I am a confirmed adherent of organisations having a strong communication strategy, so when I initially commenced "blogging" I saw it very much as a vehicle to disseminate information that might otherwise be lost or over-looked while extending the opportunity of interspersing the occasional humorous anecdote.
The arrival of the updated website I believe has been a catalyst in the revitalisation of the information flow within the Club and has in recent weeks caused me to consider the nature, form and extent of the blog. I wonder whether in fact the blog in its present form has perhaps reached its use by date??
Because of "ownership" issues my assessment of the blog may not be as objective as the discerning reader but I do not wish to reiterate information already provided or step on the toes of the number of excellent new correspondents. As I continue to cogitate on the issue your thoughts and views would be welcomed!!
In the interim I will see you at Shirley if not before and hopefully the next blog issue will not be so long in coming forth!!
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Alternate Course Trial..........
The trial of the Alternate course finishes as at the 30 April and will be initially reviewed at the next Board meeting. Accordingly we are now seeking feedback from members as to how they believe the trial has gone and any perceived advantages or disadvantages. Please feel free to either speak or email Struan or if you prefer I am a available to receive any comments as is any member of the Board. It would be great if we could have your views by Friday 7 May.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
What's Happening Week of 26 April............
A number of members head to Hanmer for the Alpine Classic this weekend and we wish them well on their travels - a report is eagerly anticipated in due course. From past experience I am sure that a good time will be had by all and stamina may play a significant part in determining eventual success. A late call to Ben Frampton could possibly still get you in the field but do not push your luck too far. Earlier in the week accommodation was available at Marchmont Gardens behind the second green so you may still be able to get a bed.
For those of us staying at home this is the day for the older of the club members with the J O Jameson Cup for members 60 years of age (or over) a par handicap competition or a stableford 1 grade for the rest of us.
Mentioned below is the Pollock Cup being played on Sunday at Christchurch where I know the Christchurch team would appreciate your support.
For those of us staying at home this is the day for the older of the club members with the J O Jameson Cup for members 60 years of age (or over) a par handicap competition or a stableford 1 grade for the rest of us.
Mentioned below is the Pollock Cup being played on Sunday at Christchurch where I know the Christchurch team would appreciate your support.
The Heritage Visit............
One of the greatest benefits of being a member of the Christchurch Golf Club is the number of inter club fixtures that give everyone the opportunity to participate. By comparison to some others matches the Trans Tasman fixture with the Heritage is relatively new but already it augers well for the future with ANZAC weekend now being designated as the date going forward.
The connection originally fostered by Barry & Robyn Fletcher (who hold dual membership) and incorporating a mixed format continues to flourish notwithstanding the Christchurch team has been in receipt of the thin edge of the wedge. With play reduced to 9 holes on the Saturday due to the inclement weather Christchurch held a slender lead in the overall stableford scoring - perhaps this was the year to hoist the trophy for the first time.
It may well have been that some Christchurch members may have over indulged on the Saturday afternoon and evening as the Heritage rallied on Sunday while some of the Christchurch players seemed to have gone missing in action. Rod & Rose O'Brien lead the Christchurch charge but ultimately the 801 points fell agonisingly short of the 813 recorded by Heritage and once more the Trophy returns to the West Island.
The match was played in a tremendous spirit of competition and from my observations the social events were played even harder!! I am sure that Barry and Robyn will have no difficulty in filling the team for the return journey in 2011 - where we win away from home!!
The connection originally fostered by Barry & Robyn Fletcher (who hold dual membership) and incorporating a mixed format continues to flourish notwithstanding the Christchurch team has been in receipt of the thin edge of the wedge. With play reduced to 9 holes on the Saturday due to the inclement weather Christchurch held a slender lead in the overall stableford scoring - perhaps this was the year to hoist the trophy for the first time.
It may well have been that some Christchurch members may have over indulged on the Saturday afternoon and evening as the Heritage rallied on Sunday while some of the Christchurch players seemed to have gone missing in action. Rod & Rose O'Brien lead the Christchurch charge but ultimately the 801 points fell agonisingly short of the 813 recorded by Heritage and once more the Trophy returns to the West Island.
