The season continues to wind down this week with Mixed Closing Day on Saturday for the Wardrop Cleek, a mixed foursome stableford, sponsored by Macquarie Private Wealth represented at the Club by Simon Gilroy. We will be playing the 9 hole course with a multi tee start so limited afternoon tee times will be available for men and there will be a shotgun start in the morning. For planning purposes if you are intending to play on Saturday please get your name down as soon as possible.
Just a reminder of the other two important dates appearing in the calendar namely the AGM scheduled for Tuesday 8 December in the Club House at 7.30, the Annual Report will be mailed out during this week. The second date is the Summer Garden Party set down for Sunday 13 December with tickets available through the caterers at $35 a head on a first come first served basis.
The course moves into the next renovation stage with the greens continuing to recover and holes 9 & 10 coming out of play for the fairways to be dug up and relaid. The programme is proceeding according to plan so well done to Mark Lawson and his team.
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
London Cup.............
Girlfriend arranged on Sunday for us both to play in an internal BNZ Tournament known as the London Cup held at McLeans Island Golf Club. The format was slightly unusual as it included a Teams Ambrose combined with a General Knowledge Quiz. At the conclusion of a hole a question was supplied and at the end of the round each correct answer entitled you to deduct 1 stroke from your score.
Our team included Jeff Suddens and David Sidaway and managed to score 14 out of 18 in the quiz and shot 3 under off the stick to finish second overall. Apparently this is really good result because if you win you have to organise next years tournament!! As a prize we collected a half ham each and in addition I won a spot prize of a $50 Westfield voucher so it was a Sunday well spent!!
I have to say I was reasonably impressed with the state of the course and would suggest if you are looking for a change you could do much worse than McLeans Island. The greens played well and the fairways were in good condition although I accept the layout is fairly straight forward.
Our team included Jeff Suddens and David Sidaway and managed to score 14 out of 18 in the quiz and shot 3 under off the stick to finish second overall. Apparently this is really good result because if you win you have to organise next years tournament!! As a prize we collected a half ham each and in addition I won a spot prize of a $50 Westfield voucher so it was a Sunday well spent!!
I have to say I was reasonably impressed with the state of the course and would suggest if you are looking for a change you could do much worse than McLeans Island. The greens played well and the fairways were in good condition although I accept the layout is fairly straight forward.
Monday, November 23, 2009
The Week That Was..............
The 2009 Men's Club Golf season came to a conclusion on Saturday with the playing of the McDougall Christmas Cup, the traditional closing day competition, sponsored by the BNZ represented at the club by Jeff Suddens, Lawson Scott, Alan Scott & Campbell Parker.
Played over 16 holes on a stableford basis the winning score was posted by a morning player Raymond Liong with 40 points on countback - not bad with 2 holes out and cored greens!! Leading home the Senior Grade was Ken Fergus on 36 points from Mitchell Vincent on 35 on countback from Keith Love. The first intermediate in was Hiroshi Naka with 38 points from Brian Adams on 37 by countback from Bryan Graham while a newer member Mark Thompson was the best Junior with 40 from Kevin McSoriley on 36 and Allan Masters on 35.
The two's pool climbed to $270 with 14 winners each receiving $19.30, the jackpot worth $104 was struck by Bryan Graham. Nearest the pins had a value of $35 and were won by Brian Ronan (3), Chris Richmond (7) and Hotta Fumio (11). Nett eagles were worth $115 with hole 17 being drawn and Dennis Maguire & Ray Vivian each taking $57.50. The Linden Leaves sponsored prize for closest to the pin on 2 for 2 was collected by David Kerr.
Nearest to the pin on 18 for 2 sponsored by Bejarong Thai Cuisine was won by Michael Hadley. After the completion of the round the final of the Benjarong Thai Cuisine Shootout was held with Bruce Taylor emerging as the victor with the third of his three attempts, given his strong performance during the year this was probably a "just" result. Many thanks to David Wallace for his on-going support through this sponsorship during the 2009 year.
In what was a busy day two other trophies were on the line for competition first there was the Joe Whitaker Memorial Putting Trophy which was won by Raymond Liong with 25 putts. In the other I played Bruce Taylor in the annual President v Club Captain match. Unfortunately Bruce had to give me a significant number of shots which in the end proved too much and allowed me to slip home - Bruce had 37 on the first nine but was 3 down hardly cricket really!!
Following on we then moved into the 2009 prize giving. Congratulations to all the winners and a special thank you to all those who turned up to receive their trophies in person. Organisation of the event is a major task and we are indebted to Struan Cain for his contribution for all his efforts in this regard. Congratulations to Joe Tiller who was the winner of the 2009 Golfer of the Year title.
Played over 16 holes on a stableford basis the winning score was posted by a morning player Raymond Liong with 40 points on countback - not bad with 2 holes out and cored greens!! Leading home the Senior Grade was Ken Fergus on 36 points from Mitchell Vincent on 35 on countback from Keith Love. The first intermediate in was Hiroshi Naka with 38 points from Brian Adams on 37 by countback from Bryan Graham while a newer member Mark Thompson was the best Junior with 40 from Kevin McSoriley on 36 and Allan Masters on 35.
The two's pool climbed to $270 with 14 winners each receiving $19.30, the jackpot worth $104 was struck by Bryan Graham. Nearest the pins had a value of $35 and were won by Brian Ronan (3), Chris Richmond (7) and Hotta Fumio (11). Nett eagles were worth $115 with hole 17 being drawn and Dennis Maguire & Ray Vivian each taking $57.50. The Linden Leaves sponsored prize for closest to the pin on 2 for 2 was collected by David Kerr.
Nearest to the pin on 18 for 2 sponsored by Bejarong Thai Cuisine was won by Michael Hadley. After the completion of the round the final of the Benjarong Thai Cuisine Shootout was held with Bruce Taylor emerging as the victor with the third of his three attempts, given his strong performance during the year this was probably a "just" result. Many thanks to David Wallace for his on-going support through this sponsorship during the 2009 year.
In what was a busy day two other trophies were on the line for competition first there was the Joe Whitaker Memorial Putting Trophy which was won by Raymond Liong with 25 putts. In the other I played Bruce Taylor in the annual President v Club Captain match. Unfortunately Bruce had to give me a significant number of shots which in the end proved too much and allowed me to slip home - Bruce had 37 on the first nine but was 3 down hardly cricket really!!
