next week. Keep up to date with what's happening by viewing the results board in the Men's Locker Room where you will also find the draws and results of the Godby, Denniston, Shootout and Ringers competition.
While we wish we could say the dream team of Fraser,O'Brien, Andrew Vincent & Gareth Sanders were fast finishers, that would be distorting the facts because although we posted a 61 coming home in 29 we had to play the 17 & 18 in almost total darkness. A time of 4 hours 45 minutes for the final grouping is simply unacceptable particularly as the front nine took just over 2 1/2 hours. As the pandemic of slow play is now threatening to contaminate the enjoyment of Saturday golf more draconian measures including standing groups aside and moving them to the back of the field for following rounds are being considered - watch this space.
On a more cheerful note 2's were worth $46 to the lucky 5 winners but the jackpot was not struck and $225 carries forward. Closest to the pin on 3 was Tom Maling and on 11 Ray Vivian $50 each. The Nett Eagles pool of $170 was not struck after hole 5 was drawn. Nearest the pin on 2 for 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was won by Grant Osborn and Kim Sanders collected the Benjarong Thai Cuisine prize for nearest to 18 for two.
As we draw nearer to another cut off date more Top Dog matches are being played. On Saturday the father and son combination of Michael and David Kerr triumphed over the well performed pairing of Karl Kitchingham and Joe Mullins in a match that went to the 21st and again finishing in near darkness. Earlier in the day in a return to form Ian Dobson and Paddy Helmore put Lawrence Wong and Jin Ho Neoh to the sword. Interest remains high as more intriguing matches are scheduled over the next week. Keep up to date with what's happening by viewing the results board in the Men's Locker Room where you will also find the draws and results of the Godby, Denniston, Shootout and Ringers competition.
It's All About Me......
It is with some relief that today I have relinquished the role of Practice Leader and it can be said I am no longer "acting up" - I can just go back to being the right pain I always was and am!! Notwithstanding this the Government still seeks to retain its pound of flesh in that they have left me with two projects to complete by months end.
This week I am scheduled to be in Timaru (as of now!!) but a late cancelling mediation means I do not have to travel down until Tuesday morning. I will throw the clubs in the back of the car in anticipation of some free time and continuing clement weather. Look out next week for some reviews of the highlights or lowlights of the Riviera of the South as I intend to go exploring!
This week I am scheduled to be in Timaru (as of now!!) but a late cancelling mediation means I do not have to travel down until Tuesday morning. I will throw the clubs in the back of the car in anticipation of some free time and continuing clement weather. Look out next week for some reviews of the highlights or lowlights of the Riviera of the South as I intend to go exploring!
Sunday, May 10, 2009
What's Happening Week of 11 May....
Perhaps for the first time in a wee while it is safe to draw a breath and relax for a moment?! The Board meeting has been postponed from this week until 25 May with the Men's Committee also being changed to the 27 May so I may actually have two further weeks without a golf meeting!!!
Saturdays Competition is for the Otago Teams Salver being Teams of 4 Best Ball Stroke Nett. This competition is always great fun and gives everyone a chance to part of a winning combination. Watch out for the morning players as they are normally very competitive especially the Brown/Rountree/Hanham et al grouping!
Sunday sees one of our regular inter club feature matches with Avondale for the Shirdale Cup. This competition is over three grades Senior, Veteran and Junior. Competition is by way of foursomes in the morning and singles in the afternoon. The match is important as it doubles as a Woodward Cup shakedown. Our Senior team is Peter MacDougall, Tom Turner, Liam Cumberpatch, Brent JI, Simon Yorke, Brendon Follows and Aidan Millar. We wish all the teams Good Luck and play well.
The Metro team will make an attempt to get on the course to play the match against Coringa postponed from Sunday and our Juniors are working towards finals day at Templeton. We wish Mark Harris, the supporters & parents and players all the best for the weekend.
For those of you struggling to fill up your lives now is a good time to consider getting the next round of Top Dog and Page Trophy matches played before matters become pressing at the end of the month and with Queen's Birthday just around the corner do not procrastinate as you will run out of free weekends!
As always enjoy your golf and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Saturdays Competition is for the Otago Teams Salver being Teams of 4 Best Ball Stroke Nett. This competition is always great fun and gives everyone a chance to part of a winning combination. Watch out for the morning players as they are normally very competitive especially the Brown/Rountree/Hanham et al grouping!
Sunday sees one of our regular inter club feature matches with Avondale for the Shirdale Cup. This competition is over three grades Senior, Veteran and Junior. Competition is by way of foursomes in the morning and singles in the afternoon. The match is important as it doubles as a Woodward Cup shakedown. Our Senior team is Peter MacDougall, Tom Turner, Liam Cumberpatch, Brent JI, Simon Yorke, Brendon Follows and Aidan Millar. We wish all the teams Good Luck and play well.
The Metro team will make an attempt to get on the course to play the match against Coringa postponed from Sunday and our Juniors are working towards finals day at Templeton. We wish Mark Harris, the supporters & parents and players all the best for the weekend.
For those of you struggling to fill up your lives now is a good time to consider getting the next round of Top Dog and Page Trophy matches played before matters become pressing at the end of the month and with Queen's Birthday just around the corner do not procrastinate as you will run out of free weekends!
As always enjoy your golf and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
The Week That Was .............
