From Manager and Staff Reporter Dennis Doherty.
For sometime Presidents have been knocking on the door to score points on the road. Good efforts at both Templeton and Clearwater in the last 2 matches put us close but we have just fallen at the final hurdle. But on Sunday – the team went the full hog a secured a magnificent win at Harewood - 5/3
It took a while for the results to come in as a lot of matches went the whole 18. At 3 & 4 Bill Abrams & I wrapped our games up early - Bill admirably keeping his cool on the 12th when a shanked drive went over the trees into the fairway bunker on an adjacent hole, a bad bunker shot - then he hit a tree - after 3 shots - he really had not advanced too far - But this 12th hole was a turning point - somehow Bill recovered for a 6 & his opponent managed to manufacture a 7. Bill won 4/3 while I won 7/6 - for a change I played some good golf but my opponent didn’t. Bill & I retired to watch the NZ Open in the clubhouse.
It was some time before John MacVicar & Geoff Brodie arrived on the 18th green. John unfortunately after a very close tussle went down 2/1 - I went out to the 18th to see Geoff Brodie lining up a good 4 metre putt (it may have been more) from all angles - from ground level to eye level - this was obviously a very important putt - after lots of precise practise swings - eventually the putter made very good contact with the ball which to the chagrin of Geoff's opponent disappeared down the hole - a very well secured half. Marcus Annan - appeared from I know not where - but eventually we got the truth out of him - a very good strong 6/5 win at the top of the order.
Next were Lindsay Buxton & Jeff Gray - it was difficult to tell the state of the games - but Lindsay confessed to a wobbly few holes, 14-16, which had cost him his match 2/1. Jeff had a 3 metre putt - which was taken quickly & again the ball disappeared down the hole, another half secured, much again to his opponents frustration as it was the only putt Jeff had sunk all day. (A thought for Jeff please for a speedy recovery of his wife who is on hospital recovering from an operation).
Now we had 4 points in & couldn't lose - with Chris Brocket still to come - We were a little concerned at Chris's approach to 18 - but all was well - his match secured with a 2/1 win at the 17th. A very welcome & magnificent away win 5/3. Well done team.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
The Week That Was..........
Blessed with one of the only true days of summer, so far, Saturday was simply spectacular for opening day although the wind was as always slightly tricky. It was with some relief and great pleasure that we reverted to the full 18 holes with the new fairways in play.
Sponsored by Lion Breweries Match of the Day was a teams event best ball nett for the BB Wood Memorial Trophy. With good conditions and the greens running well a good score was always on the cards. The field was slightly depleted with the NZ Open drawing away a few regular Saturday golfers however the standard of play remained undiminished.
With a fine nett 55 the winners were the team of David Clark, Ian Currie, Allan Masters and Bentley Seeto just ahead of Neill Bradley, Gerry Burgess, Gary Hooper, & John MacVicar on 56 by countback from last years winners Grant Borrie, Peter Davey, Richard Pearse & Martin Toon. However round of the day and perhaps the year was recorded by new dad Peter MacDougall who shot a 66 off the stick with a hole in one on the 7th (a running 5 iron). Well done Peter and thanks for the shout it was much appreciated. Obviously the late night golf watching with the baby is only improving your game.
The twos pool opened at $200 and there were 15 winners $13.35 each - the jackpot was not struck. Nearest the pins were worth $35 won by Lawrence Wong (3) and Tony McKeogh (11 - but no 2). The jackpot was not struck and $100 carries forward. Nett eagles also opened with a pool of $100 but 6 was drawn and no one qualified for the payout so it too carries forward.
This year David Blair from Linden Leaves has agreed to sponsor nearest the pin for two on 18 - thank you David for your continued support. This week,s winner was Bryan Graham who almost put it in the hole. The buffet format of $5 in for food after the round worked exceptionally well and will be considered later in the year when we have more shotgun starts!
Finally congratulations to Tom Turner who on Sunday 24 January won the Waitikiri Open in a playoff. Tom is a former Club Champion, current Woodward captain & number one as well as a Canterbury representative at the Torro Inter-provincials. Tom's golf has soared in the last twelve months a just reward for all his hard work and dedication - well done Tom and all the best for 2010!!
Sponsored by Lion Breweries Match of the Day was a teams event best ball nett for the BB Wood Memorial Trophy. With good conditions and the greens running well a good score was always on the cards. The field was slightly depleted with the NZ Open drawing away a few regular Saturday golfers however the standard of play remained undiminished.