The match was played in a tremendous spirit of competition and from my observations the social events were played even harder!! I am sure that Barry and Robyn will have no difficulty in filling the team for the return journey in 2011 - where we win away from home!!
Australian Cup..........
Saturday 24 April saw the competition of the day designated as a stroke round for the Australian Cup. Mirroring his previous good form for the Metro team Peter Davey was the overall winner with a nett 68.
The Seniors was closely contested with a countback required to separate Hiroshi Naka and Ciaran Selwyn on 70 while another put Peter Sim ahead of Garry Urlwin on 71. Dodge Healy was just the best of the Intermediates on 69 again by countback from Peter Hollister with revitalised Brent Musgrave on 70 and Simon Carter on 72. the score of 69 was popular with the Juniors with 3 recorded in order Don Rae, John Sinclair, Alan Woodfield while Garth Roundtree & Doug McCaul both had 71.
Apart from that, despite the weather, it was really a benefit for Phil Loughnan. Braving the conditions Phil collected 2x2 ($24 each) to win the jackpot ($360), a closest to the pin ($35) and closest to the pin on 18 sponsored by Linden Leaves. All in all William Wootton was lucky to get $35 for the other par 3 and be able to move on. A great effort Phil well done particularly as you played in the afternoon with the worst of the conditions & perhaps it was a shame the nett eagles avoided you where the pot was not struck after 15 (normal 10) was drawn.
The Seniors was closely contested with a countback required to separate Hiroshi Naka and Ciaran Selwyn on 70 while another put Peter Sim ahead of Garry Urlwin on 71. Dodge Healy was just the best of the Intermediates on 69 again by countback from Peter Hollister with revitalised Brent Musgrave on 70 and Simon Carter on 72. the score of 69 was popular with the Juniors with 3 recorded in order Don Rae, John Sinclair, Alan Woodfield while Garth Roundtree & Doug McCaul both had 71.
Apart from that, despite the weather, it was really a benefit for Phil Loughnan. Braving the conditions Phil collected 2x2 ($24 each) to win the jackpot ($360), a closest to the pin ($35) and closest to the pin on 18 sponsored by Linden Leaves. All in all William Wootton was lucky to get $35 for the other par 3 and be able to move on. A great effort Phil well done particularly as you played in the afternoon with the worst of the conditions & perhaps it was a shame the nett eagles avoided you where the pot was not struck after 15 (normal 10) was drawn.
The Wood Trowel..............
The Wood Trowel weekend is always a highlight in the club calendar and this year once again it did not disappoint. A tremendous amount of organisation goes into making this both an enjoyable and successful weekend, although thanked on the day we again extend our gratitude to the hard working team - Bryan Andrews as auctioneer, Ian Wagstaff as the scribe on the board, Struan Cain as the recorder and Dennis Maguire as the checker - your efforts were much appreciated.
After an outstanding qualifying score of 45 points Jeff Suddens was top qualifier and rearranged his Sunday to participate in the finals along with 32 others who were available and recorded 34 points (on countback) or better. Grant Mitchell shot a meritorious 43 points but was unavailable for the second day however Anthony Seeto who recorded the same score was in the field.
Two's were worth a staggering $31.25 each for the 8 winners and nearest the pins, of which I was one and Chris Brockett the other, received $50. Marty Holman was closest to the pin on 18 for 2 as sponsored by Linden Leaves. Neither the jackpot nor nett eagles was struck and carried forward. The dinner and evening was an outstanding success, in large part to the efforts of Amanda Andrew and their team, and the stage was well and truly set for the battle on the morrow.
An advantage of the Alternate course it that you receive an update after 9 holes and it was apparent as the groups moved through that the scores were of the highest calibre and it would take an exceptional effort to reach the head of the pack!! Joe Mullins had set the early pace with 23 on the front 9 with last year's second place getter Grant Adamson still in the hunt after putting together a tidy 20 points.
