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.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
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!
Monday, September 28, 2009
It's All About Me..............
Last week I indicated that due to industrial pressures in the central North Island I was scheduled for a flying visit to Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty to assist for two days. This necessitated an ungodly start by being at the Airport at 6.15 to catch the 6.45 to Wellington and then on to Tauranga - it could never be said I am a morning person so the sacrifice for a 5.15am wake call was huge.
Flying into Tauranga for landing the plane ventured directly over two golf courses (Mount Maunganui & Omanu) and I thought this is the place for me!! Unfortunately the fly by was as close as I got not because of workload or even lack of gear but simply that weather conditions were not conducive to moving far from cover. By 9.45 I was deep in mediation that went without a break through to 3.00pm by which time the ravages of hunger were assaulting my stomach.
I ascertained from the staff that the nearest palatable coffee was from Eve's Pantry. I ventured out dodging raindrops and purchased a small repast that included coffee and some excellent Rocky Road. As I was assuaging the hunger pains I idly thumbed through a back issue of Cuisine magazine (as is one's wont when passing the time of day) and concluded there were a number of recipes that could be added to the Food Fairy manual.
The delicate question then arose as to how I could extract copies of the requisite pages without incurring the ire of the proprietors. Having pondered the matter at some length I determined the direct approach was appropriate - I asked. I have too say the request was not well received as it appears they had been "ripped off" before. I then played my trump card "Well", I said, "that's probably because they didn't have an honest face like me!" - needless to say they continued to remain unimpressed.
Calling upon all my skills of nearly a decade as a mediator I entered into the negotiation phase by commencing the attack with a positive reinforcement. I expressed my appreciation of the Rocky Road and asked did they make it on site or buy it in? The stoic reply of "We tick it on the order form and it gets delivered" did not bode well for my tactical approach. At this time I considered a strategic change in the point of attack was needed and I should reframe my argument. I told them I was a visitor to Tauranga and only here for two days; for some reason this did not seem to encourage them to accede to my behest in fact they seemed to retain a firmer hold on the said book.
By this stage I was entering into desperation stakes and considering I had nothing to lose I imparted the knowledge I worked for the Department of Labour. Strangely this unlikely titbit of information captured their imagination and struck a cord - yes they knew all about the Department who had moved in just down the road and they supposed it might be just all right if I promised to bring it back tomorrow, left a contact phone number and had some form of identification (at this stage I seriously began to question my motives in pursuing the matter further) but once again I pointed out I did have an honest face - they still remained unimpressed.
However after parting with a business card, I never been able to give one away before, leaving my cellphone number and several assurances of my undying fidelity I left the coffee shop with the said Cuisine safely ensconced in my jacket. The next morning as I returned the magazine amidst what appeared to me to be a tropical downpour that left me drenched for the rest of the day I pondered the extent of my sanity and whether it was all worth it for a couple of dubious recipes. No doubt time and taste will tell!
Following such adventures it was an anticlimax to be asked to stay a further day and drive through the Kaimai Range to Hamilton to mediate with a stroppy union official of the old school - but that's another story!
Flying into Tauranga for landing the plane ventured directly over two golf courses (Mount Maunganui & Omanu) and I thought this is the place for me!! Unfortunately the fly by was as close as I got not because of workload or even lack of gear but simply that weather conditions were not conducive to moving far from cover. By 9.45 I was deep in mediation that went without a break through to 3.00pm by which time the ravages of hunger were assaulting my stomach.
I ascertained from the staff that the nearest palatable coffee was from Eve's Pantry. I ventured out dodging raindrops and purchased a small repast that included coffee and some excellent Rocky Road. As I was assuaging the hunger pains I idly thumbed through a back issue of Cuisine magazine (as is one's wont when passing the time of day) and concluded there were a number of recipes that could be added to the Food Fairy manual.
The delicate question then arose as to how I could extract copies of the requisite pages without incurring the ire of the proprietors. Having pondered the matter at some length I determined the direct approach was appropriate - I asked. I have too say the request was not well received as it appears they had been "ripped off" before. I then played my trump card "Well", I said, "that's probably because they didn't have an honest face like me!" - needless to say they continued to remain unimpressed.
Calling upon all my skills of nearly a decade as a mediator I entered into the negotiation phase by commencing the attack with a positive reinforcement. I expressed my appreciation of the Rocky Road and asked did they make it on site or buy it in? The stoic reply of "We tick it on the order form and it gets delivered" did not bode well for my tactical approach. At this time I considered a strategic change in the point of attack was needed and I should reframe my argument. I told them I was a visitor to Tauranga and only here for two days; for some reason this did not seem to encourage them to accede to my behest in fact they seemed to retain a firmer hold on the said book.
By this stage I was entering into desperation stakes and considering I had nothing to lose I imparted the knowledge I worked for the Department of Labour. Strangely this unlikely titbit of information captured their imagination and struck a cord - yes they knew all about the Department who had moved in just down the road and they supposed it might be just all right if I promised to bring it back tomorrow, left a contact phone number and had some form of identification (at this stage I seriously began to question my motives in pursuing the matter further) but once again I pointed out I did have an honest face - they still remained unimpressed.
However after parting with a business card, I never been able to give one away before, leaving my cellphone number and several assurances of my undying fidelity I left the coffee shop with the said Cuisine safely ensconced in my jacket. The next morning as I returned the magazine amidst what appeared to me to be a tropical downpour that left me drenched for the rest of the day I pondered the extent of my sanity and whether it was all worth it for a couple of dubious recipes. No doubt time and taste will tell!
Following such adventures it was an anticlimax to be asked to stay a further day and drive through the Kaimai Range to Hamilton to mediate with a stroppy union official of the old school - but that's another story!
Odd Spots ..............
In a glaring oversight I note that I have failed to record the outcome of the Denniston Cup Final. I am able to report that Doug McSweeney was successful over Michael Sidey. As you may be aware Doug has resigned as CEO of Canterbury Golf to take up a position with Otago Rugby. We wish him success in his new role and look forward to him perhaps returning to Christchurch (both the city and the Golf Club) sometime in the not too distant future.
As was astutely pointed out to me by Brian Tyro four Macrocarpas were removed on 8 not three as previously indicated in the blog. This observation is correct, upon the removal of the three it became apparent that the fourth tree was so deformed that not only was aesthetically displeasing it would be unlikely to survive any adverse weather so the decision was made to remove it at the same time. Hopefully the fairway will be cleared of debris by the time this blog goes to print or at least soon thereafter.
Friday night drinks had some added entertainment last week. Given the inclement weather Andrew Vincent made the call to move the BBQ inside and cook the sausages and patties. All was proceeding well until the fumes set off the fire alarms throughout the clubhouse. Reasonably soon thereafter the fire brigade arrived with 2 engines and a number of firemen. Fortunately the rain desisted while we evacuated the building but Andrew's nick name has now moved from "half day Harry" to "Smokey"!!
For those of you who have maintained an interest in the Top dog competition I am in a position to confirm that the final will played on Saturday with myself & Dean Palmer playing Niven Boyle & Ian Currie teeing off at the back of the field at 1.06. Details will not doubt follow particularly if we are successful.
As was astutely pointed out to me by Brian Tyro four Macrocarpas were removed on 8 not three as previously indicated in the blog. This observation is correct, upon the removal of the three it became apparent that the fourth tree was so deformed that not only was aesthetically displeasing it would be unlikely to survive any adverse weather so the decision was made to remove it at the same time. Hopefully the fairway will be cleared of debris by the time this blog goes to print or at least soon thereafter.
Friday night drinks had some added entertainment last week. Given the inclement weather Andrew Vincent made the call to move the BBQ inside and cook the sausages and patties. All was proceeding well until the fumes set off the fire alarms throughout the clubhouse. Reasonably soon thereafter the fire brigade arrived with 2 engines and a number of firemen. Fortunately the rain desisted while we evacuated the building but Andrew's nick name has now moved from "half day Harry" to "Smokey"!!
For those of you who have maintained an interest in the Top dog competition I am in a position to confirm that the final will played on Saturday with myself & Dean Palmer playing Niven Boyle & Ian Currie teeing off at the back of the field at 1.06. Details will not doubt follow particularly if we are successful.
The Week That Was............
Saturday saw a Pairs match on Aggregate Stableford for the P.P.Hall Trophy notwithstanding the dire weather forecast the day progressed in a pleasant enough fashion (although slightly chilly) for the large field and once again the scoring was of a good nature.
Returning the best card of the day were the early morning players of Niven Boyle (38) and Richard Pearse (41) for a combined total of 79 a mere 6 clear of the next best pairing. In second on 73 by countback were Andrew Gillespie (34) & Tracy Tatom (39) from Paul Dunn (37) & Simon Yorke (36) while David Blair (35) & Ahmad Hosseeini (37) on 72 points were fourth.
There was a huge two's pool of $360.00 which was just as well because there were 21 winners each receiving only $17.15. There was a new jackpot amounting to $55 and this was collected by John Sinclair. Nearest the pins were worth $35 and were won by Ian Satterthwaite on 3 and Grahame Buist on 11.
On a day where low payouts abounded the new nett eagles pool of $55 was struck after hole five was drawn with Paul Dunn - a true eagle 3, Brian Nixey, Don Rae & Chris Brockett were successful - $13.75 each. On the sponsored holes David Page won the Linden Leaves prize for closest to 2 for 2 (he told me he subsequently made the putt for birdie) and Mitchell Vincent won the Benjarong Thai Cuisine prize for the closest to 18 for 2 again. I wonder if he will give this voucher to Amanda and Andrew or whether he and a friend will go??
Returning the best card of the day were the early morning players of Niven Boyle (38) and Richard Pearse (41) for a combined total of 79 a mere 6 clear of the next best pairing. In second on 73 by countback were Andrew Gillespie (34) & Tracy Tatom (39) from Paul Dunn (37) & Simon Yorke (36) while David Blair (35) & Ahmad Hosseeini (37) on 72 points were fourth.
There was a huge two's pool of $360.00 which was just as well because there were 21 winners each receiving only $17.15. There was a new jackpot amounting to $55 and this was collected by John Sinclair. Nearest the pins were worth $35 and were won by Ian Satterthwaite on 3 and Grahame Buist on 11.
On a day where low payouts abounded the new nett eagles pool of $55 was struck after hole five was drawn with Paul Dunn - a true eagle 3, Brian Nixey, Don Rae & Chris Brockett were successful - $13.75 each. On the sponsored holes David Page won the Linden Leaves prize for closest to 2 for 2 (he told me he subsequently made the putt for birdie) and Mitchell Vincent won the Benjarong Thai Cuisine prize for the closest to 18 for 2 again. I wonder if he will give this voucher to Amanda and Andrew or whether he and a friend will go??