Quite often the weather forecast is subject to deserved criticism however I think it fair to say that over the weekend they got it pretty damn right!! Saturday was fine but cold while Sunday as predicted was an absolute disaster.
Saturday was the qualifying for the Denniston Cup for the top 16, nett stroke, to play off in match play; the round was also to count for the Shootout. The qualifying mark for matchplay was nett 73 - those who are in will be notified by mail with a copy of the draw, cut off dates and any other relevant information.
All in all some good golf was played. The Senior grade was won by Joe Tiller on 70, from Tony Park 71, while in countback order in 3rd on 72 were Dennis Maguire, Simon Yorke, and Peter Sim. The Intermediates were led home by Brian Adams on 67 from Raymond Liong on c/b from Alan Scott 68, with Dean Corry next on 69. In a return to form David Blair headed the Juniors on 69 from Grant Osborn on c/b from Dermot Martin on 71 with Peter Davey on c/b from Geoff Brodie on 74 in fourth and fifth.
A recalculation has shown 10 winners for the 2's each receiving $34.00, the jackpot, now $130, was not struck. Closest to the pins were on 3 Kim Sanders & 11 Ian Walker $50 each. Nearest the pin on 18 for 2 sponsored by Benjarong Thai Cuisine, visiting from Brisbane and a former Senior Club Champion, was Michael Ronan (I understand it was an early Mother's Day present for Claire- I hope she got something else as well!!). Nearest the pin for 2 on 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Paul Dunn. Nett Eagles was not struck with hole 15 being drawn $85 carried forward.
As most of you will know I am an avid golfer and am unwilling to forgo any opportunity to get out play in almost any conditions. Notwithstanding this when I arrived at Shirley on Sunday at 8.30am the sight was so depressing and the forecast so bad that even I was was not of such a sadistic disposition as to force any one from the comfort of the club house and accordingly an early call was made to cancel Metro and the scheduled Mothers/Daughters & Fathers/Sons. At the time the call was made the conditions were marginal but as the day wore on I am positive the correct decision was reached. This parent/child event will be rescheduled for later in the year and you will be advised of the date in due course.
Mad dogs and Englishmen go out on the midday sun but I am unsure as to how you would describe those who ventured out on Sunday, by my count there were a total of 15. An early twosome were seen heading up 4 but there subsequent whereabouts and progress were unsubstantiated. Dennis Doherty& Gill Davis were drawn to play Andrew & Robyn Gillespie in a Page Trophy match and it is to their credit that both pairs fronted and teed it up in a match that went to the 17th before Dennis & Gill secured the win. I suspect a number of the other matches will be decided on a coin toss?
A group of three men slogged their way round but exited at 15 during the early afternoon deluge - straight into the carpark and out the gate!. A Korean group of five including three women battled their way around the full 18 - they too did disappeared without venturing into the club house. As could be expected a group of four being myself, Brian Nixey and Andrew & Mitchell Vincent hit off just after 9.30am in what was to be the best conditions of the day. We played1-12 & 17, 18 in almost avoiding the most of the rain but it was very cold, wet underfoot and by the end the greens were nearly unplayable due to surface water. From the pagoda the 16th could have been renamed the Lakes while a virtual river was streaming through the 18th. We made a good decision to quit when we did especially as Brian & I won the haggle 2/1 which made the coffee and wine taste that much better.
Hopefully the conditions will improve for next week but please note I am of the philosophy that although that match of the day may be cancelled the course where possible will remain open for those brave souls who have no other way in which to wile away the hours!
Saturday was the qualifying for the Denniston Cup for the top 16, nett stroke, to play off in match play; the round was also to count for the Shootout. The qualifying mark for matchplay was nett 73 - those who are in will be notified by mail with a copy of the draw, cut off dates and any other relevant information.
All in all some good golf was played. The Senior grade was won by Joe Tiller on 70, from Tony Park 71, while in countback order in 3rd on 72 were Dennis Maguire, Simon Yorke, and Peter Sim. The Intermediates were led home by Brian Adams on 67 from Raymond Liong on c/b from Alan Scott 68, with Dean Corry next on 69. In a return to form David Blair headed the Juniors on 69 from Grant Osborn on c/b from Dermot Martin on 71 with Peter Davey on c/b from Geoff Brodie on 74 in fourth and fifth.
A recalculation has shown 10 winners for the 2's each receiving $34.00, the jackpot, now $130, was not struck. Closest to the pins were on 3 Kim Sanders & 11 Ian Walker $50 each. Nearest the pin on 18 for 2 sponsored by Benjarong Thai Cuisine, visiting from Brisbane and a former Senior Club Champion, was Michael Ronan (I understand it was an early Mother's Day present for Claire- I hope she got something else as well!!). Nearest the pin for 2 on 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Paul Dunn. Nett Eagles was not struck with hole 15 being drawn $85 carried forward.
As most of you will know I am an avid golfer and am unwilling to forgo any opportunity to get out play in almost any conditions. Notwithstanding this when I arrived at Shirley on Sunday at 8.30am the sight was so depressing and the forecast so bad that even I was was not of such a sadistic disposition as to force any one from the comfort of the club house and accordingly an early call was made to cancel Metro and the scheduled Mothers/Daughters & Fathers/Sons. At the time the call was made the conditions were marginal but as the day wore on I am positive the correct decision was reached. This parent/child event will be rescheduled for later in the year and you will be advised of the date in due course.