Joe played to his handicap coming home to finish with a score of 41 points but Grant pulled out all the stops and compiled a healthy 22 to emerge as a worthy winner with 42 points. Close behind came Peter Hollister on 39 with David Barley on 38, in many past years such scores would have guaranteed a win but alas it was not so in 2010.
For me as Club Captain it was encouraging to see so many of the members arriving at the Club as the afternoon progressed to watch the participants hole out and I believe it created a very special atmosphere and one that typifies the Christchurch Golf Club. Congratulations to all the winners you played well to the rest of us there is always next year!!
After an outstanding qualifying score of 45 points Jeff Suddens was top qualifier and rearranged his Sunday to participate in the finals along with 32 others who were available and recorded 34 points (on countback) or better. Grant Mitchell shot a meritorious 43 points but was unavailable for the second day however Anthony Seeto who recorded the same score was in the field.
Two's were worth a staggering $31.25 each for the 8 winners and nearest the pins, of which I was one and Chris Brockett the other, received $50. Marty Holman was closest to the pin on 18 for 2 as sponsored by Linden Leaves. Neither the jackpot nor nett eagles was struck and carried forward. The dinner and evening was an outstanding success, in large part to the efforts of Amanda Andrew and their team, and the stage was well and truly set for the battle on the morrow.
An advantage of the Alternate course it that you receive an update after 9 holes and it was apparent as the groups moved through that the scores were of the highest calibre and it would take an exceptional effort to reach the head of the pack!! Joe Mullins had set the early pace with 23 on the front 9 with last year's second place getter Grant Adamson still in the hunt after putting together a tidy 20 points.
Joe played to his handicap coming home to finish with a score of 41 points but Grant pulled out all the stops and compiled a healthy 22 to emerge as a worthy winner with 42 points. Close behind came Peter Hollister on 39 with David Barley on 38, in many past years such scores would have guaranteed a win but alas it was not so in 2010.
For me as Club Captain it was encouraging to see so many of the members arriving at the Club as the afternoon progressed to watch the participants hole out and I believe it created a very special atmosphere and one that typifies the Christchurch Golf Club. Congratulations to all the winners you played well to the rest of us there is always next year!!
Masters Weekend................
Given publication delays it now seems some time ago that we hosted the Christchurch Casino Masters Charity Golf Tournament however it is appropriate to record that it was an outstanding success and a tribute to the organisers Fore J Productions (Jerry, Julie, Jack and Jonesy) with over $100k being raised for charitable purposes.
Saturday saw a splendid club day with an awe inspiring prize table which Rose O'Brien visited first with a sensational 45 stableford points. Another appearing early in the prize list was Karl Kitchingham who shot one of his best rounds ever at Shirley with a 66 off the stick- the rumour was that it could have even been lower with an ounce of luck.
Using a nett formula for the next two days competition was exceptionally competitive and a number of low scores were posted. Emerging as the overall winner was former club member Michael Stenhouse but we were well represented amongst the prize recipients with Niven Boyle, Brian Ronan, Grant Mitchell, Simon Carter, Barry O'Neill and Joe Mullins all in the frame.
Joe's team from Progressive First National Realty just missed out to the Temuka Transport team in the Team's event while Noel Chambers collected the prize for the lowest score when combined with a drawn professional from the Masters. Although as a professional he was not eligible to win prizes Ant Doyle set the course alight with a 68 on Sunday followed by a 63 on the Monday. In recognition of his efforts the organisers and Harvey Norman made a special award which everyone thought was a lovely touch.
Playing in the competition under the auspice of Vbase my golf was of a limited standard but due to the kind offices of the sponsor I did manage to be in the Best Dressed Team award.
Saturday saw a splendid club day with an awe inspiring prize table which Rose O'Brien visited first with a sensational 45 stableford points. Another appearing early in the prize list was Karl Kitchingham who shot one of his best rounds ever at Shirley with a 66 off the stick- the rumour was that it could have even been lower with an ounce of luck.
Using a nett formula for the next two days competition was exceptionally competitive and a number of low scores were posted. Emerging as the overall winner was former club member Michael Stenhouse but we were well represented amongst the prize recipients with Niven Boyle, Brian Ronan, Grant Mitchell, Simon Carter, Barry O'Neill and Joe Mullins all in the frame.
