Golfer Pacific NZ – July 2026

TThe winter blues; bring on summer

By Paul Gueorgieff Editor, Golfer Pacific NZ

his is the time of the year I like to see the back of.

At the time of writing I had not played a game of golf for ages — well, that’s what it feels like.

How long is ages? In my case, six days.

Two of my regular days — Thursday and Saturday — were ruled out because of the weather; and that hurts.

I usually play at least three times a week and during daylight saving it’s four days a week with twilight golf on a Friday evening.

Twilight golf is one of my delights. I run the event at my club and I took it on about five years ago in frustration it had been in mothballs for years.

I reckon it’s one of the best events at my club — but I would say that — because it provides a good mixture of men and women. I once, jokingly, said I would have to put a limit on the number of women. Reminder, that was a joke.

Twilight golf at my club is also a good chance for members to meet other members because it is a shotgun start with a random draw of who plays with who. The same four don’t get to play with the same four every week as is often the case at other clubs where twilight golf is a rolling start.

I also get to tell jokes when addressing players beforehand and afterwards.  When they don’t laugh at my jokes, I have to tell them that was a joke. Some then politely laugh out loud and others then genuinely laugh

even louder.

But back to the glooms of winter. When we had the shortest day of the year on Sunday, June 21 (the day was apparently only 24 hours long), I looked up how much earlier sunrise would be the day after.

It was four seconds. I suddenly felt better. Summer was on the way. I am now having to put blankets over the curtains in the bedroom to keep out the early sunrises. That’s a joke. You can now politely laugh.

I usually play golf most Saturdays and Sundays. I don’t feel guilty doing so because when I was a horse racing journalist I used to work every Saturday and Sunday.

As a consequence I did not play golf for 35 years as Saturdays and Sundays were the main golfing days.

Nowadays I play golf and retain my interest in horse racing. I run a betting syndicate at my club and have got others involved in horse ownership.

The betting syndicate makes thousands of dollars every year and the horses we own bring in millions of dollars. That’s two jokes. You can now politely laugh — or is that scoffs I hear?

One of the horses we race is called Weneedashock. He won five races on the flat for Otaki trainer Howie Mathews and is now in the Palmerston North stable of renowned jumps trainers Shaun and Hazel Fannin.

Weneedashock last month won his hurdling debut in most impressive fashion at the Waikato track of Te Aroha. Keep an eye out for him in future jumps racing. That’s not a joke.

The mysteries of New York golf fans as Wyndham Clark chalks up second US Open win

By Paul Gueorgieff, editor Golfer Pacific

It was hard to understand.

As Wyndham Clark battled his way to victory in the United States Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in New York last month he had to withstand constant boos and negative remarks from many in the crowd.

The comments could be heard on the television coverage in New Zealand and it seemed odd that Americans would boo an American.

It was reported that one spectator was ejected for shouting: “Don’t choke, Wyndham,” as Clark set up for his tee shot on the fourth hole in the final round.

There were also constant shouts of: “Get in the bunker” when Clark hit a shot and instead of screams of delight when he holed a good putt there was instead loud sighs of disappointment.

It was reported that several spectators were ejected from the course for vulgar or inappropriate comments.

So what was this all about?

At the previous year’s US Open, Clark was banned from the Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania for smashing his locker in anger after missing the cut. Clark has since paid for the damage and apologised for his actions.

Another comment heard during the last round at Shinnecock Hills was: “Let’s not break any lockers today, Wyndham. Nobody likes you.”

Clark was involved in an-

other incident last year. That came at the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow in North Carolina when he threw a driver with the club nearly hitting a course marshal.

The negativity at Shinnecock Hills did not go unnoticed by Clark.

After his win he said: “New York didn’t really like me – I love you guys.

“But I get it. Some of it’s self-deserved. I did some unfortunate things last year that I really regret, and I’ve been sorry multiple times and I’m still sorry, so hopefully I can win you guys over eventually.”

This reaction from the New York crowd came less than a year after the 2025 Ryder Cup when the behaviour by the New York crowd was even more despicable. On that occasion there was a tumultuous atmosphere in which a barrage of personal attacks were shouted at the European team, in particular Rory McIlroy.

So did Clark deserve what he got or are New York crowds the rudist in the world? What Clark did deserve was victory. He was the leader after each of the first three rounds of the tournament and

foot birdie putt for a two-shot lead with two holes to play.

It was a signature moment but met with muted applause from the crowd.

Clark bogeyed the 17th but he got home with a par on the 18th to secure his second US Open win. The first had come three years earlier at the 2023 US Open in Los Angeles.

Said Clark of his US Open wins: “The first one was amazing, and this one seems even better.

“I think especially after such a sour taste last year in this championship, to have some redemption and win this again is almost surreal.”

There was also a reflection on his hot-headedness.

went into the last round with a six-shot lead.

But that lead crumbled quickly and after just five holes Clark’s advantage was down to just one shot. The turning point came at the par five 16th when, oddly enough, he hit a poor drive that saw his ball finish in some gnarly fescue grass.

He then gouged out with an iron which saw the ball narrowly clear a bunker. He then followed with an eight iron which saw the ball barely stay on the back of the green.

Then came his moment of the day when he rolled in a 30-

“I’m not getting angry as much as I used to,” the 32-year-old said. “I think I get frustrated. My anger has kind of gone away, which is a huge blessing. I’d say the frustration is kind of obviously there. Anyone gets it in golf.”

His second US Open win also completed some recent good form. A month earlier he had won the CJ Cup Byron Nelson in Texas and he how totals five wins on the PGA Tour.

The winner’s purse in the US Open was $US4.5 million. That’s $NZ7.8 million.

New Zealand golfer Ryan Fox had a good round of two under par in the final round to climb into 23rd position and earn $US181,000 ($NZ315,00).

Wyndham Clark celebrates victory in the 126th US Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club at Southampton in New York last month. (Photo credit: Kate McShane/Getty Images)

US Open fell short on several fronts

By Neville Idour

We could ask was the 2026 US Open one of the great majors?.

For this golf tragic the answer is a big no. Why? Several reasons, but none of them anything to do with Wyndham Clark who was never matched or headed.

Sadly, the boorish New York spectators took the mouldy cake again, maintaining their reputation earned at the last Ryder Cup.

Their ongoing hostility towards Clark was reprehensible. Clark had arrived with the goal of repairing his image after his locker room incident at Oakmont in the previous year’s US Open.

No chance of that with little respect or respite given by the abusive spectators. In fact on Sunday it breached it’s zenith so badly the police had to intervene and boot  several people off the course including one man with credentials as Clark teed up on hole four.

Shouts of “get in the bunker” and “don’t choke Wyndham” were common. But the hostility began before Sunday.

On Saturday evening, with the crowds sparse, one idiot yelled: “Bad

By Neville Idour

Fday to be a locker, Wyndham” as he walked past, in a dig at his meltdown at the 2025 US Open.

The hate was even extended beyond that after he was granted relief on the 17th after his tee shot found fescue grass near a camera stand. After removing some loose grass from his ball and having to drop the ball twice he was accused by people on line of gaming the rules, in other words cheating. This abuse continued despite officials confirming there was no violation of any rule.

Still, despite all the vitriol, boos and heckling he received through most of his four rounds, Clark, when asked about the atmosphere, put the blame squarely on himself, telling the media after his win: “New York didn’t really like me. I love you guys. But I get it. Some of it is self deserved. I did some unfortunate things last year that I really regret, and I’ve been sorry multiple times, and I’m still sorry, so hopefully I can win you guys over eventually. But I get it. They were rooting for Scottie. Grand slams only happen a few times. He’s going to get it. He’s the best player in the world. But today it’s my day.”

He further added: “I’ve gotten a lot of

grief since last year, rightfully so. The thing that’s unfortunate is what happened last year is not who I am. I’m hoping I can win back the fans that I had or some new fans because it was a terrible incident.

“I want to show people I’m fun and outgoing, fierce, competitive, love and respect the game, and I just had a bad moment.”

As for becoming the 24th player to win more than one US Open he said: “This one was redemption. Last year was so tough and I left this place in a shambles but it’s amazing what a year can do.”

Maybe it’s time to allow Clark to move on with the respect he now deserves. Also maybe it’s time for the USPGA and the PGA Tour to leave the New York district off the schedule for any major golf tournaments for 10 years, until their spectators learn how to behave.

One has to ask whether Shinnecock Hills would be better served to reshape many of the greens so that perfection is not required, just a very good shot in most cases.

The other aspect that fell short was some of the television coverage. It was so uneven at times that it was frustrating to try and catch up with players scores or even see some players. There was far too much of showing players not within a bulls roar of making the cut in the first two rounds and then in the final two rounds of players back in the field. Conversely there was little or no coverage of some near the leaders. Watching players on 16,12,10 and 8 over par quite regularly was ridiculous whereas some players in the top 20 were rarely, if ever, seen. After watching all four rounds I can only remember seeing Ryan Fox hit two shots/putts. Ridiculous.

The greens were another problem for players throughout the tournament with players constantly struggling to keep seemingly good shots to stay on the green. Time after time we saw shots land in the centre of greens or even before the centre and watch them roll slowly on and on and then imperceptibly trickle on far enough to catch the many slopes on the perimeters and gather pace to roll 10 to 30 metres from the green. It was painful to watch at times and it wasn’t as if the greens were bone dry or the winds were excessive.

Clark tames ugly beast best of all

or the somewhat unheralded Wyndham Clark, his second US Open triumph was a kind of redemption for past misdemeanours.

To achieve it the way he did after three bogeys in the first seven holes of the final round, while under the blowtorch of a fast catching Scottie Scheffler and others, was something to behold. However he never flinched, just gritted his teeth and kept the baying hounds at bay. What stood out was his ability to save par on several occasions when faced with difficult recovery shots. Then he showed admirable ability to sink several clutch knee-knocking putts of four to 10 feet. Scottie Scheffler briefly threatened but his failure to birdie the par five 16th in the last round saw his challenge end with an angry

outburst in frustration as his putt just missed the hole. Sam Burns was the main challenger but just could not nail a putt on 18 to force a playoff. One of the most remarkable efforts came from Joaquin Niemann who had a disastrous first round 78. Two under after five holes, he manufactured a jaw dropping 11 on the sixth, a par four, then added two more bogeys. However a superb 65 in the second round saw him nicely inside the cut line. His eventual finish of seventh was a minor triumph. Dustin Johnson found an overdue groove with an excellent first round 66, including eight birdies, to be just two shots from the lead. He was still there after 10 holes in the second round, then hit the wall dropping eight shots in the next five holes, including a horror eight on the par four 15th. Through it all,  you had to admire his

stoic decorum which revealed no visible anger at all. He would eventually finish 32nd after closing rounds of 71 and 72.

Then we had Jon Rahm looking good after a first round bogey free 68. However he too unravelled going from even par after 11 holes in the second round to six over par just five holes later and miss the cut by two shots.  Rory McIlroy, after a first round 69 which had him well placed, never threatened thereafter, eventually finishing 32nd.

New Zealander Ryan Fox battled away and was rewarded with an excellent final round 68 to finish 23rd. In the end the plaudits deservedly went to Wyndam Clark who was the one player to tame the beastly greens at Shinnecock Hills.

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US Open briefs

By Neville Idour

Rory McIlroy embarrasses abusive fan

A fan in the crowd was put in his place by Rory McIlroy after a tee shot. The culprit got too personal screaming for the ball to go in the bunker, then kept on shouting as McIlroy left the tee area.

It looked like McIlroy was going to completely ignore the fool. But no. Just before he left the tee area, McIlroy turned, looked straight at the guy, and used his hands to mock the man’s belly.

Despite that, after his final round McIlroy said: “I love playing around New York. It’s got some of the best golf in the world. Was it a rough week at times? Absolutely. But if that’s the price to pay to live the life I’m living, then I’m okay with that.”

NBC TV coverage frustrating

American broadcaster NBC aired an interview with Carson Daly (who?)  at a crucial time during the US Open coverage which angered viewers.

Daly talked about growing up with Tiger Woods and playing junior golf with him and often competing with him in local events. Fans might have appreciated the interview had it been shown at a more appropriate time.

Adam Scott’s 100 consecutive majors

Such achievements don’t come round every day. But Adam Scott joined Jack Nicklaus as the only male golfers to play in 100 consecutive major championships. Unfortunately, his first round didn’t match that achievement as he had to wait until the par three 11th for his first birdie, after two earlier bogeys. Then on the 15th a

missed fairway into native area right then a second shot into native area left led to a double bogey six. A 12 foot putt for birdie on the par five 16th and an eight foot par putt on the 18th left him on three over par.

A second round 75 saw him miss the cut by three shots.

Niemann’s two shot penalty for club throw

Joaquin Niemann felt that after his disastrous nine in the first round on the par four sixth hole, that his two shot penalty making it an 11, was a little harsh.

He hit out of bounds twice then into a native area. He noticed ants near his ball but was denied relief from a ‘dangerous position’. A volunteer then noticed him throw his club 50 yards away in frustration. This led to the two shot penalty for serious misconduct.

Previous similar incidents at majors by Sergio Garcia, Robert MacIntyre and Rory McIlroy did not prompt any penalty, nor did other incidents involving club abuse and foul language draw penalties at this US Open.

Hence it is not surprising that Niemann felt a little harshly treated given that the course had dealt out its own penalties.

Such incidents are nothing new. McIlroy has thrown a club into a lake before. Jon Rahm missed a routine putt halfway through round two and the hot microphone picked up his “f...  off”. That moment went viral. There is no letup for players who lose their cool these days.

So all the more reason to realise there will be good moments and not so good and that whatever the outcome there is still another ball to hit and at the end of the day usually a better pay cheque than if I was digging ditches or on rubbish collection.

Scheffler on crowd behaviour

Scottie Scheffler believes hostile receptions are just part of the sport, but thankfully conceded the treatment of playing partner Wyndham Clark crossed the line at Shinnecock.

Said Scheffler: “The crowd was tough today. New Yorkers are tough people. There was a good turnout from the fans. You like seeing the fans cheer for you. I think sometimes it’s a little too much when balls are going off greens and you hear cheers. That felt a bit much to me. But at the end of the day I can’t control fan behaviour. Being in the arena isn’t for everybody.

“In my career there have been crowds for me and significantly against me. Crowds can be tough. I think it showed a lot about Wyndham, how he handled not only this golf course but also the crowd today and is a well deserving champion.”

Never a truer word spoken.

Jack Nicklaus fulsome praise for Wyndham Clark

Jack Nicklaus’ congratulatory message to Wyndham Clark was glowing in it’s praise.

“You did what I always thought was one of the toughest things in golf, especially major championships, and that is to win  from wire to wire. You may have given up some ground on Sunday, but you recovered beautifully. The US Open is a total examination of a player’s game and you aced your exam on the short game and scrambling.

“All those par saves and then that great birdie putt on 16. Fantastic. You should be very proud and happy. Barbara and I wish you well in the future.”

While Nicklaus was happy to see Clark win he derived more pleasure from seeing the love between father and son, saying “One of my favourite aspects about the US Open is the op-

portunity to win on Father’s Day and seeing your dad there really touched my heart.”