Mad dogs and Englishmen go out on the midday sun but I am unsure as to how you would describe those who ventured out on Sunday, by my count there were a total of 15. An early twosome were seen heading up 4 but there subsequent whereabouts and progress were unsubstantiated. Dennis Doherty& Gill Davis were drawn to play Andrew & Robyn Gillespie in a Page Trophy match and it is to their credit that both pairs fronted and teed it up in a match that went to the 17th before Dennis & Gill secured the win. I suspect a number of the other matches will be decided on a coin toss?
A group of three men slogged their way round but exited at 15 during the early afternoon deluge - straight into the carpark and out the gate!. A Korean group of five including three women battled their way around the full 18 - they too did disappeared without venturing into the club house. As could be expected a group of four being myself, Brian Nixey and Andrew & Mitchell Vincent hit off just after 9.30am in what was to be the best conditions of the day. We played1-12 & 17, 18 in almost avoiding the most of the rain but it was very cold, wet underfoot and by the end the greens were nearly unplayable due to surface water. From the pagoda the 16th could have been renamed the Lakes while a virtual river was streaming through the 18th. We made a good decision to quit when we did especially as Brian & I won the haggle 2/1 which made the coffee and wine taste that much better.
Hopefully the conditions will improve for next week but please note I am of the philosophy that although that match of the day may be cancelled the course where possible will remain open for those brave souls who have no other way in which to wile away the hours!
Canterbury Golf Awards Dinner.......
The Canterbury Golf Awards Dinner was held at the Casino on Wednesday 6 May. Attending on behalf of the Club apart from me were Kate Johnstone, Louise Glubb, Jan North, Glenn Bongartz, Dennis Maguire (also as a Canterbury Selector), Paul Needs, Struan Cain & Garry Forward. In addition there were a number of other club members present including David Page (who is of course Chairman of the Board), Kerry & Dianna Sullivan (Kerry is Chairman of the Referees Ass.), and Jim Will. It was great to catch up with Jim and he promises to make an effort and come down to the Club on a Saturday but unfortunately his health does not allow him to play at the moment.
On the menu was a cold Salmon fillet entree, followed by a main of Lamb Racks (which were really good) and a tasting plate of desserts. Readers will be pleased to know that plenty of red wine flowed throughout the evening and no one was red carded but then we didn't try to purchase a whole bottle this time!!
The evening was successful for the Club in that two of our members were named as the male and female golfers of 2008. Dana Kim with her outstanding season last year was named the winner of the Women's category while Sam Ma was named as the Men's winner. Congratulations to them both on their outstanding performances during the year. It is unfortunate that they are to be lost not only to us as club players but also to Canterbury & New Zealand golf as they have both returned to Korea to pursue professional careers.
Currently Sam is playing on the secondary Korean Tour as an amateur in order to gain experience before seeking a full card in October. Initially we had hoped he would be back in New Zealand for the Woodward Cup season but sadly this will not now transpire. I am sure all the Club will be in support when I wish both Sam and Dana all the best for the future. We will watch for their progress full of expectation of success.
For the record note that Dana's younger sister is now an active member of the Club and there is an exceptionally good chance she will follow in her footsteps given her commitment to the game. She has just received her first handicap, 8!!
The evening also marked the launch of the Canterbury Golf Youth Development Trust to encourage the development of young golfers within the Canterbury Region. The Trust has been formed under the auspicious of Brett Tucker of PGF and features a number of Club members as trustees including Brian Andrews and Ken Fergus. The intention of the Trust is to ensure now and in the years to come Canterbury has the best programme to support and develop successful golfers.
On the menu was a cold Salmon fillet entree, followed by a main of Lamb Racks (which were really good) and a tasting plate of desserts. Readers will be pleased to know that plenty of red wine flowed throughout the evening and no one was red carded but then we didn't try to purchase a whole bottle this time!!
The evening was successful for the Club in that two of our members were named as the male and female golfers of 2008. Dana Kim with her outstanding season last year was named the winner of the Women's category while Sam Ma was named as the Men's winner. Congratulations to them both on their outstanding performances during the year. It is unfortunate that they are to be lost not only to us as club players but also to Canterbury & New Zealand golf as they have both returned to Korea to pursue professional careers.
Currently Sam is playing on the secondary Korean Tour as an amateur in order to gain experience before seeking a full card in October. Initially we had hoped he would be back in New Zealand for the Woodward Cup season but sadly this will not now transpire. I am sure all the Club will be in support when I wish both Sam and Dana all the best for the future. We will watch for their progress full of expectation of success.
For the record note that Dana's younger sister is now an active member of the Club and there is an exceptionally good chance she will follow in her footsteps given her commitment to the game. She has just received her first handicap, 8!!
The evening also marked the launch of the Canterbury Golf Youth Development Trust to encourage the development of young golfers within the Canterbury Region. The Trust has been formed under the auspicious of Brett Tucker of PGF and features a number of Club members as trustees including Brian Andrews and Ken Fergus. The intention of the Trust is to ensure now and in the years to come Canterbury has the best programme to support and develop successful golfers.
Odd Spots...........
Unfortunately our Pollock Cup Team was not successful on finals day, the Sunday before last, losing the semi in a close match. The Team rallied in the afternoon to finish joint third after a tied match with Waimari Beach.