With a fine nett 55 the winners were the team of David Clark, Ian Currie, Allan Masters and Bentley Seeto just ahead of Neill Bradley, Gerry Burgess, Gary Hooper, & John MacVicar on 56 by countback from last years winners Grant Borrie, Peter Davey, Richard Pearse & Martin Toon. However round of the day and perhaps the year was recorded by new dad Peter MacDougall who shot a 66 off the stick with a hole in one on the 7th (a running 5 iron). Well done Peter and thanks for the shout it was much appreciated. Obviously the late night golf watching with the baby is only improving your game.
The twos pool opened at $200 and there were 15 winners $13.35 each - the jackpot was not struck. Nearest the pins were worth $35 won by Lawrence Wong (3) and Tony McKeogh (11 - but no 2). The jackpot was not struck and $100 carries forward. Nett eagles also opened with a pool of $100 but 6 was drawn and no one qualified for the payout so it too carries forward.
This year David Blair from Linden Leaves has agreed to sponsor nearest the pin for two on 18 - thank you David for your continued support. This week,s winner was Bryan Graham who almost put it in the hole. The buffet format of $5 in for food after the round worked exceptionally well and will be considered later in the year when we have more shotgun starts!
Finally congratulations to Tom Turner who on Sunday 24 January won the Waitikiri Open in a playoff. Tom is a former Club Champion, current Woodward captain & number one as well as a Canterbury representative at the Torro Inter-provincials. Tom's golf has soared in the last twelve months a just reward for all his hard work and dedication - well done Tom and all the best for 2010!!
Web Site Up & Running........
By separate e-mail I have advised that the new website is now up and running but for the sake of completeness I repeat the instructions as to membership registration.
Please note that the automated reply goes to the e-mail address held for you by the Club. If your e-mail address has changed, or you would prefer it sent to a different address, or alternatively the Club does not hold your address please speak directly with Cecily at the office.
If you have a few minutes clink onto the link and have a look: www.christchurchgolf.co.nz
To gain full access to the members section it is necessary to register. To register click on “New User? Register Now” on the left hand side of the screen under “Go” and follow the prompts on the screen – remember to use your full 7 digit code. Once you have completed the screens you will receive an automated email confirming registration and access. To view member areas when you subsequently log in you complete the “Membership Number “(7 digits) and “Password” and hit “GO”.
Enjoy the new website but please note if you are not running the most updated Microsoft Internet Explorer version the hole graphics may not load fully. In this situation I suggest you obtain advice from your provider as to how this may be obtained.
Please feel free to make suggestions as to improvements or content you wish to be included on the website. As I have previously indicated the Board is anxious to establish the website as the information portal for the membership and your input is essential.
In the interim the "Simon Says" blog will continue to be published on the existing site and by feats of magic and slight of hand will also appear on the Club website - posted in the Members Section under News. I am taking the use of a hyper link under advisement and will report again at a later date.
Please note that the automated reply goes to the e-mail address held for you by the Club. If your e-mail address has changed, or you would prefer it sent to a different address, or alternatively the Club does not hold your address please speak directly with Cecily at the office.
If you have a few minutes clink onto the link and have a look: www.christchurchgolf.co.nz
To gain full access to the members section it is necessary to register. To register click on “New User? Register Now” on the left hand side of the screen under “Go” and follow the prompts on the screen – remember to use your full 7 digit code. Once you have completed the screens you will receive an automated email confirming registration and access. To view member areas when you subsequently log in you complete the “Membership Number “(7 digits) and “Password” and hit “GO”.
Enjoy the new website but please note if you are not running the most updated Microsoft Internet Explorer version the hole graphics may not load fully. In this situation I suggest you obtain advice from your provider as to how this may be obtained.
Please feel free to make suggestions as to improvements or content you wish to be included on the website. As I have previously indicated the Board is anxious to establish the website as the information portal for the membership and your input is essential.
In the interim the "Simon Says" blog will continue to be published on the existing site and by feats of magic and slight of hand will also appear on the Club website - posted in the Members Section under News. I am taking the use of a hyper link under advisement and will report again at a later date.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
What's Happening Week of 25 January 2010.........
As we move into the last week of January activity in and around the course begins to heighten!
Women's Opening Day is scheduled for Tuesday 26 January with competition of the day being a Canadian Foursome Stableford. Men's Opening Day follows on Saturday 30 January with a Teams Event Best Ball Stroke for the BB Wood Memorial Trophy sponsored by Lion Breweries (always a good event!!!). Good luck to you all in these first two events of the 2010 year!