Roving Reporter.........
This is the last report from our roving reporter Charles Whitwham as advance intelligence advises he will be returning to Christchurch on Friday 2 October 2009;
21 Sept Today I played the first course that was designed by the great Dr Alister MacKenzie, The Alwoodley Golf Club. Founded in 1907, Alwoodley forms part of the famous stretch of golfing territory on the northern fringe of Leeds. The course covers 115 acres of acidic heathland over a part of Lord Harewood's estate. Originally known in the very early days as the Sunningdale of the North, the course has tight fairways cut out through a profusion of heather, gorse and shrubs. It is plentifully and cunningly bunkered and has large undulating and interesting greens. The 11th can be listed as one of the best par 3's in the country. It is an island green surrounded by hazards and it is essential to hit the sloping putting surface... Richard Finch, who won the NZ Open in 2007 when it was first played at The Hills was crowned Yorkshire Amateur Champion at Alwoodley in 2001. The course was also used for Regional Qualifying for this years Open.
I thought I was going okay having reached the turn in a 1 under score of 35. However, 2 loose tee shots on the back 9 resulted in 2 lost balls and back to back 7's on my card - ouch! I finished with a 79 but thoroughly enjoyed testing my skills against MacKenzie.
21 Sept Today I played the first course that was designed by the great Dr Alister MacKenzie, The Alwoodley Golf Club. Founded in 1907, Alwoodley forms part of the famous stretch of golfing territory on the northern fringe of Leeds. The course covers 115 acres of acidic heathland over a part of Lord Harewood's estate. Originally known in the very early days as the Sunningdale of the North, the course has tight fairways cut out through a profusion of heather, gorse and shrubs. It is plentifully and cunningly bunkered and has large undulating and interesting greens. The 11th can be listed as one of the best par 3's in the country. It is an island green surrounded by hazards and it is essential to hit the sloping putting surface... Richard Finch, who won the NZ Open in 2007 when it was first played at The Hills was crowned Yorkshire Amateur Champion at Alwoodley in 2001. The course was also used for Regional Qualifying for this years Open.
I thought I was going okay having reached the turn in a 1 under score of 35. However, 2 loose tee shots on the back 9 resulted in 2 lost balls and back to back 7's on my card - ouch! I finished with a 79 but thoroughly enjoyed testing my skills against MacKenzie.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
What's Happening Week of 21 September.........
Unashamedly our focus this week is very much on the Inter Club Finals at Russley on Sunday 27 September. With both our Woodward and Blank Teams in contention we would appreciate as much support at Russley as possible preferably in the Club colours of Red & Black. The Blank team are also asking where possible if members could commit to caddying for the team planning for both rounds during the day. If you are available to assist please speak with either me or Rod O'Brien.
The Blank Team for Sunday has been selected and is Peter Sim, Brent Ji, Brad Clark, Drew Butcher, Simon Yorke, Ian MacDonald, Karl Kitchingham and Rod O'Brien managed in the morning by Ken Fergus due to Alan Scott being absent for work reasons but he will be there for the expected afternoon game. Their match is against Waitikiri, who are seeking to regain the Woodward status they lost last year, hitting off 5 tee at 8.00am. On paper we have an exceptionally strong and experienced combination well capable of causing the upset and moving onto the Final in the afternoon.
Our Woodward Team is set to play the top qualifiers Kaiapoi from the first tee at 8.00am. Brian Ronan is still in the process of finalising his playing 6 from the wider squad and the team will be announced later in the week. Last year we played Kaiapoi in the semis on our way to victory and while both teams have a different make up we are confident that on the day we will turn around the section play result and prevail.
The green book tells me that Saturday is scheduled for the P.P.Hall Trophy a Pairs Aggregate Stableford. I suspect that given the recent spate of good scoring you will need to be in the region of 74/75 points to be competitive so get out there and be supportive to each other!! The round will also double as Round 14 of the Shootout; we are getting down to the business end of the competition so sharpen up your act if you still hold (like me) ambitions of qualifying and are not in the 19.
On a personal note my son's trip to Vietnam appears to be fun filled but with the odd hiccup (enough said). Rather than having to wait for postcards the Staff are running a blog to keep both parents and the school community updated. They have also posted photo's the techniques of which I am still struggling to master (well I need a camera first and don't say I can use my cellphone!!).
On the work front I have today settled the Collective Agreement for the Lyttelton Port Co and the Harbour Pilots thereby averting a threatened strike and in very late breaking news I am making a flying (literally) trip to Tauranga to undertake mediations on Tuesday & Wednesday. Unfortunately I do not see my way clear to packing my golf clubs (I am on the 6.45 am flight to Wellington) but I am sure the opportunities for coffee exploration abound. A full report will follow!!
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before!!
The Blank Team for Sunday has been selected and is Peter Sim, Brent Ji, Brad Clark, Drew Butcher, Simon Yorke, Ian MacDonald, Karl Kitchingham and Rod O'Brien managed in the morning by Ken Fergus due to Alan Scott being absent for work reasons but he will be there for the expected afternoon game. Their match is against Waitikiri, who are seeking to regain the Woodward status they lost last year, hitting off 5 tee at 8.00am. On paper we have an exceptionally strong and experienced combination well capable of causing the upset and moving onto the Final in the afternoon.
Our Woodward Team is set to play the top qualifiers Kaiapoi from the first tee at 8.00am. Brian Ronan is still in the process of finalising his playing 6 from the wider squad and the team will be announced later in the week. Last year we played Kaiapoi in the semis on our way to victory and while both teams have a different make up we are confident that on the day we will turn around the section play result and prevail.
The green book tells me that Saturday is scheduled for the P.P.Hall Trophy a Pairs Aggregate Stableford. I suspect that given the recent spate of good scoring you will need to be in the region of 74/75 points to be competitive so get out there and be supportive to each other!! The round will also double as Round 14 of the Shootout; we are getting down to the business end of the competition so sharpen up your act if you still hold (like me) ambitions of qualifying and are not in the 19.
On a personal note my son's trip to Vietnam appears to be fun filled but with the odd hiccup (enough said). Rather than having to wait for postcards the Staff are running a blog to keep both parents and the school community updated. They have also posted photo's the techniques of which I am still struggling to master (well I need a camera first and don't say I can use my cellphone!!).
On the work front I have today settled the Collective Agreement for the Lyttelton Port Co and the Harbour Pilots thereby averting a threatened strike and in very late breaking news I am making a flying (literally) trip to Tauranga to undertake mediations on Tuesday & Wednesday. Unfortunately I do not see my way clear to packing my golf clubs (I am on the 6.45 am flight to Wellington) but I am sure the opportunities for coffee exploration abound. A full report will follow!!
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before!!
Fathers and Sons Cup, Mothers & Daughters Bowl.....
Having been postponed from earlier in the year this popular event took place on Sunday under a clear sky but with a chilly wind blowing in from the north east making conditions perhaps slightly less than pleasant. A reasonably full field of 46 indicated that this may be a more convenient time of the year in which to hold the event.
It is always encouraging to see visitors from other clubs playing in this event and we welcomed amongst others Jan Osborn (Grant's Mum) from Cromwell, Hugh Blakie (Pam Tibble's Father) from Kaituna and Brendan Hicks now from Port Chalmers in Dunedin. It was also lovely to see three generations of the MacDonald family out on the course in various forms of transport - carts, strollers and walking. It will not be too many years before Mika and Annika are challenging Jack, Ian, Laura and Lillian for places in the playing team.
Scoring in the Fathers & Sons section was extremely close with four teams finishing the best ball stableford on 41 points meaning that a countback system was put in place - judges decision final and no correspondence entered into. Emerging as close winners were Stephen & Henry Boyd from in countback order John & Gareth Sanders, Michael & David Kerr and Steve & Brendan Hicks. Some great first nines were recorded with the MacDonalds recording 24 points and Bryan & Tom Pearson 22 with both pairs finally finishing on 40 points. Michael Kerr confided in me that this was the sixth time he and David have missed out either by way of countback or as runners up - I suspect 2010 may be their year!!
Janet and Jan Osborn put up a strong showing in the Mothers & Daughters Bowl to record 39 points and finish ahead of Lillian & Laura MacDonald in second. The Other Pairings category was won by Kim Sanders playing with his nephew Mark with an outstanding 44 points from Pam Tibble and her Dad, Hugh Blakie. Janet Osborn won the longest drive for the Daughters and Jan Osborn was the closest to the pin on 18 for three for the Mothers. Gareth Sanders won the longest drive for Sons (but was a substantial distance behind his Uncle) and Kim Sanders was closest to the pin on 18 for two.
All in all a very successful day with many thanks to The Frontrunner who sponsored the day (represented at the Club by Alistair Chapman & Laurie Blyth) and to Amanda and Andrew for their hard work in the background with the aftermatch catering.
It is always encouraging to see visitors from other clubs playing in this event and we welcomed amongst others Jan Osborn (Grant's Mum) from Cromwell, Hugh Blakie (Pam Tibble's Father) from Kaituna and Brendan Hicks now from Port Chalmers in Dunedin. It was also lovely to see three generations of the MacDonald family out on the course in various forms of transport - carts, strollers and walking. It will not be too many years before Mika and Annika are challenging Jack, Ian, Laura and Lillian for places in the playing team.
Scoring in the Fathers & Sons section was extremely close with four teams finishing the best ball stableford on 41 points meaning that a countback system was put in place - judges decision final and no correspondence entered into. Emerging as close winners were Stephen & Henry Boyd from in countback order John & Gareth Sanders, Michael & David Kerr and Steve & Brendan Hicks. Some great first nines were recorded with the MacDonalds recording 24 points and Bryan & Tom Pearson 22 with both pairs finally finishing on 40 points. Michael Kerr confided in me that this was the sixth time he and David have missed out either by way of countback or as runners up - I suspect 2010 may be their year!!
Janet and Jan Osborn put up a strong showing in the Mothers & Daughters Bowl to record 39 points and finish ahead of Lillian & Laura MacDonald in second. The Other Pairings category was won by Kim Sanders playing with his nephew Mark with an outstanding 44 points from Pam Tibble and her Dad, Hugh Blakie. Janet Osborn won the longest drive for the Daughters and Jan Osborn was the closest to the pin on 18 for three for the Mothers. Gareth Sanders won the longest drive for Sons (but was a substantial distance behind his Uncle) and Kim Sanders was closest to the pin on 18 for two.
All in all a very successful day with many thanks to The Frontrunner who sponsored the day (represented at the Club by Alistair Chapman & Laurie Blyth) and to Amanda and Andrew for their hard work in the background with the aftermatch catering.