Saturday saw me, David Page and Struan welcome the CEO of Canterbury Golf Doug McSweeney as a new member to the Club. In a close match Doug and I lost to Struan and David 2/1 after David made 4 on 17 with a shot to close us out. Doug shot 39 on the back nine but that was only good enough for a half as he lacked any sort of a helpful playing partner! I trust Doug enjoyed his afternoon and his introduction to the club. Luckily for him the financial loss was only $6.00 - the way I played it could have been much worse!
Quite often I am asked when do I & how long does it take to publish the Blog. The easy answer is "Ask no questions tell no lies!!" What I can say is the times recorded underneath each posting relate to some form of International Time (probably the country of origin for the host blogspot) and not to New Zealand standard time. On this subject no more will be said.
One of the hallmarks of my role as a Mediator is that I am not often called on to make a decision but instead try to empower the parties to resolve the matter in a way satisfactory to themselves. Quite often I simply say at mediation "The Government doesn't pay me enough to make decisions such as this" and after pointing out litigation risk I provide a 'gut feeling' view of what may happen should the matter go further always prefaced by "I could be wrong and you can't sue me if I am!!".
My decision making process can therefore appear (and probably is) very convoluted as I will continually attempt to address the needs and interest of all and get there by some form of consensus. The downside is that once the conclusion is reached or I make a decision I am loath to resile from it having previously considered all options and possibilities (notwithstanding I will be wracked with internal contradictions & turmoil). So be careful what you ask for because you may not like the answer when it comes back and then it won't be that easy to change.
Saturday saw me, David Page and Struan welcome the CEO of Canterbury Golf Doug McSweeney as a new member to the Club. In a close match Doug and I lost to Struan and David 2/1 after David made 4 on 17 with a shot to close us out. Doug shot 39 on the back nine but that was only good enough for a half as he lacked any sort of a helpful playing partner! I trust Doug enjoyed his afternoon and his introduction to the club. Luckily for him the financial loss was only $6.00 - the way I played it could have been much worse!
Quite often I am asked when do I & how long does it take to publish the Blog. The easy answer is "Ask no questions tell no lies!!" What I can say is the times recorded underneath each posting relate to some form of International Time (probably the country of origin for the host blogspot) and not to New Zealand standard time. On this subject no more will be said.
One of the hallmarks of my role as a Mediator is that I am not often called on to make a decision but instead try to empower the parties to resolve the matter in a way satisfactory to themselves. Quite often I simply say at mediation "The Government doesn't pay me enough to make decisions such as this" and after pointing out litigation risk I provide a 'gut feeling' view of what may happen should the matter go further always prefaced by "I could be wrong and you can't sue me if I am!!".
My decision making process can therefore appear (and probably is) very convoluted as I will continually attempt to address the needs and interest of all and get there by some form of consensus. The downside is that once the conclusion is reached or I make a decision I am loath to resile from it having previously considered all options and possibilities (notwithstanding I will be wracked with internal contradictions & turmoil). So be careful what you ask for because you may not like the answer when it comes back and then it won't be that easy to change.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
A Couple of Apologies......
Firstly my apologies for the delay in completing this weeks Simon Says it pains me to say that work intervened..... but.....work intervened and with winter approaching I had good intentions of getting up early but somehow I did not make it out of a warm bed as soon as I had anticipated.
Secondly in my wrap-up thanks on Sunday by oversight I failed to thank Bryan Andrews for his contribution to the success of the weekend. My apologies for this I can only say in my defence he & I had struggled through 18 together and probably after that round the less said the better. As always Bryan you were a key component in the event and a much valued team member, many thanks!
Secondly in my wrap-up thanks on Sunday by oversight I failed to thank Bryan Andrews for his contribution to the success of the weekend. My apologies for this I can only say in my defence he & I had struggled through 18 together and probably after that round the less said the better. As always Bryan you were a key component in the event and a much valued team member, many thanks!
The Wood Trowel.....
The Wood Trowel weekend is perhaps one of the highlights of the golfing year and while there was a change of date that decision was made with best interests of the event at heart and hopefully the same set of circumstances will not arise again in the future.
The Saturday fields were well patronised and a stableford score of 33 by countback was the cut line. The dinner attracted a total of 84 club members and all appreciated the meal as presented by Amanda & Andrew, the Lamb Shanks certainly rate a special mention although personally I had the stuffed Chicken Breast which was also delicious (but the Lamb Shanks did look great!!!).
Having attended a number of Trowel dinners I would say that this was definitely one of the more relaxed and convivial gatherings I have been associated with and it covered a wide cross-section of the membership. I would like to think that the positive atmosphere present during the evening would continue to flow on to other Club events as we move through the year. As always there was a hotly contested putting competition with the eventual winner being Aidan Millar who took away the standard bottle of gin.
As the hour grew later there was much conjecture as to the form for the following day and extravagant claims were made by the participants all to be taken with more than a grain of salt. It may have all had to do with the amount of wine consumed before during and after the meal.
Starting at 11.00 and playing in threes the field under the direction of starter Alan Scott were all on their way by 12.20. The conditions for the day were near perfect apart from the easterly that blew a little strongly now and then. As the afternoon wore on the number of spectators grew initially around the Pagoda and subsequently around the 18th and Club House surrounds.
News of scores good and bad were passed up and down the line as the round progressed and the furore by way of applause or otherwise from the 18th indicated a good shot or perhaps not such a good shot. Traditionally the scores on Sunday do not match those of the qualifying round no doubt pressure has much to do with the situation and certainly this year was no different to others.