Following on we then moved into the 2009 prize giving. Congratulations to all the winners and a special thank you to all those who turned up to receive their trophies in person. Organisation of the event is a major task and we are indebted to Struan Cain for his contribution for all his efforts in this regard. Congratulations to Joe Tiller who was the winner of the 2009 Golfer of the Year title.
Congratulations to..............
Congratulations to our Woodward Cup captain and number one Tom Turner who has been selected for the Canterbury Tower Inter Provincial Team. This is a great reward for Tom who has worked hard on his golf game during the 2009 season. On behalf of the Club all the best for the coming competition.
Sunday saw Canterbury Golf's Champion of Champions competition take place at Harewood. We were represented by Brenden Follows, Dodge Healey & Don Forbes who finished a very credible third behind winners Waiariri Beach and in second the home club Harewood.
Sunday saw Canterbury Golf's Champion of Champions competition take place at Harewood. We were represented by Brenden Follows, Dodge Healey & Don Forbes who finished a very credible third behind winners Waiariri Beach and in second the home club Harewood.
Valley of Peace Cricket Match....................
A report from the intrepid reporter Glenn Bongartz. The Christchurch Golf Club 1st XI cricket team beats the Valley of the Peace. It has been a long time between drinks for the Christchurch Golf Club in this historic game of cricket. Wow, what a performance!
On a drizzly Sunday morning a group of young guns and older folk lined up for a game of cricket. Christchurch won the toss and after much discussion between on field and off field captains (Bongartz and McAlpine) the decision was made to bat. After the first over CGC were 1 down for 1, the ball was bouncing and seaming at the same time as not coming onto the bat, Great! Long story short, we finished on 263/4. M Rountree 101no, his 7th century at The Valley (he normally plays for The Valley in this fixture but is playing more golf so Callum secured his services). A flawless 91 from G Sanders (unlucky to be given LBW and took it like a gentleman) after a promotion from number 9 last year, and a quick fire 39no from Andy Bell. Bongartz and Loughnan also added to the score.
Going out to defend 263 at The Valley is a good place to be. We bowled the whole team (except Rountree as he had done his job) with the following wicket takers. Cumberpatch 5 overs 18/1 ,Kitney 4/13/1, Lamb 5/21/2, Sanders 2/4/1 Loughnan 2/0 runs/ 1 wicket, McAlpine 1/1/1, Bongartz 1/3/1, A Vincent 5/14/1 M Vincent 2/3/1 and 3 stunning catches. The Valley was all out for 97 and a win to us. All our players chipped in a great day was had by all.
A parade will be held through down town Christchurch when the CCC get back to us with a date.
We did suffer one major injury after the match with Liam Cumberpatch getting tangled in a tricky deck chair and nearly losing the top of a finger. The team wishes him well on the road back to full fitness.
Thanks to Callum and Gareth putting the team together , and a special thanks to the Valley of the Peace Cricket Club for inviting us again and putting on another great day (a bit better day than the last few years, for us anyway). The Valley will not be getting back Rountree next year as he fits our team dynamics.
On a drizzly Sunday morning a group of young guns and older folk lined up for a game of cricket. Christchurch won the toss and after much discussion between on field and off field captains (Bongartz and McAlpine) the decision was made to bat. After the first over CGC were 1 down for 1, the ball was bouncing and seaming at the same time as not coming onto the bat, Great! Long story short, we finished on 263/4. M Rountree 101no, his 7th century at The Valley (he normally plays for The Valley in this fixture but is playing more golf so Callum secured his services). A flawless 91 from G Sanders (unlucky to be given LBW and took it like a gentleman) after a promotion from number 9 last year, and a quick fire 39no from Andy Bell. Bongartz and Loughnan also added to the score.
Going out to defend 263 at The Valley is a good place to be. We bowled the whole team (except Rountree as he had done his job) with the following wicket takers. Cumberpatch 5 overs 18/1 ,Kitney 4/13/1, Lamb 5/21/2, Sanders 2/4/1 Loughnan 2/0 runs/ 1 wicket, McAlpine 1/1/1, Bongartz 1/3/1, A Vincent 5/14/1 M Vincent 2/3/1 and 3 stunning catches. The Valley was all out for 97 and a win to us. All our players chipped in a great day was had by all.
A parade will be held through down town Christchurch when the CCC get back to us with a date.
We did suffer one major injury after the match with Liam Cumberpatch getting tangled in a tricky deck chair and nearly losing the top of a finger. The team wishes him well on the road back to full fitness.
Thanks to Callum and Gareth putting the team together , and a special thanks to the Valley of the Peace Cricket Club for inviting us again and putting on another great day (a bit better day than the last few years, for us anyway). The Valley will not be getting back Rountree next year as he fits our team dynamics.
A Journey South................
After a fall out and a crash and burn my Journey South to Dunedin was slightly curtailed!! However there are a couple of interesting points to note:
1) Respectable coffee can be obtained from the Classic Cafe which is a coffee cart located in a square off Princes Street by the Whitcliffe Building (opp. the Casino sort of).
2) Unless in dire need of exercise do not attempt to walk up High Street especially if you are only going to a supermarket. Walking down isn't that easy either.
3) The road between Dunedin & Balclutha is quite busy given I did two trips down there. Good coffee can be obtained from the Gate Cafe. It also appears the further South you go the more relaxed the life style - at times a mixed blessing.
4) You can get lost in Dunedin. I lost the Department of Labour. Ventures into a number of buildings on Princes Street failed to ascertain its whereabouts however a somewhat panicked phone call home established the premises were in fact now in Bond Street - I arrived seconds before the mediation was due to start.
5) Whenever I attend Dunedin it rains at least for part of the time!!
Apart from that a good time was had by all.
1) Respectable coffee can be obtained from the Classic Cafe which is a coffee cart located in a square off Princes Street by the Whitcliffe Building (opp. the Casino sort of).
2) Unless in dire need of exercise do not attempt to walk up High Street especially if you are only going to a supermarket. Walking down isn't that easy either.