President's Round 1.............
From Manager and guest reporter Dennis Doherty:
Sunday a clear sunny morning - but strong, cutting north easterly greeted us for our opening game of the season - a home game against Avondale - who have been a bit of a bogey side for us over the last couple of seasons. Large number of familiar faces in their team - including Jim Paulsen who must know every tuft of grass at Shirley - didn't bode well.
However, as I was playing number 14, it was looking good but tight.
Resounding 7/6 win by Marcus - who played well within himself - straight & true ( & a little disappointed that he had 3 putted 10 - to miss the chance of wrapping up his game on the far side of the road - he completed the deed with ease on the 12th). Taking inspiration from Marcus - after 3 silly shots on 12 - I won my game on the 13th.
Further good news was filtering through - David Young won his game 5/3 & a dramatic return to form by Jin Ho - shooting a net 66 to win 4/2.
It wasn't John MacVicar's day - going down to a wily old opponent - Warwick Gibson ( I don't think he has lost a game to us) -
So we are 4/1 up - couldn't lose - & I was thinking how good it would be to start with a win - Lots of drama to unfold - but to cut what could have been a very good tale to the chase - alas it was not to be. All the remaining 3 games were very tight - but Avondale held the advantage. Chris Brocket's game concluded on the 17th - now 4/2.Richard Pearse found the bunker on 18th - now 4/3
But there was still hope, Brian Tyro resplendent in his 2006 Club issue bright pink jumper - was seen to tee off first on the 18th tee ( he was 2 down at 13 ) - & had despite some putting woes recovered very well to be all square. Wayward tee shot to the right ( not unusual & not normally a concern) but trouble finding the ball increased the tension - all team members gathered around the 18th green. Ball eventually found but a difficult lie and his 2nd found the bunker - ( game still not over - difficult bunker shot played over next bunker onto green & below the hole). Jim Paulsen although too long with his second - he was on the green - but facing tricky downhill ( full of potential 3 putt - but Jim using all Shirley knowledge to the full - 2 putted for a par) - Brian had just missed his par putt - great finish to the match - Brian understandably disappointed - but shouldn't be - staunch fighting displayed.
Match result 4 All & 1 point each - we were so close.
Our next game is on 4 October - a very challenging match at Everglades. I have just been advised its a 9am tee off.
Sunday a clear sunny morning - but strong, cutting north easterly greeted us for our opening game of the season - a home game against Avondale - who have been a bit of a bogey side for us over the last couple of seasons. Large number of familiar faces in their team - including Jim Paulsen who must know every tuft of grass at Shirley - didn't bode well.
However, as I was playing number 14, it was looking good but tight.
Resounding 7/6 win by Marcus - who played well within himself - straight & true ( & a little disappointed that he had 3 putted 10 - to miss the chance of wrapping up his game on the far side of the road - he completed the deed with ease on the 12th). Taking inspiration from Marcus - after 3 silly shots on 12 - I won my game on the 13th.
Further good news was filtering through - David Young won his game 5/3 & a dramatic return to form by Jin Ho - shooting a net 66 to win 4/2.
It wasn't John MacVicar's day - going down to a wily old opponent - Warwick Gibson ( I don't think he has lost a game to us) -
So we are 4/1 up - couldn't lose - & I was thinking how good it would be to start with a win - Lots of drama to unfold - but to cut what could have been a very good tale to the chase - alas it was not to be. All the remaining 3 games were very tight - but Avondale held the advantage. Chris Brocket's game concluded on the 17th - now 4/2.Richard Pearse found the bunker on 18th - now 4/3
But there was still hope, Brian Tyro resplendent in his 2006 Club issue bright pink jumper - was seen to tee off first on the 18th tee ( he was 2 down at 13 ) - & had despite some putting woes recovered very well to be all square. Wayward tee shot to the right ( not unusual & not normally a concern) but trouble finding the ball increased the tension - all team members gathered around the 18th green. Ball eventually found but a difficult lie and his 2nd found the bunker - ( game still not over - difficult bunker shot played over next bunker onto green & below the hole). Jim Paulsen although too long with his second - he was on the green - but facing tricky downhill ( full of potential 3 putt - but Jim using all Shirley knowledge to the full - 2 putted for a par) - Brian had just missed his par putt - great finish to the match - Brian understandably disappointed - but shouldn't be - staunch fighting displayed.
Match result 4 All & 1 point each - we were so close.
Our next game is on 4 October - a very challenging match at Everglades. I have just been advised its a 9am tee off.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
The Week That Was...........
The Saturday competition was the second round of the War Memorial Cup which doubled as the qualifying for the Borthwick Vase. The winner over the two rounds was Joe Tiller with a nett total of 142. The qualifying score for the Vase was 146 on countback and the draw of those successfully through to the matchplay rounds will be posted in the Men's Lockeroom this week.
Putting the evils of last weeks Hanmer round behind him Marcus Annan shot a 69 to win the Intermediate grade from 4 tied on 72 by countback Peter Hollister, Niven Boyle, Lawrence Wong, & Michael Hadley. The Juniors saw Kevin McSoriley successful from Spencer Smith, Barry O'Neill & Stephen Boyd all on 69 in that order on countback.
Making a fleeting visit from Dunedin to play with Steve in the Fathers and Sons on Sunday Brendan Hicks was the leading Senior with a score of 69 from Rod O'Brien on 70 in second and Warren Jones third on 72 on countback from Paul Dunn. The Two's pool reached $250 and there were 13 winners each receiving $20.85. The Jackpot had grown to $245 and was struck by David Wallace (well done & no red card!).
Nearest the pin on 3 $45 Mark Fiebig and on 11 Dermot Martin also $45. Closest to the pin on 2 for 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was won by Aidan Millar while nearest to the pin for 2 on 18 for the Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher was won by Paul Dunn who knocked out my effort where my second, a lob wedge, had hit the flag and finished quite adjacent - an easy three. Nett Eagles had a new starting pool of $85 and was collected by Andre Kotzikas who birdied 18 with a shot.
Players who had represented the Club in Metro in 2009 had their annual wind up. Most valuable players were deemed to be Joe Mullins & Rod O'Brien who each were undefeated with 3 wins. On the day the winner of the stableford competition was Marcus Annan with 39 points from Rex Price and Rod O'Brien with 38. A pleasant lunch and drinks from the fines fund combined to wile away the afternoon in the Longroom in a most pleasant fashion. Many thanks to Amanda & Claire for their good works it was most appreciated.
Putting the evils of last weeks Hanmer round behind him Marcus Annan shot a 69 to win the Intermediate grade from 4 tied on 72 by countback Peter Hollister, Niven Boyle, Lawrence Wong, & Michael Hadley. The Juniors saw Kevin McSoriley successful from Spencer Smith, Barry O'Neill & Stephen Boyd all on 69 in that order on countback.
Making a fleeting visit from Dunedin to play with Steve in the Fathers and Sons on Sunday Brendan Hicks was the leading Senior with a score of 69 from Rod O'Brien on 70 in second and Warren Jones third on 72 on countback from Paul Dunn. The Two's pool reached $250 and there were 13 winners each receiving $20.85. The Jackpot had grown to $245 and was struck by David Wallace (well done & no red card!).
Nearest the pin on 3 $45 Mark Fiebig and on 11 Dermot Martin also $45. Closest to the pin on 2 for 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was won by Aidan Millar while nearest to the pin for 2 on 18 for the Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher was won by Paul Dunn who knocked out my effort where my second, a lob wedge, had hit the flag and finished quite adjacent - an easy three. Nett Eagles had a new starting pool of $85 and was collected by Andre Kotzikas who birdied 18 with a shot.
Players who had represented the Club in Metro in 2009 had their annual wind up. Most valuable players were deemed to be Joe Mullins & Rod O'Brien who each were undefeated with 3 wins. On the day the winner of the stableford competition was Marcus Annan with 39 points from Rex Price and Rod O'Brien with 38. A pleasant lunch and drinks from the fines fund combined to wile away the afternoon in the Longroom in a most pleasant fashion. Many thanks to Amanda & Claire for their good works it was most appreciated.
Around The Course.......
The astute amongst you will have noticed that the gum trees on 9/10 were removed during the week and the clean up of those areas will continue over the next few days. On Thursday and Friday of this week it is planned to remove the 3 Macrocarpas on 8. This will mean holes 8 & 9 will be closed for those two days (head from 7 green to 10 tee) but the work will be completed so as not to interfere with Saturday play.
In terms of the scheduling of on-going work the greens will be sanded and cored in the week of 9 November, this is somewhat earlier than normal and is a direct result of the fairways renovation programme. The by-product is that the greens should recover slightly quicker as there will be a full roster of staff on duty as opposed to the holiday period usually encountered.
The fairway renovation programme is set to commence in the week of 16 November. The holes effected are 7 - 10,13 &14. The holes will be progressively taken out of play until we revert to the short 9 hole course. More information on the programme will be made available nearer to the time. Also remember we have arranged for some discounted golf rounds to be available at Clearwater, Terrace Downs & Mapleham (Pegasus).
In terms of the scheduling of on-going work the greens will be sanded and cored in the week of 9 November, this is somewhat earlier than normal and is a direct result of the fairways renovation programme. The by-product is that the greens should recover slightly quicker as there will be a full roster of staff on duty as opposed to the holiday period usually encountered.
The fairway renovation programme is set to commence in the week of 16 November. The holes effected are 7 - 10,13 &14. The holes will be progressively taken out of play until we revert to the short 9 hole course. More information on the programme will be made available nearer to the time. Also remember we have arranged for some discounted golf rounds to be available at Clearwater, Terrace Downs & Mapleham (Pegasus).
Roving Reporter............
Charles Whitwham continues his journey:
Coming live to you from the living room of 21 Roundhill Mount, Cottingley, Nr Bingley, West Yorkshire!!
Sept 10th Today was the first round of the Hackers Cup and was played at Vale da Pinta, which is a well laid out and interesting course. It was designed by Ron Fream of Golfplan USA and was opened in 1992. The Bermuda grass fairways and Penn Cross Bent greens are protected by well positioned bunkers and two lakes which are in play on four holes. The undulating terrain is liberally dotted with carob, fig, almond and olive trees and the dogleg shape of all the par 4 and 5 holes puts an emphasis on the ability to drive with accuracy. I really enjoyed this course and managed 35pts to lie in 4th position. The leaders were on 39pts - Yorkshire bandits again!!
