Sunraysia Golf Tours - Tournaments

LOCATION: 19TH HOLE

7/2/12

TUNG AND LAIRD TO DEFEND TRI-STATE MASTERS TITLES
Coomealla golfers Craig Tung and Sue Laird will defend their 2011 Tri-State Masters titles in the 2012 20th tournament on May 21st beginning at the Mildura Golf Club Resort then Riverside Golf Club and finally Coomealla Golf club. Last year Tung came from six shots behind in the last round at Coomealla Golf Club to win from fellow Coomealla golfer John Keogh. Tung's three rounds were 76 at Red Cliffs Golf Club, 77 at Riverside and 77 at Coomealla to win by one stroke after standing on the 54th hole all square with Keogh. Since then Tung who normally only plays golf on Wednesday's has reduced his handicap to three whilst Keogh is playing off two. Both players are eligible for the over 50 senior title this year as well. 2010 champion Peter Bywaters from Victor Harbor will be contesting the event for the tenth time along with 2009 champion Steve Spooner representing Riverside Golf Club lining up again for the eighth year. Coomealla's Sue Laird will be looking to win her sixth title running after recording rounds of 79-76 and 78 last year. Laird plays off four and is regarded as the top lady golfer in the Sunraysia district. John Keogh was the Senior champion in 2011 with rounds of 77-73-81 whilst Portsea's Jenny Jeffreys was the ladies Senior champion after rounds of 81-75-90. Other 54 hole stableford sections include over 55, over 65 and A, B, and C grades in both men's and ladies. A popular part of the tournament each year is the 54 hole aggregate stableford four person teams section. Every year this keeps interest in each players round right up to the 54th hole. Last year the Thomas's and Payne's from Traralgon blitzed the opposition when they broke the tournament teams record with an incredible 462 points. This was the equivalent to 38.5 points per person per round over three different golf courses. It is unlikely an aggregate of that magnitude will be challenged in the near future. As a general rule an average of 35 points per player is usually enough to snare the fantastic prize of six nights accommodation with Quest Apartments. Entries for the tournament have far and away exceeded expectations at this early stage with more than fifty percent of the target field already received. We have also been delighted with the social event bookings which have obviously appealed to the first year players. Entries have been received from players from 48 different golf clubs which is most encouraging. Phone 0419 208 337 for any information relating to the 2012 Tri-State Masters.
2012 NEW ZEALAND GOLF TOUR
The seventh Sunraysia Golf Tours New Zealand Golf Tour is only six weeks away and we can't wait. Kauri Cliffs in the Bay of Islands and Jacks Point in Queenstown will provide all of patrons with their first visit to those world renowned clubs. Old favourites such as Taupo's Wairakei and Queenstown's Milbrook will add a great golfing touch along with my favourite NZ golf course Kinloch near Taupo and the Carrington Club in the Bay of Islands.All of these golf courses are spectacular in their own way and will be much easier to take in their scenic splendours from our motorised golf carts. New Zealand in mid March is a great place to golf and holiday. Limited seats are still available on the tour if you get in straight away.
COOMEALLA UPSETS RIVERSIDE IN SUMMER PENNANT FINAL
Coomealla Golf Club edged out Riverside Golf Club to win the 2011 SDGA Summer Pennant at Red Cliffs on Sunday. Tim Knight for Coomy was the hero of the day defeating Kelvin Wilson 3/2, after winning the first six holes. Knight promptly dropped the next three holes and looked to be losing his grip on the match. After a short break and soft drink on the turn he righted the ship to maintain his three hole advantage until the seventeenth. Other winner for Coomy were the consistent Hamish Glasgow and the unpredictable Jason Hartley. For Riverside Andrew Hill and Gannon Bettes were the victors. Another successful Summer Pennant season is now concluded after the original final at Red Cliffs was washed out in December. Red Cliffs Golf Club are to be commended on the condition of their golf course which is in it's best condition ever. If rumours are correct, Red Cliffs will be the team to beat in division one winter pennant this year after not being able to field an A grade team in 2011. Justin McPhee will return after missing last year's pennant season and Tim Walker will play before he heads off to the US in August. Several other big name players are believed to have agreed to join the Cliffs enabling them to represent the club in pennant.
KYLE STANLEY COMES BACK IN THE US
A week can be a long time in golf and so it was once again on Sunday in the Phoenix Open in Arizona. American Kyle Stanley had lost a six shot lead in the last round to loose in a playoff. This week he bounced right back to go into the last round six shots back from Spencer Levin who did a Stanley from the previous week. Stanley was in tears after the round but for much different reasons than the week before. His pay cheque of almost one point one million dollars and a two year exemption on the PGA Tour is a terrific result for the five foot eleven golfer who hits it almost 350 metres off the tee.
PAUL LAWRIE READY TO TURN BACK THE CLOCK
Scotsman Paul Lawrie returned to the worlds top fifty players on Sunday after his easy win in the Qatar Masters. The former 1999 British Open winner was never in danger on the final day of the tournament that had been reduced to 54 holes because of sand storms. Equal runners up were Australia's Jason Day and Sweden's Paul Hanson four shots behind. American bad boy John Daly made a surprising fifth placing just ahead of Spain's Sergio Garcia. Lawrie has been regarded in some golfing circles as a bit of a one hit wonder but this year may see him stamp himself as a real contender in the big world golfing tournaments.

30/1/12

TRI-STATE MASTERS GRABBING GOLFERS ATTENTION
The 20th Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters is certainly grabbing golfers attention around Australia. Entries are coming in thick and fast with twenty five per cent of the tournament quota filled in the first ten days since the entries were released. This is quite phenomenal with thirty per cent of the entries coming from first time players. Northern Golf Club's Peter Fox has entered for the 20th time and is the only player in the field to play in every Tri-State Masters so far. A booklet will be distributed to all players this year with a history of the tournament, it's players, champions, the clubs from whence they came and other information covering the last twenty years. This year the 5000th player mark will be passed with almost 1400 different people from more than 200 golf clubs.. More than 220 players have contested the Tri-State Masters at least five times with 81 entering ten times or more. The prizes on offer this year are also creating a lot of attention with great door prizes and eleven hole in one prizes each worth $10,000 or more. The two social days at Red Cliffs Golf Club and Coomealla Golf Club will also have significant prizes including more hole in one incentives. Whilst it is the golf that attracts the attention of golfers initially, it is the social events that really complete a great weeks holiday. An opening Cocktail Party and closing Presentation Dinner at the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club are great book ends for the week. On Monday night this year it will be a special occasion for Kym and I as we celebrate our 20th year with Trentham Estate at the Winemakers Dinner overlooking the Might Murray River. Trentham Estate have stuck with us through thick and thin and we really value their support. We are delighted that they have produced two anniversary wines for us this year. A 2010 Shiraz and a 2011 Chardonnay which will be in the gift packs for all players. On Tuesday we have booked thirty seats at Stefano's restaurant. Stefano's is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Victoria with people coming to Mildura just to dine there. Wednesday night we have an old fashioned country style dinner after golf at Riverside Golf Club, with a bit of comedy thrown in afterwards. This was booked out last year so the first 120 to book and pay on the entry form will get a seat this year. Thursday night is our favourite night of the week when we wine, dine and dance the night away on the magnificent PS Mundoo Paddleboat. It is going to be a fantastic week of golf, socialising and having fun with nice people whilst always reminding ourselves that "memories live longer than dreams".
LOCAL GOLFERS SHINE IN THE SUN
Scores on Sunraysia golf courses this year have been the best ever in any previous January. Sunraysia's best ever golfer Greg Rhodes has been playing golf to the max as he does every January. Five times this month he has played 36 competition holes in a day between Coomealla and Mildura Golf Clubs. On Saturday he had a shocker at Coomealla where he recorded a 79 but that was soon rectified in the afternoon at Mildura where he reeled off a casual 66! Rhodes just loves playing the game, being a school teacher, January is his opportunity to play as much golf as many people do in a year. Sixteen year old Tom Holmes is a name that could turn a few heads this year. Holmes has had some reasonable rounds in the last two years without causing too much attention. On Saturday at Mildura he changed that perception when he came in with a 68 and 45 stableford points! The putter was on fire as he needed it only 25 times, which helps put a score on the board. Couple that putting with being able to propel a golf ball 190 metres with a six iron and it is not unreasonable to expect big things in golf for Master Holmes this year. It might be crunch time soon for him though as his main sport is hockey, where he represents the senior Sunraysia representative team and cricket is his second love as he is expected to make his senior debut for West in the next week or two. Other players to perform well this month are Cameron Stewart, Steven Hopgood, Brad Steer, Jason Zambelli, Chris Thomas, Rick McMeekin and John Keogh.
UNEXPECTED WASN'T EXPECTED IN ABU DHABI AND CALIFORNIA
Golf is an interesting game where the unexpected really becomes the expected, week in week out. England's Robert Rock played with and slayed the Tiger in Abu Dhabi yesterday. This was really absorbing golf to watch as Rory McIlroy incurred a two stroke penalty for brushing sand which effectively cost him the tournament as he lost by one shot. Woods looked to be set for a comfortable victory going into the last round but he couldn't recapture the form of the first three days. If you don't hit fairways it is difficult to hit greens and this was his biggest problem. Rock was quite composed on the course and played accordingly, particularly over the last nine holes when he must have been expecting a Tiger charge. Afterwards he said that "he was really excited about playing with Tiger and couldn't believe he had played so well". He was also quick to add that "Tiger was terrific to play with and that he totally enjoyed the experience".
Over on the PGA Tour in California American Kyle Stanley died the death of 1000 lashes as he triple bogeyed the 72nd hole for a closing 74 to go into a playoff with Brandt Snedeker who had posted a 67 but was getting ready to leave the course. Naturally Snedeker then gets up and beats Stanley on the second playoff hole. This is the worst way to lose a golf tournament. In Abu Dhabi Rock was two shots clear and settled for a bogey six after taking an unplayable and dropping on the last hole when he could have tried for an unlikely par. Stanley is a prodigious talent. On Saturday he hit driver nine iron onto a par five, which is bloody ridiculous. He will win for sure soon, if he can erase the demons of the 72nd hole out of his mind. It is going to be a fantastic golf season on the PGA Tour and the European Tour. Hopefully some of our Aussie boys can fire up and win a few tournaments.
TOP 100 GOLF COURSES IN AUSTRALIA
Golf Australia Magazine have just released it's top 100 Australian Golf Courses. As usual the judges haven't played the majority of the courses on the list but reputations and money spent with the magazine probably has a bit to do with the rankings, which are. 1. Royal Melbourne West, 2 Kingston Heath, 3 Barnbougle Dunes, 4 Lost Farm, 5 New South Wales, 6 Royal Melbourne East, 7 The National, 8 Victoria, 9 Metropolitan, 10 Royal Adelaide. Really the rankings are done to promote discussion and to sell golf magazines but at the end of the day the rankings are just opinions, like backsides everyone has one. From my point of view Coomealla Golf Club is definitely in the top 60 if not at least the top 100 golf courses in Australia. Everyone is a little bit biased about their own golf course, particularly if you really love it. I play at Coomealla twice a week and look forward to it every time. My favourite golf course in the world is Royal Country Down in Northern Ireland where we will be playing in September on our golf tour to Ireland. Kinloch is my favourite in New Zealand and we will be playing there on our seventh NZ golf tour in March. In Australia I love Kingston Heath followed by Victoria and New South Wales. Royal Adelaide is right up there too along with Barnbougle Dunes and Arundel Hills on the Gold Coast.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE GOLF COURSES - LET ME KNOW ON EMAIL golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

13/1/12

The entry forms for the 2012 20th Annual Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters are now completed and will be send to people on the Sunraysia Golf Tours data base on Monday 16th January. Over $200,000 worth of door prizes, competition prizes and Hole in One prizes will be on offer. An Adventure Houseboat holiday for up to eight people will drawn for the lucky door prize winner. There are stay and play packages to great golf resorts such as the Barwon Heads Golf Club, Tocumwal Golf Club and the Country Club Tasmania casino in Launceston and the Mildura Golf club Resort.Quest Apartments Mildura are partnering with us again and will provide a six night holiday in Mildura for four people for the 2013 Tri-State Masters. Bridgestone Golf has been the official golf brand of the tournament since its inception in 1993 and are great supporters again this year. Local media outlets PRIME Television and Sunraysia Daily newspaper are also strong sponsors and supporters of the Tri-State Masters. The Hole in One prizes are without doubt the best ever offered in an Australian amateur golf tournament,due to the changes in the amateur rules by the R & A on January 1st. Three Honda Jazzz motor vehicles from Auto Synergy Mildura, $10,000 worth of electrical equipment from Jack Abell Mildura, $10,000 worth of floor coverings from Choices Max Miller Mildura, $10,000 spa from Cookes Pools & Spas Mildura, $10,000 worth of furniture from Tilley's Furniture Mildura, a Yamaha motorised buggy, $10,000 cash from Hotondo Homes Mildura, $10,000 cash from the Vines Retirement Village Mildura and $10,000 cash from Murray River Salt add up to $130,000 worth of Hole in One prizes! Then there is the competition prizes from House of Golf Mildura, Bridgestone Golf and Champion Sports including Bushnell rangefinders and Yes putters. Trentham Estate Winery who have been partnering sponsors since 1993 have produced two wines to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the the Tri-State Masters including a 2010 Shiraz and a 2011 Chardonnay. The opening Cocktail Party and the closing Presentation Dinner will both be held in the auditorium of the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club who have been a major sponsoring partner since 1995. The 2012 Tri-State Masters is going to be a fantastic event for all involved and is expected to be booked out in record time this year. For entries phone 03 50 246799 or Email golf@sunraysia golftours.com.au.

21/12/11

TRI-STATE MASTERS $150,000 GOLF EXTRAVAGANZA
The 2012 20th Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters to be conducted from May 20th till May 25th 2012 will offer its competitors the biggest prize pool ever offered in a golf tournament in Sunraysia. Auto Synergy Mildura will offer a Honda Jazz motor vehicle for a hole in one on Mildura Golf Club Resort's brand new par 3 second hole on Monday May 21st, another Honda Jazz is up for grabs on Riverside Golf Club's beautiful closing par 3 eighteenth hole on May 23rd. A third Honda Jazz is available on Coomealla Golf Club's closing par 3 eighteenth hole on May 25th. Prizes to the value of $10,000 in cash will be offered on two holes and $10,000 worth of companies products on two other par 3's plus lucrative prizes on the other four par three holes. Adventure Houseboats will award a lucky competitor a door prize of a fantastic Adventure Houseboat holiday on one of Adventure Houseboats luxury houseboats. Other prizes include holidays, gym equipment and a host of other golfing equipment and prizes. Trentham Estate are producing a commemorative 20th anniversary Tri-State Masters Shiraz and Chardonnay which will be distributed and sampled during the tournament. Advertising of the Tri-State Masters began in golfing journals this month and will continue through to April. With the interest already shown so far since the advertisements appeared last week, organisers are very confident that the tournament will be booked out before the end of March. Two additional optional games of golf are planned with a 4BBB stableford at Red Cliffs Golf Club on Tuesday May 22nd and an ambrose in 4's at Coomealla Golf Club on Thursday May 24th. Social functions are an integral part of the golfing week with an opening Cocktail Party and closing Presentation Dinner at the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club, Trentham Estate Winery Dinner, Poker Tournament at the Mildura Golf Club Resort, Golfers Dinner at Riverside Golf club and a night to remember on the enchanting PS Mundoo Paddleboat. Major sponsoring partners again this year are Sunraysia Daily, Prime Television, Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club, Trentham Estate, Sunraysia Golf Range, Auto Synergy and Adventure Houseboats. Negotiations are continuing with several other potential partnering sponsors. Anyone interested in being involved as a partnering sponsor or participating in the tournament should contact Shane Doherty on 50 246 799 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
POULTER PUTTS TO VICTORY IN AUSTRALIAN MASTERS
The age old adage of "you putt for dough and drive for show" was reinforced once more by Ian Poulter at Victoria Golf Club in the 2011 JBWere Australian Masters. Poulter blew everyone away with his putter taking only 27, 28,27 and 28 putts for the four rounds. Anyone who watched the tournament would attest to the difficulty that most players were finding on the greens. Geoff Ogilvy couldn't buy a putt on Sunday after holing nearly everything on Saturday when he shot a 63. Poulter is a breath of fresh air in world golf. He is not afraid to be different, have opinions and be a really good player at the same time. Luke Donald is also an excellent ambassador for world golf. A polite quiet young man who is professional in every sense. No doubt everyone in Australia were disappointed that Geoff Ogilvy couldn't repeat Saturday's form on Sunday but that's golf. Marcus Fraser from Corowa was the highlight of the day for Aussies on Sunday. Throw in terrific performances from Kieran Pratt, Ashley Hall and Jarrod Lyle and Victorians were done proud. Eighteen year old Italian Matteo Mannasero was disappointing but finished the tournament two under par with a closing 68. This kid is going to be a world superstar in the next few years but obviously it has been a long year for him. The Victoria Golf Club is such a beautiful golf course, both Ian Poulter and Luke Donald tweeted that it has moved into their top ten golf courses in the world. That is high praise indeed.
MILDURA GOLF WEEK WINNERS EXCEL IN AUSTRALIAN MASTERS
Last week the JB Were Australian Masters was telecast into numerous countries around the world on the Golf Channel. The tournament is recognised as a top quality world golf event. All the competitors in the event began playing in junior events somewhere in the world, gaining playing and tournament experience. Five players in the Aussie Masters got their kick starts by winning the Murray Valley Championship in Sunraysia at Mildura Golf Week. Bradley Hughes who has won the Australian Masters before, began his career with a win at Mildura Golf Week in 1985. Marcus Fraser who was second on Sunday won our title three times in 1999-2000 and 2002. Fraser has also won twice on the European Tour. Ashley Hall who finished 6th on Sunday won Mildura Golf Week in 2004-2005. Josh Younger followed on capturing the title in 2006 and Craig Hasthorpe won in 2009. All of these young golfers relished the opportunity of being assisted and promoted by the Victorian Golf Association and supporting Mildura Golf Week. Unfortunately the VGA stopped that assistance and promotion and dropped Mildura Golf Week off the roster for young and up and coming amateurs at the end of 2009. This has been a source of great frustration and disappointment to the Golf Week committee and its organisers. After the performances of those five past winners of Mildura Golf Week at the weekend and a host of other past players that continue to perform well on golf tours all over the world, the Mildura Golf Week committee surely has sufficient ammunition to mount a strong submission for the return of those VGA young guns to attend the 2012 Murray Valley Championship.
2011 GOLF AROUND THE WORLD
Like it or not, Tiger Woods is the Greg Norman of golf today. The crowds at the JBWere Australian Masters told the story. With Woods on board in 2009-2010 the fairways were packed at the Masters, this year the crowds were down significantly. It is reminiscent of the South Australian Open in the late 80's that I attended three years in a row. The first two with Norman playing, you couldn't move but the third year without him and hardly anyone turned up by comparison. Luke Donald was the story of the year winning the money list in Europe and the US but he didn't ignite Melbourne crowds interest like Woods and Norman before him did.. The majors went to South Africa's Charl Schwartzel, Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke and Keegan Bradley from the US. McIllroy looks to be a superstar in the making but that is yet to happen. Phil Mickelson and Lee Westwood are probably the biggest names behind Woods but no cigar for either in the majors. Next year though, will be huge. Woods will win another major, probably the US Masters in April. In September the Ryder Cup will be the biggest golf event the world has ever seen. Jason Day is the man that most Australians will be pinning their hopes on in the majors with Adam Scott and his publicity shy caddie Steve Williams next in most peoples thinking. Westwood has to win a major soon but McIlroy will become the world number one if he wins his second major. It has been a great year in world golf this year but 2012 will be absolutely wicked.
2011 GOLF IN SUNRAYSIA
2011 was a year fluctuations in Sunraysia Golf. In years to come it may be looked back on as the year that the strong got stronger and the less strong started to wonder if it was really just getting too hard. In every sports club it is usually found that week to week tasks are left to too few. It is even harder in a golf club that opens its doors 52 week of the year compared to other sports that operate in only winter or summer. Clearly, Sunraysia has a golfing population and visitor influx that could comfortably be accommodated by four golf clubs at most. Our district has seven golf clubs, in this day and age it is just not possible to service, renovate and develop all the facilities that each golf club has with the amount of funds each club requires. It is part of the reason why many good quality people are dropping out of golf and off committees. On the playing side our Country Week men's and ladies teams did well again this year. The big weakness in both teams going into the immediate future is the lack of good quality juniors coming through. Young girls are hard to find on a Sunraysia golf course and the boys are at an all time low. Junior programs at the beginner level are in place at several clubs, they should start to show results by 2013 if those juniors continue in the game. There are so many other sports that are played in thirty minutes to an hour that are getting the kids attention rather than golf. It is something that all clubs really need to address. The Sunraysia District Golf Association must take some responsibility but at the end of the day the SDGA is made up of club delegates, so if it doesn't happen at home it is difficult to see how it will happen at District level. The SDGA also must continue to develop the relationship with the Broken Hill Golf Club. Broken Hill's addition to the SDGA was met with much enthusiasm and anticipation initally but that has waned over the last 18 months. It is not easy having a member club so far away but that really should be used as a positive and open up all kinds of opportunities. Greg Rhodes at 52 years of age continues to be Sunraysia's number one golfer followed by Cameron Stewart. With eleven days left in 2011 Stewart is currently on a +2 handicap whilst Rhodes is on +1. Red cliffs Tim Walker was the outstanding junior player this year followed by Ryan Laird. Riverside Golf Club are edging back to the top of the district golf ladder and Robinvale and Red Cliffs have overcome all sorts of obstacles in achieving terrific results with their golf courses. Eighteen months ago there wasn't a lot of grass on many golf courses, now getting them mown every week is the challenge that faces our green keepers. Coomealla Golf Club will replace four more greens early in the new year making it nine down with nine to go. Mildura Golf Club Resort will also begin restructuring their golf course and enter an exciting time for the club and its members. The final of the Sunraysia District Golf Association Summer Pennant was cancelled on Sunday due to course closure at all district golf courses. An SDGA official announcement regarding the final will be made at a later date.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
There was no competition golf on Sunday due to the wet, wet, wet but the scores around Sunraysia last Wednesday and Saturday were blistering hot. Seb Raiti and Mick Miller had eight better than handicap at Riverside Golf Club as did Corey Fitzpatrick and David Watts at Mildura Golf club Resort. Wayne Dahmes had a cracking nine shots better than his mark at Mildura but last Wednesday at Riverside Ray Cottle had a net 60. Twelve shots better than handicap wins Ray, not only the wrath of the handicapper but four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's pettiest golf holes as the last winner for 2011 of the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week. Ray must collect his prize from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura by Friday.
To all golfers and readers of the 19th hole, thankyou for your support, have a very happy Christmas and a safe healthy New Year
Good golfing to all.

14/12/11

RIVERSIDE RED HOT SUMMER PENNANT FAVOURITES
Riverside Golf Club will start red hot favourites in the 2011 Sunraysia District Golf Association Summer Pennant final at Red Cliffs Golf Club. Riverside have had little trouble cruising through to the final after knocking off the well fancied Robinvale Golf Club 4/1 last Sunday at Coomealla. Top performers for the green and gold this season are Gordon and Gannon Bettess and Matt Holland. The remaining two players in their grand final line-up will be between Darren Mannix, Greg McCubbin, Andrew Hill and Kelvin Wilson. Coomealla had a tougher semi final against Wentworth with two matches going to the 18th hole. John Denman and son in law Paul White have been strong contributors for the NSW based combination as has Hamish Glasgow. The remaining two players up for selection on Sunday will come from Jason Hartley, Mark Woodhouse and Tim Knight. Red Cliffs provides a great test for matchplay golf with lots of risk/reward holes including five par 3's and five par 5's. The Bettess's and Mannix have been past members at Red cliffs and have played there on many occasions giving them an advantage over whoever they play. Riverside have looked the stronger combination and should win comfortably.
CROWN LAGER SOCIAL GOLF CLUB
Casual golfers and non-club members around the country will now be able to obtain a recognised casual handicap and access some of the best courses in the country thanks to the Crown Lager Social Golf Club. The program launched on Monday with a stellar line up of high profile golf enthusiasts challenging each other on a putting green set up on top of the MCG scoreboard. Helping to tee off the launch of the program at the top of the MCG were Australian golfer Stuart Appleby, Andy Lee (TV and Radio celebrity); Brendon Goddard (AFL Footballer); Steve Johnson ( AFL Footballer); Sharelle McMahon (Australian Netballer); Phil Waugh (Former Australian Rugby Union Wallabies Captain); and Ian Curley (Head Chef at The European). The group braved the heights to show off their skills on the sky high putting green and for their efforts became the first members of the Crown Lager Social Golf Club. The Crown Lager Social Golf Club is a program developed by Golf Australia in partnership with Crown Lager and is Australia?s newest and most innovative casual golfer program. The aim of the program is to encourage more people to take up golf, provide a pathway to play golf more frequently and be more engaged with the game in the hope that they stay in the sport in the long term.Crown Lager Social Golf Club is an online program and once members play three rounds of nine to 18 holes and enter their results, they?ll receive a Golf Australia Casual Handicap (calculated by Golf Australia?s official handicap software provider, GOLF Link) to use in social competitions. This handicap is automatically updated when members enter more results. Golf Australia CEO, Stephen Pitt, said the new program was designed to increase participation and maintain interest among social players over the long-term. ?The Crown Lager Social Golf Club is a fantastic new program which Golf Australia is very proud to present in partnership with Crown Lager,? Pitt said. ?Australia has nearly 700,000 casual players on courses each year. We can now offer these players a program that ensures golf is more fun, has a competitive edge and keeps them involved in the game in the future. We welcome Stuart Appleby as lead ambassador in the program and all our ambassadors from the worlds of sport, food and entertainment." There are several social golf clubs already in Sunraysia the most notable being the House of Golf Social Golf Club organised and run from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Garth Doherty. Nine hole social golf is played every second Sunday morning beginning at 9am and rotates between Riverside, Red Cliffs and Merbein Golf Clubs. Phone 50 229440 for more information.
OGILVY OR SENDEN IN THE AUSTRALIAN MASTERS?
It has been an enormous year in world golf. Australian golf took a turn for the better one month ago with the Australian Open, Presidents Cup and Australian PGA tournaments all being huge successes. Many of the worlds best players have been here recently including Tiger Woods who is still the biggest name in golf and Greg Norman still commands much attention, not only in Australia but wherever he goes. This week one of Australia's best golf courses, Victoria Golf Club hosts the 2011 Australian Masters. This tournament was enormous during the "Norman" years when he played and beat the worlds best including Nick Faldo and many others. All of the big names lined up in the Australian Masters over the years and so it is the case again this year. Luke Donald will create lots of interest, he is not a long hitter but every aspect of his game is precise. Ian Poulter will bring more to the table than his unique fashion sense and Italian teenager Matteo Manassero is fast becoming Italy's number one pin up boy. Throw in 2010 champion Stuart Appleby and Presidents Cup feuding duo Robert Allenby and Geoff Ogilvy and it should be a really watchable event. Admittedly Tiger Woods played in 2009-2010 but Luke Donald is currently the world number one and is playing extremely well as evidenced in Dubai last week. Greg Chalmers will be trying to emulate Robert Allenby's feat of winning the triple crown of all three Australian majors this week after winning the Australian Open and Australian PGA. It would be fantastic if he could pull it off but Ogilvy is definitely the man to beat this year. Victoria Golf Club is his old stamping ground and he is ready to dominate in another big Australian event. Next choice would be John Senden who is another quiet achiever but big time tournament performer. Two other local boys that should give a good account of themselves are last years runner up Daniel Gaunt and Marcus Fraser who is a past dual winner of Mildura Golf Weeks Murray Valley Championship in 1999-2000.
LUKE DONALD - THE QUIET SUPERSTAR OF WORLD GOLF
England's Luke Donald set a new benchmark in world golf on Sunday in Dubai when he became the first golfer to ever top both money lists in Europe and the US. Donald took over the mantle of world number one 28 weeks ago and looks assured of keeping that ranking for quite some time. This is an outstanding achievement for the quietly spoken five foot nine golfer who uses his spare time to paint and draw and expand his reputation as a competent artist. In an era where many top line sportsmen are seen as fast car enthusiasts or deep sea fishermen on their own luxury boats, Donald is a rarity as he and his wife spend their time collecting contemporary art. Although he is yet to win a Major, Donald has won six times in Europe and four times on the US PGA Tour, racking up over $41 million since his professional debut in 2001. This week he will be contesting his first Australian Masters Championship at the Victoria Golf Club. It is an interesting aside that both Donald and Greg Chalmers who recently won the Australian Open/PGA double are quiet unassuming achievers unlike golfers of the ilk of Tiger Woods, Greg Norman and even Seve Ballesteros who have all been flamboyant headline attracting personalities.
CHRISTMAS, FAMILY AND GOLF GO TOGETHER
Christmas is a great time of the year for families and people getting together to enjoy one another's company and to reflect and be grateful for what they have. Golfers in Sunraysia have a great array of choices to play golf and socialise afterwards in the clubhouse. Members at Mildura Golf Club Resort can take that celebrating one step further by having a relaxing swim after a round of golf. There is no prettier sight than looking out the clubhouse window at Riverside's lovely 18th hole or sitting around in the BBQ areas of Coomealla and Red Cliffs Golf Clubs. Sometimes as golfers we tend to take things for granted but if you take the time to show your family and friends the facilities and comforts of your golf club that you enjoy weekly it might just dawn on you how lucky we all are. Even if our golf scores are riddled with bad luck stories!
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Outstanding rounds at Wentworth and Riverside dominated in the quest for this weeks Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week. Four players bettered their handicaps by seven shots including Sue Johns at Red Cliffs and Ash Robinson, Michael Nott and Mick Osborne at Riverside. Former Mildura golfer Daniel Chandler turned up at Riverside and breezed around the course for a quick 47 points which would win most weeks. Out at Wentworth however, Steve Lyall blitzed the Wentworth circuit with a staggering 49 stableford points. Butch Cassidy had nothing on this bandit! Steve wins four laminated placemats of some of Sunraysia's best golf holes, including the 18th at Wentworth, complete with the old gaol in the background. This prize must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with any golfing information on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

8/12/11

Coomealla's Ryan Laird and Red Cliffs Tim Walker will contest the Port Phillip Amateur this weekend at Commonwealth Golf Club and Kingston Heath Golf Club. After 36 holes at Commonwealth on Saturday the top 72 players will play a further 36 holes at Kingston Heath on Sunday. The top 32 players will then go into matchplay mode in the 2011 Victorian Amateur Championship which will conclude with the final on Wednesday. Former district champion Jake Laubsch will also be contesting the event. Laubsch now plays in Adelaide at Grange Golf Club.

7/12/11

54 HOLE GOLFING ODYSSEY
Mildura golfer Gary Fumberger decided that rather than sign up for "Movember", he would team up with seven mates to raise their own awareness and funds for prostrate cancer. Gary put a small committee together and enlisted the help of Marcus Guthrie, Paul Avery, David Murray, Bob Bettess, Brendan Marr, Mathew Morrison and Ashley Davis to play 54 holes of golf in the one day. The three rounds were at Red Cliffs Golf Club beginning at 6 am, followed by Riverside Golf Club and finally finishing the 54th hole at Mildura Golf Club Resort at 7-15 pm. That is a huge effort, even more so for Guthrie, Murray, Avery and Bettess who walked all 54 holes! The other boys both walked and carted. By the last round the weather was really warming up and so was the standard of golf with David Murray birding four holes and parring eleven. Two and a half thousand dollars was raised on the day with the support of Mildura and Riverside members and each of the eight players actually kicking $50 each. Next year Gary is hoping to take the idea further and get more people involved. It really could be a huge day at each golf club in the district and a target of more than $10,000 would be very achievable. Gary Fumberger and his mates deserve a big pat on the back for a terrific effort for a great cause. If you would like to be involved either as a player, helper or donor give Gary a call.
RIVERSIDE FAVOURITES IN SUMMER PENNANT FINALS
Wentworth Golf Club hosted summer pennant on Sunday and the results were mostly predictable with wins by Riverside, Wentworth, Mildura and Coomealla. The biggest surprise was Coomealla's 4/1 defeat of Robinvale who only had four players on the day. Mildura just got in by the skin of their teeth from a gallant Ouyen with some really close matches. Red Cliffs gave pennant favourites Riverside a scare in another close encounter and Wentworth upended 2010 pennant holders Merbein's run to another finals series. There were two standout matches in this contest. Merbein's Aaron Blake lost on the 18th hole to former Wentworth club champion Nathan Gard whose handicap has ballooned out to 12 from 4 in the last twelve months. Twelve year old Matt Bottomly won at the 21st hole over 68 year old Len Lawlor in his first senior pennant match. Matt's parents Darren who has been one of Wentworth's best golfers in the last ten years and mother Lee who is fast becoming a very good ladies golfer were watching on proudly. This is just another example of how it doesn't matter how young or old, tall or short you are, golf is a great sport for everyone. Semi finals this week are at Coomealla where Riverside should account for Robinvale and Wentworth with their longer handicappers should overcome the home team.
FORMER LOCAL GOLF STARS BACK IN ACTION
In the club results last week it was interesting to see two former top local golfers have turned out after extended breaks from golf. Jason Zambelli is back playing at Coomealla and Riverside. Zambelli is arguably the best left handed golfer the district has produced other than Red Cliffs Andrew Keogh. After two years doing an apprenticeship at Kew Golf Club in Melbourne he came back to Sunraysia in 1995 and won the last Sunraysia Matchplay Championship at Riverside in 1997 against Robert Marlais. He hasn't played golf in the last few years concentrating on his young family and his business. Robert Pallot won the Mildura Golf Club Resort's A grade competition on Saturday with a 71 off the stick. Pallot has won most of the districts Open's and the 1996 Sunraysia Matchplay Championship. He has the best swing by an amateur golfer that I have seen in Sunraysia in the last 30 years. As amateurs go he produced some great golf shots and is an artist at work in sand bunkers. It will be interesting to see how much golf he continues to play and whether he has mellowed over the years to belie his old nickname of "fiery". It really is great to see both these top class golfers back playing club golf.
2012 TRI-STATE MASTERS SUNRAYSIA'S MOST EVER LUCURATIVE AMATEUR TOURNAMENT
The 20th anniversary Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters is six months away but it has been an exciting six months since the 19th tournament in May. With the changes in the amateur status rules beginning on January 1st 2012, hole in one prizes of any value can be awarded to club golfers without affecting their amateur status. In the past if you won $1000 for a hole in one you could lose your amateur status for up to three years. In next years Tri-State Masters $100,000 worth of prizes will be up for grabs as well as $50,000 worth of door prizes and trophies will be given away. The Mildura Rural City Council agreed that this is a fantastic ititative and awarded the tournament a $5000 grant for the first time in 20 years. The tournament organisers then matched that amount and have just began the equivalent to a $15,000 advertising campaign to attract a full field for next years tournament. All involved are working feverishly to make the 20th Tri-State masters the most memorable golf tournament ever held in Sunraysia. Next week in the 19th hole full details of the prizes, sponsors, participating clubs and social events will be announced. Stand by.
THE PRANCING TIGER IS BACK
It was only a matter of time when Tiger Woods would return to great for. Anyone who witnessed his play on the last day of the Presidents Cup would surely have realised that the Tiger was back. Next year it is a lay down misere that he will win at least one more major. Probably the US Masters in April at Augusta will be where he gets back onto the chase for Jack Nicklause's record of 18 majors. Woods has 14 and many were saying that he was finished as a top golfer after his off course problems and knee injuries but he has that magic quality of being able to produce the right shots when it counts. It is great for golf when he is firing. On Sunday he birdied the last two holes of his tournament to win by a solitary from playing partner Zack Johnson and the crowd around the 18th went off like fire crackers. Yep, he's back alright.
LUKE DONALD LEADS THE RACE TO DUBAI
The final event on the European Tour will be played in Dubai from Thursday and will culminate the seasons race to Dubai. England's Luke Donald has already won the money list in the US and with 3,856,394 euros is more than 800,000 Euros in front of Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy. It looks as though Donald will be the first player to win on the worlds two main golf tours. McIlroy kept his chances alive by winning the Hong Kong Open at the weekend after storming home in the last round. England's Lee Westwood chose to defend his Nedbank Challenge championship in South Africa instead of playing in Hong Kong. It proved to be a great decision as he broke the course record on Saturday with an almost perfect round of 62 which set him up to collect the $1.25 million US. All of the top European players will be contending this week including Germany's Martin Kaymer, South Africa's Charl Schwartzel, Denmark's Anders Hansen and Spain's Sergio Garcia. Northern Ireland's two major winners Graeme McDowell and Darren Clarke will also feature in the end of the tournament on Sunday. The Race TO Dubai has gone past the US FedEx cup in the last two years, just as the Europeans have dominated the Ryder Cup over the Americans in recent clashes. Luke Donald has won three times on the European Tour this year and McILroy and Westwood are in top form but Martin Kaymer and Ian Poulter are the men to watch this week in Dubai.
Sunraysia Golf Tours - Round of the Week
Sunraysia scored the trifecta last week once again, great golf courses, great weather and great scores. Six players bettered their handicaps by five shots including: John Gray at Coomealla, Rob Pallot, Dennis Knight and Abe Nemes at Mildura, Greg Butcher and Richard Tankard at Riverside. Riverside has been giving up some great scores recently with the top three performances coming from there including Fiona Turlan and Cliff Tomlinson who both had 42 points. The star this week to take home the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week is long time magpie supporter Tony Scullino who had 77/65. Tony wins four laminated placemats of some of the best golf holes in Sunraysia painted by artist Mick Andrich which must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura by Friday.
Contact me on email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

30/11/11

RYAN LAIRD TOP COUNTRY VICTORIAN JUNIOR
Coomealla junior Ryan Laird was the top performer in the Division One Victorian Country Regions Championship at Heathcote Golf Club at the weekend. On Saturday he struggled on the tricky greens returning an eleven over par 82. On Sunday he attacked the course with the knowledge of where to hit his drives and from which side of the fairways to attack the pins. The result was a superb three under par 68. This was enough to secure the best 36 hole score in the tournament by one stroke. Laird has worked extremely hard on his skills over the past couple of years and performed very well at Melbourne Country Week in the senior division one sections in 2010-2011. 2012 could be the year when he stamps his mark on Sunraysia golf and wins some of the districts top events. Shay Toma was the next best performer for Sunraysia shooting a creditable 80-81. Toma has been playing great golf in recent weeks, a continuance of his recent form should see him pressing for Country Week selection next year. Unfortunately Sunraysia drops back to division two next year as only six juniors were available for the championship. A minimum of seven players are required for the teams section of the tournament. The Victorian Golf Association moved the championship from August to November, subsequently, many of our juniors are playing district cricket and unable to take the weekend off cricket. After being well stocked with top juniors last year Sunraysia is back to the drawing board with only a few players emerging as elite contenders. It really is up to the Sunraysia District Golf Association to call a meeting with all of the clubs to make plans as how to attract juniors to golf. The Sunraysia Sports Academy is beginning to make noises again about golf being included in its program. That is great news if it is done properly. Initially what the Academy offered was too expensive for many families, was poor value for what they received in return and targeted the elite players. A three tiered program would be the best format including:beginners, intermediate and elite juniors. This would give the kids a pathway to becoming top golfers. For once, the clubs must join together to achieve this for our juniors, our golf association and our clubs. Have a look around your club, you won't find many juniors and juniors are the future of the club.
RIVERSIDE AND ROBINVALE TEAMS TO BEAT IN SUMMER PENNANT
Merbein Golf Club played host to Summer Pennant players from Wentworth to Ouyen on Sunday. The boys were fresh from watching the great matchplay in the Presidents Cup the week before and keen to emulate the skills of the worlds best. Merbein was in great condition. A new mower that is bigger than Texas has been working a treat on the lush Merbein fairways. Phil Lawn lined up for Wentworth fresh off his new handicap of scratch. Up came his Riverside opponent Matt Holland who played off 32! Holland had won his first match in pennant the previous week at Robinvale and had his dad Peter on the bag as his caddie to help with advice and strategy. The match was all square after nine holes but as much as Lawn tried he couldn't keep giving two shots on most of the holes and finally succumbed 3/2. This is the beauty of summer pennant, anyone with a registered handicap can play and compete and really learn about the nuances of golf. Usually if you play to your handicap you will win or go very close to winning. There were two other matches noteworthy for their length and endurance. Coomealla's Hamish Glasgow overcame Ouyen's Roger Anderson on the 22nd hole. Glasgow, originally from Scotland moved to Adelaide in 1974, after 20 years he then went to Queensland, then Tasmania and finally Mildura five years ago. "I moved here to play golf at Coomealla after having played here many times during my time in Adelaide" he said yesterday. Red Cliffs Rohan Hiller, former Merbein footballer took Merbein skipper Rod Poole to the 20th before winning his match. Results of round two saw victories by Merbein,Riverside, Coomealla and Robinvale. With only one round to go at Wentworth this Sunday, six clubs are still in with a chance of contesting the finals the following week. Riverside and Robinvale are virtually assured of qualifying after winning their first two matches unless either of them collapses this week. Wentworth, Merbein, Coomealla and Mildura must win this week to have any chance of making the finals. Wentworth's golf course will be a test of patience and control as it is not in its best ever condition but smart golf will win the day.
CAMERON STEWART + TWO HANDICAP
Cameron Stewart played a superior round of golf at Coomealla Golf Club on Saturday. Four under par is the sort of golf we saw in the Australian PGA at Coolum at the weekend by the worlds very best golfers. Stewart is a quiet unobtrusive fellow who goes about his golf without any fanfare. The Stewart family are not known for their flamboyance or noise in any way. Cameron has been very successful in all forms of golf winning local Open tournaments and performing well in Melbourne at Country Week and in big tournaments like Mildura Golf Week. It has been well chronicled how close he has come to winning the Mildura and Coomealla club championships without any luck so far. On Saturday though, he reached a peak that very few ever reach when his handicap went to plus two. Greg Rhodes is also off plus two but Stewart is on +1.7 just point one ahead of Rhodes on +1.6. It will be most interesting to see who finishes on the lower or in their case higher handicap at the end of the year.
CHALMERS ON A ROLL IN AUSTRALIAN GOLF
In 1998 a few of us from Riverside went over to Royal Adelaide to have a look at Riverside's new golf professional Marty Walsh in the Australian Open. Walsh missed the cut by one shot but we stayed on to watch the last 36 holes, hoping that Stuart Appleby would win. Appleby's wife Renay had been killed in a bizarre car accident earlier in the year and naturally most people were behind Appleby in his quest for his first Australian Open title. It wasn't to be as he came in second behind a bloke who I immediately recognised as our Australian version of Mr Bean. Left handed Greg Chalmers announced himself as a player to watch when he became the only West Australian to ever win the Australian Open. At the time Chalmers shed a tear as he shook Appleby's hand saying that "He felt like a villain", as he knew everyone wanted Appleby to win. Since that tournament Chalmers has had moderate success, until the last few weeks when he won the Australian Open for the second time and now the PGA at Coolum on Sunday when he unobtrusively came from the clouds. Everyone thought that either Bubba Watson, KIM Kyung-tae, Robert Allenby, Aaron Baddeley or Marcus Fraser would emerge victorious but it was the quiet left hander. Chalmers comes across as a genuinely nice bloke and now his world ranking has dropped more than 40 places to 63rd, he will contest all of the worlds top tournaments in 2012. Chalmers has now changed his mind and will play in the Australian Masters at Victoria Golf Club from December 15-18. He will be trying to equal Robert Allenby as the only player to win Australia's triple crown in the one year. It won't be easy though, as he will be up against world number one Luke Donald, Ian Poulter, Matteo Manassero and local champions Geoff Ogilvy and Stuart Appleby. It has been a wonderful three week period in Australian golf, topped off by the best ever PGA championship last week. There were many highlights, Chalmers and John Senden's holes in one on days one and two. British Open champion Darren Clarke and the famous claret jug. All of the top Aussies playing and joining in the off course fun. Big hitting Bubba Watson hitting a par 5 with driver, 9 iron and pretty boy Ricky Fowler wowing the female followers. Greg Norman playing like he did fifteen years ago. The PGA had it all, maybe just maybe, the Australian Masters will add the cream on the cake for a sensational year in golf.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Red hot scores were the order of the week with the A graders coming to the fore in the Sunraysia Golf Tours - Round of the Week. At Coomealla Cameron Stewart recorded a 68 of the stick, which is fantastic golf. Brett Thurman was Coomy's best handicap score for the week with 43 points. At Riverside Dave Woolcock came in with a 70 off the stick and a par score of +6. Woolcock and Graeme Southwell (66) can count themselves unlucky as 66's were two behind club mate Chris Thomas. Thomas had a best ever score of 66 off the stick for a par score of +8. It is doubtful that he will ever better that score. Interestingly though, his handicap didn't alter and he remains on 3. To make the round even more memorable Chris wins the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week and four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's beautiful golf courses, including the picture perfect par three seventh hole at Riverside Golf Club. Chris can pick up his prize from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

23/11/11

SUMMER PENNANT
The 2011 SDGA Summer Pennant began at Robinvale Golf Club without the pomp and pageantry of the Presidents Cup but with just as much fervour by the combatants. The message coming back from Robinvale is that the golf course is in immaculate condition. Well worth a visit for any local golfers. The competition will be played in two divisions again this year with three initial rounds. Semi finals will then be contested between the top team of one division against the second team in the other division with the two winners then playing off in the final. 2010 pennant holders Merbein were put right back in their box by a resurgent Riverside outfit who dished out a 4/1 thumping. Merbein's Phil (Tosh) Matotek was on track for his eighth win in a row in pennant this year but was knocked off his perch by Darren (Oscar) Mannix on the 18th. Mildura overcame Coomealla 3/2 after Bob Bettess scraped home against John Denman at the 19th hole. Robinvale were too good for Ouyen 4/1 and will be looking to go one better than their second placing last year. Red Cliffs forfeited to Wentworth after a mix up at the club. It is hoped that Red Cliffs Golf Club, who are a proud club can organize a team for the second round at Merbein Golf Club on Sunday.
VICTORIAN JUNIOR REGIONS CHAMPIONSHIP
Sunraysia's Junior Country Regions representative team heads off to Heathcote this weekend for the 2011 Victorian Country Regions Championship. Last year our lads won division two, comfortably finishing top of the ladder in both the scratch and handicap sections. The championship was held in early August last year in almost snow like conditions. As a result of those conditions the championship was moved back to this weekend this year and subsequently six of last years team are either too old having turned 18 in recent months or unavailable. Those missing this year are Jake Laubsch, Tim Walker, Tyler Verbeek,Luke Stanbrook, David Filippi, and Jason Tassone. The team this year is district junior champion Ryan Laird, Shay Toma, Dom Vartulli, Tom Holmes, Josef Moisidis, Harry Dawbin and Abraham Nemes. The other associations in division one include Geelong, West Gippsland, North Eastern, Dalhousie, Goulburn Valley and Peninsula. These associations are the heavyweights of Victorian country golf and our boys will be on a sharp learning curve which will provide great experience for future competitions. Shay Toma has been in crackerjack form lately after parring the course at Mildura on Saturday then backing up with a 73 on Sunday. Josef Moisidis played really well in the Coomealla Club championships and Ryan Laird could well be the standout performer of the championship.
PRESIDENTS CUP
The Presidents Cup was fantastic, even though our boys didn't win the whole show was compelling viewing for all golf enthusiasts. The Americans were too good in the four balls where they get more opportunity to play that format year in year out in the Ryder Cup against Europe. Whilst the Presidents Cup is the biggest golf event that Australia has seen, it is nowhere near the magnitude of the Ryder Cup. This has only been the case in the last dozen years when Europe have matched and beaten the US more times than they have lost. Before that, the US had annihilated the Poms and it was virtually no contest. Now Europe are the king pins of world golf and the US are the underdogs in that contest. Next year the Ryder Cup will be played in the US at Medinah Country Club, Bloomingdale Illinois. You can multiply the hype and hysteria of the Presidents Cup by five times with how big the Ryder Cup will be next year. If I could choose any golf event in the world to go to it would be the Ryder Cup. In 2016 golf will become an official Olympic sport and it will be interesting to see how that works. At present there is a World Cup played bi-annually between all the top golfing nations but only a few nations send their very best two players to represent them, so is not taken as seriously as perhaps the Olympics will be. The 2011 World Cup will be played at the Mission Hills golf complex in China this weekend. The 2013 Presidents Cup will be played at Jack Niklaus'e course Muirfield Village in his home town of Dublin Ohio. Hopefully whoever is our next Presidents Cup captain will show the team some footage of the Ryder Cup foursomes contests then play some practice matches. The foursomes is where we lost the cup, simple as that. All in all though, it was a great advertisement for Melbourne, Royal Melbourne, Australian golf fans and the wonderful game of golf.
AUSTRALIAN PGA
After the euphoria of the Presidents Cup at the weekend all eyes will be fixed on Coolum for the Australian PGA Championship. It is probably the best field ever assembled for this championship which was won last year by Peter Senior. International golfers include 2011 British Open champion Darren Clarke, Bubba Watson, Y E Yang and Ricky Fowler. Throw in Greg Norman, Jason Day, Adam Scott, Geoff Ogilvy, John Senden, Aaron Baddeley and former multiple winners Robert Allenby and Peter Lonard and it is a world class field. This championship is also an excellent opportunity for the players to wind down and have a bit of fun at the end of a long season. One of the highlights of the weekend will be a Monster Ball long drive competition on Saturday night after the third round. A 365 metre hole will be used to see who hits it the furtherest. I'm tipping American Bubba Watson will start favourite, if he is still around. Stuart Appleby might give him a run for his money but irrespective of who wins it is a great initiative by the PGA.
LADIES AUSTRALIAN OPEN
Great news for ladies golf with the Australian Open at Royal Melbourne Golf Club on Feb 9-12 being included as an official tournament on the US LPGA tour next year. The coverage of the Royal Melbourne course around the world at the weekend during the Presidents Cup is sure to have interested and attract most of the best lady professionals in world golf. Only three Australians have won our Open in the last 40 years including Jan Stephenson, Jane Crafter and Karrie Webb. Queenslander Webb made her professional debut in this tournament in 1994 and has since won the title four times. World number one, Taiwan's Yani Tseng will be aiming for her third title in a row, she is fast becoming one of the greats in ladies golf. American super girl Lexi Thompson who is only 16 will make her first appearance outside of the US and is sure to be a crowd favourite. It will be interesting to see if the fanatics are on course to sing a few songs to the girls. With some of the material available it would be hilarious.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Sunraysia's good weather combined with great course conditions were significant factors in the great competition for this weeks Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week. Five players bettered their handicaps by eight strokes including Merbein's Frank Zambito and Graeme Kerr, Deb Hassell at Red Cliffs, Corey Fitzpatrick at Mildura and James Scherger at Riverside. The best round came from Riverside's George Mason who had 47 points, eleven shots better than his handicap! George wins four laminated placemats of Sunraysia golf holes which must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions on Email at golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

16/11/11

RHODES BY ONE AT COOMEALLA
Greg Rhodes won the 2011 Coomealla Golf Club championship on Sunday by the barest of margins, one shot. On Saturday morning going into the third round, Rhodes was two strokes ahead of 2010 runner up Cameron Stewart who he had beaten by fourteen strokes last year. On Saturday morning though, Rhodes played poorly shooting a 76. Stewart was quick to make his move in the afternoon returning a par round of 72, putting him two strokes ahead of the champion. Questions have been raised by some local golfing pundits as to whether Rhodes reacts as well under the pump as he does way out in front. Yet again his answer was emphatic as he played percentage golf to record another gutsy victory shooting an even par 72. Sunraysia's top two players over the last three years were locked together with five holes to go after Rhodes pegged Stewart back, only to see the Mildura man birdie the par 5 thirteenth. Rhodes went one up with a par on fourteen, two up with another par on 16 and maintained that advantage until the par 3 eighteenth. The 18th green is still quite new and is rock hard. With the pin set hard back left, Rhodes uncharacteristically attacked it, ending up in the back bunker. This left the door ajar for Stewart who was spot on for length but left himself a thirty foot putt from the right. Rhodes blasted out to ten feet and waited for Stewart to putt. The ball was on line but pulled up 8 inches short. This left Rhodes two putts to win by one shot. Which he did. For Rhodes, he did what he always does, played percentage golf and got most of the putts that he had to get. A par round was always going to be a hard number to match on the last day of a championship at Coomealla. As for Cameron Stewart, he keeps edging closer. Greg Rhodes had this to say yesterday, " I was really pleased to win the championship. Cameron played well but a couple of mistakes cost him in the last few holes. I really don't think he receives the recognition that he should. He is a very underestimated golfer and a true plus one marker". There is no doubt that the majority of local golfing people are hoping that Cameron's day will come sooner rather than later. Understandably he feels the weight of that pressure of expectation and genuine support. If Greg Rhodes wasn't around he would probably have won a string of tournaments. But Rhodes is around and until someone can out think him as well as out play him down the stretch, he will remain Sunraysia's king of golf. The two youngsters who made up the last group, Jake Laubsch and Tim Walker were given a lesson on how to act on a golf course by the Rhodes and Stewart. Both lads have unquestionable talent but golf is a tough game and when you are up against the best it tests all aspects of your game and personality. Rhodes is a pleasure to watch and Stewart is very calm and measured under pressure. Hopefully both lads will benefit from the example of sportsmanship and etiquette displayed by Sunraysia's top two golfers.
SDGA SUMMER PENNANT HITS OFF
The Sunraysia District Golf Association 2011 Summer Pennant season hits off at Robinvale on Sunday. Robinvale had a real crack at Summer Pennant last year, eventually going down to Merbein in the final. Playing at home this week they have the opportunity to get off to another flying start. Merbein have been the top dogs in this competition for a number of years and place more emphasis on a successful outcome than any other club. The bigger clubs like Coomealla and Mildura don't seem as enthusiastic towards it and are not as dominant as they possibly could and should be. Riverside and Red Cliffs usually are around the mark and Wentworth can be the surprise packet. Ouyen are at a disadvantage simply because of their lack of practice on grass greens and their handicaps are probably a bit less than they would be on local courses. That said, Ouyen are terrific competitors and Summer Pennant wouldn't be the same without them. It would be terrific if the SDGA included Ouyen to host a round of the competition. That would even the score a little bit and reward Ouyen for their loyal support of Summer Pennant for the last 30 years. Week two sees play move to Merbein followed by Wentworth and Coomealla. Red Cliffs will host the final on December 18. Contact your club if you are interesting in representing your club. Watch the Presidents Cup tomorrow through Sunday and you will see how head to head matchplay golf is the best golf of all.
ALL THE PRESIDENTS MEN
It has been thirteen years since we watched and cheered Peter Thomson's men at Royal Melbourne in the Presidents Cup. Greg Norman played Tiger Woods in the last singles match. Woods won, but by then the Internationals had already clinched the Cup. At the time there was such a build up. Norman was still our best player but his days were numbered and Woods was just becoming the enormous superstar he has become today. It was hot, mid December and the Yanks melted. Royal Melbourne is one of the few courses in the world where they integrate holes from two courses to make up a "composite" course. Twelve holes from the west course and six holes from the east course. Only very few extremely fortunate folk get to play the composite course. Many Royal Melbourne members haven't experienced the composite course but it is what is used for all the big tournaments such as the Australian Open. Fast forward to tomorrow and the biggest golf event this country has ever seen will put golf back on the front pages of every major newspaper in the nation. So many sub plots are concealed under the euphoria of the overall tournament. How will Woods perform under the ultimate pressure that the Internationals and Australian crowd are sure to place him under? Will Stricker be fit after nursing a "dead arm" for the last month? Will the Americans be able to master the fastest greens outside of Augusta in the world? Will the dream match up of Woods versus Scott/Williams eventuate? Can our Aussie boys lift for the occasion? Ogilvy, Baddeley and Allenby are all Melbourne boys and love Royal Melbourne, whilst Adam Scott and Jason Day are our best performers this year. Can Tiger's former caddie Steve Williams keep his big mouth shut for the week? Can Greg Norman outsmart Freddie Couples? The inaugural contest in this tournament was played in the US in 1994 and of the current teams only Robert Allenby and Phil Mickelson have survived the test of time. Mickelson has scored 20 points which is the most by an American. This week he was voted into the Hall of Fame in America. South Africa's Ernie Els has won 16 times, the most for the Internationals. Tomorrow there will be six foursomes matches where two man teams hit alternate shots using one ball for each team. On Friday six 4Ball Best Ball matches will be contested where the best individual score by the two man teams will win each hole. On Saturday there will be five 4somes matches in the morning and five 4BBB matches in the afternoon. On Sunday there will be twelve individual matchplay contests. Each win is worth one point. A drawn match is worth a half a point to each team. All up there will be 34 contests so the team that finishes with 17.5 points or better will be the victorious team for 2011. The International Team includes Jason Day, Adam Scott, Geoff Ogilvy, Aaron Baddeley and Robert Allenby Australia. Ernie Els, Retief Goosen and Charl Schwartzel South Africa. Ryo Ishikawa Japan and K J Choi, Y E Yang and Kyung-tae Kim Korea. The US will be represented by Matt Kuchar, Steve Stricker, Dustin Johnson, Webb Simpson, Nick Watney, Bubba Watson, Phil Mickelson, David Toms, Hunter Mahan, Jim Furyk, Tiger Woods and Bill Haas. If you love golf, you will love this contest between some of the worlds very best golfers.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Great golf was played all over the district last week making the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week the toughest week of the year to win, so far. No less than six players recorded scores of eight shots better than their handicaps. They included Russell Abraham Red Cliffs, Darren Mannix, Gary Metcalf Riverside, David Rossi Mildura,Ryan Teasdale Merbein and Zac McGlynn at Coomealla. The standout performer this week however, was Riverside's Darren Gray who had 9 better than handicap with 45 stableford points. Darren's practice sessions at the Sunraysia Golf Range have finally paid off and he wins four laminated placemats featuring Sunraysia's most picturesque golf holes which must be collected by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

9/11/11

RHODES VERSUS STEWART FOR COOMEALLA CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
At the halfway mark of the 2011 Coomealla Golf Club championships defending champion Greg Rhodes 71-72 is two shots ahead of Cameron Stewart who had 72-73. Rhodes hit the ball well but struggled with his putter on Sunday. If, as anticipated the greens are quicker this weekend then that could throw a curve ball into the fray as Stewart is putting really well and will be eager to at least keep up with the champion on Saturday. Round three is moving day, Rhodes can either put the championship beyond doubt or Stewart can apply the pressure and keep right on Rhodes hammer. 2009 champion Jake Laubsch struggled on Saturday returning a 78 but on Sunday he returned to the his best from with a 71. Laubsch is not out of this championship by a long shot, given that he has reeled Rhodes in on two previous occasions from four shots back in one round. Red Cliffs club champion Tim Walker is in third place after two disappointing rounds of 76. Walker hit two iron off the tee for most of the weekend to put himself in ideal position on the fairway but time and again he missed greens from close range. If he can work out his short irons and approach shots then he can go low, but nine shots is a lot to make up. And so it is a championship in three, or maybe four. Rhodes has done it all before, it will be interesting to see if the fire still burns just as bright or will it be the perenial one that almost everyone would love to see win a club championship? Will it be the lad who has climbed the mountain twice before against the king or maybe the districts best current youngster throwing caution to the wind to come from the clouds? As the Australian Open is played at the same time in Sydney and on the televisions in every clubhouse in Australia, this Coomealla championship could really be one to remember. It is already for me as I had my third hole in one on my eldest daughter Carmen's birthday on Sunday. This was a big thrill, particularly in our club championship made it a bit more special. Mind you, any hole in one is still a fluke but you take the good with the bad in golf.
RED CLIFFS TWILIGHT TEAMS COMPETITION
After thirty years in the golf caper it is refreshing when a club devises a new idea or competition. Something a bit different. Red Cliffs Golf club have come up with such an event. Every Thursday night beginning December 1 teams of four players will play a round robin of stableford matchplay. This competition is open to everyone in the district. Inital cost is $20 per team then $4 per player that plays each Thursday. Teams can nominate at least six players who can alternate each week and both men and ladies are all welcome. Similar events occur in tennis, bowls, cricket and other team games so this is another extension of the same concept. It sounds like a lot of fun and anyone can enter a team. Entries close on November 19. Email Michael Hogan on hogan.gillian.g@bigpond.com or phone AH on 50 242388.
20 TOP AUSSIES TO FIGHT OUT AUSTRALIAN OPEN
The Australian Open this week looks to be more open than ever before, maybe up to thirty players look to be good chances of winning. The Lakes Golf Club in Sydney will host it's fifth Australian Open with Jack Nicklaus in 1964 and Greg Norman in 1980, Steve Elkington in 1992 and Geoff Ogilvy last year being previous winners. Other big names to win events at the Lakes include Lee Trevin, Curtis Strange and Australian top liners Peter Senior, Craig Parry, Rodger Davis and Aaron Baddeley. In 2009 Tom Watson went within inches of winning his sixth British Open at the age of 59 at Turnberry. Maybe Peter Senior could do a Watson this week. Senior has had a great year on the US Senior Tour without winning but don't write him off. Rod Pampling knows the Lakes course better than most and would be a surprise winner but he could do it. Matt Goggin has been on the secondary US Nationwide Tour this year and has been playing well. Marc Leishman is another young player who could surprise. The list of Aussies goes on. The big names like Ogilvy, Scott, Day, Allenby, Baddeley and Senden will all have their admirerers but I think the winner will come from the secondary group of Aussies. The Americans including Tiger Woods, David Toms, Hunter Mahan, Nick Watney, Bubba Watson, Dustin Johnson and Matt Kuchar are all terrific players but really they are here for next week and this week is really just match practice. Toms and Johnson look to be their best chances although it would make great viewing if the big Bubba bursts out of the pack. Bubba Watson ia an absolute cracker, sort of a latter day Sam Snead, straight down from the mountains. The Australian Open is our biggest tournament of the year most years but the following week the Preidents Cup is going to be, well, delicous.
PRESIDENTS CUP LOOKS DELICOUS
Everything is coming to plan for the Presidents Cup at Royal Melbourne next week. Tiger has been in Melbourne doing clinics for Shane and Liz and Eddie at Lloyd Williams Capitol Golf Club for the mega rich and famous. Steve Williams has upset the applecart with a comment behind closed doors that soon became headlines all over the world. If the Aussie Open were to come down to Woods and Adam Scott it would be enormous. Lets face it, if Steve Williams opened up on his former boss all hell would break loose so don't expect too many repercussions over a throw away comment. It has just meant more attention and interest is injected into the Aussie Open and the Presidents Cup. Twelve of the Presidents Cup players are lining up in Sydney this week, if one or more of them feature in the finish it will light up the internet all over the world. Golf in Australia has been struggling for some time and the Presidents Cup can provide the impetus that Greg Norman did for the Australian golf industry twenty five years ago.
GOLFING THEME CHRISTMAS PARTY
With Christmas approaching soon most businesses are addressing the dilemma of where to have their Christmas party or get together. Last year the Sunraysia Golf Range had their Christmas party at the Irymple Bowling Club. It was a bit different, especially for the youg lads of 16 and 17 who work at the range as "ball boys". They had just as much fun as the oldies did as they tried to beat us at what looks to be an easy game. But is is not. Following on from doing something a bit different, the Sunraysia Golf Range is inviting district businesses, clubs and social clubs to consider a function at the Sunraysia Golf Range. Packages beginning at only $10 per person include golf club and ball hire for groups, meal packages are also available and the Sunraysia Golf Range has a licensed bar. After hosting many such functions in the last four years I guarantee it is a lot of fun, even more so for those who have never hit a golf ball before! Give me a call on 0419 208 337 for more details or phone the range on 50 229440.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Lots of great rounds played on Sunraysia golf courses this week. Tom Mins at Red Cliffs and Bob Bettess and George Mason at Mildura each had great rounds seven better than their handicaps. At Riverside Jamie Lanyon came in with eight better, which is hard to beat. Every now and then though, someone has the golfing day of their life and this was the case at Red Cliffs in the monthly medal on Saturday. Greg Yound had 63 net including a hole in one to be this weeks Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week winner. Greg wins four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's beautiful golf courses which must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range at 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with any golfing information or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

2/11/11

RHODES SET FOR ANOTHER COOMEALLA CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
Greg Rhodes looks likely to win another club championship at Coomealla Golf Club over the next two weekends. If Coomealla sets up their course as difficult as it was for the last monthly medal, it favours him, as the harder the course the better it is for the very best players. At 52 years of age Rhodes is playing better than ever as his 68 off the stick at Coomy on Sunday attests. The best chance any of his competitors have is to start well and be at least on equal terms coming into the last round. There have been occasions in the past when he has not played to his best in that situation. This year the genuine chances to upset his championship defence are Mark Hahn who is unknown to most of the local golfing fraternity. Hahn splits his golfing time between Gawler and Coomealla where his best 8 rounds in the last few months average out to just over 74's. He is a definite chance as is new South Australian Jake Laubsch who won this championship in 2009. Laubsch, who is still a junior, moved to Adelaide last year and will be keen to knock off Mr Rhodes as he did in 09 when he came from 4 shots back in the final round. Tim Walker has just turned 18 and is fresh off an easy win in the Red Cliffs club championship where he won by 16 shots. Walker will be keen to do well on Sunraysia's premier golf course as he has struggled there somewhat in the past. Country week players Jacob Slimmon and perennial runner up Cameron Stewart could also surprise if they can begin well. There is no greater test in local golf than 72 holes of stroke play at Coomealla under championship conditions. After playing in Scotland, Ireland, New Zealand and Tasmania there is no doubt that Coomealla compares favourably providing a wonderful test to golfers of all levels. Play to your handicap in this tournament and it is an achievement, only 14% of players managed it on one or more days last year.
NEW CLUB COMMITTEES - SPONSORSHIPS/PARTNERSHIPS
Now is the time of year when local golf clubs are preparing for their AGM's and new committee people are being sought. Gone are the days, unfortunately when the club president and captain are accorded the respect from their members that was common place in yester year. Mind you lots of things have slipped, including course attire. Call me old fashioned but dirty old jeans, track suit pants, shirts and tops that resemble an off road advertising board really bring down the standard that all clubs used to enforce. It is the norm now to wear whatever you like irrespective of how dowdy and untidy it looks. What disappoints me is that it is not just green fee players that look like stragglers at a protest march, but some of our very best local golfers also don't understand that they are role models for juniors and other new club members. Anyhow, with regard to new committee people, one thing that should be addressed is sponsorship, which is now referred to as "partnerships". This corporate support is vital to the running of any club, particularly golf clubs. Quite often the responsibility to seek new sponsors is given to the last poor sod who was talked into going onto the committee. Hence, quite often through ignorance mainly, these unsuspecting souls go forth into the wilderness with their hands out asking anyone and everyone for financial assistance for their clubs. After being on both sides of the sponsorship counter for nearly thirty years, there is a right way and a wrong way to go about it. All sponsorship chair persons should be reminded of what John F Kennedy said "Ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country". In other words in asking for sponsorship, inform the prospective sponsor first of what your club can offer in return for their support. Not, this is what we want from you, how about it? Which basically is what the majority of sponsorship seekers ask. It is tough being on a committee these days but it is also rewarding if you can contribute and make a difference. Get in and have a go, there are so many people who just sit back and criticize but if you really enjoy being part of your golf club and want to see it prosper and be there in years to come for your children and grand-children then remember Ron Barassi's catch cry "If it is to be, it is up to me".
BARNBOUGLE DUNES AND LOST FARM
Last week there was no 19th hole as I was hosting a group down to Barnbougle Dunes and Lost Farm golf clubs in Tasmania. On Monday my wife Kym is taking 16 ladies down there to experience the exquisite golf courses and quiet ambiance of golf beside the sea. The girls will be staying on course in brand new units just completed at Lost Farm. Barnbougle Dunes/Lost Farm is the number one public access golf resort in Australia which is at it's best in summer. We are taking a mixed group down there from February 10-13 for another short break which will book out quickly. Let me know if you would like to be part of that group.
GOLF RULES RE-JIGGED
The R & A together with the USGA have altered several of the existing golf rules for 2012. Common sense dictated some of the changes including no penalty for a ball moving after it is addressed if the movement was in no way caused by the player. Players will also be able to smooth out footprints or divots in a bunker before playing their shot as long as it doesn't improve the lie of the ball. Another interesting change is that if a player is late to the tee he can still participate but with a two shot penalty in strokeplay or loss of the first hole in matchplay. Being late has always meant disqualification in the past. For all of the rule changes go to the web site for the Victorian Golf Association. The really comical section in my view is the one relating to amateurs and what can and cannot be given or paid for as an amateur golfer. It really is a dogs breakfast as expenses can be paid in some circumstances but not others and prizes and cash can be given out to some but not to others. Very confusing. After reading it I thought to myself "and Jesus wept".
COMPTON TAKES THIRD HEART - NITTIES HEART SINKS
There were two heartfelt stories that came out of the Nationwide Players Championship on Sunday. Two-time heart transplant recipient Erik Compton finished 13th on the money list earning a 2012 PGA Tour card. The top 25 on the money list automatically get PGA Tour cards. Compton began playing golf at age 12 in 1992 after his first heart transplant for exercise and therapy. Golf soon became more than just exercise as he quickly got down to a scratch handicap by the time he had turned 15. He needed a new heart in 2008 when the first transplanted heart failed. "Golf has been such a rehab for life for me, where I could go out and not think about the issues I have." he said. Compton had another setback in July when his body rejected his heart, something doctors got under control with medicine. On Sunday he finished 18th in the tour ending championship which was his best finish since winning the Mexico Open earlier in the year. The hard luck story of the Nationwide Tour was for Australian James Nitties who was travelling really well up until the second last event when he became ill and slept through his tee time and was subsequently disqualified. He had been playing well and only needed to finish to cement his place in the top 25. On Sunday he dropped back to 26th after recording a 76 on the Saturday which he couldn't recover from on Sunday. He missed getting his Tour card by only $6000 and must play the Nationwide Tour again next year. Matt Goggin finished third on the money list after leading it up until last month and Gavin Coles moved up to 17th spot after winning the second last tournament. Both players have played on the PGA Tour before.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Good scores were few and far between this week with most clubs conducting 4BBB's or Ambrose's, hence there were few single events. Chris Hill had 43 points at Riverside to come in behind Coomealla's Howard Jones who had 4 points to better his handicap by ten shots. Chris wins the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week and four laminated placemats of golf holes from either Riverside, Coomealla, Mildura, Red Cliffs or Wentworth golf clubs which must be collected by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

26/10/11

BARNBOUGLE DUNES A TASMANIAN GEM
This week the 19th hole visited Barnbougle Dunes and Lost Farm and were delighted with both courses and the friendly hospitality of the staff at both facilities. We last visited this precinct in March and both courses are getting better with age, particularly Lost Farm. Most of our group were playing these courses for the first time and were suitably impressed. On one hole a stray tee shot into the rough yielded fourteen balls but unfortunately not the one that the search was for. Links golf is really something special where the contours of fairways and the subtle borrows of the greens really have to be studied before a shot or putt. On parkland courses the game is mainly played through the air but it is on the ground much quicker in Links golf, if it is played how it was designed to be. After golf tours to Scotland, Ireland and New Zealand where there are some wonderful links courses, Barnbougle Dunes compares most favourably with the very best of links courses that we have played. The golf professional at Barnbougle is former Australian Amateur champion Brett Partridge who has been at the course since its inception. Brett had an outstanding amateur career and competed with some distinction as a professional until a wrist injury ended his career prematurely. Kym is hosting 16 ladies at both courses in two weeks time and we are also looking to take 24 folk down to the apple isle in February.
BIG TIME GOLF IN SPAIN AND ASIA
With on six weeks left in the 2011 season there are many big time golf tournaments being played in Europe and Australasia. The Race to Dubai has everyone's attention in world golf with only a few tournaments left for players to qualify in the top 60 for the last tournament in Dubai. Rory McIlroy is storming home and looks to be hitting top form at the right time. Last years winner Martin Kaymer is cruising along without breaking any records and the South Africans are looming as dark horses for the title. A host of Americans are playing in Spain as a warm up for the Australian Open and the Presidents Cup. More news on these events tomorrow.
RULE CHANGES FOR 2012
The R & A have announced several new rule changes that will be welcomed by all golfers for their common sense decisions. The ball moving after being addressed, time of starting and seeing ball; searching for ball are the three main rule changes. Basically each rule change refers to accidental previous rules breaches as against unintentional former rule breaches. Really it still comes back to the players own integrity but eliminates for instance if the wind blows your ball after you have addressed it. Currently that would incur a penalty but next year it won't because the player hasn't caused the ball to move. A full explanation of all of the rules that have been modified are available at several web sites including the R & A and VGA sites.

18/10/11

MILDURA ON SHOW AT MELBOURNE GOLF SHOW
The 2011 Melbourne Golf Show held at the Melbourne Showgrounds last weekend provided an excellent opportunity to showcase Sunraysia's golf clubs and it's many attractions to Victoria's golfing public. More than 250 "showbags" were handed out over the two days with information and flyers on golf packages, houseboat holidays, tourism information, winery, breweries and many other district attractions. Whilst the free give aways are always going to be popular, we were pleasantly surprised at how many people recognised the Sun Salt and Curlwaa orange juice brands but did not realise it came from the Mildura region. After displaying at golf shows for more than twenty years one thing comes through loud and clear - Mildura/Sunraysia is not a golfing destination that most people know about or have been to for some time. We asked everyone that passed by the stand "when is the last time you came to Mildura? The majority of people said "not for a long time" Probably twenty five to thirty per cent said that they had never been here at all. The most recognised local names were Stefano's and the Workingman's Club. A lot of people had heard of Murray Downs at Swan Hill but few had heard of Coomealla Golf Club. After years of stressing the importance of brand awareness in this column, only Riverside and Mildura Golf Clubs continue to be the only local clubs that send their results through to the metropolitan newspapers. That costs a few cents per week and a minute bit of effort but it is terrific awareness and advertising of our golf clubs. Organisers of terrific events such as the Tri-State Masters, Golf Week, Coomealla Senior Championship and Robinvale's Festival of Golf work hard to get people to come to the tournaments, just a few minutes of effort after each competition would assist in the name recognition of our golf clubs. It comes under the heading of - attention to detail, or in the cases of Coomealla, Red Cliffs, Wentworth, Robinvale and Merbein Golf Clubs, lack of attention to detail. We are more than willing to fly the flag at golf shows for our clubs and our district but just a bit of support with promotion of clubs for themselves would really go a long way! Mildura Tourism are eager to try and get all of our golf clubs together to present a marketing and awareness strategy in an attempt to attract more golfers to our district. Unless all of our golf clubs pull together as a group and work together to achieve that common goal then nothing will happen. Progress is all about looking forward, planning and then putting the plan in motion. Hey Sunraysia golf clubs, how about it?
Australian Open & The Presidents Cup
There were forty different stands at the Melbourne Golf Show representing around 240 different golf clubs, tournaments and brands. After speaking to many of the stand holders it was obvious that most feel that the interest in the up coming Australian Open and the Presidents Cup followed by the Australian Masters and PGA championship is going to give the Australian golf industry a real shot in the arm. Golf is facing many challenges and the hype and publicity that these four events will create couldn't have come at a better time. Once upon a time golf clubs sat and waited for members and green fee players to turn up. These days if you don't work hard to attract new members and players then you will soon be left wondering what happened. All of the major golf clubs in Melbourne are focussing on their revenue and how to maintain and increase numbers. It is no different to football, tennis, cricket and all of our other major sports, everyone is chasing bums on seats. We have got the courses, tournaments, accommodation, restaurants. The time is now.
WALKER TROTS IN AT RED CLIFFS
Tim Walker is the 2011 Red Cliffs Golf Club champion after rounds of 78-68-74-74. Runner up was seven times club champion Justin McPhee who had 77-76-77-76. Walker was never troubled after the second round and went into the last round with a comfortable ten stroke lead. Walker is following in the footsteps of his sister Christie who is now a golf professional teaching at the Melbourne Golf Acadamey. Red Cliffs were disappointed with their championship field of only 29 players and may have to look at rescheduling their championships to earlier in the year. The Red Cliffs golf course is improving all the time, the weather was tough on Saturday but perhaps, like many other clubs, their older members opted not to play four stroke rounds in a row. John Filippi and Jim Douglas were the B and C grade winners.
WILMANN TOO GOOD AT RIVERSIDE
Steve Wilmann was not challenged in the last two rounds of the 2011 Riverside Golf Club championships winning by ten shots after rounds of 67-71-76-78. Runner up was Robert Veit with 75-73-79-75. Wilmann has been a gifted golfer since his early teens as his first two rounds where he was six under par attests. On the weekend his scores slipped but it is difficult to maintain that standard when you are so far in front. Sometimes caution can go the other way. It would be really good for Steve, Riverside Golf Club and Sunraysia Golf if he could seriously commit to having a go at being one of the districts top players. There is no doubt that he is capable of being in the top three or four players, if he want to. Not everyone wants to see how far they can go in golf,but oh so many would love to have the ability to try. Steve Wilmann has that ability and could win Open tournaments, if he really wanted to. In other grades at Riverside, Jamie Donaldson, Brendan Marr and Russell Dower were successful. The club were pleased with their field of 79 players.
McGAFFIN HOLDS ON AT MERBEIN
Peter McGaffin won the Merbein Golf Club championship for the first time on Sunday with rounds of 72-82-82-82. 2010 champion Phil Matotek was runner up with rounds of 80-81-81-82. McGaffin really set up the win with an impressive par round of 72 in the first round and was never seriously challenged after that. On Sunday Matotek closed within five shots with five holes to play but a lost ball off the tee on the fourteenth, ending his hopes of a back to back win. Merbein has now had five different winners in five years and it is a credit to the smallest club in the district how the majority if it's members support the majority of their events. Nick Cavallo was the B grade champion and Merv Woodhouse won the prestigious Martin Cup.
SOME GOLFING TRUISMS
Golf can best be defined as an endless series of tragedies obscured by the occasional miracle, followed by a good bottle of beer.
Golf! You hit down to make the ball go up. You swing left and the ball goes right.
The lowest score wins. And on top of that, the winner buys the drinks.
If you find you do not mind playing golf in the rain, the snow, even during a hurricane, here's a valuable tip: your life is in trouble.
Golfers who try to make everything perfect before taking the shot rarely make a perfect shot.
A 'gimme' can best be defined as an agreement between two golfers ...neither of whom can putt very well.
An interesting thing about golf is that no matter how badly you play; it is always possible to get worse.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Scores were only average across the board this week. Eight players recorded rounds of six better than handicap including: Jim Piper and Bernie Dean at Merbein, Aaron Shaw and Linda Jakubans at Wentworth and Robert Young, Philip Webster, Frank Crouch and Joe Cifti at Mildura. The winner of the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week is Merv Woodhouse who had 44 points at Merbein last Wednesday. Merv can pick up four laminated placemats of Sunrsaysia's golf courses from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

11/10/11

2011 MELBOURNE GOLF SHOW
Sunraysia golf clubs and our district's top attractions will be presented to the Victorian golfing public this weekend at the 2011 Melbourne Golf Show. Sunraysia Golf Tours are partnering with Mildura Tourism Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club, Mildura Golf Club Resort, Riverside Golf Club and several other business on a stand at the Melbourne Showgrounds. Adventure Houseboats, PS Mundoo, Melbourne and Rothbury will all have displays and Trentham Estate Wines will be given away along with Curlwaa Orange Juice. The 20th Tri-State Masters 54 hole golf tournament from May 20-25 will be featured on the stand giving exposure to the tournament and Sunraysia's fantastic golfing facilities. Melbourne Golf Show organisers are expecting in excess of 20,000 visitors to the show which is free to the public. Golf will be the buzz word in Melbourne over the next few weeks in the the lead up to the Australian Open on November 10, followed by the Presidents Cup at Royal Melbourne on November 18. There is no doubt that the Presidents Cup will easily be the biggest golf event ever conducted in Australia. We first began exhibiting at golf shows at the Australian Open at Kingston Heath in 1989. Since then we have had stands at golf shows and tournaments in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. Golf tournament entrants and the travelling golfers custom are very much sought after by golf clubs, golf tournaments and tour companies. It is a very competitive marketplace with so many tournaments and events virtually available every week of the year, many offering big prizes and inducements. In Sunraysia we have some excellent facilities and attractions but the biggest hurdle to overcome is the travesty of distance to attract golfers here. The aim therefore is to convince people that what we have is worth coming for, then staying just that little bit longer than say, a weekend trip to Swan Hill, Echuca or Yarrawonga. It presents another great opportunity to meet and greet people from all sorts of places and backgrounds and talk about our favourite topics. Golf and the delights of Sunraysia.
WILMANN ON FIRE AT RIVERSIDE
The real Steve Wilmann stepped forward at Riverside in the 2011 Riverside club championship. On Saturday he blew the field away with a superb round of 67. 2010 champion Chris Thomas was left nine shots behind whilst multiple club champion Robert Viet was one better on 75. The second day of a championship can be a bit of a let down but not so at the picturesque river course as Wilmann followed up with 71. This is seriously good golf, matched by Thomas who had 72 and Viet who had 73. The chasers are ten shots behind but round three is moving day and it remains to be seen if the all "new" Steve Wilmann will continue on with the job or relax back into party mode. It would be fantastic if he could break par every day of the championship. That would sort of be "Rhodeseque".
WALKER ON THE TROT AT RED CLIFFS
Tim Walker holds seven a shot lead over club legend Justin McPhee after two rounds of the Red Cliffs club championships. On Saturday both boys played together and were probably more intent on what the other was doing than concentrating fully on their own games. McPhee held a narrow one shot advantage shooting a disappointing 77 to Walkers 78. On Sunday Walker slipped straight into first gear reeling off a 68 to McPhee's 76. Walker and McPhee are playing all four rounds together and McPhee will be desperate to put the pressure on the youngster early on Saturday. It is not easy to lead a championship, especially with someone of the calibre of McPhee breathing down your neck. Walker though, is very level headed and needs only to shoot around par to hold the "chief" at bay.
SMASHER IN THE CLEAR AT MERBEIN
There was a bit of deja vu at Merbein in their club championships at the weekend. Last year after two rounds "Smasher" McGaffin was four shots in front and cruising. This year he is nine shots clear from last years eventual champion Phil "Tosh" Matotek. On Saturday McGaffin shot 72 off the stick, nine shots better than handicap, which is a great performance. Matotek came in with an 80 which is about what you would expect of his handicap of 9. On Sunday McGaffin backed up with an 82 to Matotek's 81. On Saturday everyone at the club will be watching and waiting to see what happens. Can the "Smasher" keep it going or will Matotek strike back to give himself a chance of going back to back on Sunday?
HEATHER BOTHROYD
The Heather Bothroyd American Mixed Foursomes was played at the Mildura Golf Club Resort on Sunday. Heather was a well known golfing personality in Sunraysia for many years in 60's till 80's. She passed away in 1985 but her memory is perpetuated with awards at both Mildura and Riverside Golf Clubs. On Sunday her daughter Mandy teamed up with John Keogh to take out the title with a 75 off the stick. It is the second time Mandy has been on the winners dais for her mothers award. Back in the heady days of the 60's, 70's and 80's mixed golf was so much bigger and more popular than it is today, many district couples would frequent the "mixed circuit" at all of the district's golf clubs. Sadly with the advent of television, texting, facebook and twitter, that social side of golf and visiting other clubs has dropped right off. It is a real pity.
PRESIDENTS CUP AT ROYAL MELBOURNE
Everything is beginning to fall into place for the ninth staging of the Presidents Cup at Royal Melbourne from November 14-20. Whilst the tournament cannot be compared realistically to the enormous hype of the Ryder Cup which is played between the US and Europe on the even years. It is edging closer. The American players are all looking forward to playing at what is regarded as one of the best five golf courses in the world. So far Hale Irwin, Arnold Palmer, Ken Venturi, Jack Nicklaus and Fred Couples have Captained the US teams whilst David Graham, Peter Thomson, Gary Player and Greg Norman have been our leaders. Take five Aussies including Adam Scott, Jason Day, Geoff Ogilvy, Robert Allenby and Aaron Baddeley and match them up against the likes of Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bubba Watson and it should be such a wonderful celebration of the very best that the game of golf has to offer. This event is matchplay golf in two's and in singles and is without doubt, golf in it's purest form. Go internationals!
RACE TO DUBAI
The Race to Dubai is the European Tour's answer to the FedEx Cup in America. This year probably hasn't been as sensational as last year in the lead up but the race is nearing completion with only ten more tournaments until the finale in Dubai beginning December 8. After that championship, $7,500,000 will be divided between the top 15 finishers. The standings at present see world number one Luke Donald in first place ahead of Rory McIlroy, Charl Schwartzel, Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer, Anders Hansen, Thomas Bjorn, Simon Dyson, Darren Clarke and Alexander Noren. This week they play in the Portugal Masters.
PORKY PRIZE IN MADRID
Scotsman Elliot Saltman hammed it up at the Madrid Masters on the European Tour last week. The tournament offered up a really bizarre hole in one prize on the 180 metre par 3 third hole which Saltman aced with a seven iron. His prize was his weight in ham! After not making the cut for the weekend he had to work out how to get 240lb of ham valued at $11,000 on a plane to take home. Saltman is a bit of a hole in one specialist as in June he had two holes in one at the Wales Open at Celtic Manor. Sounds like Christmas will be huge at his place this year.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The scores were red hot last week with club championships bringing the best out in some of the districts top golfers. Steve Wilmann was top of the list with a 67 and 71, Tim Walker was next on 68 and Peter McGaffin and Chris Thomas both had par rounds. In the handicap stakes Merv Woodhouse was seven better at Merbein as was Don Wright at Riverside and Tracey Hywood at Coomealla. McGaffin was second only to Riverside's prodigal son Brett Hayes who has resumed playing golf after a seven year hiatus. Brett wins the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week and four Sunraysia Golf Course laminated placemats. These must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with any golfing information or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