3) The road between Dunedin & Balclutha is quite busy given I did two trips down there. Good coffee can be obtained from the Gate Cafe. It also appears the further South you go the more relaxed the life style - at times a mixed blessing.
4) You can get lost in Dunedin. I lost the Department of Labour. Ventures into a number of buildings on Princes Street failed to ascertain its whereabouts however a somewhat panicked phone call home established the premises were in fact now in Bond Street - I arrived seconds before the mediation was due to start.
5) Whenever I attend Dunedin it rains at least for part of the time!!
Apart from that a good time was had by all.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Into The Twilight Zone...............
Helen from the Dunedin office is a keen golfer and often our work discussions are predicated by an update of our respective games and swing. Using her best endeavours Helen skillfully arranged my work schedule that I would be free to play twilight golf with her on Wednesday night.
As instructed I presented myself at Belleknowes Golf Club at the appointed time full of expectation. For those of you who are from outside Dunedin Belleknowes is situated just on the edge of the town belt with spectacular views over the city. Affectionately known as the "Tin Hat Club" it is a municipal course and is very compact in nature with a number of adjacent and intersecting fairways- a cross between Ascot and Richmond Hill - with 7 par 3's and 2 par 4's on the Men's card.
The layout is challenging and calls for a high degree of accuracy with your irons given the close proximity of OB and skinny fairways - not exactly the strength of my game. The second hole is especially challenging a 228 metre par 3 with a blind tee shot over a bluff then down hill to a narrow green. The finishing hole at 197 metre uphill back to the club house ensures there is no easy finish. The greens were on the slow side but seemed to run true provided you allowed for the break.
While not perhaps of Championship standard the course provided an interesting walk and is ideally suited to those short of time or looking for and introduction to the game. The members were very friendly and the green fees low (twilight cost me $4 plus $6 for a dinner - curried sausages).
As instructed I presented myself at Belleknowes Golf Club at the appointed time full of expectation. For those of you who are from outside Dunedin Belleknowes is situated just on the edge of the town belt with spectacular views over the city. Affectionately known as the "Tin Hat Club" it is a municipal course and is very compact in nature with a number of adjacent and intersecting fairways- a cross between Ascot and Richmond Hill - with 7 par 3's and 2 par 4's on the Men's card.
The layout is challenging and calls for a high degree of accuracy with your irons given the close proximity of OB and skinny fairways - not exactly the strength of my game. The second hole is especially challenging a 228 metre par 3 with a blind tee shot over a bluff then down hill to a narrow green. The finishing hole at 197 metre uphill back to the club house ensures there is no easy finish. The greens were on the slow side but seemed to run true provided you allowed for the break.
While not perhaps of Championship standard the course provided an interesting walk and is ideally suited to those short of time or looking for and introduction to the game. The members were very friendly and the green fees low (twilight cost me $4 plus $6 for a dinner - curried sausages).
Thought For The Week..............
I really enjoy long walks especially when they are taken by people who annoy me!!!!
Monday, November 16, 2009
What's Happening This Week.............
The culmination of the 2009 golfing season takes place on Saturday 21 with Men's Closing Day followed by the prize giving. The Match of the Day is sponsored by the BNZ and is a shotgun start at 8.00 & 12.30 for the McDougall Christmas Cup on individual stableford. Given the fairway renovations we will be playing over 16 holes.
If you have been lucky enough to win a trophy during the year it would be really great if you could make the effort to be there in person on Saturday to pick it up it makes it all the more worthwhile and you get the recognition you deserve. If you were a winner in 2008 and have not yet returned your trophy please do so now as a matter of urgency!!
Other dates to note are Mixed Closing Day on 28 November sponsored by Macquarie Private Wealth and the Club AGM on 8 December at 7.30 at the Clubhouse.
On a personal note this week sees me in Dunedin for four days. I hope to play in a twilight on Wednesday but apart from that I will have to see what develops especially as the Regional Manager for some reason is following me in making a visit!! It was of course raining when I arrived - some things never change.
If you have been lucky enough to win a trophy during the year it would be really great if you could make the effort to be there in person on Saturday to pick it up it makes it all the more worthwhile and you get the recognition you deserve. If you were a winner in 2008 and have not yet returned your trophy please do so now as a matter of urgency!!
Other dates to note are Mixed Closing Day on 28 November sponsored by Macquarie Private Wealth and the Club AGM on 8 December at 7.30 at the Clubhouse.
On a personal note this week sees me in Dunedin for four days. I hope to play in a twilight on Wednesday but apart from that I will have to see what develops especially as the Regional Manager for some reason is following me in making a visit!! It was of course raining when I arrived - some things never change.
The Week That Was.............
A combination of a long weekend, the races and cored greens saw a very limited number of golfers tee it up on Saturday in a Greensome Two Stroke Competition. Notwithstanding the sporting nature of the greens some excellent scores were recorded.
Winning the club competition was the pairing of Richard Peate & Simon Robinson on a nett 66 from Gary Forward & Steve Ellis on nett 67 with David Robinson and Brendon Follows on nett 68. The best round of the day was recorded Andrew & Bryan (non member) Gillespie who shot a nett 65.
The two's pool reached the dizzy heights of $75 and there were three winners - Bryan Gillespie, Gary Forward & Steve Ellis each receiving $25. A new jackpot pool of $44 was not struck. Nearest the pins were Gary Forward on 3 and Richard Peate on 11 another $25 each. Closest to the pin on 2x2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Liam Cumberpatch and the winner of the Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher for nearest to the pin on 18 x 2 was Gary Forward (all in all a good day for Gary Forward!!)
Winning the club competition was the pairing of Richard Peate & Simon Robinson on a nett 66 from Gary Forward & Steve Ellis on nett 67 with David Robinson and Brendon Follows on nett 68. The best round of the day was recorded Andrew & Bryan (non member) Gillespie who shot a nett 65.
The two's pool reached the dizzy heights of $75 and there were three winners - Bryan Gillespie, Gary Forward & Steve Ellis each receiving $25. A new jackpot pool of $44 was not struck. Nearest the pins were Gary Forward on 3 and Richard Peate on 11 another $25 each. Closest to the pin on 2x2 sponsored by Linden Leaves was Liam Cumberpatch and the winner of the Benjarong Thai Cuisine voucher for nearest to the pin on 18 x 2 was Gary Forward (all in all a good day for Gary Forward!!)