Sept 11th The final round of the XXIV Hacker Cup was played at the Penina Championship course. This is the Granddaddy of them all, the first course to be built in the Algarve. It was designed by the late, great Sir Henry Cotton and was completed in 1966. The course was laid out on ground that had been used for rice paddy fields, but with the laying of over 400,000 trees, countless bunkers and several lakes, the result after 43 years is that the towering pines and massive eucalyptus give the course a character that remains entirely on its own. It has hosted the Portuguese Open 10 times, the last being in 2006. My attempt to become the first overseas winner of the Hacker Cup faltered as my swing deserted me and I could only manage a paltry 28pts. Mark Elsworth, with 40pts to go with his first round 39pts was a clear winner.
It was interesting to listen to the tour members talk about the state of golf in the UK. They are faced with the same problems of falling membership, declining green fee revenue and reduced takings over the bar. One club has voted to allow jeans to be worn in the clubhouse, but not on the course, in the bizarre hope that it will increase takings over the bar. This has had the result of dividing the club into those in favour and those not, with those not calling an Extraordinary General Meeting to try and have the decision overturned - they lost. These members are now voting with their wallets and not staying for the usual 19th hole drinks!!
Coming live to you from the living room of 21 Roundhill Mount, Cottingley, Nr Bingley, West Yorkshire!!
Sept 10th Today was the first round of the Hackers Cup and was played at Vale da Pinta, which is a well laid out and interesting course. It was designed by Ron Fream of Golfplan USA and was opened in 1992. The Bermuda grass fairways and Penn Cross Bent greens are protected by well positioned bunkers and two lakes which are in play on four holes. The undulating terrain is liberally dotted with carob, fig, almond and olive trees and the dogleg shape of all the par 4 and 5 holes puts an emphasis on the ability to drive with accuracy. I really enjoyed this course and managed 35pts to lie in 4th position. The leaders were on 39pts - Yorkshire bandits again!!
Sept 11th The final round of the XXIV Hacker Cup was played at the Penina Championship course. This is the Granddaddy of them all, the first course to be built in the Algarve. It was designed by the late, great Sir Henry Cotton and was completed in 1966. The course was laid out on ground that had been used for rice paddy fields, but with the laying of over 400,000 trees, countless bunkers and several lakes, the result after 43 years is that the towering pines and massive eucalyptus give the course a character that remains entirely on its own. It has hosted the Portuguese Open 10 times, the last being in 2006. My attempt to become the first overseas winner of the Hacker Cup faltered as my swing deserted me and I could only manage a paltry 28pts. Mark Elsworth, with 40pts to go with his first round 39pts was a clear winner.
It was interesting to listen to the tour members talk about the state of golf in the UK. They are faced with the same problems of falling membership, declining green fee revenue and reduced takings over the bar. One club has voted to allow jeans to be worn in the clubhouse, but not on the course, in the bizarre hope that it will increase takings over the bar. This has had the result of dividing the club into those in favour and those not, with those not calling an Extraordinary General Meeting to try and have the decision overturned - they lost. These members are now voting with their wallets and not staying for the usual 19th hole drinks!!
Monday, September 14, 2009
What's Happening Week of 14 September.....
I think it is time for you to get out your dairies and start entering a few dates as the golfing programme steps up a gear. On a personal note I am in Christchurch all week with a full schedule of mediations, my son departs on his school trip on Tuesday morning and the Mens Committee meets on Wednesday so I should have enough to be going on with in the meantime!
Saturday sees the second round of the War Memorial Cup and Borthwick Vase Qualifying both Stroke Nett events. In the Vase competition the best 8 nett scores qualify for matchplay on handicap in what is always a very closely contested knockout. The Metropolitan team also graces the fairways of Shirley in their end of year get to together so it may pay to steer clear of the Sir Bob Charles Longroom on Saturday afternoon. Hopefully I will be in a condition to do the announcements at the end of play.
Fathers & Sons together with Mothers & Daughters Bowl is featured on Sunday with tee off from No.1 tee at 12.00 noon onwards in a four-ball best ball stableford. The entry fee is $20 per pair and includes a meal after the golf, entries are being taken at the pro shop only one of the pairing needs be a member and there is an "other pairings" category. Sunday also sees the first round of the President's Grade competition with us being drawn against Avondale at home. Good luck to Dennis Doherty and the team, no doubt reports will follow in due course.
As mentioned last week we have two teams qualified for the Finals Day of Inter Club set down for Sunday 27 September at Russley. Our Woodward Cup Team plays Kaiapoi while our Blank Team plays Waitikiri so please can we have a huge turn out of Club support for our two teams. So far this season our Woody boys have been well supported with caddys and club members and I know it means a lot to the team and as individuals to know the Club is fully in behind them.
The next Mixed match is the Hill Skinner Cup for Husbands & Wives on Sunday 1 November again for this competition only one of the pairing needs be a member to qualify and there will be an "other pairings" section. For those of you who wish to play some more mixed golf before then our annual match against the Timaru Golf Club is scheduled for 11 October 2009 at home so if you played last year or wish to play please see me as soon as possible.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Saturday sees the second round of the War Memorial Cup and Borthwick Vase Qualifying both Stroke Nett events. In the Vase competition the best 8 nett scores qualify for matchplay on handicap in what is always a very closely contested knockout. The Metropolitan team also graces the fairways of Shirley in their end of year get to together so it may pay to steer clear of the Sir Bob Charles Longroom on Saturday afternoon. Hopefully I will be in a condition to do the announcements at the end of play.
Fathers & Sons together with Mothers & Daughters Bowl is featured on Sunday with tee off from No.1 tee at 12.00 noon onwards in a four-ball best ball stableford. The entry fee is $20 per pair and includes a meal after the golf, entries are being taken at the pro shop only one of the pairing needs be a member and there is an "other pairings" category. Sunday also sees the first round of the President's Grade competition with us being drawn against Avondale at home. Good luck to Dennis Doherty and the team, no doubt reports will follow in due course.
As mentioned last week we have two teams qualified for the Finals Day of Inter Club set down for Sunday 27 September at Russley. Our Woodward Cup Team plays Kaiapoi while our Blank Team plays Waitikiri so please can we have a huge turn out of Club support for our two teams. So far this season our Woody boys have been well supported with caddys and club members and I know it means a lot to the team and as individuals to know the Club is fully in behind them.
The next Mixed match is the Hill Skinner Cup for Husbands & Wives on Sunday 1 November again for this competition only one of the pairing needs be a member to qualify and there will be an "other pairings" section. For those of you who wish to play some more mixed golf before then our annual match against the Timaru Golf Club is scheduled for 11 October 2009 at home so if you played last year or wish to play please see me as soon as possible.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Around the Course..........
Mark Lawson reported to the Board on Wednesday of last week and we are now moving into an important preparation phase prior to two Open tournaments in October followed by the coring of the greens in early November and the second installment of the fairway renovation programme following immediately thereafter.
The Board resolved to move, during the renovation programme, to a nine hole course to be played twice first from the white and then from the blue tees. The layout will be 1-4, 12, & 15-18; holes 5 & 6 will be rested to enable the completion of further work on the green surrounds and a final reseeding and over sowing of the remaining bare patches. In preparation for the renovation programme the removal of the designated trees on 8 & 9/10 will be completed within the next few weeks.
As part of the ongoing work around the course at the request of the Women's Committee there will be extra attention paid to the formation and maintenance of the "Red Tees" on the basis that they will in all likelihood become a more integral part of the playing schedule both in Winter and with nine hole memberships.
Mark reported that the mounding has seen significant growth but this is with the "rye grass" strain and as the temperatures increase this will burn of and be replaced by the hardier strains that are already sprouting underneath. The mounding project has been a great success and we look forward to additional formations in the months ahead.
The Board resolved to move, during the renovation programme, to a nine hole course to be played twice first from the white and then from the blue tees. The layout will be 1-4, 12, & 15-18; holes 5 & 6 will be rested to enable the completion of further work on the green surrounds and a final reseeding and over sowing of the remaining bare patches. In preparation for the renovation programme the removal of the designated trees on 8 & 9/10 will be completed within the next few weeks.
As part of the ongoing work around the course at the request of the Women's Committee there will be extra attention paid to the formation and maintenance of the "Red Tees" on the basis that they will in all likelihood become a more integral part of the playing schedule both in Winter and with nine hole memberships.
Mark reported that the mounding has seen significant growth but this is with the "rye grass" strain and as the temperatures increase this will burn of and be replaced by the hardier strains that are already sprouting underneath. The mounding project has been a great success and we look forward to additional formations in the months ahead.
The Islington Cup........
Sunday dawned fine and clear for the next round of the Mixed Competition, the Islington Cup, sponsored by Little India Bistro & Tandoor represented at the Club by Sukhi Gill and Jose Pallippat. The Cup was donated by the then Governor General Lord Islington in 1911 and was originally competed for in a Mixed Foursomes format. The first winners of the trophy were MH Godby & Miss Symes but in 1980 the competition was changed to its current form of Teams Best Ball Nett.
Half of last year's successful combination Murray & Lorriane Smith were in attendance as part of the field of 44 but in their words they had been "dumped" by their playing partners Joe & Sue Mullins who were unavailable. Instead Murray & Lorraine buddied up with Alan & Lorraine Woodfield which proved an inspired choice as they returned a score of 57 to retain the Cup. In second on 59 were Peter & Robin Shepperd and Rob & Jocelyn Davidson from Helen & Chris Richmond and Andrew & Robyn Gillespie on 60 by countback from Bryan & Suzanne Graham and Ian & Biddy Satherwaite.
Andrew Gillespie won the prize for closest to the pin on 18 for two for men and Margaret Trowsdale won the women's prize for three. Bruce Taylor had the only two of the day!A buffet meal of cold roast beef (lovely and rare) and hot ham accompanied by a choice of salads with potatoes was served in the Common Room followed by a cheese board. The vista out over the course as the sun set was simply spectacular and the perfect end to a wonderful day of golf, food, wine and friendship.
Half of last year's successful combination Murray & Lorriane Smith were in attendance as part of the field of 44 but in their words they had been "dumped" by their playing partners Joe & Sue Mullins who were unavailable. Instead Murray & Lorraine buddied up with Alan & Lorraine Woodfield which proved an inspired choice as they returned a score of 57 to retain the Cup. In second on 59 were Peter & Robin Shepperd and Rob & Jocelyn Davidson from Helen & Chris Richmond and Andrew & Robyn Gillespie on 60 by countback from Bryan & Suzanne Graham and Ian & Biddy Satherwaite.