Joe's team from Progressive First National Realty just missed out to the Temuka Transport team in the Team's event while Noel Chambers collected the prize for the lowest score when combined with a drawn professional from the Masters. Although as a professional he was not eligible to win prizes Ant Doyle set the course alight with a 68 on Sunday followed by a 63 on the Monday. In recognition of his efforts the organisers and Harvey Norman made a special award which everyone thought was a lovely touch.
Playing in the competition under the auspice of Vbase my golf was of a limited standard but due to the kind offices of the sponsor I did manage to be in the Best Dressed Team award.
Further Inter Club Round Up..........
Over the weekend on Saturday Blank lost at Waimairi Beach in a result that we will not outline further apart from saying it was as dismissal as the weather. Congratulations to Glenn Bongartz & Russell Feldis who at least got us on the board.
At home on Sunday against Templeton Metro had another win to maintain its position amongst the leaders. Full reports are posted on the club website!
Simon goes forth this weekend at Avondale in a match previously postponed while our Women's Pollock Cup team plays in the finals weekend on Sunday at home at Shirley - all support greatly appreciated.
At home on Sunday against Templeton Metro had another win to maintain its position amongst the leaders. Full reports are posted on the club website!
Simon goes forth this weekend at Avondale in a match previously postponed while our Women's Pollock Cup team plays in the finals weekend on Sunday at home at Shirley - all support greatly appreciated.
Matchplay - Cards & Dates...............
As a reminder please note that it is the current policy of New Zealand Golf for match play cards to be entered at the end of the match. While it was previously envisaged that the rule may change this has not eventuated so please comply with the policy failure to submit a card may mean disqualification from the event or a "par" round being entered on your behalf!!
For the avoidance of doubt the club ruling on the playing of match competitions, such as Godby or Top Dog, is as follows: Members should use their best endeavours to arrange matches at a time and on a date convenient to both parties. Where no date can be agreed the match will be played on the last eligible date, where one party is unable to play the other party shall be deemed to win by default, if neither party is able to play on the last date then the match will be decided on the toss of a coin.
In the event of any dispute in regards match arrangements they should in the first instance be referred to me as Club Captain. Please note there are almost no circumstances apart from plague and death that will result in the granting of an extension of time!!
For the avoidance of doubt the club ruling on the playing of match competitions, such as Godby or Top Dog, is as follows: Members should use their best endeavours to arrange matches at a time and on a date convenient to both parties. Where no date can be agreed the match will be played on the last eligible date, where one party is unable to play the other party shall be deemed to win by default, if neither party is able to play on the last date then the match will be decided on the toss of a coin.
In the event of any dispute in regards match arrangements they should in the first instance be referred to me as Club Captain. Please note there are almost no circumstances apart from plague and death that will result in the granting of an extension of time!!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Junior Golf..........
Under Ant's supervision Junior Golf continues to flourish! Last weekend we recorded two wins and a loss in the inter club competition. It seems as though Finals day beckons for at least one of our teams.
The Club had a great representation at the South Island Under 19 champs held at Levels Timaru. In a great effort Tom Pearson won the U13 grade by three shots from another Christchurch member Marcel Boet. In the U15's Jack Harling finished second while Henry Pearson with a final round 76 came in 5th. Jordan Bakermans also managed 5th in the U17's while Andrew Caldwell made it to 7th in the U19's. A wonderful performance by all those who attended and in addition we have been informed from outside sources that you were a credit to the Club during the competition.
The Club had a great representation at the South Island Under 19 champs held at Levels Timaru. In a great effort Tom Pearson won the U13 grade by three shots from another Christchurch member Marcel Boet. In the U15's Jack Harling finished second while Henry Pearson with a final round 76 came in 5th. Jordan Bakermans also managed 5th in the U17's while Andrew Caldwell made it to 7th in the U19's. A wonderful performance by all those who attended and in addition we have been informed from outside sources that you were a credit to the Club during the competition.
Inter Club Roundup...............
The inter club season continues with some competitions concluding while others are only in their formative stages.