9/10/11

SUNRAYSIA EDGING CLOSER AT COUNTRY WEEK GOLF
Sunraysia District Golf Association finished its 2011 Country Week mission on a high on Friday at Long Island Golf Club against fromidable opposition in Goulburn Valley. Goulburn Valley has been a dominant force at Country week for more than twenty five years and defend their record with an admirable strength of determination. Sunraysia knew it was in for a real dogfight but came up trumps 6/3. For Sunraysia Tim Walker squared his match against State player Jason Zappelli in what turned out to be the match of the week. Walker was two down with four to play but came roaring home with the whole Sunraysia team following on behind giving him loud vocal support. Prior to the last contest Cameron Stewart had won his match at number two and Captain Justin McPhee had won easily 6/4. Tim Peterson and Ryan Laird had both won their fouth contests for the week to claim equal shares on the Brendan O'Brien Award for best Sunraysia player of the week. Sean Baumgurtel was the other winner on the day picking up his second win for the week. A rare record occurred with all ten Sunraysia players recording at least on e win with Ashley Whitehouse, Jacob Slimmon, Andrew Stewart and Robert Veit all saluting once. Whitehouse battled manfully against top class players losing three contests on the 18th. His is a fine recrd at Country Week so he would be disappointed with his win loss ratio of 1/4 this year. Whitehouse is a vital cog to Sunraysia winning the Division One title for the first time. Next year Tim Walker is off to South Australia leaving a big hole in the team. If for instance Greg Rhodes, Steve Wilmann and Matthew Lynch decided to stand for selection, then next year Sunraysia would have its best ever chance of claiming the title of top Country District in Victoria. It can happen if all contributing parties unite to make it happen.
Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker lost a sudden death play off for the Victorian Country Championship at Green Acres Golf Club on Friday on the third extra hole. The 36 hole championship concluded at Woodlands Golf Club on Tuesday but the Victorian Golf Association were not adequately prepared for a playoff result. Traralgon's Matt Couling had played his second round in the morning so when Walker finished equal with him he had left the course some hours earlier. This is where the tournament conditions broke down. Any professionally run tournament would normally have a playoff scenario prepared and make sure that anyone who is a possible play off candidate be in attendance if that situation is to arise. This wasn't the case from the State's governing golf body. Furthermore, with three days still to go to organize a playoff the ruling body suggested that the playoff be conducted at Kew Golf Club on the Friday morning after Couling played there in the morning. Sunraysia officials were disappointed that a more convenient course between Long Island Golf Club in Frankston and Kew Golf Club be sourced for the playoff. Green Acres Golf Club two minutes from Kew Golf Club was decided by the VGA to be the playoff venue. Walker then had to high tail it from Frankston to Kew whilst his opponent relaxed and practiced at Green Acres until his opponent arrived. Both players parred the first two holes then Walker hit a mammoth drive down the third hole which just kept going and going, eventually finishing in a watery grave and sinking his chances of the title. Full credit to Couling for his well deserved win but once again the VGA continue a tradition of not getting things right. Walker though, can hold his head high as the playoff loss does in no way detract from his excellent performance over the full five days of the tournament. He will be extremely difficult to replace next year at the top of the order when he continues on his journey towards a life in golf, eventually progressing into the professional ranks. This has been his dream for several years and if he continues to work just as hard on his game there is no doubt that he has the talent to succeed.
Sunraysia Team Performance Statistics
Player Played Won Draw Lost Total Points
Tim Peterson 5 4 - 1 8
Ryan Laird 5 4 - 1 8
Justin McPhee 5 3 - 2 6
Tim Walker 5 2 1 2 5
Cameron Stewart 5 2 1 2 5
Sean Baumgurtel 4 2 - 2 4
Jacob Slimmon 5 1 1 3 3
Robert Veit 3 1 1 1 3
Ash Whitehouse 5 1 - 4 2
Andrew Stewart 3 1 - 2 2

5/10/11

PHIL LAWN 2011 WENTWORTH CLUB CHAMPION
Phil Lawn is the new Wentworth Golf Club champion after coming from six strokes behind leader Matthew Lynch 69-72-72-77 in the last round then winning a four hole playoff after shooting rounds of 71-75-73-71. Lynch went into the last round seemingly past the post and heading for his sixth title as champion. With five holes to play Lawn still trailed by six shots but then shot two under par to draw level with the defending champion who had imploded in the last four holes. Wentworth Golf club has a set four hole play off for all championships on the 10th, 16th, 17th and 18th holes. Both players parred 10 and 16 but Lynch bogeyed 17 and 18 to Lawn's pars handing the championship to the former three time Red Cliffs Golf Club champion. Apart from his three club championship wins at Red Cliffs, Lawn had also won the Red Cliffs Open and last year won the scratch section of the Rivertowns Classic. Yesterday he said "I thought my championship was over on the last hole on Saturday when I took triple bogey on the 18th for the second day in a row. With nine holes to go Lynchy was still six in front but I kept battling away and eventually knocked in a couple of birdies to put the pressure on" Lawn is playing off a two handicap at Wentworth and Coomealla and is still only young in golfing terms with lots of good golf ahead of him. In the B grade section Doug Rowsell won a five hole play off with club president Keith Plain to end a very exciting championship for the club.
WALKER STEPS UP IN VICTORIAN COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIP
Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker finished equal first in the junior section of the Victorian Country Championship at Spring Valley and Woodlands Golf Clubs in Melbourne on Monday and Tuesday. He will now go into a sudden death play off at Green Acres Golf Club on Friday afternoon to decide the championship. Walker shot 75 on Monday and followed it up with an excellent 73 at Woodlands, regarded as one of Melbourne's stiffest tests of golfing skill. His score of 148 placed him fifth overall behind Goulburn Valley's James Zappelli who had 70-75. Next best performer for Sunraysia was Cameron Stewart who had 71-77. Jacob Slimmon is nearing top form after rounds of 82-73 whilst Robert Veit 88-81 improved overnight but Sean Baumgurtel 85-90 and Andrew Stewart 78-DNF really struggled at Woodlands. The remaining five players in the team elected to miss the championship and concentrate on the matchplay section of Country Week which begins today at Victoria Golf Club. Sunraysia will play arch rival Bendigo this morning and ballarat this afternoon.
CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS AT MERBEIN-RIVERSIDE-RED CLIFFS
The 2011 club championships hits off at Merbein,Riverside and Red Cliffs on Saturday. Last year Chris Thomas won his first club championship at Riverside and will be eager to go back to back this year. It will be a huge task as this year, on the surface at least, there appears to be at least five strong challengers for the title. Troy Germaine was runner up last year and could go one better if he can maintain the pressure for all four rounds. Steve Wilmann first won the Riverside's club championship in 1999 and has been a solid player since. If he were to play his very best golf he would win comfortably but he prefers to "enjoy" his golf these days, perhaps though this year he might feel the urge to get serious. Dave Woolcock was responsible for the best round of the year (68) by a Riverside member this year and if he can replicate that form then he is in with a strong chance. Other who should feature during the championship are Alan Mcmaster and Robert Veit. Phil Matotek will defend his title at Merbein and faces strong opposition from Gavin Hocking, Smasher McGaffin, Ken Matulick and 2009 champion Roger Walder. Out at Red Cliffs Golf club it will be a gigantic tussle between seven times club champion Justin McPhee and the districts top junior player Tim Walker. Walker is off to greener pastures in Adelaide next year and will be keen to win his club championship for the first time. McPhee though, will start favourite.
VETERANS GOLF CLASSIC
Mildura golf club Resort will conduct the 2011 Veterans Golf Classic on Friday October 14 and Monday October 17. Fridays round is a 4BBB stablefor with men's and ladies sections and Monday's game will be a single stableford with sections for both genders. This will be third year of the event which is part of the Seniors Week Festival held throughout Victoria and includes lots of many and varied events and programs for seniors (over 50). Mildura Golf club Resort is one of sixteen Victorian country golf clubs to run the event. Cost per day is $20 per player. Phone the club on 50 231147 for more information. All welcome.
DAVID GOOD VICTORIAN SENIOR OPEN CHAMPION
Former Tasmanian golf professional David Good (72-70) won the 2011 Victorian Senior Championship at Beacon Hills Golf Club last week from Queenslander Terry Price (71-72). This was an outstanding effort in deplorable weather conditions that necessitated delays over the two day 36 hole championship. Good was instrumental in establishing the Riverside Senior Pro Am which ran from 1999-2001 and played at Riverside for three years culminating the last year for the Victorian Senior Championship. Good only played in the first Riverside event in 1999 as he qualified for the European Senior Tour and competed there for the next ten years. During his ten year stint in Europe he won twice in Tunisia and Holland and continues to have exempt status due to his career earnings on the tour. Last year he returned to Melbourne and is much sought after as a teaching professional at Mount Martha and Sorrento Golf Clubs. Yesterday he spoke about his time in Europe "I really enjoyed the experience of playing on the European Seniors Tour. You get to meet some great people and play on the best golf courses in the world. My personal favourite is Turnberry in Scotland but Royal Country Down in Ireland is not far behind it. I contested three British Senior Opens at Royal County Down, one of which Ian Stanley won and also three US Senior PGA's. At 64 I felt it was time to come home and settle down and see more of my daughter and two sons who all live nearby. I really enjoy coming to Mildura and hope that a Seniors Pro Am can come back onto our Senior program of events. Many of the pro's who played in those events still talk about what a great time they had in Mildura". The amateur section of the championship at Beacon Hills was noteworthy as former test cricketer Dean Jones won the nett section and was second by one shot in the amateur scratch with 72-72.
THE WORST-CASE SCENARIO SURVIVAL HANDBOOK FOR GOLF
Some funny things happens on our golf tours. While it is an unwritten rule that "whatever happens on the tour, stays on the tour" I can't help resist recalling an incident at Gleneagles in our first game on Scottish soil. One of our group found himself in some long wet grass, in playing his shot he lost control of the club and it flew into one of his female playing partners. Fortunately she was not injured but more in shock she continued her round. On reaching Ireland several days latter I was fossicking around in a book shop when I came across a book titled Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook for Golf. On reading the chapters there were sections devoted to - How To Prevent a Club from Flying Out of Your Hands and another on How to Avoid Getting Hit by a Ball and further, How to Carry an Injured Golfer. Naturally I purchased the book which also features chapters on, How to Disarm Irate Golfer, How to cCntrol Your Golf Rage, How to Survive a Tornado, How to Thwart a Cheat, How to Stop Thinking About a Horrible Shot and How to Scale a Fence to Retrieve a Ball. There are over 70 chapters on how to overcome problems and disasters in the book which is really fun to read, some of the advice may actually come in quite handy. It sure would have in Scotland!
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Scores were down overall at most clubs last week due to the inclement weather and less golf being played on Grand Final weekend. At Coomealla Bernie Sprague and Michael Morrall both fired up with 42 points which equalled Lou Young at Red Cliffs. At Mildura Golf Club Resort Gerald Power and Dennis McLaughlin both had plus six but the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week goes to Marty Livingstone who shot a more than credible plus seven. Marty can pick up four Sunraysia Golf Clubs laminated placemats from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

27/9/11

SUNRAYSIA ALL SET FOR COUNTRY WEEK
The best ten available players in district golf will travel down to Melbourne on Sunday to do battle with the best players in country Victoria at 2011 Country Week. This will be the third year in a row that Sunraysia will contest division one after two excellent team performances in 2009-2010. Team captain Justin McPhee has led from the front during the last four years and will really need to rise to the occasion again this year if Sunraysia is to maintain its place in division one. Experienced campaigners in Ashley Whitehouse, Tim Peterson and Cameron Stewart will also be expected to play to their optimum. Tim Walker is the up and comer that most expect to be our top contributor after an excellent domestic season. Jacob Slimmon hasn't played much golf this year but is capable of playing top golf as his scratch handicap suggests. Andrew Stewart is a hot and cold player who is capable of lifting at the right time, next week will be one of those times. Ryan Laird has had extensive experience in a number of state and national competitions in the last two years and is capable of performing well at this level. Sean Baumgurtel has shown in recent years that he is comfortable in this competition and Robert Veit was playing Country Week before Walker and Laird were born. After our ladies team had their best result in 26 years in Melbourne last month it is now time for the men to wear their new uniforms with pride and show Victoria that it is not just our weather that shines.
COOMEALLA MEN TO THE FORE
Coomealla's Ron Hunt and John Fletcher have qualified for the National Championship Final of the Pacific Golfer Best Ball Challenge on the Gold Coast on October 17-18. Ron and John finished third in the State final at Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club in Melbourne recently after winning the Sunraysia leg last month. By qualifying for the final they each receive a stay and play package valued at $1295 per person staying at the Radisson Resort on course at Palm Meadows Golf Club. Hopes are high that they can take out the final as Ron is one of the longest hitters at Coomealla and John comes from an impressive career as a top golfer in South Australia in his earlier years. The event is a four ball better ball stableford to be played at Coolangatta Tweed Heads, these two have combined brilliantly together to make a more than formidable combination. All players who contested the Coomealla leg still have a chance of winning a great prize to be drawn at the final presentation dinner as all contestants from the 150 clubs will go into a free draw for some sensational prizes. Next year will be the third running of the championship and the Coomealla leg is sure to be booked out, particularly if the Ronjohns win this year.
IRELAND A GOLFING HEAVEN
On Sunday Kym and I returned home from our 2011 golf tour to Scotland and Ireland. It really was a golfing holiday of a lifetime. We hosted folk from Coomealla, Riverside, Red Cliffs, Wodonga and The Dunes golf clubs, all of whom were blown away with the whole package. We first visited Edinburgh and took off around the city on a double Decker bus where you can jump on and off at regular intervals, this gives people a really good look at the city and all of it's attractions. The following day we travelled to Gleneagles where three golf courses are offered to its members and guests. We played the Kings course which was the original course where Pro Celebrity Golf was filmed for television featuring Seve Ballesteros and Lee Trevino partnering celebrities such as Sean Connery and Ronnie Corbett. Our next stop was at Royal Troon golf club which has hosted eight British Opens. The weather was extremely challenging as the golf course is located right next to the sea and the wind was unbelievably strong. The par 3 eighth hole known as the Postage Stamp is the shortest hole used on any British Open course at 111 metres but I needed a 5 iron to reach the green. We left bonny Scotland and headed for Belfast by ferry with our coach driver Colm a virtual local who gave us a two hour tour of Belfast and its roughest, toughest and historic spots. This was most intriguing and Colm held everyone's attention with his commentary on the IRA and the unpleasantness that had permeated across the city for so many years. Thankfully, Belfast and its communities, for all intents and purposes has moved on, peace has been struck as people now walk the streets without any fear of intimidation or repercussion. Our first stop in Ireland was at Templepatrick where a 36 hole professional tournament was concluding as we arrived. The course was in exemplary condition but our group struggled to get anywhere near the course record of 65 that was posted during the tournament. Our next stop was at Druids Glen which proudly boasts it's course as the "Augusta of Europe". Druids Glen is a picture perfect golf course, the on course accommodation and dining facility are top class. Next on the itinerary, a weekend in Dublin where we were inundated with good natured heckling by any Irishman we came into contact with as Ireland had knocked off Australia in the World Cup rugby in New Zealand. If you think Australians are passionate about their sport then the Irish come a close second as they replayed the games continuously for three days at the hotel we stayed in. Limerick was our next stop and provided lots of fun and frivolity. After playing at Lahinch which opened in 1892 but was redesigned in 1927 by Dr Alister McKenzie, most of our group suggested that the golf course was unlike anything that they had ever seen before. After playing Lahinch in 2000 Riverside's Ken Ellery suggested it was like playing golf on the moon.
Kym though, rates it as her favourite golf course, an interesting choice by any measure but that is part of the attraction that golf is. Every golf course is different in its own way, be that subtle, challenging, breathtaking or simply indescribable. That night we attended a medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle which was a real highlight. Popular Red Cliffs golfer Ray Pain was thrown into the dungeon for a minor misdemeanour and had to agree to sing for his supper in front of 200 guests. Ray chose Old Shep as his song and was doing quite nicely until he forgot the words, he ended the performance by singing that old Shep was crook so he shot him. I'm not sure the big German and American contingents in attendance knew what an old Shep was but they applauded warmly when Ray left the stage! Old Head golf links in Kinsale was our next port of call, recently awarded the most spectacular golf course on the planet ahead of Cypress Point and Whistling Straits in the US and Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand, by Links golf magazine. Having played Cape Kidnappers on our last two New Zealand golf tours we agreed with the magazines assessment as it surpasses any other course we have played for that wow factor, both as a golf course and for its stunning views from every direction. Old Head sits on a 180 acre promontory with 300 foot drops to the Atlantic Ocean below and a lighthouse that guards the course providing a wonderful backdrop to the closing 18th hole. The accommodation, food, hospitality and friendliness of the staff was exceptional, not cheap but worth every penny. After Old Head everyone was thinking that the next course would be a let down. This was not to be as Mt Juliet provided a completely different course set in 1500 acres of parkland which included fishing, trekking and horse riding. Voted the best parkland course in Britain and winning Hotel of the year awards along with the 1000 acre stud property alongside the course, Mt Juliet provided a superb relaxing climax to our holiday. Coomealla's Michael Morrall was awarded the "Ellery Award" for the champion golfer of the tour and The Dunes Marg Wilson was the top lady. Ray Pain on his fourth tour was once again the centre of much fun and frivolity, quite often being mistaken as an Australian leprechaun! In October/November we are taking our 18th and 19th golf tours to Barnbougle Golf links in Tasmania followed by our 20th golf tour to New Zealand in March and are now delighted to announce our 21st tour to Ireland next September.
BADDELEY AND DAY FLY THE AUSSIE FLAG
Aaron Baddeley went within one shot of winning the biggest prize in US golf on Sunday at Eastlake Golf Club in the FedEx Cup. The Tour Championship culminates the official US Tour season which began with over 200 professionals pruned down to the top 30 at Eastlake. American Bill Haas won in a playoff with Hunter Mahan after playing one of golf's best ever shots out of water to a foot on the second playoff hole. Haas took home $1.5 mil for his win plus a further $10mil for winning the overall FedEx Cup. Aaron Baddeley missed putts on the last three holes that would have put him into the playoff. Jason Day had a putt on the last hole to make the playoff also but three putted after charging the hole. Adam Scott was in contention for the first 36 holes but dropped back to still finish top 10. All three players plus Geoff Ogilvy should now make the Presidents Cup against the US in November with Robert Allenby also a chance to make the team to be captained by Greg Norman at Royal Melbourne.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Lots of good scores this week to report for the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week. Six players recorded seven better than their handicaps including Riverside's Ollie Asmanis, Russell Gibson and Anne Parker who were all equalled by Maria Rogers, Ken Forster and Vince Dichiera at Coomealla. Ray Cottle was eight up at Riverside one behind Andrew Hill who had a career best 72/63 only to lose out to Wentworth's Jean Riley who once again proved to be the girl most likely with 45 points. Jean can collect her prize of four laminated print placemats of the beautiful 18th hole of Wentworth Golf Club from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with any golfing information or opinions at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

8/9/11

PETER BENCE, TV DIRECTOR,CHAMPION RUNNER - COOMEALLA SENIORS CHAMPION
Peter Bence from Kingswood Golf Club is the 2011 Coomealla Senior Champion after he won in a four man playoff at Coomealla on Wednesday after rounds of 73-82-80-235. Bence was the overnight leader on Monday after an impressive 73 that included 17 pars, one bogey and ultimately, was the low round of the tournament. On Tuesday he again started confidently, walking to the 12th tee only one over the card. In the last seven holes of his round he began to disintegrate dropping nine shots to finish with an 82. Meanwhile 2010 champion Allan Bullas was quietly chipping away after a 76 on Monday then a 78 on Tuesday left him one shot in front of the chasing pack. Bence was in second place one shot ahead of Eastwood's Chris Blythman with Chirnside Park's Ray Walker three behind. Colac golfer Greg Welsh was four shots off the pace but still in contention on the tough Coomealla layout. The seeded group hit off and disaster struck on the par 5 second hole for Bence after he carded an eight. All four players were struggling but Bence dug deep fighting back to turn in 38 and hold a commanding four stroke lead by the 11th hole. The last eight holes were a roller coaster with Welsh, who was playing in the group ahead emerging as the one to beat after he returned a 77 for a three round total of 235. Bullas self destructed with his putter completely going on strike as he fell out of contention on the last four holes. Both Walker and Blythman had chances to secure a victory but it wasn't to be. In the playoff Walker was the first to drop out after a bogey on the 10th. Welsh and Blythman were next to fall to bogey as Bence threw his arms up in victory when his par putt dropped on the par 3 eleventh to signal his first win on the Senior circuit in six years of trying. Peter Bence has rubbed shoulders with all of the big names in sport over the years. He began his working life as a stagehand at channel 7 in Melbourne, graduated to cameraman then eventually as a Television director. His happiest memories were working on the famous Sunday morning World of Sport with Ron Casey, Lou Richards and Jack Dyer where he was the director for the last six years of the show. Other shows he worked on included The Price is Right, Australian Masters at Huntingdale Golf Club, Australian Open Tennis, Melbourne Cup and of course the AFL football and several grand finals. Bence, a non smoker and drinker is also a fitness fanatic and won the 1500 metres gold medal at the 2010 Australian Masters games in the 60-64 age group and was second this year. Currently he is a replay director on the One Asia Golf Tour and travels around Asia when his senior golf commitments allow. A side light of seniors circuit is that Bence is the unofficial "interest" holder and as such calculates the chances of any of the players who like to have an interest on the events outcomes. Suffice to say that four of the other top contenders were showing much interest in the finish of the event but not as much as Peter Bence! On Wednesday he said "This is my third time at Coomealla. I really love the golf course. There is no better course in the country, although Horsham and Shepparton go close. I have finished second twice in the Seniors but to finally win on such a great golf course really is a big thrill". Leading local Sunraysia golfer was John Keogh who finished three shots behind after rounds of 81-80-77-238. The next event on the Seniors circuit is the Northern Open on October 3rd followed by the Horsham Open on October 6th.

6/9/11

NORTH WEST WOMEN ARE THE BEST
North West Women's Golf (Sunraysia) won division three at the annual Country Teams championships in Melbourne last week. It is the first time since 1985 that the team has won it's division after trying and failing valiantly with limited resources in recent years. Last year the ladies struggled losing to Bendigo who had been demoted from division two the previous year. Bendigo went on to win the division and carried on that form to win division two this year. From day one this year the NWWG team were on song after winning 6.5/.5 in the first encounter against Kara Kara. On day two they defeated arch rivals Northern (Swan Hill ) 6/1 after having accounted for Wimmera 6/1. Wednesday's contest against West Gippsland was always destined to be the big test, after years of failing against the top teams in the division. Michelle Bowdidge and Nycole Rirodan maintained their unbeaten record in the championships as did Fran Richards who played three games but was the difference on Wednesday. With four holes remaining she was three down and looking beaten but in an amazing turnaround she fought back to win one up. The other winner on the day was Rhonda Young who struggled in the first two matches but played terrific matchplay golf in the last two contests. Sue Laird at number one and Michelle Philp at number two were solid contributors against top quality opposition and Dora Stewart played a significant part in the teams success. The team was capably led by team manager Sue Walmsley who did a power of work behind the scenes. Sue gets very immersed in her planning, then conveying her message to the team, hence her nickname by the girls is "Willis" (what you talking about Willis?) Sue's constant message to the team is "We are a team first, team second and team third". There is no i in team and the girls stuck together to achieve their goal. There is no greater feeling in golf than to be part of a winning matchplay team, particularly when it is representing your district. The caddies also played a huge part in the teams success including Lisa Garioch, Mandy Bothroyd, Janet Luke and Sonja Golitschenko. Next year division two will be an even bigger challenge and new players will have to emerge to further strengthen the team. District golf is about to change in the next few years, with forward thinking it should be an exciting time to be involved in Sunraysia golf. With people like Sue Walmsley showing the way, the only way is up. Well done Sue and all of your team.
GREG RHODES - THE LEGEND CONTINUES
Greg Rhodes won the Mildura Golf Club Resort club championship for the 15th time on Saturday after recording rounds of 70-73-72-74-289. Runner up was Cameron Stewart who had 73-72-70-77-292. Ryan Laird was third after rounds of 72-75-76-76-299. The blustery conditions on Saturday did not encourage low scoring with some of the tough pin positions adding to the difficulty of the course. Rhodes is such a fierce competitor. He loves the game but really enjoys the cut and thrust of the competition and appreciates his opponents good play. It is not uncommon to hear him encouraging his playing partners, something that most wouldn't do in the heat of battle. It is amazing how he maintains his desire to win and be the best he can be, year after year, championship after championship. Cameron Stewart would probably the club champion at most other district golf clubs but that man Rhodes is his nemesis. Stewart will win this championship if he can overcome Rhodes, playing head to head. It is as simple and as difficult as that. Ryan Laird has worked hard on his golfing progress but would be disappointed with his scores after the first round. He has the talent but it takes more than just talent to succeed at the top level, hopefully he will take the next step soon if that is what he really wants to do.
COOMEALLA SENIORS CHAMPIONSHIP WIDE OPEN
The scene is set today for real dog fight in the final round of the 2011 Coomealla Senior Championship. Commonwealth's Allan Bullas who is defending his 2010 title, is one shot clear of Kingswood's Peter Bence with Eastwood's Chris Blythman one shot back in third and Chirnside Park's Ray Walker fourth. Wayne Aigner from Narooma, Anthony Hyde from Rossdale, Greg Welsh from Colac and John Payne from Yarrawonga are all only four shots off the lead. Any one of the top eight players could come through today and win the title. Peter Bence surprised everyone on Monday when he had 17 pars and one bogey to lead by two shots from Bullas and 2010 third place getter Ray Walker in near perfect conditions. Yesterday though, the wind blew and the greens were cut just a little bit faster which made scoring more difficult. Chris Blythman's 76 was the best round of the day ahead of Bullas who had 78 with four players coming in with 79's. Bullas is the man to beat but Ray Walker is his biggest danger. John Keogh is the leading local seven shots off the pace but Alan Scorer, John Thomson and Peter Duscher are all in front in the lower grades. Coomealla once again has been lauded for it's condition and tournament organization which augers well for future tournaments on the Mighty Murray's premier golf course.
SIX AUSSIES STILL IN FedEx CUP
With two tournaments left to decide the winner of the 10 million dollar first prize in the FedEx Cup remaining, six Aussies remain in contention. On Sunday little known American golfers Webb Simpson and Chez Reavie fought out a playoff in the Deutsche Bank Championship with Simpson emerging the winner. Next week the BMW Championship in Chicago will host the remaining top 70 players left in the playoffs. The Aussie contingent still in contention are Jason Day, Adam Scott, Robert Allenby, Geoff Ogilvy, Aaron Baddeley and Mark Leishman. Jason Day finished equal third on Sunday in Massachusetts whilst Adam Scott finished equal eighth after putting again let him down. The last two tournaments will determine who will make the Presidents Cup teams for the US and the Internationals at Royal Melbourne in November. Adam Scott, Jason Day and Geoff Ogilvy look to be assured of places in the team but Aaron Baddeley and Robert Allenby will need to play well in the next two tournaments to force their way into the team. Four South Africans are assured places on the team including Ernie Els, Charl Schwartzel, Louis Oosthuizen and Reteif Goosen.
THOMAS BJORN GOES BACK TO BACK IN THE MOUNTAINS
Denmarks Thomas Bjorn won the Omega European Masters on Sunday after winning the Johnny Walker Championship in Scotland the week before. Bjorn was a vice captain the Ryder Cup last year along with Ireland's Darren Clarke which usually signals that as a player they are seen to be too old or not up to top class competition. 40 year old Bjorn is proof that in golf, life does begin at 40 as he moves into the top 25 on world rankings. In his last eight rounds he is 31 under par and became the oldest ever player on the European Tour to win back to back tour events. Germany's Martin Kaymer (-16) finished second four shots back with Rory McIlroy (-15) and Lee Westwood (-14) trailing in Byorn's wake. The Race To Dubai is on in earnest with only a few tournaments left before the big finallee in Dubai.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The scores this week were blistering red hot with Riverside's Ernie Bennett and Mildura's Ernie Tyrell both seven better than handicap. Wentworth's Mark Lyall was eight better on Saturday along with Club President Keith Plan being nine better with 45 points. Fred Campbell and Greg Lee were 10 up on handicap in sterling performances but this weeks Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week goes to Mark Lyall who had an amazing 49 points on Sunday backing up from the day before. Mark wins four laminated placemats of Wentworth Golf Clubs 18th hole which must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

31/8/11

NORTH WEST WOMEN ON TOP AT COUNTRY TEAMS
Sunraysia ladies golf is riding a wave of euphoria in Melbourne at the annual Country Teams districts championships. So far our ladies have won 6.5/.5 against Kara Kara at Melton Valley Golf Club, 5/2 against Wimmera and 6/1 against arch rival Norther District (Swan Hill) at Northern Golf Club. Whilst everyone in the team has played well the undoubted stars have been Eily Raeck, Nycole Riordan, Michelle Bowdige and Michelle Fumberger who have all had three wins. Sue Laird has won two out of three contests at number one and Dora Stewart has also won twice. Mildura's Rhonda Young struggled in the first two games for a half and a loss but played really well to win 4/2 against Northern yesterday afternoon. Today our girls face the formidable team of West Gippsland who look far too strong on paper. Fortunately the game is played on grass at Medway Golf Club, so our girls who only have to halve West Gippsland 3.5/3.5 to win the division will be hell bent to bring home the division three trophy and move up to second division next year.
RHODES VERSUS STEWART AT MILDURA
The 2011 Mildura Golf Club Resort club championship will be a ding dong battle in the last round this Saturday between Greg Rhodes and Cameron Stewart. Rhodes has recorded rounds of 70-73-72 matching Stewart's form of 73-72-70. Rhodes took a three shot lead into the second round but Stewart whittled it back to one and then equalled Rhodes low first round on Sunday. Head to head Stewart has struggled playing against Rhodes in the past but the more times he goes to the well, the more chance he is of taking that next step. The key for Stewart will be to get off to a good start and put the pressure on early. Whilst Rhodes is without doubt the red hot favourite, this championship is a little bit different as in the past Stewart has led then been overtaken. This time he was behind and has clawed his way back onto even terms. If Rhodes were to win it would be further confirmation of the champion that he is but if Stewart were to overcome his nerves and rise to the occasion it would be wonderful for him, his family and Sunraysia golf. Good luck to both and may the better man on the day win.
BULLAS TO DEFEND AT COOMEALLA SENIORS CHAMPIONSHIP
The fourth annual Coomealla Seniors Championship hits off at Coomealla Golf Club on Monday where 2010 champion Allan Bullas from Commonwealth Golf Club will defend his title. Bullas has not been as consistent form wise, this year but he should be in the last group come Wednesday. Mt Gambier's John Beaumont hasn't played many senior events of late but he is a real top liner and comes in as the number two seed. Other top liners who are sure to be in contention are the National Golf Club's John Wheeler and Paul Lulofs along with Yarra Yarra's Guy Krall. Ray Walker from Chirnside Park is the low marker on a two handicap, his third placing last year puts him in contention alongside Sunraysia's top chance in Robert Veit. Several places are still available in the tournament for both men and women over 55. Cost of entry is $90 for the men which includes 54 holes and a presentation dinner and $70 for the ladies including 36 holes and the presentation dinner. Phone 50 274658 today to secure your spot in the field.
VICTORIAN OPENS MIXED THIS YEAR The Victorian Open will be played as a mixed event this year with the men's and women's championships being played simultaneously for their own separate Victorian Open titles. Spring Valley Golf Club will host the events with the men playing their traditional 72 hole format and the women 54 holes from Friday January 6th to Sunday 8th. The women will play their first 18 holes at Woodlands Golf club then transfer to Spring Valley for the weekend 36 holes. Identical purses of a minimum $125,000 will be on offer for both titles. FedEx PLAYOFFS CONTINUE THIS WEEK IN THE DEUTSCHE BANK CHAMPIONSHIP The first playoff round for the FedEx Cup was played in New York for the Barclays championship. Hurricane Irene blew them all away at the weekend and the tournament came to a halt after three rounds. American Dustin Johnson was left in front to claim the trophy, two shots clear of Matt Kuchar with Jason Day and Aaron Baddeley seven shots back. Three more tournaments will decide who wins the FedEx Cup with the next round being in Boston Massachettus on September 2.
FIVE HOLE - FIVE MAN PLAYOFF IN THE JOHNNY WALKER CHAMPIONSHIP AT GLENEAGLES The Johnny Walker championship at Gleneagles in Scotland finished up with a five man playoff that went for an additional five holes adding a further 90 minutes to the days play. In the finish Denmark's Thomas Bjorn birdied the 18th three times to outlast South African George Coetzee. After watching the tournament for four nights we can hardly wait till when we tee it up at Gleneagles King's course on October 11 to commence our Sunraysia Golf Tours 2011 Scotland/Ireland Golf Tour. This week the European Tour heads into the mountains to Crans-sur-sierre for the Omega European Masters where all the big names in European golf will be on show including Lee Westwood, Darren Clarke, Rory McIlroy, Martin Kaymer, Louis Oosthuiven and Thomas Bjorn.
2 MARSH'S HOLE IN ONE AT BARNBOUGLE DUNES
Former Australian cricketer Rod Marsh and his son Dan took time to have a game of golf at Barnbougle Dunes sister course Lost Farm last week with ex Brisbane Lion Alistair Lynch. Son Dan recorded a hole in one which was a big thrill for all in the group. Not to be out done Marsh senior then promptly holed in one on a par four, giving him a rare albatross or as they say in the US, a double eagle. Having already played Lost Farm in March we are really looking forward to hosting tours there in October (men) and November (ladies).
THIS LOOKS LIKE YOURS!! Brandon staggered into a hospital emergency room, badly battered and bruised. A nurse and a doctor rushed over to help him to an examining room. "How did you receive these injuries?" the doctor asked. "I was playing golf with my wife," Brandon replied. The doctor was incredulous. "How could you possibly have been injured this severely playing golf with your wife?" he asked. Brandon explained what happened. He and his wife both hit their tee shots on the first hole off line. "I hooked mine into the woods, left," Brandon said, "while my wife hit a huge slice that flew into a cow pasture on the right side of the hole." After Brandon found his ball and hit it back into the fairway, he explained, he went to help his wife locate her tee shot. "I was walking around amongst the cows," Brandon explained, "when I spotted something white on the backside of a heifer. I went over to it and lifted its tail, and sure enough, my wife's ball had lodged right in the heifer's posterior! "So I pointed at the heifer's backside and yelled over to my wife, 'Hey, honey, this looks like yours".
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Lots of great golf played across Sunraysia this week. Greg Rhodes, Cameron Stewart, Craig Tung and Phillip Lawn all scoring par or better off the stick. The Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week however, is awarded to the best score against handicap and there were five nominations this week. Bruce McEwan at Mildura, Jim Aitken at Riverside and Phil Lawn at Wentworth were all seven better than handicap. At Merbein Frank Crouch was eight better but out at Red Cliffs Debbie Hassell took the spotlight from her high calibre sporting family with a net 62. Deb wins four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's lovely golf courses that features the excellent artwork of Broken Hill artist Mick Andrich which must be collect by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura.Contact me with any golf information or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

25/8/11

RHODES IN CONTROL IN MILDURA CHAMPIONSHIPS
Greg Rhodes is the familiar name at the top of the leaderboard of the 2011 Mildura Golf Club Resort club championships. Rhodes shot a two under par 70 on Saturday to lead from Ryan Laird on 72. Laird has worked feverishly on his golf over the last few years and this championship presents him with a great opportunity to test himself against the very best player in North West Victoria. Cameron Stewart is well placed on 73 and will be looking to stay with the master this weekend when rounds two and three are played. Shay Toma played with Rhodes on Saturday and returned his best score for the year in championship conditions. The junior championship rests between Laird and Toma but it is the big one that they will be shooting for. Of the others Wayne Manley and John Keogh played well for 76's but 2010 champion Andrew Stewart struggled with a 77. Greg Rhodes is once again looking like the man as he pursues his 15th Mildura Golf Club resort Club Championship title. The final round will be on Saturday September 3.
2011 PACIFIC GOLFER BEST BALL CHALLENGE
The inaugural 2011 Golfer Pacific Best Ball Challenge qualifying round will be staged at Coomealla Golf Club on Saturday. This is a terrific event where the winning pair (two pairs to qualify if field 90 players or more, to date 72 players entered) will go on to represent Sunraysia in the Victorian regional final at Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club in Melbourne on September 18. Interestingly there are not a huge number of Victorian clubs involved and only NSW, Queensland, Victoria and New Zealand golf clubs are registered. The winners at Coomealla will have a good opportunity of going on to the final at Coolangatta Tweed Heads on October 17 and compete against golfers from NSW, Queensland and New Zealand where a major prize draw will distribute $120,000 worth of prizes. The aggregate handicap of each pair must not exceed 45 which leaves great scope for some really good combinations. Cost of entry is only $35 per player with each player receiving 3 Taylor Made Penta golf balls (retail value $20) and a share of $1400 worth of Taylor Made prizes for the winners. For further information phone the Coomealla golf club on 50 274658.
ROBINVALE BLOSSOM CLASSIC
It was a huge weekend in Robinvale at the weekend when the Robinvale Almond Blossom Festival was conducted at the Robinvale Golf Club for the first time. The festival is usually held in the almond orchards but this year it was decided to move it a bit closer to town. On Saturday 140 players played in the the inaugural Blossom Classic with Robinvale Golf Club manager Gary Dukes teaming up with Don McConnell to win the men's section with 47 points and Sue Walmsley and Michelle Philp winning the ladies with the same score. Golfers travelled from Red Cliffs, Mildura, Swan Hill, Ouyen and Nyah to compete for $6000 in prizes and trophies on a day enjoyed by all in attendance. Tournament organisers Nick Katis and Dale Kelly did a magnificent job raising almost $6000 which will be used for course improvements. On Sunday 2500 people fronted up for the annual festival which really put a smile on the faces of the organising committee. The weekend was yet another great example of a community coming together to celebrate and enjoy local produce, traditions and facilities in family friendly atmosphere. Robinvale has a proud history of producing great product, great sportsmen and women and indeed, some really great people. Well done.
WEEKEND AT BERNIE'S
Coomealla Golf club vice president Bernie's Sprague had an idea for a trip away playing golf with a few close friends in 1999 and decided to make it happen. Thirteen years later he is recovering from last weekend's most recent version of a "Weekend at Bernie's". Bernie hosted 23 of his closest golfing friend down to Barram and Cohuna where they loved the condition of both courses. Barram in particular was in fine fettle after the club had mown the greens for Bernie's group on Sunday morning. (The club obviously realised the importance of Bernie's group) On Saturday at Cohuna (Home course of PGA star Stuart Appleby) Peter Duscher and Tracey Hywood were the star performers in the single stroke event. Next year the weekend at Bernie's is headed for Deniliquin and Barram and on reports that I hear, with the growing popularity of the weekend, a bigger coach will be required. Good work Bernie, appreciation from all who attended, may it continue for years to come.
HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT....?
A husband and wife go to a counselor after 15 years of marriage. The counselor asks them what the problem is and the wife goes into a rage, listing every problem they had in the last 15 years they've
been married, and she goes on and on and on. Finally the counsellor gets up, goes around the desk, embraces the woman, and kisses her passionately. The woman shuts up and sits quietly in a daze.The
counsellor turns to the husband and says "That is what your wife needs at least 3 times a week, can you do that? "The husband says "I can bring her in Monday and Friday's, but on Wednesday's, I play golf!"
A man and his wife walked into a dentist's office. The man said to the dentist, "Doc, I'm in one heck of a hurry. I have two mates sitting outside in my car waiting for us to go play golf, so forget about the anaesthetic, I don't have time for the gums to get numb. I just want you to pull the tooth, and be done with it!! We have a 10am tee time and it's 9:30 already. The dentist thought to himself that this is surely a very brave man asking to have his tooth pulled without using anything to kill the pain. So the dentist asked him, "which tooth is it sir? The man turned to his wife and said, "Open your mouth love, and show him."
Three mates were sitting together after a round of golf discussing their days play. The first one began by saying, "I was three over today: One over a house, one over a patio and one over a swimming pool."
PRESIDENTS CUP
It's not long now to till the Presidents Cup at Royal Melbourne in November and there aren't many chances left for players to make sure of their selections in the teams. Listed below are the top 14 players in each team on points currently. Geoff Ogilvy, Robert Allenby and Aaron Baddeley will have to produce a good score to elevate themselves into the top 10. Both Captains _ Greg Norman and Fred Couples get two wild card picks to make up the 12 man teams. Naturally everyone is interested in seeing if Tiger Woods is a wild card selection.

USA Internationals
1 Steve Stricker Adam Scott
2 Matt Kuchar Jason Day
3 Phil Mickelson Charl Schwartzel
4 Nick Watney K.J. Choi
5 Dustin Johnson Kyung-tae Kim
6 Bubba Watson Retief Goosen
7 David Toms Ernie Els
8 Hunter Mahan Louis Oosthuizen
9 Bill Haas Y.E. Yang
10 Jim Furyk Ryo Ishikawa
11 Rickie Fowler Tim Clark* (Unavailable)
12 Bo Van Pelt Geoff Ogilvy
13 Brandt Snedeker Robert Allenby
14 Zach Johnson Aaron Baddeley
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The weather and great course conditions produced some terrific scores across the district vying for the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week. At Coomealla Brett Thurman was seven better than handicap as was Travis Johns at Red cliffs and Jamie Driscoll and Trent Smith at Riverside. Going one better at Riverside where the scoring has been tremendous were Col Robson, Graeme Fisher, John Fraser and Kevin Eastwood. This week's winner also came from Riverside where Marty Scott blitzed around the tack for a 63 net. Marty wins four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's beautiful golf courses that must be collected by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

17/8/11

LAIRD WINS NWWG CHAMPIONSHIP
Sue Laird is the 2011 North West Women's Golf champion after recording a creditable 79. Laird won by four strokes from Fran Richards with Michelle Bowdidge one shot further back. The win was Laird's second in the championship but adds to her already impressive record that includes two Murray Valley Championships, five Tri-State masters titles, seven Mildura Golf Club championships and five Coomealla Golf Club championships. Next tournament on her agenda is the Country Teams championship in Melbourne where NWWG will compete in division three. Yesterday she was excited with her win, " I am so pleased to win this championship for the second time. Usually Michelle (Fumberger) wins this event, so to win with her in the field was probably unexpected" Asked what she would like to try for next in her golf career she said, " I would like to play metropolitan pennant and see if I could compete at that level. Whether that opportunity arises, I am not sure. I will just have to wait and see". An excellent field of 70 players contested the championship at the Mildura Golf Club Resort which is more players than the corresponding SDGA men's tournament last month at Red Cliffs Golf Club.
RHODES AIMS AT 15TH MILDURA CHAMPIONSHIP
Greg Rhodes will tee it up at Mildura Golf club Resort on Saturday in search of his 15th victory in the club championship. Rhodes hasn't played in the championships for several years after transferring his membership to Coomealla. Earlier this year he decided to take up membership again at the club that he had previously represented for more than 20 years. Rhodes is in career best form this year after winning the Coomealla and Mildura Open's earlier in the year and the SDGA championship last month. Cameron Stewart appears to be the only other serious contender as Ashley Whitehouse is not planning to play all four rounds this year. Stewart was runner up last month in the Murray Valley Championship in Mildura Golf Week but seems to struggle in the last round of a championship, particularly if Rhodes is in contention. Last year his brother Andrew finally broke through for a meritorious victory but Cameron has yet to salute the judge. Cameron usually starts well and puts himself in contention early so it will be interesting to see what happens on Saturday. This year the championship will be conducted on August 20, 27, 28 and September 3rd.
WHO WILL BLOSSOM IN ROBINVALE?
The inaugural Robinvale Golf Club Blossom Classic will hit off on Saturday with two shot gun starts at 7-45 am and 12-45 pm. With over 50 pairs entered already it is sure to be a huge day for the club. Only space for 20 pairs remain in the afternoon block but there are plenty of spaces left in the morning. Prizes go down to 20th place in the men's and another 20 prizes in the ladies section. Overall winners will receive two flat screen television's and a Ford Fiesta valued at $20,000 is up for grabs for the first hole in one on the par 3 ninth hole. All entrants will receive a free gift pack each and free lunch. Raffles will be conducted at the conclusion of play with some fantastic prizes available. On monies raised will be put to good use on a pop up sprinkler system for the golf course. The golf course is returning to it's very best condition so, give the golf club a call on 50 263286 or enter at House of Golf 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura.
COOMEALLA SENIOR OPEN
The Coomealla Golf Club will conduct it's fifth 54 hole Senior Open from September 5-7. A ladies 36 hole event is incorporated within the tournament that has forged a fine reputation amongst the state's senior golfers in such a short time. Previous winners include Ross Percy, Pat Giles and Allan Bullas who will all be back this year to try and become the first dual winners of the championship. Coomealla is hoping to receive more support from the districts senior players this year to play with the 50-60 visiting players. Contact the pro shop on 50 274658 for more details.
IT HAPPENED ON THE COURSE
A recent golf club study found that the average club golfer walks 900 miles per year and that on average drinks 22 gallons of alcohol. That means the average golfer gets 41 miles to the gallon!
There is no such thing as a friendly wager!
The older I get, the better I used to be!
Nothing straightens out a nasty slice like a sharp dog leg to the right!
The less skilled the player, the more likely he is to share his ideas about the golf swing!
Don't play with anyone who would question a ten!
Never wash your ball on the tee of a water hole!
The less intelligent the player, the more certain he is to offer insights into the mental side of the game!
Advertisement in a golf magazine suggested "golfers wishing to end their frustrations, temper tantrums, mood swings and self esteem concerns should - give up golf forever and rest in peace!
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
There were plenty of good scores vying for the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week at four district golf clubs. At Mildura Joan Sloan, Kerry Dutton-Ashcroft and Geoff Hazeldine were all six under their handicaps. At Wentworth Aaron Shaw was on the same line along with Chris Thomas and Murray Wilson at Riverside and Jill Eyles at Red Cliffs. Moving up the board saw Alan Palmer at Riverside and Mark Lyall at Wentworth seven under their marks. The standout winner was Jeff Smith who had 45 points to be 9 under his handicap. Jeff wins four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's beautiful golf courses that must be collected from the House of Golf 347 Onrio Avenue Mildura by Friday.
Contact me with your golf information or opinion on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

10/8/11

LAIRD FAVOURED FOR NWWG CHAMPIONSHIP
The North West Women's Golf Inc will be conducting their 2011 championship at the Mildura Golf Club Resort next Tuesday. The tournament also includes the "Champions of Champions", which is the best score by one of the seven club champions. Sue Laird won both club championships at Coomealla and Mildura and is odds on to take this title as well as the district championship. Michelle Philp Robinvale is unable to play due to work commitments which also caused her to miss Golf Week last week. Other club champions who haven't entered as yet include Sally Jones Red Cliffs, Marg Lampard Riverside, Lee Bottomly Wentworth and Bev Cetinich Merbein. Laird's main competition for the championship will come from Michelle Bowdidge who lives in Renmark but is a member at Mildura. Bowdidge plays off 11 but is very young and improving all the time. Rhonda Yong who plays off 9 will also give good opposition on her home course. Fran Richards off 12 and Nycole Riordan are another two players who could feature if they play their very best golf. Entries close on Friday but district secretary Nycole Riordan would like to finalise the draw on Friday so as it can be featured in the Sunraysia Daily on Saturday. Ring 042724 7878 to be included in the draw.
SDGA MEDLEY AMBROSE AT COOMEALLA
Coomealla Golf Club will host the SDGA Medley Ambrose on Sunday. All monies raised will go to assist the cost of the Country Week team to Melbourne in October. All of the Country Week team will be in attendance and the SDGA is expecting an excellent field. There will be some great trophies on offer and both men and ladies are welcome to put in either men's, ladies or mixed teams. A sausage sizzle will commence at 11-30 followed by a shot gun start at 12-30. The Country Week team will be resplendent in complete new uniforms this year due to a fantastic sponsorship from the House of Golf Mildura supported by Sligo clothing. Entries for Sunday should be phoned through to the Coomealla pro shop on 50 274658.
FAVOURITE SUNRAYSIA GOLF HOLES
We had a great response to the favourite holes competition last week. The winning entry was an absolute standout from Coomealla golfer Matthew Pascoe who put a lot of thought into his favourite holes. This was his entry. Matt Pascoe, Coomealla Golf Club. I had a good think about this as there are so many good ones at Coomy. However, after due consideration I selected the 6th as my favourite. This hole is what I would class as a ?sleeper? hole. It is not long and is rated fairly high on the course index. But, when you stand on the tee you are presented with 3 options for your opening drive. There is a very well placed fairway bunker on the left of the fairway that presents this first challenge. This is also complimented by large gum trees on the right side of the fairway which encroach onto the playing line of the hole and which have to be avoided. So, the options are, you can pull out the driver and try and blast one over the bunker, you can take a 3 wood and shape the ball from left to right around the trees or you can take an iron and lay up. Your second shot into the green is then taken from 100m in and is a delicate pitch onto a green guarded by bunkers on the front left and right of the green. The real trick here is that from the middle to back of the green it slopes away from the player and many a good shot has been seen to run off the back into some tricky greenside rough. From a scenic point of view, when hitting into the green it has a stunning backdrop of river gums and it feels like you are hitting from an elevated position down onto the green. For my favourite hole on another district golf course it was a tough decision on this one and you may think my choice is a little strange. After due consideration, my favourite district hole is the 17th at Merbein. I?ve always been a fan of the risk/reward concept for golf holes. The 17th plays that way if you are prepared to take it on. The hole is a par 4 right to left dog leg. Standing on the tee, you can aim directly at the green which means taking on the Mallee trees that protect the left of the green. A good hit will see you on the green in 1, but should you hit trees the scorecard can get ugly real quick. If you play safe, you are left with a short pitch onto a green that has sloping run off on all sides. This is a great hole if you are in need of a birdie or better to try and catch the leaders!!!
Matthew wins a 12 month membership to the Sunraysia Golf Range valued at $99 and a half hour lesson with AGTF teaching professional Garth Doherty valued at $40. By the way,Garth had a hole in one on Coomealla's par 3 18th in the club competition last Wednesday so I am guessing that may now be his favourite hole!
GREAT SCOTT IN OHIO - WESTWOOD FOR THE PGA
Adam Scott is the man most likely once again after his win on Sunday in the Bridgestone Invitational. Scott has been lauded as the next Greg Norman for years and although he has had a good career, he has probably underachieved for the talent that he has. Two things that look to have him back on track are a new caddie in Steve Williams and a new broomstick putter. Scott virtually led from start to finish, in America they call that "coast to coast'". This week the US PGA is the last of the four Majors that hit off at the Atlanta Athletic Club where they have two 18 golf courses one 9 hole course, tennis courts and a full length Olympic sizes pool. Dustin Johnson lost this championship in controversial circumstances last year when he was penalised for grounding his club in a bunker that just looked like sandy rough. If an American is to win I hope it is him. The Americans are desperate for one of their own to win a major, so far this year Charl Schwartzel South Africa, Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke Northern Ireland have landed the big ones. Oddly enough they are all managed by Chubby Chandler, so if one of his clients win this week it will be a Chubby grand slam. It is 20 years since John Daly emerged onto the scene when he won the 1991 PGA at Crooked Stick, what a career and story he has been since then. If Adam Scott were to win this week he would be the first ever major winner to win using a broomstick putter. There are lots of arguments for and against the broomstick putters but if works for you, "stick with it baby", as they say in the classics. My top three picks this week are Lee Westwood, Luke Donald and Dusin Johnson. Top Aussie Jon Senden.
NEW ZEALAND GOLF TOUR/7
Sunraysia Golf Tours will be taking our seventh golf tour to New Zealand On March 16 2012. This will be another fantastic golfing holiday including the very best on both Islands, golfing wise and touring wise. Places we will visit include Auckland, Taupo, Bay of Islands, Arrowtown and Queenstown. Golfing highlights will include the world famous Kauri Cliffs, Carrington Club, Milbrook International Resort, Jacks Point, Kinloch and the Waireiki International Resort. March is the best month of the year to visit New Zealand, so if you haven't been to New Zealand before and you love great scenery, fantastic golf courses and good company, then give us a call on 50 246799 or Kym on 0408310532. Our motto is "It's always nice to meet nice people and that memories live longer than dreams".
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Scores were higher around the district last week with the cooler weather and faster greens. Three players bettered their handicaps by five strokes including Jack Thomas at Riverside, Terry Fitzpatrick at Merbein and Marg Midgley at Coomealla. Phillip Webster at Mildura and course curator Brendan Marr at Riverside were six better than handicap but not quite good enough. The winner of the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week is Gary Stephens who had a net 64 at Wentworth on Saturday. Gary wins four laminated placemats featuring Sunraysia's beautiful golf courses that must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with your golf information or opinion at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

3/8/11

ANTHONY HOUSTON - MURRAY VALLEY CHAMPIONSHIP LEADER
Kingswood golfer Anthony Houston 67-72 is the 36 hole leader in the 2011 Murray Valley Championship from his club mate Ashley Blake 68-74. Houston scorched around the Red Cliffs course five under par for a 67. Houston and Blake were members of the winning division one VGA Pennant this year, avenging their 2010 loss to Waverly. Houston found Coomealla a bit tougher and tighter to negotiate but came in with an even par round of 72. Yesterday he said " On Monday I hit it closer to the pins and gave myself more birdie chances. An eagle on 16 got me to five under which I was happy with. At Coomealla it was a bit more of a struggle. It really is an awesome golf course. I was happy in the finish with two birdies and two bogies" Houston is hoping to gain a VIS scholarship next year and work on his game with additional coaching. He hopes to play in some overseas amateur tournaments as well as all of our top Australian amateur tournaments. At only 19 he realises that hard work is the key to success as a golfer. Ashley Blake has similar ambitions to Houston and is keen to " Get super fit in the next six months and work hard on my skills" Blake turns 19 today. Melton Valley's Luke Hickman has battled hard for 74-79 and is another hopeful of scaling the golfing ladder of success, he plans to go down a different path and do a professional traineeship in 2012. Cameron Stewart 72-73 is once again our leading local but six shots is a lot over two rounds against such strong opposition.Round three commences at Riverside this morning at 8am. Coomealla's Sue Laird 82 is the leader after round one of the ladies championship at Red Cliffs yesterday. Laird won the title in 2009 and looks to have a mortgage on this years championship. Queens Park's Louise Watach is only two strokes behind and is Laird's nearest rival. Today's round is at Mildura Golf Club Resort. This year rhe entries in both championship divisions are down on last year with only 39 in the A grade men and less than half that number in the ladies section. It is a far cry from the big fields of the 70's and 80's.
NWWG Inc COUNTRY TEAM
The North West Women's Golf Country Team was announced yesterday. Team manager again this year is Sue Walmsley. The team is Michelle Philp Robinvale, Sue Laird, Nycole Riordan, Mandy Bothroyd, Margaret Baird, Sonya Golitschenko,Dora Stewart, Jodene Tuau, Coomealla, Michelle Bowdidge, Fran Richards, Rhonda Young, Mildura. Caddies this year will be Fiona Turlan,Lisa Garioch, Janet Luke, Riverside and Fran Sette Mildura. The Country Teams championships will be played at Melton Valley, Northern and Medway Golf Clubs from 29th - 31st August. The team has worked hard throughout the year to cover the expense of the trip through BBQ's at Bunnings, golf days and raffles. The joint effort by the girls ensures a strong team spirit and bond that is so important in any team that has to rely on one another's efforts.
MARCUS GUTHRIE TAKES OVER AT MILDURA GOLF CLUB RESORT
Mildura Golf Club Resort have appointed a new general manager following the sudden departure of Gordon Gower who has taken up a position on the Gold Coast. Marcus Guthrie has returned to Mildura after an impressive career in senior management for the last twelve years that has taken him to faraway places such as Hayman Island, the Caribbean and the Seychelles. Marcus was involved in the redevelopment of two three star resorts in the Maldives that were completely rebuilt and upgraded to five star facilities. Golf management first occurred on a company resort in the Seychelles at the resort golf course, he has also had experience with a European Seniors championship that is conducted annually on another resort championship golf course in Mauritius. It certainly is a coup for the Mildura Golf Club Resort to be able to secure someone of Guthrie's calibre to continue the development and improvement of the resort complex and the land sub division which is due to commence soon. Yesterday on his second day he was still settling into his new position but was already looking to the future when he spoke of his vision for the Mildura Golf Club Resort " I am looking forward to assisting with the five to ten year strategic plan to continue the great work already in place. My goal is to eventually elevate the Mildura Golf Club Resort to become the number one golf resort in the region. I believe I have arrived at an exciting time for the resort, our members and guests" An important factor in returning to Mildura is to bring up his young family in his home town. " I began playing golf at Mildura as an eight year old and am looking forward to my boys playing here in the future. We have two young boys under two years of age and it is great being back in Mildura near mum and dad and my extended family" he said. Clearly there are exciting times ahead for the Mildura Golf Club Resort and Marcus Guthrie looks to be an excellent choice to take the club to the next level in it's continued development.
YOUR FAVOURITE SUNRAYSIA GOLF HOLES
Golfers are an interesting breed who always remember different things about their best rounds, many of whom have superstitions about favourite clothing, towels, ball markers and a host of other golfing accessories that accompany them on their golfing exploits. In Sunraysia we are fortunate to have such an array of fine golf courses to choose from. Playing at different clubs with the local members it is always enlightening to listen to what likes and dislike the local members have at their own and other golf courses. I invite you to let us know what your favourite hole is at your golf club? Following on from that, which is your favourite hole in the district at another club? My club is Coomealla and my favourite hole is the delightful par four 16th. This hole sets up as a very slight left to right dogleg with a medium size green surrounded by three bunkers and is a fair test to players of all levels Favourite holes on other local courses include Riverside's par 3 18th which has to be the best closing hole in the district. Other favourites include Red Cliffs par 4 18th which is a lovely hole that has a really tough green to negotiate. Merbein's par 4 11th is a nice gentle right to left dogleg where par is always a good score. Mildura has some great holes but I really enjoy their closing four holes with the par 4 16th a really good test. Wentworth has some terrific par 3's with the pick of them being the 2nd which is surrounded by water. Finally Robinvale's par 5 15th is a standout on one of our district's best golf courses. Let me know what you regard as your favourite hole and favourite hole at another district course, the best entry will receive a 12 month membership to the Sunraysia Golf Range and a half hour lesson with AGTF teaching professional Garth Doherty. Send entries to the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave Mildura or Email to golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
TIGER BACK IN TOWN - AUSTRALIAN OPEN/PRESIDENTS CUP
The big news in world golf this week is that after an eleven week hiatus, Tiger Woods is back playing in the World Golf Championship Bridgestone Invitational at the Firestone Country Club in Akron Ohio. It is not hard to work out why he chose this tournament to relaunch his career as he has won there seven times. If Woods can find form over the next two months it will create an even greater explosion of interest in the Australian Open at The Lakes Golf Club in Sydney from November 10-13, followed by the Presidents Cup at Royal Melbourne from November 14-20. The New South Wales government have stepped in to secure Woods who chose the Australian Masters in Melbourne over the Australian Open in Sydney in 2009-2010. Both governments understand the huge economic benefits that Woods and the promotion of significant golf events can deliver to the States economy. The NSW government has recently established Destination NSW as a statutory authority to market and promote NSW as a tourism and major events destination. Whilst one upmanship with major events is a political reality, the governments and major events arms have obviously identified that the far reaching commercial, awareness and exposure benefits, extend far beyond the fairways. November/December is sure to have the rest of the world's golfing eyes and attention, all focused on Australian golf, its courses, cities and life style.
WORLD RANKINGS
Men:1 Luke Donald 2 Lee Westwood 3 Martin Kaymer 4 Steve Stricker 5 Rory McIlroy 6 Phil Mickelson 7 Dustin Johnson 8 Jason Day 9 Nick Watney 10 Charl Schwartzel 28 Tiger Woods
Ladies:1Yani Tseng 2Christie Kerr 3Suzann Pettersen 4Jiyai Shin5 Na Yeon Choi 6 I. K. Kim 7 Ai Miyazato 8 Sun Ju Ahu 9 Paula Creamer 10 Karrie Webb
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This week all clubs reported good fields with tough playing conditions, especially for the morning players. Good scores came from Ron Hall and Dale Meridith at Riverside and Joy Carr at Wentworth who all had 42 points. Lucy Doering and Phil Matotek pushed the flag to the limit in the Alf Sylvia day at Merbein and Alan Connolly almost got the nod at Riverside with 43 points. The winner of the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week is former Wentworth Golf Club captain Will Ryan who does everything in a big but quiet way. Will has been in a purple patch of form at Coomealla recently, 44 points last Wednesday was enough to afford him the best round of the week. Will can collect his prize of four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's beautiful golf courses from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave by Friday.
Contact me with any golfing information or opinions at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

27/7/11

GREG RHODES WINS 15TH SDGA CHAMPIONSHIP
Coomealla Golf Club's Greg Rhodes won his 15th Sunraysia District Golf Association championship at Red Cliffs on Sunday. Rhodes has not fared well in the district championship in the last five years, 2008 was his last win at Coomealla, but he had won thirteen times between 1977 and 2005. The way to favour the very best player is to set the course up as hard as it can possibly be set up and Rhodes certainly took advantage of the severe test that was presented at Red Cliffs. Red Cliffs golf course is the second longest golf course locally, only Coomealla is longer and the greens vary in size, elevation and speed. On Saturday Rhodes was at his very best shooting seven birdies, eight pars and three bogey's. Putting often lets Greg down but on Saturday he was on fire and got almost everything he looked at with his putter. This, from a man who quite often on a normal Saturday competition, resorts to putting with his driver! Rhodes led Ashley Whitehouse by six strokes on a course that was set up for scratch marker golfers or better. On Sunday a one under par 71 gave Rhodes a ten shot victory over Jacob Slimmon who had played in the morning and finished with 76-73. Whitehouse was third with 74-77, Tim Peterson was fourth with 75-77 from Tim Walker who had 77-76. The Red Cliffs greenkeeper Simon Newey has had his work cut out since he took up the position after transferring from Wentworth Golf Club. The course has suffered more than any other in the district, first from drought, then from excessive rain. Simon has done an excellent job during his tenure so far and the course is improving as each week goes by. One area that he has come in for continued criticism however, is his choice of pin placements for major tournaments, this was again the case at the weekend. It is unusual for Greg Rhodes to voice any concern over pin placements but Rhodes echoed the opinions of nearly all of the other competitors including the SDGA officials during his victory speech. The way most big tournaments are conducted is that the captain or district official in charge of the tournament consults with the greenkeeper to establish the best pin positions for the two days of the tournament. The usually achieves the best outcome and takes away the responsibility or blame for unpopular or unfair pin positions from the greenkeeper. Last year at Mildura Golf Club Resort the pins were left in the same positions for both days, this year some of the pins were in ridiculous spots that more than tested the districts very best players. Is it any wonder then that only 64 players played last year and only 51 this year? This is our district's premier event for local competition players and only ten per cent of the districts regular competition players have been fronting up over the last few years. Red Cliffs were disappointed with the field but only 11 of their members played both days which reflects the apathy that is shown for the event by other clubs members.
TOP 10 SCRATCH & HANDICAP - SDGA CHAMPIONSHIP
1. Greg Rhodes 139, 2 Jacob Slimmon 149, 3 Ash Whitehouse 151, 4 Tim Peterson 152, 5 Tim Walker 153, 6 Justin McPhee, Andyn Stewart 155, 7 Sean Baumgurtel 156, 8 Chris Thomas, David Filippi 162, 10 Paul Dominelli 163. 11 Robert Veit, 164.
1.Greg Rhodes 139, 2 Ray Stone 143, 3 Peter Dooley 145, 4 David Filippi 146, 5 Tim Peterson 146, 7 Darren Mannix 147, 8 Andrew Stewart, Andrew Hill, Jacob Slimmon 149.
SUNRAYSIA COUNTRY WEEK TEAM
The Sunraysia Country Week team to play in Melbourne in October was announced at Red Cliffs on Sunday. Our chaps have performed so well over the last four years and will be keen to continue in division one. The team is Captain Justin McPhee, Tim Walker Red Cliffs, Tim Peterson, Jacob Slimmon, Sean Baumgurtel, Ryan Laird, Coomealla, Ashley Whitehouse, Cameron Stewart, Andrew Stewart, Mildura, Robert Veit Riverside. Last year the team went within a whisker of winning the division one title. Tim Peterson comes back into the team after a year off playing football which will offset the loss of Jake Laubsch who played brilliantly in Melbourne last year. Sean Baumgurtel also comes into the team replacing Leigh Fuller who has retired from active duty. Robert Veit makes a return to the team after fourteen years. Veit has arguably been the districts number two player historically behind Rhodes in the last 40 years. He last played Country Week in 1997 and is no doubt a surprise inclusion, given his age and back problems that restrict the continual golf that is required at Country Week. There is no doubt that on performances in Opens and pennant this year that his form has warranted selection but, perhaps one of the up and coming youngsters might have been a wiser choice with a view to the future. Maybe two of those boys may be chosen to accompany the team as caddies which gives the selectors more options if that is required.
DISTRICT JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Sunraysia Junior District championships will be conducted at Coomealla Golf Club over 36 holes on September 18. On Monday night the SDGA made the decision that all players who were 17 years of age or under on the 1st of January this year will be eligible to play and win. This means that Tim Walker and Tyler Verbeek who both turn 18 before September 18 will be eligible. This is a common sense decision by the SDGA that hopefully will also be endorsed by the VGA for the State Country junior championships in November. Last year our lads won both the scratch and handicap sections in August but with the championship being put back to November 23-24 this year, we could be without at least three players because of age changes.
NORTH WEST WOMEN'S COUNTRY TEAM
No announcement has yet be made regarding the team to represent Sunraysia at Country Teams in Melbourne from August 28-31. The ladies are dragging the chain a bit this year as preparations for the matches at Northern, Melton Valley and Medway are yet to be completed. More news on this front next week.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Only a few in contention for the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the week with Bob Shields having 43 points at Mildura which wasn't quite as good as Maurice Munro's 44. Craig Blanch had 8 up at Riverside but out at Merbein big Dave Doering came in with +9. Dave wins four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's beautiful golf courses which must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave by Friday. Contact me with any golf information or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

20/7/11

WALKER SET TO WIN SDGA CHAMPIONSHIP
The 36 hole 2011 Sunraysia District Golf championship will be conducted at the Red Cliffs Golf Club this weekend. So far this year there has been three different winners of the first six Opens. Tim Walker, Greg Rhodes and Justin McPhee have shared two opens each from the six tournaments at Coomealla, Riverside, Mildura, Merbein, Red Cliffs and Robinvale. If one of those players were to be victorious at Red Cliffs, not only would they be crowned the 2011 district champion but also the player of the year, full stop. Walker and McPhee stand out at the top of the list with their home course advantage. Walker has been outstanding this year and will win if he plays to his best form. McPhee is a seasoned veteran who has consistently performed well on district courses but has been the shining light at Red Cliffs for the last ten years. Rhodes has been quiet of late. Study his career and you will find that the middle of the year is usually his down time, performance wise. The district championship though, is where he usually steps up a gear. Red Cliffs, for some reason has not been his happiest hunting ground. This is difficult to understand as with five par fives that he can reach in two, in normal conditions, it should suit him down to the ground. You would never count him out all together but it would be a surprise if he wins. 2011 has been a dry year for Ashley Whitehouse who has been winless for the first time since 1995, he has been in contention a couple of times but no cigar. Whitehouse as the course record holder, presents the biggest danger to the Red Cliffs duo if he brings his A game this weekend. Of the other chances Tim Peterson usually plays well at the Cliffs and perennial runner up Cameron Stewart has a good winning record there. Red cliffs in fact, is probably the course where he has won most often. My picks are 1. Tim Walker, 2. Ashley Whitehouse, 3. Justin McPhee.
NORTHERN IRELAND EYES SMILING AGAIN
The British Open was played last week and it was golf at it's finest. This tournament has everything, great links golf course, best golfers from all parts of the world and the doyen of golf commentators Peter Alliss combining his oratory skills with former Ryder Cup captain Mark James and our own Wayne Grady. Northern Ireland's Darren Clarke's win in the British Open was a phenomenal effort from one of the games most popular and really nice guys. The weather conditions were horrendous at times during the tournament but Clarke kept his composure and balance for the full 72 holes. Royal St Georges is a revered golf course but if you leave the fairways it resembles parts of a cow paddock, some of the lies are very challenging. US Open champion Rory McIlroy bemoaned how he hates playing in tournaments that are virtually decided by the luck of the weather. On the other hand Tom Watson who has won this championship five times and who had the worst of the weather on Sunday, said nothing in acceptance of the "rub of the green". In this part of the world the weather is expected, so the players kept playing accordingly, as the band played on. Phil Mickelson's first ten holes on Sunday where he went six under par were exhilarating, real edge of the seat stuff. His run came to an end on the back nine as Clarke just kept hitting fairways and greens. Dustin Johnson looked a big threat to Clarke until he shanked one out of bounds on 14. This is the third major that Johnson has almost got his hands on the cup. The US PGA championship at the Atlantic Golf Club in Georgia in August might be when he finally comes through. Darren Clarke has been regarded as a very talented golfer for twenty years but hasn't really played to his full capacity for four or five years. He lost his wife Heather to breast cancer in 2006 and has concentrated on bringing up his two sons, Tyrone and Conor. In recent years he has become very good friends with Phil and Amy Mickelson. Both Amy and Phil's mother Mary have had breast cancer and Darren befriended Phil and Amy to help, assist and advise after his own experience. Clarke has been described as an Irish version of John Daly without the reckless, carelessness and flamboyancy of the American but more because of his enjoyment of a good time and a few wee drinks. Clarke starred in the 2006 Ryder Cup at the K Club in Ireland as a player only one month after Heather died and there was a wave of emotion surrounding him throughout that event. Last year he and first round leader Thomas Bjorn were assistants to Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie in Europe's victory over the US at Celtic Manor in Wales. From a world perspective, the Ryder Cup has become the biggest and most watched golf event but the British Open is still the number one singles event for any golfer to win. No one expected Clarke to win, his odds were 150/1. This win elevates him to 30th in the world up 81 places and guarantees him a start in virtually any tournament he wants to enter. If his form continues, it is not unreasonable to suggest that he will have a playing role next year for Europe in the 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah Country Club in Florida. Clarke's next event will be one that is most dear to his hear, the Irish Open at Killarney on July 28. Hopefully by then he will have recovered from the Open celebrations!
LANGER FAVOURITE TO WIN BRITISH SENIOR OPEN AT WALTON HEATH
The 25th British Senior Open begins at Walton heath tomorrow with Germany's Bernhardt Langer the defending champion. Langer won at Carnoustie last year then flew to America where he duly won the US Senior Open. It is fair to say that anyone who beats him this week will probably win. Tom Watson, Corey Pavin, Mark Calcavechia and Tom Lehman appear to be Langer's greatest dangers but don't count out Peter Senior or Peter Fowler. Chooky is a former Australian Open winner at Kingston Heath, his win in Switzerland last week makes him the in form player on the European Senior Tour.
GOLF EVENTS GALORE IN AUGUST
Sunraysia golfers will have a number of different golf events to choose from next month from Broken Hill to Coomealla to Robinvale. On August 13-14 the inaugural Alianza Cultural Goanna Scramble will be conducted at the South Broken Hill Golf Club. The South is a sandcrape course and is a bit rough and tumble but the people there are fantastic and their hospitality is first class. A single stroke event on Saturday gives everyone a warm up for the main event on Sunday. A four person Ambrose with a minium prize worth $1200 to the winning team. Overall $5000 worth of trophies will be distributed over the weekend plus $500 for any hole in one. Phone 08 80874659 or Email phdee2@westnet.com.au for more details. On August 20 the Robinvale Golf Club will host it's inaugural Blossom Classic 4BBB stableford. A ford Fiesta valued at $20,000 will be offered as a hole in one prize along with $4,000 worth of prizes on the day. Two shot gun starts at 7-45 and 12-45 are available but get in quick as this will be a sell out event. Finally the Golfer Pacific Best Ball Challenge 2011 Sunraysia regional qualifying tournament will be played at the Coomealla Golf Club on August 27. Cost of entry is $35 per player with each player receiving 3 Taylor Made Penta golf balls (retail value $20) and a share of $1400 worth of Taylor Made prizes for the winners. The winning pair or pairs depending on the size of the field will go into a state final then possibly a national final on the Gold Coast at no further cost of entry. For further information phone the Coomealla golf club on 50 274658 or go golferpacific.com.au.
BARNBOUGLE DUNES IN OCTOBER
I am hosting a short golf trip to Barnbougle Dunes in Tasmania from October 23 - 26 and includes two games at Barnbougle Dunes and one at it's sister course Lost Farm. Two seats are still available for golfers who would like to play on Australia's number one public access golf course. We played there in March during out Tasmanian golf tour and I can't wait to go back, this course is an absolute beauty. The cost out of Melbourne includes three games of golf, three nights accommodation at Barnbougle Dunes, cooked breakfasts, evening meals and airport transfers. Let me know if you are interested in joining our group on 0419 208 337.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The Sunraysia Golf Tours - Round of the Week competition saw some cracking good scores this week. Isobel Westhead at Mildura, Grant Gillard at Riverside and Howard McGaffin at Merbein all had 43 points. At Wentworth Jean Riley had 102 net 60 in an outstanding performance but Merbein's Joe Hunyardi belied his age to scorch around the course for 46 points to get the nod this week. Joe wins four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's beautiful golf courses that must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave Mildura by Friday.
Contact me with any golfing information, stories or opinions at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au.
Good golfing to all.

13/7/11

RIVERSIDE WIN PENNANT AGAINST THE ODDS
Riverside Golf Club celebrated long and hard on Sunday night after the division one and two teams both won pennants at Red Cliffs beginning the day as under dogs. It looked to be a tall order to win against a team that was heading for four pennants in a row, particularly as Steve Willman was on one leg and had to use a motorised buggy to participate. This virtually meant that Riverside had to win three of the remaining four contests. Coomealla had its problems too as Jacob Slimmon turned up looking as though he had gone ten rounds with Mohammad Ali. Slimmon had run into a knee playing for Wentworth against Robinvale on Saturday and had incurred a broken nose and two lovely "shiners". The match ups were announced and Coomealla would have been pleased at the way they fell. Willman started at five against Ryan Laird, as expected Lairds fitness came to the fore after he was behind for most of the first 27 holes but emerged victorious over a courageous Willman 3/2. Dave Woolcock lined up against Leigh Fuller who has been a Country Week player of some note over last few successful years at Country Week in Melbourne. Woolcock had not been recognised as one of the top players in district golf and as such Fuller was favoured to win. Those in the know at Riverside were aware of Woolcock's development as a player this year. This awareness became more apparent last week when he overcame district number six ranked Cameron Stewart on Stewarts home course. Woolcock was able to close out Fuller 2/1 in an exciting contest which must put Woolcock in the mix for Country Week selection. The number three contest between Riverside's Troy Germaine and Coomealla captain Sean Baumgurtel was always going to be an interesting affair. Baumgurtel is known for his confidence in his own ability but on this occasion it must have deserted him as the lesser known Germaine won 5/4. Germaine has been around for a while but hasn't been able to take the next step, this win might prove to be the catalyst for that next leap forward. Riverside were looking odds on at this point. Coomealla's Tim Peterson was too good for a gallant Chris Thomas 6/4 but Slimmon was always on the back foot in his match against Robert Veit. Veit was able to close out "Rocky" 6/4 to give the green and gold their first division one pennant for ten years. Undoubably the lack of competitive golf played this year by Slimmon, Baumgurtel and Fuller contributed to their demise. As it sits now, the top contenders for Country Week selection based on the Open tournaments and pennant and whether they are available, would have to be: Tim Walker Red Cliffs, Greg Rhodes Coomealla, Justin McPhee Red Cliffs, Ash Whitehouse Mildura, Tim Peterson Coomealla, Cameron Stewart Mildura and Robert Veit Riverside. The next group would make up the balance of the team that will be chosen after the district championship at Red Cliffs on July 23-24. Those under consideration for remaining positions in the team should be: Dave Woolcock Riverside, Chris Thomas Riverside, Troy Germaine Riverside, Ryan Laird Coomealla, Jacob Slimmon Coomealla, Andrew Stewart Mildura and Tyler Verbeek Mildura. These players have one last chance to impress the selectors at Red Cliffs. If past history is any guide though, the team has already been chosen and just needs to be rubber stamped. I for one hope that pennant form is given greater significance this year than it has been in past years when the selectors air their thoughts.
RIVERSIDE, RED CLIFFS & WENTWORTH WIN PENNANTS
Riverside caused boilover number two for the day when they bowled over Mildura in division two pennant. Andrew Hill had a great win one up over exciting youngster Tom Holmes to put Riverside in front early. Greg Toma righted the ship for Mildura 3/2 before Travis Pattern unexpectedly knocked off Barry Pilgrim 4/2. Greg McCubbin was the hero of the hour for the second week in a row when he eliminated Dave Murray 4/2. Chris Williams at number one flew the Mildura flag defeating Jade Hall-Kelly 4/3 but it was too late as the champagne corks were already flying for Riverside. In division three home side Red Cliffs won in the closest battle of the day against Coomealla with four matches going to the 35th hole or further. Neville Walker, Russell Abrahams and Lou Young won for the home team whilst only Hamish Glasgow held up his end for the NSW contingent. Matt Adams and Damon Southgate retired after finishing square after 36 holes. In division four Wentworth were too accomplished for Mildura with top liners Phil Lawn and Nathan Gard giving Wentworth a huge advantage and club captain Peter Bicker winning his match. Peter Dooley was Mildura's only victor while Glen Johnson and Bob Bettes fought out a draw. Overall the SDGA would be pleased that the pennants were shared by three clubs without the two biggest clubs dominating in any grade. In what looked to be lack lustre pennant season back in May, matchplay golf between our clubs is alive and kicking. The format needs to be fixed and our clubs should be encouraged to field more teams, even playing ladies pennant at the same venues on the same day. Division one for men and ladies at one course, division two at another and so on. When I first began playing pennant in the early 80's, the pennant final was a huge occasion with fifty to sixty spectators. That is what we must endeavour to get back to. It can be done with the support of the clubs, SDGA and the players. This type of event would help to attract our children to want to be part of something so exciting.
BRITISH OPEN IS THE WORLD OPEN
The British Open is the best and fairest of all the four major golf tournaments played each year. Almost anyone can play in it, provided of course you can win through one of he many qualifying events. These qualifying events are held all over the world including in Australia and the US and many other countries. No other major allows that opportunity. The Open this year hits off at 6PM our time tomorrow night at Royal St Georges in Kent England. It is a wonderful old links course where America's first Open champion Walter Hagen first raised the old Claret Jug in 1922. Since then there have been many championships that have produced some of the most famous names in golf. In 1993 Greg Norman played what has been described as an immaculate round of links golf in the final round of the Open. 92 year old American legend Gene Sarazen stood beside the 18th green that day and was overheard to say "I never thought I would live to see golf played like this". Norman's playing partner Bernhardt Langer later verified that assessment calling it the finest round he had ever witnessed. And so, we come to the 140th British Open with a multitude of possibilities. World number one Luke Donald ran away from the field in the Scottish Open on Sunday but it is difficult to see him win two weeks in a row. Rory McIlroy won the US Open but hasn't played since, he though, is an exceptional golfer and would surprise no one if he were to win. There are no less than 40 Americans in the field this year with five times winner Tom Watson being the oldest and not without a chance. Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson represent the best of the US in this event but I like the chances of Graeme McDowell, Ian Poulter and Martin Kaymer with the top Aussie being between Adam Scott and Geoff Ogilvy.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This week the scores reflected the cold sharp weather conditions with only a few really good scores returned by Sunraysia's aggregate competition field of 1400 golfers. Good scores came from Colin Moore at Merbein and Roslyn Black at Coomealla but the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week goes to Wentworth's Dave Porter who had 43 points. Dave plays at Wentworth and Coomealla and more often than not he more towards the bottom of the leader board so his win of four Sunraysia Golf Club placemats is reward for his sustained efforts. Dave can pick up his prize from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave Mildura.
Contact me with any golfing information, stories or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

8/7/11

TIM WALKER VICTORIAN jUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP RUNNER UP
Red Cliffs golfer Tim Walker continued his excellent form in Sunraysia golf this year in the Victorian Junior Championships this week. The 72 hole event was played at the Yarra Yarra and Northern Golf Clubs in Melbourne. The conditions were nothing short of atrocious with 100 klm winds and squally rain over both days of the tournament. Commonwealth's Lucas Herbert who plays off a +2 handicap led from the first round at Yarra Yarra where he recorded an impressive 74 in the trying conditions. Tim who plays off -1, struggled to come to terms with the wind and finished with an 80 to be six shots behind. In the afternoon the wind was even stronger but he improved his score with 77, only to drop two shots further behind Herbert. On Tuesday morning Walker really gritted his teeth and shot 67 which ultimately was the lowest round of the championship. This left him one shot behind Herbert and Rosanna's Justin Ispanovic who had posted a 68 to be equal leader. In the afternoon Herbert kept his cool to shoot 74 in the rain whilst Walker came in with 75 and Ispanovic 81. If Walker is to continue his good form then victory in the SDGA championship at his home course of Red Cliff on July 23-24 is a distinct possibility. 2010 Sunraysia District Golf Association champion Jake Laubsch who now represents the Grange Golf Club in Adelaide finished 11th in the tournament 11 shots behind Herbert. Former Riverside golfer Jack Marlais who now plays off 3 at Sanctuary Lakes (whose father Robert was a former district champion) also competed in the championship with a best round of 77 at Yarra Yarra. This year Sanctuary Lakes who are a young club, won the division two pennant in the VGA pennant competition and will move into division one for the first time next year. Tim Walker is considering joining the Sanctuary Lakes club next year to compete with the team in their inaugural season with Robert Marlais as a team mate against the likes of Yarra Yarra, Metropolitan, Kingston Heath and all the major metropolitan golf clubs.