Around the Course..............
Last week the course was closed on Monday and Tuesday to allow the greens staff to scarify, core and sand the greens. With a little help from the weather, it didn't rain too badly, the programme was completed within time and we were back ready for play on Wednesday - unfortunately the was a scarcity of golfers!!! The greens appear to have survived the ordeal in reasonable order and Mark Lawson is confident they will recover more quickly than last year.
This week sees us move to stage two of the fairway renovations with holes 13 & 14 coming out of play. With the learning's from last year we are confident that the whole process will move through without difficulty and we back "on the grass" for 18 by the 2010 Opening Day in late January.
Since just before the Shirley Open there has been considerable discussion in regards to the state of the rough. The situation has been heightened by a vigorous spring growing season especially in some areas where there has been new seedings. Over the summer months we will be trialing a new system of rough control which will see the second cut extended and a longer third cut but the balance of the rough left longer and mowed on a more infrequent basis (bear in mind during summer a lot of this area is unwatered and will burn off).
The rationale for this move is both as a cost saving in terms mowing and maintenance but also to strengthen the course. Given its Links nature at Shirley you are penalised for a wayward shot by distance only and this new programme seeks to focus and reward the golfer on hitting the fairways rather than hitting and hoping (this will necessarily bring some changes to my game!!!).
The Board will monitor the situation over the next wee while to gauge the effects of the proposed changes. If you have any comments or wish to discuss the matter further please feel free to speak with me.
This week sees us move to stage two of the fairway renovations with holes 13 & 14 coming out of play. With the learning's from last year we are confident that the whole process will move through without difficulty and we back "on the grass" for 18 by the 2010 Opening Day in late January.
Since just before the Shirley Open there has been considerable discussion in regards to the state of the rough. The situation has been heightened by a vigorous spring growing season especially in some areas where there has been new seedings. Over the summer months we will be trialing a new system of rough control which will see the second cut extended and a longer third cut but the balance of the rough left longer and mowed on a more infrequent basis (bear in mind during summer a lot of this area is unwatered and will burn off).
The rationale for this move is both as a cost saving in terms mowing and maintenance but also to strengthen the course. Given its Links nature at Shirley you are penalised for a wayward shot by distance only and this new programme seeks to focus and reward the golfer on hitting the fairways rather than hitting and hoping (this will necessarily bring some changes to my game!!!).
The Board will monitor the situation over the next wee while to gauge the effects of the proposed changes. If you have any comments or wish to discuss the matter further please feel free to speak with me.
Changes at Harewood................
Sunday saw me head, with girlfriend, to Harewood for 9 holes in the morning. It was interesting to note that "the old course" is undergoing extensive reconstruction as a result of the airport sale and is in fact currently reduced to nine holes.
The holes in play are 1-5, 9, 16 - 18 and while there was a deal of walking between some of the tees the flow of play was reasonable. Given the size of the renovations it will be interesting to see how long it is before the revised holes are back in play especially as peering through the ropes the sub soil was very "boney' to say the least.
The holes in play are 1-5, 9, 16 - 18 and while there was a deal of walking between some of the tees the flow of play was reasonable. Given the size of the renovations it will be interesting to see how long it is before the revised holes are back in play especially as peering through the ropes the sub soil was very "boney' to say the least.
Valley of Peace Cricket.........
Christchurch Golf Club is very fortunate to be on the Valley of Peace playing roster and this Sunday 22 November is the scheduled fixture. If you are interested in playing cricket at this iconic Christchurch venue please speak directly to either Callum at the pro shop or Glenn Bongartz. All the best for the team in their endeavours.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Summer Garden Party.................
Just a very brief reminder that tickets to the Summer Garden Party scheduled for Sunday 13 December are now on sale through Amanda on a first come first served basis. The cost is $35 and that covers both finger food and alcohol.
Please book in early so we are able to finalise the catering as soon as possible. This will be an excellent event in and around the clubhouse overlooking the course with some other activities (of a golfing) nature also planned.
Please book in early so we are able to finalise the catering as soon as possible. This will be an excellent event in and around the clubhouse overlooking the course with some other activities (of a golfing) nature also planned.
Monday, November 9, 2009
The 2009 Shootout...........
The Shirley Links Golf Shop sponsored Shootout Final took place on Sunday 8 November with 19 golfers waiting expectantly on the tee. Last week I said prepare for a 6 hour round but that was optimistic in the extreme as it was over seven hours before we finally had a winner after a closely contested match.
It was disclosed to me that during the week prior there was considerable banter between golfing buddies Grant Adamson and Michael Ambrose as to who may fold under the pressure earliest. Unfortunately it was Grant who had difficulty with the rough on the first and went out only to be closely followed by Michael at the second after difficulties with the sand - not quite what they had planned.
Players to bow out in order were Peter Law (3), Ray Vivian (4), David Young (5), Clifford Chan (6), Ross Campbell (7), Philip Hong (8), & David Youn (9). The highest handicapper in the field Mike Stenhouse on 23 ran into trouble with the tussocks on 10 and never really got back into the hole on 10. Raymond Liong had been playing well with some huge drives off the tee but unfortunately he visited the sand which he didn't seem to want to leave on 11 to go out after Niven Boyle sunk an important 6 ft breaking putt for a 5 after being in the trees short right.
Returning back over the road David Kerr, with his father Michael on the bag, had been solid in all the early holes but was caught out on 12 when it looked as though there may be a major shootout when he could not make his putt to stay in the game. The absence of a shot on the difficult 13 put an end to the run of Tony Park who had been well supported in the "book". Niven Boyle will undoubtedly have nightmares about 13 which was hole where he went out last year and again this year especially after such a massive drive way down over the hill and past the gums on the left.
The group was now down to 5 with 4 having a shot on 15 and Jin Ho Neoh having 2. A drive slightly right put David Wallace deep in the "cabbage" from which at least initially he was unable to extract himself with a rescue wood and he was subsequently eliminated. Going down 16 it was only Jin Ho who had a shot and even an effective 4 putt saw him safely through as was Peter Hollister with a bogey. Making double were Alan Scott and Brian Tyro and they moved to a shoot out - with Brian putting his closer meaning Scotty went out - perhaps the beer wasn't the best idea!