When the scores were finally counted the overall winner was David Robinson who without the burden and responsibility of leadership recorded a creditable 39 points. David has won the Trowel once before, last century, when he tied with Chris Johns (1994). Personally I think he owes his success to the efforts of his caddy and wife Stephanie Beth who put up with him for the 18 holes. Well done and congratulations David a deserved victory.
Closely following on David's heels were JB Sanders and Grant Adamson on 38 points. Just remember that JB has a handicap of 1 so to achieve his score he effectively carted a gross 71 (1 under par) and not much room for error. I understand with a couple of putts dropping his score could have been even better. Rumour has it that Grant's score may have fluctuated a bit during the course of the day but an early night ensured he finished strongly with a good recovery. The much fancied and supported Brian Ronan recorded another solid round to finish in 4th on 37 points. It has been a big few weeks for Brian and he has responded to the pressure admirably, again very well done. Not far behind on 36 points were the pair of Jeff Suddens and Barry Fletcher a fine effort by both players.
The day ended with a few drinks and nibbles (c/o Andrew & Amanda) at the bar and the exchanging of war stories about what might have been but wasn't. All in all the weekend was a great success but as always we will review what we did to see if we can improve. Once again thanks to all the people who contributed Bryan Andrews, Ian Wagstaff, Neil Ockwell and Struan your efforts were all appreciated. We look forward to doing it all again in twelve months time!
The Saturday fields were well patronised and a stableford score of 33 by countback was the cut line. The dinner attracted a total of 84 club members and all appreciated the meal as presented by Amanda & Andrew, the Lamb Shanks certainly rate a special mention although personally I had the stuffed Chicken Breast which was also delicious (but the Lamb Shanks did look great!!!).
Having attended a number of Trowel dinners I would say that this was definitely one of the more relaxed and convivial gatherings I have been associated with and it covered a wide cross-section of the membership. I would like to think that the positive atmosphere present during the evening would continue to flow on to other Club events as we move through the year. As always there was a hotly contested putting competition with the eventual winner being Aidan Millar who took away the standard bottle of gin.
As the hour grew later there was much conjecture as to the form for the following day and extravagant claims were made by the participants all to be taken with more than a grain of salt. It may have all had to do with the amount of wine consumed before during and after the meal.
Starting at 11.00 and playing in threes the field under the direction of starter Alan Scott were all on their way by 12.20. The conditions for the day were near perfect apart from the easterly that blew a little strongly now and then. As the afternoon wore on the number of spectators grew initially around the Pagoda and subsequently around the 18th and Club House surrounds.
News of scores good and bad were passed up and down the line as the round progressed and the furore by way of applause or otherwise from the 18th indicated a good shot or perhaps not such a good shot. Traditionally the scores on Sunday do not match those of the qualifying round no doubt pressure has much to do with the situation and certainly this year was no different to others.
When the scores were finally counted the overall winner was David Robinson who without the burden and responsibility of leadership recorded a creditable 39 points. David has won the Trowel once before, last century, when he tied with Chris Johns (1994). Personally I think he owes his success to the efforts of his caddy and wife Stephanie Beth who put up with him for the 18 holes. Well done and congratulations David a deserved victory.
Closely following on David's heels were JB Sanders and Grant Adamson on 38 points. Just remember that JB has a handicap of 1 so to achieve his score he effectively carted a gross 71 (1 under par) and not much room for error. I understand with a couple of putts dropping his score could have been even better. Rumour has it that Grant's score may have fluctuated a bit during the course of the day but an early night ensured he finished strongly with a good recovery. The much fancied and supported Brian Ronan recorded another solid round to finish in 4th on 37 points. It has been a big few weeks for Brian and he has responded to the pressure admirably, again very well done. Not far behind on 36 points were the pair of Jeff Suddens and Barry Fletcher a fine effort by both players.
The day ended with a few drinks and nibbles (c/o Andrew & Amanda) at the bar and the exchanging of war stories about what might have been but wasn't. All in all the weekend was a great success but as always we will review what we did to see if we can improve. Once again thanks to all the people who contributed Bryan Andrews, Ian Wagstaff, Neil Ockwell and Struan your efforts were all appreciated. We look forward to doing it all again in twelve months time!
Monday, May 4, 2009
What's Happening Week of 4 May......
After the excitement of the Trowel weekend the golf calendar just continues to bubble on!! This Saturday is the qualifying round for the Denniston Cup, a stroke event where the top 16 qualify to play off in matchplay. Please note the matchplay rounds are by own arrangement prior to a cut off date. The round also doubles as a stableford competition for the Shootout so please keep both scores.
On Sunday we have the Mothers & Daughters/Fathers & Sons competition. Please enter at the pro shop tee times start from approximately 11.30. Light refreshments in terms of Fish & Chips will be available at the completion of the round from the Club House. The prize giving will be completed as soon as all the players are in and the results have been tabulated. The match competition is four-ball best ball stableford i.e. the best stableford score for the pair on each hole. Normally there are some pretty good scores so get out there and compete.
Metro plays the penultimate round on Sunday with us drawn against Coringa at home (at the early hour of 9.00am), hopefully we will be able to secure another win and move into mid table contention. On Wednesday evening Canterbury Golf has its prize giving and the are a number of members for the Men's and Women's Committee attending on behalf of the Club, if anything of interest occurs a full report will follow next week.