As advised last week we return to the 18 holes this week but on Saturday and not Tuesday as originally envisaged as Mark is just taking the extra couple of days to put the finishing touches to the new fairways. The special conditions around their use (if any) will be displayed on the Noticeboard on the Pro shop prior to tee off so please follow any instructions diligently as an infraction may invoke a penalty in more ways than one!!
From the Office, Struan assures me that the Club's updated website will come on-line this week so take the time, perhaps on Thursday or Friday, to have a look and see what has changed. The next step will be to move to an on-line tee booking system and we anticipate that happening sometime around Easter but more information will be disseminated nearer the time. Currently I am in high level discussions to ascertain the future publication and distribution programme for the Blog but it is likely to be linked to the Website, again, more information will follow.
Speaking of information the 2010 programme will be mailed out in the coming week so you will be able to plan your year a round golf. This could well be the last year we publish a programme as the list of events will be on the Website and this may well be an expense where we can reduce cost! Do you have a view??
Inter Club golf takes a step up this Sunday with the Metropolitan competition hitting off. Under the new management of Steve Ellis and Ben Frampton a competitive team comprising Tony Park, Keith Love, Garry Forward, Paddy Helmore, Steve Savill, Dean Palmer, Simon Fraser & Steve Ellis has been selected to do battle with Windsor at the ungodly hour of 8.30am on Sunday morning at Shirley. Meanwhile the Presidents team Jack MacDonald, Marcus Annan, Chris Brockett, Dennis Doherty, Jeff Gray, Lindsay Buxton, Bill Abrams & John MacVicar ply their wares away at at Harewood at the much more civilised hour of 12 noon. Undoubtedly reports will follow in due course!!
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before!
Women's Opening Day is scheduled for Tuesday 26 January with competition of the day being a Canadian Foursome Stableford. Men's Opening Day follows on Saturday 30 January with a Teams Event Best Ball Stroke for the BB Wood Memorial Trophy sponsored by Lion Breweries (always a good event!!!). Good luck to you all in these first two events of the 2010 year!
As advised last week we return to the 18 holes this week but on Saturday and not Tuesday as originally envisaged as Mark is just taking the extra couple of days to put the finishing touches to the new fairways. The special conditions around their use (if any) will be displayed on the Noticeboard on the Pro shop prior to tee off so please follow any instructions diligently as an infraction may invoke a penalty in more ways than one!!
From the Office, Struan assures me that the Club's updated website will come on-line this week so take the time, perhaps on Thursday or Friday, to have a look and see what has changed. The next step will be to move to an on-line tee booking system and we anticipate that happening sometime around Easter but more information will be disseminated nearer the time. Currently I am in high level discussions to ascertain the future publication and distribution programme for the Blog but it is likely to be linked to the Website, again, more information will follow.
Speaking of information the 2010 programme will be mailed out in the coming week so you will be able to plan your year a round golf. This could well be the last year we publish a programme as the list of events will be on the Website and this may well be an expense where we can reduce cost! Do you have a view??
Inter Club golf takes a step up this Sunday with the Metropolitan competition hitting off. Under the new management of Steve Ellis and Ben Frampton a competitive team comprising Tony Park, Keith Love, Garry Forward, Paddy Helmore, Steve Savill, Dean Palmer, Simon Fraser & Steve Ellis has been selected to do battle with Windsor at the ungodly hour of 8.30am on Sunday morning at Shirley. Meanwhile the Presidents team Jack MacDonald, Marcus Annan, Chris Brockett, Dennis Doherty, Jeff Gray, Lindsay Buxton, Bill Abrams & John MacVicar ply their wares away at at Harewood at the much more civilised hour of 12 noon. Undoubtedly reports will follow in due course!!
In the interim good golfing and I will see you at Shirley if not before!
Select Braemar Lodge & Spa........
On Saturday we welcomed a new Sponsor to the Christchurch Golf Club in the form of Select Braemar Lodge & Spa who provided the prizes for the Mixed Opening Day event. It was a pleasure to be able to entertain the Lodge Manager Tina Smith and her partner Jerry to the evening meal and prize giving.
Most of us will recall the 'old' Braemar Lodge just outside of Hanmer Springs but Tina advises the complex, apart from the original fireplace, has now been almost entirely rebuilt and it provides the perfect location for a quiet weekend away or perhaps that venue for a Corporate Retreat. In particular the Altitude Restaurant can seat in an intimate atmosphere numbers from 2 to 100 and the Spa is an excellent place to escape and ease away the tensions and stress that are associated with life on a day to day basis.