Nerves were beginning to be stretched and Peter Hollister's drive ended on top of the right hand bunkers with a difficult recovery shot, having played out he then missed the green left into the heavy rough and he struggled from then on to be the penultimate player eliminated. Moving to the 18 tee were Brian Tyro & Jin Ho Neoh, the advantage lay slightly in Ho's favour given he had a shot up his sleeve.
It would be an understatement to say a drama then unfolded; both players hit wayward drives, Brian right and Ho left. Neither player had a shot to the green and both had to chip out in Ho's case backwards and then sideways. Raising to the occasion Ho put his 4 on the green, pin high but well to to the left. Unfortunately Brian's chip had travelled through the fairway and had drawn a bare lie in the left rough and he was unable to make the green with his third. However Brian then played a superb chip to leave himself with an uphill putt for 5 . Ho calmly played a lag to have a tap in for 6 nett 5 meaning Brian needed to sink his to move to a shoot out. Although Brian hit a good putt it slipped past the hole on the left to mean the Shootout title for 2009 was claimed by Jin Ho Neoh.
Thanks to all those who helped make the day a great success - Trig, Dennis Doherty and Rod O'Brien for their work on the greens, Struan for keeping the score, and Amanda & Andrew Vincent for sending out supplies with Mitchell and Liam when they were desperately needed!!
It was disclosed to me that during the week prior there was considerable banter between golfing buddies Grant Adamson and Michael Ambrose as to who may fold under the pressure earliest. Unfortunately it was Grant who had difficulty with the rough on the first and went out only to be closely followed by Michael at the second after difficulties with the sand - not quite what they had planned.
Players to bow out in order were Peter Law (3), Ray Vivian (4), David Young (5), Clifford Chan (6), Ross Campbell (7), Philip Hong (8), & David Youn (9). The highest handicapper in the field Mike Stenhouse on 23 ran into trouble with the tussocks on 10 and never really got back into the hole on 10. Raymond Liong had been playing well with some huge drives off the tee but unfortunately he visited the sand which he didn't seem to want to leave on 11 to go out after Niven Boyle sunk an important 6 ft breaking putt for a 5 after being in the trees short right.
Returning back over the road David Kerr, with his father Michael on the bag, had been solid in all the early holes but was caught out on 12 when it looked as though there may be a major shootout when he could not make his putt to stay in the game. The absence of a shot on the difficult 13 put an end to the run of Tony Park who had been well supported in the "book". Niven Boyle will undoubtedly have nightmares about 13 which was hole where he went out last year and again this year especially after such a massive drive way down over the hill and past the gums on the left.
The group was now down to 5 with 4 having a shot on 15 and Jin Ho Neoh having 2. A drive slightly right put David Wallace deep in the "cabbage" from which at least initially he was unable to extract himself with a rescue wood and he was subsequently eliminated. Going down 16 it was only Jin Ho who had a shot and even an effective 4 putt saw him safely through as was Peter Hollister with a bogey. Making double were Alan Scott and Brian Tyro and they moved to a shoot out - with Brian putting his closer meaning Scotty went out - perhaps the beer wasn't the best idea!
Nerves were beginning to be stretched and Peter Hollister's drive ended on top of the right hand bunkers with a difficult recovery shot, having played out he then missed the green left into the heavy rough and he struggled from then on to be the penultimate player eliminated. Moving to the 18 tee were Brian Tyro & Jin Ho Neoh, the advantage lay slightly in Ho's favour given he had a shot up his sleeve.
It would be an understatement to say a drama then unfolded; both players hit wayward drives, Brian right and Ho left. Neither player had a shot to the green and both had to chip out in Ho's case backwards and then sideways. Raising to the occasion Ho put his 4 on the green, pin high but well to to the left. Unfortunately Brian's chip had travelled through the fairway and had drawn a bare lie in the left rough and he was unable to make the green with his third. However Brian then played a superb chip to leave himself with an uphill putt for 5 . Ho calmly played a lag to have a tap in for 6 nett 5 meaning Brian needed to sink his to move to a shoot out. Although Brian hit a good putt it slipped past the hole on the left to mean the Shootout title for 2009 was claimed by Jin Ho Neoh.
Thanks to all those who helped make the day a great success - Trig, Dennis Doherty and Rod O'Brien for their work on the greens, Struan for keeping the score, and Amanda & Andrew Vincent for sending out supplies with Mitchell and Liam when they were desperately needed!!
Norton Francis Cup..............
Saturday afternoon on 7 November saw 10 visiting clubs descend on Shirley Links for the 78th playing of the Norton Francis Cup. The competition is decided by way of a teams fourball par competition with Club Members playing for the Markers Cup on the same basis. Norton Francis was Club President for 12 years from 1928 to 1939 and its was his vision to have the "country clubs" come to town to play at least once each year.
The overall winner was the Gleniti Club from Timaru with a score of +14, in second on +11 were Rakaia who recovered from a slow start to perform with credit, in third place were the previously well performed Tai Tapu team. It was interesting to note the rivalry between Rakaia and Mayfield where there was definitely more at stake than just pride - long discussions were held as to which Hotel on the return trip would be visited and who would be paying.
Leading home the Club members was the team of Paul Dunn, JD, Mark Fiebig, & Simon Yorke with an impressive score of +20, an inquiry may yet follow. In second in what would normally be a winning score of +16 was Grant Mitchell, Joe Mullins, Barry O'Neill & Andrew Vincent. Back in third by comparison on a mere +14 were 2 family combinations Jack & Ian MacDonald with Don & Ryan Forbes.
If you can not win at least you want to avoid receiving the wooden spoon. For the visiting clubs that dubious honour went to the Akaroa team on -2 who were lead by a long time Christchurch member Ken Elliott - obviously local knowledge was of limited help. Graham Clark, Ian Walker, Ahmad Hosseini & Jeff Suddens received the trophy on behalf of the members on +3. I suspect the comment "At least we got a prize!!" was more in frustration than anything else.