The Men's Committee are aware that there have been some scheduling clashes in the programme this year. We have resolved to review next years programme in August prior to it going to the printers to see if we can avoid further occurrences however unfortunately inter club competitions sometimes alter dates and times dependant on entries which makes the task more difficult. We will however do our best.
The Week That Was.......
The Saturday competition for the Centennial Rosebowl doubled as the qualifying round for the LB Wood Trowel on Sunday and as such both the morning and afternoon fields were reasonably full. The top 33 players were to qualify for Sunday play and the cut line was 33 points on countback notwithstanding this mark there were some exceptionally good scores posted during the day.
Leading the field in with 41 points was a previous Trowel winner Jim Keegan - whose handicap may just have slipped out the odd point or two (I understand he and JB Sanders convincingly dealt to Bryan Andrews and Ant Doyle in the haggle). There were 5 players tied with 38 points and the positions were decided again on countback Peter Phelan from Richard Peate from Tom Maling from Takahiro Koyama from (ever steady) Brian Ronan.
The two's returned a healthy $47.85 for the 7 winners, the jackpot of $65 carries forward. Nearest the pins were both worth $50 won by Gerry Burgess on 3 and Andrew Topp on 11. Nearest the pin for two on 18 sponsored by Benjarong Thai Cuisine was won by Glenn Bongartz. Brian Andrews donated a special prize (a framed Bank of Scotland banknote featuring "old" Tom Morris) for nearest to the pin on 12 for 2. This wonderful prize was won by JB Sanders who nearly holed out. Well done JB and a special thanks to Bryan Andrews.
The nett eagles were particularly sparse but as inevitably happens one of the two holes covered was drawn so the pool of $80 went to Alan Masters on 18.The Linden Leaves prize for nearest to the pin on 2 will be advised separately in due course (ok so its missing from my sheet!!).
Leading the field in with 41 points was a previous Trowel winner Jim Keegan - whose handicap may just have slipped out the odd point or two (I understand he and JB Sanders convincingly dealt to Bryan Andrews and Ant Doyle in the haggle). There were 5 players tied with 38 points and the positions were decided again on countback Peter Phelan from Richard Peate from Tom Maling from Takahiro Koyama from (ever steady) Brian Ronan.
The two's returned a healthy $47.85 for the 7 winners, the jackpot of $65 carries forward. Nearest the pins were both worth $50 won by Gerry Burgess on 3 and Andrew Topp on 11. Nearest the pin for two on 18 sponsored by Benjarong Thai Cuisine was won by Glenn Bongartz. Brian Andrews donated a special prize (a framed Bank of Scotland banknote featuring "old" Tom Morris) for nearest to the pin on 12 for 2. This wonderful prize was won by JB Sanders who nearly holed out. Well done JB and a special thanks to Bryan Andrews.
The nett eagles were particularly sparse but as inevitably happens one of the two holes covered was drawn so the pool of $80 went to Alan Masters on 18.The Linden Leaves prize for nearest to the pin on 2 will be advised separately in due course (ok so its missing from my sheet!!).
Wine Appreciation Evening.........
For sometime we have been considering how we can advance the social aspect of the Golf Club. A small sub-committee has now been formed and we are launching our first event as a Wine Appreciation Evening on the 15 August. The Evening will be led by Graeme Watson and Bruce Todd hopefully in conjunction with Vino Fino. More information will of course flow in due course in the interim please mark your diary accordingly and wait with bated breath!!
Junior Golf ..........
Our Junior golf teams had a mixture of results over the weekend. Our handicap team of Henry Pearson, Alex Sloane, Simon Watson and James Harris completed a clean sweep against Coringa Green. With a round to go they head their section of the competition and are already safely through to the semi finals.
Things are a bit tighter for our gross team. They finished with a half against Clearwater on Sunday; congratulations to Mitchell Vincent and Andrew Topp who were successful in their matches. The team is tied for third but unfortunately a clash of dates with Mother's Day and our Fathers and Sons competition has meant we have had to default the last round so it is unlikely the team will progress further notwithstanding some good golf having been played.
The finals are on the weekend of the 17 May at Templeton and I am sure that the Juniors would appreciate any support available.
Things are a bit tighter for our gross team. They finished with a half against Clearwater on Sunday; congratulations to Mitchell Vincent and Andrew Topp who were successful in their matches. The team is tied for third but unfortunately a clash of dates with Mother's Day and our Fathers and Sons competition has meant we have had to default the last round so it is unlikely the team will progress further notwithstanding some good golf having been played.
The finals are on the weekend of the 17 May at Templeton and I am sure that the Juniors would appreciate any support available.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
It's All About Me..........
My golf was less than inspiring over the weekend. Twenty points on the back 9 on Saturday saw me make the field for Sunday (on countback) but it is fair to say matters did not improve. Any one finding 2 Callaway Tour HX golf balls on the 9th one on the right and one on the left both with a smiley red face please return to me as I want the pleasure of destroying them personally!!
The curiosity of women never ceases to amaze me - put on a Kilt and all they want to know is "What's worn under the Kilt!!". If I asked the same question of them I would surely be accused of sexual harassment and of being particularly rude. For the avoidance of doubt, once and for all, and notwithstanding my current single status; "Nothing is worn under the Kilt it is all in perfect working order!!"