We thank Select Braemar Lodge for their participation and generosity and hope that it will be a long and rewarding partnership for the years to come. I am sure the lucky winners will appreciate the range services provided and report back positively on their experience.
As members please remember to support those people who support us wherever that is possible.
Most of us will recall the 'old' Braemar Lodge just outside of Hanmer Springs but Tina advises the complex, apart from the original fireplace, has now been almost entirely rebuilt and it provides the perfect location for a quiet weekend away or perhaps that venue for a Corporate Retreat. In particular the Altitude Restaurant can seat in an intimate atmosphere numbers from 2 to 100 and the Spa is an excellent place to escape and ease away the tensions and stress that are associated with life on a day to day basis.
We thank Select Braemar Lodge for their participation and generosity and hope that it will be a long and rewarding partnership for the years to come. I am sure the lucky winners will appreciate the range services provided and report back positively on their experience.
As members please remember to support those people who support us wherever that is possible.
The Week That Was.............
Saturday saw Mixed Opening Day with a fourball par competition for the Sir Cyril Ward Memorial Trophy. Although there was the hint of inclement weather in the air, such that a few groups pulled out, a "bullish" decision was made to proceed and the optimistic view adopted was well justified as the conditions improved markedly as the afternoon progressed. In all there was a field of over 50 and this was swelled by further numbers arriving solely for the dinner.
With a strong performance over the second nine Shaun & Cher Xiong were the overall winners on +9 by countback from Raj Rajendra & Nancy Lim. Not too far behind in third were Murray & Lorraine Smith on +8, from in fourth on +7 Rob & Joc Davidson and sneaking into 5th by countback on +6 (a popular score achieved also by myself and Kate Shier amongst others) were Grant Mitchell and Sue Brown.
Roger Gowans was nearest to the pin for Men for two on 18 while Kate Shier was closest for 3 to the same hole, in the Women's competition. Two's were recorded by 6 players, Roger Gowans, Shaun Xiong, Grahame Buist, Bruce Cooper, Joe Mullins and Ian MacDonald who each received a sleeve of golf balls.
A pleasant meal, chicken breast as a main followed berry cheesecake as a dessert, and good cheer was the reward at the conclusion of the round. The next Mixed Match is the Centennial Ice Bucket set down for the 14 February where your pair is drawn into a four and the competition is an Irish Stableford (at least it was last year) - updates and explanations to follow.
Finally, in so far as Mixed is concerned, the entry form for the Page Family Trophy is now on display so get your names down for this popular and fun mixed foursome matchplay competition as soon as possible.
With a strong performance over the second nine Shaun & Cher Xiong were the overall winners on +9 by countback from Raj Rajendra & Nancy Lim. Not too far behind in third were Murray & Lorraine Smith on +8, from in fourth on +7 Rob & Joc Davidson and sneaking into 5th by countback on +6 (a popular score achieved also by myself and Kate Shier amongst others) were Grant Mitchell and Sue Brown.
Roger Gowans was nearest to the pin for Men for two on 18 while Kate Shier was closest for 3 to the same hole, in the Women's competition. Two's were recorded by 6 players, Roger Gowans, Shaun Xiong, Grahame Buist, Bruce Cooper, Joe Mullins and Ian MacDonald who each received a sleeve of golf balls.
A pleasant meal, chicken breast as a main followed berry cheesecake as a dessert, and good cheer was the reward at the conclusion of the round. The next Mixed Match is the Centennial Ice Bucket set down for the 14 February where your pair is drawn into a four and the competition is an Irish Stableford (at least it was last year) - updates and explanations to follow.
Finally, in so far as Mixed is concerned, the entry form for the Page Family Trophy is now on display so get your names down for this popular and fun mixed foursome matchplay competition as soon as possible.
NZ PGA Clearwater..........
Along with a large number of other Club members I spent Sunday following Anthony Doyle in the final round of the PGA at Clearwater, in fact at one stage I thought there were as many members there as at Shirley on a Saturday! I am sure that Ant was encouraged by the strong turnout in support.
Ant finished tied for 10th in what was an exceptionally creditable performance (tied for the 3rd best New Zealand score) with a fourth round of 71 including 3 birdies and 2 bogeys. It was wonderful to see how Ant maintained his composure under the last round pressure especially when he sunk a tricky 8 foot par putt on the 18th in the midst of the southerly change. Had it not been for a slight hiccup on 18 on Saturday his finishing position could well have even better.
Having won the '09 Shirley Open this was a great follow up and Ant's efforts "on course" not only enhance his own reputation but reflect favourably on the Club as well. I am sure the Club supports me when I extend our congratulations to him for another fine effort.