The day was a great success with a very friendly and appreciative gathering in the Clubhouse at the end of the day. The comments from the visitors reinforced to the members present the value and goodwill generated by this Match as well as many expressions as to the high standard of the course and its presentation (we don't know how lucky we are!!)!
The overall winner was the Gleniti Club from Timaru with a score of +14, in second on +11 were Rakaia who recovered from a slow start to perform with credit, in third place were the previously well performed Tai Tapu team. It was interesting to note the rivalry between Rakaia and Mayfield where there was definitely more at stake than just pride - long discussions were held as to which Hotel on the return trip would be visited and who would be paying.
Leading home the Club members was the team of Paul Dunn, JD, Mark Fiebig, & Simon Yorke with an impressive score of +20, an inquiry may yet follow. In second in what would normally be a winning score of +16 was Grant Mitchell, Joe Mullins, Barry O'Neill & Andrew Vincent. Back in third by comparison on a mere +14 were 2 family combinations Jack & Ian MacDonald with Don & Ryan Forbes.
If you can not win at least you want to avoid receiving the wooden spoon. For the visiting clubs that dubious honour went to the Akaroa team on -2 who were lead by a long time Christchurch member Ken Elliott - obviously local knowledge was of limited help. Graham Clark, Ian Walker, Ahmad Hosseini & Jeff Suddens received the trophy on behalf of the members on +3. I suspect the comment "At least we got a prize!!" was more in frustration than anything else.
The day was a great success with a very friendly and appreciative gathering in the Clubhouse at the end of the day. The comments from the visitors reinforced to the members present the value and goodwill generated by this Match as well as many expressions as to the high standard of the course and its presentation (we don't know how lucky we are!!)!
Thought For The Week.................
If at first you don't succeed, destroy all evidence that you tried!!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
What's Happening Week of 2 November............
This week sees me in Wellington for a two and a bit day workshop/conference on "Risk Management As Regulatory Strategy" run by Malcolm Sparrow a visiting Professor from Havard's John F Kennedy School of Government - a fun time at the Brentwood Hotel. A check of my calender shows a couple of mediations in the balance of the week so the tax payer will be getting value for dollar!
On the golf front Saturday sees the Norton Francis Cup with 13 visiting clubs participating on a combined pairs four-ball par competition while the members play for the Markers Cup on the same basis. Please get you names down as soon as possible as this is always an enjoyable day and the visiting clubs appreciate the efforts made.
Sunday is scheduled for the final of the Shootout sponsored by the Shirley Links Golf Shop, many thanks to Ant & JB. This is a long day for the organisers and the players but it is well worthwhile to be present at some part of the day particularly the finish which normally incorporates some form of drama. If you are in the field bank on at least a six hour round if you get to the final holes and with 19 hitting off a long first!!
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before!
On the golf front Saturday sees the Norton Francis Cup with 13 visiting clubs participating on a combined pairs four-ball par competition while the members play for the Markers Cup on the same basis. Please get you names down as soon as possible as this is always an enjoyable day and the visiting clubs appreciate the efforts made.
Sunday is scheduled for the final of the Shootout sponsored by the Shirley Links Golf Shop, many thanks to Ant & JB. This is a long day for the organisers and the players but it is well worthwhile to be present at some part of the day particularly the finish which normally incorporates some form of drama. If you are in the field bank on at least a six hour round if you get to the final holes and with 19 hitting off a long first!!
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before!
Course Happenings.........
You will find at the Club House a handout prepared by Struan confirming the timetable for the course renovation and the revised events.
Briefly the Greens will be cored and scarified on Monday 9 & Tuesday 10 November. The first holes no.'s 13 & 14 will be taken out for fairway renovation on Monday 16 November - 16 holes in play. The following week Monday 21 November holes 9 & 10 come out 14 holes in play. The final holes 7 & 8 come out on Monday 30 November and we move to the 9 hole layout.
During the renovation period tee times for the 9 holes will be 8.00am to 10am then 12 noon to 2.00pm and after 4.00pm. Please note that the 9 hole course will be rated for handicap purposes.
Briefly the Greens will be cored and scarified on Monday 9 & Tuesday 10 November. The first holes no.'s 13 & 14 will be taken out for fairway renovation on Monday 16 November - 16 holes in play. The following week Monday 21 November holes 9 & 10 come out 14 holes in play. The final holes 7 & 8 come out on Monday 30 November and we move to the 9 hole layout.
During the renovation period tee times for the 9 holes will be 8.00am to 10am then 12 noon to 2.00pm and after 4.00pm. Please note that the 9 hole course will be rated for handicap purposes.
Monday, November 2, 2009
A Visit to Hutt Golf Club.............
The cheapest airfare had me arrive in Wellington on Monday just after midday but not required to register for my conference until 6.00. Not being one to miss an opportunity I took half a days leave and arranged to play golf with Brooke who is not only the daughter of a colleague but also at times doubles as the food taster for the food fairy.
Time constraints and travel required a quick round so the Hutt Golf Club was the course of choice. The Hutt is a par 70 and a relatively short course with only 2 par 5's but is comparatively tight on the front nine. After two straight forward holes to start the course increases in difficulty and there is a premium on keeping it straight. The fairways are lined with mature pine trees but it was a Monkey Puzzle Tree that ate my ball.
The second nine provides more room off the tee and I felt comfortable taking a driver which certainly shortened up the holes. The 18th is the shortest par 3 I have played for a while measuring just 98m and played over water to a three level green. The course was probably not at its best with the greens having been recently cored and the fairways spiked but it was an enjoyable game. Although appearing flat my legs told me I had a good workout over an undulating surface.
Three points of interest were; Brooke played from the 'white tees' (she plays softball for NZ, is the designated hitter & for a considerable time I thought she would beat me off the stick), Steve Ellis is on the honours board by the 1st tee for the 1999 Arbor Day Cup, & the Club is considering merging with its neighbour the Boulcott Golf Club - a sign of the times perhaps?
Time constraints and travel required a quick round so the Hutt Golf Club was the course of choice. The Hutt is a par 70 and a relatively short course with only 2 par 5's but is comparatively tight on the front nine. After two straight forward holes to start the course increases in difficulty and there is a premium on keeping it straight. The fairways are lined with mature pine trees but it was a Monkey Puzzle Tree that ate my ball.