Father’s presence a surprise for Clark

Wyndham Clark was unaware his father Randall would be at Shinnecock to see his final round. His father had caught a red-eye flight from Denver to New York to watch his son’s push for a second US Open victory.

It must have been an emotional experience following his son with the baying crowd more often than not heckling his 32-year-old son.

After the final putt dropped Clark hugged his caddie, then his girlfriend and as he turned to walk toward the clubhouse he spotted his father smiling. Clark walked towards his father and gave him a long bearhug as they exchanged words on what was Father’s Day in the United States.

This wonderful moment was captured live on the broadcast and microphones picked up their conversation.

Said his father: “I’m so proud of you. That is the toughest round you will ever play.”

Clark replied: “Thanks pop, I’m so glad you were here.”

Clark was so thrilled to have his father there saying to media: “He’s never been there to see me win. To have him here is amazing, especially on Father’s Day.”

Chamblee — the worst I’ve ever seen

Golf commentator Brandel Chamblee didn’t mince words in his scathing assessment of the treatment Wyndham Clark received during the final round.

“I think it was the worst I’ve ever seen a player treated, especially when you consider it was an American player on American soil.”

Is there a better combination of golf courses in New Zealand than Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary and The Kinloch Club for a golf trip? Probably not. That, mixed with staying at the iconic Wairakei Resort, made for a weekend in Taupō that will live long in the memory, writes Peter Thornton.

Taupō golf trip

The alarm sounds off at 6am and there is no hitting the snooze button this morning.  The day we had been counting down to has finally arrived.

The car is packed, the WhatsApp chat has been lighting up on the teams and the number of strokes given, and it’s time to say goodbye to our wives who come up with a grimace-like-smile as we make our way for the door.  We can’t wait to get to Taupō and onto the first tee.

It’s hard to beat Taupō for a golfing getaway.  Queenstown is probably our Mecca for world-class courses, but Taupō offers so much. There are, of course, the world class layouts of Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary and The Kinloch Club that consistently rank in our top 10 courses in the country.

And there are many others within driving distance – the likes of Cape Kidnappers in the Hawke’s Bay or Tieke in the Waikato – to make this place a truly great destination in the heart of the North Island. The ease of the trip – packing up your car and a few hours later you are there – makes Taupō an affordable and awesome break.

There was a late reshuffle in the line-up. My father Richard, who will happily tell you all day about how much he loves his favourite course Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary – had to pull out with a sore hip. Getting old is no fun and he could not have got injured at a worse time, passing up the chance to play Te Arai Links and then go on this boys’ trip to Taupō.

Taking his place was Tim Dalman alongside Ben Lauchlan and Andrew Joyce. I lived in Wellington for three years and these guys were my golfing buddies in that time. They are handy golfers from Royal Wellington and super encouraging. It is awesome to be in their company.

They make the five-hour journey north from Wellington, while I head down from Auckland to ‘meet them in the middle’ at Taupō and get ready to check in at the Wairakei Resort.

Before we drop our bags, we take a quick trip down the road to visit the Huka Falls. This place is an incredible site that every visitor to Taupō must take in. The colour of the water is vibrant blue from the minerals of its source, Lake Taupō. You can stay here for hours just in awe of the power.

You hear the falls before you see them. Nearly a quarter of a million litres of water per second pour into a natural gorge and 11 million into the Waikato

River below. It is little wonder the Huka Falls is the most-visited natural attraction in New Zealand.     Wairakei Resort feels like home

There is nothing like checking into a hotel that is familiar and comfortable.

For almost 20 years I have been coming to Wairakei Resort. We would stay here for work and every time we drove up from Wellington, this place would be our go-to family spot. I love everything about this place.

The hot pool, the cosey rooms, the buffet breakfast.  It’s a great experience.

We drop our bags at reception and walk with our clubs through the tunnel under State Highway 1 for our first game of the trip at the Wairakei Resort Nine Hole Course.

It’s a fitting location as Ben tells us on the first tee that this layout was where he first learned to play the game around 30 years ago on holidays with his family.  Many people have had that same experience -- this track is the ideal place for golfers of all abilities to learn the game.

You can’t beat Taupō in autumn. We are met with sunshine on a warm afternoon and the colours of the golden leaves on the trees frame the hills like a postcard.

There are plenty of great holes at the Wairakei Resort course. One of my favourites comes early in the nine holes at the second. You tee off from an elevated tee to a driveable par four at only 220 metres away. It’s not long but it’s a fun hole and a great chance for an early birdie.

There are a couple of cool par threes back-to-back in the middle of the round. The fifth is 132 metres but can play a lot longer than that with the green at the top of the hill, and the sixth is the opposite of that at 130 metres as you hit back down to the flat.

The course finishes with a short and solid par five. It’s only 365 metres so at many courses it would play as a par four but it’s a good chance to finish the game on a high note.

For us, it is the ideal warm-up. Of course, we have a matchplay battle for the beers. Ben and I won the match in a playoff and Tim and Andrew were buying the pints.  We all know there are bigger challenges to come, and we are just getting started.

The heart of Taupō

You can’t come to Taupō for a golf trip and not take

on the Hole in One Challenge. For the uninitiated, just down the road from the #LoveTaupō sign of the lake’s waterfront is a golf set up where if you can pull off the magic shot, a hole in one, you claim $10,000. It’s had a recent renovation, and it is a popular facility. We land a few on the dancefloor, but the main prize proves elusive. It has been an action-packed afternoon to begin our first afternoon in Taupō and we’ve worked up a decent hunger.

We make our way to the Two-Mile Bay Sailing Club for an early dinner, and we quickly realise it’s a special spot. It has an incredible view over the lake, and the sunlight is fading so it’s a pretty sight of golden reflections. Perhaps the best thing about this place is it is down to earth and completely unpretentious.

The food is simple and tasty and there is a great selection of beers on offer. We cover the table with four of their best pizzas – the likes of ‘The Dooza’, Spicy Mexican and Pepperoni.

The 18th hole at The Kinloch Club measures 462 metres from the white tees and it’s a great test when the wind gets up.

It’s owner Torben Landl joins us for a pint at the end of our meal. He is a good man. Torben is a member of Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary and like us he loves the game. He has been a big supporter of local events.

The night is still young when we get back to our hotel rooms, so we make a visit to Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa just down the road from the Wairakei Resort.

This place is an amazing hot pool facility. As you weave around the walkway, you see different levels and pools of different temperatures nestled in native bush.

It’s a meeting place for people from all over the world. The top-level pool was at 40C, and it gets your attention.  I could only last a few minutes in there, but the whole experience is refreshing and invigorating. It was much needed after four hours in the car.

We are all thinking ahead to that all-important first tee shot at The Kinloch Club.

The Kinloch Club – our hardest challenge

The Kinloch Club has earned the reputation for being the hardest golf course in New Zealand and it’s easy to see why. You come here for the challenge, and you never leave disappointed.

The Jack Nicklaus-signature design –the only one in the country – was opened in 2007 by ‘The Golden Bear’ and since that time it has become one of the mustplay layouts in Aotearoa.

It is hard to sum up just how good this design is from the best golfer in history. The endless bunkers that are intimidating from the tee, the undulating greens, the variety of challenge and the rural surrounds on one side and Lake Taupō in the distance. It’s an incredible experience.

The teams for day two were Andrew and I taking on Ben and Tim. Ben got off to the best possible start when he almost holed his bunker shot on the first from 125 metres. He tapped in his birdie and there was more to come. He repeated the dose on the fourth from the bunker and was one under par after five holes. It was an extraordinary start.

Kinloch is a challenge like you have never experienced before. I could go through every hole and list off what I love about its unique qualities.

Three of my favourites from the front nine include the risk and reward par four fifth, the dogleg sixth and the ninth which

has a narrowing fairway, and you need to hit your approach to an elevated green. It’s a great test.

There is more beauty on the back nine. The par four 10th is a magical hole. You are met with a panoramic view of Lake Taupō and your tee shot hangs in the air forever.

Midway through the back nine, you are hit by what has to be the hardest par three in the country. The 15th is 200 metres from the white tees and with trouble all down the left and a sloping green, par here feels like a miracle.

The par five 16th is Nicklaus at his best. The bigger hitters can have a go for the green in two, but most players go down the right and try to hit the green in regulation and avoid the ever-present trouble.

During the back nine I have a couple of moments I will never forget. I made two good putts for birdie on 14 and 16 that were met with a fist pump.

A special mention of the par five 18th which is a great finishing hole. It’s a long par five with water all down the left from your second shot to around the green. It makes sure that you finish the round on a high note and if you make par on 18, it is a moment worth celebrating.

Following the round, we caught up with head professional Tommy Long who is a local legend and always good for a yarn.

For the record, Andrew and I did enough to hold on for a 3 and 2 win and Ben and Tim were buying the local Lakeman Pilsners after the round.

Chris Jolly Outdoors

There is no better way to see Taupō than out on the lake. Following the epic battle at Kinloch we were down the road to the Taupō Marina.

Chris Jolly Outdoors lined up a tour to take in the Māori carvings, the beauty of the lake and the chance for a fish.  We were hosted by Talia and Pete, who could not have been better value on a warm and stunning Taupō day.

Nestled in alongside the Māori carvings, it was a good chance to jump in from the top level of the boat for a fresh early winter swim. There was a dusting of snow on the top of Mount Ruapehu in the distance so to say the water was fresh was an understatement, but this was an absolute highlight of the trip.

Soon after, we were dropping lines and reeling in some five-pound rainbow trout in no time. There was plenty of ban-

ter about the size of the fish and who had won the fishing.  It was clutching at straws from those who had tasted defeat on the golf course.

It was an idyllic afternoon on Lake Taupō and one where you wished you could just stay for a few more hours. It’s a day that we will talk about for years to come.

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary – a world leader

If you asked most golfers what their top five courses in the country are, almost all of them would include this place. It is a unique and special experience.

It is the only golf course in the world that is also a sanctuary to wildlife and on your way around this beautiful layout, you will meet deer, takahē, pheasants and all sorts of natural birdlife. It’s like playing golf in a Disney movie.

And then there is the conditioning. We were informed they had cored the greens, tee boxes and fairways at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary 10 days out from our visit, and it could be still recovering. It was like a magic trick. The course was in near-perfect condition and there was nothing to complain about.

Before the round, you see Wairakei gets all the little details right. You are given a water bottle, tees and a pitch repairer in your cart. There is a pyramid of balls waiting on the range and warm-up areas and they have a log-fire running right by the practice putting green on a

chilly morning.

I have special memories of Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary. I have been coming here for more than 20 years for work and golf trips and every year it gets better. Since I played it last, they have added water features and reshaped holes, and it has only added to the mystique.

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary was first designed by Commander John Harris, fellow Englishman Michael Wolveridge and Australian legend Peter Thomson -- a five-time British Open champion – in the 1970s.

It was the original resort course that brought people from around the world to New Zealand. It’s not long by modern standards but it’s a course that is still a great challenge and just a brilliant experience.

Every hole has its own personality. On the front nine it is hard to go past the par three fifth.  It’s a reminder that a par three doesn’t need to be long to be a good challenge.

The par four sixth is one of the many signature holes. You are hitting from an elevated tee with bush on both sides before you try to land your second on a green that is surrounded by bunkers.

The best – and most photographed hole at Wairakei – is the eighth. It is a risk and reward dogleg par four where you are hitting into a green that is guarded by a water hazard. The sound of rippling water and birdlife and driving over the stone bridge to get to the green, it’s just so cool.

The par five 18th at the Kinloch Club is a risk and reward classic and a great example of Jack Nicklaus’ clever design.

The par four sixth at The Kinloch Club is a beauty of a hole and one of the best on the front nine. It measures 330 metres from the blue tees and it’s a dogleg left to a trick green. (Photo credit: Robinson Studios).

The par four fourth at Wairakei + Sanctuary is rated as the second hardest hole on the course. It is 355 metres from the white tees and the green is protected by a stream and bunkers. (Photo credit: Robinson Studios)

Onto the back nine and two of the best come soon after the turn. The short par fours at 11 and 12 will be talked about after your around. They are a good reminder that power isn’t everything. It is all about placement. Put your ball on the fairway and then do your best to hold the narrow greens. It is my favourite part of Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary.

Perhaps the best hole of all is the par five 14th. It asks you to hit quality golf

shots down the fairway and then you need to find the right tier on an elevated and sprawling green that makes par no easy feat.

Walking down the par five 18th, we are tired but happy.  It has been another memorable day, and Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary has truly lived up to its reputation as being one of New Zealand’s finest gems.  The course finishes in style with a beautiful par five and the

food in the clubhouse is worth hanging around for.

For the record, Tim and I did enough to claim a 2 and 1 win at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary. We all had moments of triumph and disaster and there would be another day.

If you are planning a golf trip with your mates or a getaway with the family, it is hard to beat Taupō.

In Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary and The

Kinloch Club, it boasts arguably the best combination of two golf courses in a region and for people in the North Island it is an easy and affordable holiday. And there is so much to do off the course to make Taupō an unbeatable holiday.

A special thanks to Victoria Jackson, the public relations & communications coordinator at Love Taupō for coordinating our trip.

The par three fifth at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is a great hole. It is only 148 metres from the white tees but it’s a good example of a short hole being a real challenge.

The par five 18th at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is a brilliant finishing hole. There is a chance to make birdie but the green is surrounded by trouble. (Photo credit: Robinson Studios)

Thirty-one years in,

Why Wairakei still feels like home

By Steven Jessup

Iarrived at Wairakei in 1995 on what was meant to be a career step, not a move that would last more than three decades.

I’d grown up in Auckland and started out at Aviation Country Club (which is now long gone), doing my traineeship under Neil McCree. Then the Park brothers rang and asked if I wanted to come down to Taupō to finish my time. I said yes, packed the car, and figured I’d see where it led.

Somehow that was 31 years ago – and I’m still here. The place has changed, of course. Any course that’s hosted generations of golfers has to evolve; equipment changes, expectations change, maintenance practices improve. But the appeal has never shifted.

Wairakei was always considered the quintessential New Zealand golf course, and we work hard to keep that real Kiwi feel. It’s not manufactured. It’s in the land, the air, and the way the golf asks you to think.

When you turn up here in the morning, you don’t feel like you’re clocking in at an ordinary job. I’m at the stage of my career now where I can say it plainly: there’s nowhere else I’ll be heading. I just don’t think it gets any better than this. Whenever this ends, for whatever reason, that’ll be it for me. And I’m completely comfortable with that, because it’s hard to imagine a better final chapter than spending my days on a golf course that feels like a sanctuary in every sense of the word.

People talk about Wairakei as a sanctuary because it is one — not just for golfers trying to escape the noise of daily life, but for the wildlife too. We believe we’re unique in the world in terms of endangered species living right alongside the game. Plenty of courses have birds and animals roaming around, but I’m not sure you’d go to many places and see takahē or deer wandering across the fairway like they own it (which, in fairness, they probably do).

And what I love is that even on a busy day, the layout lets you feel like you’re out there on your own. You can be playing in a full field and still have moments where it’s just you, your group, and the sound of a ball landing on the green.