Our Women's Pollock Cup team have moved through into the finals notwithstanding a last round loss to Waimairi Beach. Unfortunately there were a number of absences from the team but they should be a full strength for the finals to be held at Shirley on Sunday 2 May. We wish them well and I am sure they would appreciate any support around the course on the day!
The President's team concluded their competition with another win taking the unbeaten streak to seven games. Overall they ended up tied for third on points but fourth on games; a great effort after a sluggish start to the season. Congratulations to Dennis Doherty and all the team members for a splendid finishing run.
For over 5 years, or effectively as long as records exist, the Metro team has not won on the road, but that dismal record came to a shuddering halt with a fine win at Rawhiti 6.5 to 1.5. Wins were recorded by Glenn Bongartz, Don Forbes, Ben Frampton, Steve Savill, Garry Forward, & JD with a half to Ross Campbell. It is a relief to have the "bogey" finally put to bed and hopefully it is a omen for the balance of the competition which returns to Shirley this Sunday with a key match up against Templeton.
Blank kicked off their season with a hard fought victory over Harewood 5 games to three at home (we confused the opposition with the Alternate Course). Wins were recorded by the Dunn brothers (Paul & Mark) and Rod Hayes while 4 other matches were halved - Russell Fildes, Charles Whitwham, Ian MacDonald and Brad Clark. Their next assignment is against Waimairi away on Saturday so we are looking for two in a row with a strong team already having been named.
Simon continued to perform creditably but fell tantalisingly short off its first victory losing away to Avondale 4.5 to 3.5 when a win or at least a half seemed on the cards. With growing experience and increased matchplay competition Simon will soon hit their straps and start putting ticks in the win column. This Saturday they travel away to Windsor and we wish Ant and the team all the best.
The Club website continues to show full match reports and team announcements so head there if you require any further information.
Our Women's Pollock Cup team have moved through into the finals notwithstanding a last round loss to Waimairi Beach. Unfortunately there were a number of absences from the team but they should be a full strength for the finals to be held at Shirley on Sunday 2 May. We wish them well and I am sure they would appreciate any support around the course on the day!
The President's team concluded their competition with another win taking the unbeaten streak to seven games. Overall they ended up tied for third on points but fourth on games; a great effort after a sluggish start to the season. Congratulations to Dennis Doherty and all the team members for a splendid finishing run.
For over 5 years, or effectively as long as records exist, the Metro team has not won on the road, but that dismal record came to a shuddering halt with a fine win at Rawhiti 6.5 to 1.5. Wins were recorded by Glenn Bongartz, Don Forbes, Ben Frampton, Steve Savill, Garry Forward, & JD with a half to Ross Campbell. It is a relief to have the "bogey" finally put to bed and hopefully it is a omen for the balance of the competition which returns to Shirley this Sunday with a key match up against Templeton.
Blank kicked off their season with a hard fought victory over Harewood 5 games to three at home (we confused the opposition with the Alternate Course). Wins were recorded by the Dunn brothers (Paul & Mark) and Rod Hayes while 4 other matches were halved - Russell Fildes, Charles Whitwham, Ian MacDonald and Brad Clark. Their next assignment is against Waimairi away on Saturday so we are looking for two in a row with a strong team already having been named.
Simon continued to perform creditably but fell tantalisingly short off its first victory losing away to Avondale 4.5 to 3.5 when a win or at least a half seemed on the cards. With growing experience and increased matchplay competition Simon will soon hit their straps and start putting ticks in the win column. This Saturday they travel away to Windsor and we wish Ant and the team all the best.
The Club website continues to show full match reports and team announcements so head there if you require any further information.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Thought For The Week.................
"I am" is reportedly the shortest sentence in the English language. Could it be that "I do" is the longest sentence?............(Think about it!!!)
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
The Girlfriend.............
Over the past few weeks I have been subjected to criticism for my references in the blog to "the girlfriend". These comments have been heard and discussed with "the girlfriend" particularly in continuing to establish blog boundaries! After significant negotiations the girlfriend has agreed that in the future she may be referred to as "Stephanie". At some later date this may be shortened to "Steph" but at the moment the full appellation will apply.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Events Galore.............