6/7/11

PENNANT ALL ROSY DOWN AT RIVERSIDE
Riverside finally hit the jackpot in district pennant at Mildura Golf Club Resort on Sunday going through to the final in the top two divisions. In division one Mildura were without Ashley Whitehouse but most observers still expected the home club to win comfortably. That was not to be with Riverside winning 3/2. Prior to hit off four of Mildura's starting line-up were considered walk up starts for Country Week selection whilst Riverside probably had only one aspirant in Chris Thomas. That may have changed after Sunday because matchplay golf is what is played at Country Week and some players are most definitely better match players than stroke players. Mildura's Tim Walker has been the outstanding player in both formats this year and has taken over from where Jake Laubsch left off last year. Tyler Verbeek returned to form winning his match on Sunday, the district championships at Red Cliffs in two weeks will indicate whether he is really back on track. For Riverside Chris Thomas was seen as probably the next best after our districts top ten players. That also may have changed after two wins in the last two weeks. Dave Woolcock has also lifted his ranking after some great performances during pennant. To beat Cameron Stewart on Sunday is a real feather in his cap as Stewart, on his home turf, looked most formidable. Finally the old fossil of the team Robert Veit has been a revelation this year. At 58 years of age he has been in the top ten players in every Open he has played this year and has performed admirably in pennant. So, who wins this week at Red Cliffs between Coomealla, who are going for four in a row and the Cinderella team Riverside? It really will depend on the match ups. Tim Peterson is the standout player for Coomealla and Leigh Fuller is a bulldog who usually finds a way to win. Jacob Slimmon should be suited by the Red Cliffs layout of five par fives which makes him hard to toss. They are the keys to Coomealla winning. The other two players are Sean Baumgurtel who has had reasonable form in pennant and either Ryan Laird or Troy Neville as the last player chosen. For Riverside to win they will depend on Chris Thomas, Dave Woolcock and Robert Veit to get a favourable draw. It certainly won't be a lay down misere but Coomealla, on form, should win but stranger things have happened. In division two Riverside have the momentum to overcome Mildura whilst in division three Red Cliffs should beat Coomealla and Wentworth will be too strong for Mildura Gold in division four.
LADIES CLUB CHAMPIONS
The ladies club championships have been completed at all district clubs and three new champions emerged from the fray. Sue Laird continued her dominance at Coomealla and Mildura where she has been almost unbeatable over the last few years. Bev Cetinich has a stranglehold on the title at Merbein where she has been so integral to the club on and off the golf course. At Riverside Marg Lampard finally broke through and should continue her dominance down by the river in the foreseeable future. Sally Jones is another player who has been just off the pace for a period of time at Red Cliffs but this year she has finally broken through. Sally and her family are long time Red Cliffs members and it would have been a popular win. Now everyone will be talking about the Jones girl. At Wentworth club captain Lee Bottomley has beaten her husband to championship honours by winning the best player at Wentworth in their championship. Lee hasn't been playing very long but is improving each year and looks to be a Country Teams player of the future.
MILDURA ON THE RIGHT TRACK
Two weeks ago in this column, I proposed that it should be investigated that a commission take over the running of district golf. I have received many verbal opinions and several emails and texts from different parties. Almost all of them were in agreement with a proposed investigation of the possibilities. Mildura Golf Club were the only club to officially reply through their president Maurice Warn. Mr Warn states in his letter that "Our club believes that it is time to look closely at the role of the SDGA and given that you have opened the discussion into the public forum it would be an opportune time to look at the current structure in regards to its role in the district and state level. A commission may be an alternative but one thing is certain, there is a need to review and improve for the sake of our great game".
Mildura Golf Club Resort have faced many challenges over the last ten or so years and look to have finally identified the right way to attract more members by reducing its full membership cost to $415. This fee also includes a $105 house credit which can be used within the club for meals and bar purchases. This is an excellent innovation as not only does it encourage the members to spend money at the club but it also promotes club socialising which builds club spirit and a feeling of ownership and togetherness. The club has also addressed the lack of juniors playing golf, through club professional Mike McKenzie clinics have been conducted at the club for over 100 primary school children. The club now has 50 registered junior members which is what it has missed out on in the last ten years. As stated in this column before, Mildura has the only real succession plan for their club officials with the vice captain eventually becoming the club president. Whilst I have not always been a fan of some aspects of the club in the past, I believe in giving credit where it is due and from the outside looking in, it appears that that the Mildura Golf Club Resort, is now on the right track.
BARCLAYS SCOTTISH OPEN
The 2011 Barclays Scottish Open hits off on Thursday with some of the biggest names in world golf getting an early look at links golf before the British Open the following week. The new course for the Barclays this year is Castle Stuart Golf Links. This looks to be a gem of a golf course that will provide a really stern test, particularly if the wind gets up. I loved the first description of the "course goals" on the club website, it said " the golf course should provide elicit anticipation and hopefulness in players of all skill levels, it will test ones perceptual ability, judgment, decision-making, shotmaking and emotional poise" It will be most interesting to observe how Luke Donald, Lee Westwood, Graeme McDowell, Padraig Harrington and Americans Phil Mickelson and Matt Kuchar bear up to what is obviously an exquisite yet emotional test of golf.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week could have gone to any one of at least six players this week but it was the ladies who deserved most recognition. At Riverside Jeff Smith, Aldo D'Amico, Darren Mannix and Ned Klemm all featured on the winners dais. Murray Wilson was a standout with a great score. Max Turvey was the king at Merbein while Sandra Marwood and Lorna Simpson stood out at Red Cliffs. This week though, it was the performances of Lee Bottomley at Wentworth in the club championship and Caroline James in winning her first Open at Merbein that grabbed my attention. Both ladies win four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's golf courses and must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura by Friday.
Contact me with your golf information, stories or opinion at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

29/6/11

COOMEALLA MAINTAIN PENNANT SUPREMACY
Coomealla Golf Club are now on track to win their fourth division one pennant final in a row after beating Mildura 3/2 at Coomealla on Sunday. The Kookaburra's were flying on Sunday after Tim Peterson (7/5) was far too good for Tyler Verbeek who seems to have lost his desire for golfing excellence. Ashley Whitehouse (2/1) turned the tables on Jacob Slimmon who had knocked him off last year. Sean Baumgurtel returned the biggest surprise in district pennant this year when he beat Cameron Stewart on the 18th. This contest was pivotal in the overall result as Mildura would have marked it down for a certain win. Tim Walker (2/1) continued his dominance in beating Ryan Laird which left Coomealla's Leigh Fuller who had finished all square with Andrew Stewart. With the two teams following behind Fuller was able to par the first play off hole to give the home team victory. Mildura now have to play Riverside in the semi final at Mildura this week for the right to meet Coomealla in the final the following week at Red Cliffs. This won't be easy as Riverside are cock a hoop after handing Broken Hill a 5/0 flogging on Sunday. Ashley Whitehouse has declared himself a non starter on Sunday as he has to work and Cameron Stewart is also in doubt. If these players were to miss, Riverside would just about be a shoe in. Whichever way it goes, Coomealla look to be sitting pretty. Mildura recruited well at the start of the season luring Walker and Verbeek to their club. Walker has been a standout but Verbeek has dropped back on previous years. He can play, it is just a matter of whether is able to commit to his golf as he had done for the last seven years. In division two Coomealla had their first win which catapulted them into the semi final this week against Riverside. Riverside won 3/2 at their encounter two weeks ago but Coomealla were one man short and should reverse that result with a full team. Divisions three and four will complete their home and away seasons this Sunday at Mildura. Pennant was again farcical at Coomealla on Sunday with 45 minute delays, then waits on the first three holes. It is not the fault of the clubs but more the organization or lack of by the SDGA. Clearly pennant has to be split into two venues with more time allowed for each division to hit off. This debacle has occurred over the last couple of years and if it is not rectified then some players may opt out of pennant altogether. Two venues would allow for more teams and more players if pennant is made more appealing to the players.
MARG LAMPARD 2011 RIVERSIDE LADIES CHAMPION
Riverside Golf club has a new ladies champion. Marg Lampard has been in contention in the championships for a number of years but hasn't been able to graduate from the contender tag, to winner. That was until June 2011. Marg grew up in a golfing family in Warracknabeal and learnt her golf on sandcrape greens. After moving to Mildura and raising a family she continued her golf at Riverside and hovered around B grade and then into the A grade ranks. Riverside was dominated by Carolyn Croke, Nycole Riordan and Lorraine Palmer in recent years and working Monday to Friday, Marg missed out on a lot of hard competition against the districts top lady golfers. Yesterday she said "It is hard to only play at weekends and reach the standards of the districts best players. Sunday pennant has really helped my golf over the last couple of years. I play most Saturdays and have a practice session a the golf range every Wednesday night but midweek club open tournaments aren't possible for me because of my employment". Some of the men's club opens have included a ladies section which has been popular with the ladies who have Monday to Friday jobs. Ladies Monday pennant is becoming a non event with so many ladies unavailable. Sunday pennant is overtaking Monday's because more of the younger ladies are available to play. The older ladies who have been there and done that are dropping out of pennant on a Monday. This is another reason why a governing body such as a commission, with a 2011 outlook would be ideally placed to reconstruct district golf for both the men and ladies for the future and beyond. Why not have the men's and ladies pennant together and the ladies opens together? Clearly, men's pennant has to be revamped or at the least split up into two courses. There is much to think about and discuss, if we as a district are to progress or shall we just roll over and continue on as is? Surely it is time to let go of the past, look at the present and plan for the future.
THIRD HEART - FIRST TITLE
Miami golf professional Erik Compton was first diagnosed with cardiomyopathy when he was nine years of age. Three years later he had his first heart transplant, as part of his rehabilitation he took up golf. That heart subsequently began failing so in 1998 he had his second heart transplant. By this time he was fully into a life in golf and turned professional to try and make a name for himself. His reasoning was that if he could overcome the life obstacles that had been placed in front of him, golf would be his next mountain to climb. Naturally his story was covered quite extensively in golfing circles in the US which enabled him to get quite a few sponsors invitations into golf tournaments. This year he received a limited medical exemption onto the secondary Nationwide Tour and did reasonably well in the first four months without winning. On Sunday Erik won the Mexico Open which pretty much guarantees him a ticket to the US PGA Tour next year on his own merit. At age 31, thirteen years of persisting, he has finally made it.
YANI TSENG - NUMBER ONE AT 22
Men's golf capture most of the world golfing headlines as Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and now a host of Europeans topping the world rankings. Almost unnoticed is world number one in ladies golf, Taiwan's Yani Tseng who won the US LPGA championship on Sunday by ten shots. At only 22 years of age she is eclipsing all of the records at a rapid rate. Last year she bought former worlds number one, Annika Sorenstam's house in Florida. Sorentam had won ten majors and clearly was the best ladies golfer in the world for several years until she retired to have a family. Tseng now has four majors and has only to win the US Open in a fortnight to claim the grand slam of all four majors. Earlier this year she won the Australian Open and Australian Masters and has continued on her winning way around the world.
LARRAZABAL WINS IN GERMANY
Pablo Larrazabal overcame his Spanish compatriot Sergio Garcia after on the fifth playoff hole to win the BMW International Open in Munich on Sunday. Larrazabal has for many years had two golfing idols Tiger Woods and Sergio Garcia, so to beat one of them in a playoff was something special, for him. Garcia looked to have the title in the bag with seven holes to go but needed a birdie at the 72nd hole to tie his young friend. This win has elevated Larrazabal into the top echelon of European golf and has earn't him and Garcia a spot in the field of the British open at Royal St Georges next month. Garcia has been in a form slump over the last two years but a fifth in the US Open last week and a second in Germany gives him confidence going into the British Open where he has played very well in the past.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week resulted in a triple dead heat this week with three players from three clubs all having 45 points. At Red Cliffs Rod Gray was first up from a spell in good form and bolted in, whilst at Riverside former Robinvale colt Kerry Gray duly saluted on fast track. Out at Wentworth it was "stayers" day when veteran one pacer Ken King had a welcome return to form. Ken wins four laminated Sunraysia golf course placemats including the 18th hole at Wentworth with the old gaol in the background and must collect them by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions at golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

22/6/11

THE FUTURE OF GOLF IN SUNRAYSIA
Golf in Sunraysia is heading for the cross roads. In fairness, as in life and the society we knew twenty year ago, the golfing landscape has changed. Our clubs are run differently, more towards revenues and securing enough money to run operations, in many cases just to continue. Our playing personnel has changed too, less juniors, less players in their 20's, 30's and 40's. Go to any golf club on any Saturday and do a quick survey, the majority of the competition players are aged 50-70. Attracting juniors to play is more difficult than ever before because of a multitude of reasons. Not the least being that there are many more options open to youngsters today and the programs offered by basketball, football, cricket and tennis are far superior to the junior programs that most golf clubs offer. The two bodies overseeing golf in the district are the Sunraysia District Golf Association and the North West Women's Golf Inc who consist of delegates from each club who meet once a month. Essentially these bodies run several events during the year and pennant between the clubs. These so called ruling bodies have limited control if any, of how the clubs operate in a golfing sense and therefore cannot influence any standards that each club adhere to. Going back in time there was a real feeling of importance and respect about being an official on a golf club committee. Members and visitors looked up to the club president and captain who was usually someone in the community who was regarded as having the capacity to steer the club in the right direction and continue the traditions of the club as those before them did. Whilst many of our club leaders are still regarded in the same ilk it is getting harder to attract the most capable people to those positions. Almost twenty years ago there was a suggestion that the SDGA investigate the possibility of appointing a commission to run golf in Sunraysia rather than the SDGA. Perhaps it is time to explore that possibility again. Sure it would be radical but the outcome would be that you would finish up with an independent body that wasn't influenced by necessarily the loudest voice or the strongest club but by what is best for our district as a whole. The Victorian Golf Association has merged with Women's Golf Victoria and it is only a matter of time before this filters down through the relative country golf associations. If a commission was put into place to reorganise golf in Sunraysia with appropriate people then golf in this district could begin to deliver the standards, returns to clubs and opportunities for juniors and golfers of all standards that we are capable of. At the moment it is not the responsibility of the SDGA or the NWWG to do much more than they currently do but a commission with the backing of the clubs, City Council, sports academy and major sponsors could lift us up where we belong. Not only geographically but as the top of the State in country golf. What do you think, let me know if you agree or disagree?
PENNANT SHOWDOWN AT COOMEALLA
Division one pennant will be full of interest this week when top teams Mildura and Coomealla meet at Coomealla. Whilst the number of clubs participating in this division has been disappointing, the actual competition has been far more interesting and exciting than was first thought. Initially Mildura were thought to be far and away the team most likely but it hasn't turned out that way, so far. This week both teams should be back to full strength, the winner will go into the final and wait for their opponent to come from either Riverside or Broken Hill. Mildura should have Ash Whitehouse, Tim Walker, Cameron and Andy Stewart and either Tyler Verbeek or Shay Toma. Coomealla's team will be Sean Baumgurtel. Jake Slimmon, Tim Peterson, Leigh Fuller and Ryan Laird. The key to who wins this contest will be in the matchups. It is highly unlikely that either team will play down the line with their best players lining up at number one, if this were to happen Mildura would be more likely to win. As it is, Coomealla will need to get their matchups right. This is easier said than done because who knows where the key players are likely to play? That is the attraction and exciting anticipation that this system offers as against the obvious player positions of lining up in handicap order. Mildura should win 3/2 in a close one. In the other contest Riverside have been terrific in the first two contests against the gun teams. They should beat Broken Hill, on form, but that will depend on whether the Hill's top players turn up. Most of their top guns seem reluctant to play at Coomealla, so far their team this year hasn't been their top five players, so Riverside look home and hosed!
BRYDEN MCPHERSON WINS BRITISH AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP
Former Devil Bend golfer Bryden McPherson won the British Amateur Championship last week. This was an enormous achievement as only Doug Bachli (also Victorian) in 1954 has won the event for Australia. McPherson played a Royal Troon member in the final in front of galleries of over 700, many of whom were from Troon who cheered loudly for their man. McPherson lives in the US after securing a golf scholarships to one of the big colleges over there but he still wears the Australian colours proudly. The win now ensures him of a place in next months British Open and the 2012 US Masters.
MCILROY SURE AT CONGRESSIONAL
Rory McIlroy won the US Open at Congressional Golf Club on Sunday by eight shots from Australia's Jason Day. It wasn't a big surprise to most people but the easiness of the win was. McIlroy's story is very interesting, a catholic boy who grew up in a protestant suburb of Belfast who was consumed with golf from a very early age playing at the Hollywood Golf Club in Belfast. His father Gerry, was a scratch golfer who began coaching Rory from the age of 18 months. When at age eight he watched Tiger Woods win the 1997 US Masters by 12 shots, he decided that was what he wanted to do, play golf for a living. To this day McIlroy maintains he can just about describe Woods last round, shot by shot. The McIlroy's backed their son from the onset, building a putting green in the back yard for him to practice on. Rory's dad worked up to 90 hours a week to raise enough money to send Rory to tournaments including a trip to the United States to play in a junior world championship. Rory McILroy is THE golfer now and with it will come all the pressure that Tiger Woods has endured since his emergence as a superstar. It will be interesting to see how the 22 year old handles that pressure of expectation. The next stanza in this story will be the British Open next month when he will hit off as a short priced favourite. As the new young face of golf he opens up all sorts of possibilities as someone who will restore the brand of golf that Tiger Woods single handedly grew then tarnished almost two years ago. Mothers will be looking at Rory and be pleased that heir children are looking up to him. It was a great day for golf in general on Sunday. McIlroy has such a freshness about his personality and the way he plays. Jack Nicklaus was often cited as the golfer who instigated slow play, more because of his meticulousness in preparing for a shot. Watch this kid though, and he really gets on with it quickly, similarly to how Lee Trevino did and Aaron Baddeley now does. As for Mr Woods, the pressure would seem to be off him now, to a certain extent. If he can get the injuries to his body fixed then he only has to fix his mindset and repair his golf swing. If he can get that swing back and that killer attitude, then we are going to see some of the best golf between two of the biggest modern day golfing hero's. Maybe Rory can wear all white and Tiger all black, that really would be a traditional old style shootout!
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
There were lots of good winter golf scores at all of our local golf clubs this week vying for the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week. Riverside's best were Gwen Wright and Beau Tarr who had 43 points to be only behind Ollie Asmanis who had +8. At Wentworth, left handed John Klemm turned back the pages of history with a rare return to form with 64 net. Pat Sylvia had 44 points at Merbein in a playoff for the monthly medal against club champion Bev Cetinich. At Coomealla Paul Wright's return from a serious operation saw him record his best ever score at his home club for a 63 net. The nod this week goes to relative newcomer to golf, Helen Brice who came in with 45 points at Coomealla on Saturday. Helen can pick up her prize of four laminated Sunraysia golf course placemats from the Sunraysia Golf Range at 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday
Contact me with any golf information or opinions at golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

16/6/11

GOLF'S IRON MAN
The Guinnes Book of Records has a lot to answer for. Shane Crawford used the Footy show as a forum for breaking world records for some ridiculous feats, all in the name of entertainment. In the US they just about break the record for breaking world records on a regular basis. The latest record to be broken in golf parlance is the number of holes played in a week. Seventy year old Pastor Bob Kurtz played golf 16 hours a day to rack up 1850 holes, averaging 74.55 for almost 103 completed rounds at he Quail Creek Golf Resort. Kurtz is known in his area of Hartselle Alabama as someone who is prepared to take on a challenge. After the tornado annihilated so many peoples lives, he decided to do something to raise money for Tornado Relief. People pledged money per hole, subsequently he raised thousands of dollars for his, and his many helpers efforts. Over 100 volunteers assisted him during his 102 hour game of golf. Many were, as he was, in a golf cart, they teed his ball up, scouted the sides of the course for any wayward shots, kept score, provided food and drinks along the journey. People asked him continually, how did he play 16 hours a day for seven days? "one hole at a time" was always his stock answer. He followed up that quip with, "It was really great, but I'm not very happy because I didn't putt very well! During the 103 rounds he bettered his age of 70 six times. Kurtz began playing golf for extended periods four years ago when he played 178 holes consecutively to raise money for children with cancer. During this challenge he took pledges for holes played which doubled every round he bettered his age (he was then 66) which he did 4 times! The following year he took on the challenge of playing 500 consecutive holes. After practising in the dark using glow at night balls in preparation for the Guinnes record he has earned a break. That is until someone or somehing appeals to him as a worthwhile challenge. He will have a go at it, especially if someone says, "it can't be done".

16/6/11

US OPEN - A TRUE TIN CUP STORY
the world of golf is full of a litany of stories of golfers that come from nowhere to become super stars and so many more that never make it and no-one ever hears about. In the US Open field beginning tomorrow at the Congressional Golf Club are two pro's who have come from the depths of despair to now have a "chance" in the big time. Former high school teammates Christo Greyling and Ty Tryon were once regarded as the best two juniors in America. Ten years ago they went to the same private school in Orlando where former PGA tour professional and now leading Senior tour professional John Cook was the assistant coach on the golf team. Both lads were regarded as walk up start tour pro's of the future. Given the incomphrensible paralells of their careers since, it was only fitting that they qualified for the US Open last Monday in the 36 hole sectional qualifying. Tryon turned pro at 17 while still at school, becoming the youngest ever to secure a US PGA Tour card. At the time, not everyone thought he was the best player on the school team. Some thought it was Greyling who went down the more traditional path, becoming the number one player ranked in the American Junior Golf Association. Subsequently he accepted a scholarship to Georgia College. Tryon had first met Greyling whose family had moved to the US from South Africa when the boys were 12. Both were coached by David Leadbetter and Greyling first made headlines when he Monday qualified for a PGA Tour event at 17. Several months later Tryon matched his mate by Monday qualifying for the Honda Classic and went on to become the youngest player since 1956 to make the 36 hole cut. Four months later he shot 65 to lead asfter the first round of the BC Open. Just as Tryon's career was taking off Greyling was facing some debilitating issues. He had began taking Accutane, a controversial acne medication that has since been linked to teenage suicide, depression and behavoural issues. His scores ballooned from the 60's to the 80's and his golf career spiralled out of control. Tryon, by now a tour pro was also having acne problems and had also started taking accutane. His career also started going backwards and he fell short of his and others expectations as he played the secondary Nationwide Tour. Not that long ago his back up team was the best that his dad's money could buy. Leadbetter, yoga instructor, sports psychologist, personal trainer and a tour caddie. Soon though, there was just him, his wife and their son after his parents divorced. Greyling kept battling away playing mini tours. The high point came when he went through tour school and qualified for the Nationwide Tour in 2008. With the financial crisis in the the US his parents who had given up their life style in South Africa to take their three children to the US for a better life, separated. Not long after, Greyling got the call that his dad had taken his own life. Christo burried his dad on his birthday. Last Monday he sat in the clubhouse waiting for his mate after he had posted a score giving him his ticket to possible stardom. Tryon came stumbling up the last hole, he looked forlorn and out of sorts facing a 45 foot putt. As luck would have it he drained the putt and will take his place tomorrow. After the qualifying both men went ten pin bowling to celebrate their achievement. Tryon and his wife and son are sharing a foldout couch in his mates lounge room. They are still dreaming of what might be, just as they were a decade ago. As my father once told me forty years ago, " many are called but few are chosen". I really hope that these two are part of the few on Friday night when the 36 hole cut is made.

15/6/11

ROBINVALE TO HOST PENNANT
Robinvale Golf Club will host the districts top golfers on Sunday when round two of division one pennant hits off. Riverside performed admirably at home in the first round against pennant favourites Mildura, going down by the narrowest of margins 3/2 after Chris Thomas lost to Andrew Stewart at the 18th. This Sunday they face another stern test against Coomealla who thrashed Broken Hill at Riverside 5/0. Coomealla will have a full list to choose from this week, making Riverside's task even harder. In the second contest Broken Hill come up against Mildura and will find it even harder this week as few of their players have ever played at Robinvale. In division two Red Cliffs will play Mildura and should consolidate their position on top of the ladder. Coomealla will be hell bent on winning this week after losing the first round to the Cliffs when they played one man short. Robinvale have been working very hard to get their golf course back to it's best. It really is a good test of golfing skill and will provide some great contests.
HOLDEN SCRAMBLE AT COOMEALLA
Coomealla Golf Club ran their very first Holden Scramble in 1994, so it certainly has passed the test of time with the event ebbing and flowing over the last few years. This year the tournament rules got back to almost where it was when the event began and 156 players turned up and plied their skills on Sunday. Three and a half thousand players have now contested the event at Coomealla with an estimated 20,000 shots being hit during this event. The golfers this year came from 19 visiting golf clubs from Adelaide to Corowa. The handicaps ranged from scratch to 45 with 58 percent handicapped from 10-19, 37 per cent from 20-45 and 15 per cent on single figures. Seven of the top eight combinations had an aggregate handicap of around seven. The winning team of Tim Peterson, Matt Adams, Tim Green and Richard Jones also had the best scratch score and finished with 63 - 7.75 - 55.25. The top four teams will now go into the State regional final which will be contested later in the year.
LADIES CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS
Sue Laird looks to have a strong hold on the ladies club championships at Mildura and Coomealla. Laird played poorly at Coomealla in the first round for an 87 but backed up last week with a 76 two days in a row at Coomealla then Mildura then another 76 at Mildura yesterday. At Merbein Bev Cetinich just keeps on keeping on, winning again this year. Marg Lampard is yet to raise the main trophy at Riverside but tomorrow she takes a seven shot lead into the last round. No news from Wentworth or Red Cliffs but hopefully next week a report will be available. Good luck to all ladies this week.
24TH ATHENS OPEN
The Greek national anthem wafted around the fairways and greens of the Riverside Golf Club on Sunday morning as the competitors in the 24th Athens Open stood to attention for the traditional raising of the Greek flag. On completion of the flag raising all competitors skulled shots of ouzo, then hit off, as is their tradition at every Athens Open. Since 1987 a group of Sunraysia's Greek golfers and their friends have welcomed fellow golfers from Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide an even Papua New Guinea to celebrate the game of golf and good fellowship before and after the game. The tournament has always been held over the Melbourne Cup weekend but this year it was decided to change to the Queens birthday weekend which is more convenient for the majority of the current players. The top three place getters all came from Melbourne this year with Tim Likos going from last in 2010 to first this year. Vasy Christakakis was second and Barry Templeton (no relation to the Templakinos's) was third with the 2010 winner Nick Kiapekos finishing last this year. Since 1987 more than 500 players have saluted the flag and skulled the chosen drop. Next year will be a big one with many past players expected to journey up to Mildura for the 25th annual Athens Open.
111TH US OPEN AT CONGRESSIONAL
The second Major of the year hits off in Washington on Thursday in Washington at the Congressional Golf Club for the 111th US Open. In the first US Open there were 11 players and the winner received $150 and a gold medal from the total prize money of $335. This year there were was almost 10,000 entries with 156 getting into the field that will play for 7.5 million dollars. No Tiger this year, so Adam Scott has employed Tiger's caddy Steve Williams to carry his bag. Scott was equal second in the US Masters in April when he used a broomstick putter. Maybe Williams who is regarded as the best caddy in the world will make the difference and lift Scott to his first Major victory. Congressional is a brutal test and the second longest course on the US Open rotation, add to that the penal rough that they rarely have at any course in the US except for the Open and the US PGA tournament. The Americans are really hanging out for a Phil Mickelson win. Mickelson has been runner up five times and is fast becoming a modern day Sam Snead. Snead won everything except the US Open, just as the US Masters was Greg Norman's bogey tournament, so it was with Snead and now Mickelson in the US Open. Ireland's Rory McIlroy could be the one this year after his countryman Graeme McDowell won it last year at Pebble Beach. McIlroy is fearless and only has to have a good week with the putter to be right in it at the end. As the course will favour the long hitters, Scott Hend from Queensland just might finish high up as probably only Spain's Alvaro Quiros hits it further. Hend has been playing in Europe this year after becoming a golfing nomad in recent years going from one tour to another. There are some great groups in the first two rounds including the top three ranked players in the World, Lule Donald, Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer. The three top Italians will hit off together in the Molinari brothers and Matteo Mannaserto. The Spainards, Miguel Angel Jimenez, Sergio Garcia and Alvaro Quiros will be a terrific group to follow, all different golfers but great players in their own right. Play commences on 10 at 5am Friday morning. Go Aussies.
THE STORY OF A "TOUGH COURSE"
Bill invited his mate Butch to play at his new club. Since Butch had never played the course before, Bill pointed out the trouble spots and where to aim on the first hole. Butch teed it up, addressed the ball, took a couple of waggles, wound it up an took one hell of a swing. He hit a foot behind the ball, tore up the tee ground and totally missed the ball. Unphased he stepped back, took another couple of practice swings and again addressed the ball. This time his swing completely missed everything. He stepped back from his ball again, looked at Bill and said "Boy, this really is a tough course!"
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week was easy to pick this week with the scores around the district very good at all courses. No less than eight players bettered their handicaps by 8 shots including Riverside's Seb Raiti, Kevin Welsh, Darren Mannix, Andrew Hill, Coomealla's Glenn Palmer and Ian Walder, also Ryan Teasdale at Merbein and at Red Cliffs Geoff Smith. Sandy Wright did everything right for 45 points at Red cliffs only to be equalled by Bob Smith at Coomealla who was runner up on Monday to David Inglis who had a staggering 48 points. David wins four laminated Sunraysia Golf Course placemats which must be collected by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave Mildura.
Contact me with any golfing information, stories or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

8/6/11

WENTWORTH GOLF CLUB - TO BE OR NOT TO BE
The Wentworth Golf Club committee and its members have been the target of what they regard as unfair rumours and innuendo from the general golfing community of Sunraysia. For over twelve months the "word" around local golf clubs is that Wentworth Golf Club will close down soon. Yesterday a prominent golf club spokesperson said "enough is enough, we are here to stay and we will continue to work hard to get our club and golf course back on track. Three weeks ago we held a charity day that raised over $10,000 for local charities and everyone who played enjoyed the day". The Wentworth Golf Club has always had the support of the Wentworth Services Sporting Club who have had their own share of problems in recent years. The two committees have been working together in recent months to overcome the current issues confronting the golf club. Wentworth Services Sporting Club president Sandra Arnold said on Monday "Our committee have met with the golf club and assured them that we want the golf club to continue. For that to happen, it has to reduce its running costs. It is preposterous to suggest that the golf club is closing down. We have just recently secured a grant from the Bendigo Bank to assist with some restoration work on the greens which is most timely after the problems caused by the rain and flooding earlier in the year. We really need the golf club members to support the club by playing regularly and bringing their friends from Mildura out for a game". In recent months it has been suggested that as a way of cutting costs the Wentworth Services Sporting Club relocate down to the sports complex to cut costs but at this point that is unlikely to happen. The sports complex also houses the Wentworth bowls club and tennis club who have adjoining courts and rinks. Wentworth Golf Club has only 130 members of which only 20-30 play regularly in club competitions making it extremely difficult to raise the revenue required to cover the cost of maintaining an 18 hole golf course. Wentworth Regional Tourism president Russell James who is also a director of the Wentworth Services Sporting Club yesterday spoke of the bigger picture saying "Our association understands the attraction that our golf club has for visiting and local golfers alike. We feel confident that if the golf course can be restored to its previous condition then big golf events can be sourced and conducted by our golf club. We look forward to assisting in bringing not only golf events but other festivals and sporting competitions to the sports complex. Sunraysia District Golf Association president Brian Tyers is fully aware of the golf club's plight and indicated yesterday that the SDGA is one hundred per cent behind it. "It is important that all eight clubs in our association are strong and viable, all clubs go through ups and downs and Wentworth have been hit by all sorts of set backs but the SDGA will offer any support that we are capable of to the Wentworth Golf Club". Although there are only seven or eight ladies who play regularly on Tuesdays in competition, the pennant team did well this year finishing off the season with a win against eventual pennant winners Red Cliffs in the last round. North West Women's Golf president Pat Page endorsed the efforts of the club in it's determination to continue, "Our association fully supports Wentworth, we scheduled our first rounds of Sunday and Monday pennant there recently to give the club an opportunity to showcase their course to the districts lady golfers. As a result all who played spoke positively about the course and how important it was for Wentworth to continue". In men's pennant that began at the weekend the club only has one team in division three, due to a lack of available players. It really is a shame that the Wentworth golf course, that not so long ago proudly boasted the best greens in the district and were such a delight to play on, have fallen on such hard times. The main reasons appear to be, lack of finance due to low membership, lack of members and green fee players due to the distance from Mildura and the superior condition of courses such as Coomealla, Mildura and Riverside and the condition of the golf course due to lack of funds, drought, then rain and flooding this year causing disease in the greens. At the end of the day the people of Wentworth including the Wentworth Services Sporting Club, Wentworth Regional Tourism, Wentworth Council and indeed the people of Wentworth have to decide if they really want such a wonderful facility that the golf course was and can be again. If all parties can't come to the same conclusion and investigate every avenue to restore the golf course to its original standard, then the golf club committee will have no option but to put up their hands and become another victim of supply and demand.
RIVERSIDE TESTS PENNANT FAVOURITES MILDURA
The Sunraysia District Golf Association pennant season began on the weekend with only four clubs represented in divisions one and two. In division one Coomealla gave Broken Hill a drubbing 5/0 with the Broken Hill contingent down a few of their top players on recent seasons. In the other contest host club Riverside almost overcame pennant favourites Mildura. Andrew Stewart was able to hold off Riverside club champion Chris Thomas to win at the 18th and give Mildura a 3/2 victory. Cam Stewart and Tim Walker were the other winners for the black and gold whilst Dave Woolcock and Robert Veit won for the green and gold's. Pennant goes into recess this week but continues at Robinvale on Sunday June 19. Divisions three and four are played off handicap and this year seem to be more popular than ever before. This is good in one respect but if the top two divisions continue to disintegrate it might finish up as the ladies pennant has with everyone playing handicap pennant. That really would be a shame. With the delays that occurred at Riverside on Sunday hopefully Robinvale will have starters on the tees to keep players moving and not have teams standing around for seventy five minutes waiting for their tee off.
HANDICAPPING SYSTEM TO BE "TWEAKED"
Golf Australia recently announced that the current handicapping system will be "tweaked" to accommodate and become more closely aligned to the way we play golf in Australia. Basically in America they play stroke and handicap golf, whereas in Australia we play more stableford and to a lesser degree par competitions. As such Golf Australia will change the handicapping system on September 21 to handicap players on their best 8 of their last 20 rounds instead of best 10. Furthermore the bonus for excellence multiplier will go from 0.96 to 0.93. Additionally an anchor will also be introduced so that a player will only be allowed to go out a maximum of four stokes on their handicap in a 12 month period. There is no doubt that Golf Australia put the cart before the horse when they didn't re-rate our golf courses before introducing the slope handicapping system. Perhaps when all courses are finally re-rated then we might see the benefits of the system. So far it is difficult to see how the new system has been a step forward.
McDOWELL SLIPS UP IN TITLE DEFENCE
Last year Graeme McDowell won the Wales Open with closing rounds of 63-64 which propelled him into the US Open at Pebble Beach two weeks later, that he then duly won. This year he has been playing OK but nothing of that ilk. On Thursday he lined up at Celtic Manor to defend his title and began really well to be only one off the pace at the halfway mark with 67-68. Everyone was left flabbergasted though, when he returned an 81 on Saturday to drop way down the leader board. On Sunday he recovered with a 71 but the bird had long gone. McDowell now has ten days to repair the damage in preparation for his US Open defence at Congressional Golf Club. Sweden's Alexander Noren won the tournament but Elliot Saltman was another major talking point after he holed out two days in a row on the par three 17th. This was his first tournament back after receiving a three month suspension in the Russian Open for a rules infringement.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The scoring was red hot this week for the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week. At Wentworth Maureen Bailey came in with 43 points, not bad, but two off the pace. At Coomealla Adrian Bennett, Thelma Giro and Kym Doherty all had nine better than their handicap. Tim Peterson parred the course which was even more commendable when you consider he had a nine on the par four 14th! This week though, the winner is Merbein stalwart Col Lang who had 45 points. Col can collect he prize of four Sunraysia Golf Club laminated placemats from the Sunraysia Golf Range 437 Ontario Avenue Mildura by Friday.
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Good golfing to all.

1/6/11

RED CLIFFS REIGN IN LADIES PENNANT
Red Cliffs Golf Club won both Sunday and Monday NWWG pennants after the last rounds were played at the Mildura Golf Club Resort. On Sunday Coomealla had to win against Riverside Green whose Captain had celebrated a half century with her team mates the night before. Even though it wasn't the best preparation in an elite athletes sense, it didn't hold the girls back and the "greens" overcame Coomy with the skipper Marg Lampard winning on the 18th against Sandy Waters to sink any Coomealla aspirations. With Coomealla out of the way Red Cliffs edged past Riverside Gold 3/2 to finish top of the table by two points from Riverside Green. On Monday it was also very close and again Coomealla couldn't close the deal losing to Riverside Green 4/1. In the other contest Wentworth surprised ladder leaders Red Cliffs when they were too good in winning 3/2. Lee Bottomly,Maureen Baily and Pam Turner held too many guns for the Cliffs with only Linda hickey and Sandra Marwood showing enough resistance. With Coomealla losing Red Cliffs were able to maintain a two point advantage from Riverside Gold with Wentworth, Coomealla and Riverside Green only one point further back. It is unclear what will happen with NWWG pennant next year but one thing is certain and that is that the players and the clubs really need to sit down with the NWWG and wotk out what is going to be the best strategy going forward.
WALKER IN A CANTER AT ROBINVALE
Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker 70-71-141 won for the second time this year when he won the Robinvale Open on Sunday. Walker won comfortably by five strokes from club mate Justin McPhee 73-73 who had won at Red Cliffs last week. Robinvale's Open is different to any other local club as the full 36 holes are completed in the one day on Sunday. Only 34 players teed it up this year which is disappointing but as mentioned on a regular basis in this column, very little is done by the clubs to promote and advertise their major events either inside or outside of our district. On Sunday Tim Walker played very well against quality opposition from McPhee and Cameron Stewart, parring the course in the morning and one over par in the afternoon. The afternoon round could have been so much better as he was three under par but four late bogeys soured his day somewhat. Walker has improved steadily over recent months. No doubt playing with Greg Rhodes in several Opens in recent weeks has been valuable for him. It has been a great week for the year 12 golfer who has just been chosen for the second year in the Victorian State Schoolboys team that will play in the Australian Schoolboys Championships at Glenelg Golf Club in September. Last year the championship was played at Port Macquarie Golf Club with Victoria finishing third. This year all of the major schools including Catholic colleges were included giving the selectors more scope to pick the States absolute best six boy team. For Tim to make the team after playing in lead up tournaments at Rich River and Eastern in Melbourne is even more meritorious. The selection critera includes those performances and also takes into account his scores over the last 12 months. Whilst Queensland and New South Wales have always dominated these championships the Vic's feel more confident this year with the inclusion of several State players who weren't able to be chosen last year because their schools wern't involved.
MILDURA FAVOURITES IN MEN'S PENNANT
Men's SDGA pennant commences this weekend with divisions 3 and 4 playing at Merbein on Saturday and all four divisions playing at Riverside on Sunday. Coomealla has been the standout team in division 1 in recent years but this will change this year with the inclusion of Tim Walker into the Mildura team. Ash Whitehouse, Cam and Andy Stewart and Walker will give Coomealla a real run for their money. Coomealla has Sean Baumgurtel who has played minimal golf in the last 12 months, Jacob Slimmon who has been playing football and hardly seen a golf course for a while, Tim Peterson who is back playing after a season of football, Leigh Fuller who also hasn't played a lot this year and Ryan Laird who plays most of his golf out of the district but at a higher level. Broken Hill and Riverside will struggle against Mildura and Coomealla but at least they will have teams representing them. In the other divisions it will depend on who is available as to the strength of the teams but Coomealla, Red Cliffs and Wentworth should fight out division two.
ALAN SCORER SUNRAYSIA COUNTRY WEEK TEAM MANAGER
Coomealla's Alan Scorer takes over from Trevor Carroll as the new SDGA Country Week Team manager. Scorer comes into the position well credentialled as a recent Captain of the Coomealla Golf Club where he did an excellent job. Team Captain Justin McPhee who was said to be relinquishing his position attended the team's first meeting recently giving an indication that he may be staying. Let's hope so because the team can ill afford to lose his ability and experience.
DONALD BREAKS DUCK AT WENTWORTH
Englishman Luke Donald is the new world number one after winning the BMW PGA at Wentworth Golf Club in England on Sunday. He takes over as the third world number one since April after Martin Kaymer and Lee Westwood swapped spots at the top. Donald won in a playoff against Westwood after Westwood drowned his ball off the green into a pond. This resulted in a double bogey leaving Donald two putts for par and victory. Paul Casey was third giving England the top three placings in this tournament for the first time since 1974. The next big world event in golf is the US Open at Congressional Golf Club in two weeks time.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
There were no less than seven players who had six better than their handicaps last week to put themselves in contention for the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week. That was until Coomealla's Paul Modica and Merbein's Adrian Rudd and Rodney Poole came in with seven better than handicap. In a toss of the coin Rodney Poole is the lucky winner this week of four Sunraysia Golf Course placemats which must be collected by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range at 347 Ontario Ave Mildura.
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Good golfing to all.

25/5/11

McPHEE/SUNRAYSIA WIN AT RED CLIFF
Justin McPhee spearheaded the Sunraysia team against the Riverland Golf Association when they took out the fifteenTH contest for the Doherty/McInnes Cup played in conjunction with the Red Open at the weekend. After losing to the Riverland for only the second time last year our lads completely white washed the South Australians on the wet and windy Red Cliffs course. On Saturday Andy Stewart and Greg Rhodes headed the leaderboard with one under 71's. McPhee and Cameron Stewart were next on 73 with Tim Walker and Coomealla's Phil Moisidis on 74. Because of the medal matchplay format of the Doherty/McInnes there wasn't a seeded group on Sunday. This meant that the leading players were on different sides of the golf course unaware of how their opponents were scoring. Rhodes and Andy Stewart were playing together and finished on the 9th hole after Rhodes had three putted eight, then bogeyed nine for a 76. McPhee later finished on 18 and completed his second 73 of the weekend giving him a one stroke victory on his home course. This was a great effort by McPhee as the wind and rain on Sunday was quite challenging. His round of 73 was three shots better than anyone else on the day. It was a big week for the Red Cliffs golf club with ladies pennant on the previous Sunday and Monday, Tri-State Masters on the Monday, Red Shield Day on Friday then the Open at the weekend. Well done to all concerned for a wonderful week of golf and hospitality. It's why they call Red Cliffs the friendly golf club.
Top 10 Scratch - Justin McPhee 146, Greg Rhodes 147, Cameron Stewart, Tim Walker 151, Andrew Stewart, Phil Moisidis 152, Ash Whitehouse 154, Robert Veit 156, Sean Baumgurtel 157, Leigh Fuller 163.
Top 10 Handicap- Phil Moisidis 138, Mal Blagus 139, Tom Minns 142, J McPhee, A Stewart, Neville Walker, Jason Hartley 144, T Lees, N Hodson 146, John Fletcher 147.
LADIES WINTER PENNANT WINTRY AT COOMEALLA
Coomealla Golf Club hosted round four of North West Women's Golf on Sunday and Monday. In cold, wet and windy conditions it was real golf weather. In both sections this year the top team at the completion of round five will be declared the pennant winners. It was therefore most disappointing that Mildura forfeited their contest against Red Cliffs on Sunday. This shows a complete lack of respect, not only to their opposition (Red Cliffs) but also a disrespect to their own club and all other clubs in the competition. In the SDGA there have been fines and sanctions in past years for this action but the NWWG have nothing as such in place in their rules. With regard to the ladies and teams that did front up to play, Red Cliffs are now favoured to take out both pennants. This Sunday at Mildura Golf Club Resort Coomealla play Riverside Green in what should be an absolute cracker of a contest. Coomealla must win and win well to have any chance of finishing on top. This match could go either way. Red Cliffs will then play Riverside Gold and appear too strong on paper. In Monday pennant Red Cliffs face Wentworth who have had some good results this year. The Cliffs have more incentive though, and should win. In the second contest Coomealla look to have more fire power up against Riverside Green but will be hoping for Wentworth to do them a favour in the other match.
TRI-STATE MASTERS - MEMORIES AND DREAMS
Every year at the Tri-State Masters opening Cocktail Party at the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club it is like a reunion, for many, but more particularly for Kym and I, as people we regard as friends come back for the tournament. Some folk don't come up for the tournament because of a variety of reasons, so when they do it is very nice to welcome them back. This year there was a real buzz at the functions and everyone seemed really happy. It made us feel really good. When we launched this event in 1993 we really didn't know where it would go or how long it would last, but here we are 20 years later planning out 20th. It has been an incredible journey, bringing together over 1300 different people from over 180 golf clubs who will have played in the event on average almost four times. Next year we will welcome our 5000th player, pretty good for an idea that became a reality with the help of my good friend John Daffy. Northern Golf Club's Peter Fox is the only one to have played in every Tri-State Masters tournament so far. More than 40 people have played at least ten times and more than 120 five times. It will be a big thrill for Peter, and us, when he turns up next year for the 20th time. Don and Janine Sanford from Rosebud Country Club hadn't been for eight years but there they were on Sunday night. Dennis and Beth Watson from Kurri Kurri hadn't been since 2007 but they were here to collect their ten year awards. Heidelberg's John Deviny has always been one of our favourite people in the tournament and he was there after eight years with his partner Jan Shrimpton who is the ladies president at Heidelberg. On Friday night five people accepted 10 year awards and nine people collected 5 year pins. Next year we are expecting between 250-260 to play in the 20th Tri-State Masters, the hard work has already begun to make sure that this tournament is our very best ever. This will be no small feat after 10 Sunraysia Matchplay Championships, 2004 Australian Veterans Championship, 3 Riverside Senior Pro Am's and a host of other golf events. The tournaments and events that we have organised in Mildura over the last twenty five years have involved almost 10,000 people. We have loved every minute of it. We hope you can join us to help make it a most memorable event. Mark it down now, the 20th Tri-State Masters on the 20th May 2012.
IAN POULTER 2011 VOLVO WORLD MATCHPLAY CHAMPION
England's Ian Poulter won the 2011 Volvo World Matchplay Championship in Spain on Sunday. Poulter who is arguably the most polished matchplay exponent in the world after several years as the outstanding player in the Ryder Cup. Countryman Luke Donald couldn't quite pull off the double after having won the Accenture Matchplay Championship in Arizona against Martin Kaymer in February. Donald was too good once again for Kaymer in the semi final on Sunday morning. Had Donald have beaten Poulter it would have moved him into number one in the world rankings but he now he sits at number two behind Lee Westwood with Kaymer third. This week at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Golf Club in England, all 12 of last year's winning European Ryder Cup team will be playing, plus last year's Captain Colin Montgomery and his successor Jose Maria Olazabal. Lee Westwood is still world number one but a win for either Donald or Kaymer would elevate them to the top spot. It will make compelling viewing.
SCOTLAND/IRELAND GOLF TOUR
Bookings for the Sunraysia Golf Tours Scotland /Ireland golf tour will close on June 3rd or before, once full. We can hardly wait - only 102 more sleeps till we fly out to Scotland. Eight world class golf venues, superb accommodation including two Castles. Visits to Edinburgh, St Andrews, Dublin, Waterford Crystal, Bunratty Castle and the Blarney Stone and so much more. It really will be a trip to remember.
SUNRAYSIAGOLFTOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Lots of golfers and subsequently rounds of golf to choose from for the Sunraysia Golf Tours - Round of the Week from this week. No less than 19 golfers scored better than seven shots better than their handicaps last week. Lois Briggs at Red Cliffs, Hans Schultz at Riverside and Marty Livingstone at Coomealla all had 9 shots better than their marks. Wentworth's Pam Turner is the unlucky one this week as she loses a countback on 47 points to Coomealla's Jeff Kelm who lost on a countback last week. Jeff can pick up his prize of four Sunraysia golf Course placemats from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave by Friday.
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Good Golfing to all.

21/5/11

TUNG TRIUMPHS IN TRI-STATE MASTERS
Coomealla's Craig Tung turned back the clock at Coomealla Golf Club on Friday when he won the 2011 Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters with scores of 76-77-77-230. It is twenty two years since he won the 1989 Coomealla Golf Club championship. The following year he went back to playing football for Merbein and returned to golf on and off over the next fifteen years. Tung only plays golf on Wednesday's, so three times in one week is a major increase for him. Beginning the last round three shots behind overnight leader John Keogh, it looked as though he would have to put the pressure on early to give himself a chance going into the last nine holes. Keogh decided to attack from the first hole and opened up with two quick birdies and a par. Tung was now six shots behind and wondering what he had to do to get back in the contest. Keogh then uncharacteristically began to implode as he bogeyed five of the next six holes to turn in 39. In golf when a competitor gets a sniff of a chance, the whole mindset changes. By the seventeenth hole Tung was two shots in front and looking home and hosed. It is never over though, till it's over, Tung then cut his drive out into the trees eventually making bogey and watched on as Keogh made a brilliant birdie. Every player dreams of being on the last hole of a major tournament with a chance to win. Keogh had the honour on the par three finishing hole giving him the advantage but he pulled his tee shot left, handing the over the opportunity to Tung who duly knocked it on, made par and won as Keogh wasn't able to get up and down to force a playoff. Keogh recorded rounds of 77-73-81-231. Tungs good friendDavid Gardiner was third after getting within two shots of the lead in the last round only to fade on the closing holes and Mt Barker's John Reynolds was fourth. Coomealla's Sue Laird was untroubled in winning her fifth Tri-State Masters title in five years after rounds of 79-76-78-233. Laird began the day only one shot in front of Portsea's Jenny Jeffreys, her steady play proved too much for Jeffrey's who struggled around the closing nine. Both Keogh and Jeffreys were rewarded for their efforts as they took out the over fifty Senior titles. Other winners were Coomealla's Graham McClellan A Grade, Drouin's Eric Robbins B Grade, Churchill Park's David Hall C Grade, Deniliquin's Bob Landy Veterans, Traralgon's Syd Payne Super Veterans, Coomealla's Janet Fumberger A Grade, Traralgon's Donna O'Brien B Grade, Deniliquin's Esther Bolton Veterans, Churchill Park's Andrea Hall Super Veterans. In the four person aggregate stableford David and Andrea Hall, Rex and Lynne Markby had the unbelievable score of 462 stableford points to win the Golf Guru GPS prizes from Traralgon's Glenn and Peggy Thomas, Syd and Christine Payne who won six nights at Quest Apartments for next year's 20th Tri-State Masters to be conducted from May 20. Sunraysia really put it's best foot forward last week with all of the visitors unanimous in their praise for the golf clubs, accommodation venues, restaurants and the superb weather. If all goes off to plan the Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters will have attracted over 5000 people to Sunraysia by the end of next year's tournament. This will have delivered between five and a half to six million dollars to our economy which, in a tourism sense, is worth twenty five to thirty million dollars. The promotion and awareness of the 20th Tri-State Masters will begin from June 1, it would be really fantastic if the Mildura City Council and it's Major Events department came on board to assist with the promotion of one of Sunraysia's most significant major events.

20/5/11

Keogh On Track For Tri-State Masters
Coomealla's John Keogh takes a three stroke lead into the last round of the Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters on his home course today after two rounds at Red Cliffs and Riverside Golf Clubs. Keogh has worked hard on his game in recent months reducing his handicap to a career low four last month. A brilliant back nine of 34 including a birdie on the 18th resurrected his score after a front nine 39. Keogh has played in several big tournaments recently and looks all set to notch his first big win. It won't be all plain sailing though, as his main rivals are also Coomealla boys. First round leader Craig Tung slipped back with a 77 but is relishing the opportunity to win his first major golf event for twenty years. Tung went out in 40 at Riverside but came home in 37 to right the ship somewhat. One shot further back is David Gardiner who made up ground on Wednesday at Riverside where he was previously club captain with 73. Gardiner parred the Coomealla course on Saturday and a repeat of that form today would almost be good enough to snatch the title. Portsea's Jenny Jeffreys pegged overnight leader Sue Laird back one shot when she returned a 75 to Lairds 76. Jeffreys parred the front nine but dropped three shots around the back. Laird did the opposite turning in 40 then parring the back nine. Today they will play head to head in what amounts virtually to a matchplay contest with only one stroke between them. Leaders in the stableford events are Coomealla's Janet Fumberger and Traralgon's Donna O'Brien. In the men's sections Gold Coast Golf Club's John Clift is narrowly in front in his section whilst Drouin's Eric Robins and Deniliquin's Bob Land lead the other grades. Forty three players bettered their handicap's at Riverside with the golf course set up beautifully for the tournament. Visiting players have been delighted with the golf courses, hospitality and of course, our wonderful weather, it will be 23 today. A shot gun start at 12-15 will get proceedings under way at Coomealla today with the Presentation Dinner at the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club tonight. All trophies for the week will be presented along with five year badges and ten year plates. Northern Golf Club's Peter Fox is the only player to compete in all 19 Tri-State Masters tournaments and is already looking forward to the 20 year celebrations next year.
Scores after 36 holes
Scratch - John Keogh Coomealla 77-73-150 Craig Tung Coomealla 76-77-153 David Gardiner Coomealla 81-73-154 John Reynolds Mt Barker 80-79-159
Stableford - A Grade John Clift Gold Coast 77 points John Keogh 76 Craig Tung 75
B Grade -Eric Robbins Drouin 81 points Dean Forsyth Riverside 77 Ross Clift Forster/Tuncurry 76 Syd Payne Traralgon 76 Trevor Rogers Coomealla 76
C Grade Bob Landy Deniliquin 82 David Hall Churchill Park 80 Glen Thomas Traralgon 79
Ladies Scratch - Sue Laird Coomealla 79-76-155 Jenny Jeffreys Portsea 81-75-156
Stableford - A Grade Janet Fumberger 76 Sue Laird 74 B Grade Donna O'Brien Traralgon 80 Peg Thomas Traralgon 79 Esther Bolton Deniliquin 77

18/5/11

Red Cliffs In Top Gear in Ladies Pennant
Red Cliffs moved to outright favourites to win the NWWG's winter pennant after thrashing Coomealla at Riverside on Monday. Both teams were on equal points at the start of the day but things turned sour very quickly for the NSW bunch. Three matches went to the 18th with the Cliffs up each time through Sally Jones, Sheryl Blagus and Sandra Marwood over Marg Baird, Jill Forster and Marg Midgley. Fay Ross and Linda Hickey had more comfortable wins over Dawn Jackson and Helen Barnes. Wentworth moved into second place on the ladder when they won 4/1 over Ouyen. In the third match Riverside Gold earn bragging rights over Riverside Green when they won 3/2. In Sunday pennant it looks like being a Riverside Green type year after they knocked over Red Cliffs on Sunday. Although trailing Coomealla on the ladder, the NSW team has a bye this week which gives Green the chance to move into top spot. Coomealla's top three players were too good for their Mildura opponents winning 3/2. Coomy will be hoping for a Green loss this Sunday to keep them in the hunt for the pennant. The second last round of ladies pennant this Sunday and Monday is at Coomealla and concludes the following week.
Mabel Crouch Wins Coomealla Open
Mildura's queen of consistency Mabel Crouch won the Coomealla Open last Wednesday by one stroke from Sue Laird. 78 ladies took to the tough Coomealla circuit with only ten per cent bettering their handicap on the day. Mabel Crouch is always around the mark but that usually falls just short of some of the top liners in ladies golf. It was terrific to see her break through in such a major event. Laird double bogeyed the last hole proving very costly but she would agree that 85 doesn't really deserve to win an Open, unless of course it is the best score of the day.
Boilover at Riverside In Lever, Blair Seeley
Former Riverside club champion Steve Wilmann teamed up with clubmate Alan McMaster to win the prestigious Lever Cup at Riverside on Saturday. The Riverside duo combined for an excellent five under par 67 in the best ball format. Runners up one shot behind was the unlikely pair of Dave Woolcock and Kelvin Wilson. Woolcock shot the lights out with a personal best ever score of 69. Wilson wasn't just along for the ride as his score was used on two holes! Michael Nott and Andrew Diwell combined for a +13 in the Blair/Seeley to win from Craig Blanch and Rob Garioch on +12. Fortunately the Riverside members supported the event reasonably well but less than 25% of the field were from other clubs. Clearly the SDGA have to start promoting their major events. It's is not that hard as they only have their Open, Lever Blair/Seeley and a couple of mixed events. Mind you, only Riverside and Mildura publish their results in the Melbourne Sun Herald and Age. The cost to do so is the cost of a fax but the promotion and awareness of our clubs would be quite significant. Have a look in these papers each day and you will see some of the smallest clubs in Victoria in, amongst all the major Metropolitan clubs. No, it's not that hard, so how about it SDGA and clubs?
Laird and Tung In Front in Tri-State Masters
Sue Laird is on track for her fifth Tri-State Masters Championship after taking a two shot lead at Red Cliffs on Monday. Portsea's Jenny Jeffreys got off to a great start but limped home around the back nine for an 81. Two shots is nothing and it will depend on what happens at Riverside today. Jeffreys has played her best golf in this tournament at Riverside so she will hoping to turn the tables on her arch rival. Good scores in the stableford sections came from Traralgon's Peggy Thomas who had 41 points as did Deniliquin's Esther Bolton. Next best all on 40 points were Jane Derham Royal Melbourne, Donna O'Brien Traralgon and Wilma Saunders Gisborne. In the men's championship 1989 Coomealla club champion Craig Tung had a respectable 76 to lead by one shot from Coomealla clubmate John Keogh. Tung could easily have had much better if he'd got more co-operation from his putter. His playing partners testified that 76 was the worst he could have had. Keogh was steady turning two over then dropping a further three shots around the back nine. 2009 champion Steve Spooner showed that he has eyes for another title when he quietly went about his business for a 78. 2010 champion Peter Bywaters is also around about with a 79. The second round has been his best over the last couple of years so he could be the man to watch today. Mt Barker's John Reynolds scorched around the first nine getting to one under par but blotted his copybook around the back finally finishing with an 80 to still be only four shots behind. Good scores in the stableford sections came from Glen Thomas Traralgon who matches his wife's 41 points, Bob Landy Deniliquin 40 and David Hall Churchill Park, Neil Saunders Coomealla and Red cliffs chopper chase all on 39 points. The Red Cliffs golf club, it's members and green staff are to be commended on the warm hospitality and course set up. The general consensus was summed up by the Gold Coast's John Clift who said "I had never heard of red Cliffs until today but I loved the course and friendliness of everyone here. I will be back and will bring more friends with me". Yesterday a 4BBB stableford was played at Riverside Golf Club, round two of the tournament is at Riverside today, tomorrow there will be an ambrose at Coomealla where round three will be played on Friday.
Choi Takes Players in a Playoff
K J Choi was the man of the moment on Sunday at TPC Sawgrass in Jacksonville Florida when he won the Players Championship in a playoff with David Toms. Choi has got the coldest eyes in golf and a steely self discipline that he takes to the golf course each week. Several years ago he employed Australia's Steven Bann as his coach with the main objective to gain more distance so he could be more competitive in the four majors. Bann had declared last week that he was ready to win as had his caddy Andy Prodger. Prodger was on Nick Faldo's bag when he won the British Open at Muirfield and the US Masters in 1989. Prodger has now been on the bag for 41 wins worldwide and caddied for Colin Montgomery before he moved over to Choi, two more different pro's you would never find. The Players Championship was headlines from day one with world number one Lee Westwood and Rory McIlroy opting not to play, then Tiger Woods withdrew after nine holes. To cap it all off one of America's favourite players David Toms three putts to loose a playoff.
Sunraysia Golf Tours - Round of the Week
This weeks Sunraysia Golf Tours - Round of the Week came down to a play off. Coming in third were Steve Pongrac at Mildura and Riverside's wily old soldier Kevin Welsh who both had 43 points. At Coomealla on Sunday Jeff Kelm had 44 points to tie with Merbein's Phil Matotek who blitzed the monthly medal field at Merbein with a nett 64. On the basis of a Sunday stableford versus a stroke monthly medal Matotek must get the nod. Phil can pick up his prize of four Sunraysia golf clubs placemats from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura by Friday.
Contact me with any golfing stories, information or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

11/5/11

Coomealla ON TOP IN NWWG PENNANT
Coomealla Golf Club head the ladders on both Sunday and Monday of North West Womens Golf ladies pennant. In Sunday pennant Coomealla is in top spot on 9 points each from Riverside Gold on 7 points then Riverside Green and Red Cliffs on 6 points. Any one of these four teams could still win the pennant. Coomealla's Nycole Riordan and Linda Jakuban both had strong wins against Riverside Gold who had only Linda Dickson flying the green and gold flag. In the second match Riverside Green were too strong for Mildura with Marg Lampard, Heather Klemm and Sandy Briggs on top for Riverside Green and Heather Thomas and Maree Irvin standing firm for Mildura. In Monday pennant Coomealla and Red Cliffs head the table on 14 points from Wentworth on 9 points with three rounds to go. Red Cliffs toppled Riverside Green at home with good wins from Sally Jones, Sheryl Blagus and Sandra Marwood whilst for Riverside Janet Luke and Verna Wakefield kept their ends up. In the other two contests Coomealla had an easy win over Wentworth and Riverside Gold had no trouble accounting for Ouyen.
LAIRD TOO GOOD AT RED CLIFFS
Coomealla's Sue Laird was a class above everyone else at Red Cliffs last week in the 2011 Red Cliffs Ladies 27 hole Open. Scores of 77-40 is good shooting on the long Red Cliffs course. On top of her win Sue celebrated her first ever hole in one on the difficult par 3 17th. Mildura's Mabel Crouch was runner up with 89-44. Unfortunately very few of the ladies Country Teams squad ventured out to Red Cliffs to put any pressure on Laird who is racking up lots of Open wins since her debut year of 2005. Many ladies are now employed mid week which makes it difficult to attend the mid week Opens. Perhaps it is time for the NWWG to start thinking a little bit outside the square and put a few ladies Opens on a Sunday to see if that makes a difference.
LEVER BLAIR SEELEY
The time honoured Lever Blair Seeley 4BBB championship will be played at Riverside on Saturday. It is doubtful that anyone who has played with distinction in Sunraysia hasn't featured on one of these cups. In the 50's, 60's,70's and early 80's the scratch section of the tournament was much sought after and you really needed to play well to have your names etched on the silver ware. Two more pairs will add their names to the stars of yesteryear on Saturday. Entries so far have been very good and an excellent field looks assured. Morning and afternoon play is available, give Jack Thomas a call on 50 231560 to book in.
TRI-STATE MASTERS
The 19th annual Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters hits off next Monday and we are receiving lots of excited phone calls from people all over Australia with only four sleeps to go. Forty six new faces will play in the Tri-State Masters this year with six first time clubs represented including Gold Coast Country Club, Forster/Tuncurry, The Sands Torquay, Tocumwal, Medway, Centenary Park and Robinvale golf clubs. Players from Mahunga in Masterton New Zealand, Melville Glades in Perth, Kurri Kurri in the Hunter Valley, Royal Melbourne, Grange in Adelaide and a big contingent this year from Traralgon and Drouin will congregate at Red Cliffs, Riverside and Coomealla.SEVE - GOLFING GENIUS
Seve Ballesteros passed away on Saturday from brain cancer at only 54 years of age but left behind a legacy that will live on for many years to come. Seve, along with Lee Trevino and to a lesser extent Ben Hogan have been my golfing hero's for more than twenty five years. Seve first grabbed my attention on the television doing a show called Pro Celebrity Golf with Lee Trevino and commentator Peter Alliss at the Gleneagles Resort in Scotland in the 70's and 80's. Each week Ballesteros and Trevino would partner guests such as Sean Connery and Ronnie Corbett and mainly English movie stars and comedians. Whilst the combatants took the matches seriously there was always a bit of fun involved from all, except one, Seve. Seve was intense and took it very seriously and wanted to win every match. Trevino was more relaxed and understood the entertainment aspect of the matches that essentially were played as a television show. Trevino though, was also a fierce competitor. The producers couldn't have paired two golf professionals who were more different personality wise, if they had tried, but maybe they had. It was great television. When Corbett partnered Seve there an hilarious scene when, as he took the club away to hit the ball his weight went backwards with the club and he fell completely over. Everyone on the golf course roared with laughter, except one, Seve was not at all amused. I have read so many tributes to Seve since Saturday and the words genius, swashbuckling, brilliant, passionate and inspirational are mentioned most frequently. Seve was the heart and soul of the European Ryder Cup teams that plays against the US every two years. Before Seve came on the scene the US would flog Europe unmercifully. Seve changed all that. Europe have held a dominance in this event for more than twenty years, it probably is THE biggest golf event in the world these days and Seve played such a huge part in its growth and popularity. As a golfer Seve forged his reputation by really taking it up to the Yanks in American tournaments, winning two US Masters, three British Open's and an outstanding record in the Ryder Cup. He played golf with flair that has probably only be equalled by Arnold Palmer and Greg Norman. There has been no one with as much imagination or creativity in inventing ways of getting out of trouble than Seve. His philosophy was hit it, go find it, hit it again from where ever and do it in as few shots as possible. None of this boring, down the middle on the green for Seve. He used to hit it from temporary car parks and all sorts of places. People would follow him like the Pied Piper and more often than not he would pull off a miraculous recovery time after time and win again. Like a lot of people I am a sucker for the underdog but when Seve was in full flight on a golf course it was well nigh impossible to notice anyone else. Ironically Seve passed away during the Spanish Open with several of his countrymen and great friends including Jose Maria Olazabel and Miguel Angel Jimenez playing in the tournament.
THE FIFTH MAJOR - OR IS IT?
The Tournament Players championship at TPC Sawgrass in Jacksonville Florida is regarded by the Americans as the fifth major behind the US Masters, US Open, British Open and the US PGA. Trouble is, they are the only ones who think of it as such. Sure, it is well regarded as in the next group of maybe five tournaments but fifth major is a bit of a stretch. The US has only produced one winner (Phil Mickelson 2007) in the last six years so they are cock a hoop on winning it with one of their own this year. The par 3 17th is the most photographed hole in the world and being completely surrounded by water it gets everyone's attention, particularly the players. Last year Robert Allenby finished second but Adam Scott is the last Aussie to win here in 2004 and I wouldn't be surprised if he does it again this week. Go Scotty!
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Winter conditions must be affecting the scores on district courses or perhaps normality is resurfacing after some extremely high scores in recent months. Five players played seven shots better than their handicaps this week including Riverside's Les Ball, Kevin Welsh, George Riordan, Ryan Tulloch and Mildura's Brian Murnane. Out at Coomealla Greg Butcher cleaned up in the daily competition, lots of golf bets and his usual skiting with the aplomb of a reasonably good golfer when he scored his best ever round at Coomealla of 45 points. Hopefully he hasn't peaked a week early! Butch wins the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week and must collect his prize of four laminated placemats of Sunraysia golf courses by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura.
Contact me with your golfing information, stories or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au.
Good golfing to all.

4/5/11

JOURNEY CONTINUES FOR RHODES
The 2011 Merbein Open played at the Mildura Golf Club Resort was another resounding success for both clubs. Greg Rhodes won last year and was eager to go back to back as he has done in so many tournaments before. To accomplish that he needed to improve significantly on his previous rounds of 75-73 in the Mildura Open two weeks prior. The first round began well for the champion when he returned a three under par 69 to go to bed one shot clear of Cameron Stewart and two in front of Tim Walker. Riverside Open champion Justin McPhee was next on 73 and Mildura junior Shay Toma on 75. The seeded group went off on Sunday with all four players feeling confident of a win. For Rhodes it would become another step in a journey that began almost thirty years ago. For Tim Walker it was a chance to go back to back after winning at Mildura two weeks ago. Justin McPhee was also aiming at back to back wins as he hadn't played since his win at Riverside. For Cameron Stewart it was another opportunity to climb the mountain and win after being so consistent and in contention yet again. In the first nine holes the equilibrium remained with Rhodes still in front but only barely. The back nine holes in any tournament is when it all happens, this is when Rhodes asserted his authority. On the difficult par four sixteenth Rhodes was disappointed when he left his second shot way short of the pin. This disappointment quickly dissolved after he drained a 25 footer for birdie. The others all made bogey meaning a two shot swing left the champ in front comfortably. Rhodes is not renowned for his putting but, his lag putting is first class, like many golfers though, it often deteriorates the closer he gets to the pin. On the long par 5 seventeenth Rhodes, who is double and in Tim Walkers case triple, the age of his playing partners knocked his tee shot 20 metres plus past all three off the tee. Any chance of a turnaround was snuffed out right there. In the end Rhodes recorded another fine 69 to finish six under par for 36 holes of championship golf. That score would be hard to beat in any amateur golf tournament. Runner up was Tim Walker who stood up well under his own and others expectations, until the last four holes when he dropped four shots to finish with 74. Cameron Stewart was third after a disappointing 76. Look out for him at Red Cliffs where he has won before. In fourth spot was promising junior Shay Toma who had 75-72 to record the second best round of the day on Sunday. Toma has obvious ability and if he can focus and work hard on his golf he will become a very good golfer. The Red Cliffs Open is the next major Open on the district agenda on May 21-22. The Red Cliffs Golf Club are very excited with the condition of the golf course and will host the first round of the Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters on Monday May 16. The club is hoping that with the vast improvement of the course over the last twelve months that the Golf Week committee will see fit to include Red Cliff on the Golf Week programme.
TOP 10 Greg Rhodes 138,
Tim Walker 145,
Cameron Stewart 146,
Shay Toma 147,
Justin McPhee 149, Ashley Whitehouse 149,
Tim Peterson 153,
John Keogh 156,
Tyler Verbeek 158, Robert Veit,
David Filippi 160.
TOP 10 Handicap - Shay Toma 137,
Andrew Hill, Ian Syme, Greg Rhodes 138,
Greg McCubbin 141,
David Filippi, Frank Crouch, Barry Pilgrim 142,
Josef Moisidis, Steve Crawford 143
NORTH WEST WOMEN'S GOLF PENNANT
Pennant hit off at Wentworth on Sunday and Monday and contrary to some reports, the golf course was in very good nick, give or take a few bare patches on some of the greens. Ladies pennant is suffering at the moment from a lack of interest from many lady golfers. The cause is a lack of new younger ladies playing golf, the new ones that have taken up the game are unable to commit to pennant due to employment and or family duties. Subsequently it falls back on many ladies who have played pennant for years and are just over it. Mildura Golf Club Resort has one of the bigger ladies membership and they cannot raise five ladies for Monday pennant, which is most disappointing. Let's face it though, you can't force people to play if they don't want to. Riverside on the other hand have two teams in for Sunday pennant and two more for Monday pennant. Another issue is that rather than play off straight handicaps, this year the ladies play off 7/8's of their handicap. Sixty per cent of the ladies giving shots actually won their matches, so it really wasn't a huge issue as some of the ladies who aren't playing had insisted. For the record Riverside and Red Cliffs won on Sunday and on Monday Wentworth, Coomealla and Red Cliffs came out in front. Coomealla's Nycole Riordan had a brief interruption in her match against Red Cliffs Marion Pengelly when she had to shoo a rabbit away from her ball so she could play a shot. No truth in the rumour that Marion came over and asked Nycole "What's up doc". Some of the new players having a go include Wentworth's Lee Bottomly who is really going ahead in leaps and bounds with her golf. Riverside's diminutive Fiona Turlan and Tracey Hywood who has played really well at both Coomealla and Riverside since arriving in the district last year. Tracey Wright is another newcomer doing well at Red Cliffs and is a real bandit on 39! Linda Jakubans at Coomealla who is improving her golf on a weekly basis. Next Sunday/Monday pennant will be at Red Cliffs with Riverside the venue the following week.
BUBBA, WESTWOOD SHINE IN WORLD GOLF
Lee Westwood came from the clouds to win the Ballantine's Championship in Korea on the European Tour and reclaim his world number one ranking after losing it for a few weeks to Germany's Martin Kaymer. Westwood began the last round three shots behind Spain's Miguel Angel Jimenez after the third round had to be completed on Sunday morning due to a weather delay. Westwood's 67 was good enough to secure victory and he will now be eyeing off the Players Championship in the US and the US and British Open's. It is quite unusual to have a player number one in the world without ever having won one of the four major championships. Australia's Brett Rumford led by three shots after a second round 63 but fell back to eventually finish 7th. Back home in New Orleans it was Bubba Watson who won the Zurich Classic in a playoff with Webb Simpson. Simpson actually called a penalty on himself on the 72nd green when his ball move a half an inch after he had grounded his putter. No one else saw it move but he did and called the penalty. He subsequently went into a play off with Bubba and lost at the second extra hole to Bubba's birdie. Bubba Watson is an absolute beauty, a bit like Sam Snead when he first broke onto the US PGA Tour as if he'd just come straight down from the mountain. After the third round Bubba was interviewed and when the interviewer asked him what he had to do to win the following day he made a classic reply. Bubba said " I just have to go out and play better than the other guys. If someone plays better than me then they win. I just have to concentrate on what I am doing and play Bubba golf". Bubba did and Bubba won. This week the European tour moves to Spain and in the US to Alabama.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week could easily have gone to Greg Rhodes but there were some equally impressive handicap scores at four clubs last week. At Coomealla Alan Jenkinson and Dawn Jackson both had 43 points as did Graham Lohmeyer at Red Cliffs and Ian Syme at Mildura. John Wass made it interesting with 44 points at Riverside then Ralf Wagner looked a shoe in at Coomealla with 45 points until Robert Taylor went one better at Mildura. Bev Orford then put everyone else in the shade when she came in 11 better than her handicap with 47 points! Bev can pick up her prize of four Sunraysia Golf Club placemat prints from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario avenue by this Friday.
Contact me with any golfing information, stories or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

27/4/11

CAMERON STEWART ALL SET FOR MERBEIN OPEN
Cameron Stewart has been the most consistent player in district golf so far this year. Runner up finishes at Coomealla, Riverside and Mildura and an aggregate of three under par for 108 holes of Open tournament golf is a superb record. Two weeks ago his putter was the hottest club in local golf when he took only 23 putts in an opening round of 67 in the Mildura Open. He will need to have his putter in full control if he is to go one better on his home course this weekend when the Mildura Golf Club Resort will host the Merbein Open. It is a unique collaboration where the two clubs are helping each other for the third year in a row - Mildura with their golf course, administration and facilities and Merbein with the increased fields. Greg Rhodes won this tournament last year but his form over the last few weeks has been a bit scratchy. Tim Walker is the in form golfer with a 66 against his name for his last game. If, as they say, you are only as good as your last game then he is the man to beat? It is a far cry to come from behind than it is to be "the" man to beat. It will be interesting to see how the 17 year old carries that mantle. Rhodes has carried that burden with aplomb for nearly thirty years. Justin McPhee is back from two weeks holiday and will be keen to carry on from his last tournament win in the Riverside Open earlier this month. Chris Thomas is another up and comer who will be looking for another podium finish. 2010 runner up Ashley Whitehouse is a non starter due to work commitments. Entries to Mildura Golf Club Resort are still being taken but get in quickly or you will miss out.
NORTH WEST WOMEN'S GOLF PENNANT
The 2011 North West Women's pennant season hits off at Wentworth on Sunday and Monday. Sunday pennant has been popular with the ladies since it began several years ago, particularly for the ladies who can't play Monday pennant due to employment commitments. This year five teams will contest Sunday pennant and six teams will battle it out on Mondays. There will be just the one division with all contests being on a handicap basis. Its is disappointing that ladies pennant has dropped away with so few younger women taking up golf. Of the ones who have, most are employed and cannot play on a Monday. This year there will be no finals with the top team after the home and away fixture declared the pennant winners. Any lady looking to play pennant should contact their club or NWWG secretary Nycole Riordan on 50 210771.
MARCUS FRASER TO DEFEND IN KOREA
Australian Marcus Fraser will defend his Ballentine's Championship title in Korea this weekend. Last year the boy from Corowa led from start to finish but it will be a harder task this year with top quality golfers including World number one Lee Westwood, American Dustin Johnson, Ian Poulter, Ernie Els and Miguel Angel Jimenez in the field.
ZURICH CLASSIC IN NEW ORLEANS
Twelve Australians will tee it up in the Zurich Classic in New Orleans this week. England's Luke Donald will start favourite after leading then losing a play off on Sunday to Brandt Snedeker in the Heritage tournament at Harbour Town in South Carolina. Nick Watney and Bubba Watson loom as as Donald's biggest threats as he endeavours to claim the world number one ranking he would have assumed if he had won the playoff.
WORLD GOLF RANKINGS
1 Lee Westwood England
2 Martin Kaymer Germany
3 Luke Donald England
4 Phil Mickelson United States
5 Graeme McDowell Northern Ireland
6 Tiger Woods United States
7 Rory McIlroy Northern Ireland
8 Paul Casey England
9 Steve Stricker United States
10 Matt Kuchar United States
LADIES WORLD GOLF RANKINGS
1 Yani Tseng Taipea
2 Jiyai Shin Korea
3 Christie Kerr United States
4 Na Yeon Choi Korea
5 Suzann Pettersen Norway
6 Ai Miyazato Japan
7 I K Kim Korea
8 Karrie Webb Australia
9 Michelle Wie United States
10 Paula Creamer United States
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Coomealla and Merbein was the courses to be for low scores last week with great scores on the five competition days over Easter. At Red Cliffs Dave Abbott continued his good form with 44 points. At Riverside Aldo D'Amico had 44 points but Les Ball and club manager Jack Thomas both trumped everyone else with 45 points each. At Coomealla Ralph Wagner had two great scores of 43 and 45 points and Jan Hiscock recorded a nett 65. Linda Jakubans work with her swing coach Garth Doherty is really paying off as she had a massive 47 points which would usually win the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week. Out at Merbein Adrian Rudd had a nett 62 which was great golf but not as good as Colin Moore who had an amazing 59nett. Colin can collect his prize of four laminated placemats of Sunraysia's golf course from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by this Friday.
Contact me with your golf information, stories or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

21/4/11

WALKER AND STEWART LEAD AVERAGES
After three Sunraysia Open tournaments in 2011 Tim Walker and Cameron Stewart lead the averages. Stewart has been runner up in the first three events and surely must break through soon. The next Open tournament will be the Merbein Open to be played at the Mildura Golf Club Resort on April 30 - May 1.
1 Tim Walker Mildura + Cameron Stewart Mildura 71.5
3 Greg Rhodes Coomealla 72.16
4 Ashley Whitehouse Mildura 73
5 Justin McPhee Red Cliffs 73.75
6 Tim Peterson Coomealla 76
7 Andrew Stewart Mildura 76.83
8 Chris Thomas Riverside 78.25
9 Robert Veit Riverside 78.83
10 Tyler Verbeek Mildura 79.25

20/4/11

TIM WALKS IN AT THE MILDURA OPEN
Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker went into the Sunraysia golf record books on Sunday when he won the Mildura Golf Club Resort Open Tournament with a closing round 66! This is the lowest ever round recorded on the second day of a local club Open. Last year Ashley Whitehouse won the tournament after finishing with 67 on the second day. Before the tournament began Whitehouse and Greg Rhodes were favoured to win as both have excelled on the Mildura course over the past 25 years, Walker and Cameron Stewart were on the next line of the betting. It was Stewart though, who came out racing. Four under par in the first nine holes including one putting the first six was sensational golf. The second nine was not as productive but a one under 35 including a three putt bogey on 18, equalled Whitehouse's 67 last year. Whitehouse wasn't taking it lying down as he came in with 35-35 to be only three off the pace. Walker racked up two double bogey's in his opening 73 to be six back with Riverside's Chris Thomas. Tim Peterson was on 74 and Greg Rhodes was eight behind on 75. The talk on Saturday night and Sunday morning was whether Stewart could hold off Whitehouse playing head to head in the seeded group. Walker and Thomas were thought to be too far back. The seeded group hit off with all four players aiming at the same result but all with possibly different mindsets. Stewart was no doubt hoping that he could hold off the following pack as he has led several times, only to be overtaken by the finish line. Whitehouse would have been feeling confident that he could peg back Stewart who no doubt would have had a sleepless night. Walker would have been thinking that this was an opportunity to step up after some good performances in the last month. Thomas was relishing being in the seeded group ahead of top performers in Rhodes, Peterson and Andy Stewart. Walker was the first to take up the imitative turning two under par with Whitehouse one under and Stewart one over and Thomas two over par. This left Stewart still three shots clear of both Walker and Whitehouse with nine holes left. Walker really took over on the next six holes, carding four birdies and draining a 15 foot snake for par on the 17th to lead Stewart by two shots. The suspense went right through to the par 3 18th hole when Walker left his tee short of the green. Stewart then drilled his iron shot to 15 feet from the hole pin high. Walker looked nervous as he thinned his approach shot 12 feet past the hole, then waited with baited breath as Stewart putted for birdie. As the ball slid by the hole the look on both players faces told the story of the day. Tim Walker is the new "hot" player in Sunraysia golf. Cameron Stewart is a terrific golfer and a man that everyone wants to win a really big one, but it wasn't to be on Sunday. In the final analysis, as it always does in golf at this level, it came down to putting. On Saturday Stewart had just 23 putts but on Sunday he took seven more. Walker on the other hand had 29 putts on Saturday but only 26 on Sunday. Of the other contenders, Chris Thomas is an up and comer who will improve from Sunday's experience in the "big time" local golf. Ashley Whitehouse has always been the man most likely, he was in the box seat on Sunday but couldn't go with the new young colt who just bolted away. Tim Peterson 74-78 is still coming to terms with tournament golf after a year off playing football. Greg Rhodes 75-73 was out of sorts at the weekend and never a factor, which is really rare, for him. Every player will now be aware that this poor performance will make him all the more determined in the Merbein Open to be played at the Mildura Golf Club Resort on April 30 - May 1. Get you entry in soon as 163 players plus ladies teed it up on Saturday including 78 players from visiting golf clubs.
THE BOYS DOWN AT THE RANGE
The Sunraysia Golf Range opened it's door in November 2006 giving local and visiting golfers an excellent practice facility. Additionally it gave some of Sunraysia's most promising juniors an opportunity to earn some money as "ball boys" who go out and pick up the balls each night from the golf range. Up to 3000 balls can be hit in any one day! A ball picker on the front of a gator is used but on wet days the balls have to be retrieved manually with a hand picker. It's not easy work but the rewards far outweigh the physical labour. Garth Doherty provides all of the "ball boys' with free tuition, free use of the facilities and supports them most generously with their golf equipment purchases. Yesterday Garth spoke of the boys who have worked at the Sunraysia Golf Range "We have had some terrific you men working with us since we opened. I knew what the job entailed having worked as a ball boy at the original golf range in 11th street nearly 20 years ago. Not only does it give the lads some spending money but it also assists their development in many ways including their work ethic and attention to detail". Current "King" of the ball boys Tim Walker won at Mildura on Sunday using a new Callaway driver that he had only purchased the week before. Others to do well at the weekend were the laconic Luke Stanbrook and long Tom Holmes who both tied for second behind Tim in the Junior Championship of the tournament. Tyler Verbeek, was one shot further back but can do much better. In the past Jake Laubsch who was 2009 Coomealla Golf Club Champion and 2010 Sunraysia District Champion, Chris McGinty who was the youngest ever club champion at Merbein golf club, Regan Cavallaro and Ryan Haynes who were also promising golfers have also worked "down at the range". Naturally the talk from the kids is always about golf, much of it like the one that got away fishing stories. But on Sunday at the Mildura golf Club Resort, another Tin Cup (Sunraysia version) story may just have begun.
KEVIN NA - 16 OF THE WORST
The Texas open was played at the weekend and it is fair to say that Kevin Na who didn't make the 36 hole cut, made more headlines than first time winner Brendan Steele.Na who is regarded as quite an accomplished player on the US PGA Tour, racked up a 16 on the par four ninth hole In San Antonio. Na was only a few shots off the lead but took an unplayable drop after he found his tee shot, then hit a tree which ricocheted into him causing a two shot penalty then took five more shots just to get out of the trees onto the fairway. This was all happening on live television as he was the designated player of the day to be "miked up" for the TV coverage. To his credit he still finished with an eight over 80 which included several birdies on the back nine. For the record though, John Daly has the most shots by a top player cover with 18 on a Bay Hill's 6th hole par 5 at Arnold Palmer's tournament in 1998! Three other players including Arnie, Tom Weiskoph and Tommy Nakajima have recorded 13's. Makes you feel a bit better doesn't it, or does it? This week on the US PGA Tour the Heritage tournament will be played at Hilton Head South Carolina where twelve Aussies will tee it up.
MATTEO MANASSERO ON TOP IN MALAYSIA
The young Italian stallion Matteo Manassero won his second tournament on the European Tour on Sunday when he won the Malaysia Open. Manassero who turned 18 yesterday knocked off a quality field that included world number one Martin Kaymer, Charl Schwartel, Louis Oosthuizen and Rory McIlroy. Manassero together with McIlroy, Jason Day Ryo Ishikawa and Ricki Fowler are becoming the new face of world golf with many of the older legend type players dropping back. This week the Volvo China Open hits off with Padraig Harrington more than overdue to win again.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
There were some great scores returned in the Mildura Golf Club Resort Open at the weekend but none good enough to qualify for the Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the week. At Riverside Al Terrell, Keith Dickson and Jon Slatter all had 44 points. Good golf in anyone's language. At Red Cliffs, Melbourne visitor David Payne had 45 points to come in second on a countback to Riverside's Linda Dickson who also had 45. Linda can pick up her set of laminated Sunraysia golf course placemats from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave by Friday.
Contact me with you golfing information, stories or opinions on email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

13/4/11

2011 MILDURA GOLF CLUB RESORT TOURNAMENT - WIDE OPEN
The 2011 Mildura Golf Club Resort Open is a wide open affair this year. At least ten players are in with a realistic chance of taking out the title on Sunday. Justin McPhee has been in sparkling form, most recently winning the Riverside Open. McPhee finished like a train to topple Cameron Stewart at Riverside and is in red hot form. Greg Rhodes is always the man to beat and though he faltered slightly at Riverside, last weekend he won the Renmark Open with 74-71. Ashley Whitehouse missed the Riverside event but will be very keen to show the form that saw him win here in 2008 and 2010 when he had 74-69. Whitehouse seems to leave his best for his home course. Former Millewa footballer Tim Peterson is a past winner at Mildura in 2005 and 2009, after not playing last year he is sure to be ready for a strong assault on a third title. Throw in the Stewart brothers Cameron and Andrew and the districts top two juniors Tim Walker and Ryan Laird and a ding dong battle it should be. A score of two under par will be around the mark depending on the weather conditions. The Mildura Golf Club Resort has been the most popular local Open tournament over the last few years, so enter today or you will miss out.
US MASTERS - SIMPLY THE BEST
The US Masters is without doubt the best golf tournament of the year. South African Charl Schwartzel well and truly deserved his victory even though more than two million Australians were probably trying to wish him out of it on the last four holes. Jason Day, Adam Scott and Geoff Ogilvy were terrific but Schwartzel was better on the day and won the event. It is so much different to lose when you have played really well and got pipped than to do what Greg Norman became renowned for at Augusta as also happened on Sunday to Rory McIlroy. The 21 year old Irishman imploded on the 11th hole and couldn't recover. Golf is a severe test, it was sad to see but at 21 and with so much talent he will get many more chances. The US Masters is the only Major tournament of the four that is played at the same course every year so it is easier to plan your strategy. Of course, you must have a good plan, follow that up with the right preparation, then put the plan into action with exact execution during the tournament. The key to Augusta is course knowledge so Schwartzel and his best friend and fellow South African Louis Oosthuizen (2010 British Open champion) rented a house for a month in Georgia and practiced at Augusta almost daily. In particular they rehearsed the shots into the green and the putts to the pins that are basically in the same positions every year. Come day one and Scwartzel felt confident that he could emulate fellow countryman Trevor Immelman who won in 2009 and be in contention by the back nine on Sunday. Maybe the best ever performance in the Masters was by a 46 year old Jack Nicklaus in 1986 when he shot a closing 65 coming in four under par on the last four holes. Schwartzel also birdied all four closing holes for a closing 66 and further emphasised the strength of South African golf. Charl Schwartzel learnt all of his golfing habits as a junior growing up from his professional father George, who still to this day emphasises the basics. The five fundamentals he taught his son and contended that any swing fault will come from one of these areas include - right grip, right stance, good rhythm, good posture and good balance. Having watched the last round three times, it really stood out how well balanced Schwartzel was and how his posture and rhythm remained constant. On the other hand many other players including Tiger Woods looked to be trying to force shots and lost control. Woods though, played brilliantly on the front nine for a 31 but as the back nine went on, he dropped out of contention, consistent with his form since 2009 but completely the opposite to the younger Tiger. This weeks event on the US PGA Tour is the Texas Open where Adam Scott is the defending champion.
The next Major will be the US Open at Congressional Golf Club in June where Ernie Els last won in 1997.
PRESIDENTS CUP
Greg Norman's International Team is looking good seven months out from our contest with the US Team in November at Royal Melbourne. A catastrophe has been averted in the last week with the South African Open which was to be held on the same week as the Presidents Cup now rescheduled to the following week. The main strength of the team comes from South Africa where Ernie Els, Charl Schwarzel, Louis Oosthuizen, Reteif Goosen and Tim Clark are certainties to be in the team with another South African in with a strong chance of selection being Rory Sabbatini. All seven players were considering playing in their National Open and giving the Presidents Cup a miss. Australians who look assured of a place in the team are Robert Allenby, Adam Scott and Geoff Ogilvy. Aaron Baddeley and Stuart Appleby are also in the mix with Y E Yang, K J Choi, VJ Singh, Ryo Ishikawa and Carmillo Villegas. Each team has twelve players. The only victory the Internationals have enjoyed was at Royal Melbourne in 1998.
BARNBOUGLE DUNES A PLACE TO GOLF
Last Friday Kym and I returned home from our latest golfing adventure in Tasmania. Before the Tassie golf tour I had heard so much about Barnbougle Dunes where we stayed and played at the end of our tour. It was built loosely on the design of Royal County Down in Ireland. Having played Royal county Down and falling in love with that golf course, from afar I couldn't believe that a course in Australia could be any where near as good, so I couldn't wait to get to Barnbougle Dunes. Well, what a revelation it was. From the first hole the beauty of the course and surroundings takes your breath away. We played the course and it's neighbour Lost Farm in very calm conditions, which was a blessing to everyone on our tour but what a test they would be in the wind! Caddies are a forgotten part of golf in Australia apart from professional golf but hire one if you really want to have a chance of playing well at Barnbougle Dunes. My caddie at Lost Farm was Stan Smythe who has caddied more than 700 rounds at Barnbougle and Lost Farm. Stan and his wife ran an accommodation house in Bridport but once he had seen Barnbougle Dunes he promptly retired and turned up at the club asking if there was anything he could do. Hence he became Barnbougle Dunes first caddie in 2007. After we met and talked for a while he told me about his workplace and that "nothing can compare with the sight as you walk from the 4th green up onto the dune to the 5th tee. There 150 metres away is a school of dolphins on a flat calm ocean, or the sight of a large harvest moon in the early evening as it floods across the dunes and fairways This is my office where I come to work every day. It is my heaven on earth" he said. Stan had many golfing stories having caddied for many colourful people from all walks of life including Malcolm Fraser, Alan Border, Paul McNamee and a host of other top sportsmen, television and movie stars, his son lives in Melbourne and is married to Wayne Carey's sister. More than 25,000 golfers played at Barnbougle last year with ten per cent of them flying directly onto the club's airstrip from Moorabbin airport. Now that Lost Farm is open for business that number will at least double within two years. When the US Golf Channel turned up to do a feature on Barnbougle they were introduced to the clubs first ever caddie Stan Smythe who recited for them a piece that he had written about the links. This poem was replayed on American television and since then the club receives many requests from visiting Americans enquiring if they can meet and hire Barnbougles "caddie poet". This is Stan's poem.
As the sun sets slowly over the dune.
The company good and my swing is in tune.
All around me is beauty like I've never seen.
It's on every tee bed, every fairway and green.
There's lovely sea birds and wild life abound.
And the waves on the seashore make a mystical scene.
I must be in heaven, are they angels tunes?
No, it's just the wind through the marram grass.
At "Barnbougle Dunes".
Sunraysia Golf Tours hosted by Kym Doherty will be taking a ladies only tour to Barnbougle Dunes later in the year and I will be hosting a men's only trip also. Contact Kym 03 50246799 or Shane 0419208337if you are interested.
MILDURA PACING CUP GOLF DAY
Owners, trainer, drivers and trotting followers will congregate at Riverside Golf Club on Friday for the Annual Mildura Pacing Cup golf day. The event is an ambrose in 4's and provides an excellent opportunity to rub shoulders with the harness racing's golfing enthusiasts and relax before Saturday night's big meeting. Registration at Riverside Golf Club at 8-30am for a 9am start. Cost is @30 per player which includes a competitor gift pack, 18 holes, BBQ lunch and great trophies. Entries from singles ,two's or teams of four must be forwarded to Shane Doherty by Thursday on 0419208337 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This week in the Sunraysia Golf Tours - Round of the Week there were plenty of good rounds to choose from with lots of six better than handicap scores that didn't get a look in. Those who bettered their handicaps by seven shots included Merbein's Terry Fitzpatrick, Mildura's "Barney" Hubble, Coomealla's Ross Huxtable and Riverside's Graham Sievewright. Riverside's Gavin Highdale with 64 nett in Saturday's Monthly Medal takes out the prize of four laminated placemats featuring Sunraysia's great golf courses. Gavin must call into Sunraysia Golf Range at 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with your golfing information, results, stories or opinion on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
good golfing to all.