As head pro, a big part of my week is spent in the coaching facility. It’s funny, because coaching can look like repetition: you’re trying to help people do the same core movements, day after day. But I still have the passion for it. I’ve been lucky to work with some very talented players, but I honestly get just as much satisfaction from a newcomer getting the ball airborne for the first time, or seeing someone make their first par. Those moments are pure. They’re the start of a relationship with the game that can last a lifetime — and I know, because it happened to me.

On the elite side, one of the highlights was working with Danny Lee for a few years, up until he moved to the United States. I was coaching him when he won the US Amateur, and when he won the Johnny Walker Classic in Perth, and I got to go to the Masters Tournament with him. Those are career moments you don’t forget.

Wairakei has always been a proper test, and I like that it still asks questions that modern golf can sometimes forget to ask. We’re no longer one of the longest courses in the country compared to the newest designs, but we’ve got playability — and we’ve got holes that reward finesse.

Some of the great features out here are our shorter holes. Take 11 and 12: you can’t just overpower them. You have to pick a target, hit the right shot at the right time, and accept that the wind, the lie, and the day you’re having will influence your answer. There are still holes that suit length and power, but there’s also a little bit of something else, and I enjoy that variety.

If you’re playing here for the first time, my advice is simple: enjoy the experience and appreciate what’s out there. Notice the space. Take in the sanctuary. Let the place slow you down a little. From a purely golfing perspective, it’s like most courses — if you hit it long and straight, you’ll probably be all right — but the real win is leaving with a clear memory of the round, not just a number on a card.

Over the years I’ve also seen what this place means beyond the ropes. Along with the other great courses in the region, Wairakei has been an important part of Taupō’s story. I couldn’t tell you the exact numbers, but I’ve no doubt the economic benefit to the town from golfers travelling here — often primarily because of this course — is significant. That matters. Not because golf needs to justify its existence, but because when a course becomes woven into a community, you feel a responsibility to look after it properly: for locals, for visitors, and for the generations still to come.

People sometimes ask what I love about golf, and the older I get the more I realise it’s the fact it’s always different. You can spend all day trying to perfect one simple move on the range, then step onto the course and find that every hole is a new question.

It’s not just the physical side; it’s the golfer’s ability to work the situation out and adapt. Not every scenario is the same, so how am I going to deal with this one today? And when I turn up tomorrow, what looks like the same problem will require a different answer. That’s the puzzle that’s kept me hooked all my life — and why, when I look across Wairakei’s fairways, I still feel grateful that I get to call this place my workplace.

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary head professional Steven Jessup still walks onto the first tee with the same sense of anticipation he felt as a young trainee. He says the game changes every day and his home course reminds him why that matters.

Steven Jessup, who is the head professional at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary.

Golfer Pacific writer Peter Thornton headed into the unknown with some mates for a golf journey on the West Coast of the South Island. The three courses included the links layouts of Hokitika and Westport golf clubs and the parkland layout at the Greymouth Golf Club. It was a memorable trip both on and off the golf course.

Off the beaten fairway: A West Coast golf adventure

According to The Links Association there are only 247 true links courses in the world and only five 18-hole links layouts in Aotearoa. They include Chisholm Park, Nelson, Paraparaumu Beach, Westport, and the beautiful Hokitika Golf Club.

One of the best things about writing for this magazine is exploring new places.

So, when the opportunity came up to discover the West Coast and its beautiful golf courses, I rallied some friends and we were all in.

I love this part of the world: the rugged and wild coastline, the great food and beers on offer and the down-to-earth people. It’s a place where a golf trip feels like a real adventure.

One of my lifetime goals is to play every golf course in Aotearoa. There are around 400 courses, and I’ve played around 110 of them so the chance to add to that tally and experience a unique part of New Zealand was a perfect escape.

The crew included good mates Daniel Markham, Scott Copeland and Chris Brookbanks. We visited Taranaki together last year and this was a good chance to catch up and renew the camaraderie and competition.

The three courses we selected, with some help from the locals, were Hokitika, Greymouth and Westport. Three different courses that offer so much in character and challenge.

The alarm went off at 4am and a few hours later we were arriving at Christchurch Airport and meeting up with Daniel and Scotty who flew in from Wellington.

The first stop was a shuttle to Go Rentals to collect

The par three 10th at Hokitika is only 116 metres but it’s a great hole. The tee box backs onto Hokitika Beach and you can hear the waves pounding on the shore.

our Toyota RAV4 Hybrid for the week. We had four sets of clubs and four bags, so it was good to have a comfortable and spacious ride for the tour.

Over the past week, we had been on constant weather watch. The forecast was for heavy rain for most of the week and it wasn’t improving. When we stopped in for breakfast at Arthur’s Pass the rain was coming in sideways and any golf looked unlikely.

But we aren’t the sort of group that accepts that lightly. Our first stop in Hokitika was at the famous driftwood sign where we took in our first look at the beautiful coastline. The scenery on our way through Arthur’s Pass from Christchurch was expansive and stunning.

Before golf, we stopped into the Hokitika Sandwich Company which was a popular spot with the locals and we soon saw why. The sandwiches were huge and made with care. My Colonel Cut chicken sandwich was perfectly made and set me up for our opening round.

Day one: A true links test at the Hokitika Golf Club

Arriving at the Hokitika Golf Club we met local legend and former touring pro Stuart Thompson on the clubhouse steps. He shared his experience and love for the course and wished us all the best for the wet conditions.

Hokitika is a genuine links test. It was established in 1906 when the rail line south to Ross was completed. This opened easy access south and a local doctor set about forming a golf club. We didn’t see it on our round, but it is one of a few courses in New Zealand with a view of Aoraki Mt Cook.

According to the list that The Links Association has put together, there are only 247 true links courses in the world and only five 18-hole links layouts in Aotearoa.

They include Chisholm Park, Hokitika, Nelson, Paraparaumu Beach and Westport. That places Hokitika and Westport in an elite club. Don’t ask me why the likes of Muriwai, Ahipara Links and Ohope Beach Links are not on this list.

I love the feeling of playing a golf course for the first time. It’s a bit of discovery but this place also seemed familiar. I lived in Ireland for a few years and in that time, we’d play golf in all conditions. I also was a member at Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club for three years which confirmed my love for links golf.

One of the best holes comes early in the round at the third hole, named Bridge.  It’s 320 metres and once you get your drive away you are asked to find a green that is tucked beneath the fairway in a dogleg left, with views of the original rail bridge.

Another great hole is the par five sixth. It’s a beast

and at 486 metres it is the longest par five on the West Coast. The par three 10th of 116 metres is another beauty. You make your way to the tee box which backs onto Hokitika Beach. When you hit your tee shot to the green  you can hear the waves roaring into shore behind you.

There are plans to revise the 12th which will make it a stunning hole. Once completed it will be a dogleg par five playing towards the beach and make it one of the best on the course.

Hokitika is lined with straight holes that go out and back. Only the par threes play across the land.  Heading out to the red flags – which mark the front nine -- it was down wind and coming back to the yellow flags it was into the wind and playing long.

For game one, the Auckland lads (Chris and me) took on the Wellington boys. We always felt in control and enjoyed a 4 and 3 win.

We always play a three-hole challenge – where the winner over the final three holes in strokeplay wins the pot of $5 per player. We were all square heading to the final tee after Chris made a 20-foot putt for par.  The sun was gone but there was just enough light to complete the par five 18th, and I won the contest by a shot with a par on 18.

An incredible escape – The Enchanted in Hokitika

After a long day of travel, we were keen to check out our accommodation and arriving at The Enchanted in Hokitika was a sight for sore eyes.

This place is incredible. Everyone had their own deluxe double room, and the sizable lounge and dining area were the perfect setting.

We put on the fire and stacked the living room with our wet clothes and clubs to dry them off for day two. There’s so much to explore at this place and I can’t wait to bring my kids back here.

For dinner, we ventured back into Hokitika where we settled into a warm welcome at the Thatcher and Small. The chef kindly put on complimentary whitebait fritters, and I backed it up with a battered gurnard and chips, with a cold pint of Monteith’s Hazy IPA. It was a great start.

On the way home a Kiwi bird darted in front of our car along the country road. As we jumped in the spa pool at The Enchanted you could hear a cacophony of Kiwi chatting to each other in the surrounding native bush. Every few minutes the sky would light up with lightning across the gloom. It was a beautiful sight.

Before bed, we ventured down into the bush on the property to take in one of the highlights of the trip. It

Greymouth Golf Club is a well maintained layout and a great complement to the other links courses on the West Coast.

was pouring down with rain but under the shelter of the trees, the picture of a thousand glow worms lighting up the bush within arm’s reach was magnificent and awe-inspiring.

Day Two: Playing in the rain at the Greymouth Golf Club

The forecast for Friday was the worst of the week, but there was optimism when we woke up to overcast skies. We pulled out of The Enchanted – nobody wanted to leave this place – and made our way north to the Greymouth Golf Club.

I’d heard a lot about this parkland course, and we were keen to play it for the first time. As we parked alongside the clubhouse, we saw it was waterlogged and it was touch and go. We had a quick chat with the greenkeeper who thought we were crazy to even consider playing. Maybe we were, but moments later we were on the first tee.

The opening hole is a beauty. It’s the stroke one hole and a good test to begin your round. The third hole is an awesome challenge in a tight par four that narrows as you approach the green.

It was tough going in the wet, but we were all determined to make the most of the opportunity.

For day two I team up with Daniel against Chris and Scotty and we were in control. Scotty made a fine up and down on the par five seventh for par, sinking a 15-foot putt, to get them back in the match but when we claim the eighth it’s enough for a 2 and 1 win.

The eighth was my favourite hole on the front nine. It’s a dogleg left that measures 329 metres from the white tees and then after finding the fairway you need to get past two towering trees.

The back nine has several great holes and we were

Greymouth Golf Club is a great parkland course, similar to layouts like Whakatane or Manawatu Golf Club.

gutted to have to call it a day after nine holes as the rain pelted down. The 10th is rated as the easiest hole on the course – a 393 metre par five that is a good birdie opportunity.

Greymouth has a great finishing stretch with the 16th a short par three where the green is guarded by two big pine trees and the 18th is a tough way to finish. It’s a 377 metre par four that is rated as the second hardest hole.

We all vowed to come back here and play the Greymouth Golf Club on another trip. It’s a local gem and a course that would be such a great experience on a fine day.

An icon on the West Coast

After some much-needed hot showers at the clubrooms, it was down the road to take in one of the iconic spots on the West Coast. When the rain is pouring, there is no better place to be than tucked in at the Monteith’s Brewery for lunch and a beer tasting.

Monteith’s beer is famous all over the country, and around the world, so it is great to be here with a sixbeer tasting paddle savouring some of their best. Our chicken burgers and fries arrived and there was good chat amongst some new and old mates.

Andrew Aitken is the destination and tourism manager at Development West Coast and an old mate. I used to play rugby with his older brother Tim on Auckland’s North Shore 20 years ago, so it was an awesome surprise to see him walk through the doors and join us for lunch.

Our host for the afternoon was Kate, who was affable and knowledgeable as she took us through the beer making process and taught us how to pull a perfect pint. We could have stayed here all afternoon.

It was time to make our way north and in the drizzly and wintry conditions the famous West Coast Road was a sight to behold. The drive hugs the coastline, and you are gifted some stunning ocean views and experience waterfalls ploughing down from the hills. It has to be one of the best stretches of road in the country.

We arrived at the Scenic Hotel at Punakaiki and the general manager, Robert Afan, welcomed us in with a pint and some great yarns. He is a top man, and the hotel is in good hands.  It’s an idyllic spot. The hotel literally sits on the beach, and our rooms were across the road with a panoramic

view of the area.

We made our way down through the rainforest walk on the property and arrived at the Ocean View Restaurant for a meal that would be the best dinner of the trip.

The chef had lined up a set menu for our visit and the plates kept coming out. Cranberry glazed venison rubs, confit pork belly, lamp rump and orange roughy, with Aubergine and salads. It was finished off with a fresh fruit platter and mango and kiwifruit sorbet. We took a quick walk on the beach to finish the night and hoped that the rain would be gone in the morning.

Day Three: The final challenge at Westport Golf Club

When we woke up on the third morning full of anticipation. The blue skies and rays of light to the north in Westport were like a beacon of hope.

We ordered a full breakfast at the Scenic Hotel to get ready for a big day and before we headed north, we took the chance to learn about the local area.

The Paparoa Cultural Experience is an eye-opening and informative walk through the unique landforms of the world-famous Punakaiki Rocks. Inside you will learn about the Māori mythology of this incredible living coastline and have a chance to experience a blowhole firsthand.

After 30 minutes inside, it was time to check out Punakaiki across the road. I have been here three times and every time this place takes your breath away. It must be one of the best natural attractions in the country and the view from any vantage point frames up like a postcard.

The boys are itching to get on the tee, and we make the two hour drive north to get ready for a battle on a course I have heard a lot about. We made a quick stop at the West Coast Pie Company, and I order a Venison Steak and Cheese which is the best pie I have ever tasted.

On the first tee at Westport, it’s a nice feeling to be one of the few on the

course and in fine conditions. Scotty finds some magic to start the round and before we know we are five up after our first five holes over Daniel and Chris.

Westport is another genuine links test. It lulls you into a false sense of security with several short par fours before you have a host of tough holes from the fifth through to the eighth. We are feeling comfortable, but Daniel made a nice putt for par from around 40 feet off the green for par on No 8. Following that the lads staged a good comeback and won three holes in a row.

The par three 13th is a cool hole. The front of the green is obscured by a mound so you can’t see your ball land on the dance floor. Chris hit his best shot of the day here to continue their momentum.

Scotty and I did just enough to hold on throughout the closing stretch to win 3 and 2 and claim the beers. We had another three-hole challenge, and the final three holes here are memorable.

The 16th is a long par four into the prevailing wind from an elevated tee. The 17th is a sweeping dogleg par four that is ideal for faders of the golf ball, and the 18th is a short and downwind par five that is just asking for you to have a go in two.

Chris and I were all square heading down the last with Daniel only one stroke back.  I came up with a great lob

Sunrise in Punakaiki – it is an amazing natural attraction and a great experience on the West Coast. (Photo credit: Tui Thuy)

wedge to four feet and made the birdie putt to claim the spoils.

Our final accommodation for the trip was at the Bella Vista in Westport. This place is in the heart of the action with a few good restaurants and pubs down the road.

We all met in my room to take in the Crusaders beating the Blues in the Super Rugby quarterfinals. They are hard to beat at their new home.

We made our way down the road for dinner at the Denniston Dog and were told about their famous stone grill steak and chips. It went down all too easy with a couple of pints of Guinness. We toasted the final night on tour and recapped the highs and lows on the course.

The final day – time to go home

After battling in the elements for the past three days, we couldn’t quite believe it when we woke up to blue skies on the final morning.

I was angling for one more hit at the 12hole Reefton Golf Club on our way back to Christchurch, but I was on my own and we had other plans.

Our final stop on the tour was all about rest and recovery. The Maruia Hot Springs is an award-winning natural hot spring, day spa, and wellness destination on Lewis Pass that is a must-visit.

As soon as you arrive, you start to relax and we were welcomed with a refreshing glass of Kombucha before getting into the togs.