Ant finished tied for 10th in what was an exceptionally creditable performance (tied for the 3rd best New Zealand score) with a fourth round of 71 including 3 birdies and 2 bogeys. It was wonderful to see how Ant maintained his composure under the last round pressure especially when he sunk a tricky 8 foot par putt on the 18th in the midst of the southerly change. Had it not been for a slight hiccup on 18 on Saturday his finishing position could well have even better.
Having won the '09 Shirley Open this was a great follow up and Ant's efforts "on course" not only enhance his own reputation but reflect favourably on the Club as well. I am sure the Club supports me when I extend our congratulations to him for another fine effort.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Cafe Of The Month.................
First and foremost I am by nature a creature of habit and by inclination definitely not an early morning person so to encourage me out to breakfast, prior to work, requires the promise of something slightly special!!
Joe's Garage on the corner of Hereford & Liverpool Streets is such a place, open for both breakfast and lunch it has an understated decor with a nostalgic look that has a lot to do with pictures of Tonka cars and trucks that adorn the walls. The breakfast menu caterers for all tastes with a nice balance for those who go for the works and for who crave something lighter first thing. I was particularly impressed with the spiced sausages that accompanied my bacon and eggs.
As always coffee was of a good standard being made from Ozone beans and available for sale on site. A quick look at the lunch menu evinced a a selection wide enough to cover most tastes a view that was supported by the friends who accompanied us and provided the initial recommendation. Certainly Joe's Garage is well worth a visit.
Joe's Garage on the corner of Hereford & Liverpool Streets is such a place, open for both breakfast and lunch it has an understated decor with a nostalgic look that has a lot to do with pictures of Tonka cars and trucks that adorn the walls. The breakfast menu caterers for all tastes with a nice balance for those who go for the works and for who crave something lighter first thing. I was particularly impressed with the spiced sausages that accompanied my bacon and eggs.
As always coffee was of a good standard being made from Ozone beans and available for sale on site. A quick look at the lunch menu evinced a a selection wide enough to cover most tastes a view that was supported by the friends who accompanied us and provided the initial recommendation. Certainly Joe's Garage is well worth a visit.
Technologically Advanced????.............
Without being an IT Geek I think for someone approaching "middle" "middle age" I do not do too badly in the micro chip era - well so I thought!!
I was having dinner with some members of girlfriend's extended family and discussing mass communication techniques and how I advised of the Blog update by group e-mail - thinking I was pretty "cool". When niece, of late teen years, gave me a look, nay a withering look, reserved for decrepit dinosaurs, "Nobody communicates by mass e-mail these days in fact most people have abandoned their e-mail addresses!!"
Apparently today's acceptable and approved method of update is exclusively reserved for Facebook and those fortunate enough to be listed as Friends who receive automatic notifications when new information is posted.
My efforts to explore this medium further were defeated by the Departments firewall as apparently this is a prohibited site so needless to say group e-mails will continue despite their antiquated nature I have however committed to ascertaining and implementing something to do with blind copies (actually my computer knowledge is pretty limited!!)
I was having dinner with some members of girlfriend's extended family and discussing mass communication techniques and how I advised of the Blog update by group e-mail - thinking I was pretty "cool". When niece, of late teen years, gave me a look, nay a withering look, reserved for decrepit dinosaurs, "Nobody communicates by mass e-mail these days in fact most people have abandoned their e-mail addresses!!"
Apparently today's acceptable and approved method of update is exclusively reserved for Facebook and those fortunate enough to be listed as Friends who receive automatic notifications when new information is posted.
My efforts to explore this medium further were defeated by the Departments firewall as apparently this is a prohibited site so needless to say group e-mails will continue despite their antiquated nature I have however committed to ascertaining and implementing something to do with blind copies (actually my computer knowledge is pretty limited!!)
Sunday, January 17, 2010
What's Happening Week of 18 January........
The Club programme now kicks back into life for the 2010 year with Mixed Opening day on Saturday 23 January playing for the Sir Cryil Ward Memorial Trophy a four ball par competition. The entry fee is $22.50 which includes the after match dinner.
While we anticipate using a multi tee start (1, 16 & 12) at 12.30 but early numbers indicate that we may have to change that to a shotgun. To ensure forward planning is in operation we would appreciate it if those who have not yet entered could do so as soon as possible!! If there is a change in plan those effected will be telephoned.