6/4/11

McPHEE WINS RIVERSIDE OPEN
Red Cliffs golf clubs greatest ever golfer Justin McPhee won the 2011 Riverside Open on Sunday. On Saturday McPhee and Cameron Stewart both returned two under par 70?s to lead Greg Rhodes by two and Tim Walker by four. On Sunday they all turned up to do battle together with McPhee and Stewart both determined to win in the first place but also to try and beat Greg Rhodes head to Head. Rhodes has an amazing record in the Riverside Open and won their Summer Open in January. Stewart was second to Rhodes at Coomealla two weeks ago and has struggled to overcome the great man in many previous encounters. McPhee has really come of age in the last two years, granted he has been a top golfer for over a decade but on Sunday he really stamped his papers. Make no mistake, both players would have been expecting Rhodes to cut loose and go well under par. This didn?t happen and McPhee fired a 73 to Stewart?s 74 and Rhodes 73. Tim Walker put himself in with a chance for the second time this year and won a minor battle on Sunday shooting an even par 72 to beat the other three on the day. This was a small victory but in the overall scheme of things to come it was a significant turning point in his career as it proved he can match and beat these blokes head to head. The next step is to do it two days in a row. Tim Peterson was welcomed back in local golf after taking twelve months off to play football with Nangiloc in the Millewa last year. Peterson is a very gifted golfer and opened his 2011 account with a workman like 78-74 to come in fifth. Ashley Whitehouse was unable to play due to work commitments but will be really fired up for the next two Opens at his home club Mildura.
2011 SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS TRI-STATE MASTERS
Entries have been coming in from all over Australia for the 2011 19th Annual Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters. This year we have had a terrific follow on from 2010 from Traralgon members with a strong contingent coming from the other end of the State. Entries have also been received from New Zealand, Queensland, Western Australia, New South Wales Hunter Valley and Tasmania. As usual the local entries will probably come in at the end of the month. Again this year all local golf club members who enter by April 30 will receive as a bonus a 12 month membership to the Sunraysia Golf Range valued at $99 which entitles golfers to hire buckets of golf balls at half price plus several other offers associated with the membership. The event is a stableford with seven (7) categories in each gender, including Scratch champion, over 50 scratch champion, A, B and C grades, Veteran (over 55) and Super Veteran (over 65)with the last five sections all stableford. A four person aggregate stableford teams event also provides a lot of fun for the respective ?teams?.
The entry fee of $195 includes a Competitor gift pack, an opening Cocktail Party at the Coomealla Club, three rounds at Red Cliffs, Riverside and Coomealla and a Presentation Dinner at the Coomealla Club. Entries are available at the Sunraysia Golf Range or phone 50 246799 for more details.
US MASTERS
The US Masters hits off on Friday morning promising to be even bigger than ever before. Phil Mickelson is defending champion and comes into the tournament in top form after winning in Houston on Sunday. Mickelson has won three Masters titles and needs one more to equal his greatest rival Tiger Woods who has won four. Mickelson?s win in Texas has taken him to one spot above Woods in the world rankings for the first time. For several years Mickelson was number two to Woods but couldn?t quite overtake him, until Sunday. Many players in the past have frozen when it came down to the last nine at Augusta including Greg Norman who could have won at least three Masters titles. Mickelson though, loves the Masters like no other tournament, just as Nicklaus, Palmer and Player and so many other champions before him. Come Sunday and he is either in the lead or near it he seems to find another gear. This year we have six Aussies trying to do what no other Australian has done before. Aaron Baddeley is our most in form player and on the surface appears to be our best chance, simply because he is our best putter. Other Aussies include Allenby, Appleby, Ogilvy, Scott and Jason Day.
TASMANIA GOLF TOUR
The 19th hole comes to you from Tasmania as Kym and I are hosting 17th golf tour and third to Tassie. The tour began at Mowbray golf club where Ricky Ponting?s dad plays every week and where Ricky has shot a 66 in competition. Mowbray is a lovely course, which I prefer over the three Launceston courses. Next stop was at Ulverstone which is a gem of a golf course and well worth a visit. From there we popped down to Strahan and did short boat voyage to Sarah?s Island and found out a little bit about the first convicts that were sent to Australia from England. After a heritage train trip we went straight down the middle of Tassie to Hobart stopping in at the Casquade Brewery for a visit and a wee tasting. Royal Hobart provided a lush green course to test our skills before we rested on Saturday and attended the Salamanca Market, which the ladies particularly enjoyed. Sunday was a great day, catarman cruise around Port Arthur followed by a tour of the famous settlement. Port Arthur?s nine hole picture perfect Tasman golf course proved a perfect setting for a three person three club ambrose. This was followed by an excellent repast and warm hospitality from the Tasman folk who have welcomed us back after previous visits in 1995 and 2003. On Monday we ventured to the Tasmania golf club where Red Cliffs ?Chopper Chase? excelled with 38 points which included three ?wipe-outs?. Today we are staying and playing at Australia?s number one public access course Barnbougle Dunes and tomorrow we will play its sister course Lost Farm which has only been open six months. On Friday we return home with some great memories of the Apple Isle.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS ? ROUND OF THE WEEK
There were some great scores last week which necessitated a countback ? of sorts with a three way tie for the Sunraysia Golf tours ? Round of the week. At Mildura Golf Club Resort Rodney Raeck equalled former champion Darren Foreman with 68 netts. At Coomealla the top scores came thick and fast including John Keogh?s 70 off the stick for a nett 65. Coomealla Memorial Club president Marge Sprague had 44 points equalling Kerrie Stewart and Andrew Leske. After following Andrew each week over the last few years and seeing some of the places he has been on the Coomealla golf course, he really must win this week?s prize of four laminated placemats of Sunraysia?s golf courses, which must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with your golf stories, information or opinion on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

30/3/11

RIVERSIDE OPEN
The 2011 Riverside Open will hit off this Saturday with lots of questions regarding the state of Sunraysia golf likely to be answered. Can anyone beat Greg Rhodes? Will Ashley Whitehouse produce the form that has seen him rated as the district number two golfer for the last twenty years? Will Tim Walker or Ryan Laird step up to the plate on the big stage after several years honing their skills for several years? Can Chris Thomas match it with the big boys on his home course? Riverside has been Rhodes happiest hunting ground over the last thirty years and his recent form in the Coomealla Open suggests no change on that front. Riverside presents lots of different challenges than most of our other local courses. The big hitters lose a little bit of their advantage as the course weaves around the river gums in dog legs and abrupt directional changes. Rhodes has always been able to think his way around a golf course better than anyone else, locally. He has an ability to choose the right shot, then be able to execute. Most players can do one or the other but only occasionally both at once. Riverside has had many ups and downs over the last fifty or so years, but recent times has seen the club overcome all sorts of adversity. Currently their green keeper Brendan Marr has been frustrated with the opposite problems to what he faced when he first took on the job. Too much water, who would ever have thought after the last ten years. Only very recently the condition of the golf course was being rated as ?best ever?. There is no doubt that if the rain stays away, that best ever tag will be touted once again.
SUNRAYSIA DISTRICT GOLF ASSOCIATION 2011 PENNANT
The first round of the SDGA pennant season is not due for another two months and some quick thinking needs to happen between now and then if division one pennant is to continue as the districts number one inter club competition. At present only Coomealla, Mildura and to a lesser extent, Broken Hill, look to be able to field competitive teams. Red Cliffs have indicated that with the probable retirement of club champion and district Country Week captain Justin McPhee that they will be unable to field a div one team. Riverside have not indicated their intentions yet but unless they are to produce some good players out of a hat, then they will struggle to match the top two. This is of course, if, Tim Walker and Tyler Verbeek go to Mildura or Coomealla. The one suggestion that I have heard that makes sense is that a junior elite team is included in division one pennant. This team would include Walker, Laird and Verbeek and the next group of up and coming juniors including Dom Vartulli, Shay Toma, Tom Holmes and several others.. Yes, they wouldn't be strong at four and five, but, neither would any of the other teams. Robinvale, Merbein and Wentworth refuse to submit div one teams on the basis of not enough top players, so the junior alternative could be the saviour of the top division. How about it SDGA?
LARS HOLDEN - FROM NZ TO MILDURA TO VIETNAM
Lars Holden is a name that many local people know. Lars won the 1993 Sunraysia Matchplay Championship at Mildura and the Coomealla club championship, then went on to become a professional after doing his time at Medway Golf Club under John Dickson. Lars came back to Mildura for 12 months several years ago to take over the club professional position at Coomealla Golf Club. From Mildura he went to Indonesia to work as a teaching professional. During this time he received an approach from a golf club in Vietnam, which he accepted and eventually took over the CEO position. Since then he married a local Hanoi girl and has two little girls aged 6 and 2. Lars is now the Titleist/Cobra/Puma agent for Vietnam and after taking on the agency 12 months ago he reports that business is booming. Lars has two brothers, Troy who lives in Mildura and Zarn who lives in Melbourne and we are all looking forward to catching up with him when he comes to Mildura for Christmas with his family.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK.The Sunraysia Golf Tours Round of the Week was a cut and dried affair this week. At Red Cliffs Dave Abbott had a day out with 44 points to come in second behind Rita Chase who had 45. It was Coomealla where the scores were off the planet with Dave Woolcock shooting 43 points and left handed David Guild racking up 48 points. Dave has been knocking on the door for some time now and obviously the golf gods decided to let him in. Dave wins a set of Sunraysia golf clubs laminated placemats, which must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.Contact me with your golfing stories, information or opinion on golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au Good golfing to all.

23/3/11

COOMEALLA'S GREG RHODES WINS AGAIN
Greg Rhodes won the Coomealla Open on Sunday with rounds of 69-71. Four under par would have won any local open golf tournament in Sunraysia in the last fifty two years. The 52 year old just keeps on doing it year after year. The two questions that always come up regarding Rhodes at this time of year are - will anyone beat him in an Open tournament this year and can he win all eight Opens in the one year? The latter is probably the only record he hasn't achieved in his stellar career. On Saturday he went around Coomealla in 69 to be a two shot leader over Adelaide driving range proprietor Damien Hosking who was at Coomealla on a golfing holiday with a few mates. The 42 year old hadn't held a handicap for ten years but at he urgings of his mates joined Coomealla and was allotted a six handicap, which he thought was four less than he should have got. A superb 71 on Saturday saw his handicap reduced to +1 for Sunday, alas though, he couldn't reproduce Saturday's form and returned an 80 playing in the seeded group. Cameron Stewart was equal second with 73-71 with Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker who was the junior champion on 72-72. On Sunday's form he will go close to winning an Open this year. Ashley Whitehouse blew his chances with a 76 on Saturday but improved with a 72 on Sunday. The other standout performance was from veteran hard nut Peter Keher who shot 78-75 to win the A grade handicap, senior (over 55) scratch and handicap championship.
Ryan Laird blew his tournament out the window with a 78 on Saturday but returned par on Sunday. It had been a big few weeks for the talented youngster as he had won the Mildura Junior Open the weekend before with 72-72, then played the first 36 holes of the Australian Amateur at Victoria and Woodlands Golf Clubs during the week where he shot 83-83. In the ladies event Anne Bowen was a surprise winner with 82-85. The next 36 hole Open tournament will be at Riverside on April 2-3 where Greg Rhodes has won more Opens than at any other local golf course.
COOMEALLA OPEN TOP 10
1. Greg Rhodes 140 2. Cameron Stewart, Tim Walker 144 4. Ash Whitehouse 148 5. Mark Hahn 149 6. Ryan Laird 150 7. Damien Hosking 151 8. Andrew Stewart 152 9. Justin McPhee, Peter Keher 153
COOMEALLA OPEN TOP 10 HANDICAP
1. Peter Keher (A) 137 2. Michael Billucaglia (C) 138 3. Derek Greenfield (A) 139 4. D Hosking (A) 139 5. Nick Cavallo (C) Alan Jenkinson (C) Gary Izaccs (B) Andrew Hill (A) M Hahn (A) Craig Hollingsworth (C) 142
KARRIE WEBB GOES BACK TO BACK
Australia's leading lady of golf Karrie Webb won for the second time in two weeks on the tough US LPGA circuit in the LPGA Founders Tournament on Sunday. Webb shot 71-67-66 to finish 12 under par and win by one stroke from Paula Creamer. This event was a first on the LPGA Tour and was held to recognise the 13 "original founders" of the LPGA Tour. The top 10 finishers donated their prize money to their chosen charities which totalled $500,000 with a further $500,000 going to LPGA-USGA Girls Golf program. Webb donated her $200,000 prize money to the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation (ex-Superman). Webb first met Reeve in 1999 and together they formed a partnership to raise awareness on spinal cord research. This is particularly important to Karrie as her long time teacher and mentor Kelvin Haller who lives in Queensland is a quadriplegic who was restricted to a wheel chair after an accident 18 years ago. The previous week Webb won the rich HSBC Champions tournament in Singapore when she came from being three shots behind with nine holes to go. This victory was her 37th on the LPGA Tour and her 51st world wide. Is she Australia's best ever golfer?
ROLEX WORLD TOP 10
1. Y Tseng TPE 2. Jiyai Shin KOR 3. C Kerr USA 4. N C Choi KOR 5. S Pettersen NOR 6. A Miyazato JPN 7. I K Kim KOR 8. Karrie Webb AUS 9. P Creamer USA 10 I Park KOR
ARNOLD PALMER INVITATIONAL
Tiger Woods will tee it up in this weeks Arnold Palmer Invitational at Palmers own course Bay Hill in Florida. Woods will be hoping for his seventh win in this tournament to try and get his mojo back after a lean period since 2008. Apart from Rod Pampling who won in 2006, Australians have never been a factor in this tournament but I have a feeling that this could be Robert Allenby's week. Phil Mickelson will be gearing up in his preparation for a strong defence of his 2010 Masters title on April 7-10 and Hunter Mahan looks a strong chance, as does Dustin Johnson. Last week rookie Gary Woodland won his first US Tour event in the Transitions Championship from another rookie in Webb Simpson.
JACQUELIN WINS IN SICILY
France's Raphael Jacquelin won the inaugural Sicilian Open on Monday after a weather delay on Sunday. Jacquelin weather a strong assault from runner up England's Anthony Wall to hold on and win by one stroke.This week the European Tour moves to Spain and the home region of Miquel Angel Jimenez who is the tournament host. Jimenez comes from the Andalucia region which is not far from the Costa del Sol where Jimenez played most of his early golf. The 47 year old is one of Europe's most popular players and was a member of the European Ryder Cup team that defeated the USA in Wales last September. Alvaro Quiros is the current Spanish Open champion and is the favourite for this weeks tournament.
WORLD TOP 10
1. M Kaymer GER 2. L Westwood 3. Luke Donald ENG 4. M McDowell IRE 5. T Woods USA 6. P Mickelson USA 7. P Casey ENG 8. R McIlroy IRE 9. M Kuchar USA 10. P Stricker USA
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - HOUSE OF GOLF
The Sunraysia Golf Range/House of Golf Club is conducting it's annual members night tonight from 6pm - 8pm. Membership to this club is free and anyone is welcome to join in the fun.Tonight the 2011 Footy Tipping competition will be launched with free, entry to all club members who will tip off for $3,000 worth of prizes including weekly prizes and the top three at the end of the year. The House of Golf social golf club has gone from strength to strength since its inception last year with beginners through to scratch markers as members. Call in tonight and find out more at the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave.
SCOTLAND/IRELAND GOLF TOUR
Sunraysia Golf Tours will be taking our second golf tour to Scotland and Ireland from September 9-25. This is sure to be a wonderful golfing holiday with some of the worlds most renowned golf courses on the itinerary. Courses to be played include Gleneagles and the two courses at Troon in Scotland. In Ireland we will begin at Templepatrick then, Old Head, Druids Glen, Lahinch and Mt Juliet. A day at St Andrews will be be something special as will our banquet at Bunratty Castle. Other attractions include day trips to Edinburgh and Dublin where we will do city sights tours and a host of other inclusions that are sure to be memorable. Cost of the all inclusive tour is $7,495 per person twin share or $6,595 for non golfing partners. We only have six seats left so give us a call if you are interested on 03 50247699. You don't have to be a good golfer but you must be prepared to have a great time because always remember that "memories live longer than dreams".
SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This is the 10th year of the 19th hole and we are awarding some great prizes each week for the Sunraysia Golf Tours - Round of the week. The prizes will vary depending on local companies who would like to sponsor local golf and get some exposure and awareness in this section at the same time.
This week we had a plethora of great scores beginning with Bluey Martin who won the Mildura Masters event with 43 points last Thursday. This was matched by Steven Fumberger also at Mildura, Steve Turlan at Riverside and Damien Hosking at Coomealla on Saturday. Terry Lavery had 44 points at Riverside on Sunday which equalled Fred Stevens at Merbein but couldn't compare with Peter Emmett's 46 points at Riverside. The standout round of the week though, came from Bryn Shaw at Wentworth who had an 86 net 60 at Wentworth on Saturday. Bryn wins a set of laminated placemats featuring the golf courses of Sunraysia from Sunraysia Golf Tours and must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range by this Friday.
Contact me with any golf information, stories or opinions on email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

16/3/11

LAIRD WINS MILDURA JUNIOR OPEN
Ryan Laird played some of his best ever tournament golf to easily win the 2011 Mildura Junior Open on Sunday. Parring the course two days in a row signals that this could be the year when Ryan steps up to the plate in Sunraysia golf. Runner up was Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker who was expecting to do much better than 73-75. Domenic Vartuli was the second best performer of the weekend shooting 73-76 in his best open performance so far. The field of 41 was a little bit disappointing but with so many of the districts top juniors still involved in cricket finals a team sport must come first. Coomealla will host the next major junior competition early next month.
COOMEALLA OPEN KICKS OFF THE SUNRAYSIA SEASON
The 2011 Coomealla Open kicks off the Sunraysia District Golf Association's Open season Saturday. Low scores are expected with the course playing shorter than usual. Offsetting that shortness is the lack off roll and secondary cut next to the fairway which makes hitting the fairways crucial to low scoring. Greg Rhodes is always the favourite in any scratch event at Coomealla but he hasn't been in top form lately, going out form +2 to +1. Rhodes will meet formidable opposition frm Cameron Stewart Justin McPhee and Ashley Whitehouse. Top juniors including Ryan Laird and Tim Walker will also be thereabouts. 2010 Sunraysia district champion and Coomealla 2009 club champion Jake laubsch who now lives in Adelaide is also returning this weekend to try and win his first local club open. Laubsch seems to have struggled in South Australia but a return to Coomealla where he has played so well in the past should give him confidence.
TRANSITIONS CHAMPIONSHIP
last week Nick Whatney came home first in the Cadillac championship at Doral. I hope you had a few sheckels on him at long odds, as was suggested in this column last week. This week at Tampa Bay 9 Aussies will tee it up with Geoff Ogilvy or Jason Day our best chances. My pick is Padraig Harrington who has been knocking on the door lately and is overdue for a win. Jim Furyk is the best of the rest and might be in the last group with Harrington come Sunday.
WOOD COULD IN SICILY
Englishman Chris Wood has been knocking on the door for several years on the European Tour and appeals as a good bet in the inaugural Sicilian Open. Wood makes a lot of birdies but offsets that with lots of bogeys, here's hoping he gets it right this week. An old favourite might just return to form in the shape of Mr Grumpy Colin Montgomerie, I know he always looks like he has just lost a pound and found a penny but I really enjoy watching him play.
JACK NICKLAUS - 1986 US MASTERS CHAMPION
Book of the week is One For The Ages by Tom Clavin who gives a stirring account of the most memorable victory of golf's greatest ever champion - Jack Nicklaus. Nicklaus won the Masters at age 46 when everyone had totally written him off as a possible chance in a major. This was another major that Greg Norman finished second in but apart from the Aussies back home, nobody cared about who had come second. The Golden Bear had done it again.

9/3/11

MAN IN UNIFORM WINS COOMEALLA SHOOTOUT
Mildura policeman Mark McDonald won the fifth annual Coomealla Stableford Shootout on Sunday. In perfect conditions some of the golf shots on display were less than perfect but it was once again a terrific event. Six handicapper McDonald had his fair share of good fortune throughout the seven hour contest but was good enough to produce the right shots at the right time. The rules of the game sees a putt off at the conclusion of each hole if there are more than one player tied with the worst stableford score on that hole. The captain determines where they will putt from, then the furtherest from the hole after they putt, drops out. Some bizarre things tend to happen in these shootouts, but not surprisingly when you have 19 balls going in different directions, a wrong ball can be struck. Unfortuneately this happened on the second hole and have a guess who was the culprit? Next year I will use an iridescent pink marking pen! Dave Gardiner played like a German band around the front nine turning only one over par. In this game though, if you drop your guard just once it can be fatal. Such was the case on the 11th when he made double bogey and he was out. Graham Burrows was the the big surprise packet of the day. Playing off 18 he was quoted in "interstate markets" at 100-1 but played impecably until the 16th when he was knocked out of the competition after a three man putt off, in which he came third. Rumour has it that the "interstate" bookmaker was getting quite nervous by the 14th hole as he never thought Mr Burrows would last that long! The last two players on the par three 18th were two Carlton supporters who agreed on the tee to split the $622 club voucher but played out the hole for appearances anyway. Inaugural winner Steve Spooner played his worst hole for the day handing the title to McDonald who joins Spooner 2007 Shane Doherty 2008, and Peter Dooley 2009-10 as shootout winners. I can't wait till next year when the said "bookie" won't defintely won't be including anyone in the field at 100-1!
MILDURA JUNIOR OPEN
This weekend all eyes will turn to Mildura Golf Club for their Junior Open. A strong field of visiting juniors will contest the event with Sunraysia's best chances being Tim Walker, Ryan Laird and Tyler Verbeek. The Mildura course is in superb nick so scoring should be top class.
WHO WILL TAME THE BLUE MONSTER?
Ben Hogan is attributed as the man who initially nicknamed the Doral TPC golf course "the blue monster". Hogan tamed it in his day but had enormous respect for the layout which is a fantastic test of golfing skill. This Cadillac Doral Open has been won six times by Tiger Woods who is drawn with his great adversary Phil Mickelson and Ireland's Graeme McDowell. Woods is still undergoing swing changes but the good ol folk from the US of A keep pumping him up as the favourite in every tournament he tees it up in. The worlds best will assemble in Florida on Thursday for this event and the top dozen or so players in the world rankings have been drawn together in order. As such Germany's Martin Kaymer and Englishmen Lee Westwood and Luke Donald will step it out together. The other interesting group will be Ireland's Rory McIlroy, Paul Casey and Steve Stricker. There are six Aussies teeing it up including Peter Senior from the Champions (over 50) Tour and Marcus Fraser who usually plays the European Tour. I like either Nick Watney or Paul Casey this week but with so many good chances it is a bit of a raffle.
TOSHIBA CLASSIC
The Champions Tour moves to Newport Beach California this week where fabulous Freddy won last year. Fred Couples is just about America's favourite golfer with his laconic nature but he sure can hit a golf ball and still gets it out there with the best of them on the "flat belly" Tour, as Lee Trevino once called it. Actually, Lee Trevino is playing in this tournament, which is a rarity for him these days. What a character he is, without doubt one of the all time greats. Australia's Graham Marsh is also making an infrequent appearance this week but it is hard to see him finishing high on the leaders board. Tom Lehman will carry my hard earned in the Toshiba. There is no tournament this week in the Nationwide Tour, the next tournament will be the Peurto Rico Open in a fortnight at the Trump International golf club in Rio Grande. So far this year Matt Goggin is number two and his mate Alistair Presnell is number five on the Nationwide money list.
TITANIC THOMPSON
I have just finished ready a new book about the True Story of Titanic Thompson. I had read tit bits about Titanic Thompson's exploits in a number of golf books in life stories about golfers such as Walter Hagen, Bobby Jones, Ben Hogan and Byron Nelson. Titanic Thompson was a notorius con man in he 20's through to the 50's. His "con's" included cards, dominoes and basically any game you could think of but it was his golfing stories that attracted my attention. Titanic was a scratch marker left hander but was nearly as good right handed. He would drive all over America seeking out his prey at the rich country clubs. Usually he would have an accomplice, mostly of which would be tournament players of the calibre and including the great Ben Hogan. He would seek out the richest members of the clubs and play them right handed for incredible sums of money. A 10,000 wager was not an uncommon starting point. Titanic would always win by one stroke and then say to his opponent " I recken you're such a bad golfer I could even beat you left handed". Another match would be set, either the same day or next. Naurally Titanic would win by one stroke again and then say something like " I reckon even my caddy could beat you". Up steps Ben Hogan who was unknown at this time or Ky Lafoon or Lee Elder and shoot the lights out. They would then move on to the next town to find more "suckers". Thompson never turned professional because the leading money winner on the tour was pocketing $6,000 to $7,000 a year at that time which Thompson made on one hole most times he played. During his story he either conned or teamed up with Al Capone, Harry Houdini, Minnestota Fats, Damon Runyon and of course Ben Hogan. It really is a fascinating read.

2/3/11

COOMEALLA STABLEFORD SHOOTOUT THIS SUNDAYCoomealla Golf Club will conduct its 5th annual Stableford Shootout on Sunday. The ladies will only be playing 9 holes with Tracey Hywood hitting her straps just at the right time after 44 points today at Coomealla. In the mens marathon event Steve Spooner has come back from a form wilderness to be one of the favourites. Others who should make it through for the majority of the eight hour shootout include Ron Hunt, Ross Robertson and David Gardiner. The concept is that 19 players hit off at 8am with one player dropping out on each hole. The first three holes usually take up to 90 minutes so concentration is an absolute must.
CAMERON STEWART FIRES 68 AT COOMEALLA
Cameron Stewart looks set for a bir year after shooting a 68 at Coomealla on Saturday. The score lowered his handicap to scratch which is a great achievement for any golfer. Cameron is yet to win a club championship but here's hoping 2011 will be his year following on from brother Andrews win in the Mildura championship last year.
KARRIE WEBB CONFIRMS "LEGEND STATUS"
There has long been an argument about who is Australia's greatest ever golfer. Some suggest Peter Thomson with his five British Open wins hands down. Others and perhaps the majority of people believe that Greg Norman is our best ever. The other nomination has been Karrie Webb who won again in Singapore on Sunday in the HSBS Champions tournament. Karrie played beatifully, particularly on the weekend when she came from behind. Karrie has not be as dominant in recent years but if she continues with last weeks form, then a return to the number one in the world for the ladies is certainly not beyond her.
DONALD BREAKS HIS DUCK
The Accenture World Matchplay Championship was fantastic again this year. Luke Donadl won with precision iron play and laser like putting. Condition were as cold as a mother in law's kiss with snow and hail falling before and during the tournament. Donald is not your outlandish over the top golf professional, like some of his compatriots tend to be. You could say he lets his clubs do the talking. It was somewhat of a surprise when Colin Montgomerie left him out of Europes Ryder Cup team last year but Sundays win more than makes up for that. Martin Kaymer was runner up and is fast becoming the second best German golf er ever behind Bernhardt Langer. Kaymer is quiet but effictive and has now risen to be the world number one. There were some outstanding performances in this event but the one that stood out was Migel Angel Jimenez. At 47 the Spainard played blokes half his age and really more than held his own, most entertaing to watch. Our guys couldn't cut the mustard this year, with the exception of Jason Day who really looks to be blossoming into a top 10 player. It was only three years ago that I did a story on him attaining a +5 handicap in his mid teens.
GOGGIN WINS IN PANAMA ON THE NATIONWIDE TOUR
Matthew goggin had a somewhat fall from grace, golfing wise, on the US PGA Tour last year. Last Thursday he teed it up in the "2's" which is the United States secondary tour known as the Nationwide Tour. This is a long way from playing in the last group in the British Open three years ago with Tom Watson. Goggin could quite easily have won that tournament and his life would have been much different. Anyway, back to the weekend and Goggin began the last round two shots behind his Australian mate Alistair Presnell in the Panama Claro Championship. A quick 68 was enough to clinch the title with Presnell who has earlier rcorded 65-64 the previous two days limping in with a 73. Fifteen Aussies teed it up in Panama including Peter Lonard and Adam Bland.
APPLEBY RETURNS TO THE HONA CLASSIC
Stuart Appleby will play the first two rounds of the Honda Classic in Palm Beach Florida with his good friend Adam Scott. The Honda Classic was Appleby's first ever win on the US PGA Tour so he should be ready to perform well. Eight other Aussies will join Appleby and Scott so hopefully one will hoist the trophy on Sunday. Interesting to read that Aaron Baddeley's Aussie coach had $1000 each way on Baddeley at 100-1 when he won a fortnight ago. Nice little collect. Apparently Steven Bann had a few sheckels on as well.

25/2/11

OGILVY AIMS AT THIRD MATCHPLAY TITLE
Geoff Ogilvy will have to overcome long hitting left hander Bubba Watson if he is to make the quarter finals of the 2011 Accenture World Matchplay. Ogilvy seems to love the greens at Dove Mountain as he makes 20 footers look easy. Jason Day was just brilliant in his second round match but he will have to keep that form going if he is to get past another long hitter in JB Holmes. Holmes ha averaged over 370 yards (340 metres) off the tee in the first two rounds with his best drive measured at 400 yards (360metres). Seventeen year old Italian Matteo Manasserto looks at home amongst the men and his next match against Luke Donald should be a beauty. Nick Watney is the real sleeper this year, he could go all the way to the final as he should beat Ryan Moore in his next match. Another good contest will be between Hunter Mahan and world number two Martin Kaymer who recently received a pep talk from his German compatriot Bernhardt Langer. Langer was the first official world number one when the rankings first began in 1986.
KARRIE READY TO POUNCE
The HSBC Women's Champions tournament in Singapore has attracted all the big names in ladies golf. Chie Arimura is one shot cleat at -4 after the first round but world number one Yani Tseng who has won her three tournaments is only two shots behind. Karrie Webb is also well placed at -2 with Lindsey Wright even par and Katherine Hull 2 over. Defending champion Ai Miyazato is 2 0ver and two behind her younger sister Mika.
MARK HENSBY LEADS IN MEXICO
Mark Hensby is co leader of the Mayakoba Classic in Mexico on the US PGA Tour. Hensby has won the tour before but this would be a great boost to his ranking if he could get up on Sunday. Cameron Percy at -3 is only two shots of the pace and has found form just at the right time. Other Australians in with a chance are Jarrod Lyle at -2 and Rod Pampling at -1.

23/2/11

SUNRAYSIA'S BIG WET
Sunraysia's golf courses are starting to dry out after the torrential downpours over the last few months. Mildura golf club has probably recovered the quickest but the biggest problem for the courses has been the humidity. The dry heat that we have become so used to year after year has been replaced by the Queensland like humidity. This has created problems for our greenkeepers as fungus and other diseases have appeared on some greens. Fortunately the technology available theses days gives the greenkeepers a better chance of keeping on top of the problem. Fingers crossed though, that we don't get any more rain any time soon, not only for the golf courses but even more importantly for the grape harvests which will defintely be later this year.
TRI-STATE MASTERS
Entries have been coming in from all around Australia for the 19th annual Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters. Almost everyone that we have spoken to are more than delighted that they won't have to journey over to South Australia this year. Both Red Cliffs and Riverside golf clubs are eagerly looking forward to being involved in the tournament this year. Everyone on our data base should have their entries by now, so it's all systems go.
BADDELEY WINS BACK THE TRUST
Aaron Baddeley won the Northern Trust Open at Riviera golf club in Los Angeles on Sunday after going head to head with American crwd favourite Fred Couples. Baddeley has has an ordinary couple of years in the US but seems to have turned everything around by going back to a trusted coach and friend in Dale Lynch. Baddeley started working with Lynch as a 13 year old and won two Australian Opens by the time he turned 21. Lynch was with him all the way. For seven years in the States he went back and forth with other US coaches until tewo years ago when he made the decision to go back to Lynch. At that level of golf it is important that you can hit all types of shots, fades, draws, high and low shots, and have the confidence to be able to go for it. It will be interesting to see how he goes for the rest of the year because one of his main focuses is to win a spot in the International Presidents Cup tea. Greg Norman seems keen for him to be on the team which will play the United States at Royal Melbourne but he needs to keeps winning or at least finishing high. Eight out of 14 Aussies made the cut at Riviera with Robert Allenby and Stuart Appleby finishing up the leaderboard.
LARS HOLDEN - FROM NZ TO MILDURA TO VIETNAM
Lars Holden is a name that many local people know. Lars won the 1993 Sunraysia Matchplay Championship at Mildura then went on to become a professional after doing his time at Medway Golf Club under John Dickson. Lars came back to Mildura for 12 months to take over the club professional at Coomealla Golf Club. From Mildura he went to Indonesia to work as a teaching professional. During this time he received an approach from a golf club in Vietnam which he accepted. Since then he married a local Hanoi girl and has two little girls aged 6 and 2. Lars is now the Titleist/Cobra/Puma agent for Vietnam and after taking on the agency 12 months ago he reports that business is booming. Lars has two brothers, Troy who lives in Mildura and Zarn who lives in Melbourne and we are all looking forward to catching up with him when he comes to Mildura for Christmas with his family.
ACCENTURE WORLD MATCHPLAY
The Accenture World Matchplay Championship is being played this week at Dove Mountain in the US. This place is surrounded by thistles, thorns, rocks and rattlesnakes. The countryside reminds me of when we used to watch Toombstone Territory on the TV in the 60's. Geoff Ogilvy is our best chance but the Europeans might be the big winners. Last year two pommies fought it out for the title with Ian Poulter knovking off Paul Casey. I like Rory McIlroy or Martin Kaymer but naturally Ogilvy is the one we want to win, it would be his third win in this event.

16/2/11

SUNRAYSIA GOLFERS LEARN TO PLAY WET WEATHER GOLF
One of the disadvantages our Country Week players face every year is when it rains in Melbourne during Country Week. Most other regions accept it as just another day at the golf course. Most of our players pull out of golf that day if they wake up in Mildura and it is raining. Well, after the last three months a lot of our local golfers have learnt to play wet weather golf or the alternative has been no golf at all. It really hasn't affected the scoring as much as one would have thought. Indeed, the golf courses have really responded beautifully to the extra "drink". February's Round of the Month so far would have to be Coomealla's Jacob Slimmon who cruised around Coomealla on the weekend in a slick 66. This young man can really play and tossed up about whether to enter the PGA qualifying school. Maybe with another 12 months of really good solid golf behind him, and a few titles, he might reconsider next year.
THE SANDS TORQUAY SENIORS CHAMPIONSHIP
On Monday John Keogh, Ross Bowen and I teed it up in the Sands Torquay Seniors Championship. This Stuart Appleby designed course is an absolute ripper. I loved it, as did the other boys and we really enjoyed the course and the tournament in general. Mind you, none of us greeted the judge on this occasion, but as they say, where there is life there is hope. Ross Percy won the event with 77-70 eclipsing his total of 79-71 last year. This followed on from winning the Tasmanian Seniors Championship at Mowbray Golf Club the week before. He won this State title after holing his second shot on the last hole to win by one shot. The Seniors tournaments are really good to play in and the list of events can be found on the Victorian Golf Association web site.
QUIROS KING IN DUBAI CLASSIC
Spain's Alvaro Quiros overcame all the big names to win the Omega Dubai Classic at the Emirates Golf Club. Ireland's Rory McIlroy led after 36 holes and looked to be doing it easy but he fell away in the last two rounds. Sergio Garcia popped up in the third round and everyone was saying "Ole" but he dropped off and then was drawn with his nemisis Tiger Woods in the last round. Not much chit chat in that group on Sunday. World number one and two Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer didn't really fire a shot, so it came down to the longest hitter on the European Tour Alvaro Quiros. This bloke is so long I'd rather wait. This week the tour moves to New Delhi where Aussie Andrew Dodt won his first tournament last year. In the Race to Dubai the top five players so far are : 1 Alvaro Quiros - SPAIN 2 Charl Schwartzel - RSA 3 Martin Kaymer - Germany 4 Thomas Bjorn - DENMARK 5 Paul Casey - England.
NORTHERN TRUST AT RIVIERA
This week the Northern Trust tournament will be conducted at Riviera Golf Club in San Francisco. I love this golf course where Ben Hogan really dominated in his era. Thankfully it will be back to golf this week as last week the Pebble Beach Pro-Am was very hard to watch unless you are American. I don't particularly enjoy the rubbish that overshadows the actual golf being played by the professionals. Anyway, this week at Riviera Bubba Watso and Dustin Johnson might put on a long driving clinic or maybe fabulous Phil might perform a few of party tricks with his wedges. I hope one of the 13 Aussies playing can salute the judge. A Marc Leihman or a Jarrod Lyle. The commentry by Nick Faldo is excellent and David Feherty is quite funny but the rest are left for dead by the European commentry team.

9/2/11

RAIN RAIN GO AWAY
Sunraysia had it's average twelve months rainfall in twenty four hours on Friday and Saturday. It is the second big downpour following the December storm. All local golf courses were closed on Saturday and Riverside and Red Cliffs are still closed and very wet. Short term it makes golf difficult for greenkeepers and golfers alike, long term it will do wonders for our golf courses. More rain is predicted for Friday and Saturday.
TRI-STATE MASTERS ENTRY FORMS
The Tri-State Masters entry forms can now be downloaded from the TOURNAMENTS section of the web site. We will be posting them to everyone on our data base next week. Entrants in the tournament this year have the choice of playing all five days from May 15-20 with the three competition days at Red Cliffs, Riverside and Coomealla golf clubs on the Monday, Wednesday and Friday. An optional 4BBB stableford is available on Tuesday May 17 and an Ambrose in 4's is also available on Thursday May 19 at Coomealla. In addition to the Cocktail Party on Sunday May 15 and the Presentation Dinner on Friday May 20 (both at the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club) optional evening social functions include : Wine Tasting and Dinner at Trentham Estate Winery on Monday May 16, Putting Championship at the Sunraysia Golf Range on Tuesday May 17, Golf Dinner after golf at Riverside Golf Club on Wednesday May 18, Dinner Dance on the PS Mundoo Paddleboat on Thursday May 19. Our accommodation sponsors this year are the Coomealla Resort Motel and Caravan Park, Mildura & Deakin Holiday Park, Quest Apartments and the Sunraysia Resort.
BIG TOURNAMENTS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE SEA
This week the Omega Dubai Derert Classic hits off at the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai. The world's top three ranked players will tee it up together on Thursday and Friday. Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer and Tiger Woods will all be striving to win the tournament and take the world number one ranking. Woods had a mortage on the number one spot for the last five years but not any more. Kaymer has never played with Woods, even though they are two and three in the world. It is sure to increase the interest in golf all over the world. In the US, the focus is usually on the Pebble Beach Pro Am where all the movie stars and business moguls team up with the worlds top golf professionals. Probably though, for the first time ever, this tournament is secondary to the Dubai Desert Classic. Mind you, the Yanks wouldn't see it that way! Dustin Johnson seems to be the King at Pebble Beach, he won it last year and led from go to almost whoa in the US Open there last year. Our Aussies haven't featured much at Pebble Beach or in Dubai in recent times. Maybe Ogilvy might start appearing on the top of the leader boards more often this year. Allenby has been really consistent over the last couple of seasons without winning.
WOMEN'S AUSTRALIAN OPEN
Really enjoyed the coverage of the ladies Aussie Open. There is such variety of different styles of golfers and nationalities amongst the top lady golfers these days. The Asian influence is much greater in ladies golf, they are terrific. Melissa Reid from England played really well and is one to watch this year. Our Katherine Hull seems to be right on the brink of breaking through in America. Karrie Webb still hits it great but her putter seems to have turned on her. If she turns that around she could be right up there again this year. We have four or five girls in America this year that should be contenders. Let's hope so.

2/2/11

TRI-STATE MASTERS MAGIC MOMENTS
The entry forms for the 2011 Sunraysia Golf Tours 19th Annual Tri-State Masters have just been finished and will be posted out on Tuesday next week. It is a hectic time for Kym and I but we look forward to it every year. With almost 1100 different people from over 200 clubs having played in the tournament since 1993 there are so many memories that we relive each year as we sit together putting the entry forms in envelopes. On Monday we received a call from Dennis and Beth Watson who live in Kurri Kurri in the Hunter Valley telling us that they will be coming back for the tournament this year. The Watsons have been on two golf tours with us to New Zealand (1998) and Scotland/Ireland (2000) as well as playing in 9 Tri-State Masters. We haven't seen them for a couple of years, so will it be great to catch up with them again in May and welcome them to the 10 year club. Our motto of "it's always nice to meet nice people and that memories live longer than dreams", might sound a bit corny, but year after year we share more and more examples of it proving that it is so true. We have been very lucky to have the support of so many people who have made the trek to Mildura. Our major sponsors including Trentham Estate Winery, the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club and Prime Television have enabled us to maintain the standard of the tournament even though our numbers have dropped in the last three years. Relatively new sponsors such as the House of Golf Sunraysia Golf Range and Burrows Showcase Jewellers have also been terrific with great trophies. Again this year all players in the Tri-State Masters will be made temporary members of the Sunraysia Golf Range which will allow them to practice at the range with half price range balls. This year we welcome Quest Apartments as our newest accommodation sponsor. Quest Apartments have only been in Mildura 10 months and are situated right in the middle of the town next to the Mildura Workingman's Club. Quest join the Coomealla Club motel and holiday park, Sunraysia Resort and the Mildura and Deakin Caravan Park as our preferred accommodation options. Our golf courses are looking fantastic, which is a bit different to how they look in most February's and we've got more rain coming in the next week. Usually our greenkeepers are pulling their hair out as they can't get enough water, but not this year.
JUNIORS UP AND ABOUT
I had the pleasure of playing with two of Sunraysia's brightest junior stars on Saturday at Coomealla. Tyler Verbeek is set for his best ever year in local golf. I can remember when he started off at Merbein when he was knee hight to a grasshopper and marvelled then at how keen he was to improve. At 16 he has reduced his handicap to two and scrath is not far off if he keeps working hard and improving. He has his sights on making golf a career and I'm betting that he will achieve it. Tom Holmes is only 15 and plays off 8. What a talent this kid is. Only problem is that he represents the district in both hockey and cricket and golf comes in third. I have no doubt that he would be in our top three juniors within six months if he committed to golf over hockey as he hits it great but just needs a bit more control with his short irons. I will be following his progress with interest throughout the year.
SCOTLAND/IRELAND GOLF TOUR
On Monday we released the completed itinerary for our second Scotland/Ireland golf tour in September. It has been received extremely well. The golf courses we will be playing are first class, Gleneagles and Troon in Scotland. Over to Ireland and we begin with Templepatrick which is a nice course to begin the Irish experience, then we move on to the famous links of Lahinch, Druids Glen, Old Head and Mount Juliet. We will visit my favourite golf course in the world Royal County Down and spend a few hours at the home of golf St Andrews. We have been planning this tour for 11 years since we last toured there in 2000.
WOMEN'S AUSTRALIAN OPEN
Commonwealth golf club will host the women's Australian Open tomorrow and most Aussies will be hoping for Karrie Webb or Katherine Hull to take home the title. It is very open this year with Jiyai Shin and Yani Tseng starting favourites. England's blond bombshell Melissa Reid will start favourite though, with most of the male patrons in the galleries. She has the looks of movie star and her golf is edging closer to a big win on the tour. Commonwealth is fairly tight and the big hitters will have to be careful. Other ladies to look out for are the bubbly Christina Kim and another English rose called Laura Davies who just keeps on keeping on.

26/1/11

RHODES WINS RIVERSIDE SUMMER OPEN
Greg Rhodes is the most prolific winner of open tournaments in Sunraysia and Riverside has been his happiest hunting ground. So it was again at the weekend when he won the 2011 Riverside Summer Open. It was no surprise that he won but a surprise to some that he played. For some reason Greg has been a notorious late entry in open tournaments in Sunraysia for twenty plus years. Naturally he is always accepted in any local tournament right up to the deathknock because every local club wants our best player in the field. On Saturday he had a ho hum day for him shooting a one under par 71. Surprise second on the leader board was Darren "Oscar" Mannix who plays off nine at Riverside and parred the course. Mannix played really well in the first three rounds of the club championship last year and is a player of the future. District number two Ashley Whitehouse was below his best and came in with a 73. Up and coming junior Dom Vartulli was next on 74. On Sunday Mannix was as nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs as he was seeded into the leading group. A three over par 39 was followed by an even par 36 which was a great effort for the districts most notable "rookie". Whitehouse wasn't able to match Rhodes and had a 73 to be runner up. Rhodes was at his dominant best shooting a three under 69. The most impressive part of his game was his putting where he hardly missed a putt inside ten feet. Putting is the part of Greg's game that quite often lets him down. Mind you, playing off +2 means that he can putt but it isn't normally up to the standard of the other departments in his game. All players were most appreciative of the condition of the golf course and the organisation of the club after having to postpone the tournament from the weekend before. From all reports it appears that several other clubs are planning Summer Opens next summer.
WENTWORTH ON A SHAW THING
The name Shaw has been constantly coming up in the trophy winners circle at Wentworth golf club over the last couple of months. Bryn and Aaron Shaw have been dominating club competitions with stableford scores in the high 40's not uncommon. Both men only started playing competition last year but they have worked really hard on their golf with practise at the Sunraysia Driving Range every week. Bryn is particularly dedicated and I wouldn't be surprise to see him contend on a regular basis at some of the open tournaments this year, firstly in C grade then most definitely in B grade.
TIGER HITS OFF THIS WEEK
Tiger Woods returns to the PGA Tour this week in California playing with Rocco Mediate and Anthony Kim. Torrey Pines is one of his favourite golf courses and was where he last won the US Open in a playoff with Mediate. Funny how he comes to be drawn with Rocco when it is supposed to be a random draw out of a computer. But who worries about that? It is just the way the Yanks like to stageshow their tournaments. Don't worry it happens on all of the tours, even in Australia in the meagre few significant tournaments we conduct. Dustin Johnson is drawn with Justin Rose and Phil Mickelson which will be the main group. I just feel this year is going to be one of Tiger's very best. Sure, he blotted his copybook off the golf course but if he plays anywhere near his best, he wins, simple as that. It is sure going to be compelling viewing!

19/1/11

RIVERSIDE SUMMER OPEN THIS WEEKEND
Riverside Golf Club will conduct their third annual Summer Open tournament this weekend after having to postpone the event last weekend. Several holes resembled minature lakes last Saturday and the course would not have been able to handle a full field adequately. The course looks a treat now with the growth almost rising up as you pass by. This is the opposite to what Sunraysia's greenkeepers face nearly every other summer. Over the last ten years in particular, district greenkeepers have faced the dilemma of balancing how much water to put on the greens as to not cook or burn them or starve them. Additionally, during this period water has been either unavailable and or very expensive. Whilst the huge down pours have been destructive to our economy in so many industries, the golf courses have really benifitted from such a big drink. Favourites for the tournament are Mildura's Ashley Whitehouse and Coomealla's Sue Laird. Whitehouse is the standout player in the men's section and it is difficult to see him being beaten if he plays to anywhere near his capacity. 2010 club champion Chris Thomas will be Whitehouse's biggest threat. Thomas played excepionally well to win his first club championship late last year and there is no doubt that he sees 2011 as the year that he intends to put his hand up for district selectors to take notice of. Sue Laird has played little golf through the summer months but she is a classy golfer and should win if she can play to her usual standard. Riverside's Marg Lampard has been a steady improver over the last few years and is best placed to bring home a Riverside victory.
SUNRAYSIA JUNIOR CONTEST STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Sunraysia's top three juniors have been busy contesting State junior tournaments in Victoria, South Australia and next week in Tasmania. Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker, Coomealla's Ryan Laird and Tyler Verbeek have really worked hard on their golf over the summer break so far. All three contested the Victorian Junior Masters at Waverly golf club recently with Tim and Ryan both averaging 79 for the four rounds, one shot better than Tyler. All three boys attested that the greens were like grease lightening, particularly in the last round where the greens were the fastest they had ever played on. Ryan played the South Australian Junior Masters at The Vines golf club in Reynella and shot 77-80 to finish well ahead of former Mildura golfer Jake Laubsch who is obviously taking time to adjust in his new State. This week Tim is playing in the South Australian Junior Open at Kooyonga and next week Ryan is playing two tournaments in Tasmania including the Tasmanian Junior Masters.
SUNRAYSIA DISTRICT GOLF ASSOCIATION PENNANT
The first round of the SDGA pennant season is not due for another five months and some quick thinking needs to happen between now and then if division one pennant is to continue as the districts number one inter club competition. At present only Coomealla, Mildura and to a lesser extent, Broken Hill, look to be able to field competitive teams. Red Cliffs have indicated that with the probable retirement of club champion and district captain Justin McPhee that they will be unable to field a div one team. Riverside have not indicated their intentions yet but unless they are to produce some good players out of a hat, then they will struggle to match the top two. This is of course, if, Tim Walker and Tyler Verbeek go to Mildura or Coomealla. The one suggestion that I have heard that makes sense is that a junior elite team is included in division one pennant. This team would include Walker, Laird and Verbeek and the next group of up and coming juniors. Yes, they wouldn't ne strong at four and five, but, neither would any of the other teams. Robinvale, Merbein and Wentworth are unable to submit a competitive div one team so the junior alternative could be the saviour of the top division. How about it SDGA?
BARNBOUGLE DUNES AND LOST FARM
Our son Garth and three other Coomealla mates Gary Cotter, Aaron Blake and Gavin Hocking have just returned from a golfing sojourn down to Tasmania where they played Barnbougle Dunes and Lost Farm. I was interested to hear about the courses as we are taking our third Sunraysia Golf Tour to Tassie in March. Garth said that the two course were terrific. Barnbougle plays extremely hard if the wind is blowing, which is typical of a links golf course. Lost Farm on the other hand is a much more player friendly test where the fairways are much, much wider. Sufficient to say that Barnbougle has 900 sprinklers and Lost Farm 1500, even though the golf courses are of a similar length. At Barnbougle sand buckets are not taken but all players are asked to replace their divots. If you land in an unfilled divot you can drop at neareset point with no penalty. Several interesting local rules are enforced that you wouldn't see anywhere else. The rough is deemed "a Hazard" and so you can drop at point of entry when you go into the scrub with only a one shot penalty but no going back to the tee. This no doubt is enforced to quicken up the time taken to play and eliminate the possiblilty of snake bites in the heather! You can also place at nearest point in a bunker if your ball finishes in a footprint. English cricketers including Paul Collingwood and past captains Ian Botham and Nasser Hussien were there playing the courses at the same time as our Coomealla contingent. Gary Cotter who plays off 17 at Coomealla parred the front nine at Lost Farm and had the time of his life picking up the booty for the three days from the other three. All four players agreed that Lost Farm had the best views and was the most picturesque course thay had ever played. After hearing their stories we can't wait to see it when we finish our tour and stay there in early April.
Contact me with your golfing stories and information or simply your opinion on email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

12/1/11

RAIN TO STOP SUNRAYSIA TOURNAMENTS THIS WEEK
The enormous amount of rain expected on Thursday and Friday is almost certain to curtail the plans of Coomealla and Eiverside golf clubs this week. Coomealla have their annual junior tournament listed for Thursday and Friday and are expecting a number of entries from outside the district. Nominal favourite is Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker but with 80mm of rain predicted on Thursday, play is unlikely. The Riverside Summer Open tournament is set down for Saturday and Sunday but again, if that amount of rain comes, some holes will be flooded. This occurred at Riverside several weeks back and the course had to be closed for two days until the water dissipated. Riverside has really gone forward in the last twelve months and were expecting a great turn out for the open. It is now in the lap of the Gods.
ROUND TO REMEMBER FOR LOCAL GOLF TEACHING PROFESSIONAL
Garth Doherty is the owner and teaching professional at the Sunraysia Golf Range in Mildura. At Coomealla golf club today he recorded his best ever score of 66 which included six birdies, twelve pars and no bogeys. It is the first time in his golf career that he has recorded a bogey free round. Prior to attaining professional status with the Australian Golf Teaching Association, Garth had won two Riverside club chamionships, one Merbein golf club championships and a Riverside open championship. This great round of 66 followed on from a 70 at Coomealla ten days ago. Garth attributes his good form to being able to practice his skills at the Sunraysia Golf Range and naturally encourages anyone who wants to improve to have a lesson and then practice what they are taught.
BYRD FLIES EARLY IN HAWAI
The Tournament of Champions did not prove to be the happy hunting ground for our Aussies this year. Geoff Ogilvy had to withdraw after cutting his finger on coral, Stuart Appleby had his putter stolen at the airport and never gave a yelp. Adam Scott and Jason Day threatened to contend early in the peace but finished well short of the mark. A playoff saw Johnaton Byrd win against Robert Garrigus at the second playoff hole. Byrd became famous late last year when he won a three man playoff in Las Vegas with a hole in one. Australia's Cameron Percy was one of the other players in the playoff. Byrd now looks to be a seious contender this year and has won a two year exemption to the US Tour courtesy of the win. This week the US Tour stays in Hawai with the Sony Open where thirteen Aussies will tee it up.
Contact me with any golf information on Email golf@sunrausiagolftours.co.au
Good golfing to all.

5/1/11

SCORING RED HOT ON SUNRAYSIA'S GOLF COURSES
The weather has been really mild for Mildura over the Christmas/New Year period but some of the scores being returned at district golf courses has been red hot. Out at Wentworth golf club Bryn Shaw had a mammoth 48 points that included 28 on the back nine. Bryn has only taken up golf seriously in the last six months and he has been working really hard, practising his skills at the Sunraysia Golf Range up to three times a week. The day after his 48 points he booked in for a lesson with the Sunraysia Golf Range teaching professional Garth Doherty. Now that's what I call dedication to improve. Bryn's brother Aaron was a bit stiff on the same day coming in second behind Bryn with 47 points! Aaron's score would win most single events any time and would probable sneak a four ball victory at some courses. At Red Cliffs golf club Greg Young and Neil Wilkie both recorded 45 points equalling Greg Chandler at Riverside golf club. At Coomealla golf club Greg Rhodes had a brilliant 67 off the stick with Garth Doherty also going low with a 70 a week later. With all of the local courses in great condition it only follows that good scores will become more prevalent. Most people are struggling with the new handicapping system with scores of ten or more under handicap only losing one shot. Whilst the overall sytem is probably fairer in the long run, in the short term it is hard to accept someone only being clipped one shot after recording a net 59!
SUNRAYSIA JUNIOR GOLFERS - TO THE FORE
Sunraysia's top junior golfers are all off playing in tournaments in Melbourne and Adelaide this week. Our top junior over the last two years and current Sunraysia District Golf Association champion Jake Laubsch has defected to South Australia in recent weeks. Jake is a super talent but his scores of late have been very poor. Local people are hoping he can recapture his mid year 2010 form when he performed brilliantly in the district championship which he then repeated at Melbourne Country Week in October. It was at this tournament that he really grabbed the attention of the South Australians and they invited his to come and live in Adelaide and bolster their junior stocks. Of the other top juniors Tim Walker, Tyler Verbeek and Ryan Laird are playing in the Junior Masters at Waverly golf club in Melbourne. Tim Walker appears to be the "heir apparrent" to Laubsch's throne but Verbeek and Laird will push him all the way.
TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS
The Hyandai Tournament of Champions in Hawai hits off on Friday morning - our time, and hopefully it will be another Aussie who raises the flaf on Monday morning - our time. Stuart Appleby won this event three years in a row and Geoff Ogilvy won it last year. It is a vey windy course which doesn't seem to faze our blokes as much as the yanks. This year there is a really good spread of international players with 2010 Major winners McDowell,Oosthuizen and a host of other foreign players in the 34 man field. I am really looking forward to following the golf overseas this year.
SCOTLAND/IRELAND GOLF TOUR
We have been pleasantly surprised with the number of enquiries we have had regarding our September 2011 Scotland/Ireland golf tour. Final dates are currently being confirmed with several golf courses and we will be able to release the full itinerary by January 12 when all of the the golfing and accommodation facilities will have been booked. Ireland is a country really reaching out for tourists and visiting golfers so there has never been a better time to visit. Out last golf tour to Scotland/Ireland was in 2000 and we loved Edinburgh and Dublin and all of the smaller towns and villages along the way. Let us know if you would like an itinerary forwarded to you.
Contact me on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

28/12/10

CHRISTMAS IN MILDURA
The Christmas season brings all sorts of life experiences through the door, some really rewarding, others good and the occasional forget about it. We had a lovely Christmas day this year with our son Garth and his family. Our two daughters Carmen and Monica and their families celebrated Christmas in Melbourne. Next year all of our family will be in Mildura which is something Kym and I are really looking forward to. At Christmas it is always great to catch up with people that I haven't seen for years that now play golf and come back to Mildura to see family. Golf is such a fantastic game that you can play until you are in your 80's. I am finding that more and more people are taking up golf in their 50's and 60's. There aren't many sports that you can do that and still be quite good at it. Golfing wise, the golf courses in the Sunraysia district have all been reporting excellent fields and green fee players. With our usual yearly rainfall falling in about six weeks, green- keepers are struggling to keep the growth down. After 32 years as a member of Coomealla golf club I can't remember seeing the golf course as lush as it is at the moment. Usually at this time of year the sprinklers are being overworked but this year it is the opposite with most courses still "drying out". Red Cliffs golf club will host their annual Open Ambrose on New Years Day which always attracts a big field. This year the scoring is sure to be red hot as lots of local golfers have seen their handicaps get bigger by the month. This seems to be more prevalent with the mid to higher handicappers. Saturday will be our hottest day since last summer which will test a few and probably mean a good day for the club in the way of cleansing refreshments.
TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS
The first tournament on the US PGA Tour will be the Hyundai Tournament of Champions at Kapalua, Maui, Hawai from January 6. The tournament can only be played by the players who had won on the US tour in 2010, subsequently 35 players are eligible. Last year (2010) Geoff Ogilvy won after Stuart Appleby had just about made the event his own a couple of years ago. This year we will have four players going around including Ogilvy, Appleby, Adam Scott and Jason Day. Jim Furyk is always a big threat in this tournament as he lives in Hawai and knows the golf course back to front.
PRESIDENTS CUP/AUSTRALIAN OPEN/ AUSTRALIAN MASTERS
It is interesting to see the goings on with the Australian PGA. They are about as switched on as the Australian cricket selectors. It would seem that both of these bodies are highly prejudicial towards anything or anyone Victorian. Surely the correct decision would be to have a lead up event in Melbourne the week before the Presidents Cup. Who cares if it is the Australian Open or the Australian Masters. I agree that the interests of Australian golf far outweigh the interests of IMG but surely the tournament before the Cup should be just around the corner from Royal Melbourne - not in Sydney. If the PGA was fair dinkum then they would have scheduled the Aussie Open in Melbourne as the lead in event. I am interested to get your opinion, respond at golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au.

21/12/10

2011 TRI-STATE MASTERS
The response to the decision of dropping the South Australian leg of the Tri-State Masters has been quite astounding. A lot of people have contacted us to say that they are looking forward to playing in the tournament next year as they won't have to travel to the Riverland. Whilst it was always a long haul for everyone on the Wednesday of the week, we didn't really feel concerned that it was so much of a big deal. Many people though, since the announcement have contacted us to say that they will be coming back to play the Tri-State Masters because of the location of the three legs being in close proximity. The three golf courses that we have chosen are all different and three of our favourites in the Sunraysia district. Coomealla is just a standout golf course on the Murray River. I have been a member there for 31 years and it is in the best condition that it has ever been. The rain that fell in October/November was terrible timing for our wheat farmers and a lot of our grape vineyards but it has been a godsend for our golf courses. After so many years of drought and not being able to find sufficient water to maintain courses, it has been incredible to see the transformation, particularly at Riverside and Red Cliffs. We are delighted to be conducting the first two legs of the Tri-State Masters at Red Cliffs and Riverside Golf Clubs as they have both really emraced the tournament and are very keen and supportive of the event. This will be most refreshing and I am sure our patrons will be very impressed with their welcome and hospitality. Entry forms will be sent to past players and golf clubs at the end of January. All enquiries should be directed to Shane and Kym on 03 50 346799 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au.
2011 TASMANIAN GOLF TOUR
We are really looking forward to our third Tssie golf tour in March 2011. Our previous two golf tours to Tassie were terrific and we have assembled another really nice group of travelers to accompany us. The golf courses we will be playing are quite superb and the cruises and social outings will be great fun in between hits. The finale to the tour will be at Barnbougle Dunes and Lost Farm and personally, I can't wait. We still have several seats on the tour open so give us a call soon if you would like to experience golf in Tasmania with us.
2010 IN WORLD GOLF
The last 12 months have provided some great highlights in world golf. I am not sure if it is because I am getting older and appreciate the finer things in life and golf or because it is that age and/or experience thing that my attention to detail is becoming more acute. Whatever it is, 2010 has been wonderful for the golf tragic's, like me. The Ryder Cup never fails to fascinate me, it is even more appealing when the Europeans win. The Tiger Woods fiasco has been good and bad for the sport, depending on how you see it. Most people thought, as I did, that Tiger Woods was about as clean and reputable as anyone in world sport. What we learnt was that he wasn't. His golf suffered this year but if it hadn't, he would have been even more unbelievable than before the furore. From a golfing perspective, he is still the best golfer in the world, whether he can climb back on to the pedestal that he previously occupied is yet to be seen. If he does, well good on him. Personally I would love to see an Australian win the US Masters and the British Open, wouldn't that be great? Most of the top Aussies seem like really nice people, based on that, I'm hoping for a John Senden, Adam Scott or Jason Day to come through next year. We will have about 30 players in the US so here's hoping!
To everyone that follows our news, please have a happy Christmas and safe and prosperous New Year and never forget that " Its always nice to meet nice people and that memories live longer than dreams".
Contact me on golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au.
Good golfing to all.

14/12/10

NOTHING FINER THAN MERBEIN IN THE SUMMERTIME
Merbein Golf Club recorded a resounding 4/1 win in the final of the Sunraysia District Golf Association Summer Pennant final over Robinvale at Mildura Golf Club Resort on Sunday. Merbein's decision not to alter their line up that had seen them go through the season undefeated, ultimately proved to be correct. Merbein and Robinvale are the association's smallest clubs and it is a credit to both clubs to reach the final and perform so well. Merbein skipper Rodney Poole, though disappointed to lose his match, had a great contest against Richard Bertram, finally finishing at the 20th hole. Undefeated Roger Walder wouldn't give up against a much younger opponent in Cameron McKay, eventually hoisting his fist in relief after the 21st hole. next in line was Aaron Blake who extended stiff opposition to Andrew Horne who succumbed on the 16th. Merbein's "go to man" Smasher McGaffin proved too strong for Vern Morrish in a real whitewash of the veteran 6/5 and Phil Matotek reversed his first round result to defeat David Peniongo 2/1. The Merbein pennant players and committee place much emphasis on their club representation in both winter and summer pennant and that dedication has resulted in pennants in both seasons. On Sunday the team celebrated in no uncertain manner, as anyone would when a plan comes together. The Sunraysia District Golf Association now must build on the excellent pennant response from all clubs this year from Broken Hill to Robinvale. It will be interesting to see how many of the new summer pennant players from all clubs put their hands up to play winter pennant in May next year.
PETER SENIOR TWENTY ONE YEARS ON
Peter Senior first won the Australian PGA Championship in 1989. On Monday he collected his third champions trophy after beating Australian Open Champion Geoff Ogilvy in a play off. Senior has been competing on the rich Seniors circuit in the US this year and has played superby over the last two months. At 51 he is playing better than ever. Former US PGA champion Wayne Grady knows Senior very well and said on television on Sunday that "they make money flat, so that it is easy to stack" and suggested that the mint had Senior in mind when doing this as he has so much of it! Having met Peter several times and interviewed him on the Sunraysia Golf Show it is easy to see why he is so popular. Such an unasuming gentleman who is about as humble a person as you would find anywhere. A really good story to end the golfing year.
AROUND THE CLUBS
Jacob Slimmon, Jake Laubsch and Tim Walker entered the Port Phillip amateur last week at Kingston Heath and Commonwealth Golf Clubs. This event also serves as a pre-qualifying for the Victorian Amateur Championship with the top 32 players after 72 holes going into matchplay for the State's number one amateur title. Slimmon shot 82-78 to make the 36 hole cut by one shot but Laubsch and Walker both struggled with the severe weather conditions. First round leader Deyen Lawson really struggled on the second day, following up a 68 with an 89 to make the cut by four shots.
Former Murray Valley Champion Brendan Rowse is through to the second year of his professional traineeship at Rossdale Golf Club next year. The traineeship is a three year course.
Mildura Golf Club Resort have appointed a host of new key personnel in the last month. New general manager Gordon Gower comes with a wealth of experience having manged golf clubs in several New South Wales regions including Concord Golf Club, Kogarah Golf Club and more recently Bayview Golf Club. Incoming course superintendant is Scott Bremner who was second in charge at Murray Downs for the last eight years. New captain Robert Briggs is a well traveled campaigner who has held several positions on the sub-district association and SDGA as well holding committee position from Ouyen to Riverside and Wentworth. Maurice Warn has been club President for several years and has had the pleasant task of introducing all of the new faces to many of the old faces.
SUNRAYSIA'S BEST IN 2010
Golfer of the Year - Greg Rhodes in a photo from Jake Laubsch
Junior Golfer of the Year - Jake Laubsch from Tim Walker
Club of the Year - Riverside Golf Club from Red Cliffs Golf Club
Greenkeeper of the Year - Brendan Marr from Simon Newy
Personality of the Year - Outgoing SDGA President - Greg McCubbin
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
More rain equals less golf in Sunraysia but that didn't stop a lot of our intrepid golfers last week. At Mildura Golf Club Resort Fred Pelda was seven up, as was Sara Wrate at Riverside. At Wentworth Aaron Shaw had a couple of bad holes but still came in six better than his mark only to lose out to Fred Campbell who was six up. The stand out Round of the Week however, was from Peter Jon Wellington who had eight better than his handicap at Coomealla. Peter Jon wins one dozen Callaway Big Bertha's from the Sunraysia Golf Range which must be collected by Friday at 347 Ontario Ave Mildura.
Contact me with any golf information, stories or opinions on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Have a happy Christmas and a safe New Year.
Good golfing to all.

7/12/10

MERBEIN VERSUS ROBINVALE IN SUMMER PENNANT FINAL
Merbein golf club will start favourites against Robinvale golf club this Sunday in the final of the Sunraysia District Golf Association's Summer Pennant. Merbein were untroubled in overcoming Wentworth in the semi final last Sunday at Riverside winning 4/1. "Smasher" McGaffin was the only Merbein player to lose after a titanic battle with Wentworth's Nathan Gard that went right to the last hole. McGaffin has been Merbein best performer all year in winter and summer pennant and Sundays loss was his first blemish on a white wash year. In the other semi final. Robinvale were too good for the previously undefeated Coomealla with three matches going trough to the last hole. All three finished in favour of the red and whites who ultimately won 4/1. David Peniongo and Vern Morrish have been outstanding all season and if they can win one other match out of the remaining three, it could be an eagles pennant in 2010. The summer pennant match of the year would be between Vern Morrish and Roger Walder, if the numbers fell that way. Both players are renowned for their fighting qualities and it would be an encounter worth going to see. If this match up were to occur, it would no doubt determine which team wins. I am tipping an upset Robinvale victory.
NEW TRI-STATE MASTERS FORMAT FOR 2011
The 19th Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters will be conducted from Sunday May 15 to Friday May 20 2011. This year for the first time, the tournament will be played entirely within the Sunraysia/Mildura precinct. The first round will be played at Red Cliffs golf club on Monday May 16, followed by the second round at Riverside golf club on Wednesday May 18 and finally the third round at Coomealla golf club on Friday May 20. Social games will include a 4BBB stableford at Riverside on Tuesday May 17 which will give players an opportunity to see the course before the following day's second round. An ambrose in fours at Coomealla Thursday May 19 will also be ideal for a preview of Coomealla's layout before Friday's final leg of the tournament. Both Red Cliffs and Riverside have returned to their best condition after retrieving their water entitlements and additionally the excessive rain over the last six months. A decision to skip the South Australian leg of the tournament came following complaints from many long time patrons of the tournament who felt that the 220 kilometre round trip on the Wednesday to the Riverland was excessive after travelling all the way to Mildura from distant regions. Whilst the original concept of three rounds in three different States worked well, circumstances change and event organisers have to be prepared to listen to the people who play in the event, because without them, there is no event. Hopefully many of those people who have dropped out in recent years because of the additional travel will return in 2011 or 2012.
OGILVY AUSTRALIAN OPEN CHAMPION - AT LAST
Victoria's Geoff Ogilvy finally escaped the "best current Australian player" not to win the Australian Open tag at The Lakes on Sunday. Ogilvy has long been regarded as one of our best four players which included, Robert Allenby, Adam Scott and Stuart Appleby who have all won our Open previously. The next tier of previous winners based on recent form would include John Senden, Aaron Baddeley, Peter Lonard and Craig Parry. Other recipients of the Stonehaven trophy include Stephen Allan, Greg Chalmers and Peter Senior who is now a senior player on the over 50's circuit. Ogilvy though, is the only one amongst this group to win a "Major" when he won the 2006 US Open. Since 2006 he hasn't gone on with the job that most people expected from him, at 33 he is still in the prime of his career and next year could be his biggest ever. Last week he equalled Jack Nicklaus and Mark Calcavecchia as the second lowest winning 72 hole score in the Australian Open, only Gary Player has bettered Ogilvy's the 19 under total. This week at Coolum the Australian PGA will be contested with all of our top players in attendance. Robert Allenby won it last year as well as in 2005. Adam Scott looks a good bet as he should be nice and relaxed and a bit fresher than Allenby who had to fly back from South Africa where he unsuccessfully defended his crown in the Nedbank Challenge. John Senden was second at Coolum last year so he might be Scott's biggest. That is unless of course, Geoff Ogilvy doesn't keep the ball rolling for two wins in two weeks.
WESTWOOD TOO GOOD IN SOUTH AFRICA
England's Lee Westwood streeted the field in the Nedbank Challenge in South Africa on Sunday. Westwood's win made certain that he would retain the world number one status at least until February. From day one Westwood appeared a class above the other competitors and won with a leg in the air. The Gary Player golf course throws up many sights you would never see anywhere else in the world. The national park next door to the course has elephants, baboons, zebras and all sorts of jungle animals just meandering around. The bird life is amazing and the televises of the event include lots of vision of the animals and birds every night during the coverage. This year was the 30th anniversary of the first event when American Johnny Miller beat Spain's Seve Ballesteros in a play off.
McDOWELL TAMES THE TIGER
Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell capped off his greatest year as a golfer so far when he won the Chevron World Challenge in California on Sunday. McDowell won in a playoff with Tiger Woods after coming from four shots behind on the final day. Woods had never lost when he has been three shots or more in front before. The Irishman knocked in two nerve-racking twenty foot plus putts on the 18th hole to get into the playoff and then win it. What a year he has had, victories in the US Open at Pebble Beach, Wales Open, Andalucia Valderrama Masters, Chevron World Challenge and being the European player who sunk the winning putt to defeat the US in the Ryder Cup. All the talk surrounded Woods and his return to form over the first three days of the tournament but to lose after being four shots in front is unTigerish, more Normanish. Next year looks like being better than ever and most people expect Woods to return to his best after an uncomfortable year in 2010.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The rain kept many local golfers away from our Sunraysia courses over the past week but there were still plenty of good scores to choose from for the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week. At Mildura Golf Club Resort Joe Cifti came in seven better than handicap as did Vince Dichiera at Coomealla on Saturday, then again on Sunday. Peter Loiacano had a super 64 net at Merbein and was unlucky to lose on the toss of a coin. The winner of one dozen Srixon AD333 golf balls was Riverside's Kevin Eastwood who had 44 stableford points. Kevin can pick up the Srixons by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave.
Contact me with your golfing information, stories or opinion at Email golf@sunraysiadaily.com.au
Good golfing to all.