Andrew Gillespie won the prize for closest to the pin on 18 for two for men and Margaret Trowsdale won the women's prize for three. Bruce Taylor had the only two of the day!A buffet meal of cold roast beef (lovely and rare) and hot ham accompanied by a choice of salads with potatoes was served in the Common Room followed by a cheese board. The vista out over the course as the sun set was simply spectacular and the perfect end to a wonderful day of golf, food, wine and friendship.
The Week That Was.........
Saturday saw a Stroke Nett Competition being the first round of the War Memorial Cup and the first qualifying round for the Borthwick Vase. The vein of good scoring continued across all the three grades. In the Juniors home at the head of the field was Russell Standage with a 69 from three others Peter Wardell, Jim Glass & Chris Abbott all on 70 by countback in that order.
Showing a continuing return to good form Brian Nixey was the leading Intermediate with a 68 from Richard Blunt on 69 and then on 70 by countback again David Wallace, Andrew Topp & David Hicks. Not to be out done the Joe Tiller was the best Senior on 69 from three others on 71 in order once more by countback Tony Park, Philip Hong, & Ray Barakauskas.
There were only 7 two's so the lucky winners shared the pool of $210 at $30 each. Karl Kitchingham was in the money with closest to the pin on 3 for $40 while Richard Peate was closest on 11 - note that neither made 2 or alternatively the did not put their money in - you decide!! The jackpot was not struck $160 carries forward.Nearest the pin on 2 for 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Henry Boyd while the Benjarong Thai Cuisine sponsored prize on 18 was won by Bruce Taylor.
Nett Eagles had grown to a pool of $160 and hole 5 was drawn and there were 3 lucky recipients Keith Hanham, David Youn and Paul Dunn. For the record Paul hit the green in two and sunk the putt for a true eagle on a hole where he does not get a shot. Good golf Paul!!
Showing a continuing return to good form Brian Nixey was the leading Intermediate with a 68 from Richard Blunt on 69 and then on 70 by countback again David Wallace, Andrew Topp & David Hicks. Not to be out done the Joe Tiller was the best Senior on 69 from three others on 71 in order once more by countback Tony Park, Philip Hong, & Ray Barakauskas.
There were only 7 two's so the lucky winners shared the pool of $210 at $30 each. Karl Kitchingham was in the money with closest to the pin on 3 for $40 while Richard Peate was closest on 11 - note that neither made 2 or alternatively the did not put their money in - you decide!! The jackpot was not struck $160 carries forward.Nearest the pin on 2 for 2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Henry Boyd while the Benjarong Thai Cuisine sponsored prize on 18 was won by Bruce Taylor.
Nett Eagles had grown to a pool of $160 and hole 5 was drawn and there were 3 lucky recipients Keith Hanham, David Youn and Paul Dunn. For the record Paul hit the green in two and sunk the putt for a true eagle on a hole where he does not get a shot. Good golf Paul!!
The Hanmer Experience..........
What happens on tour stays on tour?? Apparently not!! I, through extensive investigative research have managed to uncover the true happenings of the Hanmer Experience - actually it was not that difficult as everyone I spoke to was willing to "spill the beans" to a greater or lesser degree.
It came as a sad revelation that only one of the ten Christchurch members present featured in the prize list and that was John "JD" Dickson who had a two. Some records were set - on Saturday morning Marcus Annan had officially his worst round of golf with a 105 (a nett 92) narrowly finishing in front of Paul "Special' Needs. Special recorded the weekend high round for the Christchurch members with a 107 including 3 over the fence out of bounds on 17 in the Saturday morning round.
The honour of the Club was upheld by Graham Clarke who had his best ever round of a nett 64 on the Saturday morning perhaps explained by the fact he was the only person in the team not to play the practice round on Friday. Subsequent rounds of 71 & 70 still were not good enough to get to the winners circle but well played Graham in any event.
The weekend had its highlights socially; in regards the Friday BBQ discuss with Marcus the merits of travelling across town for the "deal of the week" only to find it was the same price as on your side of the city! Ask Special where he spent Saturday night after he came to the conclusion at 2am he had drunk too much to find his way home and why at one stage he could not find the golf course to be observed by the party taking instructions via cell phone at a distance of only 20 metres away.
One must also question the wisdom of Special in making the decision to stay another night on Sunday when as a result he felt distinctly below par on Monday morning and by lunch time and the debrief at Pukeko Junction still had not had anything to eat! These adventures apart I understand a good time was had by all notwithstanding Ken Fergus is still trying to comprehend how he got talked into playing 54 holes.
It came as a sad revelation that only one of the ten Christchurch members present featured in the prize list and that was John "JD" Dickson who had a two. Some records were set - on Saturday morning Marcus Annan had officially his worst round of golf with a 105 (a nett 92) narrowly finishing in front of Paul "Special' Needs. Special recorded the weekend high round for the Christchurch members with a 107 including 3 over the fence out of bounds on 17 in the Saturday morning round.
The honour of the Club was upheld by Graham Clarke who had his best ever round of a nett 64 on the Saturday morning perhaps explained by the fact he was the only person in the team not to play the practice round on Friday. Subsequent rounds of 71 & 70 still were not good enough to get to the winners circle but well played Graham in any event.
The weekend had its highlights socially; in regards the Friday BBQ discuss with Marcus the merits of travelling across town for the "deal of the week" only to find it was the same price as on your side of the city! Ask Special where he spent Saturday night after he came to the conclusion at 2am he had drunk too much to find his way home and why at one stage he could not find the golf course to be observed by the party taking instructions via cell phone at a distance of only 20 metres away.
One must also question the wisdom of Special in making the decision to stay another night on Sunday when as a result he felt distinctly below par on Monday morning and by lunch time and the debrief at Pukeko Junction still had not had anything to eat! These adventures apart I understand a good time was had by all notwithstanding Ken Fergus is still trying to comprehend how he got talked into playing 54 holes.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Cafe of the Month............
The Kosher Kitchen is a relatively new cafe/delicatessen situated in Tuam Street between High and Madras Streets (for those of you who are geographically challenged that's right next to Poplar Lane or just along from the Atami Bathhouse).
The cafe has a nice feel to it with the black & white tiles complimented by red furniture in the form of tub chairs, a couch and some stools along a bar at the shop front. Without having been to New York it is as I would imagine a lot cafes would look like there - at least they do in the movies and on TV. As indicated by its name the cafe has food of a Jewish flavour so go being willing to experiment a little.
The service is good but can sometimes be a little slow as they strive to have absolutely everything perfect especially the coffee. If you are looking for something a slightly different this could well be the place for you!! You may also spot some pictures of my son in their advertising!!
The cafe has a nice feel to it with the black & white tiles complimented by red furniture in the form of tub chairs, a couch and some stools along a bar at the shop front. Without having been to New York it is as I would imagine a lot cafes would look like there - at least they do in the movies and on TV. As indicated by its name the cafe has food of a Jewish flavour so go being willing to experiment a little.
The service is good but can sometimes be a little slow as they strive to have absolutely everything perfect especially the coffee. If you are looking for something a slightly different this could well be the place for you!! You may also spot some pictures of my son in their advertising!!
Green Thai Curry Prawns..............
This is an adaptation of a Phillip Kraal recipe he used at a brunch for a family friend and in response to requests following "my at home" it is now reproduced:
Ingredients
Raw Prawn Meat – either with tails on or off (whichever is the cheapest) and however many you want to eat or can afford (this is a great dish when prawn meat is on special).
Butter – a couple of knobs
Ground Coriander – about 2 teaspoons (give or take depending on taste)
Fresh Ginger – a solid piece grated, again more or less depending on taste (it doesn’t need to be too fine so just as it comes no need to go overboard)
Coconut Milk – 1 can (you can use more or less if you want dependant on how many you are doing & if you are using skewers)
Green Thai Curry Paste – about a tablespoon to a tablespoon and a half depending on your own taste
Method
Over a moderate heat melt the butter in a fry pan and lightly cook the prawn meat until it just begins to change colour – do not over cook. It is better to do the prawn meat in small batches so as not to have them stew and it provides better control for making sure some do not get over cooked. Drain and place to one side.
In the same pan reduce heat to low and add the other ingredients while stirring with the coconut milk being the last in and gently heat continuing to stir until the sauce is reasonably smooth and mixed with the paste and coriander dissolved.
Now you can either skewer the prawn meat or alternatively have it free flow in the sauce. Clearly for finger food skewers are better but if you are using it for an entrée over rice and you don’t want to be bothered with threading them free flow are fine but again skewers can provide a good look to the food on a plate and you retain portion control.
Place the prawns in an oven proof dish and cover with the sauce. Place dish in a preheated oven (about 180) to finish – the prawn meat should change colour but again do not over cook and do not boil the sauce (just below simmering is good) takes about 5-10 minutes.
Either serve on skewers as finger food or over your favourite rice as an entrée.
As always all care and no responsibility taken for this recipe.
Ingredients
Raw Prawn Meat – either with tails on or off (whichever is the cheapest) and however many you want to eat or can afford (this is a great dish when prawn meat is on special).
Butter – a couple of knobs
Ground Coriander – about 2 teaspoons (give or take depending on taste)
Fresh Ginger – a solid piece grated, again more or less depending on taste (it doesn’t need to be too fine so just as it comes no need to go overboard)
Coconut Milk – 1 can (you can use more or less if you want dependant on how many you are doing & if you are using skewers)
Green Thai Curry Paste – about a tablespoon to a tablespoon and a half depending on your own taste
Method
Over a moderate heat melt the butter in a fry pan and lightly cook the prawn meat until it just begins to change colour – do not over cook. It is better to do the prawn meat in small batches so as not to have them stew and it provides better control for making sure some do not get over cooked. Drain and place to one side.
In the same pan reduce heat to low and add the other ingredients while stirring with the coconut milk being the last in and gently heat continuing to stir until the sauce is reasonably smooth and mixed with the paste and coriander dissolved.
Now you can either skewer the prawn meat or alternatively have it free flow in the sauce. Clearly for finger food skewers are better but if you are using it for an entrée over rice and you don’t want to be bothered with threading them free flow are fine but again skewers can provide a good look to the food on a plate and you retain portion control.
Place the prawns in an oven proof dish and cover with the sauce. Place dish in a preheated oven (about 180) to finish – the prawn meat should change colour but again do not over cook and do not boil the sauce (just below simmering is good) takes about 5-10 minutes.
Either serve on skewers as finger food or over your favourite rice as an entrée.
As always all care and no responsibility taken for this recipe.
Roving Reporter..............
Charles Whitwham continues his European Odyssey playing golf with family and friends in Lagos Portugal:
Sept 6: Played Minchinhampton with my brother Simon, 6 handicap and nephew Sam, 8 handicap. A very pleasant course with a few water features that come into play. On this occasion I managed to avoid them all. There was the usual Whitwham family rivalry when it comes to sporting matters and Simon held a 2 shot lead at the turn. However yours truly managed to cover the back 9 in par to be victorious by 2 shots and thus have bragging rights for at least the next 3 years.