This weekend will be the last where the 9 hole layout is in operation as we plan to revert to the full 18 for Women's Opening Day on Tuesday 26 January. While we are still considering the option of playing from tees it may well be that we are hitting off the grass on the basis that we are all vigilant in repairing pitch marks and divots and respecting the "no go" areas in the green surrounds.
Please note the given the time and expense involved in the renovations any restrictions or requirements in respect of course maintenance and repair will be strictly enforced with no exceptions!!
While we anticipate using a multi tee start (1, 16 & 12) at 12.30 but early numbers indicate that we may have to change that to a shotgun. To ensure forward planning is in operation we would appreciate it if those who have not yet entered could do so as soon as possible!! If there is a change in plan those effected will be telephoned.
This weekend will be the last where the 9 hole layout is in operation as we plan to revert to the full 18 for Women's Opening Day on Tuesday 26 January. While we are still considering the option of playing from tees it may well be that we are hitting off the grass on the basis that we are all vigilant in repairing pitch marks and divots and respecting the "no go" areas in the green surrounds.
Please note the given the time and expense involved in the renovations any restrictions or requirements in respect of course maintenance and repair will be strictly enforced with no exceptions!!
Shirwater Trophy
A much reduced field fronted at Clearwater in what can best be described as testing conditions. For the first time the Clearwater contingent exceeded the numbers from Christchurch as a large proportion of the participants took heed of the weather predictions and scratched. A cold southerly made playing conditions treacherous but fortunately the rain stayed away for all but the last few holes.
Normally we would be hosting Clearwater at this time of the year but given the change of dates for the PGA, our course renovations and conflicting Club programmes the decision was made to fit in another 'away' trip. Certainly in my view we were privileged to be able to play Clearwater so close to a major event and it was interesting to note the tournament preparations as we struggled our way through 18 holes.
While individually some of the Christchurch players were in outstanding form as a team we just failed overall to win back the trophy. However the Men's prize list was dominated by the Shirley faithful: in first position with an outstanding effort of 39 points was Warren Jones 2 ahead of Dean Feutz (a new member and next door neighbour of Ian Walker) on 37 in second on countback from Kim Leung & Ant Doyle and former member Stephen Montgomery. Also featuring on the prize list were Ben Frampton and Shaun Xiong who won a closest to the pin. Unfortunately our Women's group was not quite so successful given the unfamiliar and difficult surroundings.
The first two placegetters won a start in the NZPGA Pro Am on Wednesday so good luck to Warren and Dean especially with the early morning tee time. Playing with Ant he carded a 1 under 71 with 2 birdies, 1 bogey and 15 pars - the reason we lost to Kerryn Starr and Barry Johnston clearly rests with my inability to perform to the required standard (or in fact to any standard - putting lessons are now an imperative!!).
On behalf of the Club we wish Ant all the best in his quest to add the PGA title to the Shirley Open and also to Carl Brooking who is playing on a sponsors exemption - good luck guys play well!!
Normally we would be hosting Clearwater at this time of the year but given the change of dates for the PGA, our course renovations and conflicting Club programmes the decision was made to fit in another 'away' trip. Certainly in my view we were privileged to be able to play Clearwater so close to a major event and it was interesting to note the tournament preparations as we struggled our way through 18 holes.
While individually some of the Christchurch players were in outstanding form as a team we just failed overall to win back the trophy. However the Men's prize list was dominated by the Shirley faithful: in first position with an outstanding effort of 39 points was Warren Jones 2 ahead of Dean Feutz (a new member and next door neighbour of Ian Walker) on 37 in second on countback from Kim Leung & Ant Doyle and former member Stephen Montgomery. Also featuring on the prize list were Ben Frampton and Shaun Xiong who won a closest to the pin. Unfortunately our Women's group was not quite so successful given the unfamiliar and difficult surroundings.
The first two placegetters won a start in the NZPGA Pro Am on Wednesday so good luck to Warren and Dean especially with the early morning tee time. Playing with Ant he carded a 1 under 71 with 2 birdies, 1 bogey and 15 pars - the reason we lost to Kerryn Starr and Barry Johnston clearly rests with my inability to perform to the required standard (or in fact to any standard - putting lessons are now an imperative!!).
On behalf of the Club we wish Ant all the best in his quest to add the PGA title to the Shirley Open and also to Carl Brooking who is playing on a sponsors exemption - good luck guys play well!!
Presidents Grade Report .................
vs. TEMPLETON at Templeton by their Manager & Guest Reporter Doherty
A wet miserable day, but the course and the company were very good.