After three days on the golf course, the feeling of stepping into the hot pools was sweet relief. The views down the river and up to the mountains make for a pleasant place to unwind. For the more adventurous there is the option of a sauna infusion and hot and cold plunges but whatever way you experience this place, it is a world-class offering.

We arrived at lunch chilled out and enjoyed our final meal of beef cheek tortillas and mango smoothies by the fire. It had been a trip for the ages. Everyone had their moments on the golf course and even though the weather wasn’t perfect, we had the time of our lives. Sometimes when things don’t go to plan, you have the best trip.

We sat around for one final chat and reflected on what made it special. The scenery and some of the places we stayed were at the highest level, the food was consistently delicious, and the golf was a genuinely good experience. But, above all, the best part of this sojourn west was the people.

West Coasters are a special sort of people. The kind who are so proud of their region and down-to-earth. At every turn they wanted us to have the best experience of the coast and to help, and for that reason, among many others, we will be back here to do it all again.

A special thanks to Maia Peart-Anderson from Development West Coast for coordinating our trip to the West Coast.

The par five 18th is a great hole. It is 416 metres and it’s a great chance to finish the round on a high note.

The sun setting over the undulating fairways of Westport Golf Club.

What I love about Hokitika Golf Club and the coast I call home

By Stuart Thompson

People talk a lot these days about authentic golf experiences, but at Hokitika Golf Club we don’t have to manufacture one. This place has been here since 1906, and what makes it special is that it still feels like the land had the first say.

Ours is one of the pure links courses of the world, an old-fashioned seaside layout that hasn’t had a bulldozer reshape its character. It sits on the West Coast exactly as a course like this should: exposed, natural, honest and always at the mercy of the elements. For me, that is the beauty of it. You are not playing a polished version of links golf. You are playing the real thing.

If you want to know what protects par here, the answer is simple: weather. Always weather. On a calm day, Hokitika can be inviting. When the wind gets up and the rain starts moving across from the coast, it becomes a very different proposition.

A westerly wind can be dry and sharp. A northerly can settle in and bring rain for days. That is part of the education of growing up here. I can still remember learning as a kid to put plastic bags in my shoes to keep my socks dry. That probably tells you everything you need to know about West Coast golf. You learn to adapt, to laugh, and to respect the conditions because they are never really on your side. That challenge is what makes a good round here feel earned.

But Hokitika is much more than a test of golf. For me, first and foremost, it is home. I grew up here, and after spending time away in Auckland, coming back felt easy in the best possible way. There is a rhythm to life on the coast that gets under your skin. There is not a single traffic light on the whole West Coast, and that says something about the place.

Life is a bit simpler, a bit less hurried,

and people still have time for each other. The town is full of good people, and the golf club reflects that. It is not just somewhere to play. It is part of the fabric of the community, a place where generations meet, stories get shared, and visitors get to experience the coast the way locals know it.

My connection to this course runs even deeper than my own memories.

My grandfather, Arnold Thompson, was involved with the club from 1924. He served on the committee, was president, and later patron. They named a hole after him, our 14th, and that means a lot to me.

It is not really about ceremony. It is about pride. When your family has poured that much into a place, the club becomes part of who you are. You do the jobs that need doing, just like so many people do at golf clubs around New Zealand, but when it is your own club and your own people, it carries an extra weight. It becomes personal. That sense of continuity matters. I love

that when I walk these fairways, I am walking through family history as much as golf history.

I have had some wonderful moments here over the years. My best score around Hokitika is 61, ten under par, and I did that playing with dad 28 years ago. That round is still special to me, not just because of the number but because of who I shared it with and where it happened.

A course like this gets into your blood. You learn how to flight the ball, how to use the ground, how to stay patient when the conditions turn. It teaches imagination and resilience. Those are qualities links golf rewards, and they are qualities the West Coast seems to build in people as well.

That is one of the reasons I think rural clubs like ours matter so much. It can be hard for small clubs to attract juniors, but what we offer is freedom and access. You do not need to battle for a tee time here. You can just turn up and play. In many parts of the

world, and even in plenty of places around New Zealand, that is becoming rare. For young players especially, that kind of access is priceless.

A course like Hokitika gives them room to learn the game properly, without fuss and without barriers. It is also a gathering place for the community, which is every bit as important. Golf clubs on the coast are social places, local landmarks and quiet anchors for the towns around them.

And if you are thinking about a golf trip to this part of the country, I would say the West Coast is one of New Zealand’s underrated golfing regions. Timing helps – late spring through to late autumn is usually your best window, while winter can be exactly what you would expect on the coast, meaning plenty of rain and conditions that ask serious questions. But if you get the timing right, there is so much to enjoy. Westport is a sensational course. Karamea is a wonderful nine-holer. Greymouth is another good stop. We are lucky with what we have over here, and the best part is that it remains accessible. These courses belong to their communities, and visitors get to feel that.

What I love most, though, is that Hokitika Golf Club still feels true to itself. It has not tried to be anything other than what it is: a pure links course in a proud West Coast town, shaped by wind, rain, history and people who care about it deeply. In a world where so much feels overdesigned and overcomplicated, there is something refreshing about a place that remains natural, challenging and real.

For me, this course is not just where I work or where I play. It is part of my family, part of my community and part of my identity. That is why I love it, and why I think anyone who comes here with an open mind will understand exactly what makes this corner of New Zealand so special.

Hokitika Golf Club head professional Stuart Thompson is the definition of a local legend. He talks about his love for his home course that holds a special place in New Zealand.

Stuart Thompson who is the head professional at the Hokitika Golf Club on the West Coast.

Drinking good beer is part of a golf tour. What better place to break up a trip than an afternoon at one of our best breweries. Experience champion Kate Stanbridge Hammond explains what Montieth’s means to the local community.

Why Monteith’s Brewery is a must-visit on any West Coast golf trip

By Kate Stanbridge Hammond

Ihave always thought a great West Coast golf trip should be about more than just what happens on the course.

The golf is a huge draw, but some of the best moments come after the round, when people are looking for somewhere memorable to relax, warm up and enjoy themselves.

That is why I think Monteith’s Brewery in Greymouth is such a special stop. For me, it is not just somewhere to grab a beer. It is a place that gives visitors a real feel for the coast, its history and its people.

One of the things I love most about Monteith’s is the history behind it. That is always the first thing I think about when people ask what makes this place special. Monteith’s started in Reefton before moving to Greymouth, and it has been here since 1927. A lot has changed over the years, but there is still a strong sense of heritage when you walk through the doors. You are not just stepping into any pub. You are stepping into somewhere that has been part of the West Coast story for generations.

I also love that there is so much more here than people expect. On a classic coast day, when the weather turns and there is a bit of rain outside, Monteith’s feels warm and welcoming straight away. We have the fires going, the atmosphere is relaxed and there is plenty to explore. It is not just a place to sit and drink. We have museums, the brewery, the tour room and our tasting experiences, so people can spend time and feel like they

are getting something unique.

The tastings are one of my favourite parts of the job because they give people a chance to experience the full range of what we do. It is not just about handing someone a beer and sending them on their way. By the end of a tasting, people know more about what they are drinking, the different flavours and what makes each beer distinctive. Our staff learn a lot about what we serve, so anyone who comes in can ask questions, get recommendations and feel looked after. For golfers travelling with friends, that makes the stop part of the whole story of the trip, not just a quick drink after the round.

What makes working here so rewarding is that it is more than a hospitality job. I love doing the tours and teaching people. Seeing visitors walk out saying they have learned something and genuinely enjoyed the experience is such a good feeling. It means I have been able to do more than pour a drink. I’ve helped make their visit richer and that is something I take a lot of pride in.

Part of that pride comes from being a local. I grew up here, I went away for a while, and I could not wait to come back. The West Coast is home for me. My friends and family are here, the beaches are right there and there is something really special about this place that only grows stronger the longer you spend here. I love being able to share that with people who visit. Monteith’s is one of those places where you can really connect with the character of Greymouth and the wider coast.

That is why I always think Monteith’s should be part of any West Coast golf trip. A great trip is about more than scorecards and fairways. It is about the places you stop, the people you meet and the memories you make along the way. Here, you get history, hospitality, atmosphere and a real taste of the coast in one place. If you are travelling through with your clubs in the car, make time for Greymouth and make time for Monteith’s. You’ll leave with more than just a good beer. You will leave with a much better sense of what makes this part of New Zealand so special.

The southern most 18 hole championship ‘True Links’ golf course in the world

While playing golf in Dunedin, the “Edinburgh of the South”, you really must ‘tee-it- up’ on a Scottish-style links course. Dunedin Golf Club is currently listed in the 10% ‘true links’ golf course in the world and it’s all right here in Dunedin! With stunning beauty and ocean views, the course plays to a Par 71, measuring 5700 metres (6300yds).

Ranked #1 in Dunedin, #23 in New Zealand by www.golfrankings.co.nz Golfrankings.co.nz is New Zealand’s leading ranking of golf courses throughout the country with 50 golf professional and golf industry personnel involved in the ranking process.

Come and see why Dunedin Golf Club is Dunedin’s best golf experience!

16 Tahuna Road, Dunedin | golfcentre@dunedingolfclub.co.nz | 03 455 0715

022 620 6819

Kate Stanbridge Hammond who will tell you all about Montieth’s Brewery in Greymouth.

Celebrating the best of New Zealand golf NEWS

By Andrew Whiley, New Zealand PGA golf professional and rankings coordinator

New Zealand is widely recognised as one of the world’s great golf destinations, and the release of the 2026 New Zealand golf rankings provides an opportunity to celebrate not only our finest courses but also the clubs and people that make the game so special here.

The rankings highlight the exceptional quality and diversity of golf throughout the country and, hopefully, inspire golfers to explore more regions and experience courses they may not have yet discovered. So, how many of New Zealand’s best courses have you played?

For the fifth time in the past decade, Tara Iti in Northland has been ranked New Zealand’s number one golf course. While access remains highly exclusive, those fortunate enough to have played it understand why. The combination of world class design, spectacular coastal scenery and a course that sits naturally within the landscape creates an unforgettable golfing experience. Second and third in the 2026 rankings are the north and south courses of Te Arai Links in north Auckland, confirming this stretch of Northland coastline as one of the world’s premier golfing destinations. Together, they now rival iconic golf regions such as Pebble Beach in California, Bandon Dunes in Oregon and Melbourne’s

famous sand belt. The combination of outstanding golf, luxury accommodation, quality dining and breathtaking scenery has made Te Arai a must-play destination for golfers from around the globe.

The success of these courses is no surprise given the calibre of their architects. Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw designed Te Arai south, while Tom Doak was responsible for Te Arai north and Tara Iti, creating layouts that work in harmony with their natural surroundings.

Jack’s Point in Queenstown retained fourth position in the 2026 rankings and remained the highest ranked course in the South Island, narrowly ahead of Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay, which climbed to fifth. Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary in Taupo slipped one place to sixth, while Paraparaumu Beach, north of Wellington, rose three places to seventh. The Hills in Arrowtown dropped to eighth and is preparing for significant redevelopment, while Kinloch  (north of Taupo) and Kauri Cliffs in Northland completed the top 10.

The competition among New Zealand’s elite courses has never been tighter. Just half a point separated the courses ranked third through to 10th, highlighting the exceptional standard of the country’s leading golf destinations.

Many of New Zealand’s strongest member-based clubs occupied positions 11 through 20, with relatively little movement from the previous year’s rankings. Millbrook Resort’s Coronet and Remarkables courses again featured prominently, alongside Titirangi Golf Club, Royal Wellington Golf Club, Royal Auckland and Grange Golf Club, Christchurch Golf Club, Tieke Golf Estate, Clearwater Golf Club, Muriwai Golf Club, and Arrowtown Golf Club.

The depth of quality throughout New Zealand golf is perhaps best demonstrated by the narrow margins within the top 40. An example is that Terrace Downs Resort, ranked 21st, received 26.86 points, while Wānaka Golf Club, ranked 40th, received 26.22 points. Such a small gap illustrates the strength of courses throughout the country and confirms that simply making the top 40 remains a significant achievement.

Several courses enjoyed strong gains. Waipu Golf Club in Northland and Omaha

Beach Golf Club in north Auckland both climbed 13 places following extensive redevelopment and course improvements, while Mangawhai Golf Club in Northland rose six positions.

The rankings were compiled from submissions by 25 panelists representing more than 850 years of combined golfing experience. The panel included PGA professionals, accomplished amateur golfers, course superintendents, golf industry professionals and experienced club golfers from throughout New Zealand.

Courses were assessed across seven criteria: Risk and reward, playability, layout, design, scenic values, conditioning and ambience. Each category carried a maximum score of five points, creating a possible total of 35 points per course.

The rankings have now been conducted every two years since 2012, providing a valuable benchmark for measuring course improvements and long-term trends across New Zealand golf.

Several highly regarded courses narrowly missed inclusion in the top 40, including Ōhope International Golf Club, Poverty Bay Golf Club and Invercargill Golf Club. Tokarahi Golf Club and Mahia Golf Club also received praise as outstanding nine-hole courses.

Panelists were equally enthusiastic about the hospitality offered at many clubs. Te Arai (Ric’s place prior to the fire), Millbrook Resort, Mount Maunganui Golf Club and Waipu Golf Club were recognised for their excellent clubhouse experiences, food offerings, and welcoming atmosphere.

For golfers, perhaps the challenge this year is simple: play more of New Zealand’s top 40 courses. Seek out a hidden gem, explore a new region and discover whether you agree with the rankings. While rankings provide a guide, the true beauty of golf in New Zealand lies in the unique blend of scenery, character, challenge, and hospitality found throughout the country.

From world-renowned destinations to treasured local clubs, New Zealand continues to offer memorable golfing experiences for players of all abilities. So, grab your clubs, hit the road, and start ticking a few more courses off the list.

New Zealand golf rankings for 2026

For more information visit: golfrankings.co.nz

Risk Reward: How well does the course pose risks and rewards and equally test length, accuracy and finesse?

Playability: How difficult, while still being fair, is the course for a scratch player from the back tees?

Layout: How varied are the golf course’s holes in differing lengths, configurations, hazard placements, green shapes and green contours?

Design: How well do the design features (tees, fairways, greens, hazards, vegetation and terrain) provide individuality to each hole, yet a collective continuity to the entire 18?

Scenic Values: How well do the scenic values of the course (including landscaping, vegetation, water features and backdrops) add to the pleasure of a round?

Conditioning: How were the tees, fairways and greens on the day you played the course?

Ambience: How well does the overall feel and atmosphere of the course reflect or uphold the traditional values of the game?