When you are in a trough things really mount up and even innocent comments have hidden innuendo. On Sunday I was discussing my work situation and my role of "acting up" to which the comment was made "Well I hope you can keep it up"..... I ask you!!??
The curiosity of women never ceases to amaze me - put on a Kilt and all they want to know is "What's worn under the Kilt!!". If I asked the same question of them I would surely be accused of sexual harassment and of being particularly rude. For the avoidance of doubt, once and for all, and notwithstanding my current single status; "Nothing is worn under the Kilt it is all in perfect working order!!"
When you are in a trough things really mount up and even innocent comments have hidden innuendo. On Sunday I was discussing my work situation and my role of "acting up" to which the comment was made "Well I hope you can keep it up"..... I ask you!!??
Coup d'etat in Metro.....??
As you are all aware team selection for Sunday was delayed until the field for the Wood Trowel had been finalized so there was an air of expectation as to who would front up on Sunday.
It quickly became apparent that the Team would have a new leader in that myself as Team Advisor, Steve Ellis as Assistant Team Advisor & Ben Frampton as Acting Interim Team Advisor were all unavailable. The Selection Committee met albeit briefly with glasses in hand just after 5.00pm to confirm the final composition – to the gang of 4 were added Glenn Bongartz, Dennis Maguire, Marcus Annan & David Blair. The math added to 80.5 so we were in with a good chance as to handicaps. After 30 years with the Club with no level of responsibility whatsoever it was determined that Mr. JD (aka John Dickson) would receive the hitherto poisoned chalice associated with Metro leadership as Temporary Deputy Assistant Team Advisor.
While it could hardly be said that JD grasped the cup eagerly with both hands he evinced a desire to “back up the truck” and put his best foot forward before he would “Walk Away!!”. The first task of the home Metro leader is to introduce the teams to one another. As we were playing Rawhiti the opposition had a distinct Polynesian flavour and being the master of tact JD sidestepped any pronunciation problems by using first names – forgetting we had 2 Dennis’s – once we sorted that out the next problem arose with “Kolio” having got to “K” several times JD took the easy course of saying “Well you know who you are and you’re playing the other Dennis!!”.
Having watched the teams tee-off I retired to the clubhouse for coffee and relaxation watching the PGA Tour in preparation for the battles of the afternoon. Paul Needs arrived mid morning and undertook to head out and bring back a progress report prior to my tee off time. I departed the first tee to the news that we were ahead in three and behind in five of the matches – not much of a confidence booster!! Reports then ceased and it wasn’t until I reached the 14th green that Ray Vivian was able to inform me of the final outcome.
In our bottom pairing our usual 8, Cran Bull, was playing with David Blair who despite not qualifying for the Wood Trowel and having previously failed to win any Metro Match oozed confidence and excitement. Both players had evenly matched opponents in the handicap stakes so all boded well. Cran once again proved himself to be a stumbling block to the opposition with a hard fought half but unfortunately David’s lack of success at the Metro level continued with a 5/4 loss and the imposition of the maximum allowable fine.
Early indications pointed towards a good day for the kitty as Marcus Annan appeared attired in “off white” trousers – fortunately for him before tee off he changed into what could loosely be termed black trousers. Marcus had drawn to play that inimitable character known throughout Christchurch as “Grub”. Grub is the Räwhiti team leader and generally so long as he hasn’t had a hard Saturday night can provide stiff opposition. Clearly it was not one of Grub’s better days as he succumbed to Marcus 7/6 – the biggest winning margin of our Metro team this year and equaling the Barry O’Neil feat against Coringa in 2005 (Barry was away at Coringa)*!! Dennis Doherty took a slightly more conservative approach but secured a two up win. (My win was rather fortunate & certainly adventurous - as I was 5 down after 6 - & I won the 18th with a par after breaking a clubhouse window with my 2nd shot. Fortunately the ball somehow bounced off the window onto the brick work & into the 1st bunker on the left hand side of the green. From which I managed to have a sandie save. Comment subsequently received from Dennis. Ed)
Mr. JD bearing the burden of leadership bravely moved to attack from the front but in the end settled for a half. Making a guest appearance (having retired after Templeton) Dennis Maguire, in his lowest ever start position for Metro - 3, increased his winning percentage by securing a 2/1 victory. There is still life in the “old dog’!! There is no truth to the rumour that a protest has been lodged because he and JD played in a cart. With 4 in the hutch so to speak there was significant interest in the final match.
Steve Savill having had his slope index cut to 6.5 was relieved at the inclusion of Glenn so at least he did not have to play number one. Savill as is sometimes his wont did however draw the short straw in playing a much younger man. In the end his experience and guile could not prevent a 4/3 loss. As the news filtered back it became apparent that we needed a half from Bong at 1 to secure a much needed victory. Glenn had stepped up to the mark again given our reduced numbers and had drawn Nathan Andrews – who some will know played for us in Blank Cup in 2007. Nathan is a power player and possibly one of the biggest hitters ever to walk the Shirley fairways – well past the bunker on 12 & a PW in! Glenn is however a canny match player and knows that finesse around the greens is a recipe for success. Having finally slipped to a one up lead Glenn held his nerve up 18 to secure a much needed win for himself and the team.
So after a run of 4 losses a scratch combination, picked at the 11th hour has triumphed and righted the ship so to speak to move us onto a more positive path. We now have two matches to go - Coringa at home and Russley away. While winning the competition is now not probably an option we do have the power to influence the competition outcome and move into the top half of the finishers. Our next game is against Coringa Sunday 10 May @ Shirley 8.30 for 9.00.