I am currently in Lagos, western Algarve, with Simon and 10 of his friends. It is the 24th occasion of the Hackers Tour where 4 rounds of golf are played for various competitions with the last 2 rounds counting for the Hackers Cup. We have today played round 1 at Boa Vista, more about that later. Lagos (pronounced Lagosh) dates from the 15th Century and was a place from which many Portuguese explorers set sail. I had time on Monday to explore the old part of the town and it is quite beautiful with its narrow cobbled streets, many restaurants and shops.
Sept 8th: The Tour Opener was played at Boa Vista. With two distinctive sections the course offers a variety of holes commencing with the welcoming first hole, a meandering downhill par 4, bordered by beautiful sub-tropical landscaping leading to harmoniously designed properties. The signature hole on the outward nine is the stunning par 4 7th hole set against a glorious backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean with exhilarating panoramic views extending from Praia da Luz with the hills at Monchique creating a spectacular backdrop.
The competition was a singles stableford and I managed a 4th place on 36 points, shooting a 76 around the par 71 layout. The winner came in with a whopping 41 pts from a 16 handicap - a Yorkshire bandit!! The weather was hot and sunny.
Sept 9th: The second round of the tour was played at Palmares. The format was a fourball bestball stableford off 3/4 handicap and we were partnered with our room mates. At stake was the Nether Abbey Trophy, which no longer exists but is still played for! I am rooming with my brother so The Whitwhams were a force to be reckoned with. Palmares is billed as a showpiece to the imagination of Frank Pennink, one of the most prolific golf course designers in Portugal. The reputation of the course, a par 70, derives from its skillful use of two different kinds of landscape. After starting out on a difficult dogleg par 4 from a high tee, the golfer soon gets into the links which run behind Meia Praia, a great expanse of white sand and high dunes. At hole 6 the course turns back inland in the direction of the Clubhouse, and the players face the challenge of holes designed along curving valleys bordered by pine trees - a perfect mix of links and inland golf. The course was to the Whitwhams liking and we bolted home to win with 44pts, yours truly having a stunning round of 69!
Sept 6: Played Minchinhampton with my brother Simon, 6 handicap and nephew Sam, 8 handicap. A very pleasant course with a few water features that come into play. On this occasion I managed to avoid them all. There was the usual Whitwham family rivalry when it comes to sporting matters and Simon held a 2 shot lead at the turn. However yours truly managed to cover the back 9 in par to be victorious by 2 shots and thus have bragging rights for at least the next 3 years.
I am currently in Lagos, western Algarve, with Simon and 10 of his friends. It is the 24th occasion of the Hackers Tour where 4 rounds of golf are played for various competitions with the last 2 rounds counting for the Hackers Cup. We have today played round 1 at Boa Vista, more about that later. Lagos (pronounced Lagosh) dates from the 15th Century and was a place from which many Portuguese explorers set sail. I had time on Monday to explore the old part of the town and it is quite beautiful with its narrow cobbled streets, many restaurants and shops.
Sept 8th: The Tour Opener was played at Boa Vista. With two distinctive sections the course offers a variety of holes commencing with the welcoming first hole, a meandering downhill par 4, bordered by beautiful sub-tropical landscaping leading to harmoniously designed properties. The signature hole on the outward nine is the stunning par 4 7th hole set against a glorious backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean with exhilarating panoramic views extending from Praia da Luz with the hills at Monchique creating a spectacular backdrop.
The competition was a singles stableford and I managed a 4th place on 36 points, shooting a 76 around the par 71 layout. The winner came in with a whopping 41 pts from a 16 handicap - a Yorkshire bandit!! The weather was hot and sunny.
Sept 9th: The second round of the tour was played at Palmares. The format was a fourball bestball stableford off 3/4 handicap and we were partnered with our room mates. At stake was the Nether Abbey Trophy, which no longer exists but is still played for! I am rooming with my brother so The Whitwhams were a force to be reckoned with. Palmares is billed as a showpiece to the imagination of Frank Pennink, one of the most prolific golf course designers in Portugal. The reputation of the course, a par 70, derives from its skillful use of two different kinds of landscape. After starting out on a difficult dogleg par 4 from a high tee, the golfer soon gets into the links which run behind Meia Praia, a great expanse of white sand and high dunes. At hole 6 the course turns back inland in the direction of the Clubhouse, and the players face the challenge of holes designed along curving valleys bordered by pine trees - a perfect mix of links and inland golf. The course was to the Whitwhams liking and we bolted home to win with 44pts, yours truly having a stunning round of 69!
Thought For The Week........
If you think nobody cares whether you're dead or alive, try missing a couple of mortgage payments!!
Monday, September 7, 2009
What's Happening Week of 7 September.....
Once again this Saturday I have drawn the short straw as the early starter so the morning players had better all be on time to the first tee at least. Competition of the day is the first round for the War Memorial Cup and qualifying for the Borthwick Vase a nett stroke round with three grades. The second round for both competitions is on the following Saturday 19 September and the best 8 nett scores qualify to play-off by match play on handicap.
Sunday sees the next round of the Mixed competition with the Islington Cup as the trophy with teams best ball stroke net being the match of the day with a multiple tee start 1 & 16 from 12.30. The event is sponsored by Little India Bistro & Tandoor so we are expecting a good turn out. The entry fee is $22.50 which includes the aftermatch dinner so get your names down as soon as possible.
There a strong contingent of Club members heading up to the Hanmer Open over the weekend where there will be at least three rounds of golf - so play well and do not over indulge as there maybe danger rather than safety in numbers! The Board meets on Wednesday and there looks to be a number of interesting items on the agenda, I will report further on what I am able next week.
On a personal note my son had his seventeenth birthday on Monday 7 September, his College Ball in on Saturday and the following week he heads away to Vietnam on a school trip. Given this follows trips to Wellington for Model United Nations and Dunedin for Big Sing, needless to say in the interim I remain poverty stricken!
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before!
Sunday sees the next round of the Mixed competition with the Islington Cup as the trophy with teams best ball stroke net being the match of the day with a multiple tee start 1 & 16 from 12.30. The event is sponsored by Little India Bistro & Tandoor so we are expecting a good turn out. The entry fee is $22.50 which includes the aftermatch dinner so get your names down as soon as possible.
There a strong contingent of Club members heading up to the Hanmer Open over the weekend where there will be at least three rounds of golf - so play well and do not over indulge as there maybe danger rather than safety in numbers! The Board meets on Wednesday and there looks to be a number of interesting items on the agenda, I will report further on what I am able next week.
On a personal note my son had his seventeenth birthday on Monday 7 September, his College Ball in on Saturday and the following week he heads away to Vietnam on a school trip. Given this follows trips to Wellington for Model United Nations and Dunedin for Big Sing, needless to say in the interim I remain poverty stricken!
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before!
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Woodward Report........
In a break with tradition I am filing a separate report for the Woodward Team partly in recognition of their sterling efforts on Sunday and over the last three weeks. The 2009 season has not been an easy one for a largely untested team and there have been some setbacks but on Sunday the mission was clear put pressure on the opposition teams by winning both games - then come what may!
The morning round saw us drawn against an inconsistent Waimairi Team but one that was still in title contention. This was simply a must win, and each and every member stood up to the plate! Early victories were recorded by Peter McDougall at 2 & Adian Millar at 5. Liam Cumberpatch closed his match out at the 17th and while Nathan Gilbert was required to go down 18 he held on for another win. While this secured the rubber every remaining point was of crucial importance should we have to enter a countback race later in the day.
In the other two key matches John (JB) Sanders, at 3, was drawn against the experienced Davitt Lavery and after being two down early, he picked up Dennis Doherty as a caddy, and then dropped to four down with not too many holes to play. In a never say die exhibition JB went down the 18th (the 10th) a par three, after winning 17, one down and proceeded to make a birdie two to secure a hard earned half.
At the top of the order Tom Turner was matched against the well performed Aaron Forsyth and after falling 2 down struggled back to square before a bad hole, a missed putt and a birdie to the opposition saw him three down with five to play. Coincidentally at that time Tom's biggest supporters, his parents John & Diana, arrived and they witnessed a resurgence in Tom's play. To put the game to rest Tom birdied home for the next 5 holes to go from 3 down to 2 up and record an important win. What impressed was the manner of his play, there were no chip-ins & no long putts but just laser accuracy to record a round of 67 - including that one very ugly double. All in all a 5 1/2 - 1/2 victory to the team.
The moral of the story as shown by JB and Tom is that when you are in Club colours "Its never over till its over and you never lie down and roll over. (Ok, I know it's a mixed metaphor but you get the idea - Ed)
The afternoon round was scheduled against traditional rivals Russley who were one of the pre-season favourites and potentially everything still hung in the balance. After a few upsets in the morning rounds a win would definitely put us in the finals as would a half but a loss would take our destiny from our own hands and we would be dependant on other matches and possibly a countback on games. From the outset it was clear that the overall result would be hotly contested as reports showed an ebb and flow through the games as the round progressed.
Since moving to the 6 position Nathan Gilbert has been a rock and although nominally in charge the whole way once again he was required to play the full 18 before he put our first win on the board 1 up. For the second time in the day JB was in a tight match but proving experience is gold he held his nerve playing 18 (another par 3) one up to birdie once again and secure a two up victory.
Narrow losses were recorded by Aidan Millar who played the 18th all square but lost the hole to go down by one and Liam Cumberpatch who only succumbed on 17 in another tight match. Earlier Pete MacDougall had gone down to Owen Burgess in a game he will want to quickly put behind him especially as it was his 50th Woodward Cup match for the club. Once again the focus was on the top position as we trailed by 3-2.
Tom Turner had drawn Drew Atkins and over the first few holes moved to an early 2 up lead before the match tightened and by 11 he had slipped to being 1 down. A birdie 2 on the 12th hole (13 on the card) moved him back to square with the next hole being halved. Tom hitting first played conservative golf taking 3 iron off the tee on 14 (15 on the card) and smoked it way down the fairway to place pressure on his opponent who carved his driver high right into the trees and then had to hack it out, 1 up. On the next a short par 4 Tom took driver and found the green and while Drew made par from nowhere he had to concede the eagle putt for Tom to go 2 up with three to play.
An errant drive from Tom on the next, a dog legged par 5, resulted in a loss and the match falling to one up with two to play. Playing the 18th as hole 17 Drew again sliced his drive and Tom calmly stood up and absolutely killed his driver down the centre right for a wedge in. Bunker trouble for Drew meant Tom had two putts for the win and put his first close enough for it to be conceded and a well deserved 2 up win and importantly a half on the match.