It appears Autumn is the season in which to play golf as the calendar is chock- a - block full of exciting events.
In conjunction with the Masters at Augusta Shirley plays host to the Christchurch Casino Charity Masters on Sunday 11 April and Monday 12, prefaced by the a club event on the Saturday - a shotgun start morning and afternoon. Please get involved on the Saturday as this is a wonderful event for a great cause.
The following weekend 17 & 18 April is The Wood Trowel an event not to be missed as it is always a highlight and turns Saturday golfers into hard nosed professionals in the twinkling of an eye. For further details speak either with me or Struan in the office.
On ANZAC Day (25 April) an appropriate date we welcome the Heritage Golf Club to Shirley for the Trans Tasman Trophy. This is a mixed event and we look to capture the trophy even if the handicaps will favour the Australians!!
The first weekend in May ushers in not only the duck shooting season but also the Alpine Classic at Hanmer. Beginning with a practice round on Friday 30 April there are two rounds of competition on Saturday 1 May and Sunday 2 May with associated social events. For details and particulars please speak with Ben Frampton.
In amongst all this activity the first rounds of the Page Trophy and Top Dog competitions are to be played so please check the noticeboards for the cut off dates. Any questions or queries please speak with either Struan or me - note that except for death no extensions will be granted!!
In conjunction with the Masters at Augusta Shirley plays host to the Christchurch Casino Charity Masters on Sunday 11 April and Monday 12, prefaced by the a club event on the Saturday - a shotgun start morning and afternoon. Please get involved on the Saturday as this is a wonderful event for a great cause.
The following weekend 17 & 18 April is The Wood Trowel an event not to be missed as it is always a highlight and turns Saturday golfers into hard nosed professionals in the twinkling of an eye. For further details speak either with me or Struan in the office.
On ANZAC Day (25 April) an appropriate date we welcome the Heritage Golf Club to Shirley for the Trans Tasman Trophy. This is a mixed event and we look to capture the trophy even if the handicaps will favour the Australians!!
The first weekend in May ushers in not only the duck shooting season but also the Alpine Classic at Hanmer. Beginning with a practice round on Friday 30 April there are two rounds of competition on Saturday 1 May and Sunday 2 May with associated social events. For details and particulars please speak with Ben Frampton.
In amongst all this activity the first rounds of the Page Trophy and Top Dog competitions are to be played so please check the noticeboards for the cut off dates. Any questions or queries please speak with either Struan or me - note that except for death no extensions will be granted!!
Around The Course......
The greens have been lightly spiked and sanded last week in order to provide drainage during the winter months. Given the minimal nature of the process the greens have already healed well and should be back to their best within a very few days!!
You will have noticed that a number of "gum trees" have recently been removed. This culling was undertaken after discussions with Peter Thomson as to which trees were not in play as we seek to further reduce on going maintenance around the course. With their growing habits gums are "dirty" trees shedding leaves, bark and often branches at regular intervals while sucking up substantial amounts of water and reducing the surrounding ground to a barren wasteland. With additional mounding and reseeding these areas will be vastly improved to the benefit of the course.
We have seen the first week of the Alternate course in play and we are keen to receive feedback from members as to their views on the benefits or otherwise of the change. Generally the comments seem to be of a positive nature but it is to be expected that there will be the odd teething problem so give the layout a fair chance. Hopefully we have not lost too many golfers out there!!
You will have noticed that a number of "gum trees" have recently been removed. This culling was undertaken after discussions with Peter Thomson as to which trees were not in play as we seek to further reduce on going maintenance around the course. With their growing habits gums are "dirty" trees shedding leaves, bark and often branches at regular intervals while sucking up substantial amounts of water and reducing the surrounding ground to a barren wasteland. With additional mounding and reseeding these areas will be vastly improved to the benefit of the course.
We have seen the first week of the Alternate course in play and we are keen to receive feedback from members as to their views on the benefits or otherwise of the change. Generally the comments seem to be of a positive nature but it is to be expected that there will be the odd teething problem so give the layout a fair chance. Hopefully we have not lost too many golfers out there!!