30/11/10

MERBEIN AND COOMEALLA SUMMER PENNANT FAVOURITES
Merbein and Coomealla both finished undefeated in their respective divisions of the 2010 Sunraysia District Golf Associations Summer Pennant. Merbein will now face Wentworth in the first semi final at Riverside on Sunday in what will be a cracker of a contest. Merbein have higher handicappers compared to Wentworth who have three low markers in Alan Lilla, Phil Lawn and Nathan Gard. Lawn had a hole in one on the 12th at Red Cliffs on Sunday but still went down to Riverside's "jumping Jack" Thomas. Merbein's "Smasher" McGaffin took all before him in winter pennant and has carried on this summer. Throw in Roger Walder, Aaron Blake, Des Foreman and Rodney Poole and it is a very competitive unit. It could all come down to the last match between Merbein's Phil Matotek and Wentworth's Alan Lilla who will have to concede six shots. In the other semi, Coomealla have looked the goods so far but Robinvale have three men who could advance their team to the final. David Peniongo has played great matchplay golf and will get enormous support from Vern Morrish and Richard Bertram. The final will be played at Mildura on December 11 and even though both matches look as though a toss of the coin could decide both, I'm tipping a Merbein - Robinvale final. Summer pennant has been terrific this year with all clubs represented and great spirit displayed by all players and clubs.
GREG McCUBBIN
Greg McCubbin stepped down from the presidency of the Sunraysia District Golf Association having served in the position for four years. McCubbin first came to Mildura from Ballarat in 1993 where he played at Mt Xavier golf club. Soon after he was elected as vice captain at Coomealla for two years before he moved his home club status to Riverside in 1997. At Riverside he had two stints as captain as well as being on the committee for over ten years. In December 2007 he took over from Brendan O'Brien and has worked hard to resurrect district golf during a difficult time. The drought effected all golf clubs and subsequently a lot of golfers stopped playing regularly. It has also been a time when many golfers have changed clubs for varying reasons including, course condition, subscription costs and club personnel changes. Yesterday he spoke of his time as the districts peak officer "It has been a interesting and difficult time in district golf. The popularity of golf in the 90's dropped off, mainly due to the drought through this decade but interest is returning and there seems to be a bit of a resurgence at some clubs. I am really pleased with how we have been able to involve all clubs including Robinvale and Wentworth back into our pennant structure. Another important factor has been the inclusion of Broken Hill into our association". New association president is Coomealla's Brian Tyers, Mildura's Steven Henshall is vice president and Coomealla's Sue Laird remains secretary. The association is desperately seeking a junior development officer as currently we have one of our best group of juniors for quite some time. Contact Brian on 0427 274 155 if you feel you can help.
AUSTRALIAN OPEN
The 2010 Australian Open will be played at The Lakes golf club this week. Greg Norman won the first of his five Australian Opens at The Lakes 30 years ago but is not considered a realistic chance this year. Nor is American Fred Couples, his compatriot John Daly or Australian Senior Open winner Peter Senior. Only younger men usually win this event with Peter Thomson at age 43 being the oldest ever winner at Kooyonga in 1972. Last years winner Adam Scott is back in top form after winning his third Singapore Open a fortnight ago. Stuart Appleby is hoping to win his second Aussie Open and is our most recent local winner at the Australian Masters at Victoria golf club. One player to watch is Chinese Wen-Chong Liang who shot a course record 64 at Whistling Straits in this this years US PGA. Another chance could be one of Australia's oldies in Peter O'Malley who won the NSW Open last week and is a member at the Lakes. Coverage on channel 10 begins on Thursday.
KAYMER EUROPE'S NUMBER ONE
Germany's Martin Kaymer starved off all threats to pick up Europe's number one player accolade and accompanying booty bonus at Dubai on the weekend, even though he finished well down the list. Swede Robert Karlsson won the Dubai World Championship on the second hole of a play off with England's Ian Poulter. Poulter was penalised one stroke for moving his marker on the green after he had accidentally dropped his ball on it. Most people including the television commentators didn't know that this unfortunate action results in a penalty. Poulter who had won the Hong Kong Open the previous week played sensational golf but was just pipped. Karlsson played well in the first
round for a 65 only to slip up with a 75 in the second round then storm home. The first tournament for 2011 on the European Tour will be played in South Africa this week.
TIGER'S LAST CHANCE
Tiger Woods will be hoping for a change of luck and form when he tees it up in his own tournament in California this week. The Chevron World Challenge is a select 18 man field that includes most of the US superstars of golf and a few from Europe including Ian Poulter, Rory McIlroy, Graeme McDowell, Paul Casey and Luke Donald who won this event in 2005. Tiger has won the tournament four times since it's inception in 1990. So far this year he is winless for the first time since he broke onto the PGA Tour in 1996. Jim Furyk won last year but Dustin Johnson has had an exceptional year where bad luck probably cost him two majors. Tiger though, is still the man to beat!
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Even though there was lots of rain over the last week there were still a few "Crisp" rounds to fight out the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the week. Those to better their handicaps by six shots included Coomealla's David King and Josh McAskill, Wentworth's Bill Murray and Merbein's Clive Knudsen. At Mildura, bluebagger Eric Jenner had 44 points to be runner up to Riverside's Anthony De Amicis who had +9. Anthony can collect his prize of one dozen Srixon AD333 from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information, stories or opinions at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

23/11/10

GOLF VICTORIA - VGA AND WGV AMALGAMATE
On Monday the Victorian Golf Association and Women's Golf Victoria officially amalgamated and became Golf Victoria. Initially an interim board with four representatives from each association will administer the organization until the election of a nine person board in April. Both of the headquarters of each organization will be sold with new headquarters planned to be built on a golf course where education and training facilities can be built to further educate Victoria'S up and coming juniors and representative teams. This move is seen as the best alternative for all golf clubs and golfers in Victoria. The spin doctors are saying that "It is an opportunity to better position the game for the future". As well as that little gem it is also suggested that two into one adds up to a more efficient organization which eliminates duplication and allows a higher standard of governance and decision making. The next 12 months will certainly be an interesting time as the two bodies jostle for position, hopefully for the betterment of the game. I think you and I both know, that, at the end of the day "she who must be obeyed" might be the stronger party, or will she? Am I being a bit cynical or wouldn't you love to be a fly on the wall at the first few board meetings?
2010 SDGA SUMMER PENNANT
The 2010 Sunraysia District Golf Association summer pennant season has been well supported by all district golf clubs this year. Eight clubs submitted teams including Wentworth, Robinvale and sub district club Ouyen who are the first club entered every summer. This year the clubs were split into two divisions with three matches played at Robinvale, Merbein and Red Cliffs. After the three rounds the top sides in each division will play the second team in the other division at Riverside on December 5, the two winners then clash in the final at Mildura on December 12. Summer pennant provides an ideal opportunity for clubs to introduce new players to the inter club matchplay format and reacquaint other members who haven't played pennant for a while. Vern Morrish is one such player who has represented both Sunraysia and Kara Kara at Melbourne Country Week in the past and is back playing for Robinvale. Vern hasn't lost that fighting spirit winning both of his matches so far. Anyone who beats him will have really earned it as he is one fierce competitor. Round one was played at Robinvale, some players hadn't played the course before and were more than impressed with the lay out. Robinvale has long been regarded as one of our districts best tests of golfing skill. On a per capita basis, Robinvale has probably produced more top players than any other golf club in the district. With Vern at the teams helm, Robinvale are headed for the finals this year. Merbein hosted round two and are the team to beat, as usual. No club takes summer pennant more seriously than Merbein. Roger Walder is another man with his fair share of competitiveness and his drive will ensure that the pies are in the finals again this year. In the other side of the draw Coomealla and Riverside look best placed to make the finals. The last round will be played at Red Cliffs this week with the key matches between Mildura who must beat Merbein to have a chance of playing in the semi finals and Wentworth who play Riverside to fight out for the other semi final spot. The SDGA Annual General Meeting will be conducted at Red Cliffs Golf Club this Sunday at 4pm. Any district golf club member is welcome to attend.
SENIOR WINS AUSSIE SENIORS TITLE IN PERTH
Peter Senior won the 2010 Australian Senior Golf Championship from former US Masters winner Sandy Lyle at Royal Perth on Sunday. Senior shot rounds of 65-70-72 to win by three strokes from Lyle who shot 73-68-69. Senior had recently completed his first year on the rich US Senior Tour and was cherry ripe to win after just missing out on a play off last year against eventual winner Mike Harwood. The Senior Tours (over 50) are becoming really popular and although Australia is well behind the US and Europe, this years championship was well supported. Major winners past included Ian Baker Finch who recently turned 50, Sandy Lyle, Ian Woosnam and Wayne Grady. As time moves on Seniors golf around the world is getting bigger every year. Riverside hosted three Senior Pro Am's from 2000-2002 which were very popular. Maybe it is time that an enterprising club look to re introduce a Senior pro am. At that time there weren't a lot of senior professionals playing the circuit but that situation has improved and there is scope for a great event.
THE RACE TO DUBAI
England's Ian Poulter won the Hong Kong Open at the weekend with a masterful performance by one stroke from fellow countryman Simon Dyson and Italian Matteo Manassero. Several years ago Poulter put his foot into his mouth by saying "If everyone played their very best it would come down to Tiger and me" At the time he was universally scoffed at by everyone including Tiger Woods. Since then he has really become a force in world golf, both in tournament play and even more so in the last couple of Ryder Cups, where he has undoubtedly been the most dominant player. On Friday he shot a 10 under par 60 playing with Irelands Rory McILroy who shot 66. The Fanling golf course where they play the tournament in Hong Kong is fantastic, they set it up for good scoring, providing great exciting golf for the galleries and television viewers. During the tournament there were 12 scores of 63 or better. Australia's Marcus Fraser finished 10th at 16 under par to trail Poulter 67-60-64-67-258 by six shots. This week the 48th tournament of the year covering 27 destinations on the European Tour marks the final of the Race to Dubai. Germany's Martin Kaymer is in first place ahead of Ireland's Graeme McDowell, both have had great years with McDowell winning the US Open and Kaymer winning the US PGA. If either win on Sunday they will pick up a bonus cheque for 1,092418 euros as the Race to Dubai winner. All up $7,500,000 will be divided between the top 60. So far this year 17 year old Manassero has won 846,705 euros, which not bad for a teenager. Last years winner Lee Westwood who has since become world number one is in third place but cannot overtake the top two. The Dubai World Championship is being touted as the "Greatest Show on Earth" which is a play on words as the event will be played on the Greg Norman designed Earth course in Dubai. World golf has been totally dominated and controlled by the Americans for the last 70 years up until last year when the Race to Dubai challenged the pull of the US FEDEX Cup. Now all of the top Europeans have returned to play the major European events. Interestingly, of the four majors only the US Masters was won by an American ( Phil Mickelson) with Louis Oosthuizen, Kaymer and McDowell winning the British Open, US Open and the US PGA. The Race to Dubai begins tomorrow.
AROUND THE CLUBS
The big event this week is the annual "Concert on the Course" at Red Cliffs golf club on Friday night. Dubbed the "Here Comes Christmas" concert this year, it should be a great night. Families are encouraged to go with only $55 per family or $25 per single. A two course meal and lots of dancing, socialising and good fun in a most hospitable atmosphere. The invitation says "just rock up" so why not pop out to the Cliffs for a great night out.
Great to see Mildura and Riverside have resurrected their two club challenge. Reading their notes, it reports that the Riverside ladies knocked off the Mallee Root Challenge and the Riverside men were the Inter Course champions this year. It's great to see the two Mildura based clubs who, have both had their ups and downs over the years, back working together both on and off the course.
Wentworth golf club are conducting their annual "Curator's Day" which is a 4 person ambrose. Only $10 per player, sausage sizzle at 12-30, shot gun start at 1pm. This year the curators have promised to put some of the pins in easy to get at places, yeah right! And we believe that too. It is always a great fun day and the Wentworth course is looking a treat.
Most clubs are in the middle of AGM's and new committee appointments, more news on that front next week.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Great weather, great courses, equals great scores in the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week. Marg Hammence was eight better than her mark at Red Cliffs as was Simon Guthrie at Coomealla and Wayne Dahmes at Mildura. The top two rounds of the week were Max Turvey's 62 net in the Monthly Medal at Merbein and Ian Burrows +10 at Coomealla. Being a Monthly Medal Max gets the nod by a nose and can pick up one doxen Srixon AD333 from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Ave Mildura by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information, stories or opinions at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

16/11/10

APPLEBY WINS AUSTRALIAN MASTERS
Stuart Appleby was a surprise winner of the JB Were Australian Masters on Sunday when he came from the clouds to win from nowhere. On Sunday he drained some crucial putts on 16 and 17 which set up his victory. Last week he played poorly in the HSBC tournament in Shanghai China finishing 11 over par, which included a closing 80 to for equal 69th out of a field of 80. It just goes to show yet again, the man who putts well is usually the man who wins. Tiger Woods found his putter on the last nine but he had left his run just a little bit late, whereas Adam Bland just kept burning the side of the hole. Appleby came to Melbourne with low expectations, even though Victoria golf club is a course he has played at many times over the years, particularly when he was a teenage amateur up the road at Yarra Yarra golf club. In the late 80's and early 90's when this tournament was played at Huntingdale, Appleby who was still an amateur, was always on the practice putting green in front of the club house practising his putting for hours during the tournament. It would be of no surprise if at some stage in the future if he were to admit that the Australian Masters in Melbourne was the tournament that he had always most wanted to win. You could see back then that this kid was destined to be a professional golfer of substance. Appleby played in Mildura as a junior for the Northern District Golf Association and knows Mildura quite well. Several years later I was fortunate to play 36 holes with him in the pre qualifying for the 1991 Victorian Amateur championship. He went on to win that championship and turned professional in 1992. Since turning pro he has won 15 tournaments including 9 on the US Tour, the Australian Open and now the Masters. This surely must put him in Australia's top 10 golfers of all time. I have met him several times since, as well as interviewing him on three occasions on the local Sunday morning Sunraysia Golf Show. After the last interview in 2004 he agreed to do a promo for a serial that we had put together at 3MA called The Ifonly's. The serial was done on a shoe string budget and was never destined to become a golfing version of Blue Hills but it had 10 episodes, after each episode Stuart would be heard to sign off saying "make sure listen to 3MA for the Ifonly's". We made some CD's of the 10 episodes but I decided (on advice) not to send him a copy, in case, after hearing it, he would say "If only I had listened to it first".
BLANDY YOU BEAUTY
Adam Bland represents South Australia these days but many of his extended family still live in Sunraysia. Adam's dad Ian had two brothers Graham (Tommy), Trevor and a sister Noelene. Adam went to school in Buronga before the family moved to Adelaide just over 20 years ago. As a junior he started his sporting career as a tennis player and won the under 13 S A championship in Adelaide as a right hander. At fourteen he began playing golf as a right hander (with a left handed back the front grip) using dads clubs on a nearby football ground at Flagstaff Hill. Soon after his interest in golf increased and dad bought him a left handed set of clubs. His golfing career began at Thaxted Park then he moved to Royal Adelaide and finally back to Flagstaff Hill. From there he was spotted by the Australian Institute of Sport and he moved to Melbourne to continue his development under their guidance with other golfers such as James Nitties, Aaron Price and Craig Scott. Since then it has not been easy for the left hander as he has played on tours all over the world in the last six years. This year he has made less than $100,000 on the secondary US Nationwide Tour hardly covered expenses after doing much better in 2009 when he made $185,000. There are a number of Aussies on the Nationwide tour including Alastair Presnell, Steve Bowditch, Scott Gardiner, Andrew Buckle and Nick Flanagan who all stick together and share motel and travel costs. Last year two of Adam's closest mates in Cameron Percy and Michael Simm qualified for the US PGA Tour. Today he plays stage two of the qualifying school to try and win his way onto that rich US Tour. On Sunday he pocketed his biggest cheque so far with $153,000 and intends to move his girlfriend Rebecca and their daughter (due on Christmas day) to the US. Though his dad Ian swapped allegiance from Collingwood to the Crows, Adam has steadfastly stayed with the black and whites. Up until very recently Adam sported a black and white grip on his putter and talked up his love of the pies all last week. Adam and his mates watch Aussie rules on pay TV whenever they can in the US. On Monday Ian and Trevor drove back from Melbourne to Adelaide after four of the most exciting days of their lives. Uncle Trevor (who works locally for Mildura truck Centre) was gob smacked at his nephews performance saying "we are just so proud of Adam. Not only for the way he played but also how kind he was to some of the kids along the fairways. He must have autographed and signed at least 20 golf balls that he gave to the kids. By Sunday there were about 30 family and friends following him every step of the way. I was just so nervous I could hardly watch. He was so calm and relaxed, it was just unbelievable". On Sunday Ian and Trevor and the family found it hard to get near Adam as there was about 300 people following him and cheering his every move and calling out "go Blandy". Ian summed up his son's performance saying " Adam said at the start of the week that he would be happy just to make the cut, to lead for so long and get pipped by one shot was just a fantastic performance. It would have been nice for him, and us if he had won but we are all just so proud of him". Since taking on Ian Triggs as his new coach last year, Adam's game has really started to improve. Triggs most famous pupil is Karrie Webb and he has suggested that Adam has all the shots to become successful on the US PGA Tour if he can only just qualify this year or next. With a bit of luck this most recent change of form and fortune might well be the kick-start he needs to propel him onto the US Tour next year. Win lose or draw though, Ian, Trevor and most of the family will make their yearly pilgrimage up to Coolum for the Australian PGA in December to support Adam in their Bland version of Follow the Sun.
TASMANIAN GOLF TOUR - MARCH 2011
In September we took 30 people on our sixth Sunraysia Golf Tour to New Zealand. Next March we are taking our third Sunraysia Golf Tour to Tasmania, which I regard as Australia's smaller version of New Zealand. Some of the golf courses in Tassie are superb. Mowbray and Ulverstone are two of my favourites as are Tasmania and Royal Hobart. Throw in the gorgeous nine hole lay out at Port Arthur - Tasman golf club, and most people will go home happy. To finish up the tour we will be doing something really special, staying on course at Barnbougle Dunes, regarded as Australia's number one public access course and it's newest arrival, Lost Farm which is next door and part of the Barnbougle experience. Interspersed along the way will be a wilderness heritage steam train journey, two cruises and lots of fun. Out motto since we began our golf tours business is "it's always nice to meet nice people and memories live longer than dreams'. Every year we take away folk, many of whom have never been on a golf tour before, who quite often write back afterwards and endorse our motto as more fact than hearsay.
So far 16 people have decided to join us, we have only 12 spots still available. Ring Kym on 0408310532 or drop into the Sunraysia Golf Range for more information and a full itinerary.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The inclement weather last week didn't dampen the scores too much with the usual high standard to win the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week still required. 78 year old Noel Rogers had 42 points at Mildura and bettered his age by one which is well worthy of a mention, but just off the pace. Aaron Blake at Merbein, Janet Stanbrook at Mildura and John Wass at Riverside all had 43 points bettering their handicap by seven shots. The Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week was won comfortably by another veteran in Al Terrell from Riverside with 45 points. Al has probably played as many rounds of golf at Riverside in the last 20 years as anyone I know, he loves it. Al can pick up his prize of one dozen Srixon AD333 by Friday.
Contact me with your golfing information, stories or opinions at Email golf@sunraysiagolfttours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

10/11/10

GREG RHODES CONQUERS COOMEALLA
Greg Rhodes began the third round of the 2010 Coomealla golf club championship three shots clear of Cameron Stewart on Saturday. Rhodes was almost speechless before the game due to a lacerated tongue he received while chopping wood the Sunday before. Starting on the tenth hole he proceed to tear up the tough Coomealla circuit, shooting a five under par 31 for his first nine holes. This is awesome golf at any level, more particularly in a club championship under the sternest of conditions. On the second nine his driver deserted him and collapsed with a 39. No doubt, he was thinking a 64 or 65 was there for the taking, but being Greg, he would never mention it. This gave him a three round total of 72-70-70 and a ten shot lead over Cameron Stewart who had recorded a disappointing 77. Rhodes then played his worst round of the championship on Sunday for a 73 which was good enough to win by fourteen strokes from Stewart. There are few clubs around Australia where a three under par total over 72 holes wouldn't win the club championship. At 51 years of age, Rhodes is still showing the young blokes how to consistently get the job done, irrespective of the weather, bunkers full of water, medical set backs and opponent competition. Yes, he has lost a few, but over the last thirty years those losses have been few and far between. You know, walking into a golf club he is one of the last people you would think to be such a champion, but he is. He looks like he's going out for a Sunday morning nine holes with a few mates and never ever talks himself up. Doesn't have to, as his clubs and subsequent scores do that for him Long may he reign, even if it is in daggy old jeans and runners.
AUSTRALIAN MASTERS AT VICTORIA
Tiger Woods is back in Melbourne this week to defend his 2009 Australian Masters title. Circumstances have changed significantly since that memorable last day at Kingston Heath golf club for Tiger and the golfing world in general. The 2009 Aussie Masters was Tigers last win, he really hasn't been a factor this year in most tournaments he has contested. There is no doubt that wherever he plays the sizzle is almost always bigger than the sausage. This more so in recent times since his form has dropped off. Victoria golf club presents a different challenge than that of Kingston Heath. It is a much tighter golf course and subsequently many players will be leaving their drivers in the bag for most of the day. I was at Victoria in 2002 when Stephen Allan won the Australian Open. He did it by keeping his ball on the fairway and putting brilliantly. Woods is still the best player in the world when his game is on song. It really all revolves around his tee shots because after that he is dynamite. There are lots of birdie holes on offer at Victoria and the last two holes are par fives where eagles will be plentiful. It won't surprise if the winner comes in 20 under par this week. That would be great because spectators and viewers love to see eagles and birdies, not double and triple bogies. Geoff Ogilvy, Robert Allenby or even Nathan Green could be our champion this year. Green is a beautiful driver of the ball and is in top form lately. Sergio Garcia hasn't given a yelp since Greg Norman's daughter dropped him and he has only played sparingly in the last three months. It's hard to see him as a factor this week. Carmillo Villegas is the smokey and could be the biggest challenger from the top line visitors. Make sure you watch the last couple of days as Victoria is a sensational golf course, Woods is the best ever, no doubt about it, and it might be our last opportunity to see him in Australia. He is a champion golfer and that could lift him over the line. Champions can lose their swing but they never lose their will to win and the killer instinct that is required at the top level. This week I am hoping that with a touch of brilliant play and a bit of good luck three Aussies might land the trifecta - Green, Allenby and Ogilvy. Wouldn't that be something?
GOLF PROMOTION OF SUNRAYSIA'S GOLF COURSES AND TOURNAMENTS
During the week I had a meeting with two Mildura Rural City Council councillors with the view to organising some funding for a promotion of Sunraysia's major golf tournaments and our beautiful golfing facilities. The councillors were very open to working with our golf clubs to put together a strategy to attract more golfers to Mildura. Our district has hosted some big tournaments over the last ten years but we really haven't capitalised on their success with follow up advertising and referrals. There are several reasons for this including, lack of funding, volunteers running events and tournament who are only temporary appointments and lack of understanding about such follow up. Subsequently our district is missing out on hosting many events that we could get if there was a chain of procedure that is needed to be followed. It is one thing to promote events within our own district ( which is not good either) but to reach the wider spectrum of golfers in other regions is much harder. Some events, tournaments, golf clubs and golf regions do it so much better than others. Quite frankly the promotion of Sunraysia golf outside of our region is almost non existent. For this to change the golf clubs themselves must get off their collective backsides and meet with the council and put a strategy together, otherwise our major tournaments will cease to exist within 3 to 5 years and all of our golf clubs will be relying on chook raffles to survive.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This week there were some great performances on district golf courses. Coomealla's club championships produced some great performances from Greg Rhodes but as the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week is a handicap award, Greg misses out. Al Terrell at Riverside and Col Harrison at Mildura both bettered their handicaps by seven shots as did Jim Douglas at Wentworth. At Riverside Scott Connolly and Jeff Riordan both excelled with nine better than their marks which would win most weeks of the year. On Sunday at Riverside Graeme Sievewright had 46 points in the annual die hards day. To better your handicap by ten strokes is a Herculean performance and Graeme must have called on all of his resources to pull it off. As such Graeme win one dozen Srixon golf ball from the Sunraysia Golf Range which must be collected by Friday.
Contact me with your golfing information or stories on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

3/11/10

RHODES IN CHARGE AT COOMEALLA
Greg Rhodes took the lead after round one of the 2010 Coomealla golf club championships on Saturday recording an even par 72 in testing weather conditions. Forty players elected not to play on Saturday due to the inclement weather leaving a field of 93 but Rhodes was undeterred. The harder the conditions the bigger advantage for the best players and Rhodes always finds a way of rising to the occasion as he went out in 38 and came home in 34. In second place two shots back was the ever reliable Cameron Stewart who had 74. Stewart has been very consistent over the years but has never been able to snatch a club championship. This has been mainly due to golfers of the ilk of Rhodes and Ashley Whitehouse. Ryan Laird was a further two strokes back in third position. Defending champion Jake Laubsch was eight off the pace after a disappointing 80. On Sunday morning disaster struck for Rhodes when he was chopping wood and hit a piece of steel embedded in a log, which caused him to bite his tongue severing it severely. After spending a considerable time waiting for attention in out patients he abandoned the wait so as not to miss his tee off time, he relied on pain killers to get him through his round. They must have worked a treat as he came in with a great round of 35-35-70. Understandably his playing partners said that his usual conversational exchanges were replaced by a steely concentration and focussed strategy. Rhodes nearest rival, Cameron Stewart was also in the groove as he hit fourteen fairways and fifteen greens in regulation in posting a 37-34-71. If only a few putts had fallen, Stewart could easily have had 67 or 68. It is the best I have seen Cameron play, if he can maintain that form on Saturday he will give Rhodes a real run for his money. Unfortunately Laird shot an 81 and Laubsch's title defence crumbled after an 80. With two rounds to go this weekend only two players remain in contention. For one it will be a chance to regain that mantle of number one in the district that slipped off the mantle piece for only a few months, for the other a chance to win a first ever club championship and beat Sunraysia's best ever golfer.
JACK TYRRELL - WHISPERING JACK
On Saturday many of Sunraysia's golfing fraternity attended the funeral of Jack Tyrrell. Jack was a member of Red Cliffs for many years and had two stints as president in 179-80 and 2001-02. Jack was born with a voice that he projected with consummate ease and without ever having to meaningly raise his voice. Jack was an avid golfer after he gave up another game he had loved - cricket. As a fastish medium pacer Jack would often ask the question of the umpire if he hit the pads or got a nick. Folklore had it that on at least one occasion whilst appealing a decision whilst playing in Red Cliffs a umpire officiating in Ouyen responded "yes he's out". Jack often said that "the only reason they elected me as president at Red Cliffs golf club was that they couldn't afford a microphone". This of course was not the case as one had already been donated! One Saturday Graeme Duffy and Andrew Wood were teeing off on the 16th at Red Cliffs when they heard Jack scream out "you little Ripper". Woody thought Jack must have birdied the 11th which was about 350 metres away. After the game Woody approached Jack and said "did you birdie the 11th Jack"? To which Jack replied "no the 2nd". which is another 400 metres away! Jack achieved many things for the club during his presidency including the erection of the equipment shed and greenkeepers quarters and as such the "dad army" that assist with course maintenance every Monday have asked the committee to name the building The Jack Tyrrell Pavilion. In 2001 Jack was elected president of the Sunraysia Veteran Golfers Association and shortly after the committee decided to apply for the 2004 National Championships. Sunraysia duly won this honour and Jack approached me to be the tournament director. We had always got on well together and I was happy to accept the position in the knowledge that I had Jacks full support. The 2004 AVGA championship hosted by Sunraysia saw over 700 competitors and their wives which is still by far the biggest and most successful championship in the AVGA's history. Jack was fantastic, as were all the local vets that assisted. At the closing presentation dinner at the Setts, Jack's wife Marion and two of her friends performed an Andrews Sisters routine that nearly bought the house down. The ladies did three encores and it was a wonderful way to conclude the weeks activities. My lasting memory was that of Jack Tyrrell who couldn't take his eyes off Marion. I don't think he realised the other two ladies were in the group! To be still so in love after 50 years of marriage said a lot about Jack and also Marion. After a week of highlights that was the one moment that I enjoyed the most. Good on you Jack, we won't forget you.
GOLF EQUIPMENT
As a result of the Australian dollar becoming so strong compared to the US dollar golf equipment prices have begun to plummet. I began working in the golf industry almost 25 years ago and am amazed at some of the deals that are now available. One aspect that unfortunately has arisen in recent times however, is the counterfeiting of all brands of golf equipment. In Beijing on September 14 the US Golf Manufacturing Anti-Counterfeiting Group raided a golf equipment store in the Yashow Market which is one of several shopping centres in Beijing that are frequented by tourists and bargain hunters. The raid led to the arrest of the store owners and the seizure of 7,474 counterfeit golf products including golf clubs, balls, shoes, hats, gloves,bags, caps and other accessories. The local pricing bureau determined that the value of the seized golf products was $850,746 (USD) based on the retail price of the authentic goods. This raid was one of many that have been carried out by Anti-Counterfeiting Group which was formed in 2004 and whose members include Acushnet, Titleist - Footjoy, Callaway, Top Flite, Ben Hogan, Cleveland, Srixon, Never Compromise, Nike, Ping, Taylor Made, Adidas and Ashworth. Unfortunately there are many counterfeiters operating around the world who copy golf equipment and sell it on the internet. Be wary of any product that is unusually low in price or you may finish up with something that looks like but isn't the real thing.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week came down to a countback again this week with the weather dictating few really low scores. At Wentworth Ron Lyell had six better than his handicap as did Jim Stephen at Riverside. Over at Coomealla Richard Tankard stoned them on Wednesday with a seven under 65. On Saturday the conditions were pretty tough and for Tracey Wright to have plus 7 at Red Cliffs was enough to clinch her one dozen Srixons and the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week. Call into the Range by Friday Tracey to pick up your prize.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion at Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

27/10/10

SWANSONG FOR JAKE LAUBSCH?
Defending champion Jake Laubsch may be playing his last local major tournament when he contests the 2010 Coomealla golf club championships this weekend. The South Australian Golf Association have targeted Jake and his family over the last few months and a move to Adelaide is planned by early next year. This would be a great opportunity for Jake but it is a big move to uproot the whole family so there are some details that need to be taken care of before it happens. The SAGA has obviously been impressed with Jakes play in some of the Victorian junior tournaments and see him as a State player of the future at both junior and senior levels. Laubsch has been our number one player this year winning the Sunraysia District Golf Association's championship at Mildura in July and playing superbly at Country Week last month.
The Coomealla championship will be his first time as a defending champion and as such he will be the hunted after being the hunter last year. Greg Rhodes is his obvious main opposition and has rarely ever been touted as the number two seed in any local tournament. Rhodes took a four stroke advantage into the final 18 holes last year only to lose to Laubsch. The same result occurred in the SDGA championship in July when Rhodes again had a four stroke advantage going into the second round, only to lose to Laubsch again. Many think that Laubsch has Rhodes measure but I'm not sure if that's true. It sets up for a delicious finale to the year, particularly if Laubsch and Rhodes are neck and neck going into the last round on Sunday week. On paper it looks like a two horse race but Jacob Slimmon, Andrew or Cameron Stewart would be chances if they play at their very best, which is hard to do at Coomealla for four rounds. A big field of one hundred and thirty players will hit off on Saturday but only one will hold the cup on Sunday week, will it be Laubsch or Rhodes?
PHIL LAWN WINS RIVERTOWN'S CLASSIC
Phil Lawn was the 54 hole men's champion of the 2010 Rivertown's Classic played at Loxton, Wentworth and Mildura golf clubs at the weekend. Lawn played extremely well shooting a career best 69 off the stick for 43 stableford points at Wentworth on Saturday. Two 38 pointers at Loxton and Mildura saw him win by 11 points from Loxton's Daryl Tyler. In the ladies section Loxton's Karen Flight had a blinder averaging 44 points each day. Flights aggregate of 132 points is quite staggering to play so well on three entirely different courses, she won by 13 points from club mate Deirdre Fogden. Numbers for the event were disappointing and the organisers really have to look at promoting the event more or it will disappear before too long. All of our major events need a real re-jig and promotion both within our district and to other regions is a big must.
PERCY SECOND IN LAS VEGAS
Former Mildura South schoolboy Cameron Percy missed out on his biggest ever pay day when he was pipped on the fourth play off hole in Las Vegas on Sunday after playing opponent Johathon Byrd holed in one. Percy still pocketed $378,400 but needs to finish fourth or better to win another $250,00 next week in the Children's Miracle Network Classic at the Walt Disney World Resort tournament in Florida to retain his playing card on the US PGA Tour in 2011. The Las Vegas tournament was Percy's best finish for the year but a win would have secured his future as the winner receives a two exemption on the Tour and invitations to many other events on Tours around the world. Adding to the excitement of the day was having his mother Sandra in the gallery. It was her first ever trip to the US to see Cameron and his wife Katie and her grandsons Liam 4 and Ashton 2 who live in Raleigh North Carolina. Cameron played only tennis during his time in Mildura from 1981 to 1988. His father Ross won the Coomealla golf club championship during this time and was an excellent contributor in Sunraysia's Country Week team. It was two years later before he took up golf whilst living in Warragul. He then moved down to Melbourne in 1993 as a 19 year old and joined Southern Golf Club. At Southern he played division one pennant against Aaron Baddeley, Marcus Fraser and Geoff Ogilvy whom he defeated five and four in the Victorian Amateur Championship in 1996. Cameron turned professional and enjoyed moderate success winning the Victorian PGA Championship at Sanctuary Lakes and three Von Nida secondary tour events. Last year he gained prominence after being paired with Tiger Woods in the Australian Masters at Kingston Heath. He gained so much from that experience of playing with the world number one. Afterwards Cameron said he was amazed at the control that Woods showed during that round (Woods won the tournament). Woods and his caddy Steve Williams had prior knowledge of where the pins would be on the greens the following day and planned exactly what club to use off the tee and where to hit the ball to open up the best angle to attack each pin placement. As they walked the course and spoke between shots, Woods showed interest in Australian Rules and marvelled at the athleticism of the players and their courage in not wearing protective guards. He couldn't come to terms however, of how it took five days to get a result that quite often is a draw in "our" game of cricket. At one stage after that event when the Woods scandal erupted it appeared as though Percy may have been the last person to play with him, until Woods made his much awaited comeback in May. Percy got his big break last year after finishing high up in the rankings on the US secondary Nationwide Tour to qualify for the PGA Tour. This year has been a dream come true, next week could decide whether he keeps the dream alive.
PETER COX COMES HOME
When local sporting personalities who have gone on to become leading players at state and national level are mentioned some who have made good are missed. Peter Cox is one such man. Peter left his home in Red Cliffs in 1971 to pursue his dream of playing cricket at the top level. His record of twelve games for Victoria, 307 district matches, two premierships at St Kilda (the second as Captain) surely makes him Sunraysia greatest ever cricketer. Along the way he played with some of the greats including West Indians Rohan Kanhi and Garfield Sobers at North Melbourne. At St Kilda he played with Shaun Graf and with Alan Connolly and Paul Sheahan for Victoria. Coxy's best score for Victoria was 79 not out against South Australia in Adelaide. His sporting addiction these days is golf after he moved into his new home at Torquay Sands at Torquay. I caught up with him at Torquay Sands last week when we both played in the Victorian Seniors Championship. We both had big scores which is great in cricket but unfortunately not so good in golf. It will be great to catch up with him for a game of golf today on my home course at Coomealla. Peter and I opened the bowling for Mildura Tech School in 1968 but that's another sad story, but not for him. Peter Cox went on to be one of Sunraysia's best ever sportsmen, hopefully he will get that recognition, if and when a Sunraysia sporting legends hall of fame is created.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The best score on the district golf courses this week was by Karen Flight who blitzed in the Rivertown's classic but to be eligible for the Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week you must be local. As such from the locals Graeme Hall at seven up and Graeme Millington 44 points at Mildura golf Club Resort and David J Tierney at Coomealla. John Keogh looked like being in the running after a fine 66 net at Coomealla on Saturday in the Monthly Medal (this followed on from his 50-33-83 at Torquay Sands on Wednesday) but Neil Bryant is this week's Sunraysia Golf Range one dozen Srixon AD333 winner after 45 points at the NSW layout last Wednesday. Neil must call into the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday to pick up his Srixons.
Contact me with any golf information or your opinion on Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

20/10/10

Thomas WINS 2010 RIVERSIDE CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
Chris Thomas is the 2010 Riverside golf club champion after rounds of
72-73-72-79-296. To average 74 over four rounds under championship
conditions is an excellent performance. Thomas has now set his sights on
making the Sunraysia Country Week team next year. Yesterday he was still on
cloud nine when he said "To win this championship has been my goal for the
last three years. This year I thought that if I didn't win it, I never
would. Although it has been a long time coming I have been very focussed
and worked really hard to achieve my goal". On Saturday Thomas shot 72
which included four birdies, four bogeys and only 24 putts. "I virtually
got every putt I looked at" he said. "On Sunday I suppose I just coasted as
I had a thirteen stroke lead over Troy Germaine". Germaine was runner up
and although he fell away in the last two rounds, it is something he can
build on in 2011. Just as Thomas did this year. Riverside are rebuilding
in lots of areas and their A grade pennant team only needs one or two more
players and they should be right in the mix in 2011. Long time Riverside
stalwart Michael Holcroft won B grade averaging 83 over four rounds.
COOMEALLA GOLF CLUB'S STABLEFORD SHOOT OUT
Coomealla golf club are taking entries from their members for the annual
summer stableford shoot out. The cost of entry this year is only $20 which
all goes back into the prize pool. There are two sections for men and
ladies. From the entries received the best 19 individual stableford scores
until the end of February qualify for the final. Basically you only have to
have one really good round in five months to get into the final. The final
is great theatre as 19 players hit off, one after another and one player
drops out after each hole until there are only two players on the 18th. In
the men's section the winners over the last four years have been Steven
Spooner, Shane Doherty and Peter Dooley the last two years over Paul Wright
on both occasions. Phone the club on 50 274658 for more information.
RIVERTOWN'S CLASSIC
The Annual Rivertown's Classic is on Friday at Loxton golf club, Saturday's
leg is at Wentworth and Sunday the event culminates at Mildura Golf Club
Resort. The tournament is open to both men and ladies and is always a
popular event. Contact Mildura Golf Club Resort for more information.
THE MATCH
If you keep your ear to the ground around golf clubs you can hear lots of
stories about gambling on the golf course. Big money has been known to
exchange hands at different clubs over the years. Most players play for a
couple of dollars or a tattslotto ticket each Saturday and some handle the
pressure of winning or losing a few sheckels better than others. One of the
most famous big betting games occurred on January 10 1956 at the Cypress
Point golf club next door to Pebble Beach. Eddie Lowery who was a wealthy
car dealer boasted that he had two young amateur golfers in Ken Venturi and
Harvie Ward who could beat any two other golfers in the world, bar none.
One of Lowery's betting pals was millionaire George Coleman who took up the
boast and said he would match any bet that Lowery wanted with his two
players. The match was organised for the following day and who should
Coleman turn up with? None other than Ben Hogan and Byron Nelson who were
as good a pair of golf professionals you could find. The bet was said to be
in the vicinity of $50,000 whilst Hogan and Nelson bet the two amateurs $100
the front nine, $100 the back nine and $100 overall.. What happened after
that is the subject of a great book that is simply titled The Match by Mark
Frost. Frost also wrote the Greatest Game Ever Played and his ability to
capture the electric atmosphere that must have existed and his brilliant
portrayal of the event is exceptional. Any golfer worth his salt wouldn't
be able to put this book down. I recommend it as an excellent read.
WORLD RANKINGS
Men - 1 Tiger Woods (until Oct 31) 2 Phil Mickelson, 3 Lee Westwood, 4
Steve Stricker, 5 Martin Kaymer.
Women - 1 Ai Miyazato, 2 Ji-Yai Shin, 3 Christie Kerr, 4 Yani Tseng, 5
Suzann Pettersen.
Australian Top 5 in World - Robert Allenby (21), Geoff Ogilvy (28), Adam
Scott (36), Jason Day (41), Michael Sim (63).
Australian Women -- Karrie Webb (12), Katherine Hull (22), Nikki
Campbell (41), Lindsey Wright (45), Tamie Durdin (98).
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Choosing the Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week was a tough task this
week as there was no real stand out round. Tim Plumridge at Wentworth,
Michael Holcroft and David Whitelegg at Riverside, Colin Garraway and David
Gardiner at Coomealla all bettered their handicaps by six shots. At Merbein
Ken Matulick was seven better as was the Red Cliffs pair of Graham Tiller
and Rohan Hillier, all great efforts but hard to separate one from another.
So this week's Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week goes to Chris Thomas
for a great round of 72 off the stick on Saturday when some people thought
he might feel the pressure. He didn't and that was good enough to secure
him twelve Srixon AD333 golf balls that must be collected by Friday.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email
golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

13/10/10

THMOAS LEADS 2010 RIVERSIDE CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
Chris Thomas jumped out of the blocks on Saturday at Riverside to par the course in the the first round of the 2010 club championship. Thomas is a newcomer to the top echelon of A grade golfers in the district but his performances at the weekend will have the district Country Week team selectors taking notice. On Saturday his round included three birdies, three bogies and twelve pars. On Sunday he had four birdies, five bogies and eleven pars for 36 hole total of 145. Yesterday Thomas said "I really enjoyed playing A grade pennant this year, even though I didn't win a game. When pennant finished I had a break from tournament golf for a while and just concentrated on hitting the ball. Since coming back my game has really improved, over the last three weeks my handicap had dropped from 6 to 3". With 36 holes to go this weekend a five shot advantage is not as big as it sounds and Troy Germane is hot on Thomas's tail. Germane has been posting good scores for several years without breaking through. Earlier in the year he lost a playoff for the Riverside Open and this championship is certainly within his reach after scores of 77-73. 2009 champion Joe Violi is on shot further back after scores of 74-77. Last year Riverside didn't seed their top four players for the last round but this year it is a condition of the championship which really puts the pressure on the top contenders. Riverside is going from strength to strength with 111 players in the field last Wednesday, many from other district clubs. The word is getting around that the preferred lies rule has been lifted due to the considerable improvement in the fairways and that all 18 greens are back in play. Riverside is known as the "picturesque" golf course and it is great news that the club is getting back to it's best, both on and off the course.
2010 VETERANS CLASSIC AT MILDURA GOLF CLUB RESORT
Mildura Golf Club Resort will host a 2010 Veterans Golf Classic tomorrow and Friday as part of the state-wide 2010 Victorian Seniors Festival. Eleven other golf clubs across the State will host similar events which is open to club golfers of 55 or more. Tomorrow the event is a medley stableford and Friday is a 4BBB medley stableford, a shot gun start at 12-30 will be implemented each day. Entry is $20 per player each day and includes a light lunch from 11-30, golf ball and some fantastic trophies for the winners. Entries can be phoned through to the pro shop.
ALF SYLVIA - MERBEIN LEGEND
It is with heavy heart that I report that Alf Sylvia passed away last week. Quite simply, Alf was a Merbein legend. Insert football, cricket, golf or indeed just Merbein in front of legend and that was Alf. He was inducted as a life member to almost every sporting organization he belonged to and quite deservedly so. But, it was golf that I came to know him through, even though the name Alf Sylvia was known to most people who followed sport in Sunraysia over the last fifty years. Alf was captain at Merbein golf club for twelve years. Through this period it is certain that if it wasn't for Alf, Merbein golf club would never have attracted as many of the best golfers in the district as it did to it's open tournaments. We went, not only to support Merbein golf club, but to be present for Alf's presentation at the completion of each day. In golf many players live and die on their scores, subsequently, many of them stay or go after playing depending on how they had played. At Merbein however, almost everyone stayed on to witness and enjoy Alf Sylvia at his best. There was no pomp and ceremony with Alf, he always drew everyone's attention with a commanding "Ok let's get on with it" and you could hear a pin drop. That is of course until, he dropped one of his clangers, which would have everyone in stitches, just waiting for the next one liner to pop out. Alf Sylvia was a terrific administrator, not because he was an extraordinarily clever fellow but because he was a peoples person and others wanted to follow him, help him and be a part of what he was doing. In a world where sometimes over officious and ego minded types tend to take up positions of responsibility, Alf was the complete opposite. What you saw was what you got and that never changed. I have two friends, one who used to say that when he was feeling down he would like to go home and watch reruns of the TV show Alf that always made him feel better and similarly another who every Friday would go out to Merbein and have a beer with Alf Sylvia because an hour with Alf was truly an hour well spent. It was his favourite hour of the week. On Monday at Alfs funeral it was like a who's who of Merbein sport over the last fifty years, they were all there because more than anything else they had the one thing in mind that Alf was known for over the years, respect.
KATHERINE HULL WINS NAVISTAR CLASSIC IN US
Queensland's Katherine Hull won the Navistar Championship in the US on Sunday winning $195,000 which took he winnings this year to $674-500 and 13th on the US money list. Hull hasn't won on the US LPGA Tour since she won the Canadian Open in 2008 but her 19 under par total gave her a one shot victory. Hull looked like being the girl most likely to take over from Karrie Webb as our best female golfer but until the weekend that hasn't eventuated. Webb has also come to a bit of a standstill over the last twelve months after returning to top form last year, she finished the tournament in 30th position at -7. Australian Lindsey Wright was another Aussie to briefly shine last week when she shot a course record 63 and finished 5th at -16. There are seven events still to go this year on the LPGA Tour and any one of four ladies can finish the year as world number one. With the retirements of Annika Sorentam and Mexico's Lorena Ochoa, Japan's Ai Miyazato is currently on top from Korea's Jiyai Shin with American Christie Kerr in third place.
WESTWOOD ON TOP OF THE WORLD
England's Lee Westwood will pass Tiger Woods and become the number one ranked player in the world on October 31. Woods has been number one for 279 weeks since 2005. Both players along with Phil Mickelson and Germany's Martin Kaymer are all expected to play in the HSBC Championship in Shanhai on Nov 4 and any one of the four players could still finish the year in the top spot. Martin Kaymer who won the US PGA tournament in August pulled off another win at the weekend in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. This tournament is played over three different links courses in Scotland including Kingsbarns, Carnoustie and St Andrews and is played as a pro am similar to the Pebble Beach pro am in the US. The Race To Dubai is the European Tour's equivalent to the FedEX Cup in America with the top 115 players being whittled down to the winner in the last tournament of the year in Dubai. The Dubai World Championship will be played from November 25-28. The leaders with seven events still to be played are Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell, Lee Westwood, Ernie Els, Charl Schwartzel and Louis Oosthuizen in sixth place. This week the Portugal Masters will be contested in Valencia Spain.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
You needed to have a great score to be in the running for the Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week. On Sunday Gannon Bettes had nett 65 at Riverside as did Larry Cavallaro with Rob Arnold recording 46 points on Wednesday but still coming in second on the day. At Coomealla on Sunday Alan McKaskill had a whopping 46 points. Graham (Tubby) McLellan had the stewards running everywhere after he recorded his best ever score in Sunraysia, breaking 80 for the first time in memory and shooting a one under par 71 on Saturday for 45 points. Unfortunately for Graham, Tim Bell came in with 47 points at Riverside last Wednesday to win one dozen Srixon golf balls which must be collected by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range 347 Ontario Avenue Mildura.
Contact me with any golf information or news on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

5/10/10

McRAE AND ORR LEAD WGV SPRING TOURNAMENT
Cohuna's Elissa Orr and Horsham's Jenny Mcrae are equal leaders on 75 after the first round of the Women's Golf Victoria Spring Tournament at Coomealla yesterday. It is no surprise that Orr who is a State player, is in front as she was the pre post favourite for the tournament. Horham's Jenny McRae who plays off a handicap of six was the surprise packet and it will be interesting to see if she can back it up with another good performance at Mildura Golf Club Resort today. In third place is Cohuna's Sienna Lambert who won the WGV's Autumn Tournament at Flinders Golf Club. In winning Lambert shot 80 in the first round but came home with a new course record of 70 in the second round. She will need to repeat the performance today to overtake the leaders. Lambert is studying at college in Bendigo this year and is tossing up whether to go to the US next year and play college golf or take up a traineeship in Melbourne as a golf professional. In equal fourth place on 80 are Sandy Stewart from Portland and Kacey Haywood from Rich River. Local champion Michelle Philp (Fumberger) had a bad day with the putter for an 82. At her very best seven shots would not be out of her reach but it may be just too much ground to make up these days. This tournament along with the Coomealla Seniors Championship, Golf Week and the Tri-State Masters is evidence that we can attract golfers from all over Victoria and Australia to come to Mildura. Hopefully a commitment for funding to promote our region as a golfing destination will come to fruition in the near future.
SUNRAYSIA'S BEST EVER COUNTRY WEEK
Sunraysia District Golf Association stamped itself as the number three golf association in Victoria after an excellent performance by its young team finishing third last week in Melbourne at Country Week. There are sixteen golf associations in the State and Sunraysia is the furtherest and smallest in number of any of them. After the first four rounds last week they were coming second and only the barest percentage off being on top of the ladder. Wins against Geelong, Corangamite and East Gippsland and an unlucky half against Goulburn Valley had exceeded earlier expectations. Jake Laubsch at number two played brilliantly to beat 2010 Murray Valley Open champion Luke Allen and Goulburn Valley's Terry Vogels. Vogels is a senior State representative and is the Goulburn Valley's version of Greg Rhodes as he has been a legend in that region for fifteen years. Laubsch has really come of age in the last three months and has stamped himself as Sunraysia's undisputed number one player in 2010. Cameron Stewart playing at seven was undefeated and was duly awarded the Brendan O'Brien player of the series award. Ashley Whitehouse was also rock solid at number five winning four matches. Andy Stewart who was overlooked twice, only coming into the team after two late withdrawals by Greg Rhodes and Sean Baumgurtel, won three and a half matches in a determined display of gutsy golf. Tim Walker was another who played really well at number four and then three. The three juniors including Laubsch, Walker and Ryan Laird all played extremely well and played a major role in the teams success. Every player recorded at least one win which doesn't happened very often at Country Week for the Sunraysia team. In the last contest on Friday Ballarat were too strong, Sunraysia went down seven and a half to one and a half with Justin McPhee and the two Stewarts all halving their matches. Playing a maximum 126 holes in five days with no reserves to alternate left our blokes very tired by Friday and it showed. This year though, Sunraysia, probably, for the first time ever can feel that we are now a recognised first division team. Not just a team that gets in, goes out and maybe gets back in every now and then. To take the next step we have to become more professional about winning the division. Sunraysia had the least resources out of all the division one teams. Least players, least caddies, least team officials and least sponsorship. To go so close with barest of minimums must surely indicate that if we increase the input it must assist in accelerating the output which was so close this year. Hopefully players such as Matt Lynch, Andrew Thomas, Rick McMeekin. Steve Wilmann and several others will put their hands up for selection. Congratulations go to Sunraysia's most successful ever Captain Justin McPhee and his team who have now put Sunraysia golf right at the very top of country golf.
That team was Justin McPhee, Ashley Whitehouse, Cameron and Andrew Stewart, Jake Laubsch, Tim Walker, Ryan Laird, Jake Slimmon and Leigh Fuller with Trevor Carroll and Neville Walker as the team officials.
EUROPE WINS GOLF'S GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH
Most people were caught up in the emotion of the AFL grand final over the past week, I was too, to a certain extent. Congratulations to Collingwood and their supporters, see you again in twenty years time. On the world golfing stage however, the world looked on as the greatest show on earth, in golfing terms, took place in Wales. The 39th edition of the Ryder Cup between Europe and the United States of America was surely the best ever golf tournament there has ever been. It had everything including horrendous weather conditions, the best players in the world playing for their countries, golfing skill at it's finest, a magnificent golfing venue and the greatest single component that makes any sporting event stand out, passion and plenty of it. The weather over the first couple of days was catastrophic causing the tournament to go into a fourth day for the first time ever in it's history. One hundred and ten green staff worked furiously through the days and nights to clean up after more than 50mm of rain fell in three days. Taking an extra day took the excitement and expectation to another level and only added to the whole spectacle. The US led after the opening matches but by the end of day three (Monday morning our time) Europe had stormed to the front winning five and a half matches out of the last six contests. The first sixteen matches are played by two man teams against each other and Europe led nine and a half to six and a half points. Europe needed only to win five singles matches out of twelve to win the Cup back from America who had won on home soil in Kentucky in 2008. It looked, on paper a forgone conclusion but nothing would be further from the truth. With no direct television coverage due to that channel covering the Commonwealth Games, how was I going to follow the last day, one that I had been looking forward to for two years? As ridiculous as it sounds, live radio coverage on the internet had me staring into the computer screen and listening to the description of the various matches. Europe only got home by the barest of margins when this year's US Open champion Graeme McDowell from Ireland won his match at the 17th. If McDowell had only have halved his match it would have been a 14 all draw and the US would have retained the Cup. There was so much to appreciate and enjoy about this great tournament but to put it into perspective, European Captain Colin Montgomerie who has won more tournaments than any other European said " It was the greatest moment of my career". The 40th Ryder Cup will be played in 2012 at Medinah Golf Club in Chicago and then at Gleneagles in Scotland in 2014.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This week there were at least seven players who would have been deserved winners of the Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week. Six players bettered their handicaps by seven shots including Keith Plain at Wentworth, Mick Miller and Chris Thomas at Riverside, John Fricke at Coomealla, Chris Healy at Red Cliffs and Bill Klaric at Mildura Golf Club Resort. At Coomealla the star performer of the week was Marj Williams who outplayed everyone to record plus 8. Marj wins one dozen Srixon Soft Feel golf balls which must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

29/9/10

SUNRAYSIA PLAYERS STRUGGLE IN COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIP
Sunraysia's elite golfers struggled in the first round of the 2010 Country Championship where 100 players off 5 handicaps or lower played at Croydon golf club on Monday. Coomealla's Jake Laubsch was the only local player to break 80 recording a respectable 78 but was 10 shots behind the championship leader at the halfway mark. Laubsch is in good form after beating all of the States top juniors over 36 holes last week in Melbourne. Leigh Fuller and Andrew Stewart returned 80's which is not far off their best and Ryan Laird had 81. Yesterday the second round was played at Amstel golf club and district officials were hoping for improved performances from Cameron Stewart, Justin McPhee, Tim Walker and Jacob Slimmon. Ashley Whitehouse was rested as he had just returned from overseas. Historically Sunraysia players have struggled in this event, which, in reality is the secondary target this week. That said though, players such as Jacob Slimmon and Tim Walker would need to recover form quickly as 87's and 85's on Monday wouldn't give them a lot of confidence going into the matchplay contests today against top quality opposition. This morning Sunraysia plays Geelong at Victoria and the Goulburn Valley this afternoon. Geelong only had a handful of players contest the Country Championship but they are usually very strong. The Goulburn Valley are equal favourites with Ballarat and will be tough opposition after five of their players excelled in the Country Championship. Tomorrow Sunraysia meets Corangamite and East Gippsland at Keysborough, both of these contests are winnable going by the results from their players on Monday. Ballarat who had six players in the first dozen on Monday will be our last match on Friday at Royal Melbourne. Ballarat are a classy combination and should finish top of the table.
WOMEN'S GOLF VICTORIA SPRING TOURNAMENT
Mildura Golf Club Resort and Coomealla will host the Women's Golf Victoria Spring Tournament next Tuesday and Wednesday. Three hundred ladies will contest the annual event which was last held in Sunraysia in 2004 at Red Cliffs and Riverside. Favourite for the tournament is Cohuna's Elissa Orr who plays off a scratch handicap and is coached by Barham golf professional Rob M'Naghten. Orr represented Victoria recently in the Interstate Series where Victoria drew with Queensland as the top State in ladies golf. Sienna Lambert from Cohuna is another McNaughton prot?g? who is taking a year off studies after completing her VCE last year to concentrate on golf. Mary Ann Davis from Murray Downs won the Victorian Sandscrape Championship at Avenel last month and is another from the McNaughton stable. The tournament was conducted at Portland last year with Debbie Driscoll being declared champion. Driscoll will defend her title next week. Twenty five local representatives will be led by Michelle Phelp (Fumberger) and Sue Laird. Phelp would be a chance if she played at her best as she is by far and away Sunraysia's greatest ever female golfer. Some believe she is the best ever in either gender. Once again this event provides an excellent opportunity to showcase our best courses and give all the visiting golfers lasting memories to go away and advertise Sunraysia to their clubmates and friends as an ideal golfing destination.
MEMORIES OF NEW ZEALAND
Last week's 19th hole came from New Zealand, on that day we played at the Kinloch golf club just out of Taupo. This golf course was one of the very best that I have ever played. Most Jack Nicklaus courses have lots of water but Kinloch is a links style golf course that has elevated views and water is on only four holes. Everyone on the tour was blown away with the course which was a privilege to play. I can't wait to go back on our next golf tour there in March 2012. At Kinloch I had a chance meeting with Barry Vivian who was the inaugural Australian Masters champion in 1979 at Huntingdale. We invited Barry who lives in Taupo to play in the Riverside Senior Golf Professional Championship in 2002, which he duly won. As a result of that invitation he went on to win eight events and finished second twice in eleven events. Since then he finished second at Royal County Down in Ireland in the British Seniors Open Championship but poor health has limited his golf in recent years. On all of our golf tours we play a stableford in the six rounds of golf. All players are grouped into teams which creates a lot of fun after each game as team members urge each other on. It is all in good fun though as it is essentially social golf. Naturally though, there are some players who excell and they are recognised for their efforts. Ken and Marg Ellery from the Riverside golf club in Mildura have been on eight golf tours with us including four to New Zealand. We decided in 2004 to name the trophy for the "champion" golfer on each tour in their honour. This year's winner of the Ellery Award was Ted Muncton from Bermagui. The group on this tour was exceptional and everyone to a man and woman had a great time with one another. Our motto is that "it is always nice to meet nice people and that memories live longer than dreams". We have now completed 15 golf tours since 1993 and next year are planning golf tours to the Mornington Peninsula in January/February, Tasmania in March/April and Scotland/ Ireland in September. Contact Kym Doherty on 0408310532 for further information.
PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP AT EASTLAKE
Bobby Jones is remembered in golf as the greatest amateur golfer of all time, some suggest the greatest golfer of all time. He won the original "Grand Slam" of golf, winning the US and British Open's and the US and British amateur titles, all in the same year. Having done this in 1930 he promptly retired from competitive golf to practise as a lawyer. He was without doubt the quintessential amateur who argued at the time that he played for the love of the game, whereas professionals played, not for the love of the game but for the money. On Sunday at Jones home club of Eastlake in Boston, Jim Furyk won $11.350,000 in winning the Players Championship and finishing first in the year long FedEx Cup. This at a time when the United States has been crippled with all sorts of financial problems. Bobby Jones must be turning in his grave. If you are interested in the life of Bobby Jones, a video movie called "A Stroke of Genius" is a terrific portrayal of his life.
RYDER CUP IN WALES
This weekend will be wonderful for golf and football tragic's alike. The 39th Ryder Cup between Europe and the United States will be contested at Celtic Manor Golf Club in Newport Wales. This event is played every two years with the US holding a 27/11 win loss record so far since 1927. Twelve players go head to head in singles matchplay on Sunday after 4BBB foursomes and two man foursomes matchplay contests between ten players from each team on Friday and Saturday. In 2008 the Americans started the underdogs in Kentucky after having won only once in the previous six contests. That the US won 16.5 - 11.5 really stirs the pot for this weekends clash. The European team is made up four Englishmen, three from Ireland, two Italians (Molinari brothers) and one player from Sweden, Spain and Germany. Colin Montgomerie is the non playing European Captain and former US Open winner Corey Pavin is in charge of the Americans. This year for the first time in his career Tiger Woods hasn't won an event and his place in the team was not assured. This places even more attention on him this weekend. His record in team type golf events isn't as good as his individual strokeplay record. It will be interesting viewing seeing how he performs as there is more pressure on him to win than any other player. Interestingly there has only been six holes in one in Ryder Cup history with two being recorded in 2006 including Scott Verplank who is the only American acer.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Scores were much hotter than the weather on Sunraysia's golf courses this week including five scores of 44 points. In no particular order they came from Riverside's Mick Miller, Brett Harvey and Peter Holland and Mildura's Jean Moore and the talking "Magpie" Ernie Sporn. Out at Red Cliffs Linda Hickey went berserk with a terrific score of +10. Linda wins one dozen Srixon Soft Feel golf balls which she must collect by this Friday as the winner of the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

22/9/10

SUNRAYSIA ALL SET FOR COUNTRY WEEK
Sunraysia is all set for Melbourne Country Week which begins in Melbourne on Monday. This year we will again be contesting division one which hosts all of the bigger and nearer to Melbourne golf associations. Many of the players our boys will be competing against live in Melbourne and play metropolitan pennant for the biggest city clubs. To enable them to still play Country Week they use their country address which cuts out that loop hole. That is the disadvantage we always face but it has been that way for at least twenty years. This year Sunraysia is only taking nine players, which some feel this is a mistake because there is no provision for sickness, injury or loss of form. Nine players play in each match. The team is made up of three groups . The experienced group is headed by team captain Justin McPhee who has been excellent both as a team representative and leader. Ashley Whitehouse has also been an institution in the team for more than fifteen years and has an excellent win loss ratio. He has played an important role within the team as the team jokester. This aspect can never be under estimated as the team spirit and camaraderie that is built up can play an important role when the matches get tight at the end of the week and team mates lend their physical and vocal support of one another. The second tier of players is made up of Jacob Slimmon who came of age as a top line player this year. He really needs to play well next week as he will probably have to move up one place in the order. Cameron and Andy Stewart are also in this group but both are very experienced Country Week performers and know exactly what is required to win. Leigh Fuller is another dogged competitor who can be relied on for a one hundred per cent effort. The third and most important group are the new juniors. Jake Laubsch, Tim Walker and Ryan Laird take with them the exuberance; enthusiasm and fearless approach than can definitely have a positive effect on the rest of the team. Laubsch is an exceptional talent who can beat anyone when he is in the ?zone?. Walker and Laird have played colts pennant in Melbourne this year giving them a great lead up for the conditions they face for the first time as senior Sunraysia representatives. There is a distinct difference in the conditions that the team will face next week compared with playing each other on our local courses. We rarely play in wet and windy conditions in Sunraysia. Let?s face it, when it rains most people pull out because why play in the rain when it occurs so infrequently? Most of the courses next week will have slopes and dips where side hill, uphill and downhill lies will need to be overcome. Every year when the post mortem takes place, it is the difference in short game abilities where our team falls down. In golf unlike football, for instance where the surface and ground size are fairly uniform, Melbourne golf courses present so many differences to local courses. At the end of the day however, the bottom line is that mental attitude will usually reign supreme over ability. In matchplay a match can turn so quickly with the impact of just one shot. It is important that not only does our team perform well but at the minimum, stay in division one. This year there is an air of confidence that we have the team to achieve that. The first two days are taken up with the Country Championship which is a 36 hole stroke event played at Patterson River and Ranfurly. The matchplay against the other associations begins on Wednesday and will be played at Victoria, Keysborough and Royal Melbourne.
NEW ZEALAND - GOLF IN WONDERLAND
This edition of the 19th hole comes to you from New Zealand. My wife Kym and I are hosting our sixth New Zealand golf tour, the first of which was in 1994. Thirty people from thirteen golf clubs including Bermagui, Traralgon, The Dunes, Midlands (Ballarat), Rosebud Country Club, Mansfield, Waikerie, Torquay, Melville Glades (Perth WA) Robinvale, Red Cliffs, Mildura Golf Club Resort and Coomealla are on tour this year. We first touched down in the city of tremors - Christchurch, where the tremors continued but no one in our group even heard or felt them. From what we could observe Christchurch was fine, people were just getting on with things and nothing seemed any different on the surface. Our first game was at Terrace Downs in cold windy conditions. This course has some exquisite views that are quite breathtaking. The following day we boarded the Trans Alpine Rail for a journey through the alps up to Blenheim. The views were a delight and the train trip provided an opportunity for everyone to get to know one another. In Marlborough we visited the Moa Brewery which was popular with the men folk (except when we had to leave) and also several wineries. The Marlborough sauvignon blanc?s are world renowned and our wine tasting at the Cloudy Bay Winery was very well received by all in attendance. The next stanza in the story saw us back on the coach and off to Picton where we boarded the Interislander ferry and sailed over to Wellington. Our first game on the North Island was at the world renowned Paraparaumu Beach Links course where Peter Thomson first came to prominence winning the New Zealand Open. I had been looking forward to playing this course for ten years and it was all I had hoped it to be and then some. Unfortunately the weather turned sour mid round so most people only played 12 or 13 holes but all agreed what a great golf course it was. On Saturday we headed up to Taupo and everyone enjoyed the landscape where mountains become ho hum as it seems if you are not going up a mountain you are coming down one. It is such a spectacular place to travel around. On Sunday we journeyed over to Hawke?s Bay to play at Cape Kidnappers golf resort. This has to be the most spectaclular golf course in the world or any other big place. Hundreds of feet above the ocean with deep gully?s and gorges, bridges than connect one fairway to another. It really was an amazing place to visit and play. Quite simply the only way to describe the whole event on Sunday is to say it really was such an ?experience?. On Monday we played at Wairekei International golf club in Taupo which is rated the number one course in New Zealand. Wairekei had just hosted a 72 hole professional event that finished on Sunday so the golf course was immaculate. The course was unanimously voted the most popular so far (except for the writer who loved Paraparaumu) with the beautiful flowering trees. The huge rhododendron trees were enormous and in full bloom as were many gorgeous flame trees that gave the golf course a sea of different colours. It was easy to see why so many golfers from all over the world come to New Zealand simply to play at Wairekei. Yesterday we boarded a Taupo boat cruiser to wine and dine on the biggest lake in the Australasia. Lake Taupo covers a 615 Sqkm area and is 40 klm long and 30 klm wide with an average depth of 105 metres with the deepest spot being 168 metres deep. After lunch all of our guests were invited to ?drop a line? in and some lovely trout finished up on our dinner table last night. Today we are playing at the Kinloch club which was designed by Jack Nicklaus and is fast catching Wairekei as the top rated course in New Zealand after only two years since opening. Tomorrow we head up to Auckland stopping off at Hamilton and Rotorua. A highlight along the way is sure to be our visit to the Agradome where 19 breeds of sheep are displayed in a circus like show. Afterwards the working sheep farm hands put on a display with the sheep dogs mustering the sheep. Having seen it on several previous tours, it is certain to be a popular stop off. On Thursday night we will be dining in the Sky City Casino Revolving Tower restaurant and taking in the beautiful Auckland skyline complete with all the cascading lights around the city. On Friday we will be playing at Gulf Harbour which has hosted several recent New Zealand Opens. This is another New Zealand ?gem? of a golf course that we have played on our last two tours to New Zealand. Friday night our presentation dinner will be held at the palatial Stamford Plaza Hotel where trophies will be awarded for the six games of golf and other ?awards?. On Saturday we will be winging our way home in time to see the mighty Saints take out their second flag.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
It was hard to pick a standout round as there were many great scores around the district over the last week. At Coomealla Pam Rogers was best with 42 points on Wednesday, Gavin Hocking with 43 points on Wednesday was the best at Merbein. Raelene Curry?s 67 net on Saturday was the best at Wentworth and Glen Goodall?s +7 on Sunday was the best at Red Cliffs. Andrew Hill was very close with his 44 points at Riverside on Wednesday but the round of the week goes to Barney Hubble for his 44 points at Mildura on Sunday. You can pick up one dozen Srixon distance golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.

15/9/10

BULLAS TOO GOOD AT COOMEALLA
Commonwealth's Allan "Bullant" Bullas is the 2010 Coomealla Seniors champion. Bullas won with rounds of 77-77-74 following on in the footsteps of Cobram Barooga's Ross Percy 2007, Buninyong's Chris Tatt in 2008 and Goonawarra's Pat Giles who was the champion in 2009. Bullas turned 55 last year and promptly won Commonwealth's club championship for the 15th time. This year he had to really work hard to win the Coomealla title as he was five shots behind after day one but hit the equal lead after 36 holes with Ross Percy. The pair remained tied after 45 holes with Churchill Park's Ray Walker making up three strokes to be only one shot behind. Disaster struck Walker at the next hole when he took triple bogey and then Percy tripled the 16th. Bullas who had turned two over par after nine holes, crafted around the back nine in even par to win from Walker and Percy by five shots. Bullas has established himself as one of the top three seniors in Victorian golf in only twelve months. Percy is recognised as the number one player, Yarra Yarra's Michael Jackson is not far behind as the second top seed. Bullas has won several titles this year including Peninsula last month. Coomealla members had success with Stan Prymke winning B grade (handicap 8-12) with 249 and Vince Dichiera walking in C grade (13-36) with 245. The field for the championship was down this year with only 77 men, including only three men form other local district golf clubs. Twenty four Coomealla members supported the event but the response from other local clubs was disappointing, it is difficult attracting golfers to our region and maintaining strong sponsorship. Seniors (over 55) golf is becoming more popular each year throughout the State with 28 events listed around Victoria in 2010. The Victorian Seniors Championship in three grades is on at Torquay Sands golf club from October 18-20 with entries closing on October 1. It is hoped that a strong contingent of Sunraysia's senior golfers enter the State championship this year.
ROBINVALE FESTIVAL OF GOLF
The 2010 Robinvale Festival of Golf will be conducted September 25 - October 1st this year and the club is hoping to attract strong support from Sunraysia golfers this year. The Robinvale Festival of Golf has attracted hundreds of golfers from other regions over the years. Gratton Wood has taken over the reigns in running the event this year on one of our very best golf courses. The tournament is open to both men and ladies and there is a variety of events to cater for singles and mixed golf.
NEW GOLF CLUB IN SUNRAYSIA
The House of Golf Club is Sunraysia's newest golf club and it's fastest growing. Almost 600 local people have signed up to become members in only two months and that number is expect to reach 1000 by Christmas. House of Golf proprietor Garth Doherty launched the club with the aim of introducing new people to the sport of golf in a social easy going atmosphere. After building the Sunraysia Golf Range four years ago he has seen more than 5000 people use the facility, many of whom are trying golf for the first time. Yesterday he explained the concept of social club golf "The social golf club idea has been in the back of my mind ever since we opened the range. After working at the Sunraysia Golf Factory for ten years and being involved in the Golf Factory Club then the Sunraysia Golf Club social golf clubs and seeing how successful they were, we though it was time to start up a social golf club". Many people feel too intimidated to join a district golf club but after playing in organised social golf days and learning the etiquette and basic rules of the game, their self confidence increases and they are off and running. Nearly everyone who takes up golf feels a bit awkward about their skill level to begin with but it is amazing how that awkwardness disappears once they have hit a couple of good shots and improved their scores. The best part of becoming a House of Golf Club member is that it is free. Social nine hole games of golf will commence on district golf courses in October on Sunday mornings followed by a BBQ lunch and a few cool drinks. There is no doubt that many of these new golfers will, when they feel comfortable enough, then join a district golf club, as already evidenced with previous social golf clubs. Contact Garth Doherty at the Sunraysia Golf Range for more information.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
There were some fantastic scores during the week, Brian Murnane with 44 points on Saturday was best at Mildura and Elaine Gray's 62 net on Wednesday was the best at the Red Cliffs. With an excellent 62 net in the Riverside Monthly medal on Saturday the winner of this weeks round of the week is Greg McCubbin. You can pick up one dozen Srixon distance golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

8/9/10

ANDREW STEWART WINS MILDURA CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
Andrew Stewart is the 2010 Mildura golf club resort champion. Stewart's win is one of the really feel good stories in local golf so far this year. On Saturday he struggled, as many others did in the howling wind that prevailed for most of the day. It was clear from the start of the day that multiple club champion Ashley Whitehouse was going to be breathing down his neck all day. Stewart's closing round of 82 does not look impressive on paper until you factor in the conditions, being the last round leader of a championship he so dearly wanted to win and the opposition. With nine holes to play Stewart looked home and hosed six shots in the lead. Fast forward to the 18th after he had dropped four more shots and believed he was only one ahead of Whitehouse. After another bogey the 18th he thought he had only tied Whitehouse who had made par, only to learn that Whitehouse was in fact two behind and he had won his first ever club championship. The final wash up saw Stewart return rounds of 74-72-76-82-304 to win by one solitary shot from Whitehouse 80-73-73-79-305, older brother Cameron Stewart 72-83-74-78-307 and Jake Laubsch 76-71-81-79-307. Only three shots between first and third indicates the pressure of the last round as all four went head to head in the howling gale. It is fair to say that Stewart's victory on Saturday night was very popular amongst Mildura's rank and file and is the culmination of a big comeback to form which has seen him included in Sunraysia's country week team. The Stewart family and many Mildura members are now waiting for brother Cameron to hoist the Stewart flag after years of knocking on the door.
JUSTIN MCPHEE STREETS AHEAD AT RED CLIFFS
Justin McPhee won his seventh Red Cliffs golf club championship on Saturday after rounds of 75-71-71-78-295. McPhee won comfortably from Darren Mannix 74-75-78-88-315 who had played excellent golf until Saturday's windy final round. Justin McPhee is now Red Cliffs golf club's most prolific winner and at only 35 years of age who knows how many more club championships he will add to his collection? Mannix could become a really good golfer as he has all the gifts, it is more a case of whether he has the time and or the inclination to open them. There was a play off in B grade between Neville Walker and former president Michael Hogan. Hogan led after the first round, dropped back by five shots in the second and was still five back going into Saturday. It all became very exciting when Hogan caught up to level the scores at days end. A playoff was called for and Neville Walker regained his composure to win. Walker has produced two exciting golfing children in Christie and Tim and has spent countless hours driving backwards and forth to Melbourne and beyond ferrying them to tournaments, so it was nice to see him being the Walker talked about on Saturday night.
NUMBER FIVE FOR MATT LYNCH AT WENTWORTH
Matt Lynch came from four shots behind to win his fifth club championship at Wentworth on Saturday after rounds of 72-73-71-73-289. With the weather conditions as they were it most definitely was the championship round of the day with Mildura, Red Cliffs and Wentworth all playing the last round of their championships. Lynch is a talented golfer but has no interest in playing in anything other than Saturday club golf. It is a bit of a pity but it is his prerogative. Thomas who had three great rounds went so close but fell at the last hurdle after 70-73-69-79-291. It is so hard to lead a championship from start to finish, especially when you haven't won one before and have a four times winner right on your tail. Thomas though, is a very good golfer and hopefully he will put his hand up next year for country week selection by playing in the district opens and district pennant.
Coomealla Senior Open
2008 Coomealla Golf Club Senior Open winner Ross Percy is the equal leader after two rounds in the 2010 Coomealla Senior Open. Percy 79-75 is the number one player on the Seniors circuit but has struggled to get motivated to play in recent months since returning from a trip overseas where he visited his son Cameron who is playing on the US PGA tour. On Monday he parred the front nine then uncharacterically shot a 43 around the back nine. This was all the motivation he needed to fire up yesterday, event hough a 75 was less than he hoped for at the start of the day. Commonwealth's Allan Bullas 77-77 is the equal leader and is sure to give Percy a run for his money. Bullas has been a great player in Victorian golf for many years and is held in the highest esteem at Commonwealth. It wouldn't surprise if it gets down to a sudden death play off in extra holes. Churchill Park's Ray Walker 79-79 is four shots behind whilst Coomealla's John Keogh 84-75 is the leading local. Other locals doing well include Coomealla's Stan Prymke and Vince Dichiera who are leading B and C grades respectively. Almost 100 men and ladies have teed it up at Coomealla in the tournament which is a great initiative of the club. Two men, Paul Fink from Hidden Valley and Robert Lee from Sandhurst golf club have played all 22 Seniors events held in Victoria this year and are planning on playing all 28 listed events. The last round concludes at Coomealla today.
Aussies So Close in the US
The final few tournaments of the year are being played in the US and Jason Day has been playing the house down. Day led in Boston at the Deutz Bank championship after three rounds and looked to be the man to beat. As often happens in US golf, a virtual second tier player called Charlie Hoffman came from the clouds in the last round and blew everyone else away. Hoffman's round of 62 was simply sensational and he has now elevated himself into USA Ryder Cup selection contention. Hoffman has a blond mullet haircut and is a real character. Other Aussies to do well were Geoff Ogilvy who finished equal second with Day, Adam Scott was fifth and John Senden eighth. On the European Tour 46 year old Spaniard Miguel Angel Jimenez won the Omega European Masters in Switzerland. Jimenez is a red head who wears a pony tail out the back of his golf cap and is not your standard everyday golf professional. Known as "the mechanic" because he always gets the job done, he is a crowd favourite everywhere he plays. Jimenez will be a vital player for European in the Ryder Cup to be played in Wales at Celtic Manor from October 1-3.
SUNRAYSIAGOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The weather over the past week didn't produce many outstanding scores, particularly on Saturday when the last round of the championships were on. Alan Scorer was the top pick at Coomealla with 41 points. Jan Boyce at Red Cliffs also had 41 as did Kay Hart and Laurie Riordan at Riverside. Keith Rogers had 42 points at Red Cliffs whilst John Trewin had 43 and Cath Kent continued her good form with 63 nett. The Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week though, goes to former Riverside club president Duncan Thompson who had a whopping 46 points. Duncan has been unwell for at least two years and is fighting his way back to good health. Lovely round Duncan well done. You can pick up one dozen Srixon distance golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

31/8/10

COOMEALLA SENIOR OPEN NEXT WEEK
The 2010 Coomealla Senior Open Championship will hit off on Monday with one of the strongest fields of the year in Victorian Seniors golf. On the latest Doug Bachli order of merit table all top ten players listed have entered at Coomealla which currently has almost 80 men's entries and 20 ladies. Cobram Barooga's Ross Percy is a past winner of the championship but has not played in Australia for a while as he has been visiting his son Cameron in America. Cameron is competing on the rich US PGA Tour. Michael Jackson from Yarra Yarra is a prolific winner of these senior events having won the Yarra Yarra Senior championship recently,he also the brother in law of Riverside golf club president Mick Burke. 1983 Murray Valley Championship winner Bob Castles from Commonwealth golf club is without doubt the most decorated golfer in the tournament this year. Castles record in Victorian golf association tournaments and pennant is legendary. In 1989 he won the prestigious Ivo Whitton trophy for the top golfer in the State with a scoring average of 71.75. The following year Robert Allenby won it with an average of 69.61 from Yarra Yarra club mate Stuart Appleby whose average was 72.03. Current professionals who have won the Ivo Whitton and then Australian Open are Allenby, Stephan Allan and Geoff Ogilvy. Castles now lives at Cobram Barooga and has entered the tournament because it is being played at Coomealla which he has great respect for as a test of golfing skill. Other top contenders this year include John Wheeler who recently won the Kingston Heath Senior Amateur and Tony Hyde who won the Victoria Senior Amateur. Entries for the 54 hole championship are still being accepted as are entries for the 36 hole ladies event. A closing presentation dinner will follow at the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club on Wednesday evening. Phone the Coomealla golf club on 50 274658 for further details.
SUNRAYSIA LADIES OVER PAR AT COUNTRY TEAMS
The North West Women's Golf team representing Sunraysia at the Melbourne Country Teams championships have bombed out in division three once again. This year it was though that with the introduction of new girl Michelle Bowditch from Renmark and the re entry to the team by Michelle Filip (nee Fumberger) that this could be our year. Bendigo dropped back from division two this year and our girls couldn't overcome them. After demolishing Kara Kara seven zip on Monday morning at Sanctuary Lakes our girls were very confident against a team that over the years has become our biggest rivals in both men's and women's Country Week. Both Filip and Sue Laird won then Bowditch fought hard only to lose at the 18th. Nycole Riordan looked in control for most of her match getting to three holes up at one stage only to lose on the 18th one down. The other three matches also finished on the fifteenth. It is clear that unless the NWWG can start promoting golf to young girls in schools and get some young players coming through the ranks then third division is where we are destined to stay. Yesterday the team played Wimmera at Northern golf club and won seven zip but Bendigo won four three so it didn't help our cause of going up to div two next year. Today we play West Gippsland at Medway golf club.
ANDREW STEWART LOOKING GOOD
Andrew Stewart took over the lead on Saturday night after round two of the 2010 Mildura Golf Club Resort club championships. Stewart trailed his brother Cameron by two strokes after round one but hit the front when he parred the course on Saturday. As expected Ashley Whitehouse recovered some form after an opening 80 to shoot 73 and junior sensation Jake Laubsch went under par with 71. What was unexpected was Cameron Stewart collapsing with an 83 following his first round of 72. Round three on Sunday threw up more intrigue when Laubsch faltered with an 81 after being only one behind overnight. Whitehouse remained steady with another 73 and Cameron Stewart bounced back with a 74. Andrew Stewart stumbled somewhat with 76 which is his worst round to date but he still has a four shot lead over Whitehouse. Laubsch is two shots further back and Cameron is seven back with the last round this Saturday. Four shots is not an insurmountable lead, particularly as all four will be playing together in a seeded group and Whitehouse has the experience to put the pressure on early. The reality is that if Andrew can shoot 75 he should win his first club championship but that will be easier said than done. If he is able to do it and withstand the challenges of Whitehouse and Laubsch then I believe he should be added to the Country Week team as a back up reserve. Greg Rhodes has withdrawn from the team due to work commitments and has been replaced by Sean Baumgurtel. Nine players will be taken with all nine playing each day. No provision is being allowed for if someone becomes ill or is injured or simply loses form badly. Last year our top juniors were taken as caddies but this year they are in the team and there are no Walkers, Laubsch's or Laird's as the next in line to be caddies on standby.
McPEHEE EYES TITLE NUMBER SEVEN AT RED CLIFF
Justin McPhee is poised to win his seventh club championship at Red Cliffs golf club following two polished rounds at the weekend. McPhee shot 71 on both days to career away to a ten shot lead over first round leader Darren Mannix. Mannix plays off a ten handicap and has recorded rounds of 74-75-78 to be 18 shots under his handicap. This is a phenomenal performance under championship conditions as he has averaged playing to a four handicap and so far has achieved his target of playing all four rounds in the 70's. McPhee is a class golfer as you would expect our Country Week captain to be. Unfortunately the club's top juniors Tim Walker and Tyler Verbeek were unable to participate in the championships robbing the A grade field of McPhee's main challengers.
ANDREW THOMAS HOLDING ON AT WENTWORTH
Andrew Thomas is playing inspired golf at Wentworth and will become the only player so far to lead from start to finish if he wins the 2010 Wentworth Club Championship on Saturday. Last Saturday he held a two stroke advantage over four times club champion Matt Lynch who was breathing down his neck. Thomas though, was able to absorb the pressure and increase his lead after a brilliant two under par 69. Lynch wasn't resting on his laurels either as he posted a 71 only to fall 4 shots behind with one round to go. Thomas has not been regarded as one of our top players in recent times as he has played little Open golf and virtually no pennant for some years. His main claim to fame was beating Ashley Whitehouse in a pennant match at Red Cliffs whilst playing for Riverside in the early 2000's. A win in this championship particularly with the scores he has shot would elevate Thomas into the top echelon of the districts golfers and hopefully he will continue on next year and aim at Country Week selection. Next year if Wentworth can persuade all of their top players to play pennant they would have a more than competitive team that would include Thomas, Lynch, Allan Lillia, Darren Bottomly and Nathan Gard. That would give Division one six teams.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The weather must have knocked the scores around last week as there weren't as many "burglar" type scores recorded for adjudication for the Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week.. At Riverside Margo Adair played good golf for 41 points only to be out done by Chris Thomas who shot one under par for a nett 66, then Cath Kent had 43 points. Wayne Dahmes who is a new golfer at Mildura recorded his best round so far with a nett 65 and over at Coomealla one of the club's fore fathers Vin Byrnes had 43 points. At Wentworth Fred Campbell kept the dream alive with an excellent nett 63 to win the Round of the Week. Fred can collect one dozen Srixon Distance golf balls by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

24/8/10

LAUBSCH AND WALKER SELECTED IN STATE SQUAD
District juniors Jake Laubsch and Tim Walker have been selected in the under 18 junior Victorian squad. The two boys were short listed from 35 elite juniors into a squad of 15 after a three day training camp last month at Moonah Links Golf Club on the Mornington Peninsula. The final team of six to represent the State in the Australian interstate championships will be announced in February. This achievement of being selected into a State squad is huge, not only for the lads themselves, but also for our district. For a Sunraysia golfer to be selected into a State squad is a first. Greg Rhodes was overlooked for more than 20 years. The tyranny of distance was always given as the reason. Over the years we have had some very talented juniors who weren't even considered for such a squad. These included Bill Beckwith, Justin Carroll, Darren Page, John Argiro,Lars Holden, Jason Zambelli, Andrew Strearfeild and Greg McConnell. To put the selection into perspective, it is the equivalent at the very least to one of our young footballers being drafted to an AFL team. Between now and February Jake and Tim will have to do everything right as all aspects of their games will be scrutinized to the enth degree. Jake is without doubt the most exciting prospect to emerge in my time in golf over the last 30 years. To take that next step he has to work on his on course behaviour as he has a tendency to throw in more than the occasional "McEnroe". If he can eliminate that aspect of his game then the sky is the limit for him. Golf is a game of recovery, you hit it, you go find it. you hit it again. Even Tiger Woods doesn't hit it perfectly every time, every golfer gets frustrated at not being able to always achieve perfection with every shot. The very best players are the ones who recover quickest and put the bad shots behind them and concentrate on the next shot. Walker has already tasted State selection, albeit at secondary school level, so he has had a taste of what is required to succeed. State junior selection though, is another step up but both of these lads are capable. Hopefully as a golfing community we can give them all the support that they need to help them be selected.
GREGGS DAY AT OUYEN
On Sunday I had the pleasure of witnessing a degree of community spirit that was most uplifting. Greggs Electrical have been running a golf event in Ouyen since 1979. During this period more than $80, 000 has been raised and donated back to the Ouyen community through various local organizations. On Sunday for instance Mallee Parish, Ouyen Farm Safety and the Ouyen Cemetery Trust were the beneficiaries this year. It was only a one day event for the first twenty years but in 2000 it had grown so much it became a two day celebration of golf and giving. Ron and Marg Gregg run the event lock stock and barrel and it was obvious to this observer how proud they were to be of service to their community. In over 30 years of attending golf events I have never witnessed such an overwhelming sense of community spirit as was evident by everyone in attendance on Sunday. The trophies were first class and the hospitality second to none Golfers came from Adelaide, Melbourne, Rutherglen, Horsham, Red Cliffs, Riverside and Mildura. The brother and sister combination of Steven and Sandy Briggs who formerly lived in Ouyen took out the main handicap event on Saturday with Wayne and Bev Manley winning the scratch. On Sunday Riverside's Carol Benning and Sharon Campbell were the top female combination whilst Ouyen stalwarts Norm Latta and Ken Graham were the best men's team. Put this event into your golfing diary for next year as you can be assured of a wonderful day out on one of the top sand scrape golf courses in the State.
MATOTEK TOO GOOD AT MERBEIN
Phil Matotek has forged a reputation as one of this district's best sportsmen over a long period of time. Phil is a bit of a legend at Merbein where he won best and fairest, played interleague football and played in premierships in both football and cricket. In the last couple of years he has turned his attention to golf and soon discovered that it is the hardest game of all to conquer. There are no team mates in golf as it is purely an individual pursuit of excellence. In only his second attempt at winning a club championship at Merbein golf club he has once again risen to the occasion and finished on top. After being leader after round one it looked like how far Matotek. Disaster struck in round two when an 87 followed the previous day's 76. Back to the drawing board last week he worked with his coach to right the ship. Right the ship he did at the weekend when he returned a 77 on Saturday and a 78 on Sunday. Peter "Smasher" McGaffin who led after 36 holes couldn't maintain his form and slipped up with a 90 on Saturday but recovered with a 79 on Sunday to go down by 10 shots to the "Tosh". Matotek has the game to get down to a low single figure handicap and could even press for country week selection in the next few years if he is prepared to pay the same price that he did with football and cricket.
MANNIX SURPRISES AT RED CLIFFS
Footballers turned golfers were the theme of the weekend after Darren "Oscar" Mannix surprised everyone including himself at Red Cliffs on Saturday in the first round of the Red Cliffs golf club 2010 championships. Mannix was a talented footballer who began at Irymple but preferred the more relaxed attitude of Millewa football where his goal kicking exploits as a small forward were outstanding. Since taking up golf several years ago he has impressed with his long hitting and totally relaxed attitude on the golf course. On Saturday he returned a 74 but on handing in his card realised that he had in fact signed for a bogey on the fourth hole when he had actually had a par. Bad luck, once you put your card in the score stands. Six times club champion Justin McPhee is one shot back on 75 and is obviously still the man to beat. Red Cliffs will play the second and third rounds this weekend and the fourth round on Saturday September 4. Mannix is under no illusions and realises the task ahead of him. It would be a golfing miracle if he could stay with McPhee right up to the fourth round and put on a grandstand finish. You know, if you can do it once you can do it twice, a third time is a bit harder and then a fourth, who knows, it just might happen, go Oscar.
THOMAS IN FRONT AT WENTWORTH
Andrew Thomas 71-73 hasn't been playing at Wentworth for that long but he has taken a liking to the course and leads the club championship after two rounds by two shots from pre tournament favourite Matt Lynch. Wentworth this year decided to run their championships over four consecutive Saturday's which is a long time but so far Thomas has led from go to whoa. Lynch who is formerly from Robinvale has won the Wentworth club championship several times and looked to have it on his own when Nathan Garde was declared a non starter. Thomas though, had different ideas. Darren Bottomly parred the course on Saturday but blew out in the first round putting him out of contention. Phil Lawn was the equal first round leader but an 81 dropped him off the pace on Saturday. Round three this week is where you can't win the title but you sure can lose it, so both Thomas and Lynch will be eyeing each other to make sure they are both still live in the last round.
CAMERON STEWART LEADS AT MILDURA
Cameron Stewart's 73 was good enough to lead brother Andrew by one stroke in the first round of the Mildura Golf Club Resort 2010 championships. Cameron has been no stranger to the top of the leaderboard in club championships but so far he has not been able to get over the line. It would be fantastic if he were able to achieve success in this event. Andrew has had a return to form over the past few weeks. This had undoubtable been his worst year since he became one of the top players in district golf in the mid 90's. Nothing would give him more satisfaction than to win his first club championship at Mildura, even if it meant knocking off brother Cameron. On the third line is Jake Laubsch on 76 who would still be most peoples choice to take out his first club championship at Mildura. Laubsch is the reigning district champion and also the reigning Coomealla 2009 club champion. Three shots is nothing with three rounds to go but you still have to put the score on the board. In equal fifth place is multiple club champion Ashley Whitehouse who is having regular physiotherapist sessions to overcome a hip injury. It would not surprise if Whitehouse were to come good and hit the front at any time in the championship as he has done it many times before. Rounds two and three will be played this weekend with round four being played on Saturday September 4.
SDGA - NWWG Fundraiser
The gremlins got into the system last week as I reported that the combined SDGA - NWWG Inc fundraiser was to be held at Merbein golf club last Friday. It is in fact this Friday night when the last ticket out of the barrel will win the lucky reipient $2500. All proceeds will assist in sending our two representative teams to Melbourne to represent Sunraysia. Contact Justin McPhee, Trevor Carroll or Sue Laird for tickets.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE-ROUND OF THE WEEK
Riverside golf club dominated the top scores returned from around the district this week. Kevin Eastwood had two great rounds including 46 points one day and a nett 64 the next. Wendy Dawson and Tony Scullino both had nett 64's and Rob Garioch had 45 points. At Mildura Frank Tippett had 44 points and Chris Nugent had a 64 nett in the first round of the championships. Out at Wentworth Ron Lyell won the daily with 63 nett from Darren Bottomly who parred the course and had nett 63 but had to settle for runner up. To par the course in a championship is good enough to win Darren the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week and he can pick up his prize of one dozen Srixon Soft Feel golf balls fro the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

17/8/10

SUNRAYSIA WIN VICTORIAN COUNTRY JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
Sunraysia easily won their division (B) of the Victorian Country Junior Championships at Kyneton at the weekend. In appalling conditions our boys won the scratch section of the competition by an aggregate of 47 strokes and the handicap section by 20 strokes. As this had never been achieved before a meeting was convened by the VGA which decided that only one section could be won so Dalhousie District were awarded the handicap section. Both districts will now be elevated to A division next year where the Championship will be contested at Heathcote. On Saturday it was windy and wet but the team had had a good hit out on the course on Friday and felt well prepared for the battle against Dalhousie, Northern, Wimmera, South Eastern, East Gippsland and West Gippsland. Sunraysia led by 23 strokes after Jake Laubsch came in with the days best score of 74 followed by Ryan Laird 75 and Tim Walker 81. On Sunday the rain in the morning was torrential and the VGA toyed with the notion of abandoning the days play. But play they did and Tim Walker disregarded the rain and water soaked greens to record a brilliant 71 which was by far and away the best round of the tournament. Shay Toma put his hand up with an excellent 76 and Dom Vartulli had a creditable 80. The format of the competition is medal matchplay with the best seven scores from each nine man team counted. Sunraysia's aggregate of 1145 averaged out at just over 81 per player over the two days, which, in the conditions was sensational. Tim Walker took out the best player of the tournament award and the VGA representative noted how far Sunraysia had come in three years from no representative team to 2010 Division Champions. Well done to the team which included Jake Laubsch, Tim Walker, Ryan Laird, Tyler Verbeek, Dom Vartulli, Shay Toma, Luke Stanbrook, David Filippi, Jason Tassone and the two emergencies Tom Holmes and Josef Moisidis who both ended up getting a game. Tyler Verbeek will be the only boy not eligible next year so with natural improvement who knows what can happen in the top division.
TIM WALKER TO REPRESENT VICTORIA
On Friday Red Cliffs Secondary College student Tim Walker will fly to Port Macquarie to represent Victoria in a six boy team in the Australian Secondary School Championships. The boys will play a 36 hole championship on Monday August 23 and then 90 holes of matchplay from Tuesday through to Thursday. Six States will participate with each State playing each other once over 18 holes of matchplay golf similar to the format of Melbourne Country Week in October. It is a huge honour for Tim and Red Cliffs Secondary College to be one of only six boys chosen to represent the State from hundreds of other players. Good luck Tim.
SMASHER MCGAFFIN TAKES OVER AT MERBEIN
Peter "Smasher" McGaffin has never been a contender in a Club Championship at Merbein Golf Club. That was until last weekend when he hit the front in the 2011 Club Championship. On Saturday long hitting ex footballer Phil "Tosh" Matotek carved out a 76 to set the pace on day one. Smasher McGaffin wasn't far away on 79 and was living up to the pre championship notion that he was the man to beat. This had come about after his excellent form during the recent pennant season, when he led the Merbein boys to a comfortable victory in division three. Only Ken Matulick on 84 looked like any other chance as 2009 champion Roger Walder struggled with his first ever title defence. On Sunday Matotek felt the heat that most overnight leaders often do and collapsed with an 87. Smasher, playing in a different group returned an 80 which included a lost ball penalty. Only Frank Crouch's 80 was anywhere close to the Smasher on the day. Smasher leads Matotek by four strokes and will have the week as Championship leader to endure. Four shots is nothing over 36 holes so either man can still become a Club Champion for the first time. In B grade Graham Kerr had 92-94 to lead from club captain Frank Drayton on 92-95 and Merv Woodhouse 93-94. The prestigious Martin Cup is up for grabs with Smasher leading his dad Howard by five shots and Matotek by six strokes
GRAHAM EDDIE - MILDURA GOLF CLUB GREENKEEPER
Graham Eddie grew up in Dareton but has played little golf at Coomealla. Reason being, because he began his working like as an apprentice greenkeeper at Mildura Golf Club Resort in 1978 and that is where he has played most of his golf. I rang Graham to talk about his time at Mildura assuring him that it would take only a few minutes. Two hours later I hung up the phone after a most pleasant Sunday afternoon chat about his life, Mildura golf course and Sunraysia's golf courses. What a pleasure it was. You see, there isn't anyone else who has been a greenkeeper in Sunraysia for the last 32 years that is still working in that job and his openness and frank views were most refreshing. Being a greenkeeper in Sunraysia has got to be one of the hardest jobs you could have. Golfers are like punters, they talk through their scorecards. It is rare for someone who has just won a tournament to get up and say the course was ordinary. Usually it is a big thank you to the green staff for a wonderful job. Go out then and listen to the blokes who finish down the list and you will hear that the course is this and that and the greens were no good, the pins were in terrible positions etc. Graham worked under Frank Dunn for 12 years until Frank retired and he took over as the head man in 1990. "Greenkeeping was a different proposition in those days because we used to water manually through bayonet sprinklers that took two days to cover the course as we had to change them around each day. We had five staff on then including a full time mechanic fixing equipment". Eddie said. Mildura is a tough place to maintain a golf course, particularly in summer. "From December through till the end of February if you can get through without losing too much grass you are doing a good job" he explained. "Don Brown introduced our first computerised watering system in the mid 80's which made watering so much easier. In recent times water became scarce and expensive which made things tough. Now we get water from the treatment facility which has helped enormously"" he said. The new problem that has arisen this year is locusts by the million and they present an enormous problem as the toxic sprays suggested to combat them is not all that golfer friendly, so it's a case of no grass versus the safety issue. Eddie has seen all of the big events held at Mildura in the last 32 years but several stand out. "Bruce Milgate began his tenure as club professional four months before I started at the club but he introduced the Pro Am circuit in Sunraysia in the 80's and they were some great tournaments. Golf Week was huge in the 80's and the club house used to really rock every night of Golf Week. The Sunraysia Matchplay Championships saw the biggest spectator crowds come to the finals in the 90's and the Australian National Veteran Championship in 2004 was an enormous event". he said. Over the years Mildura Golf Club Resort has had lots of other characters come and go but a few stood out for Graham. "Ken Cameron has been a great Mildura identity as has Noel Pugsley - a true gentleman, Robert Young, Steven "Strop" Henshall and my old sparring partner Jack Andrews were all people whose company I enjoyed" he said. After playing in a tournament recently outside of our district I told him of the ridiculous spots that some of the pins had been placed and his response was quite refreshing when he said.. "I believe golf is a hard enough game without making it any harder with ridiculous pin positions. When we set up the course for a tournament at Mildura I would much prefer to see the top players coming in with 66's rather than 76's" After playing golf in Sunraysia for the last 35 years and listening to both locals and visitors alike, the one thing I hear from year to year is the consistently good condition of the Mildura Golf Club Resort golf course which is a credit to Graham Eddie and his staff. Just to show what a dry sense of humour he has he ended our conversation by concluding
that "I love my job a a golf course greenkeeper - it would be really fantastic if it weren't for the golfers" Touch?.
SDGA/NWWG Inc FUNDRAISER AT MERBEIN GOLF CLUB
This Friday night the Sunraysia District Golf Association in conjunction with the North West Women's Golf Inc will conduct a Country Bonfire fundraiser night at the Merbein Golf Club. All proceeds will go to help sending our men's and ladies representative teams to Melbourne for Country Week and Country Teams. This promises to be a great night with all players from both teams sure to be there giving those who don't already know them a chance to meet them and hear about our chances in Melbourne this year. So far we already have one title in the bag and the ladies are a great chance also. The men face the hardest task but we weren't that far behind last year, so who knows how good our boys can be this year. The main prize of $2,500 on the night is going to make someone very happy so get your ticket, support the teams and have a great night. Sue Laird and Justin McPhee are the contacts for tickets so get in quick because it's on this Friday night.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This week there were some great scores from around the district including Wendy Dawson with net 64 at Riverside and Stephen Wait also with a net 64 at Wentworth which would be good enough to win most weeks but their scores were bettered by Jayne McInerny with net 63 at Coomealla. Max Watt topped both of those scores with 46 pts. at Riverside only to have Jodene Tuau come in with nett 61 at Coomealla in a sensational round of golf in trying conditions. Her weekly practice at the House of Golf Sunraysia Golf Range is obviously paying dividends and she wins 1 dozen Srixon Soft Feel golf balls for the SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE ROUND OF THE WEEK which must be collected by Friday.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