It was a hard day at the office but the team (and its supporters especially Mitchell Vincent and Scotty Adams) came through to make it to finals day at Russley on September 27 where we will play top qualifiers Kaiapoi. The semi will be a tough encounter but the team has shown great intestinal fortitude and self belief over the last few weeks and are in with a great chance of causing an upset. While this has been very much a team effort Tom Turner has grown as the competition has progressed both as captain and a player. In his first year at number one his 7 win 2 loss record speaks volumes of his commitment and example and in my view the best is still to come. Bring on the Finals!!
The morning round saw us drawn against an inconsistent Waimairi Team but one that was still in title contention. This was simply a must win, and each and every member stood up to the plate! Early victories were recorded by Peter McDougall at 2 & Adian Millar at 5. Liam Cumberpatch closed his match out at the 17th and while Nathan Gilbert was required to go down 18 he held on for another win. While this secured the rubber every remaining point was of crucial importance should we have to enter a countback race later in the day.
In the other two key matches John (JB) Sanders, at 3, was drawn against the experienced Davitt Lavery and after being two down early, he picked up Dennis Doherty as a caddy, and then dropped to four down with not too many holes to play. In a never say die exhibition JB went down the 18th (the 10th) a par three, after winning 17, one down and proceeded to make a birdie two to secure a hard earned half.
At the top of the order Tom Turner was matched against the well performed Aaron Forsyth and after falling 2 down struggled back to square before a bad hole, a missed putt and a birdie to the opposition saw him three down with five to play. Coincidentally at that time Tom's biggest supporters, his parents John & Diana, arrived and they witnessed a resurgence in Tom's play. To put the game to rest Tom birdied home for the next 5 holes to go from 3 down to 2 up and record an important win. What impressed was the manner of his play, there were no chip-ins & no long putts but just laser accuracy to record a round of 67 - including that one very ugly double. All in all a 5 1/2 - 1/2 victory to the team.
The moral of the story as shown by JB and Tom is that when you are in Club colours "Its never over till its over and you never lie down and roll over. (Ok, I know it's a mixed metaphor but you get the idea - Ed)
The afternoon round was scheduled against traditional rivals Russley who were one of the pre-season favourites and potentially everything still hung in the balance. After a few upsets in the morning rounds a win would definitely put us in the finals as would a half but a loss would take our destiny from our own hands and we would be dependant on other matches and possibly a countback on games. From the outset it was clear that the overall result would be hotly contested as reports showed an ebb and flow through the games as the round progressed.
Since moving to the 6 position Nathan Gilbert has been a rock and although nominally in charge the whole way once again he was required to play the full 18 before he put our first win on the board 1 up. For the second time in the day JB was in a tight match but proving experience is gold he held his nerve playing 18 (another par 3) one up to birdie once again and secure a two up victory.
Narrow losses were recorded by Aidan Millar who played the 18th all square but lost the hole to go down by one and Liam Cumberpatch who only succumbed on 17 in another tight match. Earlier Pete MacDougall had gone down to Owen Burgess in a game he will want to quickly put behind him especially as it was his 50th Woodward Cup match for the club. Once again the focus was on the top position as we trailed by 3-2.
Tom Turner had drawn Drew Atkins and over the first few holes moved to an early 2 up lead before the match tightened and by 11 he had slipped to being 1 down. A birdie 2 on the 12th hole (13 on the card) moved him back to square with the next hole being halved. Tom hitting first played conservative golf taking 3 iron off the tee on 14 (15 on the card) and smoked it way down the fairway to place pressure on his opponent who carved his driver high right into the trees and then had to hack it out, 1 up. On the next a short par 4 Tom took driver and found the green and while Drew made par from nowhere he had to concede the eagle putt for Tom to go 2 up with three to play.
An errant drive from Tom on the next, a dog legged par 5, resulted in a loss and the match falling to one up with two to play. Playing the 18th as hole 17 Drew again sliced his drive and Tom calmly stood up and absolutely killed his driver down the centre right for a wedge in. Bunker trouble for Drew meant Tom had two putts for the win and put his first close enough for it to be conceded and a well deserved 2 up win and importantly a half on the match.
It was a hard day at the office but the team (and its supporters especially Mitchell Vincent and Scotty Adams) came through to make it to finals day at Russley on September 27 where we will play top qualifiers Kaiapoi. The semi will be a tough encounter but the team has shown great intestinal fortitude and self belief over the last few weeks and are in with a great chance of causing an upset. While this has been very much a team effort Tom Turner has grown as the competition has progressed both as captain and a player. In his first year at number one his 7 win 2 loss record speaks volumes of his commitment and example and in my view the best is still to come. Bring on the Finals!!
Blank & Simon Report............
Sunday was a big weekend for the Blank & Simon Teams both striving for results that would enable them to achieve their own goals.
Our young Simon Team were desperate to avoid the 'wooden spoon' and in a fine team effort they halved both their matches against Windsor and Waimairi Beach to move off the bottom of the table. Manager Rod Hayes reports that in morning round the "older" team members took charge and got the team home for the draw while in the afternoon round the win of Henry Pearson deserves special mention. Well done to the Simon Team for competing during every round and we look forward to this dedication bearing fruit in 2010.
The Blank Team has been hampered by selection unavailabilities but possibly for the first time this season they were able to field their strongest teams for both games. The combinations were well rewarded with two 6 - 2 victories against Harewood and Windsor which ensured they qualified for Finals Day. Congratulations to Rod O'Brien who once again secured two wins for the team and to the other players who played one or both rounds.
The efforts of Rod and Alan Scott have been recognised with deserved success but they face a big challenge when they meet hot favourites Waitikiri in the semis, however with players such as Drew Butcher, Simon Yorke, Brad Clark and Ian MacDonald beginning to hit form as well as Rod O'Brien an upset can not be ruled out!! Watch out for the Blank boys!
Our young Simon Team were desperate to avoid the 'wooden spoon' and in a fine team effort they halved both their matches against Windsor and Waimairi Beach to move off the bottom of the table. Manager Rod Hayes reports that in morning round the "older" team members took charge and got the team home for the draw while in the afternoon round the win of Henry Pearson deserves special mention. Well done to the Simon Team for competing during every round and we look forward to this dedication bearing fruit in 2010.
The Blank Team has been hampered by selection unavailabilities but possibly for the first time this season they were able to field their strongest teams for both games. The combinations were well rewarded with two 6 - 2 victories against Harewood and Windsor which ensured they qualified for Finals Day. Congratulations to Rod O'Brien who once again secured two wins for the team and to the other players who played one or both rounds.
The efforts of Rod and Alan Scott have been recognised with deserved success but they face a big challenge when they meet hot favourites Waitikiri in the semis, however with players such as Drew Butcher, Simon Yorke, Brad Clark and Ian MacDonald beginning to hit form as well as Rod O'Brien an upset can not be ruled out!! Watch out for the Blank boys!
Silver Fox Memorial Trophy
Sunday saw the playing of the Silver Fox Memorial Trophy in memory of Richard Mercer with a field of 24. The overall winner on countback was Brian Clelland from Bryan Graham both with 39 points. I understand Brian Clellend birdied 18 to snare 4 points and move into the tie which he eventually was deemed to have won. In a good day for the Graham's Suzanne won the Women's section with 33 points from Bev Manson in second.
In a side match for the Silver Fox Challenge Paul & Mark Dunn halved the match with Bryan Graham and David Robinson. It was great to see some out of town friends here for the day Leon Horn from Motueka, Chris & Lynley Hogan from Queenstown and Richard's son Curtis. From all reports the day was an outstanding success well done to the organisers and a fitting tribute for Richard.
In a side match for the Silver Fox Challenge Paul & Mark Dunn halved the match with Bryan Graham and David Robinson. It was great to see some out of town friends here for the day Leon Horn from Motueka, Chris & Lynley Hogan from Queenstown and Richard's son Curtis. From all reports the day was an outstanding success well done to the organisers and a fitting tribute for Richard.
It's All About Me......
I am in a position to confirm rumours that I did have a "significant" birthday last week and can now boast of having reached the milestone (millstone) of 50. I had hoped that this date, and day, may have slipped by unnoticed but it seems as though it was entered in a number of dairies as I was frequently reminded in the weeks and days immediately prior!! Needless to say a minor celebration took place which I survived and after nearly a week I am able to reflect being 50 is not as bad as I thought.
It may appear to some readers that I undertake most of my cognitive processes within the confines of Pak 'n' Save and indeed this has in itself given me pause for thought, but I digress, standing in the produce section I was pondering the decline of the humble parsnip. Why is it that the current consumer appears to hold the parsnip in such aversion such that its self space and quantity has diminished, its price correspondingly increased, it has disappeared from menus and is distainfully pushed to the side of their plates by my children (let's be honest my daughter won't even put it on hers!).
To my mind there are few, if any, vegetables that roast better than parsnips, mashed carrots and parsnips were a frequent visitor to my dinner plate as I was growing up and I am particularly fond of parsnip soup - I may lead a movement to bring back the parsnip!! I then got to thinking whatever happened to marrow - the bane of my childhood- it was the worst part of any roast meal and one which I have not inflicted on my children. Do people still grow let alone eat marrow (I trust not) and if so where are they?
Cogitating further I then undertook a bit of a reconnaissance to ascertain the whereabouts of those delicacies of youth (so said my mother) of white turnips, swedes, brussell sprouts, broad beans and cabbage simply for the joy of looking at them and then critically deciding that "No I didn't have to or want to purchase or eat you!!" and then being able to walk away without threats of dire punishment. To my mind the younger generation do not know how lucky they are with new "greens" such as zucchini and courgettes. My vegetable odyssey ended as I moved into the "aisle of savings" by the butchery trying to rationalise why a head of cauliflower costs twice as much as broccoli? (such a sad life for one so young!! - Ed).
It may appear to some readers that I undertake most of my cognitive processes within the confines of Pak 'n' Save and indeed this has in itself given me pause for thought, but I digress, standing in the produce section I was pondering the decline of the humble parsnip. Why is it that the current consumer appears to hold the parsnip in such aversion such that its self space and quantity has diminished, its price correspondingly increased, it has disappeared from menus and is distainfully pushed to the side of their plates by my children (let's be honest my daughter won't even put it on hers!).