Brian Tyro who provided each of the Christchurch team with a very neat sun cream bottle - refuses to take any responsibility for the rain that followed us around most of the day. But - thank you Brian - nice touch - all we need is the opportunity to use it - summer must come soon.
Templeton who are top of the table proved too strong for us - but at one stage it looked as if we might just pull off what would have been a very good draw. Unfortunately - Simon who was hurling "straight" ( this word needs emphasising) very long with impressive exocet missiles off the tee was very unlucky to miss a birdie putt on the 18th & lose 1 down with a net 68 (it was actually 70 my opponent shot 68 - I was robbed!!). Brian incurred a few speed wobbles on the last few holes to be unlucky to go down 2/1.
A very good win on the 18th to Jeff Gray and a 3/2 win by yours truly so the final score was a 6-2 loss but lots of positive signs for the future rounds!
A wet miserable day, but the course and the company were very good.
Brian Tyro who provided each of the Christchurch team with a very neat sun cream bottle - refuses to take any responsibility for the rain that followed us around most of the day. But - thank you Brian - nice touch - all we need is the opportunity to use it - summer must come soon.
Templeton who are top of the table proved too strong for us - but at one stage it looked as if we might just pull off what would have been a very good draw. Unfortunately - Simon who was hurling "straight" ( this word needs emphasising) very long with impressive exocet missiles off the tee was very unlucky to miss a birdie putt on the 18th & lose 1 down with a net 68 (it was actually 70 my opponent shot 68 - I was robbed!!). Brian incurred a few speed wobbles on the last few holes to be unlucky to go down 2/1.
A very good win on the 18th to Jeff Gray and a 3/2 win by yours truly so the final score was a 6-2 loss but lots of positive signs for the future rounds!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Of Shoes & Ships...............
Despite the season closing a couple of inter club matches took place in late December early January.
On 20 December a Mixed Team and a team of Juniors travelled to the Hororata Golf Club to participate in the Brian Cleland Trophy (mixed) and the Cleland Cup (juniors) match. At tee off the weather was sunny and hot but by the 9th a southerly change produced heavy rain and a distinct chill fortunately this the rain lifted by the 14th but alas too early to save the Christchurch team.
Our Junior team under the control of Mark Harris performed admirably to secure a 5 1/2 to 2 1/2 victory with some very good individual scores being posted by Henry & Tom Pearson, and Marcel Boet amongst others. Each member of the Christchurch Team received a medal in honour of their victory through the kind auspicious of Brian Cleland.
The less said about our Senior team is probably best but a thank you to all those who found time to partake at what is a busy time of the year. However, despite the prior comment, there should be a special mention of Grahame Buist who stood in at the last moment and prevented an absolute whitewash and got us on the board with a very solid one up victory. Our challenge next year will not only be to improve our golf but also to match Hororata in the afternoon tea stakes!!
On Sunday 3 January the Club welcomed a contingent from the Heritage Club in Melbourne who were undertaking a golfing holiday in conjunction with a cruise around NZ on the Princess Dawn. While we did not engage in a head to head combat a delightful morning was spent walking the fairways with our Australian friends with the congeniality extending over a light luncheon at the conclusion of the round. I believe it is a pleasing feature of the Club's reciprocal arrangements that we building formally and informally a network of contacts that extend to all levels of club participation.
On 20 December a Mixed Team and a team of Juniors travelled to the Hororata Golf Club to participate in the Brian Cleland Trophy (mixed) and the Cleland Cup (juniors) match. At tee off the weather was sunny and hot but by the 9th a southerly change produced heavy rain and a distinct chill fortunately this the rain lifted by the 14th but alas too early to save the Christchurch team.
Our Junior team under the control of Mark Harris performed admirably to secure a 5 1/2 to 2 1/2 victory with some very good individual scores being posted by Henry & Tom Pearson, and Marcel Boet amongst others. Each member of the Christchurch Team received a medal in honour of their victory through the kind auspicious of Brian Cleland.
The less said about our Senior team is probably best but a thank you to all those who found time to partake at what is a busy time of the year. However, despite the prior comment, there should be a special mention of Grahame Buist who stood in at the last moment and prevented an absolute whitewash and got us on the board with a very solid one up victory. Our challenge next year will not only be to improve our golf but also to match Hororata in the afternoon tea stakes!!
On Sunday 3 January the Club welcomed a contingent from the Heritage Club in Melbourne who were undertaking a golfing holiday in conjunction with a cruise around NZ on the Princess Dawn. While we did not engage in a head to head combat a delightful morning was spent walking the fairways with our Australian friends with the congeniality extending over a light luncheon at the conclusion of the round. I believe it is a pleasing feature of the Club's reciprocal arrangements that we building formally and informally a network of contacts that extend to all levels of club participation.