Centennial Jug.........
Easter Monday saw a smaller than usual field line up for the mixed event, however whatever was lacking in quantity was clearly compensated for in quality. In a strong, slightly chilling easterly the conditions were testing for a Teams Ambrose Event but that did not seem to faze the combination of Roger & Joanna Gowans and Rodney & Margaret Trowsdale who put together a nett 55 to be at the front of the field.
Close behind were Peter & Catherine Phelan and Alan & Karyn Scott with 56 including three two's (one on each of the par 3's!!) - a very fine effort. Following one shot further back were Andrew & Robyn Gillespie with Struan & Terry Cain while in fourth were Bruce & Ruth Cooper and Simon Fraser & Kate Shier on 59.
The prizes, were appropriately, Easter eggs that seemed to be very well received there was a great choice between Moro's, Flakes and chocolate buttons!! Given the cold conditions it was wonderful to finish the day with a meal of Roast Pork (with loads of crackling) and a crumble with cream!! The next Mixed Event is scheduled for Sunday 9 May for the AEG Rhodes Bowl a four-ball par competition.
Close behind were Peter & Catherine Phelan and Alan & Karyn Scott with 56 including three two's (one on each of the par 3's!!) - a very fine effort. Following one shot further back were Andrew & Robyn Gillespie with Struan & Terry Cain while in fourth were Bruce & Ruth Cooper and Simon Fraser & Kate Shier on 59.
The prizes, were appropriately, Easter eggs that seemed to be very well received there was a great choice between Moro's, Flakes and chocolate buttons!! Given the cold conditions it was wonderful to finish the day with a meal of Roast Pork (with loads of crackling) and a crumble with cream!! The next Mixed Event is scheduled for Sunday 9 May for the AEG Rhodes Bowl a four-ball par competition.
Club Champs..........
In many ways the finals day of the club champs is one of the highlights of the season and it was good to see a number of members out and about on the course following the games despite the chilly wind.
The Plate sections were competed for over 18 holes but that did not lessen the level of competition. In the Seniors Tracy Tatom did battle with Peter Sim in a match that went down to the 16th before Tracy secured a 3/2 win. Steve Ellis had played steady golf to reach the final against David Barley but this was not be his day and he fell to David at the conclusion of the 14th. An interesting game between Jim Glass and Grant Borrie developed in the Juniors which saw Jim the emerge the victor where he continued to find fairways and greens.
With the championship matches played over 36 holes the first round saw them all evenly poised after18. Having started the round with 5 straight birdies Richard Reed lead John Sanders by two at the break after JB had fought back over the next 12 holes only to be one down before losing 18 to a birdie. William Wotton was 1 up against Jim Paulsen while in the Juniors Don Forbes and Graham Purkis were all square.
In the afternoon each of the matches seemed to take a different course. Don Forbes quickly found his "A" game and built up a healthy lead over the road that Graham was unable to pin back so Don was successful in defending his title. Don would say he was lucky to be in the final after Stephen Boyd took him to the 19th on the previous day with Don winning 18 to extend the match.
The Intermediates developed into a ding dong battle but ever so slowly Jim Paulsen started to exert control belying the fact he had come off night shift straight to the course. In a strong display of stamina Jim was good enough to close out the game at the 33rd hole.
Meanwhile in the Seniors Richard Reed had once again started quickly to extend his lead. JB was forced into playing catch up as they traded holes during the mid part of the round and was quickly facing the requirement of having to win a string of holes if he was to stay in the match. Although playing well JB was not quite able to match Richard and the championship was decided on the 34th hole when Richard played a superb approach putt that then required JB to hole out from the greenside bunker a task that he just failed to achieve. It was a great win for Richard who had played some sparkling golf throughout the day and emerged as a deserved champion.
It is interesting to note that both Richard and Jim hold dual memberships also playing at Avondale, it may well be that the discipline of playing on a tighter course served them well in their quest for the club titles!!