RISK / REWARD

4.6 Tara iti

4.49 Te Arai South

4.49 Kinloch

4.44 Paraparaumu Beach

4.41 Jacks Point

PLAYABILITY

4.66 Tara Iti

4.55 Te Arai South

4.49 Paraparaumu Beach

4.42 Te Arai North

4.41 Wairakei

LAYOUT

4.7 Tara Iti

4.64 Te Arai South

4.57 Paraparaumu Beach

4.51 Kinloch

4.46 Te Arai North

4.87 Tara Iti 4.63 Te Arai South 4.57 Paraparaumu Beach 4.56 Kinloch 4.35 Te Arai North

VALUES 4.88 Te Arai South 4.8 Tara Iti

RANKINGS PANEL: Alan Rose, Barry Brown, Benn Ashford, Blair Dibley, Denise Langdon, Duncan Croudis, Grant Moorhead, Hamish Campbell, Hamish Robertson, Harry Bateman, Jamie McIsaac, John Rowland, Kieran Muir, Leo Barber, MacKenzie Gibson, Michael Glading, Nigel Merrett, Patrick Moore, Phil Aicken, Phil Ellison, Sam Vincent, Simon Forshaw, Toland Henderson, Tony Houpt and Willie Moore.

Canterbury golfer Cooper Moore has been selected to represent the International Team at the Junior Presidents’ Cup -- one of the most prestigious honours in junior golf.

The Junior Presidents’ Cup will be held at the Medinah Country Club near Chicago in the United States from September 20-21. That is immediately before the Presidents’ Cup proper from September 24-27.

Cooper, a member at Clearwater Golf Club and student at St Bede’s College in Christchurch, secured his place in the team by ranking fifth in the International Team standings when the world amateur golf ranking (WAGR) qualifications window closed on June 4.

Cooper’s selection is the result of a tremendous run of form. After earning a late call-up to the 2024 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in Japan, where he finished eighth as the leading New Zealander, he has continued his rise in the amateur rankings.

Within weeks of that performance, he won the New Zealand Amateur Championship and added the Australian Boys’ Amateur and the 2025

Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation Junior Boys’ Championship in Hong Kong, the latter with a stunning back nine charge in difficult conditions to win by two strokes.

Also, testing himself in the professional ranks, Cooper won his maiden Charles Tour title at the 2025 Mount Open in Tauranga and finished runner-up at the 2026 New Zealand PGA

Championship, winning the Sir Bob Charles Trophy as lowest scoring New Zealander.

New Zealand has been proud to have representation at the Junior Presidents’ Cup in recent years. Cooper now carries that torch forward, arriving as one of the International Team’s highest-ranked players and one of the most decorated junior amateurs in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Junior Presidents’ Cup is a twoday team matchplay competition, run by the PGA Tour in partnership with the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA). Twelve of the world’s best junior boys (19 and under) from outside Europe face off against the top 12 Americans — mirroring the format of the professional event.

The International Team captain is C T Pan who leads a squad drawn from seven nations including Japan, South Korea, China, Colombia, Thailand and Hong Kong, as well as New Zealand. The United States has won all four editions held since the event’s inception in 2017.

Cooper Moore selected for Junior Presidents’ Cup Pegasus battle heats up

By Neville Idour

The Pegasus Golf Club community and golfers in Canterbury, and even further afield, will not give up the fight against developers Wolfbrook Properties and it’s opportunistic attempts to destroy the fabric of Pegasus town.

Wolfbrook is seeking to use government fast-track approval to turn  the green space golf course into housing. It has been made painfully obvious that more housing in Pegasus, north of Christchurch, is not needed. Neighbouring development Ravenswood directly on the other side of state highway one is providing much housing along with other land available in the area for further development.

Therefore, supported by the Waimakariri Council, a petition was launched by the Pegasus residents’  group to urge the government to ensure that any proposal to redevelop the Pegasus golf course is not progressed through the fast-track approvals process. Amongst

the reasons given are that Pegasus was designed as a master planned community focussed on open space, recreation, environmental values and coordinated development. The golf course is central to that vision.

The prospect of losing one of the country’s best golf courses, the focal point for the town with special land protections, has certainly raised the hackles of the local community and politicians, along with golfers locally, New Zealand wide and even internationally. Not forgetting those people who built on the fringes of the course, secure in their belief that the course was a permanent fixture.

At time of this story the number who had signed the petition was approaching 16,000. The petition closed on June 30. The petition will be presented to the government by Waimakariri member of parliament Matt Doocey and Labour member of parliament  Dan Rosewarne who lives at Woodend which is two kilometres from Pegasus.

However there is hope with Waimakariri mayor Dan

Gordon throwing his weight and that of the council behind the community’s efforts. He said there has been interest from several quarters in being part of a potential buy back offer to Wolfbrook. Gordon has already made the council’s opposition clear to Wolfbrook. Pegasus residents’ group president Matt James said Wolfbrook was being vilified but “they could turn that around if they realise how passionate the opposition to their plans are. We are winning with public opinion, but that doesn’t count ultimately, as it is not for sale, although Wolfbrook did hint that it may agree to a discussion.”

The amount of coordinated effort and the enormous time that has been spent in this fight against Wolfbrook is evidence of how deep the feelings are. Despite this, Wolfbrook has the opportunity to repair the huge damage done to it’s name with it’s most unwelcome involvement in Pegasus. Should they bite the bullet and sell it back, hopefully without seeking to profit from a sale, it could come out as heroes.

Canterbury golfer Cooper Moore who has been selected for the International Team at the Junior Presidents’ Cup in the United States in September. Photo credit: BW Media.

Sustained increase in golf’s global participation NEWS

New participation figures published by one of world golf’s two governing bodies The R&A confirm that Asia is the leading region for adults playing golf among R&A affiliated regions and also highlight the current participation boom in the sport around the world, notably among juniors.

New research in the 2025 R&A global participation report shows that 112.2 million adults and juniors are now playing golf in all its forms worldwide, outside of the United States and Mexico – marking an increase of 4.2 million golfers yearon-year.

With The R&A recently unveiling a new five-year global strategy aiming to open golf to millions more people, the research underlines the sport’s growing appeal and provides a strong platform for long-term development.

The research also shows that 65 million adults are now playing golf, up one million on 2024. Notably, 47.1 million juniors are participating in the sport, an increase of 3.2 million in just one year, to highlight the importance of younger players in shaping the sport’s long-term future.

Off-course, golf continues to experience strong growth with 68.3 million adults and juniors engaging in a range of formats. Shorter formats, driving range activity and simulator-based experiences are not only attracting new participants, but are also playing a vital role in keeping the sport relevant in a more time-constrained and experience-led environment.

The number of registered golfers –members of a golf club or otherwise affiliated to their national federation through a direct subscription – also increased from 8.4 to 8.7 million. Overall, there has been a 16 per cent growth in registered players since 2020.

2025 global participation report: Key Statistics

* 112.2 million people playing golf (adult + junior) – up 3% since 2024

* 65 million adults playing golf – up 1% since 2024

* 47.1 million juniors playing golf – up 6% since 2024

* Asia is the leading region for adults playing golf among R&A affiliated regions, with total adult participation of 26.2 million. Europe is second highest with 20.6 million adults and Canada next best with 7.1 million adults

* Total junior participation is largest in Europe with 19.9 million golfers

* 43.9 million total nine and 18-hole golfers (registered and unregistered) – up 1% since 2024

* 8.7 million registered golfers – up 2% since 2024

* 18,500 golf courses in R&A affiliated nations worldwide

Overview of Key Areas

Based on The R&A’s purpose of ‘opening golf to the world’, the new strategy aims to have more people playing and engaging with golf more frequently worldwide.

Focusing on key areas of the 2025 global participation report, including women, juniors and health, the following statistics and statements highlight sustained participation growth since 2024.

At a regional level, growth patterns are becoming more differentiated. Established markets in Europe continue to provide a strong foundation, while emerging regions are contributing in distinct ways, including notable gains in registered participation in parts of Central and South America.

Registered golfers

* Central & South America 122,000 to 146,000 – up 20%

* Canada 550,000 to 593,000 – up 8%

* Africa 312,000 to 329,000 – up 6%

* Oceania 615,000 to 644,000 – up 5%

* Europe 4.7 million to 4.9 million – up 3%

9 and 18-hole golfers

* Oceania 2.57 million to 2.69 million –up 5%

* Central & South America 0.27 million to 0.28 million – up 4%

* Africa 0.72 million to 0.74 million – up 3%

* Canada 5.7 million to 5.8 million – up 2%

* Europe 13.6 million to 14 million – up

2%

* In The R&A’s nine biggest markets, further regional breakdown for 9 and 18hole golfers:

* Great Britain and Ireland 5.8 million to 6.1 million – up 5%

* Australia 2.3 million to 2.4 million – up 4%

* Canada 5.7 million to 5.8 million – up 2%

Women’s representation in The R&A’s nine biggest markets for adult participation:

* All 9 and 18-hole adult golfers, 28% women – up from 25%

* Other format adult golfers (not 9 and 18 hole), 53% women – up from 50%

* Total adult participation, 34% women –up from 31%

* In Germany, 41% of adult participants are women

* In Argentina, 36% of adult participants are women

* In Great Britain & Ireland, 33% of adult participants are women

* In Australia, 31% of adult participants are women

Junior golfers

* Total junior participation is largest in Europe with 19.9 million golfers, then 9.7 million in Asia, 7.4 million in Afri-

ca and 4.5 million in Central & South America

* Registered junior golfers highest in Europe with 0.78 million, then Asia with 0.22 million

* In Great Britain & Ireland, of those households with children aged 6-17 in them – 70% had taken part in some form of golf activity in the last 12 months

* In Great Britain & Ireland, 12.5% of households with children aged 6-17 had played golf at a driving range with range technology, highlighting the rise of gamification formats

Health

In Great Britain & Ireland, based on the general population (including golfers and non-golfers), golf is seen as delivering real meaningful health benefits to those playing the sport across different formats, with the following strong levels of agreement with health and well-being statements (agree + strongly agree):

* Good way to exercise outdoors (77%)

* Good for your health (75%)

* Gives a sense of freedom and relaxation (74%)

* Good way to relieve stress (72%)

* Good way to feel refreshed and rejuvenated (69%)

Irishman beats American to win The Amateur Championship

GOLF NEWS

Stuart Grehan claimed the biggest victory of his career as the Irishman triumphed in The 131st Amateur Championship at Royal Liverpool in England last month.

In a tight, tense 36-hole showdown, the 33-year-old from County Louth thwarted a late rally by Matt Moloney of the United States and won by one hole to be the first Irish winner since James Sugrue in 2019.

A year after his County Louth club-mate, Gavin Tiernan, had lost in the final at Royal St George’s, Grehan went one better and followed in the footsteps of the decorated Irishman, Joe Carr, who won the first of his three Amateur Championship titles at Royal Liverpool in 1953.

As well as joining a roll of honour of considerable distinction, Grehan’s success also earned him an exemption into The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale this month, the 2027 US Open, and, by tradition, an invitation to play in the Masters Tournament in the United States.

On a bright, breezy day over the famed Hoylake links, which staged the very first Amateur Championship in 1885, it was Moloney who gained the upper hand in the morning’s opening 18 holes.

While Grehan struggled to find his rhythm, especially on the front nine, Moloney was largely neat and tidy from tee to green and could have fashioned a bigger advantage had his putting been more clinical.

Two up after five holes, the American would increase that lead to three on the 12th as Grehan failed to get up and down from a mound to the left of the green.

The Irishman, ranked 46th

on the world amateur golf rankings, needed a spark, and he got it on the par five 13th with a birdie and won his first hole of the day when Moloney missed his own birdie putt from seven feet.

The American then made his first bogey of the round on the 14th and lost the hole before Grehan squared the match on the 16th as his opponent was punished after going into the greenside bunker.

The momentum was certainly with Grehan, but the pendulum swung back in Moloney’s favour on the 18th. Grehan’s booming drive found the bunker near the green and he had to come out sideways.

Moloney, meanwhile, played a skilful chip to within four feet and rolled in the birdie putt to take a one-hole lead into lunch.

His advantage did not last long, however. The 20-year-

old made a double-bogey on the 19th and a bogey on the 20th to hand Grehan a onehole lead.

The fluctuating nature of the match continued as Moloney responded on the 21st with a birdie to restore parity before inching ahead again when Grehan three-putted the 22nd.

The large gallery, bolstered by a sizeable and vocal following of County Louth members who had flown in for the final, were savouring an intriguing, keenly fought contest.

Having squared the match again on the 23rd, Grehan conjured a couple of telling moments as the tie intensified.

The 2025 Great Britain & Ireland Walker Cup player made a crucial 25-foot putt for par to stay level on the 24th before playing a sublime approach to within five feet on the par five 26th which led to

an eagle and a one hole lead.

When Moloney got into trouble on the 28th, then three-putted the 33rd, Grehan was three holes up but his American rival, who had been to the 18th green and beyond in all of his previous rounds en route to the final, refused to throw in the towel.

He birdied the 34th to win a hole back and reduced the deficit to just one when Grehan missed a 12-foot putt for par on the 35th.

The title would be decided on the 36th and Grehan held his nerve amid the tension to match Moloney’s par and become the 131st amateur champion.

Grehan’s name now sits alongside the likes of Sir Michael Bonallack, Jose Maria Olazabal, Sergio Garcia, and more recently, Aldrich Potgieter as amateur champions.

The R&A again provided live stream coverage of the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final, plus highlights with coverage also broadcast by Sky Sports in the United Kingdom and New Zealand.

This is the 19th time The Amateur Championship has been played at Royal Liverpool where the inaugural staging took place in 1885. No other club has hosted on more occasions.

The 132nd Amateur Championship will be played at Royal Portrush from 14 – 19 June 2027.

Grehan said afterwards:  “I’m absolutely over the moon. So much hard work has gone into it. This morning I got off to a really slow start. I was really struggling with my swing and lunch came at a good time to reset.

“I went in at lunch on my own and just took a few minutes, and spoke to Dean (Robertson, GB&I captain). I met with my coach, Dave Ruddy, on the range, and we talked through a couple of things. I played really well this afternoon and hit some great shots.

“Obviously coming down the stretch, there were a few iffy ones, but there’s so much pressure on and so much at stake so it’s bound to happen. I played the last hole really, really well and got the job done.

“The support was amazing. They (County Louth members) are the best supportive club in Ireland, to be honest. They go everywhere. My boss came over today, my coaches came over, my family came over.

“The atmosphere was brilliant for both of us. To have them out there and doing it in front of them is really incredible.”

Stuart Grehan of Ireland relaxes with the trophy after winning The 131st Amateur Championship at Royal Liverpool in England last month. (Photo credit The R&A)

Next year’s open in Scotland at $345 per day

The ticket ballot for The 155th Open at St Andrews in Scotland next year has opened for fans to submit ticket applications to attend the championship taking place from July 11-18, 2027.

Ticket prices for The 155th Open will start from £40 ($NZ92) on practice days for an adult and £150 ($NZ345) for an adult on championship days.

The Open remains one of the most family-friendly major sporting events with free tickets available to under-16s thanks to the long-running Kids Go Free initiative. Almost half a million young people have attended The Open for free since it was introduced. Discounted tickets are also available for 16 to 24-year-olds. These tickets must be applied for in the ballot.

Fans can register their interest for the ticket ballot via TheOpen.com from now until it opens on July 6 when ticket applications can then be submitted. Fans will need to be members of One Club, the free-to-join digital membership programme presented by Mastercard.

Mark Darbon, chief executive of one of world golf’s two governing bodies The R&A, said: “The Open return-

ing to St Andrews is one of the truly iconic occasions in the sporting world and the demand to attend the championship at the home of golf is always extremely high.