Happenings in Timaru..............
For some reason Timaru became a hotbed of industrial unrest in the closing months of 2009 such that I have made a number of trips to the Riviera of the South over the past few weeks - 4 I think at last count!!
Imagine, if you will then, my chagrin at having transported myself, by foot, to Church Street to discover "The Red Rocket" no longer exists but has been superseded by "Zest". I was understandably distraught!! Having ventured that far I did partake of a small repast but the ambiance that was the Red Rocket was missing - not withstanding "a fresh green decor" the coffee was of potable standard.
Matters were then worsened by the fact for the first three visits the Purple Lizard failed to supply the much vaunted Rocky Road - it was with some relief it was present in the food cabinet for my last assignation. All being well my next journey south is not until March!
Imagine, if you will then, my chagrin at having transported myself, by foot, to Church Street to discover "The Red Rocket" no longer exists but has been superseded by "Zest". I was understandably distraught!! Having ventured that far I did partake of a small repast but the ambiance that was the Red Rocket was missing - not withstanding "a fresh green decor" the coffee was of potable standard.
Matters were then worsened by the fact for the first three visits the Purple Lizard failed to supply the much vaunted Rocky Road - it was with some relief it was present in the food cabinet for my last assignation. All being well my next journey south is not until March!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Welcome to 2010...................
After a somewhat unscheduled (and longer than anticipated) break the Blog now makes its return for the 2010 year. Unfortunately the pressures of work finally caught up with me in December and time allocation to the task of publication seemed to evaporate in the face of alternative duties.
I wish all members and readers the best for the coming year and look forward to seeing you on the course, in the pro-shop and at the bar over the next 12 months. I hope you have weathered the festive season well and are in a positive frame of mind to take up the challenges that inevitably inhabit the game of golf.
It is anticipated that within the near future (read - "very soon") the new Club website will come on line. It is the Board's view that the website will become the main portal for communication to members and the role of the blog may well be incorporated into that process but be assured it is my declared intention to continue to bother you on a weekly basis!!
Opening days: Our Club programme does not normally appear until the last weeks of January so please note Mixed Opening Day is scheduled for 23 January 2010 - in all probability on the 9 hole course, while Men's Opening day has been booked for the 30 January hopefully over 18 holes. I know that Men's Opening Day does clash with the New Zealand Open but unfortunately that was unavoidable given date changes.
Clearwater Match: Normally with the PGA on the horizon we would host Clearwater in one of our twice yearly challenges however with the course reduced to 9 holes we thought it better to visit them. Accordingly this Saturday 16 January we will be playing Clearwater at Clearwater for the Shirwater Trophy (currently held by Clearwater). The entry sheet is at the pro-shop so please get your name down as soon as possible so you can be entered in the draw. Subsequent registration is at Clearwater from 11.00am on Saturday with a shotgun start at 12.00. The cost is $30 which covers prizes and a meal at the conclusion of the round. Please note that this is a Mixed match so all Lady members are welcome to play!!
I wish all members and readers the best for the coming year and look forward to seeing you on the course, in the pro-shop and at the bar over the next 12 months. I hope you have weathered the festive season well and are in a positive frame of mind to take up the challenges that inevitably inhabit the game of golf.
It is anticipated that within the near future (read - "very soon") the new Club website will come on line. It is the Board's view that the website will become the main portal for communication to members and the role of the blog may well be incorporated into that process but be assured it is my declared intention to continue to bother you on a weekly basis!!
Opening days: Our Club programme does not normally appear until the last weeks of January so please note Mixed Opening Day is scheduled for 23 January 2010 - in all probability on the 9 hole course, while Men's Opening day has been booked for the 30 January hopefully over 18 holes. I know that Men's Opening Day does clash with the New Zealand Open but unfortunately that was unavoidable given date changes.
Clearwater Match: Normally with the PGA on the horizon we would host Clearwater in one of our twice yearly challenges however with the course reduced to 9 holes we thought it better to visit them. Accordingly this Saturday 16 January we will be playing Clearwater at Clearwater for the Shirwater Trophy (currently held by Clearwater). The entry sheet is at the pro-shop so please get your name down as soon as possible so you can be entered in the draw. Subsequent registration is at Clearwater from 11.00am on Saturday with a shotgun start at 12.00. The cost is $30 which covers prizes and a meal at the conclusion of the round. Please note that this is a Mixed match so all Lady members are welcome to play!!
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