To my mind there are few, if any, vegetables that roast better than parsnips, mashed carrots and parsnips were a frequent visitor to my dinner plate as I was growing up and I am particularly fond of parsnip soup - I may lead a movement to bring back the parsnip!! I then got to thinking whatever happened to marrow - the bane of my childhood- it was the worst part of any roast meal and one which I have not inflicted on my children. Do people still grow let alone eat marrow (I trust not) and if so where are they?
Cogitating further I then undertook a bit of a reconnaissance to ascertain the whereabouts of those delicacies of youth (so said my mother) of white turnips, swedes, brussell sprouts, broad beans and cabbage simply for the joy of looking at them and then critically deciding that "No I didn't have to or want to purchase or eat you!!" and then being able to walk away without threats of dire punishment. To my mind the younger generation do not know how lucky they are with new "greens" such as zucchini and courgettes. My vegetable odyssey ended as I moved into the "aisle of savings" by the butchery trying to rationalise why a head of cauliflower costs twice as much as broccoli? (such a sad life for one so young!! - Ed).
The Week That Was.......
Saturday clearly indicated Spring is in the air (shorts may soon be the attire for the legs of the Club Captain) but with a hint of times past by way of a late frost. In any event it was appropriate the conditions were clement because the first 9 holes were extremely slow!!
Again good scoring abounded throughout the 3 grades for the Stableford Competition. Winner of the Seniors by countback on 38 points was Mark Dunn fresh from his winter efforts on the football (soccer) field, Philip Hong was in second with Andrew Gillespie in third on 36. Making the best of the early conditions David Wallace returned 40 points to win the Intermediates on countback from the inform Alan Scott with Kerry Haycock making an unusual appearance in the lower grade third on 39. Warming up for the Presidents Grade competition Jin Ho Neoh had the best round of the day with 41 in the Juniors with a host of 40's on countback - Peter Wardell, Clifford Chan, & Graeme Thompson.
The Two's pool was worth $220 with 10 winners each getting $22, the Jackpot of $95 was not struck and carries forward. The Nett eagles Pool of $95 was not struck after hole 16 was drawn so it too will continue too grow. Nearest the pins on 3 & 11 were respectively pocketed by Tony Park and Ross Campbell $50 each while nearest the pin on 2 for 2, sponsored by Linden Leaves, was won by David Clarke, the Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher for nearest the pin on 18 for 2 was collected by Simon Yorke who stuck it in the hole!
Campbell Cup matches continued with Brian Ronan & Bentley Seeto being successful as were Ken Fergus and ASlan Masters. After a hard fought match BG and I lost $2 to Keith Love (who claimed to be sick and played in a cart) and his friend from Bridge Pa Tim Southward. Officially Keith has now been relieved of all duties in organising an away trip to Hawkes Bay - if lucky he may still be in the team.
Again good scoring abounded throughout the 3 grades for the Stableford Competition. Winner of the Seniors by countback on 38 points was Mark Dunn fresh from his winter efforts on the football (soccer) field, Philip Hong was in second with Andrew Gillespie in third on 36. Making the best of the early conditions David Wallace returned 40 points to win the Intermediates on countback from the inform Alan Scott with Kerry Haycock making an unusual appearance in the lower grade third on 39. Warming up for the Presidents Grade competition Jin Ho Neoh had the best round of the day with 41 in the Juniors with a host of 40's on countback - Peter Wardell, Clifford Chan, & Graeme Thompson.
The Two's pool was worth $220 with 10 winners each getting $22, the Jackpot of $95 was not struck and carries forward. The Nett eagles Pool of $95 was not struck after hole 16 was drawn so it too will continue too grow. Nearest the pins on 3 & 11 were respectively pocketed by Tony Park and Ross Campbell $50 each while nearest the pin on 2 for 2, sponsored by Linden Leaves, was won by David Clarke, the Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher for nearest the pin on 18 for 2 was collected by Simon Yorke who stuck it in the hole!
Campbell Cup matches continued with Brian Ronan & Bentley Seeto being successful as were Ken Fergus and ASlan Masters. After a hard fought match BG and I lost $2 to Keith Love (who claimed to be sick and played in a cart) and his friend from Bridge Pa Tim Southward. Officially Keith has now been relieved of all duties in organising an away trip to Hawkes Bay - if lucky he may still be in the team.
Odd Spots...........
For the record ET has phoned home, Mother is relieved but unsure how long renewed communication will last. The winner of the competition was Julie O'Neill who correctly identified the parties - the real question is what was Julie doing surfing the Internet at 10.08pm. The prize has been paid and Keith Love was a poor second!!
In unrelated matters, perhaps, it has come to our attention that former Senior Club Champion Michael Ronan shot a 2 over par 74 in qualifying for his Club Champs in Brisbane including a double up the last. The only difficulty with this scenario is Michael now with a handicap of 10 was playing in the Intermediates - Go Michael!!
Presidents Grade commences the 09/10 season on the 20 September 2009 with a match against Avondale at Shirley. The team is managed by Dennis Doherty who is always keen to maintain a wider training squad to ease selection difficulties over what is a very long season so if your slope index is 10.0 or above and you are interested speak directly to Dennis. For the record this is the only competition run by Canterbury Golf that currently contains an entry from all the Metropolitan Clubs.
One of the team highlights from the Woodward Cup round were the Russley supporters who thought our very own JD was Ian Dobson and JD being JD did nothing to dispel their error and simply played along. I'm not sure who should be more upset JD or Dobby!!
For the sake of completeness I note that August was a record month for the Blog with 43 separate items 8 more than the previous best. (I am not sure more is necessarily better - Ed).
In unrelated matters, perhaps, it has come to our attention that former Senior Club Champion Michael Ronan shot a 2 over par 74 in qualifying for his Club Champs in Brisbane including a double up the last. The only difficulty with this scenario is Michael now with a handicap of 10 was playing in the Intermediates - Go Michael!!
Presidents Grade commences the 09/10 season on the 20 September 2009 with a match against Avondale at Shirley. The team is managed by Dennis Doherty who is always keen to maintain a wider training squad to ease selection difficulties over what is a very long season so if your slope index is 10.0 or above and you are interested speak directly to Dennis. For the record this is the only competition run by Canterbury Golf that currently contains an entry from all the Metropolitan Clubs.
One of the team highlights from the Woodward Cup round were the Russley supporters who thought our very own JD was Ian Dobson and JD being JD did nothing to dispel their error and simply played along. I'm not sure who should be more upset JD or Dobby!!
For the sake of completeness I note that August was a record month for the Blog with 43 separate items 8 more than the previous best. (I am not sure more is necessarily better - Ed).
Roving Reporter Extraordinaire............
Many of you may have noticed the absence of a Yorkshire accent from the Clubhouse, that is because Charles Whitwham is overseas visiting family - initially it came as a shock to me that there were more "Whitwham's" as I had always thought Charles unique and arrived by some form of mystical reincarnation but apparently I was incorrect. Now touring parts of the UK and later Europe to date Charlie has filed two reports which subject to editing now appear.
Report 1: So here I am in London, staying with friends in Thames Ditton (yes, I still have people back in the UK who will put up with me!). It has been a glorious Bank Holiday Monday here with a temperature in the high 20's Celsius. We had a lovely boat trip on the Thames from Hampton Court, the home of Henry VIII, to Richmond. Some of the houses we passed were quite stunning with immaculately kept gardens and the obligatory large expensive looking boat berthed at the end of the garden.
I saw where the Royal Mid Surrey Golf Club is located in the Old Deer Park. I have played my first round on this trip at Silvermere Golf Club. This was yesterday (Sunday) after arriving in London at 6.30am after a 24 hr flight. Needless to say my swing was a little rusty and I got off to a shaky start. The fairways are quite tight and a few errant tee shots found me with unplayable lies and double bogeys ensued. I did play the back 9 a lot better until the last 2 holes. Both involve shots over water. The 17th is a 143yd par 3, all carry over water - took 5. The 18th is a short par 4 of 324yds but you have to put your tee shot in the correct position as the hole dog-legs right with the second shot over water to the green - took 6.
Report 2: 4th Sept - Played at Pyrford Golf Club today. Opened in 1993, this course is not long by modern standards, measuring 5,750 yards from the yellow tees. Yellow tees in the UK are the equivalent to our white tees. However water abounds everywhere, and I mean everywhere. The fairways are narrow and the bunkers are strategically placed. The water crosses the fairways just at the point where your drive would land so I had to plot my way around this course, One par 5 was played 3 iron, 9 iron, sand wedge. Pyrford is a very picturesque course being set in an area of outstanding natural beauty and wildlife with 23 acres of lakes. My ball visited some of these as I stumbled at the end of my round, dropping 5 shots on the last 3 holes!
The next round will be at the Avening course of Minchinhampton Golf Club, where my younger brother Simon is currently Vice Captain. And then a week in The Algarve, Portugal, for some more golf.
Report 1: So here I am in London, staying with friends in Thames Ditton (yes, I still have people back in the UK who will put up with me!). It has been a glorious Bank Holiday Monday here with a temperature in the high 20's Celsius. We had a lovely boat trip on the Thames from Hampton Court, the home of Henry VIII, to Richmond. Some of the houses we passed were quite stunning with immaculately kept gardens and the obligatory large expensive looking boat berthed at the end of the garden.
I saw where the Royal Mid Surrey Golf Club is located in the Old Deer Park. I have played my first round on this trip at Silvermere Golf Club. This was yesterday (Sunday) after arriving in London at 6.30am after a 24 hr flight. Needless to say my swing was a little rusty and I got off to a shaky start. The fairways are quite tight and a few errant tee shots found me with unplayable lies and double bogeys ensued. I did play the back 9 a lot better until the last 2 holes. Both involve shots over water. The 17th is a 143yd par 3, all carry over water - took 5. The 18th is a short par 4 of 324yds but you have to put your tee shot in the correct position as the hole dog-legs right with the second shot over water to the green - took 6.
Report 2: 4th Sept - Played at Pyrford Golf Club today. Opened in 1993, this course is not long by modern standards, measuring 5,750 yards from the yellow tees. Yellow tees in the UK are the equivalent to our white tees. However water abounds everywhere, and I mean everywhere. The fairways are narrow and the bunkers are strategically placed. The water crosses the fairways just at the point where your drive would land so I had to plot my way around this course, One par 5 was played 3 iron, 9 iron, sand wedge. Pyrford is a very picturesque course being set in an area of outstanding natural beauty and wildlife with 23 acres of lakes. My ball visited some of these as I stumbled at the end of my round, dropping 5 shots on the last 3 holes!
The next round will be at the Avening course of Minchinhampton Golf Club, where my younger brother Simon is currently Vice Captain. And then a week in The Algarve, Portugal, for some more golf.
Thought For The Week...........
It's not enough to live within your earnings, you have to live within your yearnings!
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