The second nine provides more room off the tee and I felt comfortable taking a driver which certainly shortened up the holes. The 18th is the shortest par 3 I have played for a while measuring just 98m and played over water to a three level green. The course was probably not at its best with the greens having been recently cored and the fairways spiked but it was an enjoyable game. Although appearing flat my legs told me I had a good workout over an undulating surface.
Three points of interest were; Brooke played from the 'white tees' (she plays softball for NZ, is the designated hitter & for a considerable time I thought she would beat me off the stick), Steve Ellis is on the honours board by the 1st tee for the 1999 Arbor Day Cup, & the Club is considering merging with its neighbour the Boulcott Golf Club - a sign of the times perhaps?
The Week That Was..................
Saturday was an important day for the Club and the generosity of the members was overwhelming in that we raised $4500.00 for Ian Wagstaff and his family. A special thank you to Bryan Andrews and Struan Cain for all their work in making this a most successful and worthwhile day.
Bryan Andrews Auctioneers were the sponsor of the day and in addition to Ian funds were also raised for the Canterbury Golf Development Trust. The competition was Pairs Aggregate Stableford from the Blue Tees on the Alternate Course - a challenge for us all especially with the tees right back!! To provide for a fairer match Bryan provided both a morning and afternoon prize table however strangely this was the one day where the afternoon players seemed to have an advantage.
The morning winners were Richard Pearce & Martin Toon on 63 points from Jim Paulsen & Kevin McSoriley on 62 with Russell Lange & Michael Hadley on 60 in third. Three people made two's Mike Hadley, Graeme Watson & Vaughan McMillan qualifying for 3 balls each. In the afternoon Dave Morrison & Dave Robinson came in first with 71 points and were the winners of the Arthur Donnelly Salver, Steve & Matthew Hicks were second on 68 on countback from Tony Park & Dyuk-Hyun Kim.
In the afternoon ladies Janet Osborn & Amanda Isaac put together a respectable 64 points for a merit award. The winning team for the Christchurch Casino Shootout was Andrew Hopkins, Charles Whitwham, Dave Robinson & Dave Morrison - more details of this competition will follow. Six players made two's and each get 3 balls - Kerry Haycock, Bryan Pearson, Bryan Andrews, Paddy Helmore, Ian Walker & Duck-Hyun Kim.
Nearest the pin on 18 sponsored by Benjarong Thai Cuisine was Ian Walker while Graham Clark won the Linden Leaves prize for closest to the pin on 11 (normal 2). Closest to the pins on 3 (11) Philip Hong, 6 (7) Grant Mitchell & 12 (3) Paddy Helmore. Once again thanks to all who made this day a success and Bryan Andrews for his support.
Bryan Andrews Auctioneers were the sponsor of the day and in addition to Ian funds were also raised for the Canterbury Golf Development Trust. The competition was Pairs Aggregate Stableford from the Blue Tees on the Alternate Course - a challenge for us all especially with the tees right back!! To provide for a fairer match Bryan provided both a morning and afternoon prize table however strangely this was the one day where the afternoon players seemed to have an advantage.
The morning winners were Richard Pearce & Martin Toon on 63 points from Jim Paulsen & Kevin McSoriley on 62 with Russell Lange & Michael Hadley on 60 in third. Three people made two's Mike Hadley, Graeme Watson & Vaughan McMillan qualifying for 3 balls each. In the afternoon Dave Morrison & Dave Robinson came in first with 71 points and were the winners of the Arthur Donnelly Salver, Steve & Matthew Hicks were second on 68 on countback from Tony Park & Dyuk-Hyun Kim.
In the afternoon ladies Janet Osborn & Amanda Isaac put together a respectable 64 points for a merit award. The winning team for the Christchurch Casino Shootout was Andrew Hopkins, Charles Whitwham, Dave Robinson & Dave Morrison - more details of this competition will follow. Six players made two's and each get 3 balls - Kerry Haycock, Bryan Pearson, Bryan Andrews, Paddy Helmore, Ian Walker & Duck-Hyun Kim.
Nearest the pin on 18 sponsored by Benjarong Thai Cuisine was Ian Walker while Graham Clark won the Linden Leaves prize for closest to the pin on 11 (normal 2). Closest to the pins on 3 (11) Philip Hong, 6 (7) Grant Mitchell & 12 (3) Paddy Helmore. Once again thanks to all who made this day a success and Bryan Andrews for his support.
It's All About Me..........
On Saturday I managed to navigate the course from the blue tees with the same ball from start to finish. What a difference a day makes - Sunday saw the disappearance of "5" golf balls: one out of bounds, one up a tree, one into the water and two lost to the Shirley rough - to the right of nine & beyond the bunkers on 5. All returns gratefully accepted - balls marked with a smiley face!!
Sunday also saw me play my first full round with my girlfriend (as an other pairing in the Mixed Match) and I think it fair to say there is room for improvement in both our games particularly mine!! In addition to 5 lost balls there was also an indiscretion (of the golfing kind) in the heavy rough which necessitated the subsequent purchase of alcohol! After such a performance I could find myself dropped!!
Finally any stories/rumours emanating from the Carlton Hotel car park are exaggerated and have grown in the telling - there was merely a goodnight kiss.
Sunday also saw me play my first full round with my girlfriend (as an other pairing in the Mixed Match) and I think it fair to say there is room for improvement in both our games particularly mine!! In addition to 5 lost balls there was also an indiscretion (of the golfing kind) in the heavy rough which necessitated the subsequent purchase of alcohol! After such a performance I could find myself dropped!!
Finally any stories/rumours emanating from the Carlton Hotel car park are exaggerated and have grown in the telling - there was merely a goodnight kiss.
Odd Spots......
In a busy Sunday the over 50's also played at Shirley and good scores were recorded by the home team - Ken Fergus 78, Steve Hicks 81, Tony Park 81 & Dennis Maguire 82. The team has set its sights on the nett prize and they are still well in the running more updates will follow.
Congratulations to John Sanders who has again been selected to represent New Zealand in a Masters tournament to be held in Malaysia. We will expect on going reports from JB when he returns, in the interim congratulations from the whole club.