“We are committed to delivering a world class fan experience that reflects the stature of The Open. We have recently invested in elevating the championship through new enhancements like the last-chance qualifier, heroes classic and additional on-site entertainment and activities for fans.

“Whether it is watching the world’s best men’s players on the Old Course, enjoying the atmosphere or sharing the occasion with family and friends, fans can expect an unforgettable week and outstanding value for money. We want The Open to be accessible to as many people as possible and are proud to continue offering free admission for under-16s and discounted tickets for young adults as part of that commitment.

“By attending The Open, fans are also helping to support the future of golf with proceeds generated by the championship reinvested in activities which underpin our recently announced new strategy which aims to inspire more people to play and engage with golf more

frequently worldwide, sustaining the sport’s positive current momentum.”

The R&A now offers general admission tickets alongside a selection of accommodation packages, including the popular Open Camping Village, which are available to purchase now. Fans seeking an enhanced experience at The Open can also explore a variety of hospitality options, with three new experiences released via TheOpen.com following record early premium sales for the championship.

The championship will return to the home of golf for the first time since a record-breaking 290,000 fans attended The 150th Open in 2022, a historic occasion that culminated in Australian Cameron Smith producing a remarkable final-round 64 over the Old Course to lift the famous Claret Jug. The 150th Open at St Andrews generated over £300 million in economic benefit for Scotland, which included a £106 million direct boost to the Scottish economy and £201 million in global destination marketing.

Visit TheOpen.com for further information or to register your interest in the ticket ballot.

Chamblee calls out bad behaviour — and Woods NEWS

By Neville Idour

With all the bad behaviours in the spotlight in recent times, including the US Open at Shinnecock, it is not surprising that television golf commentator Brandel Chamblee has waded in to the discussion with his pointed views as he sees it.

One of the more notable indiscretions at Shinnecock involved Joaquin Niemann who was given a two stroke penalty for throwing a club on the par four sixth hole which gave him a score of 11. This gave the golf world cause to discuss the issue of player behaviour on the golf course. Jon Rahm added ammunition when caught on a television microphone during the second round screaming the f word after missing a short putt. The discussion made its way to “Live From” programme on the Golf Channel, where Chamblee tried to pin down when all the explosive outbursts and cursing started becoming a bit too common.

He said: “I never saw Jack Nicklaus throw a club or yell an F-bomb, or hear a profane word from him on the golf course. I never saw Arnold Palmer do it,

or Tom Watson. Pick any player. Greg Norman, with all the bad losses he had, he never threw a club and never swore. Likewise Phil Mickelson, I’ve never seen him throw a club or drop an F-bomb.”

This is where his opinion gets even more to the point of when the trends really gathered momentum, saying “The same wasn’t true about Tiger Woods. One of the best players ever, he was one of the most profane golfers to ever play the game. Nobody ever criticised him, he skated through.”

Golf fans who witnessed Woods in his prime playing years, certainly know he didn’t keep his language G rated inside the ropes. The teenagers of those days are now in their 20s and others are older. Having grown up in the Tiger days many saw his behaviour as acceptable because he was an idolised world number one seemingly above being censured. His habit of regularly spitting was also hardly good viewing. Once we saw him land one straight in the cup (on the green).

Chamblee admits when he was playing on the PGA Tour he said some choice words and threw a club once or twice.

But it was a different era, not one where cameras follow players every step of the way. So the challenge to maintain composure is always there.

“But with that burden comes extraordinary wealth. It goes with the spotlight … and composure is a skill. It’s lazy to throw clubs, and it’s lazy to throw F-bombs when

you know the whole world is watching.” It is very difficult to not agree with Chamblee. Rather, players should appreciate the privilege they have and learn from outstanding examples from the past mentioned earlier and those of today’s players like Ryan Fox, Adam Scott, Jason Day and many others.

Scheffler shows his hidden colours

By Neville Idour

Last month we ran a piece asking if Brooks Koepka shows his true colours.

This month, however, in view of recent happenings, we ask if Scottie Scheffler has been showing his hidden colours, although in earlier days it would more likely have been his true colours. It is unbecoming for a world number one player to be involved in his recent actions.

Not in our wildest dreams could we imagine any of the best women professionals such as Nelly Korda or Lydia Ko indulging in similar behaviours. Or as we detailed in the other story in this issue about bad behaviours, other former male legends and our own kiwi Ryan Fox never falling short on the behaviour front. We can add Bob Charles and Michael Campbell to that list. Back to Scheffler and the outburst at the recent Memorial Tournament, ironically hosted by Jack Nicklaus.

In the first round Scheffler let fly at caddie Ted Scott on the 16th hole and every word was heard on the broadcast thanks to an on course microphone.

Scheffler pulled his tee shot left into the water and felt the club selected was wrong and Scott misjudged the wind. As if Scheffler wasn’t there to feel the wind himself?

Yelling at Scott saying: “I never thought that seven iron was the one. (Why did

you hit it?). I don’t know what to do. (Go play your third shot, silly boy).”

Not surprisingly, Scott had walked ahead as Scheffler yelled: “I can’t hear a word you’re saying.” (Probably what Scott hoped).

The comedy continued as Scheffler continued to rant, saying on his way to the drop zone: “I felt like that was a good shot.” (Yeah right).

“Now I’m in the water because the wind came in from the right (How dare you).

Absolutely flushed a seven iron, and we get the wind wrong, and I’m in the water.” (Couldn’t you feel the wind Scottie?… and I love the royal we.)

“I don’t think you understand how frustrating that is.” (Well maybe I do because that probably cost me another lot of money off my caddie fee).

Couldn’t resist the facetious musings in brackets that Ted Scott might have muttered.

After a good start being two under par after nine holes, a couple of bogeys and then the water ball saw his frustration boil over as he could be seen struggling to keep his anger under control. His mood embraced the full spectrum of frustration, disbelief, perplexed, even clueless.

“It’s so frustrating. I’ve lost a ball. (Don’t fret. It won’t cost you $10 like for most golfers). I hit good shots and drop it from hazards. You cannot get the wind wrong,” he said concluding a non stop two minute rant. No surprise that caddie Scott

was conspicuously silent throughout.

Talking to media later about what went wrong on the 16th Scheffler had it off pat by then.

“Just another really good iron shot (Oh really) and the wind switched from down off the right to significantly in off the right. (Wow. Can anyone understand that?). Just don’t really know what I’m supposed to do there, outside of trying to hit a good shot (Don’t you try to hit a good shot every time?) … and then it’s frustrating when it doesn’t work out.”

Ted Scott has been his bagman for 19 of his 20 PGA Tour titles and all four of his major championship wins.

But their on course exchanges have certainly been noticeable during 2026. At the Cadillac Championship in May, Scheffler was seen fuming at Scott after missing a tap-in par on the ninth hole with the commentator quipping: “Ted Scott’s ears may be bleeding by day’s end.”

Despite such occurences Scheffler is generally known for a calm, dispassionate on course demeanour often seeming to be unaware of the large crowds present. However his history reveals a passionate and sometimes volatile competitor.

His long time coach is Randy Smith and he has revealed that Scheffler had a fiery, dangerous temper in his younger years. During his teenage tournaments frustration over poor rounds saw him damage lockers, punch mesquite bushes and

scorch anything in his path. In one notorious incident he struck a bush so hard that a deep thorn injury nearly required surgery, although he stubbornly refused to leave the course and the event. So currently while he usually maintains outwardly excellent poise, as we have seen his temper occasionally surfaces in the ways mentioned. Plus, generally, in past events like the RBC Heritage he has been seen hurling clubs into the turf, and during putting slumps, he has tossed golf balls into the trees. That awful habit of some professionals in anger, throwing their balls like that or in the water has always annoyed me. Why not just throw it to the fans or maybe give it to a youngster. Ted Scott has previously stated that taming these on course loose cannon outbursts was crucial in Scheffler progressing from a temperamental college protégé to a consistent world number one. And the next step? … to aim for the behavioural standards set by the outstanding players mentioned earlier in this story — and for a professed Christian. No one can expect perfection in life. Just for a world number one golfer who pockets thousands of dollars every time he hits a little white ball until it rolls into a small hole, for his living, to be grateful he isn’t on rubbish collection earning peanuts by comparison, or some similar thankless task for a living every working day. Way to go Scottie.

World news in brief NEWS

By Neville Idour

McIlroy against PGA Tour changes

Rory McIlroy doubts whether all the new PGA Tour changes will actually improve it.

He worries that some decent tournaments will become glorified Korn Ferry Tour events under the new two-tier regime. He opines that LIV Golf created a false economy in golf with the PGA Tour feeling it had to react by increasing prize money and creating the much criticised signature events to stem the flow of high ranking players to LIV.

With the LIV big money threat lessened recently, McIlroy wonders if the old PGA Tour system wasn’t so bad after all.

“I’ll continue to play my schedule, which is getting less and less as the years go by. It’s funny, they’ve done all this work and you start to realise the way the tour was before LIV was actually pretty good, in fact even the best.”

McIlroy is concerned about some strong and popular events on the PGA Tour seeing their status reduced under the new two-tier system. He mentioned the Canadian Open as a prime example, being such a historic national open, along with other similar events, facing diminished status as a second tier event.

“I don’t think the Canadian Open should be a glorified Korn Ferry event. There’s going to be certain events that might lose their stature if a sponsor doesn’t come up with $US30 million … and that’s a tough ask.”

Richard Bland: Best decision I ever made

English golfer Richard Bland said: “I’ve been here since day one of LIV Golf. I’m probably one of the few players that has played every single event.”

Bland wasn’t offered mega money to make the move. It’s been a case of working hard to maintain his position, which he has done successfully.

“Unbelievable players came with big contracts. I knew that wasn’t coming my way. I had to play well to keep my place, year on year, so it’s the best decision I ever made.”

He is part of the select group of LIV originals, along with Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood and asserts there is real unity among them.

“We all had each other’s backs. Some took the heat more than others but we all stood together.”

Four years on that unity is more important than ever. He has full confidence in chief executive Scott O’Neil to deal with the current situation.

Bland, 53, has played some of the best golf of his career with LIV, and hopes to see out his full time golf career with LIV in 2027.

“I don’t have a bad word to say about the whole league (LIV). It has been the best four years of my golfing career, in some respects. I’m always going to be truly thankful for it.”

Trump building a course in Vietnam

United States president Donald Trump is to build another golf course, this time in

Vietnam, costing well north of $US1.5 billion.

However with Trump involved there is a bulldozer affect for local people because of the land involved. Apparently families will lose their farms, their livelihoods and even the graves of their loved ones. The cemetery is being dismantled to make way for the golf course and luxury residential project.

Residents are unhappy as the place is home to their ancestors graves and is their only source of income from farming. The compensation they will receive is an unfair pittance of about $3 per square metre.

Trump’s second son Eric called the project: “The envy of all of Asia and the entire world.”

Yeah right. The one thing that has been consistent about each Trump golf course or other projects is he manages to upset, financially damage or marginalise the local community.

2027 NZ Hickory Open confirmed

The 2027 New Zealand Hickory Open will again be played at Shirley Links at the Christchurch Golf Club on Saturday and Sunday, January 30 and 31.

Saturday will feature 18 holes foursomes and Sunday will feature the 36 holes Open Championship. It is open to amateur or professional men and women. A full programme of additional hickory events will be available to enter separately from Wednesday, January 27.

Entry fees are $80 for the foursomes and $150 for the open singles championship. For the 18 holes nett singles the cost is $100. There is a presentation dinner on the Friday and a celebration dinner on Sunday. The Australian Hickory Champs are scheduled for 2027 and the Melbourne Championship from October 4-6, 2027.

Mickelson’s future looking doubtful

Five years ago Phil Mickelson became the oldest player to ever win a major at the 2021 PGA Championship at 50 years of age after one of the greatest sporting comebacks.

Now the six time major champion has yet to play a major in 2026 because of family health reasons. He has lifetime exemptions for the Masters Tournament and the PGA Championship, but apart from those he could be a man without a country’ if LIV Golf does not continue.

Because of his allegiance to LIV Golf he faces having to serve a suspension of at least a year plus pay a mega fine. At this stage in life he is likely to avoid both. However, apart from his two lifetime majors,  he may face having to say sayonara to professional golf as he just might have nowhere to go.

Scheffler: “I play golf to glorify god”

Well hallelujah Scottie. Now we know why?

He explained it recently when asked why he plays the game.

“I think it always comes back to the why. I think there is always something that gets mixed up with faith too. Like it’s not a bad thing to pursue excellence.

“My identity isn’t a golf score. All I’m trying to do is play golf to glorify god. That’s why I’m here. I practice to glorify god. I’m not here to inspire someone else to be the best player in the world, because what’s the point. It’s not a fulfilling life. It’s fulfilling from a sense of accomplishment but not from the deepest places of your heart. You get to number one and what’s the point. I think to myself why do I want to win this golf tournament so badly? I don’t know. Because if I win, it’s going to be awesome for about two minutes.

“I love getting out and playing and practicing, but at the end of the day I don’t understand the point. I don’t know if I’m making any sense or not. I love the challenge and playing this game for a living. It’s one of the greatest joys of my life. My family is my priority. If it ever affected my home life this is the last thing I would do for a living. I’d rather be a great father than a great golfer.”

That is a fine sentiment but surely one would hope they could be both, whatever their chosen vocation. His explanations give a great insight into the person and why he seems to play in his own bubble without any particular affinity with the fans.

PGA Tour loses another loyal sponsor

Rocket Companies has spent $US150 million in its 13-year partnership with the PGA Tour, including $US100 million as title sponsor of the Rocket Classic. However Rocket has decided its investment is no longer matched by the value it receives so the eighth Rocket Classic this season will be the final one. The classic has won awards and built a philanthropic reputation.

A major factor in Rocket pulling the plug was the overhaul of the PGA Tour and the two tier system. Rocket Companies didn’t want to end up in the track two of the second tier and it didn’t want a bar of track one either because of the hefty price tag associated with it. So the die was cast.

Time’s 100 most influential sports people

Rory McIlroy, Nelly Korda and Jeeno Thitikul have been named in the Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in sports 2026 list.

It surprised that world number one Scottie Scheffler missed out, although he made the 2026 most influential people list. Nevertheless he did have the PGA Tour’s best strokes gained average.

He’s also leading the driving statistics this year and is also the most consistent at finding the greens in regulation.

PGA Tour copies LIV — again

LIV Golf has plans to focus on national opens around the world after its success in South Korea, Australia and South Africa.

The PGA Tour has noticed this and is working to counter that by suddenly deciding to join the DP World Tour and PGA Tour of Australasia to co-sanction the Australian Open for 2027, 2028 and 2029. It was known as the fifth major and still carries immense prestige.

It has always been considered a prestige event and no wonder when you see that Rory McIlroy, Jack Nicklaus and Jordan Spi-

eth, amongst others, have their names on the trophy. Whether this move will translate into attracting more top 10 golfers is a moot point. It is well known that Scottie Scheffler has specifically stated that he does not want to play outside the USA often.