The Plate sections were competed for over 18 holes but that did not lessen the level of competition. In the Seniors Tracy Tatom did battle with Peter Sim in a match that went down to the 16th before Tracy secured a 3/2 win. Steve Ellis had played steady golf to reach the final against David Barley but this was not be his day and he fell to David at the conclusion of the 14th. An interesting game between Jim Glass and Grant Borrie developed in the Juniors which saw Jim the emerge the victor where he continued to find fairways and greens.
With the championship matches played over 36 holes the first round saw them all evenly poised after18. Having started the round with 5 straight birdies Richard Reed lead John Sanders by two at the break after JB had fought back over the next 12 holes only to be one down before losing 18 to a birdie. William Wotton was 1 up against Jim Paulsen while in the Juniors Don Forbes and Graham Purkis were all square.
In the afternoon each of the matches seemed to take a different course. Don Forbes quickly found his "A" game and built up a healthy lead over the road that Graham was unable to pin back so Don was successful in defending his title. Don would say he was lucky to be in the final after Stephen Boyd took him to the 19th on the previous day with Don winning 18 to extend the match.
The Intermediates developed into a ding dong battle but ever so slowly Jim Paulsen started to exert control belying the fact he had come off night shift straight to the course. In a strong display of stamina Jim was good enough to close out the game at the 33rd hole.
Meanwhile in the Seniors Richard Reed had once again started quickly to extend his lead. JB was forced into playing catch up as they traded holes during the mid part of the round and was quickly facing the requirement of having to win a string of holes if he was to stay in the match. Although playing well JB was not quite able to match Richard and the championship was decided on the 34th hole when Richard played a superb approach putt that then required JB to hole out from the greenside bunker a task that he just failed to achieve. It was a great win for Richard who had played some sparkling golf throughout the day and emerged as a deserved champion.
It is interesting to note that both Richard and Jim hold dual memberships also playing at Avondale, it may well be that the discipline of playing on a tighter course served them well in their quest for the club titles!!
Inter Club Roundup..............
Unfortunately the run of away losses for the Metro team continued when they visited Avondale a week ago with a final score line of 5 games to 3. The team was in with a chance after wins to Steve Hicks, Ross Campbell and Mr JD but the home team finished the last nine holes slightly stronger and it was enough to shut the gate.
A full report from Steve Ellis is on the Club website for those that want further details. The team finishes its eastern seaboard swing with a match away at Rawhiti on Sunday and Steve has already named a combination that he thinks will do the business including Glenn Bongartz at one and Don Forbes at eight. We wish them all the best in this next challenge.
By comparison the President's grade team under the control of Dennis Doherty has hit the ground running in 2010. A spell of home games has seen them put together a streak of 6 wins and challenging for a position in the top three. Their final game is at Windsor on Sunday against McLean's Island a bit of a bogey team in the past however I am sure Dennis will want to finish with a flourish and keep the run alive!
Saturday sees round two of inter club. Our Blank Cup team makes its debut at Christchurch while Simon ventures away to Avondale. The Blank team boosts a host of experienced players and it is to be hoped they can start the season with a victory - good luck. The tight nature of Avondale may well be suited to our young Simon team who will be looking to build on their first round half.
Reports on all these games will of course follow early next week.
A full report from Steve Ellis is on the Club website for those that want further details. The team finishes its eastern seaboard swing with a match away at Rawhiti on Sunday and Steve has already named a combination that he thinks will do the business including Glenn Bongartz at one and Don Forbes at eight. We wish them all the best in this next challenge.
By comparison the President's grade team under the control of Dennis Doherty has hit the ground running in 2010. A spell of home games has seen them put together a streak of 6 wins and challenging for a position in the top three. Their final game is at Windsor on Sunday against McLean's Island a bit of a bogey team in the past however I am sure Dennis will want to finish with a flourish and keep the run alive!
Saturday sees round two of inter club. Our Blank Cup team makes its debut at Christchurch while Simon ventures away to Avondale. The Blank team boosts a host of experienced players and it is to be hoped they can start the season with a victory - good luck. The tight nature of Avondale may well be suited to our young Simon team who will be looking to build on their first round half.
Reports on all these games will of course follow early next week.
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