3/8/10

Coates Leads Murray Valley Championship
First Round leader in the 2010 Murray Valley Championship is 24 year old Aaron Coates from Rich River. Coates has fired two 71's at Mildura and Coomealla. Yesterday he was pleased to be in the leaders yellow jacket. "On Monday I started bogey bogey at Mildura and played three under par in the next sixteen holes. Yesterday I would have loved to have gone sub par but finished bogey bogey. I love the Coomealla golf course. It really is a great test of golf " Coates said after his round. Coates leads by five shots from Tim Atze from Mt Lofty in Adelaide who followed up a 70 at Mildura with 77.. Atze struggled for form in the Loxton Open at the weekend with 80-79 but started smartly on Monday with 70. Yesterday was a different affair with his putter not co-operating on the slick Coomealla greens. "My short game is normally my strenth but Coomealla won hands down yesterday" Atze said. Atze first played in the Murray Valley in 2003 and was runner up in 2006. This year the winner of two South Australian Country championships is hoping to go one better than 2006. Box Hill's Chris Wood, Clifton Springs Luke Allen, Hamilton's Chris Goggin and Sanctuary Lakes Travis Sharpe are all one shot back in equal third place on 148 Several local players came to the fore yesterday with Coomealla's Jake Slimmon coming in with with 73 after finishing double bogey, bogey. Slimmon 76-73 is two shots off the pace as is Mildura's Cameron Stewart who's had 73-76. Andrew Stewart followed up an opening 78 with an excellent 73 yesterday. Stewart has had an uncharacteristicly poor year in local tournaments but hoopefully he can continue on with his good form over the last two rounds of the Murray Valley Championship. Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker came home strongly with 40-35-75 adding to a disappointing 79 on Monday. Today the third round of the tournament will be played at Riverside with the last round at Mildura Golf Club Resort tomorrow.
In the ladies championship it is a forgone conclusion that 22 times winner Michelle Fumberger will walk away with her 23rd title. Fumberger's main opposition would have come from Sue Laird who unfortunately had to withdraw after burning her arm cooking soup whilst competing in a masterchef cook off against husband her Tom at home!
Amalgamation The Name of the Game
Only Victoria and Western Australia are yet to combine their men's and women's golf administration's into one controlling body in their respective States. Victorian Golf Association CEO David Greenhill expects the proposed amalgamation to go ahead later in the year. Yesterday he outlined some of the challenges facing our State and district associations as well as all individual golf clubs in the coming years throughout Victoria. "Most of the other State bodies have taken the big step of combining their men's and ladies organizations into one controlling body" he said. "For this to take place in Victoria there will have to be a 75 per cent agreement of support for the amalgamation within both bodies. It is felt that a co-operative approach by both bodies will benefit everyone for the future of golf in Victoria. Once the two bodies unite it is anticipated that regional associations such as Sunraysia will follow suit. There are 370 golf clubs in Victoria and it is estimated that 300,000 people in the State play golf at least once a year. Of these 300,000 only 110,000 (90,000 men - 20,000 women) are registered members of a golf club which means at least 190,000 people are possible member targets. Mr Greenhill went on to say "There are many benefits to joining a golf club and playing both competively and socially, convincing more people to actually join a local golf club is one of our biggest challenges". The new USGA slope handicapping system is now being adopted and currently a re rating of Australia's golf courses is taking place. Victorian Golf Association delegates were in Sunraysia recently and examined Coomealla, Mildura, Riverside and Broken Hill. All courses should be re rated by the end of 2012, then the complete USGA slope system will be utilized. At that point, members will be able to have social golf rounds included on their handicap record. This will assist golfers who currently may struggle to complete the required minimum five competition rounds which enables them to maintain a registered handicap. Mr Greenhill explained that "the new slope system provides more flexibility for all members and allows a more accurate reflection of their current form". Whilst the vast majority of tournament fields are dropping, it is the senior golf circuit that is gathering a steady momentum with 28 events listed this year with more than 500 participants. "There really has been an explosion of interest in seniors golf and this circuit which only began in 2005 is expanding every year". he said. Coomealla golf club will host it's fourth annual Seniors Championship from September 6-8 and is open to all men and ladies over 55 years of age.
Stuart Appleby - from Cohuna to Seattle
Stuart Appleby was the toast of Australian golf on Sunday when he became only the fifth golfer on the US PGA Tour to shoot the magical 59 and capture his ninth title in the US at White Sulphur Springs. It is the first time he has won since 2006 when he won the Houston Open. Since that win he has played in 110 tournaments without getting close. This week he will now contest the 35th World Golf Championship tournament in Ohio. He didn't qualify (world top 64) for the World Matchplay Championship and HSBC Championships earlier in the year but was the only player in the world to qualify and contest the first 32 WGC events. Appleby's first wife Renay was tragically killed in a freak car accident in 1998 but he met Ashley who was working as a volunteer at White Sulphur Springs ten years ago. They married in 2002 and have two girls and a boy and one on the way. Appleby plays a significant role as a key father figure to his next door neighbour Tracey Stewart's two children. Tracey's husband Payne was killed in a aeroplane accident in 1999 and was one of Appleby's closest friends. Appleby comes from nearby Cohuna and played as a junior in Mildura several times before heading off to try and make a name for himself in Melbourne. In 1990 he was selected in the Victorian Country Week team to play South Australia at Loxton Golf Club. That day the course record was broken four times with Appleby's 66 still the best ever at Loxton. The following February I played with him in the pre qualifying for the Victorian Amateur Championship at Spring Valley and Long Island Golf Clubs. His course record of 67 stood at Long Island for over ten years until they changed one of the holes and a new record was struck. Appleby went on to win that championship which goes into matchplay after the 36 hole pre qualifying event. In 1992 he turned professional and won twice on the Nationwide Tour in 1995, from there he blossomed on the US PGA Tour. His win in the Greenbier Classic earnt him $1.08 million dollars and gives him another two year exemption on the US PGA Tour. Afterwards he said "I am really looking forward to now booking some airline flights to go back home to Australia for a holiday". You can take boy out of the country but you can't take the country out of the boy. Good on you Stuey!
Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week
Stuart Appleby was definitely the round of the week in the US but locally we had a couple of good performances too. Riverside has been getting good course reviews lately and scoring at that venue certainly vindicates the good news. Graeme Fisher, Keith Dickson, Alan Connolly and Brad Giddings all returned nett 64's and John Birch topped them all with 45 points. Out at Red Cliffs Marj Rogers had 44 points but Val Fogg emerged from the mist to have 47 points, Val wins the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week and must collect one dozen Srixon Soft Feel golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range by

27/7/10

JAKE LAUBSCH WINS SUNRAYSIA CHAMPIONSHIP
Jake Laubsch was the winner of the Sunraysia District Golf Championship on Sunday when he won in a sudden death play off with Sunraysia Country Week captain Justin McPhee at Mildura Golf Club Resort . Sixteen year old Laubsch became the youngest winner since Andrew Keogh who won in 1987. Prior to Keoghm Bill Beckwith first won the prestigious title as a teenager in 1974 then went back to back in 1975. Laubsch started the day four shots behind the districts number one golfer Greg Rhodes but reeled in the champion in the first nine holes, relegating him to equal fifth. In November last year Laubsch stamped himself as something special when he came from four behind Rhodes in the last round of the Coomealla club championship to win his first club championship. The win by Laubsch is his first Open tournament victory. On Saturday he, like so many other, struggled on the greens to record five bogeys and thirteen pars. Rhodes led with 73 from Tim Walker 74 and Tyler Verbeek 76. Other contenders included McPhee 78, Ryan Laird 78, Leigh Fuller 80 and Ashley Whitehouse and Jake Slimmon on 81. McPhee played in a group two holes in front of the seeded top four and finished on 74. Fuller had already finished after a closing 73. Rhodes had gone out in 43 and was clearly struggling, particularly with the putter. The three juniors playing with Rhodes had all risen to the occasion with Laubsch and Verbeek closing the gap to share the lead with Walker one shot back. Laubsch was the only one to hit the par 3 18th green in regulation but duly three putted for a closing 75. Walker recovered brilliantly to get up and down and finish with a disappointing 79. Verbeek let it slip around the back for 78 and Rhodes had an uncharacteristic 81. The sudden death play off was over in a blink as McPhee marginally missed a difficult birdie putt leaving Laubsch to seal victory with a short birdie putt. Jake Laubsch is now back on track and if he works hard in the next two months he will be our most valuable player in Melbourne come October. McPhee was vying for his third district title in four years and almost pulled it off. Rhodes would no doubt be devastated. It is unfamiliar territory for him to shoot 81 after being in front. A win would have been his 15th in the championship since he first won in 1977. He will win it again, even at 51 he is still our best golfer, but Laubsch is closing fast. This year's Coomealla Club championship will be well worth watching. The Sunraysia District Golf Association really have to sit down and work out how it can attract more than 64 players to contest it's major championship. Surely a field of at least 100 can be fielded locally, let alone if some advertising was done in nearby zones such as Broken Hill, Swan Hill, Horsham and the Riverland. The SDGA also must ensure that the host club presents it's course to the standard that such an event warrants. On Sunday the pin positions had not been changed from the previous day which is just not good enough. Apart from our top juniors already mentioned, there were some encouraging results from the championship. Junior players including David Fillippi, Tom Holmes, Dom Vartulli and Chris Nugent all performed admirably which augers well for the future.
JUSTIN MCPHEE - SUNRAYSIA DISTRICT CAPTAIN
Justin McPhee began playing golf at Red Cliff golf club in 1986 and has since gone on to become it's most decorated player. It is no mean feat to win the club championship six times, including once when he carried the responsibility as captain of the club. As well as victories in the club championship he has recorded ten Open tournament victories at Robinvale, Renmark, Coomealla, Riverside, Wentworth, Red Cliffs and the district. Fourteen years ago he was chosen for the first time to represent Sunraysia at Melourne Country Week and in 2005 was appointed captain of the Sunraysia Country Week team. Since then Sunraysia has been extremely successful winning division three and two and maintaining its place in division one. On Sunday the team was announced and included Greg Rhodes, Ashley Whitehouse, Jacob Slimmon, Leigh Fuller, Cameron Stewart, Jake Laubsch, Tim Walker and Ryan Laird. Sean Baumgurtel was named emergency by the selection committee that included Greg McCubbin, Trevor Carroll, Brian Tyers, Steven Henshall and Neville Walker. "This year our team includes a great blend of youth and experience" Mcphee said yesterday. "The three new juniors in the team - Laubsch, Walker and Laird have all had experience in Melbourne and know what to expect so it won't be too hard an introduction to Country Week Matchplay. Laubsch shows glimpses of exceptional talent and can only get better playing with and against top players. Laird and Walker have both had terrific pennant seasons both locally and in Melbourne colts pennant. Tim knows only one way and that is to attack so if he can learn to back off sometimes and attack at the appropriate time he will be an asset this year". Last year the SDGA hired a coach and this was an enormous bonus in Melbourne as it gave the players and officials an opportunity to discuss tactics and review the matches each night on the return journey. Additionally it created a great camaraderie amongst the team, playing and behavioural awards were struck with Leigh Fuller and Ashley Whitehouse being the ring leaders supply some comedy relief. "This year we play at Victoria, Royal Melbourne and Keysborough and most of our players have played those courses before, obviously, we are all looking forward to the first division challenge once again" McPhee concluded.
NORTH WEST WOMENS GOLF - CUNTRY TEAM
The representative team for the NWWG was named on Sunday at Riverside golf club. Great news for our chances this year is that Michelle Fumberger returns to the team along with Renmark's Michelle Bowditch who is also a member at Coomealla and plays off 9. Other team members this year include - Sue Laird, Nycole Riordan, Eily Raeck, Julie McEwan, Fran Richards, Rhonda Young Sonya Golitschenko and Jodene Tuau. Whilst the senior and junior male teams are both expecting to do well this year it is perhaps our ladies best team for some time. Country Teams championships will be played from August 30-September 1st at Sanctuary Lakes, Eynesbury and Medway.
SUNRAYSIA JUNIOR TEAM READY TO SUCCEED
Sunraysia will field it's best junior team for more than 20 years at Kyneton on August 14 in the junior version of Country week. The team consists of Jake Laubsch, Tyler Verbeek, Tim Walker, Ryan Laird, Shay Toma, Luke Stanbrook, David Fillippi, Dominic Vartulli and Jason Tassone. Emergencies are Damon Southgate, Tom Holmes and Josef Moisidis. Our top four players will be more than competitive with any opposition whilst Toma, Stanbrook, Vartulli, Fillippi and Tassone are more than capable of holding their own. The boys will have a practise run at Kyneton on the 13th which should give them an advantage over the other teams.
BERNHARD LANGER WINS BRITISH SENIOR OPEN
Gremany's Bernhard Langer won two US Masters titles but said on Sunday at Carnoustie that "the British Open was always the one championship I wanted to win. I didn't. Now this is the next best thing" Langer said after he was presented with the British Senior Open Trophy. Langer won by only one stroke from former US Open champion Corey Pavin. Langer was the first world number one when world rankings were first introduced in the mid 80's. Germany's best ever golfer was always around the top of the leaderboards of the 80's and 90's and is still competitive in any tournament he plays. Two other former world number one's competed at Carnoustie including Welshman Ian Woosnam and Englands Nick Faldo. Australia's top finisher was Peter Senior finished third and is enjoying moderate success in his first year as a senior (50) professional. This week the US Senior Open will be played in Washington and Fred Couples will start a hot favourite..
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This week the competition was red hot for the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week with six players in contention. Coomealla 74 year old Joan Birch broke her age easily for a nett 68 which is more than worthy of mention. Robinvale featured this week with David Peniongo returning nett 65 and Ken Upton 64. At Wentworth Bill Murray had 44 points as did Faye Rioss at Red Cliffs. Kelvin Wilson was eight under handicap at Riverside but out at Red Cliffs Di Metcalf stole the show with 47 points. Di can pick up one dozen Srixon Soft Feel golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range in Ontario Avenue by Friday.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au.
Good golfing to all.

20/07/10

DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIPS AT MILDURA
Mildura Golf Club Resort will host the Sunraysia District Golf Association 2010 championships this weekend. Last year at Wentworth Justin McPhee had 74-70 to win by two strokes from Jacob Slimmon 73-73. McPhee usually plays well at Mildura but had a hiccup in the pennant final last month when Slimmon beat him convincingly. Slimmon could be the man to beat if his recent form continues. This year he has really stepped up to be considered in the same company, form wise, as Rhodes, Whitehouse and McPhee as our district's A listers. Whitehouse won't be far away. On Saturday at Coomealla in cold slow conditions he shot 71, if he had putted to his usual standard it could easily have been a 67 or 68. Rhodes quite often goes quiet in the middle of the year but the whiff of another district championship title will have him up and ready to go come Saturday. Of the others, much interest will centre on our leading juniors. Tim Walker had a 76 at Broken Hill on Saturday seems to have nudged in front of the others somewhat, this weekend will show where he is at. Tyler Verbeek has been most impressive of late at Mildura and Coomealla and is going along nicely. Ryan Laird hasn't done much wrong but hasn't really been a factor in any of our main events, so this is his chance to shine. Jake Laubsch is the mystery man, only six months ago he looked to be the boy most likely to take over as our districts number one player. Maybe, that pressure of expectation was too much of a hindrance as he has seemed to back off with his golf in recent months. He plays Mildura regularly, hopefully he is ready to come out and show the form that everyone knows he is capable of. Entries will still be accepted up until Friday for the championship but obviously from an organisational viewpoint, the earlier the better. This championship is and should be our marquee open tournament of the year and the SDGA are hoping to get the support of all local club golfers irrespective of their age or handicaps.

FRANK BENHAM - ROBINVALE'S MR RELIABLE
Frank Benham was born in Mildura but moved to Robinvale when he was eight and has called Robinvale/Euston home ever since. He joined the Robinvale golf club committee in 1975 and succeeded Peter McIntosh as captain in 1980. Frank was one of Robinvale's best ever captains and during his captaincy the club flourished. Robinvale was always in contention in most pennant grades during the 70's through the 90's and always had excellent representation in district events. Yesterday Frank recounted some of the glory days of Robinvale Golf Club. "Robinvale had a big player base back in the 70's and 80's when it seemed like 70 percent of the districts population all played golf, either socially or in competition" he said. "Saturday was always men's day and Sunday was mixed when a lot of the ladies would join with the men. We had some great days back then" These days it is much harder to attract members as Robinvale has become such a multi cultural precinct. In winter almost all of the town heads off to the football and Sunday quite often is a "recovery" day. Frank Benham has done most of the jobs that need doing at a golf club, including calling bingo, which can be a tough assignment. As Robinvale's SDGA delegate he is keeping Robinvale in the loop as to what's going on at our other district golf clubs. Club president Peter McIntosh described Frank Benham as "just so reliable and well respected at the club. If he says he will do something, then you just forget about it because you know it will be done". he said. Like all golf clubs Robinvale has had its fair share of characters and people who have made significant contributions to the Robinvale "brand". "Hat" Giddings devoted his life to the Robinvale golf club and was always synonymous with the club. Unfortunately his health has deteriorated recently but his contribution will never be forgotten. "Hondo" Gratton Wood has taken over as captain this year and is doing a sterling job after Leigh Priest held the post for ten years. Peter McIntosh has been the glue that has held the club together over the last few years and his vision has been important to the clubs ongoing viability. Jessie Graham and Betty Bailey take the junior clinics each week and carry on the legacy that Dot Fumberger created with Robinvale's juniors for many years. Robinvale has produced more top golfers per capita than any other local golf club. Juniors who have gone on to bigger things include Kate McIntosh, Greg McConnell, Greg Longmore, Mark Bowd and Jason Zambelli who all went on to become golf professionals. Throw in Chelsea Litchfield who won a Murray Valley Championship and Sunraysia's greatest ever female golfer Michelle Fumberger and it is easy to see why Robinvale are so proud of their clubs development of youngsters in golf. Other memorable characters that are prominent in Robinvale folklore include Ken Barnes who used a reverse grip but was never beaten in B grade pennant, even though he reached the peak of his powers in his 60's. John and Betty Lane have long been regarded as stalwarts of the club. Mr Grumpy, George Fumberger is a district legend having won the Wentworth Open over 36 holes on the one day at 64 years of age against Greg Rhodes and all of the district's top players. Whilst the glory days may be gone, Robinvale golf club is working towards a rebirth of the club and looking to a new breed of golfers that will drive the club forward. Quality people such as Frank Benham, Peter McIntosh, Gratton Wood and a host of others won't be happy until Robinvale golf club is thriving again. The clubhouse is equal to any in the district, the golf course is holding up well and if the club can attract a forward thinking entrepreneur to build a top class motel facility on the course then just watch the club move back up the leader board. The Robinvale Festival of Golf will move back a week this year so as not to clash with the AFL grand final and will be conducted from September 29th to October 3rd.

BRITISH OPEN
St Andrews didn't disappoint anyone who played, attended or viewed the 150th anniversary Open last week. The course is amazing with only eleven greens, seven greens are double greens and provide for fourteen of the holes. Indeed, the greens appear as virtual extensions of the fairways with their humps and bumps. Our Aussies finished well down the track but little known South African Louis Oosthuizen was extraordinary and seemed in a different zone to the rest of the field. Oosthuizen is the first "graduate from compatriot Ernie Els junior golf academy to play in a major. He displayed a combination of power golf and calmness of mind that delivered a simple efficiency of getting the job done each day in conditions less than friendly. Only the US PGA in August is to come of the four majors of world golf.

SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
There were a couple of big scores to consider for the Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the week. At Riverside Larry Frasca and Les Ball each had 43 points as did Leanne Bottomly at Wentworth. Liz Wallace looked like taking the award with 45 points at Riverside until Joy Carr came in with a great round of 47 points at Wentworth. Joy wins one dozen Srixon Soft Feel golf balls and must collect them from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.

Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

13/07/10

MILDURA GOLF WEEK FACES CHALLENGE
Entries for the 63rd Mildura Golf Week are slightly down again this year. Other major local golf tournaments such as the Tri-State Masters and Robinvale Festival of Golf have also struggled, numbers wise, in recent times. The Victorian Golf Association have decided not to send up a group of aspiring State team representatives this year due to expenditure cut backs. Whilst this robs the tournament of some of it's class, there are still more than a dozen players off one handicaps or better. Clearly though, the new slope handicapping system has seen most low handicappers drop even lower. Some players who were off three and four handicaps have dropped to scratch or better since the new system was adopted. Sanctuary Lakes have supported the tournament well with three top players including Travis Sharpe +2, Daniel Valente +2 and Craig Whitehead 0. Luke Allen from Clifton Springs +2, Peter Brown Morwell +2,Chris Wood +2 and Nick Matuszczyk +2 represent a strong array of talent. Locally we will have excellent representation with Tim Walker, Ryan Laird, Tyler Verbeek and Cameron and Andrew Stewart. Sue Laird will fly the flag in the ladies section. Local golfers wanting to enter should do so now as the draws are being finalised on Friday. Contact Trevor Carroll on 50 222447. This year six people will be competing for the 21st time, qualifying them for Life Membership.

WAYNE BROOKS - THE COUNT OF WENTWORTH
There are lots of people playing golf in Sunraysia that I see regularly either at work at the Sunraysia Golf Range or maybe socially or even just in passing up the street. Very few if any, on sight, straight away remind me of their golf club. Whenever I saw Wayne Brooks however, or Brooksy as he was known, I straight away thought of Wentworth Golf Club. Brooksy passed away several weeks ago after a fight with cancer but his memory will live on at Wentworth golf club. Wayne Brooks lived in Melbourne but liked to spend his holidays in Wentworth. For over ten years he would travel up from Melbourne and play golf at the club and socialize with the locals. In 1989 he decided to semi retire and move to Wentworth for good. "Brooksy" soon became the face of Wentworth golf club, running their Thursday competitions each week and working on the course with the green staff. In 1992 the Wentworth Memorial Sporting Club fell into financial trouble and handed the reigns of running the golf club back to the golf club committee. The committee virtually threw their hands in the air and most walked away from the club. Michael Golitschenko was then approached by several members to take over the presidency and put together a new crew that included Neville Blanch, Scott Connor and Brooksy. Brooksy was pivotal to the on going viability of the club and took over the running of the day to day business, such as the bar and taking of green fees and competition fees. This continued for three years until the main club righted their situation and took back the financial side of running the club. During that three years though, every Friday night Gola, Blanchy and a few others would congregate at the golf club for a few drinks and a chat during which time Brooksy would begin counting the weeks takings. Brooksy was a non drinker but was always happy to fit in with those who enjoyed a wee drop. Each week as the night wore on and the others became louder Brooksy would often lose count and would yell at the others to "shut up" and then he would start counting again. Hence he became known as the "Count". The count was handicapper for thirteen years and treasurer for seven. Last year he was elected as Vice President. At the 2009 AGM he was awarded life membership to the club that he loved so much. Michael Golitschenko was a long time admirer of the Count and relayed some of the stories that were told last Sunday at the Wayne Brooks memorial Day at Wentworth Golf Club. "Brooksy was a unique person and a very loyal friend he said. He loved the Wentworth Golf Club and was very passionate about golf. When things got tight in 1992 a group of us jumped in to try and keep the club going. Brooksy worked on the course with Ross Holland and ran the club house and virtually anything else that he could do for the club. The course began to really blossom and our fields went up and soon we were back on track as a golf club. We used to go away on trips playing golf and Brooksy was known as our "tour manager" as he usually drove us home from clubs, cooked breakfast and made sure we were on time and ready to play. He had a very dry sense of humour and was always prepared to laugh at himself". Whilst he was in Melbourne he had an industrial accident and lost four fingers off a hand but this didn't stop him from getting down to a nine handicap at the peak of his golfing career at Wentworth. These days the Wentworth golf club is still battling away. It has reduced it's 12 month subscription (July 2010 - June 2011) to only $80 and is trying to resurrect the glory days when Thursdays were the biggest day of the week for the club. For only a $7 comp fee any district club member can play in the stableford competition. More over, every third Thursday of the month a free steak sandwhich is thrown in. That's tomorrow folks. Last Sunday, after golf, some of Brooksy's friends conducted a roast and it was mentioned that he was a keen St Kilda supporter and had a favourite golf ball that had a St Kilda emblem on it. Several years ago he lost the beloved ball on the practise fairway and was quite devastated. Two weeks after he passed away one of the boys was mowing the fairway and found it. The ball has since been mounted onto a trophy for which will be awarded each year to the winner of the Wayne Brooks Memorial Day. Who knows, this could just be the year of the Saints. Rest in Peace, Wayne Brooks.

150TH BRITISH OPEN AT ST ANDREWS
Thursday afternoon at 3-30pm local time the 150th anniversary Open will hit off at St Andrews - the home of golf which was founded in 1754. Originally the course consisted of 22 holes, eleven out and eleven back. In 1764 the Royal and Ancient Golf Club decided that some holes were too short and combined them with others, reducing the total number of holes to 18. This then became the standard number of holes for golf courses around the world. This year will be the 28th staging of the British Open at St Andrews. Tiger Woods has won the last two there in 2000 and 2005. The difficulty of the course depends on the weather as is the case with all links courses. The greens are usually fast but in 2005 when measured by the conventional stimpmeter, the greens measured only 10.5 but the fairways were an astounding 11.5! Therein was the danger of running on and on into one of those nasty little bunkers. Natural "pot" style bunkers are everywhere and the players have to pilot their way around the course avoiding these sand traps, the majority of which aren't visible from the tees. In 2000 Tiger Woods played all 72 holes of the championship without ever going into a bunker. Last year American Stewart Cink won from 60 year old Tom Watson and Australian Matthew Goggin. There is no doubt that this is the biggest golf tournament in the world. As a prelude the R & A have invited back all past winners of the Open at St Andrews for a 4 hole challenge with the winning players prize money going to a nominated charity. Sadly, Seve Ballesteros is too ill to participate and Jack Nicklaus wasn't interested but all other living past champions will tee it up. In the main event Tiger is in his usual position as favourite but St Andrews can often throw up a roughie. This year could be the year of the Aussie. Kel Nagle won here in 1960 and Geoff Ogilvy could emulate that feat of maybe Mathew Goggin who came so close last year. We have 10 players going around but if one of them doesn't win I think the winner might come from Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood or Phil Mickelson.

NEW ZEALAND GOLF TOUR BOOKINGS
There are three seats still available with Sunraysia Golf Tours for the New Zealand Golf Tour from September 13-25. The cost of the tour out of Melbourne is $4195 and includes air fares, luxury accommodation, luxury coach travel, golf on six of the top 10 golf courses in New Zealand in motorised carts, picturesque Trans Alpine train trip through the South Island Alps and much much more. Bookings close next Wednesday. Itineraries are available from the Sunraysia Golf Range or phone Kym on 0408310532.

SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
With no scores from Red Cliff any one of six players were eligible for the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week. Seven better than handicap was the popular score with Alan Lay and Gwen Figg at Mildura, David Inglis at Coomealla, Helen Burke, Mike Jewitt and Linda Young at Riverside. As Linda Young was the only non winner (due to countback) at her club, she is the Round of the Week winner and must pick up her twelve Srixon Ladies Soft Feel golf balls by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range.

Contact me with your golf information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

06/07/10

COOMEALLA REIGN IN PENNANT
Coomealla Golf Club have definitely taken over the crown as kings of Sunraysia pennant from Mildura Golf Club after winning their third division one pennant in a row. Mildura had been the dominant force for more than twenty years but the NSW club now looks to be entrenched at the top of the ladder. Red Cliffs swapped their players around on Sunday and on paper would have been fairly confident when the team line ups were exchanged. Tyler Ver beek was Red Cliffs key player and he held up his part of the deal easily accounting for Troy Neville. This left the undefeated Justin McPhee to continue his dominance when he met Coomealla's best player Jacob Slimmon. Slimmon though, had other ideas and surprised the long hitting McPhee by bombing it past him off the tee and eventually beating him convincingly with five holes to spare. Slimmon has come of age as a top liner this year, which should stand him in good stead for Country Week in September. Top Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker was the other hope of the club but he met the wily Leigh Fuller who was too good on the day and probably taught the youngster a lesson in matchplay along the way. Travis Probert finished all square with Coomealla's Sean Baumgurtel in a fine performance. Probert hasn't featured at all in the past and could have been the difference if one of his team's two top players had won. Coomealla junior Ryan Laird was too good for Tony Wright who is also a new comer to district pennant. If Red Cliffs can source one or two more top players then they could be the champions next year but they should be well pleased with their efforts in 2010. In division two Mildura were always going to have the advantage over Broken Hill on their home turf and that is how it unfolded. Merbein are our smallest club but many would argue - with the biggest hearts. Great performance to win division three with Peter McGaffin outstanding all season. In division four Riverside's Rob Garioch got up over Coomealla's John Sheehy on the 36th hole. This was a great win for Riverside and devastating for the Coomealla boys. Overall district pennant is still the best game you can play - golf wise. Next year some wise heads need to get together to make the playing arrangements better organised but it's the players that make games great and provide the stories that will be talked about for years to come. Well done to all players but particularly to Coomealla, Mildura, Merbein and Riverside.
The next big event is the 36 hole Sunraysia District Golf Association Championships at Mildura Golf Club Resort on July 23-24. Let's hope that this 36 hole tournament will be booked out. Any Mildura member who is unable to play both days are eligible to play at any other club over that weekend and only pay the club competition fee, as per association rules. This provides those people with an opportunity to play at another course and opens up more timeslots for district players for the 36 hole event.

IAN DICKASON - RIVERSIDE'S QUIET ACHIEVER
Sometimes people of great significance within a golf club are people that the average club member would least suspect. At Riverside Golf Club Ian Dickason is one such man. Ian first joined Riverside in 1978 when he came to Mildura in his employment with Westpac Bank. He first joined the committee in 1983 but several years later he was transferred with the bank and didn't return to Mildura until 1989. From day one at the club though, he struck up a friendship with Peter Holland who used to take junior clinics for the club. Ian assisted Peter and finally took over the clinics himself in 1996 from Greg Slatter who had taken them for two years. Effectively Ian has had a hand in junior development at the club for over thirty years and has seen hundreds of children come and go, many of whom have gone on to become very good golfers. My wife Kym, who worked in the on course golf shop from 1994-2006 used to have a giggle at Ian's no nonsense approach with the kids, who could be, in some cases, difficult to manage. Ian still takes the clinics every Sunday morning come rain, hail or shine. Whilst his contribution in junior development is quite significant it is his work as the club treasurer for 13 years that is perhaps equal to any commitment that I have seen at any golf club in Sunraysia. Riverside, like many other clubs, has had a fairly up and down history, due to floods, droughts and all sorts of things that can affect a golf clubs existence. Through the 90's up to 2006 Ian Dickason guided the club through a financial minefield, during which time six new greens and a brand new watering system was implemented and paid for. Ian went backwards and forwards to the bank getting loan extensions and chasing any grants that were available. Ian implemented a debenture scheme where 36 members put in $1000 each and received discounted memberships. All but six have had their contribution repaid but that $36,000 was probably worth double to triple in what it saved the club at the time. Yesterday Ian recounted some of the events and people who have helped Riverside survive and prosper. "It is always difficult as a treasurer to keep everyone happy. You make a budget at the start of the year and within three months it is blown out the window due to equipment failures, repairs and often replacements. Through adversity though, comes lots of positives and I believe that many of the problems that the club has endured has made Riverside a better and stronger club. We were able to install a new watering system mainly due to the help of John Stephenson's son David who, as manager of Sarnia Fruit Co-operative assisted us with the purchase of equipment and product needed to proceed. Following on with the installation we had people of the calibre of Ken Ellery and Gary Kerr who spent hundreds of hours on the project. Naturally there were many others who also assisted but Ken and Gary were unbelievable for the club. Riverside is on crown land so we have a few more constraints than say a Red Cliffs or Mildura who own their land but through all the red tape we have continued to give local golfers and visitors a lovely place to play golf". Ian has seen lots or really good people at the club over the years and mentioned a few who stood out. Old "Haggus" Don McKay was a real Riverside character, Don McGregor a gentleman, Jim Henshilwood a terrific bloke, Graham Gardiner and Gary Ford great greenkeepers and Mick Innes a legend with unreal golfing ability. Brendan Mahar is doing a fantastic job as greenkeeper at present and when the two new greens are opened up later in the year, the course will just about be back to it's best ever condition". Ken Ellery was president during Ian Dickason's period as treasurer and couldn't speak highly enough of Dickason's efforts - saying. "Ian Dickason is a great Riverside person, when he took over as treasurer he stabilized the financial position of the club and for the first time, everyone knew where we were, financially. He was a terrific treasurer. On top of all that he did in the treasurers position, he was a darn good golfer as well, how many blokes have beaten Greg Rhodes in Pennant?".
Sometimes when committees change over year after year, new people to the club are unaware of what has happened and who made it happen prior, this is a great pity. Ian Dickason is not a person to seek any recognition, it's just not his personality, he's a quiet achiever, but he is one Riverside member most deserving of all accolades.

SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Scores from district golf clubs reflected the wintry conditions with the majority of golfers satisfied with playing within reach of their handicaps. At Coomealla Jenny Sheehy and Gary Cotter (welcome back) both recorded 43 points as did Andrew Hill and John Kennedy at Riverside. Second best round of the week was Nick Curnow at Mildura who had a 65 nett but one of Riverside's prodigal sons returned to the fold last week. Former club champion and Country Week representative Paul Mitchell had a day out with a score of 45 points on his new handicap of 9 and wins the Sunraysia Golf Range - Round of the Week.. Good to see Paul back playing after a few years out of the game, he wins one dozen Srixon Soft Feel golf balls that must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range by this Friday.

Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiadaily.com.au
Good golfing to all.

22/06/10

RED CLIFFS ON A ROLL IN PENNANT
Red Cliffs Golf Club are firing on all cylinders after remaining undefeated in the Sunraysia District Golf Association's division one pennant. Round four at Riverside saw a cut throat contest with the boys from Broken Hill. The Broken Hill team took the clash very seriously and travelled down on Saturday morning, so as to play at Riverside in the afternoon and get a feel for the course. Tim Walker delivered the final blow to the Broken Hill team when he defeated their club champion Trevor Henderson at the 16th after Tyler Ver beek and Travis Probert had secured victories. Justin McPhee and Tony Wright further strengthened the win when they both got home in their matches at one and two. Red Cliffs will now face Coomealla at home in the last round this Sunday. Tim Walker will accompany Coomealla's Ryan Laird to Melbourne to contest the Victorian Junior Championship, making them unavailable for pennant. Coomealla could end the winning run of Red Cliffs, even on their home turf. Red Cliffs best chance of winning will be in how they set up their match ups and will hope for a positive result from the Russian roulette tactic of the "Red Cliffs shuffle".
In division two Mildura Golf Club are looking invincible at the top of the table. Mildura's opponent in the final the following week will come from either Broken Hill or Riverside. Broken Hill lost to Riverside on Sunday and must beat Coomealla this week whilst Riverside will meet Red Cliffs who should perform better at home. The NSW combination look to be the only probable club representatives in the final contest at Mildura on July 4. Merbein are already in the final in division three and they will meet the winners of the Mildura - Coomealla contest this week with Mildura looking to have the upper hand. In division four the ladder top two in Coomealla and Red Cliffs meet and third and fourth placed Riverside and Mildura Gold clash. This division is the most open but perhaps the final two might remain Coomealla and Red Cliffs with Riverside just missing out on percentage. Next week's 19th hole will preview all four finals and examine who were the season's top individual performers in each division.

NOEL PUGSLEY - THE GODFATHER OF MILDURA GOLF CLUB
When one thinks of Mildura Golf Club Resort and who has had the biggest influence on the club over the last thirty years, one name stands out - Noel Pugsley. Noel first began playing at Mildura in the summer of 1956 between football seasons with Imperials. He started playing regularly around 1960 and joined the committee in 1968. Noel continued on the committee for over twenty years, three as President but seventeen as Senior Vice President where he assisted in the development of scores of people who joined the committee in various roles. Mildura Golf Club developed a wonderful system where members served as Vice Captain then Captain, Junior Vice President and finally President. This meant an understanding of the values, structures and traditions of the club continued through it's officers. Mildura Golf Club were the first regional golf club to develop a motel complex in the 70's when a number of Melbourne businessmen including television personalities Ron Casey and Lou Richards built the 40 unit Motel. Two swimming pools attracted families to the resort and women began accompanying their partners to the club for golf and social events. In a sense, Mildura became the "trendsetters" of Victorian golf. The Motel really gave the golf club a shot in the arm both financially and from an awareness and exposure perspective in other regions. Events such as Golf Week prospered as Mildura became the social hub for most of the social activities. Noel Pugsley was always at the forefront of any development or imitative that concerned the club. For many years he wrote the golf club notes for the Sunraysia Daily and has kept a scrapbook which chronicles the who, what, when and where of Mildura Golf Club. In many ways he has virtually become the club historian. Yesterday he reminisced about the "good old days". "It has been a really wonderful experience to be involved at Mildura Golf Club for so long. My greatest enjoyment has come from watching so many people enjoy the facilities of the club. I love it when I drive into the club and see the car park full of cars. Our club provides something unique that cannot be understated. I have always enjoyed seeing our juniors progress on and become not only very good golfers but also very good people. Through the years we have staged some terrific golf events and tournaments including exhibitions with golfing greats such as Bruce Devlin, Bruce Crampton and later on Guy Wolstenholme. In the pro-ams of the 80's we hosted US Masters champion V J Singh, Australian Open winners Craig Parry and Wayne Riley and a host of other big names such as Billy Dunk who held more course records in Australia than anyone". Noel has played too many rounds to pin point his best but only last Month he came in with eight shots better than his handicap to win the daily competition with 44 points. "I got down to an 11 handicap many years ago and played to it for some time, along the way I had some success in the B grade championship and later on D grade but moreover I just love playing the game and being involved at the club. These days I still manage to play four times a week". It is often said that you only get out of something what you put in but Noel Pugsley has put in plenty and in terms of satisfaction and enjoyment he has certainly drunk his fill. In Arabian mythology a "roc" is a bird of enormous size and strength and it is fair to say that in terms of contribution and commitment, Noel Pugsley has been Mildura Golf Club's roc.

THE LUCK OF THE IRISH IN US OPEN
Graeme McDowell is the toast of Ireland after capturing the 110th US Open at Pebble Beach on Sunday. The feature of the tournament was no doubt the beautiful scenery the surrounded the golf course. Jack Neville real estate salesman designed the golf course in 1919 for Samuel FB Morse who was the grand-nephew if the inventor of Morse code. In 1936 the Bing Crosby Pro-Am signalled the birth of pro-ams and was held annually at Pebble Beach which is situated 190 klm's from San Francisco. The exquisite beauty of Pebble Beach has seen it described as the most beautiful golf course in the world. Last week it played like the hardest with no player finishing under par for the 72 holes. McDowell who won the Wales Open at his previous start finished at even par and put his win down to the hard work he had done on his short game. Runner-up Frenchman Gregory Havret who was rated 391 in world rankings was a breath of fresh air in the post game interview when he said "I had to hole a 50 foot putt in the 36 hole qualifying just to get in the field. To go from there to playing the last round of the US Open with the best player in the world ( Tiger Woods) is just incredible. I am disappointed I didn't win but so pleased with how I played". South Africa's Ernie Els looked likely to win for most of the last round but McDowell simply outstayed and outplayed everyone one else. Woods, Mickelson and third round leader Dustin Johnson provided the highlights but the Europeans took home the silverware and the majority of the cash. The next big event is the British Open at St Andrews in July when an Australian will win, but which one will it be?

SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
There were some great rounds returned on district golf courses over the last week. No less than eleven people could easily have won the Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week, but there can be only one winner. Coomealla had Sandra Hunt with 65 nett equalling Judy Dean at Red Cliffs and Winston Easterbrook and Mike Jewitt at Riverside on + 7's. Pauline Pippin and Lirlene Crozier at Riverside were one behind their male counterparts in Kevin Ransom 63 and Rob Arnold on +9. Wentworth's ladies championships produced the really outstanding scores. Eunice Stephens had a fine 62 nett but Denise Ferguson's 87 nett 61 really claimed the limelight! Denise can pick up her prize of one dozen Srixon Soft Feel golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range by 6pm this Friday.

Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

16/6/10

GOLF GALORE IN SUNRAYSIA
Over 1700 rounds of golf were played on Sunraysia's golf courses over the Queens Birthday weekend. Coomealla hosted almost 500 players including visiting golfers from 30 different golf clubs for it's Golf Extravaganza Weekend. The events included a 9 hole "warm up" event on Friday, Teams Challenge on Saturday, Holden Scramble on Sunday and a closing medley stableford on Monday. The main event was the 19th Annual Holden Scramble which was won by Ashley Whitehouse, James Murphy, Jason Hartley and Jason Williams. Riverside hosted many folk who returned to the club for it's 75 year celebration. Highlight of the weekend from a golfing perspective was the score of 53 points by Darren Gray and former club captain Chris O'Brien on Sunday. At Red Cliffs the Golden Putter attracted a good field where the men's winners were Graham Lohmeyer and Gary Wright on +12 and for the ladies Kath Cattanach and Sandra Marwood also on +12 took home the much sought after flat sticks. The June Monthly Medal was played at Mildura whilst Klemm's Day was the main feature over at Wentworth and a fourball at Merbein.
PENNANT AT RIVERSIDE THIS SUNDAY
Riverside Golf Club will host what promises to be a most interesting round four of district pennant this Sunday. In division one Red Cliffs and Broken Hill meet with the winner assured of a spot in the final against Coomealla at Mildura on July 4th. Broken Hill have not been as impressive this year whereas Red Cliffs have been very good. Junior players in Tyler Ver beek and Tim Walker have stepped up to the plate and newcomer Tony Wright has been a welcome addition. Captain Justin McPhee has been a tower of strength and is a virtual shoe in each week. Red Cliffs should win on form. In division two Broken Hill and Mildura will qualify for the final if they can win on Sunday against Riverside and Coomealla, otherwise it will be still up for grabs at Red Cliffs in the last round. In division three Merbein are the stand out performer with Coomealla, Mildura and Broken Hill all level on points. Coomealla look to be best placed to face Merbein in the final at this stage. In division four Coomealla and Red Cliffs meet this week in what should be a look at the the two finalists on current form.
ALAN SCORER - COOMEALLA GOLF CLUB
This week Alan Scorer from the Coomealla Golf Club is the subject of our series on significant contributors to Sunraysia golf clubs. Alan first became aware of the Coomealla Golf Club when he took up a teaching post in Broken Hill in 1986. Several teachers and their wives travelled down to Mildura for the wives to relax and shop and the men to play golf and have a taste of the local brew. Yesterday he recalled his first impressions of a club he has come to love " We used to come down from the Hill and play at Riverside and Coomealla and when a job at Coomealla High School became available I said to my wife Lorraine, it would be good to get that job because Coomealla had a really good golf course. Lorraine liked the idea of living in Mildura so I applied for the second in charge job under Phil Streatfeild, who I had worked with in Sydney. We moved to Mildura in 1992". Alan became vice captain in 1998-99 and then took over the captaincy at the club from Trevor Carroll in 2005 through to 2009. During this time the Coomealla Golf Club dropped it's subscription fees and the Saturday fields went from of 70-80 to 120-140. Alan Scorer bought his own brand of humour to the position, particularly at the daily trophy presentations, which kept everyone's interest. "I like to think that we reintroduced the noble art of sledging around this time, especially after Mal Williams introduced the electronic leaderboard. There is a distinct art in inadvertently mentioning in a loud voice that one of your golfing mates has just returned a nett 86. There can be no hiding as it is up there on the screen for all to see". During the last 18 years Alan has met and befriended many wonderful people at Coomealla including some of the club's real characters. "Ripper Nichols is a great Coomealla person, club president in two stints and terrific to play golf with, even though his golf is less than good. Vin Byrnes is a fellow I always find worth listening to and Ross Robertson has been terrific for the club and a great back up for me. Trevor Carroll has also played an important role within the club. Gwen and Frank Geyer have worked tirelessly for the club as has Gwenda Albion. Mal Williams though, has been the real quiet achiever. The work that he has done at the Coomealla Golf Club has been phenomenal and our leaderboard system would be second to none, it would never have been possible without Mal". Two events that will always be synonymous with the name Scorer are the Stableford Shootout and the Coomealla Senior Open. "I first saw the stableford shootout advertised at the Dubbo Golf Club where we go every Easter. It seemed like a good format for a tournament and although they do it bigger at Dubbo, I think ours has been good for our club. The Senior open came after reading about similar events in the Golfing Victoria magazine. I contacted the VGA and it has become a very successful event on the Senior calendar". Through the years Alan has played with and observed lots of golfersat Coomealla, some really good and some not so good, but one has stood out. "Greg Rhodes is the best amateurgolfer I've ever seen. He is such a nice bloke as well. Lars Holden
was great in his time at the club. I loved Lars, he had an infectious exuberance that rubbed off on everyone he met". Alan stepped down from the Captaincy this year but he is always helping out around the club in some capacity and although he has played off a single figure handicap for over twenty years, one of his most endearing legacies is his compassion and understanding of golfers, irrespective of how high or low their golf handicaps are. Not everyone who takes on a position of responsibility can make a difference - Alan Scorer is certainly one man who has made a significant difference at the Coomealla Golf Club.
US OPEN AT PEBBLE BEACH
This Friday morning the 110th US Open will hit off at Pebble Beach. As is usual the story begins with Tiger Woods. Woods won the 100th US Open at Pebble Beach by an amazing 15 strokes from Ernie Els, coming in 12 under par (276). Winner of the 1986 US Open at Pebble Beach, Tom Watson described the performance at the time as the greatest ever. This week Woods is favourite again but his recent form is nowhere near as good as when he won in 2000 which just happened to be his fourth major in a row. Woods will partner Els and Lee Westwood who won for the first time in the US on Sunday. There are twelve Aussies playing in the tournament with Adam Scott, Robert Allenby and Geoff Ogilvy all playing together for the first two rounds. Phil Mickelson is yet to win a US Open and he will partner Padraig Harrington and Y E Yang for the first two days. Pebble Beach has many wonderful holes including the shot 107 yard par 3 7th. In the 1992 Open there only one player in the last 30 hit the green in regulation on the final day. Tom Kite won that day at one under par. Pebble Beach is a public course but it costs around $600 to play it, which off the back tees on this course for the average golfer is roughly $4.80 a shot! I like the chances of Ricky Barnes, Ian Poulter or our own Aaron Baddeley.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
Four ball's and Ambrose's dominated proceedings at most clubs last week however, some good scores came in from Riverside, Mildura, Coomealla and Red Cliffs. John Hobbs had a day out in the Monthly Medal at Mildura with a 64nett whilst out at Red Cliffs Sue Kircher racked up 44 points. At Riverside the "Duke" Les Earle had 45 points and at Coomealla former club Captain and President Frank Martin also had 45 points. It is hard to separate such good scores but last week the Riverside man got the nod, so this weeks Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week goes to Coomealla's Frank Martin who must pick up one dozen Nike High Performance golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range by this Friday.
Contact me with any golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

9/6/10

COOMEALLA TAKE CONTROL
Round three of district pennant moved to Wentworth Golf Club on Sunday and Coomealla took care of Mildura's chances of making the final. Coomealla look to be too strong with the addition of former Country Week player Troy Neville. Neville has been back at Coomealla for two years and has been playing great golf off a handicap of three. Always known for his long hitting he has developed a deft short game and is a much more mature golfer than the one who went to go to Howlong over ten years ago. With Mildura out of the road only Red Cliffs remain as a challenger to the strong NSW unit. On Sunday Mildura welcomed the return of Ashley Whitehouse who defeated Ryan Laird 3/2. Cameron Stewart had a titanic contest with Troy Neville which ended at the 22nd and a win to Mildura. Coomealla comfortably took the other three matches with Jacob Slimmon, Leigh Fuller and Sean Baumgurtel whose previous week rib injury had subsided all recording victories. Early season teenage sensation Jake Laubsch who achieved a scratch handicap at 16 years of age has decided not to take part in pennant and looks to have lost direction with his golf. This is a real pity because when he is focussed and on his game he can really play. Troy Neville, who first played at Country Week as a 16 year old, would now appear to be a fine alternative for the Country Week team as most people assumed that Jake would walk straight into the team this year. In division two Mildura went down to Broken Hill after their team lost two players to division one. This has opened up this division with Broken Hill the standout and Mildura and Riverside vying for the second final berth. In division three Merbein appear to be the clear leaders from Broken Hill. In division four Red Cliffs, Coomealla and Mildura Gold will fight it out for the top two spots. This week pennant will recess and recommence on June 20th at Riverside.
BEV CETINICH - MERBEIN GOLF CLUB
In the coming weeks the 19th hole will feature people in golf who have made significant contributions to their club. This week we look at Bev Cetinich from the Merbein Golf Club. Bev joined Merbein Golf Club in 1975 and has held various positions on the committee during this period including treasurer and ladies captain. In many ways she has been the face of the club for the last fifteen years. Working behind the bar and greeting visitors on open days, she has always been quick to make everyone feel welcome and is never backward in coming forward if the men get a bit rowdy. Last week she won the ladies club championship for the ninth time and for the fifth year in a row. Merbein doesn't have a big membership base but their ladies have always been a strong part of the club. At one stage during it's proud history the record books show that for at least one year the associates outnumbered the members. Bev recently reminisced about the "old days" when the clubhouse "used to rock" during a club social. "We used to have some terrific dances, people would stay on after golf for tea. Ron Sylvia (Alf's brother) would get to work on his piano and everyone would kick up their heels. The clubhouse was quite often full to the brim at these functions and everyone had a great time. When .05 came in the social functions dropped off, as was the case in a lot of clubs. Merbein has had some great people over the years including Alf Sylvia who was captain for twelve years. Alf knew everyone in Merbein through his association with football, cricket and golf. Col Lang was our treasurer for twelve years and did a great job for the club. Ian Foreman was club champion twenty one times which must be a local record. Through the years some great Merbein names in the community have been members at Merbein including the McCarthy's, McCleary's, Webster's, Doering's, Ellis's, Dickies, Blaby's and a host of others too numerous to mention. There have been lots of really good juniors who began their golf at Merbein including Lars Holden, Brendan Rowse, Darren and Gray Foreman and most recently Tyler Verbeek". Bev Cetinich loves the Merbein golf club and laughed when it was recently suggested to her that when she died they would scatter her ashes around the course. She has always scoffed at suggestions that the club will cease to exist at some stage and said "the club has always soldiered on in good times and bad. The doomsayers are always saying that we are all but finished but they are wrong. We love our club and the camaraderie that exists is great to be involved with". People like Bev Cetinich are a dying breed in clubs like Merbein Golf Club where the work is spread amongst a small few. People these have become busier and less willing to commit to committees and positions of responsibility. Every club though, seems to have their "characters" and it is fair to say that Bev is one of the real characters of substance of the Merbein Golf Club. Merbein Ladies will welcome all district ladies to their 2010 Open tournament on Saturday June 19th.
LADIES CHAMPIONSHIPS IN FULL SWING
Red Cliffs ladies club championships saw Julie McEwan who has played little golf recently take a commanding lead after 36 holes. Red Cliffs tried out a new format this year playing round one on Wednesday and round two on Saturday. Julie had 87-85 to have another championship shot to pieces. Tireless club servant Lee Bowring looks set to take out the scratch and handicap in B grade. No surprise that Sue Laird is the clubhouse leader at Coomealla with an 81 but only three strokes back is district stalwart Jill Forster who bettered her handicap by eight strokes with an 84. Lorraine Palmer is the leader at Riverside with an 86 with only Marg Lampard on 87 considered a threat. Mildura began their championships yesterday
GREAT GOLF IN WALES
For the late night golfing viewer the golf was exhilarating in the Celtic Manor Wales Open last weekend. Walton Heath will be the venue for the 27th Ryder Cup from October 1-3 and the Wales Open provided a great peek at what the course has to offer. This will be one of the great Ryder Cups as the golf course has so many risk/reward holes that are so conducive to great matchplay golf. In the last round on Sunday three players bettered par by eight shots or better. Northern Ireland's Graham McDowell all but wrote his name into the European Ryder Cup team when he came from the clouds to win by three strokes from Rhys Davies after a last round 63. McDowell was four shots behind overnight leader Germany's Marcel Siem who crashed with a 74 but trailed Wales home town hero Davies who had a 62 for most of the day. McDowell has had four albatrosses in his professional career and his iron play on Sunday was simply laser like. Over on the US Tour, England's Justin Rose won for the first time in America at Jack Nicklaus's Memorial Tournament. Rose first came to prominence when as an amateur when he came fourth in the British Open in 1998. On Sunday he overtook teenage American sensation Rickie Fowler who was four strokes in front to win by three shots. One of the best names on the US PGA Tour is Bo Van Pelt and he finished in third place.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This week the scores are a little higher than in previous weeks with Coomealla's Jill Forster and Neil Bryant and Riverside's Lirlene Crozier and Don McMaster all bettering their handicaps by eight shots. After tossing a coin it came down Don McMaster as he probably won't reach such lofty heights again! Don wins one dozen Nike High Performance golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range and must pick them up by Friday.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolf tours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

2/5/10

SDGA PENNANT BEGINS AT BROKEN HILL
The first and second rounds of the Sunraysia District Golf Association winter pennant was played in cold wet conditions at Broken Hill Golf and Country Club at the weekend. Last year there was much hype and anticipation with Broken Hill coming into the association. This year, to a certain extent it would appear that the honeymoon period is over with the reality of the tyranny of distance having it's effect as a number of players in most grades made themselves unavailable for the long trip. With the withdrawal of Wentworth from division one a new draw was hurriedly produced with the home club given a bye on the second day. The whole idea last year of playing two rounds at Broken Hill was to lessen the travel burden on that club, so giving them a bye baffled most people. Broken Hill would appear to be weaker this year if they couldn't beat Coomealla on Saturday on their home track. Coomealla effectively only had four players after team captain Sean Baumgurtel's retired hurt (after four holes) including 60 year old Peter Keher who was bought into the team from division two at late notice. Keher who is originally from Broken Hill played at number one and won his Broken Hill clash but lost to Riverside's Steve Wilmann on Sunday. The district's peak inter club competition began on the weekend with some of our top players missing, including Greg Rhodes who isn't playing pennant this year, Ashley Whitehouse unavailable due to work commitments, Jake Laubsch who had a family function, Tim Petersen retired, Trevor Henderson, Broken Hill injured back. Another Country Week player and Coomealla captain Sean Baumgurtel lasted only four holes on Saturday due to a rib injury received during a football match the previous week, he retired hurt and promptly went straight back to Mildura leaving his team to play one short on Sunday. Coomealla won both matches against Broken Hill and Riverside, on paper they would seem to still be the pennant favourites. Mildura though, loom as the team to beat if Whitehouse and Laubsch make themselves available in the next three matches. If Mildura has the two Stewarts, Whitehouse and Laubsch it is a strong unit. For Coomealla Leigh Fuller is a top performer, Jacob Slimmon is getting better all the time, add in junior Ryan Laird and a fit Baumgurtel and it will be a tight contest at Wentworth this Sunday. Red Cliffs performed very well winning both contests against Riverside and a weakened Mildura. Justin McPhee is having a good year and classy juniors Tim Walker and Tyler Verbeek are stepping up but all three need to win each week which is a tough assignment, they have the bye this week. Riverside is struggling with very few low handicappers but it is fair to say that they embrace pennant with much gusto and club spirit. Broken Hill have the opportunity to get a win on the board against Riverside this week. In division two Mildura have emerged as the team to beat after two strong performances at the Hill against Red Cliffs and Riverside. The Mildura team includes two players off 5 and two players off 7 handicaps. In division three where six teams are involved, Merbein and Broken Hill won both contests and appear on track for the final. In division four Coomealla and Red Cliffs both recorded two victories. Robinvale will commence their campaign in this division at Wentworth on Sunday but will need to win all three remaining contests to make the final.
LADIES CHAMPIONSHIPS
Most district clubs begin their ladies championships this week including Coomealla, Riverside and Red Cliffs. Favourites include Sue Laird at Coomealla, Marg Lampard at Riverside and Sally Jones at Red Cliffs. Ladies golf is going very well at most District clubs with another successful pennant season just completed last week. The introduction of a lot of new faces in ladies golf should lift the enthusiasm of the championships this year. The changeover at national and state level is not far off with the men's and ladies associations joining together to run golf. It will be most interesting to see what transpires if and when the NWWG and SDGA combine to run golf in Sunraysia.
TIGER RETURNS IN THE MEMORIAL
Tiger Woods makes another comeback this week in the Jack Nicklaus Memorial tournament at Muirfield Village Golf Club in Ohio. Woods hasn't played since he withdrew midway through the last round of the players championship at Sawgrass last month with a neck injury. Whenever he plays the hype of the tournament increases ten fold. Ernie Els has been the top player on the PGA Tour this year followed by Jim Furyk, Phil Mickelson and Anthony Kim. Thirteen Australians will line up at Muirfield this week including Robert Allenby who is 7th in the standings Fed Ex Cup, Adam Scott at 20th and Geoff Ogilvy who is coming 22nd. The Memorial is regarded as one of the biggest events on the US tour simply because it is "Jack's" tournament and the American golfers and indeed public adore Jack Nicklaus. The US Open at Pebble Beach is only two weeks away and all of the top players in the world will be trying to get their game ready for the second "Major" where Woods has dominated at that venue in the past. This is a stellar year with the US Open at Pebble Beach and the British Open at St Andrews. If Woods is going to add to his Major tally then these are two of his favourite courses and for the first time in six months the headlines might be about his golf game instead of other pursuits.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND of the WEEK
This week's Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week was keenly contested with the winter conditions bringing most scores back closer to where players aren't smashing their handicaps as much. Merbein's Clive Knudsen, Riverside's Garry Sharman, Kevin Ransome and Tony Petrac all bettered their mark by six shots. Mildura's Joe Cifti and Coomealla's Tim Plumridge were seven shots up but at Riverside relative newcomer Marty Scott was this week's star performer with nett 64. Marty can collect his prize of one dozen Nike Power Distance golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

26/5/10

BYWATERS WINS 2010 TRI-STATE MASTERS
Victor Harbor golfer Peter Bywaters won the 18th Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters by four strokes at Mildura Golf Club Resort last Friday from Cranbourne's Steve McPherson. Bywaters began the last round three stokes ahead and was never seriously challenged until faltering only slightly over the closing holes. The win this year was even sweeter after he was disqualified last year due to a rules transgression in the first round. At the closing presentation dinner he said " I have been coming to Mildura for eight years trying to win the Tri-State Masters. I'm really excited to have finally pulled it off. My wife Maureen and I travel all over Australia playing in seniors golf events but this was the one that I really wanted to win. I am now looking forward to defending my title next year". Maureen who caddies for her husband in every tournament doesn't play herself but has really enjoyed their golfing life together since Peter retired from the Army.They will return to Mildura in September for the Coomealla Senior Championship. After moving to Melbourne from Adelaide three years ago they have recently returned to South Australia, building a house at Victor Harbor. The majority of their time however, is spent in their caravan as they travel from State to State following the golf circuit.
McPherson, who was runner up for the second year in a row had been a regular golfing partner to Bywaters over the last three years at Cranbourne Golf Club. Tony Romania from Rosebud Country Club was the Senior champion this year and amused his playing partners no end with his frequent calls of "run Forest run" to his golf ball after he hit it. Werribee Park's Bill Gray won the B grade championship, collecting his first ever trophy in eighteen years of trying. Everything came together for the wee Scotsman who hasn't missed the event since it's inception in 1993. Dominic Bonaddio from the Heritage golf club in Melbourne won the A grade handicap section. Kiama's Mike Alexander who only recently moved to Australia from Masterton in New Zealand was the top veteran with Drouin's Eric Robbins the best super veteran. Sue Laird easily won her fourth consecutive ladies championship from Mornington's Sue Evans. Laird was never pushed at any stage and is looking to continue her dominance next year. Winning ladies in other sections this year included Jenny Jeffreys Portsea, Catherine Power Mildura, Rose Alexander Kiama, Yvonne West Grange SA and 80 year old super veteran Elaine Jackson from Yarrawonga who had 121 stableford points, equalling the best points score of the tournament. In the teams event Elaine and Arthur Jackson combined with John and Pat Cook from Yarrawonga to record an aggregate 411 stableford points, winning them six nights at the brand new Quest Serviced Apartments in Mildura when they play in the 2011 Tri-State Masters. There were no holes in one this year but Royal Melbourne golfer Jane Derham won the nearest to the pin for the ladies and for the men, New Zealand, Wellington and Manor Park golf club all featured in the presentation speech to Paul Gueorgieff. Gueorgieff was playing for the fifth year and very generously provided two sets of trophies for the tournament. As fate would have it, it was decided to alot his trophies to the NTP for men and women for the week. A different trophy was then chosen when he won for the men! A putting championship was conducted on the 50 metre putting green at the Sunraysia Golf Range resulting in victories to Wodonga's Jenny Gill and Kiama's Mike Alexander. Next year the 19th Tri-State Masters will be conducted from Sunday May 15 to Friday May 20.
CAMERON STEWART ON TOP AT ROBINVALE
Mildura golfer Cameron Stewart won the 2010 Robinvale Open on Sunday by eight shots from club mate Maurice Warn. Stewart played consistently recording two 73's on the tight Robinvale circuit. This year he hasn't performed to his usual standard but recently he has been working hard on his game and the win on Sunday shows that he is almost back to his best. Warn was only one shot behind on his former home course but could not maintain the pressure in the afternoon round coming in with an 80. Robinvale is the only club that plays both rounds on the one day as all clubs once did, which is a tough task for the more senior competitors. Former club champion Glenn Marr was third with rounds of 77-78 followed by Steele Denman 81-79 and Adrian Matthews 83-74. A ladies 18 hole event was won by Michelle Fumberger who had 75. Interestingly she holds a 2 handicap for ladies golf and a men's 6 handicap for male competitions. Best handicap score of the day came from Red Cliffs Ray Stone. Robinvale golf club didn't run an Open tournament in 2008 and had only 29 players last year so they were pleased with the field of 40 on Sunday. The golf course is holding up well and the fields are on the improve. Whilst plans for an on course Motel have unfortunately been put on the back burner there is talk of some on course cabins being built in the near future. The last 36 hole Open tournament for 2010 will be the Sunraysia District Golf Association tournament at Mildura Golf Club Resort on July 24-25.
COOMEALLA FAVOURITES FOR 2010 SDGA PENNANT
The Sunraysia District Golf Association will commence it's 2010 pennant competition this weekend in Broken Hill. This year there will be four divisions and for the first time all eight clubs will be represented in at least one grade. Unfortunately Wentworth withdrew it's nominated division one team at the last moment on Sunday leaving that division with a bye. Coomealla again look the team to beat but Broken Hill who were runners up last year could be the bolters. No one from Broken Hill has appeared in any of the local Open tournaments so it is difficult to draw a form line on their players this year, they will be pleased that the Coomealla course is not on the draw roster this year. Very few if any of the Broken Hill boys seem to play anywhere near their handicaps at Coomealla. Mildura and Red Cliffs will be competitive but Riverside will struggle as they have very few low handicappers. In division two it is a different story with Riverside the dominant force from Broken Hill, Coomealla and Mildura with Red Cliffs relying on it's newer members. In division three Wentworth appear for the first time and will be the team to beat. The other five teams will be going hammer and tong against one another to get a shot at Wentworth in the final. In division four Robinvale re enter pennant, but only from round three as none of their players are willing to travel to Broken Hill, which is disappointing as it virtually gives them no chance of making the final unless they win the last three contests. New players to the club's pennant team include well performed players in Vern Morrish and Josh Bailey. Coomealla and the two Mildura teams would be looking stronger in this grade purely from a numbers available perspective but you never know in matchplay golf. There could be some interesting developments between the teams when pennant is played at Riverside and Red Cliffs who have both indicated that they will charge a one dollar water levy on all pennant players when their courses are used for pennant this year. Perhaps the easiest way to overcome any resentment between the players and clubs is to ask all players to put in a dollar to the SDGA at each venue and then have the SDGA distribute it as it sees fit. This year the SDGA have decided that the top two teams in each division will play a 36 hole final at the Mildura Golf Club Resort on Sunday July 4th.
SCOTT AND DAY LOVE GOLF IN TEXAS
Adam Scott won the Texas Open in San Antonio last week and Jason Day gave Australia and Queenland two in a row when he won the Byron Nelson in Irving Texas on Sunday. Twenty four Australians are playing on the US PGA Tour this year which is the biggest contingent of foreign golfers from another country by far. Whilst Adam Scott has probably been seen as the next big thing out of Australia over the last six years, it is Day at 22 years of age who most people are now looking at. Day reached a handicap of plus 6 as a teenager in Queensland and had everyone shaking their heads and wondering just how good was he going to be. After qualifying for the Nationwide Tour he became the youngest ever winner on that tour age age 19. Since then his upward spiral has tapered off somewhat. That was until Sunday. This week the Crowne Paza tournament will be played at the Colonial golf club in Fort Worth where Day lives and is a member. Last year he finished second to Steve Stricker by one shot going into the last round equal but shooting a 69 to Stricker's 68. Whilst few are suggesting he will win, it is a course he plays very well and he now has the confidence to keep the upward spiral escalating. Colonial golf club was first made famous as the golfing home of the great Ben Hogan. Day will now be spoken of with the Allenby's, Ogilvy's and Scott's when the American's point to the best on tour from Down Under.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
The Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week attracted several possible contenders including Linda Jakubans 65 nett at Wentworth, Trevor Carroll's 43 points at Coomealla, Tony Wright's 43 points at Red Cliffs and John Stephens 44 points at Wentworth. Linda Jakubans has been in top form at Wentworth with 46 points last week and nett 65 this week but Ron Gibson who had 46 points last week to lose on a countback at Wentworth to Linda also backed up with a nett 62 on Saturday to win one dozen Nike Power Distance golf balls for The Round of the Week.. Ron can pick up his new Nike's from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.

19/5/10

2010 TRI-STATE MASTERS OPEN AFFAIR
Coomealla golfer David Gardiner holds a one stoke lead after round one at Coomealla on Monday in the 2010 Tri-State Masters after returning an opening 79. Gardiner has been runner up in the tournament before but in ten years has never led the championship at any stage, until Monday. Gardiner has been a solid performer in district golf for a number of years playing division two pennant. His only game in division one pennant was against district number two player and former Tri-State Masters champion Ashley Whitehouse several years ago, which he won giving him an unbeaten record at the top level. On Monday he started well turning two over par but slipped a little around the back nine for a 41. Whilst there were some great scores from the other grades most players struggled on the slick Coomealla greens. Hot on Gardiner's tail are Tony Romania from Rosebud Country Club who began brilliantly with a one over par 37 but finished poorly with 43 and last year's Senior champion Graham McLellan also on 80. One shot is nothing in a 54 hole event and Berri today will provide another stern test. Other players still well in contention include pre tournament favourite Peter Bywaters from Victor Harbor 82, Cranbourne's Steve McPherson and Gisborne's Greg Burgmann who both had 83's. Paul Gueorgieff from the Manor Park Golf Club in Wellington New Zealand is still an outside chance five strokes back on 84. The best stableford score for the day in the men's grades came from Werribee Park's Billy Gray who is one of only two players who have played in every Tri-State Masters since it's inception in 1993.
In the ladies championship Sunraysia's top ladies golfer Sue Laird looks set to win her fourth consecutive Tri-State Masters title after returning a six over par 79. Laird turned in 39 which was two over par and looked set for a great score until she bogeyed the last two holes for a 40. Portsea's Jenny Jeffreys again struggled around Coomealla but said after the game " I love this golf course but I just can't put a score together here". Playing off three at Portsea in no easy feat but three double bogeys on Monday killed her score and she finished a little shell shocked after an 86. The top ten stableford scores came from ten of the 55 different golf clubs represented in the tournament. Tocumwal's Dianne Bright playing for her 10th year recorded her best ever score in the event with 43 points. Yarrawonga's Pat Cook had 41 as did Rose Alexander from the Kiama golf club in Sydney. Rose and her husband Michael moved to Sydney three years ago from Masterton in New Zealand and are playing in the event for the third year, along with six other fellow Masterton Golfers who play at the Mahunga golf club in Masterton, 100 klm from Wellington. Other clubs represented in the top ten ladies scores were Churchill Park, Renmark, Grange (SA), Bairnsdale, Mornington and Mildura. Yesterday a 4BBB was played at Coomealla whilst the second round of the championship is at Berri today, tomorrow an ambrose will be played at Mildura Golf Club Resort who will also host the final leg of the tournament on Friday.
RHODES TOO GOOD AT RED CLIFFS
Greg Rhodes returned to the winners podium at Red Cliffs Golf Club on Sunday when he won the 2010 Red Cliff Open by four shots. Rhodes has already won the Coomealla and Riverside Open's this year but had gone off the boil in the Mildura and Merbein Open's at the Mildura Golf Club Resort. Red Cliffs has not been his happiest hunting ground over the years but he still features more than anyone else on their Open honour board of past winners. On Saturday Rhodes led Coomealla's Leigh Fuller by 4 strokes with Sean Baumgurtel one shot back on 75. Justin McPhee couldn't get it going on his home track and came in on 78, one stroke better than Jake Laubsch. Ashley Whitehouse also struggled with an 81 to be completely out of contention. On Sunday Rhodes had 71 but he would have been impressed with Red Cliffs club champion Justin McPhee who blitzed around the course for a 67. Leigh Fuller was third after a closing par round of 72 which was exceptional because he has been a virtual golf hermit playing very little this year. Red Cliffs were happy with the field of just over 100 and were delighted with the positive comments from visiting players regarding the course. Naturally the comments regarding the Red Cliffs members were also very heartening but Red Cliffs Golf Club has always been known as "the friendly golf club". Next Sunday the 36 hole Robinvale Open will be the destination for district golfers and is the last of the local club Open's with only Broken Hill to come on July 17-18 and the Sunraysia District Golf Association Open to be held at Mildura Golf Club Resort on July 25-26. Rounds one and two of district pennant kicks off at Broken Hill on May 29-30.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This week there were a number of impressive scores that under the old handicapping system would have shot some handicaps to pieces. Alan Steedman, Gary Fyfe, Eunice Green, Shane Wilmore, Graham Lohmeyer, Chris Sibley and Roy Costa are all worthy of mention at seven better than their handicaps. Whilst those scores were very good Kevin Plain had 44 points at Wentworth as did Peter Nalder at Riverside. Coming in two shots behind when you are ten shots better than your handicap is unusual to say the least but at Wentworth Linda Jakubans and Ron Gibson both had 46 points and at Red Cliffs Michael Clifford had nett 62 on Saturday in the Open. It was at Coomealla where Michael Morral astounded everyone including himself when he returned 48 points on Saturday. That certainly is a round to remember and wins Michael one dozen Taylor Made XD golf balls that must be collected from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.