2027 ticket prices eye watering Ticket prices for the 2027 Masters Tournament and the 2027 Open Championship have been released and the good news is that Masters tickets will remain on a par with 2026 prices. Daily tournament round badges from Thursday to Sunday remain at $US160 each. Monday and Tuesday practice sessions stay at $US125 while Wednesday, which includes the par three contest, stay at $US150. These prices seem a snip compared to the US Open at Shinnecock where they ranged from $US217 to $US267. Fans are most appreciative of the value the Masters gives compared to other major sporting events. Unfortunately applications closed on June 26.

However there is time to get your tickets for the 2027 Open Championship. The ticket ballot opens on July 6 and closes on July 24. The costs have raised eyebrows at $US202 for the opening two rounds and $US229 for Saturday and $US256 for Sunday. The final round price is a 46 per cent rise on 2026 at Royal Birkdale. Many users on social media have called them “a rip off” and “scandalous”.

DP World Tour biggest loser

Rory McIlroy’s former agent Chubby Chandler reckons the DP World Tour will be the biggest loser if LIV Golf fails and it leaves several of LIV’s biggest names precariously placed.

Chandler said: “I think it’s a massive missed opportunity by the DP World Tour. They could have had a lot of the LIV money and made their tour better. They could have legitimised the LIV tour with their world ranking points.”

He also pointed out how the PGA Tour had benefitted from LIV, then predicted that the PGA Tour will need to change too. The PGA Tour players are now playing for a lot more prizemoney because of LIV. I wouldn’t be surprised if the $US20 million signature events have to be scaled back because I can’t see how the PGA Tour can keep sustaining that.

Graeme McDowell’s regrets

Northern Irishman Graeme McDowell has made no secret of the regrets he has about some of his statements when he joined LIV Golf.

“I wish I hadn’t claimed LIV was growing the game. I should have just said this is good for my bank account. I was ready to jump ship and go get a real job. Then these guys came along and said hey we’re going to do this tour. Do you want to come play? I love playing and competing.

“I don’t think we could ever have imagined how deep the hatred would go. It’s funny, but if we can shift the nasty Saudi Arabia narrative away and bring in some US money it will improve matters.”

McDowell would welcome downsizing the tour to make it more commercially viable.

It’s more than golf for the golf traveller, says survey

GOLF NEWS

Anew survey has found that the modern golf traveller is increasingly choosing destinations on the strength of their wider lifestyle offering – with food, wellness and cultural experiences now rivalling course quality as key drivers for bookings.

The research, conducted by British marketing agency 18Players in partnership with International Golf Travel Market (IGTM), found that nearly four in five golfers (78.9 per

cent) would be more likely to book a destination offering a strong mix of golf and lifestyle experiences over one focused purely on the golf.

Good food emerged as the single most influential factor, with 83.6 per cent of respondents saying great local food and fine dining would most improve a golf holiday.

More than half of those surveyed said non-golf elements – including wellness, scenery and culture – were either very or extremely im -

portant when selecting a trip, while 79.2 per cent said they would consider travelling with a larger group of friends or family.

The findings point to a broader shift in how golf resorts are competing for business. Properties such as Costa Navarino in Greece and Hotel Finca Cortesin in Spain have already moved in this direction, building seasonal dining programmes and regional wine offerings into their core proposition.

Others, including Cornelia Hotels Golf & Spa in Turkey, are incorporating heritage experiences and guided cultural excursions to connect guests with their surroundings beyond the resort.

The mixed-travel dynamic is also coming into sharper focus. When asked what makes a destination work for golfers and non-golfers travelling together, respondents pointed to good food and dining (73.1 per cent) and a wide range of off-course ac -

tivities (70.9 per cent) as the most important considerations – underlining the pressure on destinations to cater for the whole group, not just the golfers in the party.

Fiona Ashton, event manager at IGTM, said: “The modern golf traveller wants more than tee times. Golf remains the anchor of the trip, but travellers are now choosing destinations that can offer exceptional dining, wellness, culture and experiences for non-golfers too.”

Record rise of female golfers in the United States

When it comes to post-pandemic participation gains in recreational golf in the United States, women and girls have outpaced their male counterparts and accounted for a greater share of growth.

According to research from the National Golf Foundation (NGF), over the past six years (from 2020 to 2025), there’s been a 45 per cent rise in the number of on-course, female golfers. This participant pool has experienced a net gain of 2.5 million, climbing to more than 8.1 mil-

lion in total, the highest count on record.

During that same six-year span, there’s been a corresponding 12 per cent rise among the male golfer population – a net increase of 2.3 million players.

In total, women and girls have accounted for 52 per cent of the net participation gains in green grass golf from 2020 to 2025. This shift has helped push female representation within the traditional golfer population to 28 per cent, the highest proportion on record, and up from 20 per cent in 2012.

The momentum of recent years, says the

Further evaluation on golf ball distance debate

Over the past eight years, The R&A and the United States Golf Association (USGA) have raised concern about golf ball distance increases and the long-term consequences of failing to address this consistent trend.

Through a series of formal feedback processes and numerous individual stakeholder meetings, the governing bodies agreed on an across-the-game change in how golf balls are tested via the overall distance standard (ODS).

Recently, two significant developments have emerged in the efforts to address the impact of distance on the game:

* Feedback from the industry related to the date of implementation of the updated ODS testing approach indicated that the majority support a single-date implementation (2030) versus a twodate, phased implementation (2028 and 2030).

* Constructive discussions between the governing bodies, PGA Tour leadership, the PGA Tour Player Advisory Council (PAC), DP World Tour leadership and other stakeholders yielded three key outcomes: (a) recognition that distance continues to increase at the elite level; (b) a concern by the tours that the updated ODS testing approach may not achieve the desired results; (c) a collec-

tive willingness to reconsider alternative approaches that may more materially impact the pace of future distance increases, while minimising disruption to the overall golf market.

A joint statement from the four organisations said that given these developments The R&A and USGA will take the appropriate amount of time to assess a range of possible options and determine the path forward.

Specifically, the governing bodies will work closely with key stakeholders – including the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and their respective members – to review, test and implement options that have a meaningful impact on distance at the elite level.

These efforts will ensure the elite game does not become too one-dimensional while continuing to emphasise the importance of shot-making. There will be no change to the ODS testing approach until January, 2030, while these options are evaluated.

The joint statement said: “The R&A, the USGA, PGA Tour and DP World Tour are confident in the path forward and committed to working collaboratively, and with other key stakeholders, to ensure the long-term health of the game.”

NGF, has more than reversed the declines seen in the female participation ranks following the so-called great recession from 2007-2009. Consider that prior to the past two years, the highest number of on-course, female golfers was 7.1 million in 2006.

The economic downturn that occurred just under two decades ago was felt acutely in many industries, particularly a discretionary pursuit like golf. And the impact from a gender perspective was especially profound.

From 2007 through 2012, the number

of on-course, female golfers dropped by 30 per cent, a net decline of 2.1 million.

On the men’s side, the net decline was greater (2.6 million), but the comparable proportional change was only -11 per cent. That gap is telling.

Today, women and girls in the United States not only make up a higher proportion of new golfers, including beginners and returners, they also have greater representation among off-course only participants and among non-golfers who are interested in playing on a course.

The greatest game ever played?

By Neville Idour

What’s the greatest game of golf ever played?

Now there’s a controversial question. Talking about golf I’m sure there would be a multitude of opinions coming up with many different answers. Was it one of Bobby Jones performances?  How about Arnold Palmer or Jack Nicklaus? Was it one of their many wins, such as the famous Duel in the Sun between Nicklaus and Tom Watson at the 1977 Open Championship?

What about Greg Norman? He featured in many great battles. Phil Mickelson also enjoyed some notable duels, none more so than that thrilling duel with Henrik Stenson at Royal Troon in the 2016 Open Championship.

Mickelson and Stenson had both left the rest of the field in their wake and out of the running, while they stunned the galleries with their brilliant play trading birdies and eagles. It was said interest peaked so much that it broke the internet and crashed websites, such was the clamour to watch the drama. I well remember watching the television coverage myself and being transfixed by the duel as Stenson shot 63 to eventually pull ahead and win by three shots from Mickelson who shot a bogey free 65.

Some could no doubt pinpoint a Tiger Woods victory or what about Michael Campbell’s wonderful win at the 2005 US Open when he outplayed Woods down

the game from the accomplished players he caddied for, charging them a princely 25 cents a round. He wouldn’t have entered the US Open had he not been asked. To which he said: “I haven’t given it a thought.” The USGA president said “Give me five dollars and you are in.”

“So that’s how I entered” said Ouimet. He sailed through the qualifier with scores of 74 and 78. However, a problem remained, finding a caddie. Eddie and brother Jack Lowery skipped school to watch the qualifier. There they met Ouimet who employed Jack as his caddie. But Jack’s truancy was discovered and Jack returned to school next day, but Eddie didn’t.

Instead the 10-year-old Eddie sprinted to the Country Club getting there about 10 minutes before Ouimet’s tee time and gave him the news. In the same breath he offered to take his brother’s place on the bag insisting “I’ve never lost a ball.”

Not mentioning he had rarely caddied. Ouimet, aware of Lowery’s tender age, hesitated, but realising the dilemma, accepted the offer. Decades later Ouimet was still gracious to Lowery saying he would never forget the role he played.

So, let the game begin with no one expecting what would transpire over the next three days. Back then the US Open was held over an intensive two days, with morning and afternoon rounds each day.

NEWS

In the years that followed Ouimet went on to cement his name in golf, in the process establishing the Francis Ouimet caddie scholarship fund which still provides significant financial support. To date more than 6,300 students have received scholarships. Lowery, who did likewise, started playing golf soon after and sponsored up and coming stars including the 1964 US Open champion Ken Venturi. His win had a huge effect on the golf world. In 1913 fewer than 300 courses existed but by 1920 that number had ballooned to 1,089. The number of players rocketed from 350,000 in 1913 to around 2.1 million 10 years later. This was a time when the British dominated golf and the game was mainly for the elite. At the time Ouimet was hailed as the father of American golf. A genuine American sports icon. Ouimet’s win would go on to inspire future legends like Bobby Jones who recalled decades later: “As a boy in Atlanta I waited for the (news) paper to read about Francis’ playoff against Vardon and Ray. From that time on he has been an idol of mine. When an idol endures for 45 years you know he must have a special quality. There have been many great golfers since Ouimet but none who gave more to the game.’’

the home stretch. That was some watch. Well, believe it or not, the answer to all of these and others is no!

We have to go way back well over 100 years to the 1913 US Open to find the answer to our headline question.

Amateur golfer Francis Ouimet (pronounced we-met) produced an extraordinary performance to upset British favourites Harry Vardon and Ted Ray at The Country Club, Brookline, Massachusetts, which would not host the US Open again until 2022.

A 20-year-old at the time, Ouimet was fresh off a loss in the US Amateur when the president of the United States Golf Association asked him if he wanted to play in the US Open. Ouimet initially declined, but accepted the invitation after his boss gave him time off to play.

However finding a caddie was more of a problem. Eddie and brother Jack Lowery played hooky from school to watch the golf and Jack agreed to caddie for Ouimet. But a truant officer caught Jack, so Eddie pleaded with Ouimet to take his brother’s place and he agreed. So began their remarkable partnership. Ouimet grew up just 275 yards from the Country Club’s 17th green in a humble home. He often gathered balls from the course and bartered several dozen for his first proper club at a sporting goods shop.

In the years that followed he worked at the Country Club as a caddie and learned

On day one Ouimet scored 77 and 74 for a 151 total, leaving him tied seventh, four shots in arrears of co-leaders Harry Vardon and fellow Englishman Wilfrid Reid who both shot 75 and 72 and two behind Ted Ray. It was looking very much like the trophy was bound for Europe.

On day two Ouimet scored the day’s best round, a 74, which lifted him to tied with Vardon and Ray on top of the leaderboard. However all three struggled with 79s in the afternoon final round. So they were headed for an 18 hole playoff next day.

Early press reports were over the moon with the crowd estimate of 10,000, the biggest turnout for a US Open up to that time. Surprise, surprise, there was almost no support for Vardon or Ray who both three putted the 10th hole to allow Ouimet to grab a lead he would not lose.

A double bogey six on the 15th ended Ray’s hopes.  This left Ouimet to reach the 18th with a one shot lead over Vardon. Ouimet scored a solid four while Vardon struggled with a six leaving Ouimet and caddie Eddie Lowery to celebrate a three shot win as the crowd immediately cheered.

Ouimet then passed his hat around the crowd for his little caddie. A total sum of between $50 and $150 was raised. So the two fledgelings from humble origins had proven that golf was for all and not just a rich man’s sport.

Ray was most impressed with Ouimet saying: “He played better golf all three days than any of us” while Vardon was just as praiseworthy noting: “We have no excuses. Francis produced the highest class of golf. America should be nothing but proud of her new champion.”

Ouimet would play many times against Jones in the 1920s, usually losing but there was great respect between them. It is very hard to fully explain Ouimet’s impact on golf, but the boom we continue to see now, perhaps in more ways than one, was started by Ouimet. We will end this tribute to Ouimet with some insight into the kind of person he was from daughter Barbara McLean.

She spoke to Golfweek in 2013 at the age of 92 and said her father was “just dad, a very, very modest man” and for most of her and sister Jane’s childhoods never knew the grandness of what Francis Ouimet had accomplished as a young man.

To Barbara, Ouimet was the father who greeted them in the mornings at breakfast and sat at the dinner table in the evenings. “Always he would ask how was school today? He never talked about himself.”

Later, when she attended college she would drive with her father to the public transport stop where he would take the train to work while “I took the car to my college classes. I should have been the one taking the subway.”

Ouimet also served a few years in the army, married Stella Sullivan in 1918 and opened a sporting goods store with his brother-in-law. However during his working life he was mainly a banker, stockbroker and financial adviser. Born May 8, 1893, he died September 2, 1967. He and Eddie Lowery remained lifelong friends with Lowery being a pallbearer for Ouimet.

Footnote. I cannot recommend strongly enough either getting your hands on the book or for a stirring golf movie “The Greatest Game Ever Played.” It is wonderfully acted and will live long in the memory.

Francis Ouimet.

XDL Indoors – North vs South

Keeping Tradition Alive. Building the Future.

A new chapter in New Zealand Long Drive has officially begun. With the successful launch of the Auckland Regional Indoor Championship and the announcement of the Christchurch Regional Indoor Championship, XDL has established a permanent North vs South pathway that honours the sport’s history while creating an exciting future for generations of athletes. Auckland will stand as the home of the XDL North Island Indoor Championship, while Christchurch becomes the home of the XDL South Island Indoor Championship. Together, these two regional championships form the foundation of a national indoor competition structure that will drive participation, athlete development and community engagement as XDL enters its second decade.

Keeping the North vs South Tradition Alive

The rivalry between the North and South Islands has always been one of New Zealand sport’s greatest traditions. Now, XDL is bringing that tradition to Long Drive. Every alternate year, Christchurch will host the prestigious North vs South Indoor Playoff, where the respective North Island and South Island Champions will compete head-to-head for the coveted title of New Zealand Indoor Champion. This annu-

al rotation creates a true national pathway, ensuring both islands play an equal role in growing the sport while celebrating regional pride, sporting excellence and community connection. It is a championship built on legacy. A championship built for the future.