A bit like the democratically elected leadership of Fiji the future of the Metro management team is uncertain but things may clarify as selections are made over the next wee while. In the interim good golfing.
* The biggest Metro victory ever recorded by a Christchurch player was 8/6 against Russley at Christchurch on the 15 May 2005; I was dropped for the following week!!
It quickly became apparent that the Team would have a new leader in that myself as Team Advisor, Steve Ellis as Assistant Team Advisor & Ben Frampton as Acting Interim Team Advisor were all unavailable. The Selection Committee met albeit briefly with glasses in hand just after 5.00pm to confirm the final composition – to the gang of 4 were added Glenn Bongartz, Dennis Maguire, Marcus Annan & David Blair. The math added to 80.5 so we were in with a good chance as to handicaps. After 30 years with the Club with no level of responsibility whatsoever it was determined that Mr. JD (aka John Dickson) would receive the hitherto poisoned chalice associated with Metro leadership as Temporary Deputy Assistant Team Advisor.
While it could hardly be said that JD grasped the cup eagerly with both hands he evinced a desire to “back up the truck” and put his best foot forward before he would “Walk Away!!”. The first task of the home Metro leader is to introduce the teams to one another. As we were playing Rawhiti the opposition had a distinct Polynesian flavour and being the master of tact JD sidestepped any pronunciation problems by using first names – forgetting we had 2 Dennis’s – once we sorted that out the next problem arose with “Kolio” having got to “K” several times JD took the easy course of saying “Well you know who you are and you’re playing the other Dennis!!”.
Having watched the teams tee-off I retired to the clubhouse for coffee and relaxation watching the PGA Tour in preparation for the battles of the afternoon. Paul Needs arrived mid morning and undertook to head out and bring back a progress report prior to my tee off time. I departed the first tee to the news that we were ahead in three and behind in five of the matches – not much of a confidence booster!! Reports then ceased and it wasn’t until I reached the 14th green that Ray Vivian was able to inform me of the final outcome.
In our bottom pairing our usual 8, Cran Bull, was playing with David Blair who despite not qualifying for the Wood Trowel and having previously failed to win any Metro Match oozed confidence and excitement. Both players had evenly matched opponents in the handicap stakes so all boded well. Cran once again proved himself to be a stumbling block to the opposition with a hard fought half but unfortunately David’s lack of success at the Metro level continued with a 5/4 loss and the imposition of the maximum allowable fine.
Early indications pointed towards a good day for the kitty as Marcus Annan appeared attired in “off white” trousers – fortunately for him before tee off he changed into what could loosely be termed black trousers. Marcus had drawn to play that inimitable character known throughout Christchurch as “Grub”. Grub is the Räwhiti team leader and generally so long as he hasn’t had a hard Saturday night can provide stiff opposition. Clearly it was not one of Grub’s better days as he succumbed to Marcus 7/6 – the biggest winning margin of our Metro team this year and equaling the Barry O’Neil feat against Coringa in 2005 (Barry was away at Coringa)*!! Dennis Doherty took a slightly more conservative approach but secured a two up win. (My win was rather fortunate & certainly adventurous - as I was 5 down after 6 - & I won the 18th with a par after breaking a clubhouse window with my 2nd shot. Fortunately the ball somehow bounced off the window onto the brick work & into the 1st bunker on the left hand side of the green. From which I managed to have a sandie save. Comment subsequently received from Dennis. Ed)
Mr. JD bearing the burden of leadership bravely moved to attack from the front but in the end settled for a half. Making a guest appearance (having retired after Templeton) Dennis Maguire, in his lowest ever start position for Metro - 3, increased his winning percentage by securing a 2/1 victory. There is still life in the “old dog’!! There is no truth to the rumour that a protest has been lodged because he and JD played in a cart. With 4 in the hutch so to speak there was significant interest in the final match.
Steve Savill having had his slope index cut to 6.5 was relieved at the inclusion of Glenn so at least he did not have to play number one. Savill as is sometimes his wont did however draw the short straw in playing a much younger man. In the end his experience and guile could not prevent a 4/3 loss. As the news filtered back it became apparent that we needed a half from Bong at 1 to secure a much needed victory. Glenn had stepped up to the mark again given our reduced numbers and had drawn Nathan Andrews – who some will know played for us in Blank Cup in 2007. Nathan is a power player and possibly one of the biggest hitters ever to walk the Shirley fairways – well past the bunker on 12 & a PW in! Glenn is however a canny match player and knows that finesse around the greens is a recipe for success. Having finally slipped to a one up lead Glenn held his nerve up 18 to secure a much needed win for himself and the team.
So after a run of 4 losses a scratch combination, picked at the 11th hour has triumphed and righted the ship so to speak to move us onto a more positive path. We now have two matches to go - Coringa at home and Russley away. While winning the competition is now not probably an option we do have the power to influence the competition outcome and move into the top half of the finishers. Our next game is against Coringa Sunday 10 May @ Shirley 8.30 for 9.00.
A bit like the democratically elected leadership of Fiji the future of the Metro management team is uncertain but things may clarify as selections are made over the next wee while. In the interim good golfing.
* The biggest Metro victory ever recorded by a Christchurch player was 8/6 against Russley at Christchurch on the 15 May 2005; I was dropped for the following week!!
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