Red Cliffs Top 10 Top 10 Handicap
1 Greg Rhodes 141 1 Leigh Fuller A 138
2 Justin McPhee 145 2 David Filippi A 139
3 Leigh Fuller 146 3 Greg Young C 140
4 Troy Germaine 153 4 Shane Wilmore B 141
5 Jake Laubsch 154 4 Seb Raiti B 141
6 Ashley Whitehouse 154 4 Steve Johns C 141
7 Robert Veit 155 4 Greg McCubbin A 141
8 Tyler Verbeek 156 8 Damen Southgate A 142
9 David Filippi 159 9 Paul White A 143
10 Peter Dooley B 144

12/5/10

SLIMMON BREAKS THROUGH AT WENTWORTH
Coomealla golfer Jacob Slimmon shot 71-68 to win the 2010 Wentworth Open on Sunday by ten strokes from Red Cliff junior Tim Walker who had 79-70. The win has finally come after Slimmon has played some sensational golf over the last couple of years but he has been unable to put two really good rounds together. At Wentworth at the weekend he did and this could be just the break that he needs. Slimmon hits the ball a long way which gives him an advantage over most players but getting it in the hole is more important than distance alone. In recent years Coomealla members have become used to seeing Slimmon shoot 67's and 68's but when it has came to the big events he has struggled to reproduce that form. The first win is always the hardest, just look at South African Tim Clark who has won all over the world including the Australian Open. Clark won his first tournament on the US PGA Tour when he won the Tournament Players Championship at the weekend in his 204th US PGA Tour event. Slimmon can now confidently enter any event locally knowing the dreaded monkey is off his back, perhaps it could be the start of some really good performances. Whilst the field was not as strong at Wentworth as in the earlier Open's, due to Mothers Day on Sunday, you can only beat who you play against and the three under score compares most favourably with all other winning scores this year. Runner up Tim Walker has not played in many local Open's this year as he has been travelling to Melbourne each weekend to play junior colts pennant. Walker's second round one under par 70 won't do his country Week chances any harm but he will still need to perform well in local pennant to further push his case. This weekend Red Cliffs will open it's doors to district golfers for the 2010 Red Cliffs Open where Justin McPhee will start a warm favourite from Ashley Whitehouse and Greg Rhodes. Jacob Slimmon would also be well in contention but he will be interstate.
LAIRD AIMING AT FOURTH TRI-STATE MASTERS TITLE
Coomealla ladies club champion Sue Laird will need to be in her best form if she is to win her fourth consecutive Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters title next week. The tournament begins at Coomealla on Monday and follows on to Berri on Wednesday concluding at the Mildura Golf Club Resort on Friday. Laird has played consistently this year with a string of 78's and 79's but she is capable of much better. The Tri-State Masters seems to bring out the best in her as she has virtually been untroubled and remains unbeaten at three from three attempts. This year though, 2003-04-05 champion Jenny Jeffreys from Portsea Golf club has been in red hot form next to the sea. Last month she recorded two sub par rounds including a 71 then a three under par 69. These scores resulted in her handicap tumbling to 3. Jeffrey's has struggled somewhat in the last four years in Mildura but she is determined to turn the tables this year and be the first player to win four Tri-State Masters titles. In the men's section it promises to be a much more open contest with 2009 champion Steve Spooner playing less competitive golf this year. Cranbourne golfer Peter Bywaters appears to hold the inside running as he travels the countryside competing in seniors golf tournaments where he has had reasonable success this year. Gisborne's 5 handicapper Greg Burgmann is the equal low handicapper in the men's section and has had several rounds of 74 and 75 recently at Gisborne. Tony Romania from Rosebud Country Club could also feature on the leaders board. Nine people will arrive in Mildura on Saturday from Wellington and Masterton in New Zealand to participate in the tournament. Paul Gueorgieff from Manor Park Golf Club in Wellington and Graham Duckett from the Mahunga Golf Club in Masterton will receive five year player awards and follow on from Jim Christian from the Maungeakiekie Golf Club in Auckland who played in the tournament from 2004-2008. This represents a terrific commitment by the Kiwi's who are paying $1-45 New Zealand against our dollar to be here. Graham Duckett's son Lance became the first international winner of the tournament when he won in 2004. Since 2000 almost fifty players from New Zealand have participated in the event.
COUNTRY WEEK TEAM NOMINATIONS
The Sunraysia District Golf Association has asked club delegates to nominate players from their club's to form a squad from which the 2010 Country Week team will be chosen. The SDGA collates all scores from Open tournaments and will add those scores to the district pennant results in June/July. The team and it's captain will then be announced at the conclusion of the SDGA championships at Mildura Golf Club Resort on July 25th. Earlier in the year it looked as though the team would be completely decimated with the districts top three players from last year unavailable but only Tim Peterson appears now to be absent. Our top juniors have all staked claims for inclusion so far including Jake Laubsch, Ryan Laird and Tim Walker. This year could also see the first player from Broken Hill chosen to wear the green and gold in Melbourne in October. All district players who are interested in being included in the initial squad should contact their SDGA club representative.
ALLENBY FROM OUYEN TO SAWGRASS
In 1990 Robert Allenby was the star visitor and tournament favourite from the big smoke for the 1990 36 hole Victorian Sandscrape Championship at Ouyen. To be fair, Allenby who played at Yarra Yarra Golf Club in Melbourne had little experience on sandscrapes but he was the best amateur golfer in the State. A big contingent of local golfers travelled down to support the event and Ouyen Golf Club and many of us were playing on sand for the first time. It was a fantastic event on a really interesting golf course and all in attendance had a ball. The Ouyen folk were most hospitable and everything went like clockwork, except, the favourite came second. Andrew Kane from Boort upstaged the City boy to win with Greg Rhodes in third place. Kane began a golf professional traineeship the following year then moved to Mildura to work as the club professional at Mildura Golf Club Resort in 1995. Allenby went on to win the Victorian Amateur Championship then turned pro and the rest is history. On Monday morning all of Australia tuned in to watch the last round of the Tournament Players Championship at Sawgrass in Jacksonville. Unfortunately he was second once again after playing superbly without much luck on the greens in the last round. Allenby just missed out on almost $2 million by just the one shot. Now Tim Clark can tell his friends that he and Andrew Kane from Boort have something in common! Allenby is so close to winning, it might just be at the US Open at Pebble Beach next month or the British Open at St Andrews in July. Irrespective of whether he wins again, his tournament record is reaching top 10 status in Australia's best ever.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This scores for this week's Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the week were red hot with great performances at Wentworth, Coomealla, Merbein and Riverside. At Wentworth John Filippi had a career best 64 net, Max Turvey turned back the clock also with a 64 at Merbein, David Turner racked up 44 points at Coomealla but at Riverside Lindsay Rigby had a net 63. But being Mothers Day last Sunday our Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week goes to Riverside's Margo Adair for her +9. Margo wins one dozen Taylor Made XD golf balls and must pick them up from the Sunraysia Golf Range by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

5/5/10

COURSE RECORD 67 TO ASHLEY WHITEHOUSE IN MILDRA OPEN
Ashley Whitehouse was a man on a mission on the weekend in the 2010 Mildura Golf Club Resort Open. There are many local golfers who hope they can win an Open and beat Greg Rhodes and the other handful of local golfing stars. There is that handful that believe that if they play to their best that they can win but Ashley Whitehouse knows he can win and on Sunday, he did. On Saturday he started well turning one under par after nine holes but on the second nine things didn't go as well and he found himself four shots behind and out of the seeded group for Sunday. This was a setback as he is confident that he can rise to the occasion playing in that last group. His playing partner on Saturday was Justin McPhee who recently won the Renmark Open after closing with a 69. McPhee is currently right at the top of his game and finished his round off well with a 70 to lead overnight from Greg Rhodes on 70 and the two Jakes, Slimmon and Laubsch who had 73's. Whitehouse still felt in the contest as he was only four back and knew that if he could post a score whilst the top group were hammering away at each other, then he was a chance. Starting on the 10th he birdied 10,12,14 and 16 to turn in 32 on the nine that he had 39 on the previous day. It is at this point where the nerves creep in and many players start playing defensively trying to protect their score but Whitehouse has been around the traps for a while. A second nine one under par 35 gave him the new course record of 67 as the golf course has recently been re-rated, which he is not happy about because it replaces his old record of 65! As reported last week he has played very little golf over the summer compared to all of the other top players who played regularly. After the Merbein Open at Mildura where he came home strongly only to trip at the last hurdle he knew that the 2010 Mildura tournament was there for the taking. This win sets up the rest of the Open season beautifully with five opens still to come including Wentworth, Red Cliffs, Robinvale, Broken Hill and the SDGA at Mildura. Greg Rhodes and Justin McPhee were three shots back in second spot and the two Jakes were next. Unfortunately the rivalry and competition won't be as strong this weekend at the Wentworth Open as some of the top players won't be playing due to Sunday being Mother's Day. This is something that should be considered as an Open on this weekend has never been well supported in the past particularly from dads and fathers. The Red Cliffs Open is on the following weekend when all of the main contenders will be back in action.
McILROY 62 AT QUAIL HOLLOW
Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy easily won the Quail Hollow Championship in Charlotte North Carolina on Sunday after just making the 36 hole cut at one over par after rounds of 72-73. McIlroy who turned 21 yesterday exploded at the weekend coming from 8 shots behind to shoot 66 on Saturday and a new course record 62 on Sunday in recording his first win on the US PGA Tour. Masters champion Phil Mickelson was second four shots back at 11 under par. Tiger Woods missed the cut and then watched McIlroy become the second youngest winner ever on the US PGA Tour behind Woods himself. This week the focus turns to what the Americans suggest is the "5th major" when the Tournament Players Championship hosts all of the worlds best players at TPC Sawgrass in Jacksonville. This golf course was a purpose built stadium golf course which is quite unique. I played it in 1999 and was amazed at the alligators in the water that winds it's way around the entire golf course. Along the sides of the fairways and surrounding the greens tiered grass "grandstands" allow terrific viewing for the spectators, they also bring in actual grandstands as well for the tournament allowing almost everyone a seat. The par 3 17th hole is the most famous par 3 in the world and will more than likely dictate the outcome of the tournament on Sunday. The players will only be hitting in pitching wedges but at least half will hit it in the water, sounds ridiculous but that water has a way of attracting golf balls. At 6500 metres this is one of the shortest courses on the tournament schedule but it is the tight driving areas and small greens and the water that make scoring difficult. Aussies have done well in this event in the past, Adam Scott is our most recent winner in 2004 but Steve Elkington has won the title twice. Greg Norman still holds the record for the lowest 72 hole score of 24 under par in 1994 which included the equal course record with Fred Couples of 63. Things might be tough in America but the prize money for this championship is quite handy at almost $10 million Aus with the winner pocketing almost $1.9 million Aus. This year I like the chances of England's Ian Poulter or Argentina's Angel Cabrera.
ISHIKAWA SHOOTS 58 IN JAPAN
Eighteen year old Japanese superstar Ryo Ishikawa shot Japan's PGA tournament lowest ever round of 58 to win The Crowns Championship on Sunday. He began the last round a long way behind at one under par but recorded 12 birdies and 6 pars to blow the field away. Former Australian Open winner Craig Parry who finished 34th behind Ishikawa said "That is the best round I have ever seen. The greens were as hard as concrete". Ishikawa has now won seven times since his inaugural win on the Japan tour as a 15 year old in 2007. So far he has played mainly in Japan where he is known as the "Bashful Prince" but it would seem only a matter of time before he plays the international circuit against the world's best including his age group peers of Rory McIlroy and Matteo Manassero.
ITALIAN TEENAGER TURNS PROFESSIONAL
Matteo Manassero turned professional on Monday at age 17 and 9 days making him the second youngest player ever behind Seve Ballesteros on the European Tour. Last year he became the youngest ever winner of the British amateur championship and also the youngest ever winner of the silver medal awarded as the low amateur in the British Open at Turnberry. On Thursday he makes his professional debut in the BMW Italian Open and the world (particularly Italy) awaits the outcome. Manassero will no doubt be paired with Ishakawa and McIlroy in the years to come as they will take over from old men such as Woods and Mickelson who are now in their mid 30's.
QUIROS WINS HOME OPEN IN PLAYOFF
Spain's Alvaro Quiros fulfilled his dream of winning his Country's Open Championship in Seville Spain on Sunday. Quiros became only the third Spaniard along with Seve Ballesteros and Sergio Garcia to win the title since 1972. Quiros struggled at the weekend and only won after a sudden death play off with little known Englishman James Morrison. Quiros was often fifty metres in front of his playing partners off the tee but couldn't convert that advantage into birdies. Quiros is desperate to make the Ryder Cup team in September and play against the US. He currently is 17th in the standings. This week he will take his place in the field at the TPC in Jacksonville.
AI MIYAZATO WINS IN MEXICO
Japanese golf professional Ai Miyazato spoilt the party on Sunday when she won the Mexico Open to defeat home town heroine Lorena Ochoa. It was former world number one, Ochoa's last tournament as she now goes into an early retirement at 28 to concentrate on having a family. Whilst Ochoa is probably not as big a superstar in Mexico as Miyazato is in Japan, she has single handedly put women's golf on the map in Mexico. Miyazato won the first two events of the year on the US LPGA Tour in Thailand and Singapore and now sits on top of the money list for the year so far.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
There were numerous great rounds recorded on Sunraysia's golf courses over the last week. Compared to last week there were 20 people who could have won the round of the week. Joan Sirovica had 45 points at Riverside which would normally win, but not this week. Robin Arnold had 64 net at Riverside, great score, but no cigar. Chris Barko had 44 points at Red Cliffs which didn't even win there as Ray Stone came in the mammoth score of 47 points which would usually win a 4BBB. Ray is this week's Sunraysia Golf Range Round of the Week and wins one dozen Taylor Made XD golf balls that must be collected by Friday from the Sunraysia Golf Range.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.
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Top 10 at Mildura Top 10 Handicap
1 Ashley Whitehouse 141 1 Peter Keher A 140
2 Greg Rhodes 144 2 Tyler Verbeek A 141
2 Justin McPhee 144 3 Seb Raiti B 141
4 Jacob Slimmon 149 4 Chris Nugent C 142
5 Jake Laubsch 150 4 Eric Bruton C 142
6 Tyler Verbeek 151 4 Ray Mathews B 142
7 Sean Baumgurtel 152 4 Marty Livingstone B 142
8 Cameron Stewart 153 8 Ashley Whitehouse A 143
8 Robert Veit 153 8 Nigel Ingram C 143
10 Peter Keher 154 8 Robert Veit A 143

28/4/10

CHALLENGERS LINE UP AT MILDURA OPEN
Greg Rhodes grew up playing golf at the Mildura Golf Club Resort and there would be few people with a better knowledge of how to play the golf course. Rhodes was club champion at Mildura for more than a decade but since his golfing home move over the river to Coomealla his dominance in Mildura's Open has diminished somewhat. Two wins in the last six years is a meagre return for the champ, by Rhodes standards. This weekend the pressure builds as he endeavours to maintain his unbeaten run in loal Opens this year. One would think that he would start a red hot favourite this weekend but that is not the case. Whilst 2009 champion Tim Peterson won't be there to defend his title (playing football instead) three other challengers are all confident of knocking off the top dog come Sunday. It is said that in golf you are only as good as your last round, that being the case, Red Cliffs Justin McPhee is the most in form player in the field. McPhee won the Renmark Open after he finished with a closing round of 69. If he can produce that form this weekend he will be hard to beat. 2008 champion Ashley Whitehouse is coming back to his best form and in talking to him it is obvious he believes he can win this tournament. Whitehouse is one player who doesn't hold any fear of Rhodes when it comes down to the last few holes of a championship. Jake Laubsch is knocking on the door and had the best final round at Mildura in the second round of the Merbein Open a fortnight ago. The more he plays in that seeded group on the second day, the closer he gets to his maiden victory. Once that happens the floodgates might just open but the first win is always the hardest to achieve at this level. The Mildura Golf Club Resort Open has been the number one local Open for the last six years and entries are sure to be chock ablock so pick up the phone if you haven't already entered.
MARCUS FRASER WINS IN KOREA
Marcus Fraser won the Russian Open seven years ago and has struggled to win on the European Golf Tour ever since. The former Corowa boy has been in contention on the last day on several occasions but just couldn't finish off the job. On Sunday he won the Ballantines Championship in Korea by four shots from a field that included world top 10 players in South Africa's Ernie Els and America's Anthony Kim. Fraser can now look forward to the rest of the year with a renewed confidence and the security of a two year guaranteed ticket on the European Tour. Brett Rumford made it a great weekend for the Aussies when he finished equal second after returning to the European Tour after a 12 month stint on the tough US PGA Tour. This weekend the European Tour moves to Spain for their national Open and 46 year old Miguel Jiminez is hoping to be the first Spaniard since Sergio Garcia in 2002 to raise the trophy on Sunday night. Jiminez had an unexpected week off last week as he couldn't get to Korea because of the aeroplane cancellations due to the Iceland volcanic ash. In a year where 45 seems to be the new "35" on world golf tours, Jiminez is in career best form but his long hitting compatriot Alvaro Quiros might just be the man to beat. Australia's best chance appears to be left hander Richard Green.
AUSSIES DO WELL IN NEW ORLEANS
American Jason Bohn was the winner of the Zurich Classic in New Orleans on Sunday but 12 Aussies made the cut with left Greg Chalmers in 5th place and Stuart Appleby in 6th spot. John Senden who leads the US PGA Tour in greens hit in regulation looked well placed early in the tournament but slipped back in the last two rounds. Former Australian Open winner Greg Chalmers has been back and forth between the main tour and the secondary Nationwide Tour over the last ten years but this season is his best ever for consistency. Appleby is clawing his way back after falling out of form 18 months ago when he switched equipment from Bridgestone to Callaway. On the Nationwide Tour Ewan Porter completed a great weekend for Australian golf when he won the South Georgia Classic putting him in 3rd place on the Nationwide ladder. The top 25 players at years end qualify for the US PGA Tour in 2011. This week on the main tour Tiger is back to do battle with Mickelson and co in the Quail Hollow Championship that he last won in 2005. All the top Australian are playing and perhaps Adam Scott might emerge from the pack after a long dry spell.
SIXTH GOLF TOUR TO NEW ZEALAND FOR SUNRAYSIA GOLF TOURS
Sunraysia Golf Tours will take a 12 day golf tour to New Zealand in September for the sixth time since 1995. This will be a truly exciting golfing excursion to one of the most beautiful counties in the world. The six golf courses chosen are all featured in New Zealand's top 10 golf courses including Cape Kidnappers at Hawkes Bay, Wairakei International at Taupo, The Kinloch Club at Kinloch, Paraparaumu Beach near Wellington which has hosted 12 new Zealand Opens, Gulf Harbour in Auckland and Terrace Downs near Christchurch. Attractions included are a Trans Alpine Rail journey through the magnificent South Island alps, tour of some of the Marlborough regions award winning wineries, Luncheon cruise on Lake Taupo and a host of other NZ attractions too numerous to mention. The cost of $4195 twin share includes return air fares out of Melbourne, luxury coach travel, golf fees including motorised carts and 12 nights luxury accommodation at hotels and resorts in Christchurch, Blenheim, Wellington, Taupo and Auckland and includes 12 cooked breakfast and 10 evening meals. Contact Kym Doherty on 0408310532 for more information.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
There were some good scores on Sunraysia's golf courses last week but there was no standout round. The re-handicapping of all players will see some crazy scores over the next few weeks with some golfers going out up to seven strokes on their handicap. This week's best scores came from Merbein where Rodney Poole had nett 65 and Wentworth where Helen Russell did the same. At Riverside Peter Burgess and Murray Wilson both had 42 points and Graeme Millington had 42 points at Mildura.
Mildura's Joan Poole was only a runner up at Wentworth with 66 nett but her round included a hole in one. Her Round of the Week prize will make it the round and that shot something to remember. Joan wins one dozen Taylor Made XD golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range and must be collected by Friday.
Contact me with any golf information or opinions on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

21/4/10

RHODES WINS MERBEIN OPEN
Greg Rhodes won the Merbein Open played at Mildura Golf Club Resort at the weekend and local golfers are now posing the question of whether he could achieve a feat in local golf that even he has never achieved. Nobody has ever won every Sunraysia Open golf tournament in the one year. With the inclusion of Broken Hill there are now nine Opens including the SDGA Open which will be played at Mildura this year. It depends on whether he commits to playing in every Open and then if he can continue his winning streak. So far this year he has won the Coomealla, Blackwood Open amateur in Adelaide, Riverside and Merbein Opens. On Saturday Rhodes had a three under par 69 to lead by three strokes from Jacob Slimmon, Ashley Whitehouse 73 and Jake Laubsch 75 made up the rest of the four in the seeded leaders grouping. After winning at Coomealla and Riverside in sudden death playoffs he looked a certainty to walk away with the trophy come Sunday. But that's not the way it panned out. Slimmon had played on Saturday morning and then fronted up for football in the afternoon which was hardly a good preparation for Sunday's second round. After a solid front nine which included some booming drives he fell out of contention around the back nine. Laubsch who has struggled with his temperament recently, played the best golf of the day to finish with 71 to finish third. Whitehouse started the day four shots behind but was level with Rhodes as they strode to the 18th tee. Both players were short of the green and after Whitehouse slipped his chip past the pin leaving a downhill putt, Rhodes popped his six foot under the pin. Whitehouse missed his putt, then Rhodes calmly sank the winning putt and probably breathed a huge sigh of relief. Rhodes would have kicked himself if he had lost after leading overnight by four shots from Whitehouse but it once again illustrated how difficult it is to lead overnight in any tournament. There were lots of positives to come out of the weekend. Mildura Golf Club Resort get top marks for their co-ordination and generosity in hosting a terrific Merbein Open. Mildura's Steve Henshall is the new pin up boy at Merbein Golf Club for his untiring efforts. Merbein Golf Club are to be congratulated for an excellent tournament which included a seeded group that the participating players prefer. Ashley Whitehouse's form is getting better each week and he is edging closer to knocking off the King. Robert Veit at age 57 recorded his second top 10 in two weeks and is the man to beat for the over 55 senior section. Juniors Luke Stanbrook and Shea Toma both performed admirably finishing equal 10th. The next club Open will be the Mildura Golf Club Resort Open on May 1-2.
McPHEE WINS RENMARK OPEN
Red Cliffs golfer Justin McPhee won the 2010 Renmark Open at the weekend by one stroke from Kooyonga's Jason Spears. McPhee played ordinarily on Saturday for a 77 to be three shots behind Spears overnight but on Sunday he showed real class with a three under par 69. McPhee was at Renmark captaining the Sunraysia representative team against the Riverland Golf Association in the 15th playing of the Doherty/McInnes Cup which is played in conjunction with the open tournament. Unfortunately Sunraysia went down nine matches to five with McPhee winning twice and juniors Tyler Verbeek, Dom Vartulli and Damen Southgate winning one contest each. Verbeek played really well on both days winning the individual A grade handicap with scores of 71-73 nett 144. Sunraysia now leads the Riverland 12-3 and are looking forward to winning the cup back next year at the Mildura Golf Club Resort Open.
FURYK WINS VERIZON HERITAGE OPEN
Jim Furyk won the Verizon Heritage Open in South Carolina on Sunday in a play off with Englishman Brian Davis. Furyk won his 15th US PGA tournament and his second this year to him into second place in the Fed Ex Cup standings behind South Africa's Ernie Els. The interesting thing about this result was how it unfurled in the play off when Davis hit his second shot onto the beach beside the 18th green which is deemed a hazard. After playing his bunker shot onto the green, Davis immediately called the rules official over to declare that he had brushed a loose impediment on his take away which is a two shot penalty. Absolutely no one else had seen the infringement, except Davis. After examining the television tape it was agreed that he had brushed the twig and the two shot penalty was awarded. Furyk then tapped in his fourth shot for par to win. Davis called the penalty on himself which saw him finish second in an event for the fourth time without ever recording a win. It is why golf remains the cleanest and most honest sport of all because it is the players who usually call penalties on themselves. The next PGA Tour event is in New Orleans this week for the Zurich Classic.
HACKERS 23RD GOLF TOURNAMENT AT TOCUMWAL
Last weekend I was invited to play in the 23rd Hackers 36 hole golf tournament which this year was played at Tocumwal Golf Club. I was looking forward to playing Tocumwal for the first time and meeting some friends of David Gardiner who was playing in the tournament for the 15th time. What I didn't know was that Dave and I were the only players with club handicaps with the other chaps all on social handicaps. Several years ago we recorded a 10 episode series of the ficticous Irony's on the 3MA Golf Show and quite clearly it could have been loosely based on this group. It was hilarious as each group "captain" was handed a "fine" sheet for each round. Some of the fines included having the honour, three putts, three in a bunker, not making the ladies tee, wearing sunglasses, carrying an umbrella, swearing, carrying a mobile telephone and others to numerous to mention. The award ceremony where the 2010 Hacker Champion was presented with the "Green Jacket" complete with the names of all previous winners embroidered on the back was sensational. Most "fanny's" for the man not reaching the ladies tee went down to a countback with two players not reaching the tee on seven occassions! Amongst the players who nearly all had nicknames were Ctrusty (a dead ringer for the Simpsons Crusty the clown), Spike, Soupy, Philco, Butcher, Bear, Trader and the Cat in the Hat. It really took me back to my early golfing days in the 70's when I used to play with a similar group of mates every Saturday morning in the summer. We organised our own handicaps depending on who won etc and it was great fun. As with the Hackers we took our golf very seriously as all golfers at any level do. You don't have to play like the Tiger or the Shark to simply enjoy the wonderful game of golf, but occasionally, even momentarily it's great to get that feeling of a perfectly (for us) hit shot. Long may the Hackers and all groups like them live to enjoy the challenge of golf.
Contact me with your golf information or opinions at fax 03 50247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

14/4/10

RHODES WINS 2OTH RIVERSIDE OPEN
Greg Rhodes won his 20th Riverside Open on Sunday but he did it the hard way after coming from 4 strokes behind behind. On Saturday Sean Baumgurtel had a fine two under par 70 to lead by one shot from Ashley Whitehouse and Cameron Stewart. Justin McPhee was at even par on 72 with Leigh Fuller and Chris Thomas on 73 and Travis Patten on 74. Rhodes had played poorly, for him and had had a 75 to match junior Tyler Verbeek. The Sunday format in Opens over the last 20 years has been to seed the top four players in the same group at the end of the field as they do in all major championships but Riverside went back to the system of the 80's with no seeded group. Baumgurtel and Whitehouse played together and had 79-78 respectively, putting them out of the contest. McPhee and Fuller then came in with 74 and 73 to be tied leaders in the clubhouse. Cameron Stewart was next in on 78 and Chris Thomas had an 80 which left only Rhodes in the last group left on the course still in the hunt. Rhodes has always played well on the second round of the Open at Riverside and after his 75 net 79 on Saturday he was keen to improve. Improve he did with a 71 to go into a playoff with McPhee and Fuller. Fuller was the first casualty on the first playoff hole on the wonderful par 3 18th. Riverside has some terrific golf holes but none better than the 18th, particularly when there is a playoff and surrounded by spectators it becomes an amphitheatre. On the second attempt Rhodes missed an uphill two foot put to win but when they played it again and he drained a downhill 20 footer for birdie to take home his 20th title at the picturesque course. For the record though, he didn't play to his handicap on either day shooting net 79 and 75 as his handicap went to +4 with the new handicapping system. To add further interest on Sunday evening a playoff in C grade preceded the A grade shootout and long-time course commentator Don McMaster won from course curator Brendan Marr. Whilst it was great to see the popular "kangaroo man" win it would have been very appropriate if the man who has virtually resurrected the golf course get up and win his section. Riverside received glowing reports from all corners for the condition of the course and Brendan Marr has played a major role in that improvement.
MICKLESON WINS 3RD US MASTERS
For the true golf lover, the US Masters is compulsory viewing every April. The build up is always enormous but this year it was triple what it usually has been in the past. Phil Mickelson dressed in black did what the American golfing public wanted and won his third green jacket. The Yanks love Mickelson, always have, but more so now after both his wife and mother have been suffering from breast cancer and the way he has carried himself through a most difficult twelve months. Mickelson's play, particularly on Saturday and then again on Sunday was reminiscent of the old cowboy movies where the goodie, always dressed in white saves the day at the end of the movie and shoots the baddie who was always in black. One thing that is always loudest at Augusta is the abrupt noise of the spectators that resonates around the golf course and surely must startle the players as they are in the motion of hitting the ball. Fred Couples and Tom Watson provided great viewing in the early round and Couples hung around as a contender for 66 holes until his belly putter failed him. K J Choi had the unenviable task of playing with Tiger Woods all four days but it didn't seem to faze him at all as his demeanour didn't change at any stage. On Sunday he looked to be the one who might just fly under the radar and out last them all, but that didn't eventuate. England's Lee Westwood just couldn't get the job finished. He played beautifully up until Sunday but Mickelson was just too good on the day. Hopefully he will win a major soon after finishing second in a major for the third time. Tiger Woods would have won if he had putted better and reduced the amount of bogies he had. Consider the numbers, Woods had 17 birdies against Mickelson's 16, 4 eagles against Mickelson's 3 but 17 bogies against Mickelson's 6. In the famous cliché though, it was probably good for golf that Woods didn't win and that the all American hero did. It sort of put the sordid stories of Wood's exploits aside while everyone rejoiced in all of the good things that golf and the solid family man has to offer. One positive thing that happened from an Australian viewpoint was Nathan Green's hole in one but once again no Aussie looked likely at any stage, maybe next year.
18TH TRI-STATE MASTERS
The 18th Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters is only one month away and entires have been coming in from all over Australia and New Zealand. This year Paul Gueorgieff from Manor Park Golf Club in Wellington will receive his five year badge, not a bad effort to come that far five times. Paul says that the Tri-State Masters is the best tournament he has ever played in and this year he is hoping to play well after reducing his handicap down to 7. Last year local golfer Steve Spooner won the scratch championship playing off a 6 handicap so it opens up the opportunities for a win by anyone around that mark. The tournament commences with a Cocktail Party at the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club on Sunday May 16, then the New South Wales leg is on Monday the 17th at Coomealla, the S A leg is at Berri on Wednesday 19 and concludes with the Victorian leg at the Mildura Golf Club Resort on Friday May 21st and a Presentation Dinner that evening at the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club.
SUNRAYSIA GOLF RANGE - ROUND OF THE WEEK
This week we are re-introducing the Round of the Week with the support of the Sunraysia Golf Range in Ontario Avenue. This award was given to the player of the week in the Sunraysia Daily for almost 20 years and highlights several outstanding rounds each week on Sunraysia's golf courses with one lucky player chosen as the Round of the Week. This week's best scores all happened at Riverside on Saturday with Travis Patten shooting 74-9-65, Marty Livingston 77-12-65 and Glen Kelly 90-26-64.
This week Darren Woolfrey's 80-17-63 wins one dozen Taylor Made XD golf balls from the Sunraysia Golf Range and must be collected by Friday.
MERBEIN OPEN
Greg Rhodes will be ready for all challenges this weekend at Mildura Golf Club Resort for the 2010 Merbein Open. Merbein in conjunction with Mildura Golf Club Resort are planning a great weekend of golf with great trophies, warm hospitality, sausage sizzles, raffles and much much more. Jake Laubsch will be back after a week in Adelaide and is the man or in his case, lad most likely to be Rhodes biggest threat. Ashley Whitehouse played well on Saturday at Riverside but faltered on Sunday, on his home course this week after four Open rounds at Coomealla and Riverside, he should be better prepared to mount a stronger challenge to Rhodes. Sean Baumgurtel has the shots but must overcome nerves if he is to take the next step as he has improved as a golfer in the last twelve months. It is not easy leading overnight when you know that golfers of the calibre of Rhodes, Whitehouse and co are hot on your heels. His time will come when he starts to believe in himself. In an unfortunate mix up of dates a depleted Sunraysia team will venture over to play the Riverland Golf Association for the Doherty/McInnes Cup in the Renmark Open this weekend. The Riverland Golf Association rotate their Opens for this annual event and this year it is Renmark's turn. This robs our local Merbein Open of a few good players but it also opens up the opportunity for players such as new up and comers Tyler Verbeek and Chris Thomas to join up with seasoned campaigners Justin McPhee and Andy Stewart to represent Sunraysia at senior level. District president Greg McCubbin will manage the team which has won twelve times out of fourteen contests.
Contact me with any golf information of opinions on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

7/4/10

RIVERSIDE OPEN
Riverside Golf Club will host their 2010 Open tournament this weekend and Greg Rhodes will be aiming at his 20th win in the tournament. Rhodes has won the event 19 times and is in red hot form after he shot 66 at Coomealla on Sunday, then 68-69 on Monday to win the Blackwood Open amateur by in Adelaide by 3 strokes. Only Ashley Whitehouse has given him any serious competition a Riverside in the last ten years but Whitehouse's form this year hasn't been up to his usual standard. Jake Laubsch looked to be the best chance this year to challenge Rhodes but he seems to have hit a flat patch lately. Laubsch is a super talent but his eagerness to work hard on his game and then his expectations to perform at the top level can become frustrating if those lofty goals aren't always achieved. Laubsch just needs to back off a little bit and start enjoying his golf, then the results will come. Cameron Stewart is in great form finishing fourth at Coomealla in their Open and Sean Baumgurtel is another player who could bob up. With the US Masters on this week it will be interesting to see how that golf exposure will influence how many will tee it up at Riverside as Coomealla's Open field was well down last month.
MERBEIN OPEN
Last year Merbein Golf Club embarked on a green replacement program and recently re-opened the full 18 holes. Mildura Golf Club very generously offered their course as an alternative venue for the Merbein Open which was gratefully accepted. The tournament was a great success and with Merbein's new greens still in their early stages of growth, Mildura Golf Club has once again laid out the welcome mat for Merbein on April 17-18. Merbein Golf Club have been extremely active sourcing sponsorship and this year will offer competitors in the 2010 Merbein Open the tournament's best ever array of trophies. Meanwhile, Merbein advise that back at the ranch play is taking place on all of their 18 holes and visitors and green fee players will be made most welcome. Interestingly Warracknabeal Golf Club have decided to change their greens from bent grass to santayana couch as Merbein has done because it is an easier grass to maintain.
US MASTERS
There is no doubt that more people will be watching the US Masters this year than ever before. They'll be watching Tiger Woods every move. They'll be watching to see if any of the reported 90 guards get in his or his playing partner's way. Locally we will be watching to see if one of our seven Aussies can contend this year. Adam Scott and Geoff Ogilvy are always our main chances but Robert Allenby could be our best chance this year. Other Aussies teeing it up are Michael Sim, Nathan Green,John Senden and Marc Leishman. One of the older brigade might win it this year, someone like Fred Couples or Kenny Perry or maybe an up and comer like England's Paul Casey. Who ever wins this year, there is no doubt that they will be the second story behind what Tiger does. For him to win it this year would be almost as big a story as his recent disclosures. The US Masters is arguably the best golf tournament of the year apart from the British Open.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au

30/3/10

STEWART BROTHERS ON TOP
Mildura's Cameron and Andrew Stewart took out the prestigious Sunraysia District Golf Association 4BBB Lever Cup Championship at Red Cliffs golf club on Saturday. The Stewarts had a six under par 66 tying Sean Baumgurtel and Ashley Whitehouse who had also come in with 66. A play off began on the first hole with both teams making par then moved to Red Cliffs hardest hole, the 400 metre par 4 seventh. Cameron Stewart was able to seal the victory with a par after Baumgurtel three putted for a bogey. In the Blair-Seeley 4BBB par Championship it was an all Red Cliffs affair with Robert (Chopper) Chase combining with newcomer Tim Seabrook to win 13 up against par from Ken Woosnam and Robert Stewart on 12 up. The scoring in both sections was excellent but the field was down on the glory years of the championship when this event used to attract capacity fields as a 36 hole one day event. In those days however, strong contingents arrived from Robinvale and Ouyen and all other district clubs, but not any more. Clubs are encouraging their members to "stay home" and play their own courses, which is a pity. This Easter weekend Coomealla golf club are conducting an Easter Classic tournament from Friday to Monday, contact the club on 50 274658 for details. The Riverside Open on April 10-11 will be the next major district 36 hole open tournament.
ERNIE WINS AT BAY HILL
South Africa's Ernie Els won for the second week in a row when he took out the rain delayed Arnold Palmer Invitational at Arnie's course Bay Hill. Els is on a roll and will play at Houston this week when a lot of the top players are taking the week off before the Masters at Augusta the following week. Interestingly Els has won eight times after being the third round leader. Ernie's score of -11 looks pretty good up against world number two Phil Mickelson who finished at +2 after posting rounds of 75-77 at the weekend. In 2004 the "big easy" had realistic chances to win in all four majors and looked to be Tiger Wood's main opponent but after skiing accident and subsequent operation on his knee later that year put paid to that. He now looks to be seriously back on track now and is gearing up for another assault on the Masters. The Shell Houston Open hits off on Thursday for the 64 time since Byron Nelson won in 1946. Last year England's Paul Casey won in a play off with J B Holmes with Nick O'Hern and Fred Couples two shots back in a tie for third. This has been a great tournament for Australians with Bruce Devlin, Bruce Crampton (2), David Graham, Stuart Appleby (2), Robert Allenby and Adam Scott all past winners of this event.
OOSTHUIZEN UP IN SPAIN
It must have been a great weekend in South Africa for all golfing enthusiasts when Louis Oosthuizen won the Open de Andalucia in Spain and then Ernie won in the US. Oosthuizen was sitting at 60th in the world rankings but his win has lifted him into the top 50, giving him a start at the Masters next week. Little Louis has been playing consistently on the European Tour this year and was runner up in Morocco last week, he now sits in eighth place in the European Tours Race to Dubai. Another South African, Charl Schwartzel is in the number one position from England's Ian Poulter second and Ernie Els third.
FREDDY ON FIRE IN SENIORS
Fred Couples won his third Seniors tournament in a row in the Dominican Republic at the Cap Cana Championship. Fellow American Corey Pavin and Zimbabwe's Nick Price looked to have Freddie's measure but they didn't count on 11 birdies and a last round 62 from the former Masters champion. Don't think these "old" blokes can't hit it like they used to because between the threesome they had 11 birdies and an eagle in the first nine holes on Sunday! Couples is playing in Houston this week and then the Masters the following week. Don't be surprised if he is right up there in both events as he has got his mojo back, but more importantly he has rediscovered his putting touch. In an era where it seems everything old is new again, Couples could be the sentimental favourite next week beside a crouching Tiger.
LADIES GOLF POPULAR WORLDWIDE
It seems like the Americans can't catch up on the USLPGA Tour with Morgan Pressel and Michele Wie 8 shots back in equal 5th at the Kia Classic in Carlsbad California. Korean Seo Hee-Kyung won by 6 shots from fellow Korean Park In-Bee. Indeed, the top four players were from Korea and Taipei. Seo came fourth in Australia behind Karrie Webb at the ANZ Ladies Masters at Royal Pines last month and is well regarded in ladies golf. She now has a walk up start in any event after receiving a sponsors exemption invitation to play in then blitzing the Kia Classic. Michele Wie it seems is never far from some sort of controversy and so it was again on Sunday. Wie hit her ball into a lake and followed it in to whack it out. After doing so the ball rolled back over the hazard line but not into the lake. Wie inadvertently grounded her club and invoked a two stroke penalty. She was shown on the golf channel arguing her case, but to no avail as she copped a two stroke penalty which effectively cost her $90,000 in prize money. In the letter of the rules she didn't have a leg to stand on (pardon the pun) but it is just another silly rule as she didn't get any advantage whatsoever. As golfers though, we can all learn from her misfortune. Not that it is ever going to be a real problem on Sunraysia's golf courses!
NEW AUSTRALIAN HANDICAP SYSTEM
Australian golf clubs will adopt a new handicapping system from April 9. To work out what your new handicap will be, go to your last 20 rounds, delete the worst 10. Then you add those rounds up and multiply by 9.6 using the daily CCR's to get your starting handicap from April 9. After that date the ACR will be used to determine any changes to your handicap. Before the Coomealla Open last week Greg Rhodes would have been on +3 instead of +1 if the system had of been implemented then. It appears as though some players will go out and some will come in, it just depends on your last best 10 scores compared to your current handicap. To check what you would change to now go to the golflink website and work it out. This handicapping system is used all over the world from America to New Zealand so we should be able to work it out. It means that theoretically you should be on an equal footing with players irrespective of where they play golf in the world.
Contact me with your golfing opinion or information on fax 03 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

23/03/10

RHODES WINS COOMEALLA OPEN
Greg Rhodes won the 2010 Coomealla Open on Sunday in a sudden death playoff against Kieren Barratt who is 36 years his junior. Barratt who had just turned 15 the previous Wednesday was at Coomealla with a contingent of golfers from Thaxted Park golf club in Adelaide. On Saturday Rhodes shot 72 to match Jake Laubsch as the overnight leaders, Cameron Stewart was in fourth place on 74. Most people though, were asking who is the K Barratt who was running third on 73? On Sunday the six foot two fifteen year old arrived with his dad and the rest of their group and it was plain to see that he was a bit toey. After chatting to him on the practise putting green he explained that on Saturday he was two under the card with three holes to go but finished with three bogeys. The putter hadn't work for him all day and he was hoping to turn that around. On Sunday the top four all hit off together and it was obvious that this kid was there to win, not just make up the numbers. Big Jake was the first casualty when he lost a ball on the thirteenth and made double bogey. This obviously threw his concentration out and he dropped out of contention. Cameron Stewart kept chipping away but was well back on Barratt who looked as though he would win with four holes to go. Barratt had putted like a demon in the first nine holes. The turning point came at the 16th when Rhodes got up and down from behind the green when he knocked in a ten foot putt for par. Barratt who was three shots clear had made bogey after going into the sand. On seventeen the youngster drove his ball to the right and then his second into a tree. Another bogey resulted. Rhodes sensing the chance to pounce, knocked in a twelve foot birdie putt and the scores were all square. On the par 3 18th Rhodes, playing the percentages, hit his tee shot to the middle of the green but Barratt attacked the pin only to watch it sail over the green into the back bunker. Advantage Rhodes. After fluffing his sand shot out to ten foot Barratt watched as Rhodes inexplicitly three putted to tie the South Australian who had also missed his putt for par. The playoff hole on ten was almost a replay of the 18th as Rhodes hit his second shot onto the green and the youngster went hard at the pin to find the back sand. Rhodes, this time, calmly two putted then watched as Barratt lipped past the hole. In the end it was another example of the young bull and the old bull. Rhodes has lost before after being in front but one could sense his confidence over the closing holes, until that first putt on 18. Barratt certainly had the chance to win but inexperience in that situation cost him dearly. At fifteen he knows there will be many times in the future that he will have opportunities to win. Barratt will now look forward to the Australian Junior championships in Launceston next month when he goes over with the South Australian junior State team. On Sunday night he said " I have played Coomealla six times and just love the course. I couldn't rate it any higher". Twelve golfers from South Australia played the Coomealla Open at the weekend. Surely it makes sense to advertise and promote our tournaments in South Australia and other nearby districts because Coomealla could easily have fitted another 100 players into the field. One hundred players by two to three hundred dollars a head including entry fees,meals, drinks and accommodation etc would be at least $20,000. Multiply that by the fourteen major golf tournaments in Sunraysia and you are talking serious money into the districts economy. Not to mention our golf clubs who are all struggling financially. Hopefully, if we keep knocking on the door of the local council for support of our major events, someone might eventually open it!
LEVER BLAIR-SEELEY AT RED CLIFFS
Red Cliffs golf club will host the annual Lever Blair-Seeley 4BBB on Saturday. It is fair to say that almost every half decent golfer that has ever played in Sunraysia golf is on one of these cups. If your'e not, then this is your opportunity to join the local stars of our game. Ring Red Cliffs golf club on 50 241531 or 50 241449 and leave a
message. The second round of the Sunraysia to 10 rankings will be the Riverside Open on April 10-11.
FURYK WINS 14TH TITLE
Jim Furyk won the Transitions golf tournament at the Doral golf club on Sunday. He never looked in any trouble until the 18th when he shanked his second shot almost taking a spectators head off in the process. Furyk's win now takes him to 6th in the world rankings. Pretty good for a bloke who was told as a junior coming through the ranks that his swing was way too unorthodox to succeed at any top level. The US Masters is only two weeks away and Furyk would love nothing more than to prove those early disbelievers wrong on what will be the biggest golfing stage of the year at Augusta.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.
*******************************************************************************
TOP 10 SCRATCH - COOMEALLA OPEN TOP 10 HANDICAP - COOMEALLA OPEN
1 Greg Rhodes Coomealla 147 1 Kieren Barratt(A)Thaxted Park (SA) 138
1 Kieren Barratt Thaxted Park 147 2 Andrew Munn (A) Thaxted Park (SA) 142
3 Cameron Stewart Mildura 148 3 Glenn Palmer (B) Coomealla 143
4 Jake Laubsch Coomealla 149 3 Cameron Stewart(A)Mildura 143
5 Andrew Munn Thaxted Park 152 5 Shane Doherty (A)Coomealla 144
6 Shane Doherty Coomealla 154 6 John Keogh (A)Coomealla 145
7 Andrew Stewart Mildura 155 7 Gavin Hocking (B)Merbein 146
7 Sean Baumgurtel Coomealla 155 8 David Philippi (B)Red Cliffs 147
9 John Keogh Coomealla 157 8 Kym Mack (B)Coomealla 147
10 Ash Whitehouse Mildura 158 8 Jake Laubsch ( A)Coomealla 147
8 Barry Waters (B)Coomealla 147
8 George Meszoly (C)Coomealla 147

17/03/10

COOMEALLA OPEN
Welcome to the ninth season of the 19th hole. The 2010 golf season kicks off in earnest this weekend when Mildura's Ashley Whitehouse goes into the 2010 Coomealla Open as the defending champion. Whitehouse is always a factor at Coomealla in any event but has been somewhat the forgotten man over the summer with teenage sensation Jake Laubsch and district legend Greg Rhodes scoring sub 70's on a regular basis. Whitehouse has played only six rounds of competition golf over the summer but a two under par 70 at Coomealla three weeks ago in his most recent outing indicated that he is back. Laubsch won Coomealla's Club Championship in November coming from three shots back to play with and beat Rhodes in a huge boilover. Since then the 16 year old has reduced his handicap from five to one, briefly touching scratch on two occasions recently. Both Rhodes and Laubsch have played consistently every weekend over the summer and are looking forward to the weekend. The big question is will the winner be the defender, emerging star or the district legend? Or will the first club open champion come from our second tier players such as Red Cliffs stalwart Justin McPhee or even a newcomer in Coomealla's Ben Challis who both scored 71's on Sunday and could contend if they were to reproduce that form. Ryan Laird is another young face who is in form whilst Andrew and Cameron Stewart are both capable of a forward showing. It may just be someone who has found a new driver that he is bombing long and straight or someone who has found a putter that just can't miss. More than likely, whoever wins will be someone who discovers, if only for a day or perhaps just nine holes, that slippery sometimes unattainable feeling of trust in their own ability, then the confidence to execute the shots and reward that trust. More than 200 men and women are expected to get the Sunraysia District Golf Association's official golf season off to a flying start at Coomealla, so enter today to be part of the action. Make 2010 your best year ever in golf, good luck.
SUNRAYSIA'S TOP 10
The top 10 players from first to tenth in the scratch scores from the Coomealla Open will be featured in next week's 19th hole. Additionally the top 10 handicap aggregates will also be featured. This category will include all grades so an A, B or C grader could be number one. The rankings will then be adjusted after the results of the Riverside Open on April 10-11 and then again after Merbein's Open on April 17-18 and conclude after the final Open of the year at Mildura for the SDGA championships on July 24-25. We will also feature other top 10's including the US Tour, European Tour, US Seniors and European Seniors and the US LPGA top 10 in ladies professional golf. More details in next week's new exciting 19th hole.
SUNRAYSIA DISTRICT GOLF ASSOCIATION JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
Ryan Laird won the 2010 SDGA Junior Championship at Mildura golf club on March 7th after an exciting four hole playoff with Jake Laubsch. Both boys had tied on 71 in an outstanding display of our local rich array of junior golfing talent. Ryan would have kicked himself if he had lost the playoff as he had double bogeyed the 18th after standing on the tee three under par. Both lads had played together all day and it would have been devastating to lose in that fashion. Laubsch didn't go home empty handed as he won the under 18 scratch section whilst Laird won the under 16 and overall. Other players who excelled on the day included Tim Walker, Tyler Verbeek and Dominic Vartulli. Walker won the Mildura Junior Open over 36 holes for the second year in a row after shooting 69-73. The SDGA has chosen Mildura's Shay Toma and Dominic Vartulli to attend the VGA camp at Mirboo North during the school holidays. This is a camp held annually that has hosted some of Australia's biggest names including Aaron Baddeley when they were emerging juniors.
ELLS BACK ON TOP
Ernie Ells is known as the "big easy" but life for him hasn't been that easy in recent times. After winning in Florida on Sunday he spoke of how difficult it had been getting back in the winners circle after a couple of winless years.
Ells moved to Florida from South Africa with his family primarily to avail his family of the best medical care. In particular his son who has autism. Ernie does a lot of work off the course and is currently planning a big hospital specialising in the care and treatment for autistic kids and their families. It really was great to see him play so well last week as he prepares for another assult on the US Masters at Augusta next month. Alistair Presnell was our best player finishing sixth whilst next best was Robert Allenby who had a hole in one on the final day.
KARRIE ALMOST BUT NOT QUITE
Karrie Webb almost got over the line at Coomonwealth in the Australian Open on Sunday but just failed over the last nine holes. Maybe it was the weight of expectation or perhaps she was mentally and physically drained after her emotional win at Royal Pines the previous week. Katherine Hull and Lindsey Wright also flew the Aussie flag well but not as well as Englishwoman Laura Davies. Taiwan's
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

10/10/10

TIM WALKER WINS MILDURA JUNIOR OPEN
Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker won his second Mildura Junior Open on Sunday after two great rounds of 69-73. His three under par 69 was a terrific performance in difficult weather conditions and to back it up with a consistent 73 on Sunday was impressive. Last year he won with two 72's so it appears this tournament suits him right down to the ground. He is trying to follow in big sister Christie's footsteps and become a trainee golf professional after he finishes his schooling. Runner up this year was Ryan Laird (73-71) who has worked feverishly on improving his golf. A visit to world renowned sports phychologist Noel Blundell recently has made a remarkable difference to Ryan's golf performance. Blundell has worked with some of Australia's top sports men and women, so an hour of his time can be worth much more than days on a practice fairway. On Sunday the second round of the championship was used to determine the 2010 Sunraysia District Junior Champion and Laird and pre tournament favourite Jake Laubsch tied with 71's. A sudden death play off was called for and after four hard fought holes Ryan Laird emerged the victor. It really was a case of David versus Goliath as big Jake is at least eight inches taller than Ryan. Walker, Laird, Laubsch and Tyler Verbeek are all in contention for a berth in the senior Sunraysia Country Week team so all eyes will be following their performances in the nine district Open's this year.
KARRIE WEBB SUPREME
Karrie Webb produced one of the greatest rounds ever seen in Australian golf last Sunday at Royal Pines in the Australian Ladies Masters. An eleven under par 61 was just sensational and once again emphasises her continued brilliance as one of Australia's best ever golfers along with Peter Thompson and Greg Norman. Defending champion Katherine Hull was relegated to spectator status by her own admission as Webb cast her spell over what must be one of her favourite golf courses. Mind you, Hull's score of 21 under, though five shots behind, would win most tournaments so she didn't lose it, Webb was just too good. This week the Australian Open is next on the agenda and Webb has won both titles back to back twice before, so she is going for a back to back three peat. It's hard to back against her but she will get tough competition this week where the field is a touch stronger. Commonwealth is a bit tighter than Royal Pines so the really big hitters might struggle to keep it on the fairway. American Christina Kim could be our girls biggest threat as she always seems to be in contention in the US tournaments. England's Laura Davies won the New Zealand Open two weeks ago and loves Melbourne so she might be a chance. I like the chances of Lindsey Wright and Sarah Kemp. Wright has been knocking on the door for some time so this might be her big breakthrough win.
VILLEGAS - THE NEW GOLDEN BOY
Carmillo Villegas won the Honda Classic on Sunday and really was never seriously challenged in the last 36 holes. His win followed on his great form in the World Matchplay where he finished third behind Ian Poulter and Paul Casey. Villegas looked like he was going to be the next big thing last year after a great 2008 but it didn't happen. This year though, could be HIS year. The yanks are always looking for the next star, particularly at the moment whilst Tiger is out of commission. Villegas has the looks and the game so it will be interesting to see how he goes in the big ones. The Masters is on next month but this week the CA championship will be played at Doral, known as the "blue monster". Big Phil is playing, so is Geoff Ogilvy and Ernie and nearly all of the worlds top players. Who ever wins will probably then be favourite for the Masters.
FREDDIE ON TOP IN SENIORS
Fred Couples is one of America's favourite golfers and he won his second title on the Senior circuit at the weekend. The previous week he performed really well in the Phoenix Open to be only six off the pace behind Hunter Mahan. Couples laconic laid back personality is lapped up by the american golfing public and he will feature at the Masters next month as previous winners are extended a life time invitation. Peter Senior played well again and a win on the Seniors is not far away. Stay with him because when he wins it will be at very generous odds.
Contact me with your opinion or golf information on fax 03 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

1/3/10

Mildura Junior Open
Jake Laubsch will start a warm favourite in the Mildura Junior Open this weekend. The tournament which now has Geoff Ogilvy points status is over 36 holes and has attracted a strong field with low single figure golfers coming from Melbourne and Swan Hill. Luke Merrett form Murray Downs won the inaugural tournament last year and will be hard to beat. Laubsch though, has been playing impeccable golf at Mildura and Coomealla over the last six months. Not many 16 year old juniors can cut five shots off their handicap in that time from 5 to scratch! Laubsch will also get some strong competition from locals in Coomealla's Tyler Verbeek and Ryan Laird and Tim Walker from Red Cliffs will also be a chance if he puts his best foot forward. The second round 18 holes scores on Sunday will also be used to determine the Sunraysia District Golf Association Junior Champions for 2010.
Laubsch Eyes Coomealla Open
Jake Laubsch and Greg Rhodes played together on Sunday at Coomealla in the daily single stableford event. On the surface it appeared like any other group going out for a Sunday hit but was it? Laubsch overcame his elder statesman playing partner to win the Coomealla Club Championship in November and beat the district number one again by three strokes on Sunday. This friendly rivalry just might be what Rhodes needs to get his competitive juices flowing for the "Coomy" open on March 20-21. Laubsch continues to work hard on his game practicing every day. The forgotten man to a certain extent has been Mildura's Ashley Whitehouse who was thought to be the "man most likely" to take over from Rhodes as the district number one. Whitehouse has played only sparingly over the summer but bobbed up at Coomealla on Saturday with a two under par 70.
Entries for the Coomealla Open are filling fast and could break the district record for the biggest local club Open ever.
Hunter Mahan Too Good in Phoenix
American Hunter Mahan (-16) produce two 6 under par 65's on the weekend to snatch the Phoenix Open by one shot form up and coming wiz kid Rickie Fowler (-15). Mahan didn't make a bogey at the weekend, in fact he didn't make a mistake at all. Adding to that was an immaculate putting stroke and he takes home the booty this week. Fowler is bound to be a star as he has the game, the looks and the wardrobe that has the American public drooling. It's almost as if they have forgotten Tiger's not playing. Well almost, but not quite. Korean Y E Yang (-14) looked like he was going to be the "man" until he drove it in the water on 17 and then didn't get "up and down". Best Aussie was Matt Goggin (-13) whilst Robert Allenby (-11) turned in another consistent performance. This week the spotlight falls on Florida for the Honda Classic with defending champion Y E Yang determined to go back to back after his strong finish in Phoenix. Rober Allenby was 5th here last year whilst the Honda was Stuart Appleby's first win in the States in the 90's.
Laura Davies Wins NZ Open
Englishwoman Laura Davies (-9) showed that her form is still very competitive when she won the Ladies NZ Open on Sunday. The win was her 73rd worldwide, she is very popular everywhere she tees it up. Australian Sarah Kemp (-8) was one of three players tied for second. The two big events on the Australian LPGA Tour are the ANZ Masters beginning on Thursday in Queensland and the Australian Open the following week in Melbourne.
Japan's Favourite Girl Wins in Singapore
In Japan Ai Miyazato is bigger than Texas. She is as big a star as any of the Japaneze men on tour, probably bigger and more popular than any local movie star. In Singapore on Sunday Miyazato (-10) won the HSBC Singapore Open a week after she won in Thailand. Both events are the opening two events on the US LPGA Tour. No one has won the first two events of the year on the US LPGA Tour for 44 years. The most famous lady to achieve the feat was probably Babe Zaharis back in 1951. Australia's best finish was Karrie Webb (-3).
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

22/2/10

Sunraysia's Hottest Golf Stars Burn Bright
If there was any doubt about the condition of local golf courses then the weekend scores of two of our local "stars" should clear up any doubt. Jake Laubsch scorched around Mildura on Saturday in a six under par 66! Not bad for a 16 year old who eats, drinks and sleeps golf. Over the river at Coomealla, 50 year old Greg Rhodes shot seven birdies, ten pars and one bogey also for a 66. Neither would have known the other's score but it wouldn't seem that way to the casual observer as both then went out on Sunday and shot 68's at their respective courses. Rhodes has played off scratch (0) or better for two decades but didn't get down to that mark until he was around 30 years of age. Master Laubsch on the other hand has reached that mark after his score on Sunday. What an effort. The 2010 Coomealla Open is on in three weeks time and it is sure to be an absolute cracker. Last year Laubsch came from three shots behind in the fourth round of the Coomealla golf club championships to overtake Rhodes and beat him head to head. No doubt both players will be working hard to maintain their form for the first local "major" of the year. Laubsch's win in the club championship was his first major win but he is yet to win a local club 36 hole Open. Rhodes of course, has won over 100 local Opens including around 16 at Coomealla.
Laubsch Wins Catholic Schools Event
Jake Laubsch took out the Catholic Secondary Schools Championship at Goonawarra Golf Club on Monday. Laubsch shot a two over par 74 to win the overall individual section. St Josephs Mildura were represented in the teams section by Laubsch, Tyler Verbeek (76) and Ryan Laird (80). Mildura golf club will conduct their junior championship on March 6-7 with the 7th (Sunday) scores being counted for the Sunraysia District Golf Association Junior Championship.
Poulter Too Good in Matchplay
The Aussies bombed out in Scottsdale Arizona at the weekend in the Accenture Matchplay Championship. Geoff Ogilvy has a 1-2-1 record there in the last three years but he lost in the second round as did Adam Scott and Robert Allenby. It was an all English final between Poulter and Paul Casey who was runner up to Ogilvy last year. Poulter created a bit of controversy a few years ago when he suggested that at his best, it would be between him and Tiger Woods as to who was the best golfer in the world. The Yanks loved that, not. After the weekend he "is" the best golfer in the world but that could change quickly if he doesn't win at his next start. Poulter played superbly on what can only be described as very severe test of golfing skill. The greens looked to have elephants buried under them as the slopes and borrows were horrendous. Obviously Poulter grows another leg when it comes to matchplay as he was sensational in the Ryder Cup 18 months ago. Casey missed most of last year with a rib injury but he looks fit and raring to go this year. Mark him down for a couple of wins on the US PGA Tour.
Tiger Woods
Everyone is having a yap about Tiger so here is my two bob's worth. It is unfortunate when we lose the perception of a hero. Tiger Woods was for all intents and purposes, just that, a hero. He was a hero not for just his golfing deeds but also for the way he carried himself, portrayed himself, in the public eye. He always seemed available to answer media interviews and at all times was vey polite and courteous. So, none of that persona has changed, what has changed is his personal behind the scenes, out of the public eye behaviour. No one, absolutely no one,condones those transgressions from anyone, let alone a hero. Whilst it is understood that there is a furore and he was probably too late in his media apology, for Gods sake, lets move on. He didn't kill anyone, sell drugs or burn a forest down. He has to repair his marriage, earn his wife's trust and get back to playing golf. He will get his due in more ways than one when he steps back onto the golf course. Then we will see how steely his resolve really is. Hopefully he will come back better than ever, I doubt it, but champions have a way of proving everyone wrong.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 03 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

1/2/10

END of an ERA
I began playing golf in the front yard of our home in Mildura with my father's left hand golf clubs in the mid 60's as a 13 year old. Two years later I used to ride my bike over the Mildura bridge and hire a half set of right handed golf clubs at the NSW Buronga caravan park. A nine hole sand scrape golf course gave me my first "go" at golf and though I didn't know it then, golf would become a huge part of my life twelve years later. Two knee reconstructions in 1980-81 was the signal that football was becoming too difficult to continue, so I took up playing golf in competitions. In 1987 new Coomealla golf professional Steve Darmody convinced me to open a golf shop for him in 9th street Mildura which became known as Steve's Golf Factory. I worked for Steve until 1993 when he went to Melbourne and then on to Sanctuary Cove on the Gold Coast where he is the head teaching professional. We changed the shop name to Sunraysia Golf Factory until December when it became House of Golf Mildura. I was bored in the early years and began to explore new ways of keeping busy including dreaming up new golf tournaments and concepts. In 1993 we began taking golf tours to other places which included New Zealand (5), Scotland & Ireland (1), Perth WA (3), Queensland (2), Tasmania (2) and several short trips to the Australian Open and Australian Masters. We also opened up a golf shop (Riverland Golf Factory) in Berri South Australia and ran on course pro shops at Mildura golf club (2 years) and Riverside golf club (12 years). During this time we ran three senior pro-ams at Riverside and ran numerous other events at the club. In 2004 the Sunraysia Veteran Golf Association appointed us to organise and direct the 2004 Australian Veteran Golf Championship where we hosted over 700 vets and their partners from all over Australia. It was huge, five golf courses hosting events every day for a week, a Deltones concert, a wine and jazz day at Trentham Estate Winery, three dinner dances on the Mundoo paddleboat, an opening cocktail party and closing dinner with over 700 in attendance. What hoot that was. This year we will host more people from New Zealand and all over Australia for the 54 hole 18th Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters where we play threee rounds of golf in three States in the one golf tournament. Kym and I are extremely proud of this tournament as over 4000 people have played in it and enjoyed it since 1993. Our "motto" for the week is "memories live longer than dreams and it's always nice to meet nice people".
Contact me with any golf information or opinions on fax 03 50247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

21/1/10

Wilmann Hotfoots it at Riverside
Steve Wilmann has won three club championships at Riverside Golf Club, on Sunday he added the Riverside summer Open to his list of credits in local golf. After 18 holes on Saturday he led the field comfortably from 16 year old Coomealla club champion Jake Laubsch and clubmate Troy Germane. On Sunday all three players came in level pegging so a play off was called for. Germane had played earlier in the day and had to come back to the golf course for the play off. During this time Wilmann took his new golf shoes off as they had caused blisters and sought the permission of the club officials to contest the play off in bare feet. Even though this would appear to contradict the dress rules of the club, permission was granted. The play off took place on the par 3 149 metre 18th in front of the clubhouse. This is a great golf hole that provides an ampitheatre effect for spectators and players alike. Germane was eliminated on the first sudden death hole but the other two continued for a further three holes. Wilmann eventually won with a par to Laubsch's bogey to become the district's first ever "barefoot champion". It is not known what the Royal and Ancient's attitude to barefoot golf is Riverside is a long way form Scotland!
Club President Mick Burke was delighted with the numbers this year which doubled the previous entry in 2009. He said yesterday "the golf course is improving daily and is getting back towards it's best ever condition".
Australia Day Golf in Mildura
A big turnout of golfers is anticipated at our local Sunraysia golf courses on Tuesday for Australia Day. Red Cliffs and Mildura will conduct ambrose events whilst Coomealla, Riverside, Wentworth and Merbein will have stableford events.
Hundreds of competiton golfers have been playing at local clubs over the summer as the weather has been reasonably moderate with only a few exceptionally hot days. There are few districts that offer a different course to play every day for a week where the green fees range between $20-$28.
New seasons Commence in Europe and USA
Australian professional golfers are set to dominate overseas this year with our biggest ever contingent qualified for the rich US PGA Tour and increased numbers in Europe. A lot of Australian are planning to play more events in Europe this year due to the second annual "Race to Dubai" which is Europe's version of the Fed EX Cup. Michael Sim is the boy most likely in the US after his superb year on the secondary Nationwide Tour in the US last year. Richard Green looks our best bet in Europe as he has had his foot on the till for the last two years. Irish youngster Rory Mcilroy could be the next "big thing" in golf this year on both tours after a brilliant season in 2009. Only time will tell if Sergio Garcia can take the next step and win a major which would elevate him the the top echelon. A lot will depend on whether Tiger Woods plays or when he comes back as to what happens on the US Tour.
Contact me on fax 03 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

13/1/10

Sunraysia Golf Courses Popular
Most local golf courses have reported increased patronage over the Christmas holiday period so far. Coomealla has been extremely busy with more than 2000 golfers flocking to play in daily competitions or socially. The golf course is without doubt in it's best ever condition and locals and visitors alike have lavished praise on it's condition. Mildura Golf Club have also been delighted with the increased traffic both in their on course motel and green fee traffic. Riverside and Red Cliffs have both been granted increased water allocations which has made a huge difference to their courses, subsequently the number of competition and green fee players has increased.
Ogilvy Follows in Appleby's Footsteps
Geoff Ogilvy won at Kapalua in Hawai for the second year in a row at the weekend in another excellent performance. Stuart Appleby won this tournament in 2004-05-06 so it will be interesting to see if Ogilvy can match that next year. The tournament is only open to the winners on the US PGA Tour in 2009 so only 28 lined up but naturally there were some handy golfers amongst them.
This week the Sony Open also in Hawai will be the second tournament on the US PGA Tour. Nine Aussies including Cameron Percy will line up in the event. Percy, of course lived for a number of years in Mildura where he attended primary school and his dad Ross was a top golfer for Coomealla golf club. Cameron was the last golfer to play with Tiger Woods, no doubt he would have been inundated with questions about the Tiger since. Imagine how the Yanks will play it up if he opens up with a top score in the Sony! Stuart Appleby, Robert Allenby, Marc Leishman, Jason Day, Natan Green, Nick O'Hern, Matt Jones and David Lutterus are the other Aussies. Hopefully one of them will win.
Contact me with any golfing news or information on fax 03 50247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

23/12/09

Coomealla Victorious
Coomealla golf club won their first SDGA Summer Pennant since 1988 at Wentworth on Sunday against Merbein. It turned into a bit of a comedy of errors after Coomealla won the first three matches to clinch the title. somehow though, the message went out to the last two match combatants that the scoeline was two one and the match was still "live". When Merbein won the last two games their players thought that they had won instead of losing 3/2. Coomealla deserved their win but having three teams in the competition you would expect them to have a good chance. Summer pennant has provided a great opportunity for new and aspiring winter pennant players to get a feel for the matchplay game. Different tactics and mindsets apply in matchplay golf compared to a straight stroke game. Most purists of the game love the matchplay format and events such as the Ryder Cup and the Presidents Cup have highlighted it's appeal, paricularly over the last decade when television has offered such brilliant coverage.
Cameron Pascoe Is Back!
Former Mildura junior Cameron Pascoe has rejoined Coomealla after a number of years out of the game. After being given a 9 handicap he blitzed around the normally testing Coomealla course on Wednesday in a two under par 70. The handicapper was most impressed with the performance and immeadiately reduced his handicap to 4! It really was a great performance, without doubt his best ever in this district.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au.
Good golfing to all.

16/12/09

Merbein Summer Pennant Favourites
Merbein Golf Club take their pennant very seriously and this focused determination should get them over the line against Coomealla Golf Club on Sunday at Wentworth in the SDGA Summer Pennant final. Coomealla fielded three teams in Summer Pennant this year which is indicitive of the strength of the club currently. Adding a bit of spice to the final will be the inclusion of at least one ex Merbein member who now plays for Coomy. Good luck to both teams.
Allenby Back to Back
Robert Allenby has been a bit of a Jekel and Hyde in his playing exploits in Australia in the last few years but on Sunday that may have been put to bed. At least for the forseeable future. My wife commented while watching the tournament "what a terrible swing he has got". What she meant was it looks different to say, an Adam Scott or Stuart Appleby who have more classic style swings. Allenby could just about have landed it on a ten cent piece at the weekend, such was his accuracy with his shots into the green. It also seems that since he has switched to his "claw" like putting grip, his putting has improved out of sight. It just goes to show that golf is definitely between the ears because it wasn't that long ago he was happy with his swing and putting grip and he was playing well. Sometimes a golfer can get a new lease on life just by making some simple changes to set up which improves mind set. I love watching great golf swings but enjoy even more viewing golfers like, Rod Pampling, Craig Parry, Nick O'Hern, Sergio Garcia who each have different swings but achieve great results. Think back to Lee Trevino and Arnold Palmer who had wierd looking swings but are immortals in the game of golf for what they achieved. I used to like watching Jim Furyk until he started backing off two or three times after looking like he was ready to play his shot. Next year should be our best ever on the US PGA Tour with so many Aussies qualified to play every week. Who knows though, what the tour will be like with the uncertainty that the Tiger Woods furore has caused. Golf has been on everyone's lips for over a month now and even though it has been for the wrong reasons it has also heightened interest in our Australian Open and PGA tournaments.
Contact me on fax 03 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

9/12/09

Great Scott
It was great to see Adam Scott finally win in Australia. New South Wales is such a demanding golf course, particularly in the wind. When Scott is on song with his putter he is very hard to beat as his general play is usually superb. I was hoping for Stuart Appleby but it seems that when the wind stopped blowing he couldn't maintain his brilliant form of the first two days. The Australian Open was abit of a non event compared to the Masters previously in Melbourne when Tiger was here. It was virtually all Aussies with no foreign contingent to speak of. The upside of that however, is that it was an all Aussie finish. This week Coolum will host all of our big names with even Allenby fronting up after his great win in South Africa. I fancy either Matt Goggin or Greg Chalmers.
Summer Pennant
The two Coomealla teams meet in one semi final of the Sunraysia District Golf Association summer pennant this Sunday whilst Mildura will play Merbein in the other semi. Merbein look favoured to win so they will meet Coomealla in the final Sunday week.
Tiger Troubles
Everyone is talking about Tiger, whilst most people are focusing on his indiscretions I am more concerned about how it is going to affect the golfing industry. Make no mistake, Tiger Woods is much much bigger to golf than what Michael Jordan was to basketball and what Federer is to tennis. When he plays the attendance at tournaments almost doubles, TV ratings go up, sponsors come out of the woodwork and so on and so on. That was before, the golfing world is waiting with baited breath to see what happens next. In Australia his presence at the Masters put golf on the front page of the papers and lots of non golfing people became interested in golf. Hopefully his scandalous off course behaviour won't have a reverse affect on youngsters or any new beginner taking up golf. No one condones his "other life" but it doen't take away his brilliance as arguably the greatest golfer of all time.
Contact me with any golfing information on fax 03 50 246799 or Emial golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

2/12/09

Great Golfing Weekend
This should be a great weekend of golf with the Aussie Open, Nedbank Challenge in South Africa and Tiger's tournament in Los Angeles. New South Wales is one of my favourite golf courses in Australia with the fifth and sixth holes simply outstanding golf holes. I like Stuart Appleby this week as he plays wind courses so well having won three times in Hawai. Robert Allenby is my pick in the Nedbank but that is probably more in hope than anything else. He is the only Aussie in the tournament so heres hoping. In America I am tipping Ian Poulter as he has had a good year and is overdue for a win.
Sunraysia Golf Promotion
I am pleased to report that things are moving in the right direction with regard to possible assistance from Mildura Rural City Council for the 2010 major Sunraysia golf events. We have some fantastic golf courses in Mildura and district and we really need let people know through advertisements in golf magazines and papers. After speaking with four MRC councillors who agree in principle with what I have proposed to them a further meeting will take place next Monday.
Contact me with any golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

25/11'09

Changing of the Guard
The official 2009 golf season is over with all of the districts major events now completed. There is no doubt that 2009 has been a significant year of change. Most notably, a new golf club in Broken Hill being included under the auspices of the Sunraysia District Golf Association. Time will tell how successful this will be but if nothing else it certainly gave district pennant a shot in the arm. Coomealla have taken over from Mildura as the dominant force in men's pennant. Mildura were the team to beat in most of the last twenty five years but Coomealla with it's huge membership base have taken over that mantle. Broken Hill could be the X factor after finishing second it it's inaugural pennant season. Greg Rhodes is still the district's number one golfer over the last twelve months but 2009 wasn't his best. Ashley Whitehouse holds his position at number two and probably Justin McPhee would be at number three. Jake Laubsch is the name on most people's lips now, when it comes to nominating the possible number one status in 2010. Laubsch finished the year in ground breaking style when he took out the Coomealla Golf Club championship in November beating Rhodes head to head. At 16 with the drive and ambition he possesses the sky is the limit for big Jake who importantly enjoys tremendous family support. There would be few golfers in the district, old or young who practise anywhere near as much as he does, so he deserves every success. Joe Violi won Riverside's club championship in a great story after twenty attempts. Joe has played more rounds of golf in the last twenty years than anyone else in the district, so, once again Ben Hogan's quote of "the more I practise, the luckier I get" is proven. Whilst on good stories, Roger Walder's win in the club championship at Merbein was another great result. Roger has endured health problems over the last couple of years but rose to the occasion when it counted most to secure a position in Merbein Golf Club's history. Justin McPhee is approaching "best ever" status at Red Cliffs with outstanding performances in all of Red Cliffs major events this year. Ashley Whitehouse has built a great reputation since coming from Horsham fifteen years ago and he looks certain to be the main man at Mildura for years to come. Matt Lynch has a stranglehold on the number one position at Wentworth Golf Club but it would be great to see him play in all of our major tournaments and force his way into the Country Week team. At this point it appears that Greg Rhodes, Ashley Whitehouse and Tim Petersen won't be available so replacements will be required. Jake Laubsch, Ryan Laird, Tyler ver Beek and Tim Walker are our top juniors and next in line but Lynch would also represent good value if he committed to the team. From a club perspective, Coomealla goes from strength to strength, Mildura is moving forward and gathering momentum. Riverside and Red Cliffs look stronger after both clubs have been able to secure long term water. Merbein is hoping to have all eighteen holes in play by January and Wentworth's greens are still the best in the district. All in all golf in Sunraysia is still very strong and being played by more local people both competition wise and socially than any other sport.
Changing of the Guard Part Two
After 23 years at the Sunraysia Golf Factory in ninth street I have decided to step aside. In 1987 we opened the district's first stand alone golf shop and it has been a pleasure to serve the golfers of Sunraysia and the many thousands of visiting golfers. My son Garth and his wife Sally who run the Sunraysia Golf Range will take over the shop soon giving the district two House of Golf outlets. I intend to stay on in a part time capacity and help out. We are expect two more grand children in the next five months which will take the tally to eight. So with the part time work, grandchildren, 18th Annual Tri-State Masters in May and more golf to play Kym and I are looking forward to 2010. As this will be the last 19th hole for the year in the Sunraysia Daily you can catch up with local, national and international golf news on our web site at www.sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Have a happy and safe Christmas and New Year and most importantly - good golfing to all.

18/11/09

Golf Tournament Tourism
If ever there was a great example of the impact a golf tournament can have on tourism it was the 2009 Australian Masters. This was a golf tournament that was in decline. In recent years band aide promotions were used to try and prop the tournament up, such as the John Daly side show. Greg Norman had made the tournament in the 80's and 90's and the crowds flocked to Huntingdale to see him win six titles but in the last ten years the crowds had slowly dropped each year. This year though, someone came up with the great idea of getting Tiger Woods and look at what happened. Hotels were full, restaurants were overflowing and everyone has been talking golf. In Mildura we have a similar opportunity, all be it on a much smaller scale, to attract golfers from all over Australia and New Zealand to some of our major tournaments. In past years Mildura Golf Week used to attract large numbers of golfers in August, the Tri-State Masters in May also hosted golfers from all corners of Australia. The 2004 Australian Veteran Championship field of 700 in Mildura was the biggest tournament in the event's history. We used to have a Pro-Am circuit here and more recently a Senior Pro-Am circuit. Sadly all of these tournaments are either down in numbers or not even conducted any more. If the Mildura Rural City Council/Major Events/Mildura Tourism had someone within it's ranks who had the foresight to see what is possible in terms of assisting with the promotion and exposure of these events then the sky is the limit. Make no mistake, if $15,000 was allocated to the promotion of a program of events including, Tri-State Masters, Mildura Golf Week, Coomealla Senior Championship. Robinvale Festival of Golf and the Rivertowns Classic then an aggregate target of 1000 plus visiting golfers can be achieved. One thousand golfers staying for a minimum of six nights with spending equates to a minimum of $1,000,000 into this community. That money then goes around five times in a tourism sense. Not bad for a $15 per head investment is it? On top of the above mentioned events we have eight local golf club open tournaments that could be included on the program which would begin in April and conclude in October. We have the infrastructure, the golf courses, the accommodation, the restaurants and the weather. All that is needed is a promotional plan and the financial support from Council to facilitate it. Do we have a John Brumby in our council ranks?
Golf Club Committees
This month most district golf clubs will be conducting their AGM's. Along with reports on how their club's have traded over the last twelve months and what plans are in place for the future, new committee's will be elected. The leadership and direction provided by the committee usually dictates, to a large degree, the success of the club. Obviously, luck plays a big part as well, rain and irrigation, for instance or the lack of it can determine the condition of a golf course which impacts on how many people play the course. On the surface it seems that most of our golf clubs are clawing their way back after some fairly tough times over the last four years or more. If you feel you can assist with the development of your golf club then put your hand up for committee. Apart from helping your club you will feel a sense of satisfaction from assisting the progress of something that is important in your life.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

11/11/09

Sunraysia's New Golfing Star
Jake Laubsch turned 16 in September and was chosen to represent Sunraysia at Melbourne Country Week in October as a caddy. The district's senior golfing officials recognised his talent and thought that a week of mixing, observing and playing with Sunraysia's elite golfers would accelerate his progress. That week Jake was fortunate to be chosen to carry Greg Rhode's bag and observe the champion at what he does best. "He was awesome, he just kept hitting fairways and greens, hole after hole. I really enjoyed watching him play and learnt a lot during the week" Laubsch said on Sunday. One month later and the Coomealla Club Championship were waiting for the challengers to arrive. Greg Rhodes was the favourite as usual but one person thought Jake Laubsch was a good chance to win this year. Jake's brother Nick predicted the day before the championship began that "my brother is one of the main chances to win this year". An opening 75 left him four behind Greg Rhodes but a great round of 70 in the second round made Nick's prediction look on the money. Jake was only three shots behind but the job looked tough for the newcomer at this level. In round three on Saturday Rhodes had 74 so Laubsch's 75 left him four stokes behind. The seeded group in the last round on Sunday was Rhodes, Laubsch, Sean Baumgurtel who had had a superb 70 on Saturday and Cameron Stewart. This was the first time that the youngster had played in a senior seeded group in a major tournament. "I was just so nervous all day playing with Greg, Jake said, but he is so good to play with. My mum caddied for me on Saturday and Sunday which was great". After 14 holes Laubsch had drawn level with Rhodes but he didn't start thinking about that until after he birdied 12 and 13 but then Rhodes birdied 14. "I then said to mum, I probably shouldn't tell you this but Greg and I are level". To which she replied "No, you shouldn't have told me". Rhodes hooked his tee shot badly on 15 but recovered brilliantly to hit the green with his second shot, only to three putt. Laubsch then bogeyed 16 after going bunker to bunker from the fairway. All square going down 17 where Rhodes again three putted giving young Laubsch the lead for the first time in the championship, after he had made par. Both players parred 18 with the junior holding his nerve to win by one solitary stroke against Sunraysia's greatest ever golfer.. What a day for the youngest ever club champion at Coomealla Golf Club. On Sunday night he spoke of his goals and where he needs to improve. "My main goal was to break 300, so to have 290 was good. I was happy with most of my game, I only had 27 putts today, but my bunker play wasn't good, getting up and down only once for the championship. It was so good to win because all day today I was as nervy as hell". Greg Rhodes would no doubt be disappointed in his performance with the putter. If he takes 27 putts he breaks 70 but the flat stick is the only part of Greg's game that isn't A plus, it is a continual source of frustration. In third place was Sean Baumgurtel only three shots back and four better than Rhodes over the last 54 holes in a great performance. This year has been a really good one for "boomer" as he has played some great golf and importantly, achieved consistency. As for the Laubsch family, they're all at Kingston Heath this week doing some Tiger spotting.
Australian Masters
Australia's best golf course Kingston Heath, will host the world's best golfer Tiger Woods, over the next four days in what promises to be a ground breaking week for Australian golf. The biggest void in golf clubs right across Australia is young people, the exposure that this event, and in particular, Tiger Woods, will give the game of golf is enormous. Greg Norman attracted young people to take up golf in the 80's but these days you can go to any golf club on a Saturday afternoon and you will discover that more than 70 per cent of the golfers playing are over 50. Golf clubs, like any sporting club need young people taking up the sport and joining in club competitions. Golf is like a religion to many who play it. It is about excitement and emotion more than actually winning or losing. Let's hope that Tiger plays really well but an Aussie wins on Sunday. Someone like Michael Sim, John Senden or even Adam Scott.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

4/11/09

The Man and the Boy
The 2009 Coomealla Golf Club Championships hit off in hot conditions on Saturday with a stronger than usual morning contingent of players. Of the favoured contestants Andrew Stewart was the best in with a 75 followed by Ashley Whitehouse on 78 and Jacob Slimmon with 80. It was clear that the morning conditions hadn't produced the lower scores usually expected. Slimmon is currently living in Horsham and has beefed up considerably due to the manual nature of his employment installing a pipe line. Whitehouse would have been hoping for much better whilst Stewart would have been reasonably satisfied with three over par. Standout performance of the morning came from Phil Moisidis who, off a 10 handicap had 75 off the stick and Brendan Dean who also recorded a 75. Second best score of the day came from up and coming junior Ryan Laird who bogey the last two holes for 74. Laird only played the first round as he is away this weekend. The afternoon players rolled up and eventually the field of 134 players had all hit off in the oppressive conditions. Wentworth footballer Zac McGlynn is not known for his golfing abilities but he had a day out with 93 less his 27 handicap for a nett 66. The district's number one junior Jake Laubsch played good golf for a 75 and virtually sewing up the junior title, all be it with three rounds to go. Sean Baumgurtel had 77 and Cameron Stewart 79. Greg Rhodes hit 16 greens in regulation for a one under par 71 to lead the tournament by four shots. To put the round in perspective, 71 is a good score but to putt for 16 birdies and only be one under is not a good return. Sunday came and again the weather was, Mildura in summer, although it is only spring. Ninety four players had entered the championship and the contenders were dropping out very quickly. Whitehouse followed up his 78 with a 79 and won't be there this weekend after he looked like the man most likely to challenge Rhodes pre tournament. Slimmon improved slightly with 77 but is way out of contention after two great championships in 2007-08. Cam Stewart hit back with a solid 73 to be in fourth place and Sean Baumgurtel excelled with a 71. Baumgurtel has had some great rounds this year but struggles to put two together. Hopefully this weekend he will continue to climb the leader board and get some reward for lots of effort and expense. Rhodes again was Rhodes with another 71. He would not be pleased with two under par and will be aiming for 68's this weekend. Sounds crazy doesn't it? Everyone one else in the field would be rapt with two 71's but we are talking about Rhodes and he of a much higher standard. The story of the day and the championship so far was year 10 student Jake Laubsch who shot a fantastic 70. Laubsch is not unlike Rhodes in stature and looks more like a footballer or basketballer but he has an ability to hit a golf ball and hit it really well. Whilst sitting only three shots behind Rhodes it would be unlikely that a boilover is on the cards, but, stranger things have happened. The best thing to emerge though, from this championship is the emergence of two likely replacements for our country week team next year - Laubsch and Laird.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

28/10/9

Coomealla Club Championship
Greg Rhodes and Ashley Whitehouse are the men to beat in the 2009 Coomealla Golf Club championship beginning this weekend. Both men finished equal first in the Wentworth Open which was the districts most recent Open tournament. Rhodes has been a bit out of sorts, form wise, as he has drifted back from a plus two handicap to the lofty mark of scratch. Four round club championships are what he thrives on, so don't be surprised if he is not back to plus two by the end of the championship. Whitehouse has not played as much competitive golf lately, so he will be coming into the event relatively fresh. Jacob Slimmon has been a big factor in the past two championships and is capable of putting some low numbers on the board. Sean Baumgurtel has also lifted his ranking this year and Cameron and Andrew Stewart are usually thereabouts. The junior section of the championship will also be a keenly contested affair between Jake Laubsch, Ryan Laird, Tim Walker and Tyler Ver Beek.
It will be interesting to see how many members play all four rounds this year as the timing of the start of the championship is not ideal. Entry cost is $20 for the championship or $6 for those only playing daily.
Rivertowns Classic
Local golfers dominated the annual Rivertowns Classic at the weekend with all three 54 hole winners coming from Mildura golf club resort. The tournament was conducted at Loxton, Wentworth and Mildura golf club's. The top three players included Fred Stewart in A grade, Frank Poole in B grade and Bev Stone for the ladies. Entries for the Rivertowns Classic conducted were significantly down on previous years. This is a problem being faced by all local tournament organisers that are endeavouring to bring golfing visitors to our district. The only way that we can attract far away golfers to play in local events is to advertise and promote our tournaments in other districts and cities. From personal experience it is a waste of time contacting Mildura Tourism for any assistance. Golfers staying for six nights or more are not equal apparently, to other visitors for other events and festivals. After a meeting recently it appears our tourism heirachy is happy to get behind almost any other event, festival or television show, particularly if it is a one off. Golf tournaments that attract good spenders to the town add to tourism numbers but it was made quite clear that the responibility to attract them is not Mildura Tourism's. The problem is that if our local golfing tournaments continue the downward trends of recent years, then fairly soon there will be no more Golf Week's, Tri-State Masters, Robinvale Festivals of Golf or Rivertowns Classic's. By then though there will probably be another tourism CEO and it will be his or her problem, or will it?
Curators Golf Day
Wentworth Golf Club are conducting their famous (or should it be infamous) Curators Golf Day on Saturday November 7th. The event is a medley ambrose in teams of four and basically it is open to any golfer who can hold a golf club. In past years the curator has stuck the pins in some pecular spots on the greens, well just on the greens. Most participants have really enjoyed the fun of the day and with an ambrose everyone gets to have a go at the putts irrespective of how curly they are. Great prizes and a mjor raffle will be drawn at the conclusion of the golf. Entry of $10 includes golf and a BBQ lunch. For more information contact the club.
Contact me with any golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

21/10/9

Violi Riverside Club Champion
Joe Violi came from three shots behind to win the 2009 Riverside Club Championship on Sunday, completing his last round of 75 in the morning in virtual anonymity. Traditionally the last round at Riverside is seeded with the top four players coming up the 18th at 5pm, to be greeted by a waiting crowd in front of the clubhouse. Violi who is known for his introvertedness chose not to be in the seeded group on Sunday and was off the course by the time the seeded group hit off. The third round of the championship on Saturday was highlighted by a par round of 72 by Troy Germane. To shoot par in a club championship is very special, particularly as it was the best individual round by any player in the tournament. Germane has been on the cusp of becoming a top A grader for some years, during which he also played football. This year he would have claims of being one of the districts most improved golfers. Germane splits his competition days between Mildura whom he played pennant for, Coomealla and Riverside. After shooting par he lay only one behind the 54 hole leader Steve Wilmann who had shot a 77. Joe Violi had also had 77 to be three behind Wilmann. Germane also played on Sunday morning due to work commitments in the afternoon but shot a disappointing 82. This left Steve Wilmann with the task of shooting a 77 to win his fourth club championship. Wilmann could not achieve this and finished with an 80 and the runner up prize. When the presentations took place the new champion was nowhere to be seen despite the frantic attempts of officials to locate him. Joe Violi is no stranger to the limelight however, as a seven time qualifier in the Sunraysia Matchplay Championship and also as a member of the Sunraysia Country Week team. He was the inaugural Tri-State Masters champion in 1993 and 94 and also featured at the pointy end of the leaderboard in several club open tournaments during the 90's. Now in his mid fifties he prefers to go as unnoticed as possible even though he has been one of Riverside's top golfers for twenty years. Scores of 76-75-77-75-303 is good golf in anyone's language. Some will argue that Steve Wilmann was disadvantaged by knowing what he had to shoot when the other two didn't. Others will suggest that either way you still have to play the shots and get the ball in the hole. Whatever the opinion, Joe Violi is on the honour board as the 2009 Riverside Golf Club champion.
Hogan Fires up at Red Cliffs
Former club president and semi retiree Michael Hogan had a day out at Red Cliffs on Saturday when he shot a career best 76 off the stick. "Hoges" is quite a popular figure at the "Cliffs" but he was being slated as a bushranger on Saturday night when his score netted back to 62. He will now play off a 12 handicap after losing two shots. Past captain Robert "Muscles" Lawn returned to the winners list in B grade after a few years in the paddock. An 85 off the stick less 21 handicap reducing back to nett 64 saw him salute for the first time in a few years. A lot of past Red Cliffs players are starting to turn up at Red Cliffs which is perhaps due to the improved condition of the course and the reduced membership fees, or maybe just because Red Cliffs is a great place to play golf with lots of other nice people.
Rivertowns Classic
Entries are still being taken for the annual Rivertowns Classic beginning at Loxton on Friday. Day two is at Wentworth with the final day at the Mildura Golf Club Resort. The tournament is open to both men and ladies with some fantastic trophies on offer this year. Phone Mildura Golf Club Resort on 50 231147 for more details.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

14/10/9

Wilmann on track for three peat at Riverside
Steve Wilmann is well placed to win his third club championship in a row at Riverside Golf Club this weekend after rounds of 73-75. Wilmann shot a one over par 73 on Saturday to be the equal overnight leader with Chris Thomas. Wilmann is hoping to join four other players who have won three championships in a row including Tim Petersen, Mick Innes, Robert Veit and Bill Caffrey. "Computer" Joe Violi is placed second after 36 holes due to two consistent rounds of 76-75. Violi has been one of Riverside's most consistent golfers over the last 16 years but has never really been in contention after 54 holes in previous years. For some reason he has never played well enough for long enough in the championships. There are lots of Riverside people who would be delighted if he could maintain his form for 72 holes and take out the championship this year. Chris Thomas is five shots back running third after 73-80 and will be looking to repeat his great first round form on Saturday. Riverside were pleased with their field of 72 players which is the second biggest championship field in the district behind Coomealla Golf Club.
Rivertowns Classic
Entries are open for the annual 54 hole Rivertowns Classic to be conducted at Loxton Golf Club on Friday October 23, Wentworth Golf Club on Saturday October 24 and Mildura Golf Club on Sunday October 25. Both men's and ladies sections are available to district golfers and a bus will be available on the Friday to Loxton. Entries and information are available at Mildura Golf Club
Stableford Shootout
The third annual Stableford Shootout qualifying has commenced at Coomealla Golf Club. Entry is $25 and is open to any Coomealla Golf Club member. The top 19 single stableford scores between now and the end of February will qualify and then go into a shootout on Sunday March 7th. The nineteen qualifyers all hit off together, then one player is eliminated on each hole until two players remain to play off for the main prize on the 18th. The first prize is usually around a $500 gift voucher to the club and prizes go down to fourth. One good score in five months is all you need to do to qualify. Contact the club for more information.
Presidents Cup
The US once again wiped the floor with the International team in the Presidents Cup in San Francisco at the weekend. Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Steve Stricker were in superlative form and our top liners couldn't measure up. Best performers for the International team were South Africa's Tim Clarke and Japan's 18 year old sensation Ryo Ishikawa. The next Presidents Cup will be played at Royal Melbourne in 2011 where the Internationals only victory was achieved in 1998.
The other big news in the world of golf is that golf will become an Olympic sport in 2016 with the top 120 players in the world rankings contesting a 72 hole championship for the gold, silver and bronze medals.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

7/10/9

Riverside On Track
Riverside Golf Club will commence their 2009 club championships on Saturday and the club is confidently anticipating a bigger entry than in 2008. Steve Wilmann is a hot favourite to take out his third title in a row which would give him four club championships in total. Club captain Jim Henshilwood said yesterday " The golf course is really on the improve and our members are delighted with the progress being made by our course curator Brendan Marr and his staff. After a couple of down years Riverside through the help and support of more than 30 volunteers is on track. All departments of the club are ticking over and really it has been a great team effort by so many people". After much consultation and negotiations with Mildura Rural City Council a workable outcome water wise has been achieved, which is great for Riverside and and the entire golfing community. The club has also turned around it's finances which are looking healthy after a period that looked somewhat bleak. In the last few years new greens have been added on the first, second, sixth and fourteenth and the third will be renovated after the club championships. Jack Thomas will begin duties as the club secretary manager soon and as such should deliver an increased professionalism to the administration and day to day running of the club. Club president Mick Burke has a good working committee behind him and if everything planned comes to fruition the picturesque Riverside will certainly be back on track. The club AGM will be conducted on November 10th.
Country Week
Our boys have returned home from Golf Week with mixed feelings. Firstly it was a great result to maintain our place in the premier division after several years in the seconds and thirds. Sunraysia faces a tough task to maintain that position as the further you are from Melbourne the harder it is. Just ask Swan Hill (Northern District) or the North Central clubs of Kara Kara who are always in third division. Unless we continue to turn over new up and comers then we too will filter back through the lower divisions again. One pleasing aspect was that our mid range players in Justin McPhee, Leigh Fuller, Andrew and Cameron Stewart did well winning ten matches between them but we struggled at the top and bottom end. Mind you, some of the players that Greg Rhodes, Ashley Whitehouse and Tim Petersen played were almost professional amateurs who compete at the highest level on a regular basis and live in Melbourne. Until the rules are changed so that only golfers who live in the country are eligible for Country Week then it will not be a level playing field.
Pooncarie Canadian Foursomes
Pooncarie Golf Club will conduct it's annual Canadian Foursomes tournament this Saturday. It has been a big week at the "Port" with the Pooncarie Cup and to play on a bush golf course such as Pooncarie really is an experience. Someone remarked once that having played Pooncarie it was the "best course of it's type" he had ever played. Golf begins with an 11am start and teams will be drawn on the day. For more information phone Pat on 50 295272.
Contact me with any golf information or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

30/9/9

Country Championship
Greg Rhodes was Sunraysia's top performer in the 2009 Country Championship held at Rossdale Golf Club and Royal Melbourne Golf Club on Monday and Tuesday. Rhodes shot 72 at Rossdale and followed it up with a 75 at Royal Melbourne. Cameron Stewart played consistently with 74-75 and Tim Petersen had 76 at Rossdale including a hole in one and 73 at Royal Melbourne. Ashley Whitehouse played great golf on Monday for a 71 but slipped back yesterday with 79 as did Sean Baumgurtel 71-83. Team captain Justin McPhee played steadily for 75-76. All players were excited about playing at Royal Melbourne which is rated in the top ten courses in the world. Today our boys play 36 holes across the road from Royal Melbourne at Victoria Golf Club, which was Geoff Ogilvy's home club in his amateur days. Tomorrow it's off to Cranbourne for 36 holes and finally to Kingston Heath for the last round of matches on Friday. The team is really looking forward to playing at the "Heath" which will host the Australian Masters for the first time in November. Tiger Woods will play in the Masters this year which is sold out already, which surely is a first for a golf tournament in Australia.
SDGA Mixed Foursomes Championship
It was interesting to read the comments by the Sunraysia District Golf Association president Greg McCubbin on Monday regarding the lack of support by most clubs and their members for the recent SDGA foursomes championship. Perhaps the lack of promotion of district events is the key element to the problem. How many district golfers knew the event was on? This event has drawn 70-80 golfers in recent years but it received reasonably good coverage in those years and people knew it was on and where it was being played. It is true, unfortunately, that some clubs tend to promote their own events to try and keep their members at their club rather than events at other clubs. There is a real us and them mentality between some clubs which seems to be more prevalent than it ever used to be, which is not good. The SDGA as the governing body should really be working towards bringing the clubs together and promoting their events. It is not enough just mentioning it to the club delegates at each monthly meeting and hoping it will be passed on. Unless some sort of pro active strategy is adopted by the SDGA then the SDGA tournaments will slowly die and that would be a real shame.
Golden Oldies
Mildura Golf Club's Ernie Tyrell recently achieved a lifelong ambition in golf at the ripe old age of 62 years and ten months. Ernie broke down to a single figure handicap (9) last week after years of trying. There are very few golfers in Sunraysia who put as much into their golf as Ernie, so it was great to see him achieve his ambition. To put it into perspective, less than 5 per cent of club golfers play off single figures. Another man who also hit single figures at the same age was Vince Dichiera who plays at Mildura and Coomealla. Vince got down to an eight handicap at 62 years of age three years ago after playing in the low teens at Wentworth for years. Last week he equalled his best round at Coomealla with a 76 off the stick and followed it up with a 78 on Sunday. I would be interested to hear from anyone who reached single figures at a similar age or who has a story to tell.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