The Road to the World Stage

The New Zealand Indoor Champion won’t simply earn national recognition. They will secure the opportunity to represent New Zealand on the international stage through the E-Sports World Federation (ESWF), where simulated precision sports are rapidly emerging as one of the fastest-growing categories in global competition. Adding even greater significance to this pathway is the appointment of XDL Founder Olna Ford as President of the ESWF Target Sports Division, overseeing the international development of:

* Sim Long Drive

* Sim Golf

This appointment places New Zealand at the forefront of competitive simulated target sports and creates an unprecedented pathway for Kiwi athletes to compete on the world stage.

Christchurch Secures Its Legacy

XDL is proud to announce that Jordan Pruden Golf, led by local PGA Professional Jordan Pruden, has secured the naming rights to the XDL South Island Indoor Championship. Jordan has long been a supporter of growing the game. Previously backing XDL as a valued Do-Good Sponsor during an earlier Christchurch event, his continued commitment made him the natural choice to help establish Christchurch as the permanent home of South Island Indoor Long Drive. His vision, leadership and belief in the future of the sport will help create opportunities for athletes throughout the South Island for years to come.

Where History Was Made

The decision to establish Christchurch as the home of the South Island Championship carries special meaning. It was at Clearwater Golf Club in 2017 that XDL hosted the first South Island Championship playoff for the New Zealand National Title. That historic event produced another milestone in New Zealand sporting history, with the nation’s first New Zealand Long Black Sam Jones crowned after claiming the inaugural New Zealand National Long Drive Championship. Nearly a decade later, XDL returns

to Christchurch not simply to host another championship—but to continue the legacy that began there.

The Legacy Continues

As XDL celebrates ten years of innovation and international growth, the Indoor Championship programme represents much more than another competition.

It is the next evolution of the #XDLDRIVEFREQUENCY

More regional championships, More participation, More community engagement, More opportunities for juniors, women and emerging athletes. More pathways from grassroots competition to representing New Zealand on the world stage.

With Auckland and Christchurch now permanently linked through the XDL North vs South Indoor Championship Series, the future of New Zealand Long Drive has never been stronger. North vs South.

Founder Olna Ford with Sam Jones

Tradition Meets Innovation. One Nation. Two Islands. One Champion. XDL – Driving the Future of Long Drive.

Founder Olna Ford with Sam Jones.

Don’t Just Get There ... ARRIVE

Celebrating 10 years of driving Long Drive sport with the New Zealand Long Blacks and Aussie Long Ballers, and approaching our 50th event, we knew it was time to redefine the journey itself. This isn’t about simply reaching a destination — it’s about being DRIVEN TO ARRIVE. A special thanks to our incredible First-Class Executive Drivers at ARRIVE Driving Services, for partnering with XDL and the New Zealand Long Blacks. Our exclusive executive drivers are trusted with transporting high-profile guests, sporting icons, and champions who appreciate both performance and luxury — delivered in some of the most premium vehicles on the road.

Our champions are the faces of the sport.

Among them is Jessie Mercer, a powerhouse of the New Zealand Long Blacks Women’s team — a back-toback, record-breaking champion who continues to set new standards and define excellence at the highest level of competition. Alongside her stands the first New Zealand Long Blacks Junior, Krishnav Chand, who has also broken his own record back-to-back — a reflection of a new era where performance, discipline, and presence define the next generation.

This is First Class Mindset - This is XDL - Don’t just get there… ARRIVE.

LONG DRIVE

Krishnav Chand – The Face of XDL Commercial

Driving champions beyond the tee. Into a First Class life.

XDL is proud to announce Krishnav Chand as the face of the XDL Commer-

cial “First Class Mindset” campaign, representing a new era where sport, performance, lifestyle and opportunity come together.

Krishnav is the first New Zealand Long Black Junior, and has already set the tone for the year with back-to-back wins, including a standout performance to take out the Auckland Regional Indoor Championship.

From the very beginning of the season, he has shown what a First Class Mindset truly looks like — consistency, composure, and the ability to perform when it matters most.

Krishnav is winning events and setting standards. DRIVING the First Class Mindset to his peers.

FIRST CLASS MINDSET IN ACTION

This campaign is built on one belief: Champions are not defined only on the tee — they are defined by how they live.

Krishnav represents this shift from athlete to leader — someone whose mindset

extends beyond sport into performance, lifestyle, and opportunity.

The First Class Mindset means:

* Showing up with purpose

* Competing with discipline

* Learning from every round

* Staying grounded through success

* Raising the standard for others

FIRST CLASS PARTNERSHIP

Hilton Auckland – Luxury Stay “A City Escape by the Harbour”

As part of his first commercial endorsement, Krishnav Chand partners with Hilton Auckland, featuring the exclusive luxury experience:

“A City Escape by the Harbour”

Set against the iconic Auckland waterfront, this collaboration brings together:

* Elite sport performance

* Premium lifestyle hospitality

* A First Class approach to travel, recovery, and experience

This marks Krishnav’s first commercial endorsement, aligning XDL with worldclass partners that reflect excellence and ambition.

XDL Births a NEW Era LONG DRIVE

The Green Pinnacle Becomes the Official Home of the XDL Auckland Regional Indoor Championship & XDL North Island Indoor Championship

History was made as XDL proudly launched a new era of competitive Long Drive with the inaugural XDL Auckland Regional Indoor Championship and the XDL North Island Indoor Championship, establishing an exciting new pathway for athletes, communities and future champions across New Zealand. This landmark occasion marks another defining milestone as XDL celebrates 10 years of investing in and growing the sport of Long Drive. Over the past decade, XDL has delivered almost 50 events across eight countries, founded the Aussie Long Ballers and New Zealand Long Blacks, and received 21 international awards recognizing innovation, sporting excellence and visionary leadership.

The championship also launches the next phase of the #XDLDRIVEFREQUENCY movement—an ambitious vision centered on more events, more teams, more participation and more opportunities,

connecting communities through one of the world’s most exciting emerging sports.

The Green Pinnacle — Where the Future Begins

The official home of this groundbreaking championship is The Green Pinnacle, New Zealand’s premier indoor golf performance venue.

Under the leadership of Managing Director Ray Jiang, a respected PGA Professional, elite coach and passionate advocate for growing the game, The Green Pinnacle delivered an event that established a new benchmark for indoor Long Drive in Australasia.

Powered by the latest Trackman technology, every drive was measured with world-class precision, allowing players, spectators and media to experience the incredible speed, power and distance that defines elite Long Drive competition. The technology performed flawlessly throughout the championship, proving that indoor Long Drive can deliver a professional, engaging and broadcast-ready sporting experience.

Equally impressive was the commitment of The Green Pinnacle team. Their professionalism, hospitality and attention to detail went above and beyond, creating an unforgettable experience for athletes, partners and invited guests. Their passion has firmly positioned The Green Pinnacle as the home of indoor Long Drive in New Zealand.

A Celebration of Culture, Community and Legacy

The championship was officially opened with a heartfelt Mihimihi by Tom Irvine of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, acknowledging the importance of partnership, community and the shared journey that continues to shape the future of the sport.

The event brought together members of the New Zealand Long Blacks while proudly celebrating the continued growth

of the Aussie Long Ballers brand. Together they celebrated a decade of innovation, international competition and the collective commitment that has helped establish XDL as a recognized leader in the global Long Drive movement.

There was an unmistakable feeling throughout the venue that everyone present was witnessing the beginning of something much bigger than another championship. Adding even greater significance to the occasion was the presence of the iconic Phillis Meti Tour Bag.

More than simply a golf bag, it represents one of the greatest stories in New Zealand sporting history. Having travelled the world alongside one of Long Drive’s most celebrated champions, it has become a symbol of excellence, resilience and world-class achievement. Standing proudly at The Green

Champions Crowned

The inaugural XDL Auckland Regional Indoor Championship produced outstanding performances from athletes representing both the future and the elite of New Zealand Long Drive.

Junior Champion

Krishnav Chand - First New Zealand Long Black Junior - Winning Drive: 294.3

metres

Women’s Champion

Monica Chau - New Zealand Long Blacks - Winning Drive: 280 metres

Men’s Champion & Longest Drive of the Day

George Wardell - Captain – New Zealand Long Blacks - Winning Drive: 372 metres

Each champion proudly forever securing their place in XDL history as the first official Auckland Indoor Regional Champions.

The Next Chapter Begins

With The Green Pinnacle officially confirmed as the home of the XDL Auckland Regional Indoor Championship and the XDL North Island Indoor Championship, the foundations have been laid for yearround competition, athlete development and a sustainable national pathway. Driven by the #XDLDRIVEFREQUENCY, XDL enters its second decade with a clear purpose—to grow participation, strengthen communities and continue redefining what Long Drive can become. More Events. More Teams. More Participation.. XDL — DRIVING A NEW ERA

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGIONS

Kaikohe Golf Club Harbour Player Sophie Yu Wins Again!

After winning the Autex Muriwai Open, Sophie Yu has continued her outstanding form by taking out the North Shore 54 Hole Classic!

Juwon Kim finishing 2nd

Kaikohe Golf Club were the winners recently 2026 Women’s weekend pennants final, defeating Wellsford Golf Club in a playoff at Redwood Park after a hard fought match!

Lingyao Qu finishing 3rd On the men’s side, Yoon Sang Eom was the leading Harbour player, finishing in 6th place at -5.

2026 Men’s Pennant / Inter Club & Betty Faesen Champions!

The finals hosted recently at Pukekohe Golf Club.

2026 Champions

Bissett: Royal Auckland & Grange Betty Faesen: Royal Auckland & Grange (playoff)

Presidents: Titirangi Championship 1: Royal Auckland & Grange Championship 2: Maungakiekie

Inter Club 1: Titirangi GC Inter Club 2: Waiuku GC (playoff) Inter Club 3: Maungakiekie GC

The 2026 Waikato Women’s Championship Pennant Finals

The 2026 Waikato Women’s Championship Pennant Finals were held was held recently at Matamata Golf Club, bringing together 18 teams for an exciting day of competition played in excellent conditions. With beautiful weather and an immaculately presented course, the finals provided a fitting conclusion to a highly competitive season.

Division 1 featured five teams competing in a six-player format, with each team having a bye during the round-robin stage. Tieke Golf Estate once again demonstrated their dominance, having already secured the division title heading into finals day. They capped off their campaign with a convincing 12–6 win over the host team, Matamata, confirming their position

well clear of the field.

Division 2 produced a closely contested finish. The combined team of Horsham Downs/Pirongia faced off against Ngaruawahia in the final round. While Ngaruawahia had already secured the overall title on match points going into the finals, Horsham Downs/Pirongia delivered a strong performance on the day, winning the match 10 game points

to 2. Despite this result, Ngaruawahia claimed the division with 8 match points, narrowly ahead of Horsham Downs/Pirongia on 7.

Division 3 followed a seeded matchplay format with eight teams competing. The final saw Tieke 2 take on St. Alexander in a tightly fought contest, with Tieke 2 holding firm to secure a 7–5 victory and claim top honours.

Feilding High School Golf

Feilding High

played

Wellington Golf Women’s Weekend Interclub

Women’s weekend Interclub concludes for 2026 with the Mary Alward and Lansdowne, field day at Te Marua GC.

The winning team Shandon Golf Club,

School were the recent winners of the Manawatu Wanganui Secondary School Championship

at Levin Golf Club. William Dunsmore from Horowhenua College won the individual event.

winning pair Sonia Young & Claire Lydon Judgeford Golf Club and the players of the year, Erika Cui Royal Wellington Golf Club (Lansdowne) and Soon Sook Kim Kapiti GC (Mary Alward).

The 2026 Canterbury 4BBB Championship

The 2026 Canterbury 4BBB Championship delivered a day to remember recently played at Waimairi Beach , with history made in both the men’s and women’s competitions.

Played in warm winter conditions on a beautifully presented course, the championship attracted a full field of 108 players competing across the men’s and women’s divisions. The popular pairs format once again produced plenty of outstanding golf, but no one could have predicted the remarkable result that unfolded.

For the first time in the event’s history, both the men’s championship and women’s championship ended in a three-way tie for the title. Under the championship conditions of play, tied winners share the trophy, meaning three pairs were crowned the respective men’s and women’s Canterbury 4BBB Champions after all posting superb rounds.

David Zohrab and Ronan Restieaux, Shane Whooley and Etienne Collier, and Louis Edwards and Nash De Klerk all

shared the championship honours after matching scores of eight-under-par. The trio of champion pairings produced exceptional rounds in a highly competitive field and could not be separated after 18 holes.

Defending champions Mitchell Redmayne and Alfie Bell, who were chasing a rare third consecutive title, were just one shot back in fourth place with a 65 (-7), while the pairing of Sebastian May and Sam Harris claimed the fifth place prize on 66 (-6).

The remarkable scenes continued in the women’s championship where, in another tournament first, three pairs also shared the Women’s title. Eva Yin and Junie Chang, Vanessa Lim and Yoonae Jeong, and Naomi Wallace and Katrina Hall each returned even-par rounds of 72 to finish tied at the top of the leaderboard and become co-champions.

The defending champions from 2025 were unable to reunite this year, creating an open contest, and the three winning

pairings took full advantage to produce an historic finish. Alice Fry and Zaria Bourne were the next best performers, finishing fourth on 74 (+2), while Nutcha Sirawattanakul and Subin Bae rounded out the leading contenders with a score of 75 (+3).

2026 Men’s Shared Winners – From L to R: Nash De Klerk/Louis Edwards, Ronan Restieaux/David Zohrab, and Etienne Collier/Shane Whooley

2026 Women’s Shared Winners – From L to R: Vanessa Lim/Yoonae Jeong, Katrina Hall/Naomi Wallace, and Junie Chang/Eva Yin

While the Gross divisions produced shared championship honours, the Net competitions rewarded some excellent scoring performances of their own. Aaron Neill and Jason Campbell claimed the Men’s Net title with an impressive net 64 (-8), while Naomi Wallace and Katrina Hall completed a memorable day by adding the Women’s Net title to their share of the Gross championship after posting a net 65 (-7).

Several on-course competitions added to the excitement throughout the day. Josh Smith claimed the Men’s Nearest the Pin prize on the 17th hole, while Junie Chang enjoyed a standout day by winning both the Women’s Nearest the Pin on the 8th hole and the Women’s Longest Drive on the 18th. Tim Graham took home the Men’s Longest Drive honours on the 18th hole.

A popular addition to this year’s championship was the Trackman activation on Hole 10. Players embraced the opportunity to test themselves against the technology, with swing speed, ball speed and driving distance all recorded throughout the day. The feature generated plenty of discussion among competitors and provided another fun element to complement the championship competition, with players receiving their data and leaderboard results following the event.

2026 Men’s Shared Winners – From L to R: Nash De Klerk/Louis Edwards, Ronan Restieaux/David Zohrab, and Etienne Collier/Shane Whooley.

2026 Women’s Shared Winners – From L to R: Vanessa Lim/Yoonae Jeong, Katrina Hall/ Naomi Wallace, and Junie Chang/Eva Yin.