One of the outcomes from the Shirley Open is that Steve Ellis now has a new nickname being his call sign on the communications system "Scoreboard Steve". Initially required to differentiate him from referee Steve Hicks the name stuck and became a feature over the weekend as did Steve's dedication to his job when he refused to leave his post for lunch requiring it instead to be delivered out to him behind the 8th green!!
Congratulations to John Sanders who has again been selected to represent New Zealand in a Masters tournament to be held in Malaysia. We will expect on going reports from JB when he returns, in the interim congratulations from the whole club.
One of the outcomes from the Shirley Open is that Steve Ellis now has a new nickname being his call sign on the communications system "Scoreboard Steve". Initially required to differentiate him from referee Steve Hicks the name stuck and became a feature over the weekend as did Steve's dedication to his job when he refused to leave his post for lunch requiring it instead to be delivered out to him behind the 8th green!!
Hill Skinner Cup.....
Braving the Shirley rough a field of 32 turned out to do battle for the Hill Skinner Cup the symbol of supremacy for the Husband & Wife combination of the Christchurch Golf Club. The competition was by way of four-ball par not stableford as some competitors believed.
Conditions were challenging with a nor'easter keeping the temperatures moderate and the course being decidedly testing. Taking those matters into consideration the scoring was understandably slightly less than would have otherwise been anticipated. However on a score of +7 by countback the winners were David Robinson & Stephanie Beth from Raj Rajendra & Nancy Lim closely followed by Struan & Terry Cain on +6 in third by countback from Grant & Janet Osborn who had eventually got their card correct.
Probably indicative of the difficulty of the day was that no 2's were recorded. The prize for closest to the pin on 18 for two for men was Struan Cain and for women for three was Nancy Lim. Hitting off first from number one was the final of the Page Trophy where eventually Murray & Lorraine Smith were victorious over Alan and Karyn Scott.
The next Mixed Event is closing day scheduled for 28 November a mixed foursome stableford sponsored by Macquarie Private Wealth. Please note it will be a shotgun start but playing the nine hole layout twice.
Conditions were challenging with a nor'easter keeping the temperatures moderate and the course being decidedly testing. Taking those matters into consideration the scoring was understandably slightly less than would have otherwise been anticipated. However on a score of +7 by countback the winners were David Robinson & Stephanie Beth from Raj Rajendra & Nancy Lim closely followed by Struan & Terry Cain on +6 in third by countback from Grant & Janet Osborn who had eventually got their card correct.
Probably indicative of the difficulty of the day was that no 2's were recorded. The prize for closest to the pin on 18 for two for men was Struan Cain and for women for three was Nancy Lim. Hitting off first from number one was the final of the Page Trophy where eventually Murray & Lorraine Smith were victorious over Alan and Karyn Scott.
The next Mixed Event is closing day scheduled for 28 November a mixed foursome stableford sponsored by Macquarie Private Wealth. Please note it will be a shotgun start but playing the nine hole layout twice.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
President's Grade Report..............
From the Manager of President's Dennis Doherty the following report was filed!!
A very brief positive report: we won 4.5 to 3.5 - a brilliant result and our first win of the season against a strong opposition Russley.
The match finished was the way it should - decided on the last putt. Fortunately Taiji, one of many demon putters from the Russley team missed a makeable putt to lose the 18th & give us the vital half we needed to secure an overdue victory!
As the result records another very tense struggle - all the way. From the start it was always going to be close - but Russley held the edge in the clubhouse - being 3/1 up through the early pairings. But a very determined effort by David Young to come back ( I think ) from 3 down with 4 to play - to win 1 up - 16th was vital to the cause.
Another good win to Jeff Gray - who was playing David Pirie ( a difficult customer at the best of times - he never knows when to give in ) and it was a good return to form for Marcus to win 4/3 & suddenly it was 3 all in the Clubhouse!It now all depended
It now all depended on the No's 1 & 2's who were a good 20 minutes away - Paddy Helmore told me it took us 40 minutes to play the 16th - but it was worth it - The awesome Shirley course was extracting its vengeance - Chris Brockett had just got back to 1 up after being 1 down - & I had fought my way back to 1 down after being 3 down. Chris's opponent played his 2nd out of the rough into a tree to cannon off into the creek.My partner Taiji - couldn't find his ball - & ended up with an 8 - my match all square & Chris 2 up. Chris went on to secured his match on the 17th. Unfortunately I made a mess of 17 - recording a 5 to Taiji's 4 - & I am 1 down again.
All ended well on 18th - great game - good result & course was awesome.
I will keep you informed of what's happening - but with course renovations its likely our next game wont be till 13 December at Clearwater
Well done team & caddy ( aka Special)
A very brief positive report: we won 4.5 to 3.5 - a brilliant result and our first win of the season against a strong opposition Russley.
The match finished was the way it should - decided on the last putt. Fortunately Taiji, one of many demon putters from the Russley team missed a makeable putt to lose the 18th & give us the vital half we needed to secure an overdue victory!
As the result records another very tense struggle - all the way. From the start it was always going to be close - but Russley held the edge in the clubhouse - being 3/1 up through the early pairings. But a very determined effort by David Young to come back ( I think ) from 3 down with 4 to play - to win 1 up - 16th was vital to the cause.
Another good win to Jeff Gray - who was playing David Pirie ( a difficult customer at the best of times - he never knows when to give in ) and it was a good return to form for Marcus to win 4/3 & suddenly it was 3 all in the Clubhouse!It now all depended
It now all depended on the No's 1 & 2's who were a good 20 minutes away - Paddy Helmore told me it took us 40 minutes to play the 16th - but it was worth it - The awesome Shirley course was extracting its vengeance - Chris Brockett had just got back to 1 up after being 1 down - & I had fought my way back to 1 down after being 3 down. Chris's opponent played his 2nd out of the rough into a tree to cannon off into the creek.My partner Taiji - couldn't find his ball - & ended up with an 8 - my match all square & Chris 2 up. Chris went on to secured his match on the 17th. Unfortunately I made a mess of 17 - recording a 5 to Taiji's 4 - & I am 1 down again.
All ended well on 18th - great game - good result & course was awesome.
I will keep you informed of what's happening - but with course renovations its likely our next game wont be till 13 December at Clearwater
Well done team & caddy ( aka Special)
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