23/9/9

Big Country Week This Year
Sunraysia is back in the the big time at Melbourne Country Week this year playing in division one for the first time in five years. Since 2004 Sunraysia dropped back to division two, then three but has won those divisions in 2007-08 to climb back in the top echelon of country golf. The challenge now is to do well this year, at the very least, hold our position and not drop back. The team welcomes back Greg Rhodes who hasn't played the last couple of years, he will add some class to our top end. Ashley Whitehouse and Tim Petersen are our other two top enders that need to play really well. Historically Rhodes and Whitehouse have performed well but it is the mid range and bottom end players who have struggled. Team Captain Justin McPhee has finished off our domestic season really well and if he can win his share of games that will be a bonus. Other mid range players who need to step up are the Stewarts, Cameron and Andrew who have both been to Country Week for the last ten years. The back end of the team includes Leigh Fuller, Jake Slimmon and Sean Baumgurtel and their contributions will be quite significant because a win at one or nine carries the same points. Make no mistake, at this level and on these unfamiliar courses, all of our players need to be at their best to be competitive. Twenty years ago Ross Percy was dropped down the order to play at number nine and was thereafter nicknamed the "cretin crusher". He was pencilled in as a win before a ball was hit meaning that only four of the other eight needed to win for the team to be victorious. In matchplay, golf tactics quite often become the game as all you are trying to do is beat your opponent. This is where the matchplay game is so different to a normal stroke play tournament where the lowest total wins. In matchplay you can sometimes win a hole with a double bogey, not very often mind you, but it can happen. This year the courses to be used are absolute mint, including Royal Melbourne, Cranbourne, Victoria and Kingston Heath. Other districts in our division include last year's winners Peninsula, Geelong, Goulburn Valley, Bendigo and Ballarat. Peninsula have been the dominant district at Country Week for the last thirty years, which is no great surprise as they are basically metropolitan with the majority of their team playing Melbourne district pennant every year. Geelong is in the same boat. We are the furtherest district from Melbourne and the most disadvantaged in a golfing sense so it would be fantastic to succeed this year. It has been a great story so far over the last two years and the opportunity now exists for the ultimate finale. To win the title we will need to win at least twenty five contests if we were to win each match 5/4. For this to happen our top four players need to contribute at least 13 wins and the bottom five players at least 12 wins. Good luck to all involved.
Festival of Golf
Robinvale golf club will conduct their 37th Festival of Golf commencing on Saturday and running through to Sunday October 4th. The 36 hole mens and ladies championships will be played on Sunday and Monday. A host of mixed and 4BB events make up a great nine days of golf and attracts people from many other districts. Entries are still being taken so contact the club on 50 263286.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

16/9/9

Coomealla Senior Championship
Pat Giles from Goonawarra golf club was the winner of the third annual Coomealla Senior Championship last week. Giles recorded a four stroke win over Cobram Barooga's Ross Percy after rounds of 76-73-77. In the last round Giles began nervously bogeying the first four holes but recovered his composure to par the back nine and cruise to victory. Coomealla were well represented in B grade where Trevor Carroll won from Graham McLellan and Ken Forster took out C grade. The tournament was a great success and possibly presents an opportunity to grow the week by having two additional separate 18 hole events at Riverside and Mildura. These additional events would make the trip to Mildura even more attractive. With 530 players having teed it up in senior tournaments around the State so far this year, who knows, maybe we could attract 200-300 if the package was right? The age of 55 and over represents at least sixty per cent of most club golfers so why not expand the week with more events and functions? It was really interesting talking to golfers from so many different clubs and hearing a bit about their clubs, families and so forth. Four of the players have sons who are playing professionals including Cameron Percy who has qualified for the US PGA tour next year where they tee it up for $5 million every week. I played with Peter Bence who started work as a member of the crew at channel 7 on World of Sport, then graduated to a cameraman and finally directed the show for five years. The club house afterwards really is a great place to be with so many stories from so many blokes from so many different walks of life.
Country Teams
The North West Ladies representative golf team had a miserable time, golf wise, in Melbourne last week. The late withdrawal of number one player Michelle Fumberger seemed to affect the confidence of the team and their performance as they all had to step up one spot. Playing Kara Kara first up gave our girls a great start but it was all up hill from there with three losses against Wimmera and East and West Gippsland. Rhonda Young was our best performer with three wins whilst Nycole Roirdan, Fran Richards and Eily Raeck all won two matches. Somehow we need to find a few new young ladies who can step up and inject some new energy into the team. Apart from the golf results it was a great week which was enjoyed by the players, caddies and officials alike.
Whitehouse Wins at Mildura
Ashley Whitehouse won his seventh club championship at Mildura on Saturday by a comfortable 13 shots. A one over par 73 was a tremendous round in the gale force conditions that blew the scores out for most golfers all over the district. Whitehouse is a gifted player who responds well in adverse conditions. Runner up was Andrew Stewart with brother Cameron in third place. Jake Laubsch got up by one stroke to win the junior championship from Ryan Laird. Both lads went hammer and tong to the last hole with big Jake just pip little Ryan. Results of all competitions can be found on the impressive Mildura Golf and Country Club web site.
Red Cliffs Chicken & Champagne
All district ladies should pencil in the annual chicken & champagne 4BBB day at Red Cliffs golf club next Wednesday September 23rd. This is a great day where the Red Cliffs men pamper the ladies with champagne, orange juice and nibbles around the course and a delightful two course lunch. Phone captain Jill Eyles on 50 2431379 or 0409527769 to book in but don't leave it too late or you will miss out.
Contact me with any golf information on 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

9/9/9

Northwest Ladies Country Teams
Northwest ladies Country Teams representative team suffered a blow when Michelle Fumberger was unable to take her place in the team this week. On Monday the team got off to a great start at Long Island golf club beating Kara Kara 5/2. Winners for the locals were Sue Laird, Nycole Riordan, Fran Richards, Eily Raeck and Rhonda Young. In the second match Wimmera just pipped the girls 4/3 after three contests went to the 18th hole where Northwest lost two of those. Nycole Riordan and Rhonda Young both won again and Julie McEwan won a nail biter at the 18th. Yesterday the team played at Peninsula golf club and needed to win both matches against East Gippsland and West Gippsland to advance to division two next year.
Coomealla Senior
Yarra Yarra's Michael Jackson (75) was the equal leader with The Sands Cam Muller after the first round of the Coomealla Seniors Championship on Monday. Jackson got off to a great start parring the first nine holes but stumbled coming in with a 39 around the back nine. Muller went out in 39 but parred the back nine to put himself on top of the leaderboard. Muller has been coming to Sunraysia for many years as his wife's parents live in Mildura and knows the Coomealla course well. Muller was somewhat a surprise leader as his best finish this year was an equal second at Lonsdale back in early February. Coomealla set their course up in much more user friendly way than in last years tournament which was great for all who played. At the end of the day it is a senior tournament for older golfers and Coomealla can destroy a golfer when it is off the back tees with hard and really fast greens. The sensible way it was set up on Monday will ensure more and more players come back next year.
McPhee Wins at Red Cliffs
Justin McPhee is the 2009 Red Cliffs Golf Club champion. McPhee shot par both days on the weekend to finish with 70-74-72-72 which is great golf in anyone's language, especially in a club championship. Runner up and junior champion was Tim Walker who had 76-72-74-80. The next part of Walker's golf education will be as a caddy at Country Week in three weeks time. Another junior to shine was David Filippi who won the A grade handicap and was runner up to Walker in the the Junior championship. Red Cliffs have had some terrific juniors come through the ranks over the years and this year is no exception.
Whitehouse Well Clear at Mildura
Ashley Whitehouse still leads by ten shots at Mildura after an uncharacteristic 79 on Saturday. Best rounds of the day came from Andrew Stewart who is in second place and junior Jake Laubsch who both returned 75's. Laubsch seemed to have lost his way for a couple of months but back to back good rounds at Coomealla and Mildura is encouraging for someone with so much potential. Laubsch is in second place in the junior championship behind Ryan Laird.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

2/9/9

Coomealla Attracts Top Seniors
The 2009 Coomealla Senior Open has attracted a top class field this year with 10 of the top 12 ranked players in Victoria teeing it up next Monday. There has been 18 Senior tournaments across the State so far this year with 530 different players competing for points in the Doug Bachli Trophy. Yarra Yarra's Michael Jackson who recently turned 67 is the State's top senior and comfortably leads the rankings in both scratch and handicap. Jackson gave golf away in his middle years and played cricket with his four sons returning to golf in his 50's. The pinnacle of his golfing career came at age 60 in 2002 when he attained a scratch handicap at Yarra Yarra Golf Club. Jackson has won five times this year including Cranbourne, Peninsula and Cobram Barooga over 54 holes. Last month he won back to back tournaments at Royal Melbourne (71) and Yarra Yarra (70). Unfortunately he is in some doubt after pulling a back muscle last week and is having daily treatment in an attempt to continue his recent run of success. Number two seed Ross Percy was the inaugural winner at Coomealla in 2007 and knows Coomealla better than most but his form has been patchy of late. Commonwealth's Allan Bullas is the man to beat this year and is the circuits most recent winner at Peninsula. Bullas has played over 200 metropolitan pennant matches and is still playing division one. He turned 55 earlier this year and promptly won his 15th club championship at Commonwealth Golf Club. Bullas is currently running third in the Bachli rankings and is featured in the August edition of Golf Victoria magazine. Ninety three men and 18 women have entered the tournament with 62 visitors and 31 locals including 27 from Coomealla. After the first two rounds a seeded draw will be in operation on Wednesday for the last 18 holes.
Whitehouse and McPhee Clubhouse Leaders
Ashley Whitehouse shot a great round of 70 in the second round of the club championships at Mildura on Saturday and looks certain to notch up his 7th club title.
Whitehouse is 14 shots clear of the Stewart brothers who have copied each other each day with rounds of 81/77. Junior Ryan Laird slipped back with an 81 after a 78 last week. Conditions were fairly tough with the daily Calculated Course Rating going out to 74. Round three will be played Saturday with the last round on Saturday week.
Justin McPhee was solid at Red Cliffs on Saturday on day two of Red Cliffs club championships with a round of 74 to be even par after 36 holes. McPhee leads by four shots from the clubs top junior Tim Walker who put it all together for a par round of 72. Walker has probably been a little bit behind the likes of the districts top juniors in Jake Laubsch, Ryan Laird and Tyler Verbeek this year but to shoot 72 in a club championship is something special. Phil Lawn who matched McPhee's 70 on day one was disappointed with an 82 but two rounds remain and anything is possible in a championship. Rounds three and four will be played this weekend.
Diabetes Awareness Day
The recent Diabetes Awareness Day could have been the last after more than a decade. Events take up a lot of time to organise and the organisers who have done a wonderful job feel it is time to pass the baton on. A suggestion on the table is that the Sunraysia Veterans Association take over the running of the event which raised over $4000 this year. Hopefully a resolution can be achieved as it has been a terrific event which has honoured it's founder Ian Ramsay in the best possible way.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

25/8/9

Walder Wins at Merbein
Roger Walder is the 2009 Merbein golf club champion after leading from start to finish over 72 holes. Walder has been a stalwart of the club for many years and is possibly it's oldest ever club champion. Starting the third round four strokes clear of Ken Matulick and Frank Crouch on Saturday it was foreign territory leading a club championship, by days end Crouch had reduced the lead by two strokes. On Sunday Walder held his nerve to win by six strokes from Crouch and Matulick and was further rewarded with Martin Cup for the best nett score in all grades.
Nathan Gard added another club championship to his CV at Wentworth on Sunday when he defeated 2006-08 champion Matt Lynch by two strokes. Lynch has had Gard's measure in recent years and they have had some great battles. This year after beginning the third round locked together on 150 Gard assumed control with a one under par 70 to take a three stroke lead. On Sunday Lynch just couldn't bridge the gap and Nathan Gard is king at Wentworth for the next twelve months.
Ashley Whitehouse looks poised to add another club championship to his already impressive record at Mildura after a 74 on Saturday. Whitehouse is four shots clear of junior Ryan Laird who has played well in recent weeks. The club decided to run the club championships over four Saturday's for the first time this year in an attempt to attract more players. Even though the field of 67 (for the championship) is up on previous years it represents about only 65 per cent of their usual Saturday fields.
Justin McPhee and Phillip Lawn both recorded excellent rounds of two under par 70's in the first round of Red Cliffs golf club championships on Sunday. Lawn is a past club champion who has moved around from Red Cliffs to Riverside and Coomealla but this year he has saved his best for the "Cliffs". It will be interesting to follow the progress this Saturday with the third and fourth rounds being on September 5th and 6th. Stay tuned.
North West Women's Golf Country Team Announced
The North West Women's Golf Inc recently announced the team to represent our district at the Country Teams tournament in Melbourne next month. Sue Walmsley is the team manager and will lead - Michelle Fumberger Robinvale, Sue Laird, Nycole Riordan Coomealla, Fran Richards, Eily Raeck, Marg McGlashan, Rhonda Young Mildura, Julie McEwan Red Cliffs, Lynda Saunders, Suzie Conquest Riverside. The caddies include Sonya Golitschenko, Jodene Tuau, Janet Luke, Marg Morrison, Fran Sette and Lisa Garioch. The team will play against other districts at Long Island and Peninsula golf clubs on September 7th and 8th.
Sunraysia Country Week Team Changes
Coomealla's Leigh Fuller and Sean Baumgurtel have replace Anthony O'Brien and Brendan Rowse in the team to represent Sunraysia at Country Week commencing September 28th. Both players who are living in Melbourne withdrew due to work commitments. Juniors Jake Labusch and Tim Walker will be the team caddies this year.
Big Scores at Coomealla
Last week Coomealla's Jason Hartley recorded a personal best score of 78 off the stick to give him 45 stableford points and naturally a win. This week he teamed up with Jason Williams to win the club's four ball championship with a combined 49 points. Runner's up were the combination of Travis Laity and Travis Jobson who had 48 points. Jobson was given a 34 handicap which was reduced to 30 after his round on Saturday which included chipping in for a birdie three on the 15th for 5 points!
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

18/8/9

Sue Laird Sunraysia's Number One Lady Golfer
Coomealla's Sue Laird confirmed her number one ranking in Sunraysia's ladies golf at Riverside last week. Laird was crowned 2009 champion of champions in the North West Women's Golf Inc championships after a four over par 76 gave her an 11 shot win from Broken Hill's Karen Fumberger.. The win caps off a great year for Sue when she won both the Mildura and Coomealla club championships, Tri-State Masters and the Murray Valley Championship. The next tournament on Laird's agenda is the Women's Country Teams championships in Melbourne from September 7-9.
Victorian Junior Sandcrape Championships
Ryan Laird 76-86 finished two shots back in both the scratch and handicap sections of the Victorian Junior Sandcrape Championships at Elmore at the weekend. Laird led the tournament after the first round but struggled on Sunday in atrocious conditions that included heavy rain and wind. Red Cliffs Tim Walker was upset on Saturday after one of the other competitor's father picked up his ball and walked off with it. Unfortunately Tim and his playing partners didn't realise that on seeing it occur he could have dropped another ball where it happened without penalty. Instead he went back to the tee and played his third shot. On Sunday he recovered to have the best score of our local contingent with an 85. It was a hard lesson to learn but another example of how important it is to know the rules.
Walder on Top at Merbein
The Walder name is famous at Merbein for both cricket and football but maybe, just maybe golf might be included in that conversation soon. Roger Walder is the leader after the first two rounds of the 2009 Merbein golf club championships. Whilst only a small field lined up for the event at the weekend Walder who has only just returned from a visit to London, (where he watched the Aussies struggle in the Ashes) is four shots clear of Ken Matulick and Frank Crouch. Walder has not enjoyed the best of health in recent times, it would be fantastic if he could keep his renowned competitive juices flowing this weekend and see his name etched on the honour board as 2009 club champion. This weekend Red Cliffs, Mildura and Wentworth will all begin their mens 2009 club championships.
Red Cliffs Moving Forward
A big field of 138 players turned out at Red Cliffs golf club on Saturday for Gee Bee's day and everyone had a ball. The club has had a tough time in the last couple of years but there is no doubting the quality of club spirit that continues to grow at the club. Last week popular figurehead Graham Bamford was re elected as president after a long lay off from golf due to a nasty leg injury that almost cost him his foot. New captain for the next 12 months is Dr Lloyd Hale who is the son in law of past captain and president Bob Langford. The popular GBC Motors day which attracts up to 180 players is coming up soon so anyone wishing to play in it should book in now. Red Cliffs has great plans for the next few years and their brand new committee are set to take the club forward in leaps and bounds.
Jackson Favourite at Coomealla Senior Open
Yarra Yarra's Michael Jackson won the Senior Championship's at both Royal Melbourne and Yarra Yarra on Friday and Monday with scores of 71 and 70. That form makes him a hot favourite for the Coomealla Senior Championship in threee weeks time. Jackson is the brother in law of Riverside golf club president Mick Burke. Sunraysia was represented in the tournaments by Coomealla club captain Alan Scorer who had 87 and 79. Other locals to participate were Ross Robertson, Ken Forster and Hadyn Farnsworth. The boys finished off their Melbourne campaign yesterday in the Kingston Heath Senior Open, scene of the Australian Masters in November.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

11/8/9

Sunraysia Juniors Third
The Sunraysia District Golf Association junior team finished third in division two of the Regional country Championships at Kyneton last weekend. After looking like Brown's cows at Trentham last year the team looked resplendent this year in the complete Sunraysia uniform. Sunraysia headed off to Kyneton with high hopes but came home realising that they have a lot of work to do over the next two years if they are to climb into division one. This is certainly achievable as the whole team will still be eligible in 2011. Winning team Ballarat who were 40 shots in front of us and 20 shots in front of Corangamite had played the course the day before and had a number of 17 year olds who will drop out next year. Top performers for Sunraysia were Ryan Laird 79-79 and Tyler Verbeek 83-80. The whole team will be off to Elmore on Friday for the 2009 Victorian Junior Sandscrape Championships. A practise round on Friday will give them all a bit of the "sandcrape" experience for the weekend. Putting on sandscrape greens is a whole new ball game but will be a great experience for the boys. If this team can stay together and work hard then they can achieve their goals.
Sue Laird Ninth at Rich River
Sue Laird and Mabel Crouch represented Sunraysia at the Women's Golf Country Championships at Rich River last week. Sue finished equal eighth with rounds of 84-84 and then went into a playoff for the eighth spot in the matchplay rounds. Unfortunately she lost the playoff. The overall winner was 17 year old Breanna Elliot from Yarrawonga who set two course records on the East and West Rich River courses. Elliot went on to claim the title winning her matchplay games 8/6 and 7/6.
Coomealla Celebrates 70 Years
Coomealla Golf Club will celebrate it's 70th birthday this weekend. The present site of the club is it's third after moving down from opposite the Coomealla High School in 1970. The course then was sand scrapes but grass greens were opened up to members in 1978. Ross Putland was the course designer and Kevin Hartley was the man who designed the greens. Since it's inception only the 18th has been relocated although originally the first hole was closer to the club house until a new car park was built and the first hole extended. The third and fourth holes were transposed with the third becoming a par 3 and the fourth a par 4. Some of the club's oldest members will be in attendance at the weekend when a dinner will be held on Saturday night and a brunch on Sunday. Naturally a medley stableford on Saturday and Sunday will give everyone an opportunity to play, reminisce and enjoy one of the best golf courses in Australia. This is my 30th year as a member of Coomealla Golf Club, first joining the club in 1979 when the membership cost $25.
US PGA Last 2009 Major
Hazeltine National Golf Club will host the last major golf tournament of the year this week with the 91st US PGA championship. Rich Beem was the last winner of a PGA title at Hazeltine when he beat Tiger Woods for the championship in 2002. Prior to that Payne Stewart beat Scott Simpson in the 1991 US Open in a playoff. Last year Padraig Harrington won at Oaklands after Tiger had won in 2006-07. It is hard to go against Tiger but Padraig might just have the luck of the Irish again this week.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

4/8/9

Wentworth Open
Sixty six players contested the 2009 Wentworth Open at the weekend and the scoring was red hot. On Saturday Red Cliffs number one golfer Justin McPhee shared the lead with Wentworth's club champion Matt Lynch with one under par 70's. Coomealla's Leigh Fuller was on the next line with 72 with a number of players on 73 including Tim Walker, Sean Baumgurtel and Steve Wilmann. Greg Rhodes looked out of sorts on 74 and Ashley Whitehouse looked gone for all money on 76. Sunday came and as all golfers can attest, it bought with it fresh hope and an opportunity to consolidate for the leaders and improve for the rest. It wasn't a level playing field for all competitors as conditions were benign in the morning however, the wind got up in there afternoon and blew the scores right out. Greg Rhodes went out early and came in with a 68 to be the leader in the club house for fifteen minutes until Ash Whitehouse arrived. Whitehouse bettered his Saturday score by ten shots with a brilliant 66. Officials thought this may have been a club record until Lars Holden's scorecard from 10 years ago of 63 was found. Equal first round leader Matt Lynch played in the afternoon and recorded a creditable 79 in strong winds to be seven shots behind. Justin McPhee who played with Whitehouse was third after a 75 gave him a three over total of 145. As both Whitehouse and Rhodes had left the course and were unable to return for a playoff, both were declared equal winners and the trophies were donated back to the club.
District Junior Team
The Sunraysia District Golf Association announced the team to contest the 2009 Victorian Country Teams Championship at Kyneton this weekend. The team is Jake Laubsch, Shay Toma, Jason Tassone Mildura, Tyler Verbeek Merbein, Tim Walker, David Filippi, Damen Southgate, Dom Vartuli Red Cliffs, Ryan Laird Coomealla. This is the best junior team assembled from our district for a number of years and if they play up to form they should win division two and step up a notch next year. The format is medal matchplay where each player plays a stroke round against an opponent from another district.
Golf Numbers Increase
Results of the 2008 Australian Sport's Commission's annual Exercise Recreation and Sport Survey were released last week. Interestingly golf was identified as the fastest growing participation sport in Australia. More than a quarter of a million people took up golf in Australia last year. With a total participation rate of 1,181,100 golf topped tennis, football and netball on the list of most popular club-based physical activities for Australians. This is the first time since the survey was first commissioned in 2002 that total participation has eclipsed tennis. As reported in this column last week there is an opportunity for local government to start getting behind the promotion of our tournaments and facilities because golfers these days are prepared to travel. First though, they have to know that events are on and how good our golf facilities are.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

28/7/9

Mildura Golf Week
Golfers have flocked to Mildura from more than 85 different golf clubs for the 62nd Mildura Golf Week. In May's Tri-State Masters competitors came from 60 golf clubs and approximately 50 clubs will be represented in September at the Coomealla Senior Open. All up around 600 golfers who stay for a minimum six nights in Mildura represents a minimum of $600,000 into our community. Tourism people say that the tourist dollar goes around five times which means these three tournaments generate three million dollars. Based on these figures it would be reasonable to assume that council or the tourism authority would be a keen and active supporter and maybe even a minor sponsor. Think again, as zero support is forthcoming. There is no doubt that with some assistance for promotion these numbers from faraway places could be increased and further add to the revenue bought into the town.
Wentworth Open
This weekend local golfers will have the last opportunity for 2009 to play in a local club 36 hole open tournament. Wentworth golf club is traditionally the last club open of the year with club championships at most clubs beginning in August and September. So far there have been six different winners of the 2009 club opens including Ashley Whitehouse Coomealla, Greg Rhodes Riverside, Tim Petersen Mildura, Cameron Stewart Merbein, Paul Domminelli Robinvale, Justin McPhee Red Cliffs and the SDGA title held at Wentworth. Based on that most recent form McPhee would have to start favourite this weekend. Hopefully all of the recent chosen Country Week team will contest the Wentworth title. Entries can be phoned through to Captain Peter Bicker on 0417 866 286.
Third Ultima Ball Whackers Annual Not-for-a-sheep station Fun Golf Weekend
Yes, it's a great name for a golf tournament and reports are the great weekend at Ultima lives up to it's name. Four nine hole events over the weekend for only $5 entry per round including a 10am "get to know you" mixed drawn three person ambrose on this Saturday August 1st. A BBQ lunch ($5) will follow before a nine hole stroke event culminating with a roast tea ($5) and evening festivities. Next morning a cooked breakfast ($5) at the club will be followed by a 4Ball, then another BBQ lunch ($5) finishing with a single stroke in the afternoon. For further information phone Sonia on 0417 557 850. Accommodation is available at the Ultima Hotel for $25 per person.
Coomealla Senior Open
Coomealla gold club will conduct it's third annual Senior Open Championship from September 7-9. This tournament attracts some of Australia's best senior (over 55) golfers, most of whom would probably never have even heard of Mildura, let alone visited here. After playing in the event last year and talking to a lot of the players, almost to a man they regard this tournament as the best run and equal to any other event on the Australian seniors circuit. That is high praise indeed but the golf course, organisation, trophies and accommodation are first class. In the previous two years local player support wasn't as strong as it could be so hopefully more local men and their wives will nominate and enjoy the atmosphere of a big time tournament. Entry forms are at all local golf clubs or contact Alan Scorer for more information.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

21/7/9

Mildura Golf Week
A top class field has entered the Murray Valley Championship in the 62nd Mildura Golf Week which begins on Friday. There have been some past Murray Valley champions who have gone on to bigger and better things. Marcus Fraser who won in 1999-2000-2002 led the Scottish Open only two weeks ago and is now entrenched as a top line professional on the European Tour. This year any one of eight players appear well credentialed enough to hoist the trophy at Riverside tomorrow week. The championship will begin at Riverside on Monday, then Coomealla, Mildura and conclude at Riverside. Kalem Richardson from Riverside in Tasmania is ranked ninth in Australia and should win he plays up to that ranking. Craig Hasthorpe has played here in 07-08 so he knows the courses well and this might be his turn. Wangaratta's Andrew Kelly has returned to Australia after playing college golf in America for the last two years and it will be interesting to follow his progress. Jeremy Cross from Geelong is another potential winner who has also spent two years learning his golf craft in the States. Other top liners include Southern's Rory Bourke, Heatcote's Kris Mueck, Horsham's Anthony Smith and Daniel Valente. 2007 champion Brendan Rowse will be hoping to return to 07 form and hoist the local flag. Other top local contenders include Leigh Fuller and Andrew and Cameron Stewart. Last year Cobram Barooga couple Ron and Joy Smith entered the tournament for the 50th time and were duly recognised for that achievement and this year they are back again. John Brown from The Vines will also be attending for his 45th year.
Broken Hill Outback Open
Broken Hill's Trevor Henderson with rounds of 80-74 was a narrow one shot winner in the 2009 Outback Open. Henderson followed on from his good form in Sunraysia's recent pennant season and went one step better than his second in the club championship. Over 100 players fronted up in windy conditions at the weekend including a good contingent of golfers from Sunraysia. Coomealla's Jim Fahey won the B grade championship with 85-83 whilst Red Cliffs duo Robert Bettes and John Fillipi tied in B grade for handicap honours. Robinvale champion golfer Michelle Fumberger won the ladies championship easily with rounds of 78-77.
British Open
59 year old Tom Watson turned the clock back on Sunday when he was just pipped for a sixth British Open victory by Stewart Cink. Had Watson have won it would have been the greatest sporting achievement of all time. What a pleasure it was to watch all 40 hours of the Open this year. Australia's Matt Goggin played beautifully and only missed out by two shots at the end. Links golf really is a different game to what they play in the US. Bump and run as against the US's target golf where there is little rough and everyone knocks it on the green and it becomes a putting competition. The commentary from Peter Alliss, Wayne Grady and Sam Torrance was fantastic and really complemented the excellent coverage, sensational golf course and the exciting golf.
Senior's Golf
Following on from Tom Watson's exploits, local golfing enthusiast Trevor Carroll who is the Golf Week co-ordinator, had a marvellous round at Coomealla on Saturday. Carroll who is 69 had an amazing 75 nett 66 to win Coomealla's July Monthly Medal. The round included only 21 putts and a chip in. It is another fine example of why golf is the greatest game in the world. Trevor's round was his best at Coomealla for almost 20 years which includes roughly 2500 rounds of golf or around 2,00000 shots! Is there another game or contest where the number one player in the world (Tiger Woods) can be comprehensively beaten by the 1037th player (Tom Watson) who by the way is 25 years older? At a different level of course, Trevor Carroll's performance is also another wonderful example of the great leveller that golf is.
Contact me with your golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

14/7/9

District Championships
Wentworth Golf Club proved to be great hosts at the weekend for the 2009 SDGA championships. There were some moans however, that perhaps the greenkeeper set some of the pins in the dark. That aside, almost all of the districts top players turned out and there was uniform agreement that "Wenty's" greens are the best in the district. Red Cliffs Justin McPhee 74-70 had a great weekend to win by two shots from Coomealla's Jacob Slimmon 73-73. McPhee had a topsy turvey pennant season but wins in the Red Cliffs Open and the district make it a good Mc-year. Ashley Whitehouse 73-74 and Greg Rhodes 74-74 went in as pre tournament favourites but couldn't get their putters to co-operate with the plan. Andy Stewart 80-70 probably saved his own bacon on Sunday in a Country Week sense with a terrific 70. Jake Laubsch 74-75 was also a creditable performance, particularly for a 15 year old. The Country Week team was announced on Sunday night with Greg Rhodes being added to the team that won last year's division two title. The team is Justin McPhee R/C, Ash Whitehouse, Cameron and Andrew Stewart Mda, Greg Rhodes, Jacob Slimmon
and Tim Petersen Coomealla. Anthony O'Brien and Brendan Rowse have also been included in the team even though they have been living in Melbourne this year and have not played regularly in local events. It would appear that the selectors (Trevor Carroll, Justin McPhee and Steve Spooner) have tried to stay with the winning combination from last year. The unlucky player is Coomealla's Leigh Fuller who went through the recent pennant season undefeated and fulfilled almost all of the criteria set down for selection for Country Week. This year more than ever there appears to be a particularly strong argument for taking down at least one extra player. Illness, injury or poor form are all good reasons to have a back up player other than one of the caddies. This year Country Week is being played at some fantastic courses including Rossdale, Royal Melbourne, Yarra Yarra, Keysborough and Kingston Heath. To win division one after winning two and three in the last two years would be a monumental achievement so why not cover all bases and take an extra player?
Mildura Golf Week
The 62nd Mildura Golf Week will hit off on Friday July 24. Any local golfers who wish to enter the Murray Valley championships should contact Trevor Carroll on 50 222447. Entry to any other associated Golf Week event can be done directly to the club where the event is being held. The Golf Week committee has again this year decided to run all events at Mildura and Riverside. Coomealla will as usual also be a one day venue for the Murray Valley Championship. This year an extremely strong men's A grade field has entered but the ladies section is devoid of low handicappers. The B grade men's section is also down in numbers this year. Next week we preview some of the gun golfers who are coming to Mildura to try and add their names on the trophy besides Marcus Fraser (first round leader in the Scottish Open at the weekend), Kevin Hartley and locals Jack Furze and Greg Rhodes.
British Open
Greg Norman returns to Turnberry fro the 138th British Open on Thursday. Who could forget his first major win there in 1986 after he shot a record 63 in the first round. Last year Norman almost became the oldest ever winner of the Open when he led into the last round. Two youngsters will get the thrill of their lives when they tee it up on Thursday. Japan's 17 year old Ryo Ishikawa will play with Tiger Woods and Italy's 16 year old Matto Mannasero will accompany five times winner Tom Watson. Lefty, Richard Green could be a good smokey bet for the Aussies but I like England's Lee Westwood or the US's Kenny Perry. This year the telecast starts on Fox at 6pm.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

7/7/9

Coomealla Go Back to Back
Coomealla Golf Club won the 2009 SDGA division one pennant final for the second year in a row at Wentworth on Sunday. All indications suggest that this could be the beginning of a long dominance as the power club of district pennant. On Sunday Coomealla won four/one against Broken Hill who were with without their number two player Rod Simmons who was unavailable. Coomealla were always in control and the pennant was virtually decided at the halfway mark after 18 holes. Riverside have been great supporters of pennant and thoroughly deserved their victories in divisions two and three. It would have been terrific though, if Broken Hill could have snatched one of the pennants in their first year. It could have gone either way in division three with the last match going right to the 36th hole. Looking back, the introduction of Broken Hill was a great addition to the pennant rota but as with anything new, some thought needs to be given to their draw and indeed, the whole pennant system. What worked ten, fifteen or twenty years ago isn't necessarily the best way to go in 2010. Exciting new players to emerge included Mildura's Jake Laubsch and Coomealla's Ryan Laird who should be given serious consideration for Country Week(to be announced on Sunday). Pennant results on the golf page.
District Championships
This weekend Wentworth will take centre stage again for the 2009 SDGA championships. Wentworth hosted the pennant finals on Sunday, the district veterans championships on Monday and will conduct their open tournament in three weeks time. Unfortunately very few local golfers have entered the SDGA tournament so far. At time of writing none of the districts "gun" golfers have bothered to lift the phone to nominate. Club captain Peter Bicker is pulling his hair out as it is impossible to do a draw when everyone leaves it to the last minute to enter. Please ring Peter today on 0417 866 286 if you intend playing.
Victorian Amateur Junior Championships
Five of our local lads stepped out in the VGA junior championships last week at Yarra Yarra and Northern golf clubs. Jake Laubsch finished equal third in the under 16 handicap section. He had rounds of 82-76-76-84-318 with Ryan Laird our next best with 81-84-80-77-322. The overall winner had a total of 299. This tournament was a great experience for all of our contingent which included Tyler Verbeek, Tim Walker and Dominic Vartuli. District golf legend Greg Rhodes 73-72 finished fourth, two shots behind Chris Brown 74-69 in the Royal Adelaide Plate over 36 holes on Sunday. Rhodes competed against South Australia's State amateur team beating most of them at Royal Adelaide.
Golf Events Galore
The annual Teachers and Friends ambrose in fours is on at Red Cliffs this Friday. Everyone is welcome so book in on 50 241531. The Pooncarie Golf Club will conduct an 18 hole stroke event on Saturday July 18 with an 11am start. Naturally a most convivial lunch and tea will be available, phone Colin or Pat on 50 295272. The Robinvale Hospital Day is Robinvale's biggest charity day of the year and the ambrose in 4's will be on Sunday July 19. Golfers and non golfers will all be made welcome with all proceeds going to the Robinvale Hospital. ring Gratton Wood on 0400861195. Finally the Variety Bash golf day will be held at Red Cliffs golf club on Saturday July 25. The ambrose in 4's is open to golfers and non golfers alike and is $20 per player. A $2 sausage sizzle will also be available ring Mark Bowring on 0418 147 524.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunrausiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

30/6/9

Coomealla Set For Pennant Final
The Sunraysia District Golf Association will be hoping for a great finish to the 2009 pennant season at Wentworth on Sunday. The home and away season ended in controversial circumstances at Mildura last Sunday with forfeits being the order of the day. Mildura forfeited two matches in division one so as to field a stronger team in division two and Red Cliffs ended up forfeiting all five matches in division two. Whilst the division one episode didn't change the ladder, in division two Broken Hill who had the bye, missed out on a finals berth on percentage. The new SDGA club had fulfilled it's responsibilities by travelled down to Mildura each week with a full contingent of players. The pennant rules must be amended to ensure that nothing like this happens again. This week in division one Coomealla who have been perennial runners up to Mildura in recent years take on Broken Hill. On paper it looks a fairly even contest. Coomy flogged Broken Hill at Coomealla two weeks ago but the Wentworth lay out will suit the boys from the Hill much better. Over 36 holes the best team will win and Coomealla will start favourite. In division two little separates Mildura and Riverside. Riverside though, look too accomplished for Mildura whilst in div three Broken Hill could take home the club's first ever SDGA pennant. In division four Coomealla have been the stand out team all year. The next major event of the year will be the 2009 SDGA championships at Wentworth on July 11-12.
Broken Hill Outback Open
Broken Hill golf club will conduct their 2009 Outback Championship for men & ladies on July 18-19. Over one hundred local players and officials visited the course for district pennant last month and were suitably so the club is expecting a good turn up from Mildura. Phone the club on 08 8087 9009 to enter.
Diabetes Awareness Charity Golf Day
The 10th Annual Ian Ramsay Diabetes Awareness Charity Golf Day will be conducted at Mildura Golf Club Resort on Monday July 20 and follows on from Diabetes Week. This event which is open to both men and women became popular on the charity golf day circuit due to the work of some terrific people including Ian Ramsay and his wife Joan. Contact Joan on 50 23 2054 or Ian Plush on 50 21 1232 for more information.
Ouyen Open
Alan "Sammy" Floyd took out the 27 hole Ouyen Open on Sunday with rounds of 36-79. Floyd won by two strokes from Hopetoun's Peter Hallam who shot 42-75. It was a great effort by Sammy as only recently he returned to golf after two and a half years to win the Ouyen Club Championship. Two major knee operations necessitates the use of a ride on cart for the veteran which makes the achievement even more commendable. The icing on the cake for one of Ouyen's favourite sons is that this is the Ouyen Golf Club's centenary year. Well done Sammy!
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

23/6/9

Coomealla Stamp Authority
Coomealla Golf Club have had to bow to the power of Mildura Golf Club in division one pennant so many times over the last thirty years but not this year. On Sunday on their home track they answered their critics in emphatic fashion against new comers Broken Hill. The Broken Hill boys travelled down on Saturday and played in Coomy's Monthly medal, after observing their opposition scores that night the home team grew in confidence. To be fair to the Broken Hill players, Coomealla off the back tees in winter is no easy task and they struggled. On Saturday night they used the spare time away from home to discuss the course and the days play, this went well into the night and perhaps they were just a little fatigued on Sunday. This happened to many of our local players when they visited Broken Hill for the first two rounds. Tim Petersen had an interesting weekend after firstly confusing his tee time then racing out to Coomy to play and eventually win at number one , unfortunately his clubs were then stolen out of his car on Sunday night. Jake Slimmon lost to the Hill's number one player Jamie Greenie but Sean Baumgurtel found some form to complement the great form of Ryan Laird and Leigh Fuller. Coomealla has the bye this week but will undoubtably meet the Hill men in the final at Wentworth On July 5. In the other match Riverside and Red Cliffs were playing for pride with the Riverside team victorious in a close contest. Highlight or lowlight was Craig Gursansky landing one on the greenkeeper's shed off the 18th tee. Apparently the bang gave some people a fright and others a giggle but it's not the first time it's happened. Next Sunday Mildura play host in the last round of what has been a terrific season of pennant. The SDGA has some decisions to make however as not everything has gone to clockwork. Maybe it is time to go back to home and away pennant with clubs playing at home one week and away the next and perhaps the semi final then final system could also be revisited next year, to keep nearly all of the teams live right up until the last round.
Ladies Champions
The ladies championships have been played and won with no big surprises at any club in the final analysis. Some of the girls who emerged this year is encouraging for ladies golf, including Marg Lampard at Riverside and Sally Jones at Red Cliffs. Even though there are lots of new ladies taking up golf around the district, which is great, there doesn't seem to be a lot of younger ladies stepping up to top A grade level. Sue Laird is the standout and Michelle Fumberger has been a champion golfer for twenty plus years but apart from Nycole Riordan and maybe Julie McEwan and Rhonda Young, as a district we are a bit short on top liners. Results of all championships are on the golf page.
US Open
After sitting glued to the TV for five days it is fair to suggest that the US Open is as close to a soap opera as you can get. There were so many stories within the tournament. The Americans were willing Phil Mickelson to win amid the sympathy for his wife who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Mickelson eventually reached the lead with two holes to go only to lose it and finish second for a record fifth time. Then there was Robert Duval who was world number one before Tiger Woods. Duval who has gone from 1 to 887 in the world also hit the front with only a couple of holes to go but also finished equal second. Unbackable favourite in a 140 man field, Tiger was thought to be still a chance until the very end, we only concluded he wasn't when he left the building. Ricky Barnes won the US amateur seven years ago but hasn't fired a shot since, until Saturday, but he shot nine over par in the last 27 holes but still finished equal second. Finally little known Southerner Lucas Glover emerged to win on a public golf course in horrendous weather that took an extra day to resolve. Last year's Open was such a great event when Woods beat Rocco Mediate in an extra 18 holes but this year was even better. That fantastic book and movie called "The Greatest Game Ever Played" about the 1913 US Open might now have a sequel in years to come.
Beef & Burgundy
Red Cliffs Golf Club will conduct their annual Beef & Burgundy day this Saturday. The event is an ambrose in two and is open to all district golfers who will be treated to the famous hospitality of the Red Cliffs Golf Club. After golf a superb beef stroganoff followed by sweets will accompany anice glass of vino. Call 50 241531 to book.
State Junior Amateur
Our top juniors including Jake Laubsch, Ryan Laird, Tyler Verbeek and Tim Walker are off to Melbourne next week to contest the State Junior Amateur championship of Victoria at Yarra Yarra and Northern Golf Clubs. This will be great experience for our kids
Contact me with your golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

15/6/9

Coomealla Fall in at Riverside
Round three of the Sunraysia District Golf Association's winter pennant at Riverside on Sunday went according to form, well almost. Cellar dwellar in division one Riverside almost caused a huge upset when they narrowly lost to ladder leader Coomealla. Dave Woolcock knocked over Coomealla captain Sean Baumgurtel then Steve Wilmann went down 2/1, Robert Veit and Ben Hogan both hung on till the last hole before capitulating. Steve Spooner was all square after 20 holes against Tim Petersen when they both called it a day and settled for a half. Coomealla remain undefeated but you wouldn't back them with any confidence after Sunday's performance but that's the great thing about matchplay golf, if you hang in there long enough anything can happen. In the other div one match Red Cliffs put up a good performance to just miss out 3/2 against Mildura. The final looks set now to be between Broken Hill and Coomealla. Troy Germane was the star performer for Mildura and young Tyler Verbeek recorded his first win in "Cliffs" colours. In div two the two spots in the final will come down to either Broken Hill, Mildura or Riverside. Comments from the players this year have been positive but having all four divisions play at the one course has not worked effectively as there has been long delays on some hole with up to three groups waiting to continue their matches. Another suggestion is to go back to 18 hole semi finals and finals so as to retain interest right up until the last round. With interest in pennant back somewhat to how it used to be ten years or more ago it is important to make sure everyone is keen and happy with the system. Pennant continues this week at Coomealla followed by Mildura and finals at Wentworth on July 5.
Ladies Championships
Sue Laird is the ladies champion at Mildura again this year but she faces a tough test in the last round at Coomealla today. Nycole Riordan is right on Sue's hammer and is only two shots back after a great round last Wednesday. It will be on for young and old as Riordan is a real fighter and Laird will know she's played by days end. Another close one is on the cards at Red Cliffs where Julie McEwan has regained form to be only three shots behind Sally Jones. McEwan is looking the lady most likely but who knows in a championship what will happen. Marg Lampard hung in at Riverside last week to be six shots behind, she will be hoping she can produce her A game against seasoned performer Lorraine Palmer who knows all the tricks and is sure to be primed and ready for all comers. Leonie Bottomly is playing great golf this year at Wentworth and could easily be the most improved lady golfer in the district, she looks well placed in Wentworth's championship. Bev Cetinich is in front again and heading for her third championship in a row at Merbein.
New Handicap System
Word on the street has it that Australia is looking seriously at adopting the American slope handicapping system. Basically the system differs to ours in that each golf course is categorised, eg Coomealla might be a category 2 and Merbein or Wentworth for instance may be a category 4 or 5. When a player plays in a competition their handicap will change depending on the category of the golf course they are playing. For instance a player may play of 16 at Merbein but 21 at Coomealla or say, Murray Downs. Also, a players initial handicap will be worked out on the best 10 of 20 rounds. Sounds complicated but it is the most popular handicapping system in the world.
Both Victoria and New South Wales voted against it's introduction but was over ruled by all of the other States. I doubt though, that it will be introduced for some time yet as all Australian golf courses will have to be re rated first and that could take up to three years.
US Open
The US Open hits off at Bethpage public golf course in New York on Friday morning. Tiger Woods won in 2002 which is the only time the course has been used for the Open in the past. Naturally he is a red hot favourite but I am going to have a flutter on Sweden's Henrik Stenson with a saver on Robert Karlsson. Pommies Paul Casey and Ian Poulter should also feature but only Geoff Ogilvy looks capable of flying the Aussie flag.
Around the Greens
1,Eighty three year old Ernie Bennett was hit by a runaway buggy on Riverside's 12th hole recently but finished the hole for a four for three stableford points. He then went straight off to hospital where he has 10 stitches in a leg wound. Asked why he finished playing the hole he said, well I'd hit a good tee shot and I wanted to see if I could make the three points! 2, Former Country Week player Troy Neville has returned to the district after a stint at Howlong golf club working in the pro shop for former Coomealla professional Anthony Hunter. On Coomealla's par 5 13th hole (470 metres) Troy hit the green in 2 using a driver and 9 iron! 3, Former SDGA vice president Graham McClellan was walking down a fairway at Coomealla playing with his new toys. A golf GPS device that tells you how far to the green and bunker etc when he lost control of his remote controlled golf buggy only to see it tumble end over end into a deep bunker. Playing partner Graeme Burrows said their group found it very difficult to compose themselves for the rest of the round because it was the funniest thing they had ever seen on a golf course.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

9/6/9

Ladies Championships
The recent weather has tested the resilience of the districts golfing ladies in the 2009 club championships. Sue Laird has continued on as the outstanding ladies golfer in the district leading at both Coomealla and Mildura. Laird won her third Tri-State Masters tournament in a row last month and appears to have another two championships sewn up already. Lorraine Palmer is well placed to add another championship at Riverside along with her previous successes at Red Cliffs. Palmer first won a club championship at Red Cliffs in the 80's so to win club championships in three different decades is a significant achievement. Sally Jones is a surprise leader at Red Cliffs and is two shots clear of evergreen Nancy Warhurst. The second rounds are being contested this week and all championships conclude next week.
SDGA Pennant
Round three of SDGA men's pennant hits off at Riverside on Sunday and it will be interesting to see how Mildura fare against the under rated Red Cliffs combination in division one. The "Cliffs" have two smart juniors in Tim Walker and Tyler Verbeek who are both showing great promise but need the older heads in the team to stand up. Mildura must win their last two matches without losing a game to hold any hope of a berth in the final. The unavailability of Ashley Whitehouse at Broken Hill in the first rounds have cost them dearly. Riverside meet Coomealla with the home team on a hiding to nothing in the other div one clash. The local Sunraysia teams will have a chance to regroup this week as all three Broken Hill teams have been allocated byes. Round four will be at Coomealla on June 21.
Holden Scramble
Coomealla Golf Club had an enormous influx of golfers at the weekend when they hosted their "golf extravaganza". All up just under 500 golfers contested events from Friday to Monday with 180 playing in the Holden Scramble on Sunday. This event began in 1992 and has become the biggest event Australia wide during this time. This year the rules were changed once again, going back to four player teams as it was initially. Winners this year were Trevor Carroll, Ben Challis , Barry and Sandy Waters.
Every year there is some heartache when someone makes a blue on their scorecard and get disqualified. The boys from Merbein would have qualified for a trip to the regional final but for poor paperwork! At Mildura on Monday though Merbein's Phil Matotek headed up the scratch winners in the ambrose with help from Steve Clifford, Lucas Brown and Michael Bulicaglia who had 66 off the stick. The Laubsch family including Mum Jo, Dad Paul and sons Jake and Nick won the handicap with 54.25 and the mixed went to Ray Fletcher, Glynn, Raelene and Russell Gibson who had 59.75. All up 92 fronted up for a great days golf.
The Golfer's Wedding
Heard a story recently about the bride who on reaching the groom standing at the altar asked "what are your golf clubs doing beside you? Well this isn't going to take all day is it? he replied!!
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

2/6/9

Broken Hill Lights Up
The 2009 SDGA pennant season hit off at Broken Hill on Saturday and over one hundred local players and officials enjoyed the hospitality of the inaugural hosts. The weekend was a resounding success with only a couple of hiccups which will be addressed in due course. In division one the home team just scraped in over a gallant Riverside but perennial pennant runners up Coomealla were too good for Mildura who were without their number one player Ashley Whitehouse. Broken Hill were expected to flog the green and gold's, most of whom were visiting the Hill for the first time. Travis Patten nearly caused a boilover when he just went down at the last hole to 13 times club champion Rod Simmons. Similarly Ben Hogan lost one down to 2009 Broken Hill club championship runner up Trevor Henderson whilst Steve Wilmann defeated Tim O'Neil at the 18th in another nail biter. It appeared that the Broken Hill boys may have been just a little bit nervous but those nerves disappeared on Sunday when they cleaned up Mildura five zip. Cam Stewart won his match which included a hole in one on the 2nd against Tim Petersen, junior up and comer Jake Laubsch began like bat out of the Hill when me trounced Sean Baumgurtel 5/4. . Laubsch ripped in two eagles in a great debut performance which could be the beginning of a standout pennant year. Last year after winning every div two match he was left out of the final but this kid can really play, evidenced by his performance on Sunday when he just got pipped on Sunday at the 18th. Labusch's opponent, Broken Hill's Ross MacKay had easily won on Saturday against Steve Spooner 6/5. Mildura's chances of making the final now appear slim at best as even this far out Broken Hill and Coomealla have a stranglehold on the top two spots. Apart from Laubsch the standout debutant of the weekend was Coomealla junior Ryan Laird who easily defeated experienced A graders in Maurice Warn on Saturday 5/4 and Craig Gursansky on Sunday 7/6. Other juniors who stepped up were Red Cliffs pair Tyler Verbeek and Tim Walker who both played well against Country week players Sean Baumgurtel and Tim Petersen. Both juniors were four up after four holes but were reeled in by the more experienced pair who were just a little bit foggy on Sunday morning, probably from the Broken Hill dust. Coomealla's Leigh Fuller had two good wins whilst Jake Slimmon scaped in against Steve Bibby at the 19th then knocked off Justin McPhee on Sunday 4/3. Broken Hill lead divisions two and three with Riverside their main challenger in two but the third division is wide open. In Division four there is no Broken Hill team and four teams each recorded a win retaining interest in the remaining rounds. There will be no pennant this weekend, pennant will resume at Riverside on June 14.
Ladies Championships
Ladies club championships begin this week and it will be interesting to see how many ladies turn out in the wet conditions. Sue Laird will start a hot favourite at Coomealla. Marg McGlashan and Mabel Crouch will share favouritism at Mildura whilst at Riverside Carol Benning, Lynda Saunders, Marg Lampard and Jenny Leach should fight it out. Julie McEwan and Nancy Warhurst always seem to be at the top of the table at Red Cliffs. Bev Cetinich is going for three in a row at Merbein. Ladies pennant concluded at Mildura on Monday with pennants going to Riverside, Mildura and Coomealla in another successful pennant season.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

26/5/9

Pennant Starts at Broken Hill
History will be made in Sunraysia golf in rounds one and two of the Sunraysia District Golf Association, when winter pennant begins in Broken Hill on Saturday. Many local golfing officials believe that this is the shot in the arm that local golf needed. The Broken Hill golfers can't wait as it will be the first time in 30 years that the club will be playing a structured well organised pennant competition. Club captain Peter Jeffries said yesterday " everyone is really looking forward to seeing the Victorians this weekend. We have not long finished our club championships and our boys are champing at the bit. Put it this way, we'd rather see them on the golf course than sitting on the riverbank flogging our fish". Newly crowned club champion Jamie Greeney who had a 68 in the championship will be the "Hills" number one player. Another top liner is Rod Simmons who has won the championship 13 times but didn't play this year, both players play off a 3 handicap. The remaining three players, Trevor Henderson, Ross MacKay and Tim O'Neil all play off 4. In division two our local Sunraysia clubs are in for a shock as the local team is made up of 5 and 6 markers which will really test the depth of any club. Jeffries also added "our golf golf course is in tip top condition after the purchase of new mowers and other equipment recently, combined with some recent rain and our bore water". Four divisions will operate and over one hundred players and officials will boost the towns economy promoting more reciprocal visits between the two districts golfers.
Tri-State Masters Success
The 17th Tri-State Masters has been run and won and our visitors have returned to the many and varied places from which they came. Several factors will determine whether there will be an eighteenth tournament next year. The golfers who flew in from New Zealand, Perth, Brisbane and Tasmania all reported being charged excess weight for their golf clubs for the first time which will influence their decision to come back. Some of the Perth visitors were charged up to $250 per golf bag for the return flight. With so many new tournaments beginning all over the country it is becoming harder to attract new players to offset the numbers who aren't coming back. Reasons cited are are a lot of the regulars are getting older, sometimes into their mid to late seventies, alternative tournaments, petrol and now freight charges and naturally date clashes with family and other functions. Sponsorship is also getting tougher to source however,the tournament has developed terrific relationships with local companies and clubs, in particular the Coomealla Club Memorial Sporting Club, Trentham Estate Winery, Jet Set Mildura, Prime Television, Lorraine's Ladieswear, Ransoms, the Mildura Golf Club Resort and Sunraysia Resort. For the event to continue assistance from Council and the local tourism authority is vital. Over 4000 people have visited Mildura for the Tri-State Masters for a minimum of six nights each since 1993, it remains to be seen if indeed, this year was for the last time.
Contact me with your golfing opinion or information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

23/5/9

Spooner Wins Tri-State Masters
Riverside Golf Club 2009 A grade pennant captain Steven Spooner won the Tri-State Masters last Friday at Mildura Golf Club Resort at his eighth attempt. Spooner 73-83-81 won by four strokes from Cranbourne's Steve McPherson who had 83-78-80. McPherson mounted a challenge mid round getting to within two shots but Spooner held on to win a title he has coveted for eight years. Graham McClellan 83-79-82 from Coomealla won the seniors title at his first attempt. Grade stableford winners were A grade Glen Palmer Coomealla 112 points, B grade John Daffy Coomealla 116, C grade John Cook Yarrawonga 109. The veteran winner was John Eliffe Melville Glades Perth 107 and the super veteran Allan Mannering Werribee Park who won a four way countback on 97 points. Sue Laird made it three in a row when she once again easily won the ladies section with 80-79-83 from Portsea's Jenny Jeffreys who won the ladies seniors title with 81-88-83. In the points sections the winners were Glenys Anderson Mildura 102, Rose Alexander Kiama 110, Di Holdsworth Mornington 110. Ladies veteran award went to Merle Thompson Melville Glades 106 and the super vet was Barb Hind from Cobram Barooga 105. Best aggregate points team score of 409 came from Mornington's Di Holdsworth, Jan Dodman, Trish Wech and Gillian Lawrence. Runners up five points behind and best local team was Dave Gardiner, Greg Butcher, Paul Wright and Steve Spooner. The Tri-State Masters once again proved to be a stern test of golfing skill and endurance with only two ladies and three men playing to their handicaps or better for the 54 holes. John Daffy representing Coomealla now lives in Brisbane but first joined Coomealla in 1991 returned to play in the tournament for the third time, it proved to be third time lucky. Trailing Croydon's Hugh Ferry by five points after 36 holes, Daffy playing off a 15 handicap produced the round of the tournament on Friday at Mildura. A 79 off the stick for 44 points pipped the unlucky Ferry by one point. Daffy pointed out that in the circumstances it was "the round of his life". Mildura's Glenys Anderson won A grade for the first time after entering the tournmanent for the fifteenth time after first entering the event in 1994.

19/5/9

Spooner Survives at Berri
2009 Tri-State Masters first round leader Steve Spooner (Riverside) had his lead cut in half but still maintain a five stroke lead, after the second round of the tournament at Berri on Wednesday. Spooner slipped and almost fell following his first round 73 with a 11 over par 83. After the round it appeared that he had lost his lead to playing partner Peter Bywaters. In a day controversy, Cranbourne's Peter Bywaters who had hit the 36 hole lead after a 72 at Berri was disqualified for a rule breach which had occurred during Monday's round at Coomealla. The rules infringement (the player changed putters after nine holes) was not brought to the tournament director's attention until Wednesday night. Rule 4-3b states that a player may not substitute a club unless it is damaged Bywaters had thought that it was within the rules to change his putter. To make matters worse he was relegated to second place in the daily competetion on Wednesday, losing a countback to Coomealla's Paul Wright. Cranbourne clubmate Steve McPherson is now in second place with Coomealla's Graham McClellan one shot further back. In the ladies section Sue Laird did what she had to do scoring an 80 to sew up her third title in three years. Laird leads by nine shots from Portsea's Jenny Jeffreys (88) who seems to struggle in South Australia. Jeffrey's is not the only one to struggle though, with a significant number of contenders in all grades slipping out of contention. The South Australian leg is not popular with a lot of the players but is an important ingredient as what makes this golf tournament quite unique. In the stableford grades Mansfield's Robyn Baker leads Yarrawonga's Pat Cook in A grade. Jane Derham from Royal Melbourne leads B Grade by one shot from New Zealander Rose Alexander, Perth's Dorothy Thomson and Pakenham's Yvonne Barrott. Derham, playing for the twelfth year since 1997 is in contention for 54 hole title for the first time. Mornington's Di Holdsworth blitzed the field at Berri with 43 points and now leads C grade by one point from Perth's Merle Thompson with Tasmania's Elaine Cox a further point away. Coomealla's Paul Wright is two points in front of Dom Bonnadio from The Heritage and Perth's John Eliffe in A grade stableford. Hugh Ferry from Croydon is four points clear of Cranbourne's Ray Matthews in C grade whilst Yarrawonga's John Cook looks home and home seven points ahead of his nearest rival. Conservatively there are still over forty players who remain in contention at Mildura today for the final round for one of the 14 fifty four hole trophies which will be presented tonight at the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club. Much interest will also centre on the four person teams event culminating with a lucky draw including all teams for a holiday to New Zealand from Jet Set Mildura.

12/5/9

Red Cliffs Open
The 2009 Red Cliffs Open will be conducted this weekend and the club is hoping that district golfers will support it with the same sort of numbers that turned out for the Merbein Open at Mildura recently. Red Cliffs has conducted some fantastic Opens in past years and are planning for another big weekend. Andrew Stewart and Justin McPhee will start nominal favourites as past winners of the event but it would be no surprise if any of a dozen players triumphed. Promising juniors Jake Laubsch, Tyler Ver Beek and Tim Walker have all displayed touches of brilliance this season and only need to put two consistent rounds together to succeed. Red Cliffs has been involved in meaningful discussions with Lower Murray Water and fell confident that they can sustain their course through to 2011 and beyond. Appropriately the Red Cliffs Club have come on board as a major sponsor this year to support another Red Cliffs community event. Entries can be phoned through to the club on 50 241531.
Stenson on Fire at TPC
Swedish professional Henrik Stenson put on an absolute clinic in the final round of the Tournament Players Championship to shoot a 66 to win by six shots from England's Ian Poulter. Playing in the last pair Tiger Woods was expected to sweep past playing partner and overnight leader Germany's Alex Cejka but both players crashed and burned. Swedish caddie Fanny Suneson now carries Stenson's bag after first becoming famous as Nick Faldo's caddie several years ago. Arron Baddeley was the leading Australian matching Stenson's 66 on Sunday but finishing eight shots back. This event is one of only three including the US Open and US PGA where the Americans toughen up their golf courses for a tournament. Subsequently the scores balloon out and only a handful of players get anywhere near their usual week to week scores. The US Open is the next major tournament in June and it will be played at a public course in New York - Bethpage which will be another brutal physical and mental test. Naturally Tiger will be the man to beat.
Rotary Charity Day
The Annual Charity Golf Day conducted by Irymple Rotary Club will be held this Sunday at Mildura Golf Club. The event is a medley ambrose in 4's and the proceeds will be directed to the Victorian Bushfire Fund. So far this event has raised over $40,000 for local organisations and projects. Entries can be directed to John Fitzgibbon on 0417 348 750.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

5/5/9

Cameron Stewart Wins 2009 Merbein Open
It has been a fair while between drinks for Cameron Stewart but that all changed at Mildura on Sunday when he clinched the 2009 Merbein Open with rounds of 71-75. Stewart has been so close on numerous occasions in the last six years but just hadn't been able to close the deal. The win was the beginning of what will be his most memorable week in the years to come as he will tie the knot in marriage on Saturday. Naturally golf will feature in the honeymoon to Tasmania as a game at Australia's number one public access course Barnbougle Dunes is planned. Runner up Coomealla's Jacob Slimmon 73-75 is fast becoming the best current player not to have won a district open. The door will be left ajar for him at Red Cliffs on May 16-17 or Robinvale on May 24th. Andrew Stewart 75-75 could also be our fifth open winner this year if he can improve on Sunday's as he has been close in each open so far. Merbein were delighted with the field of 113 players and the support of Mildura Golf Club Resort and it's members.
SDGA Pennant
The Sunraysia District Golf Association have announced final details of this year's pennant season. In an exciting development Broken Hill have been added to the SDGA as a member club and round one and two pennant will commence there on May 30-31. A weekend in Broken Hill is sure to get the competitive juices flowing and is the ideal timing for the new club's entry. It will be the first time many of our pennant players will have even been to Broken Hill let alone see their excellent golf course. Originally the course had sandscrape greens but after purchasing grasses from Murray Downs about ten years ago it is now a dessert classic. This year for the first time there will be four divisions with division three and four off handicap. Coomealla will field five teams with Mildura and Riverside four, Red Cliffs and Broken Hill three, Merbein and Wentworth one but none representing Robinvale. Wentworth will host the finals on July 5th as well as the district championships on July 11-12. Matchplay golf head to head is the finest form of the game and an ideal way for golfers to hone their skills and sharpen up their game.
TPC at Sawgrass
This week the 36th Tournament Players Championship will be played at TPC Sawgrass golf club stadium course in Jacksonville Florida. The Americans contend that this tournament is the unofficial fifth major but no one outside the US seem to agree. The stadium course was purpose built specifically to cater for big crowds of spectators. Water is everywhere and crocodiles are almost as plentiful as the kangaroos at Coomealla. Australian players Steve Elkington and Adam Scott have both won the tournament in recent times, last year Spain's Sergio Garcia was the winner. The signature hole at Sawgrass is the par 3 island hole 17th. The green is almost completely surrounded by water and as with most of the other holes is an amphitheatre. Playing there ten years ago I popped one into the water on 17 for a double bogey but the record is held by an amateur player who ran up a less than quick 66 after bombing 27 holes into the water!
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

27/4/9

Merbein Open
Mildura Golf Club will play host to competitors vying for the 2009 Merbein Open this weekend. It will be interesting to see if there is a head to head between the districts big three- Greg Rhodes, Ashley Whitehouse and Tim Petersen. All three would be keen to add another Merbein Open title to their alreday impressive records. Merbein are currently renovating nine greens so Mildura's offer to help out this year was gratefully accepted by the Merbein committee. That's the good news. So far the entries for the tournament are much less than anticipated but hopefully the phone at Mildura's pro shop (50 228089) will start ringing off the hook today and tomorrow. Merbein members are great supporters of every other Sunraysia golf club open and are always well to the fore in district pennant. They now need the support of all the players who played in earlier opens at Coomealla, Riverside and Mildura. The news from Red Cliffs, Robinvale and Wentworth are that their courses are really improving condition wise and recent rain will continue to assist growth. Those clubs will be looking for that reciprocal support for their opens in May and August so these clubs should encourage their members to help out Merbein this week. Hopefully the Mildura members will also lend their support on their home course.
NWWG Pennant
The NWWG Inc will commence Sunday pennant and Winter pennant at Wentworth this Sunday. There are so many new ladies taking up golf with the Driving Range and Riverside in particular running successful beginner clinics. Mildura, Coomealla, Riverside and Red Cliffs will have strong representation in both competitions including all grades in Monday pennant. Expect to see quite a few new faces beginning to emerge.
Odd Balls
Lots of funny stories are told and played out at a golf club, here is one. One of the districts top golfers was having trouble with his putter during a round at Coomealla recently and resorted to using his driver instead of his putter. On the hardest hole on the course (14th 407 metre par 4) he hit driver then seven iron then knocked in the putt for a birdie three. Everyone thought that was fairly special but at the same time not advised to be tried by anyone on a handicap more than 0! A Riverside man who mainly plays at Coomy decided to go one up the following week on the 420 metre par 4 ninth. After hitting driver then driver again to reach the green he kept the big waddy in hand and attempted to make birdie but failed. Two putts with his driver gave him a par which he maintains really "Spoons" the previous feat!
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

20/4/9

Mildura Open Success
Mildura Golf Club were delighted with the success of their open tournament at the weekend. One hundred and ninety players was an excellent field with the scoring across the board lower reflecting the great condition of the golf course. Tim Petersen did it for all the lefties and reinforced what we already knew about his golf. He has a real talent for golf and even though his focus is not as strong on golf as it has been, he is a real chance in any event he tees it up in. So far this year there have been three Open's (Coomealla,Riverside and Mildura) for three different winners (Ash Whitehouse, Greg Rhodes and Tim Petersen) which is great for Sunraysia golf. The open season continues at Mildura on May 2nd and 3rd when the Merbein Open will be contested followed by the Red Cliffs Open on May 16-17. Mildura have offered the use of their course to Merbein for it's 2009 open as Merbein currently has nine holes closed for renovation. Andrew Stewart has been knocking on the door in all three open's so far and a win on his home course for the Merbein title would not surprise.
Red Cliffs Ladies Open
The district ladies open season hit off at Wentworth yesterday, the Red Cliffs Open will be played next Wednesday April 29th in combination with their Opening Day and special effort for the NWWG inc. Ladies have the option to play either 18 or 27 holes and entries should be phoned to Captain Jill Eyles on 50 241379. Michelle Fumberger won the ladies section at Mildura on the weekend from Sue Laird and they should be the top two again. The draw will be listed in Monday's Sunraysia Daily, however late entries will be accepted.
Tri-State Masters entries
Entries for the the 17th annual Tri-State Masters will be extended until Friday May 1st. The tournament will be played at Coomealla on May 18th, Berri on May 20th and Mildura on May 22nd. Entries have come from New Zealand and almost every State in Australia and is a wonderful opportunity for local golfers to meet and greet visiting golfers with similar interests, both on the golf course and at several social functions. Trophies will be awarded to A,B and C grades in both men and ladies daily and additionally fourteen 54 hole sections will be rewarded at weeks end. An optional four person aggregate stableford teams section keeps everyone's interest right till the last putt and again this year Jet Set Mildura will make available a trip to New Zealand for one lucky team. The daily competition is stableford but there is a scratch section for the A graders and over 50 seniors. Since 1993 over 4000 entries have been received from more than 1100 different golfers. Entries and enquiries should be forwarded to Sunraysia Golf Factory 152A ninth street, phone 50 222923.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

13/4/9

Local Junior Girls Victorious
Our North West Women's Golf association were well represented at Bendigo last week in the Kay Marlook Shield. The division three shield was won by Lucy Young, Caitlin and Emily Hancock. After defeating all other teams in division three the girls were over the moon and eager to get back home and out onto the golf course. Kay Mahlook initiated the event in 1987 to give girls an opportunity to learn and play matchplay golf. The girls were so inspired that they are already planning for next year and hope to encourage more girls to go so that the NWWG will have at least two teams represented. All clubs need more girls playing golf so this win could be the boost and incentive for more girls to take up the game.
Mildura Open
All golfing eyes will focus on Mildura Golf Club this weekend for their 2009 Open. Greg Rhodes last won at Mildura in 2007 but his is the dominant name on all of Mildura's honour boards. Rhodes won at Riverside two weeks ago and is hot to trot for the weekend. Mildura's open has been fantastic in recent years with the trophies first class and another big field is anticipated this weekend. In the last five years Ashley Whitehouse (2008), Tim Petersen (2005) and Andrew Stewart (2004) have all raised the trophy and they will again be prominent. The golf course is in terrific nick and a score of even par will probably be needed to win.
US Masters
The US Masters was another huge success this year. Angel Cabrera was brilliant even though luck played a significant role at the end. Hitting out of the trees and deflecting onto the fairway allowed him to stay in the contest on the first play off hole against Kenny Perry and Chad Campbell. On the second hole a par was enough for him to become the first Argentinean to win the Masters. Cabrera's idol, Robert De Vicenzo was the equal leader in 1968 but mistakenly signed for a 4 instead of a 3 causing him to miss out on a play off. Cabrera has such soft hands which appears to allow him to "caress" his putts with incredible control. American Kenny Perry looked home and hosed with two holes to go but the Kentuckian slipped on the last two holes when his draw became a block then a hook. Lee Trevino always said that "you can talk to a fade but a hook won't listen" and such was the case with Perry. Tiger just couldn't get on song but his tussle with Phil was great viewing. Mickelson shot a brilliant 6 under par front nine but stumbled around the back. Geoff Ogilvy was our top performer but a long way off he lead. The next Major will be US Open at Bethpage Golf Club in New York which is a public golf course, even this far out Tiger is the man to beat.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

6/4/9

Rhodes Wins Riverside Open
Greg Rhodes came from behind to win his nineteenth Riverside Open on Sunday after beginning the second round in third place. Recent Riverside club champions Steve Wilmann (2008) and Ben Hogan (2005) had shot great rounds of three under par 69's to lead Rhodes by one shot. Travis Patton came home strongly to record a fine round of 39-34-73 to be in equal fourth place. Indeed, there were six players still in contention as Cameron Stewart and Tim Petersen had also had 73's. On Sunday Hogan really took it up to the champ turning two shots in front after the first nine holes. Rhodes eventually edged ahead to be two up after the 15th. Disaster struck Hogan on the 16th when he hooked his ball into "Veit's gully" where he took a triple bogey 7 and his challenge was over resulting in a 79. Wilmann was never a chance on the second day finishing with an 81. Cameron Stewart was the eventual runner up after two consistent rounds of 73-72. Tim Petersen struggled with a 76. There was an exciting finish in the ladies section when Marg Lampard recorded two solid rounds of 87. Marg plays off a 14 handicap and was surprised to tie 6 marker Sue Laird who had 83-91. In the sudden death play off on the 18th, Laird regained her composure with a par giving her another win and Lampard a taste of golf at the sharp end of the tournament and a chance she may not have thought possible beforehand. Mildura Golf Club will host the next district open from April 17-19.
Council-Community-Water-Riverside
Riverside Golf Club sits on crown land and as such rely on the Mildura Rural City Council to oversee and assist with the on going viability of the golf course. Clubs such as Red Cliffs golf club own their own land but Riverside must bow to it's master. The council meet tomorrow night and the question of water will be tabled in relation to Riverside's allocation. Surely common sense must prevail. Riverside along with Mildura and our other district golf clubs has bought thousands and thousands of people to Mildura to play golf. This has been going on for fifty years, unlike some other events and festivals that are "one off's" but are supported to the hilt and then are unheard of again . Riverside has had to make their course a "preferred lies" course from tee to green because of the lack of water available to the club. If this situation is not rectified the ramifications will be enormous. Council and even the tourist association do not understand what golf brings to Mildura. If our golf courses dry up, so will the visiting golfers, once our district's golfing reputation is downgraded then everyone will be affected.
US Masters
The US Masters is the number one golf tournament in world and hits off on Friday morning (out time). It seems the hype surrounding the event is so much bigger this year with so many sub plots emerging. Tiger Woods is over the line according to most American experts. Tiger hasn't won the Masters since 2005 but he loves the course, is in great form and the golf course and pressure to perform, suits him down to a tee. Greg Norman is back for the first time in seven years courtesy of his third place finish in the British Open last year. Hopefully he will make the cut, at 53 that will be good finish for him as the course has been lengthened making it harder for the older players. Six other Aussies will tee it up this year including Victorians Geoff Ogilvy, Robert Allenby, Stuart Appleby, Aaron Baddeley and Queenslander Adam Scott and first timer Matt Goggin from Tassie. Padraig Harrington is going for his third Major in a row after winning the US PGA and the British Open last year. The Irishman has never won the Masters but his silky touch around the greens increase his chances. Anyone watching the event will not see any form of advertising on the course. Everything including soft drink cups, hot dog wrappers and paper plates, has to be in green, so as to be camouflaged if any litter blew onto the course and not be seen on television. No other tournament in the world has this policy but Augusta National golf Club is like no other club. The course is surrounded by a concrete wall similar to what they used to put around football grounds. My picks this year are Sergio Garcia or Justin Rose with Geoff Ogilvy the top Aussie.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

31/3/9

Riverside Open
Ashley Whitehouse is the man to beat this weekend in the 2009 Riverside Open. Whitehouse won the tournament last year after following up an opening round 75 with a brilliant 67. Whitehouse won the Coomealla Open two weeks ago and followed that up with a 69 there on Sunday. Most people expect him to be the player that overtakes Greg Rhodes as the district's number one golfer. This has been the case for several years but maybe, this might be the year that it happens. Rhodes had a hic up in the Coomy open finishing third but he has won at Riverside more than anyone else in it's history so another good showing is to be expected. Riverside club champion Steve Wilmann played well at Coomy and was runner up to Whitehouse in home open last year, he could be the smokey. Former Riverside club champion Tim Petersen is the other most promising candidate as he is fresh and ready to win again.
Kay Mahlook Shield
Sunraysia will send four representatives to Bendigo to contest the Kay Mahlook Shield. This matchplay competition has been played for many years and our district has been mildly successful during that time. Coomealla's Jackie Gray, Caitlyn and Emily Hancock and Lucy Young (also a member at Mildura) will go head to head with the States best. Jackie, Caitlyn and Emily are all products of Frank Geyer's Sunday morning clinic's at Coomealla golf club. Our district really needs more clubs to take Coomealla's lead and encourage their member parents to take both boys and girls to the club to learn golf.
Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods is coming to Melbourne in November for the Australian Masters at Kingston Heath. Forget all the hoo hah about his fee because he will make up for it in increased gate takings, accommodation packages and television exposure. Wherever Tiger goes the world watches and they will be watching Kingston Heath, arguable Australia's best golf course, Melbourne, Victoria and Australia. The last time there was so much excitement about golf was when Greg Norman was the world number one. Lots of people, particularly children took up golf because they wanted to be like the "Shark". Tiger Woods will have a similar effect, probably even bigger. He won the Arnold Palmer tournament at Bay Hill Golf Club on Sunday and is a red hot favourite for the US Masters at Augusta next week. Golf in Australia has been on the decline in recent years because less and less juniors are taking up the game, Tiger's appearance could just be the tonic to turn that situation around.
Contact me with your golfing informaton at fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

24/3/9

Whitehouse Wins Play-off
Ashley Whitehouse is the 2009 Coomealla Golf Club Open Champion after 39 holes at the weekend. Whitehouse (73) shared the overnight lead with Jacob Slimmon on Saturday after completing his round in the afternoon windy conditions. Pre tournament favourite Greg Rhodes was not at his best but was only one shot back along with Andrew Stewart. On Sunday the four slugged it out together with Stewart returning another 74 and Whitehouse slipping back with a 75. Whitehouse hit a great shot into the 18th and a birdie looked a formality but he missed and a sudden death play off was called for. Rhodes (75) had a putt to get into the playoff but his putter failed him as it had all day. He was not Robinson Crusoe though as the Coomealla greens were at their most treacherous. Riverside club champion Steve Wilmann found that out the hard way, being one under the card on Sunday coming to the 15th until he five putted for a triple bogey! The play off for the title began on the 10th which both players parred and again on the 11th. Whitehouse then clinched the title with a birdie four on the 12th. It is always better to see a birdie win a tournament than a bogey lose it. Tim Petersen has played little golf this year so his fourth placing was a good sign. Leigh Fuller (156), Cameron Stewart and Wilmann were equal fifth with Jacob Slimmon (157) and Andrew J Thomas equal eighth. Once again the Coomealla course was the winner as the greens were much harder and faster and hence the scoring higher.
Hard Luck and other Stories
There were lots of stories of what could have, should have and near misses at "Coomy" with 220 players but a couple really stood out. One lady hit a strongish drive on the 13th catching it just a little bit low, whereupon it went smack bang into a Kangaroo who didn't even notice it and continued eating grass! Another player racked up a 15 on the sixteenth but was heard to say to his playing partners "it doesn't matter, the sun will still come up tomorrow". Great attitude that. The clinker though was the poor bugger who didn't check his score card and signed for a 40 on the eighteenth. He had a 43 but his scorer missed the eighteenth score and put the 40 one line up!
This is another example of how you must check your score card carefully at the end of the round. Everyone in the club house was laughing about the bloke who had a nett 117 off a five handicap, which of course he hadn't really had.
Sunraysia Win Doherty/McInnes Cup
Sunraysia easily accounted for the Riverland Golf Association 15-5 matches to 2-5 matches in the annual Doherty/McInnes challenge at Coomealla. The challenge began in 1996 and is played as a medal matchplay at a club open alternately in each district. Last year the Riverland won for the first time since 1996 so our boys were keen to get the cup back. Next year the challenge will be played in conjunction with the Renmark open. This year's Renmark open will be played this weekend and Greg Rhodes will be the hot favourite and will no doubt be in better condition than last Sunday after he had just turned 50!
Lever Blair/Seeley at Mildura
The SDGA Lever Blair-Seely 4BBB will be played at Mildura on Saturday with a shot gun start at 1pm, cost is $12 per player. This event has traditionally been the number one district four ball for years. The following weekend will be the Riverside open where Ashley Whitehouse will be defending his 2008 title when he had 75-67. By the way, last week's column mentioned a five day membership at Mildura which was wrong. My apologies to Mildura as they have six and seven day memberships along with discounted first year memberships.
Tiger Woods is Good News
Tiger Woods is coming to Victoria and that's great. Golf in Australia has been on a downward spiral for the last decade and Tiger Woods could be the catalyst of an explosion of interest in golf for young people. A big reason for golf's decline is that less and less juniors are taking up the game and without them coming through the numbers have declined. Apart from that Kingston Heath which is arguably Australia's best golf course will be viewed by millions all over the world. The economic spin off to Tiger coming will be enormous.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

17/3/9

The Sunraysia District Golf Association will commence it's Open tournament season this weekend with the 2009 Coomealla Open. Greg Rhodes will be the man to beat, as usual and it will take a mighty performance to beat him. Rhodes is 16 under par in his last four competition rounds at Coomealla which is unbelievable golf for any amateur, let alone one is is turning 50 this week. Those appearing to be his biggest threats include Jacob Slimmon, Ashley Whitehouse, Justin McPhee and Anthony O'Brien. The 2009 Doherty/McInnes challenge between Sunraysia and the Riverland Golf Associations will also be contested within the event. Last year Riverland knocked us off for only the second time since 1996 so hopefully our boys will win the cup back. Almost 180 men will line up and up to 40 women which is a huge field foe a domestic Sunraysia event. Limited spots are still available but be quick.
Mildura Golf Club will conduct it's 18th Mildura Masters charity tournament tomorrow and another great day looks on the cards. New club professional Michael McKenzie commenced proceedings on Monday and is looking forward to a great year with the club. Mildura has a range of 5 and 6 day memberships and the club is flying at the moment. The popular Mildura Open tournament will be played from April 17-20. The SDGA's Lever Blair - Seeley 4BBB will be the first association tournament to be hosted by Mildura on April 28.
Mildura Golf Club need a big pat on the back for inviting Merbein to conduct it's 2009 Open Tournament at Mildura. Merbein have closed 9 holes whilst they replant 9 new greens making it impossible to have their open at "home". Golf clubs are commercial opponents so its goes against the usual flow that this gesture be offered. I implore all district golfers to support this open tournament if at all possible. We have already shown how we support the bushfire people and this would be an ideal opportunity to support one of our own golf clubs.
Riverside Golf Club conducted an open day on Sunday to raise money for Horsham Golf Club which was burnt to the ground recently. A good turn up ensured that over $1500 was raised on the day. Riverside will conduct their 2009 Open Tournament from April 3-5. Interesting to see former club captain George Matotek just missed out on shooting his age on Saturday. George has been a model of consistency for over 30 years and is as nice a man as you would ever meet. Keep swinging well Georgie.
The Australian Putters Association will conduct their National Championship in Sydney from May 17-22. Mildura hosted this event in recent years and we have a strong contingent representing Mildura again this year. Our two best performed "putters" over the years have been Alan Morris and Graeme Walters and no doubt they will be at the forefront again this year.
Contact me with your golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

10/3/09

Mildura Golf Club hosted their Junior Championship at the weekend with players coming from 16 different golf clubs. Stand out performer was Red Cliffs junior Tim Walker who parred the course both days in an outstanding performance. His good form carried over to Monday in junior pennant when he holed out on Mildura's sixth hole for his first hole in one. Walker could be the big improver this year and will push Jake Laubsch, Tyler Ver Beek and Ryan Laird. Fifteen year old Luke Merrit from Murray Downs who plays off 3 finished with the second best total of the tournament seven shots behind Walker. Mildura's Kristy Laird (183) was second in the girls event two shots behind Murray Downs junior Emily Smith (181). Coomealla's Lucy Young won the handicap section from club mate Tegan Bell. Mildura were delighted with the field of players from as far away as Broken Hill and Bendigo. After a reduction in juniors coming through the ranks at local golf clubs for several years it looks like things are beginning to turn. The academy has had an impact as has Garth Doherty from the driving range who is actually going into the schools to conduct clinics. Hopefully more parents will encourage their children to play golf and maybe even take them with them to golf. Names to watch this year include David Filippi, Josef Moisidis, Dominic Vartuli, Aaron Lucchesi, Hayden Flett and Trent Perry. Perry has a very strong swing and could be our first top left handed contender since Jason Zambelli and before him Andrew Keogh. The final of the district junior handicap pennant will be played at Coomealla on Sunday between Red Cliffs and Mildura two.
Entries have been coming in from all over Australia for the 17th annual Tri-State Masters. Golfers from New Zealand, Western Australia, Queensland and Tasmania bring lots of enthusiasm and excitement to the tournament in both the men's and ladies sections. All up there are fourteen 54 hole sections for the men and ladies as well as the daily prizes. Jet Set Mildura will again this year provide a holiday to New Zealand for the teams prize. By tournament end over 4200 people will have taken part in the event so far. It would be great to have a few more locals to mix with the visitors this year. Contact Sunraysia Golf Tours on 50 222923 for more information.
Tiger Woods returns to tournament golf this week at Doral golf club in Miami, the course Ben Hogan described in his playing days as the "blue monster". In 2004 Craig Parry holed his second shot from the fairway on 18 to win the tournament. In describing Parry's swing at the time, as "like a average club member" former US Open champion Johhny Miller who was commentating at the tournament created a controversy which ended in him apologising to Parry. Maybe Robert Allenby who has been playing great golf can get over the line for the first time in the US since 2001.
Ladies golf seem to be getting bigger every year with lots of new faces appearing at local golf clubs. The opening day for the NWWG inc will be conducted at Wentworth next Tuesday (17th) with a shot gun start at 9-30. The NWWG inc are expecting a bumper field to kick the season off. The 17th of March is Saint Patrick's day the association is encouraging all ladies to wear something green. Names to Helen Russell 50 276373.
Contact me with your golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

3/3/09 Golf is back

Welcome to the eighth year of the 19th hole. So much has happened in local golf since the last 19th hole in September last year. Our golf courses have been decimated by the heat and lack of water, hopefully this year will be a wet one. Coomealla Golf Club has recorded outstanding fields through the summer and will conduct their 2009 Open tournament on March 19-21. As usual the standout performer through the summer was Sunraysia's king of golf Greg Rhodes who recorded a number of sub 70 rounds at Coomealla. It may be a biased opinion but to my mind he is our number one sports person year after year, I am looking forward to the day that he receives appropriate recognition by the wider sports community. Mildura golf club have had some interesting times recently with a new golf professional appointed. Former local boy Michael McKenzie will replace Michael Swan on March 13. Swan had been the popular club professional since 1998 and will now move his teaching operations down to Riverside Golf Club. McKenzie was appointed along with Michael Barry as the first golf professionals at Murray Downs when it first opened but has been operating a sports shop in Swan Hill for almost 10 years. Red cliffs golf club will conduct their annual "Concert on the Course" on Friday March 13 at 7pm. This is a great night every year in picturesque surroundings and the club is hoping that everyone supports the night this year. Red Cliffs, along with Robinvale, Merbein and Wentworth golf clubs have been doing it tough over the last 12 months so please give them a hand by attending. Merbein golf club made the gutsy decision to tear up nine of their greens and replant them several weeks ago. This definitely was the right decision for the club to move forward into the future. Riverside have conducted several significant golf days of late and will go ahead under the direction of new president Mick Burke, who despite being a Collingwood supporter who is a terrific appointment for the club.
Coomealla golf club conducted their third annual stableford shootout on Sunday with Peter Dooley winning from Paul Wright. The concept is that the top 19 players from the summer hit off together at 8am with one player dropping out on each hole. The last two finishing at 4-30pm in a survival of the most consistent and most patient! There were a few dummy spits as players were eliminated but surprisingly only one wrong ball was played. The winner collected a voucher to the club for $580.
Geoff Ogilvy is the king of matchplay in world golf after defeating good friend Paul Casey (England) on Sunday in Arizona. Ogilvy has a great record in this event winning twice and a second in the last four years. Ogilvy is now rated 4th in the world and has left fellow Aussies Adam Scott, Robert Allenby, Stuart Appleby and Aaron Baddeley way behind. Tiger Woods is back and he will start favourite every week until his favourite tournament at Augusta where he is defending champion. The US Masters is the first major of the year in April when Chrissie's man Greg Norman will front up for the first time in ages.
Simulator golf has become popular over the last few months at Sunraysia Golf Factory. La Loma Hills golf club has 18 challenging holes but most players play the front nine which takes around 40 minutes. Best score so far was a three over par 38 by a Sydney visitor. Nine hole stableford competitions will begin next month with some great trophies on offer. So far no one has recorded a hole in one but it's not far off with some super shots just missing the hole.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

10/1/09 Junior Tournament Success

The 2009 Coomealla Junior Open was played on Thursday/Friday with a good field turning up again this year. Merbein's Tyler Verbeek 84-73 overcame a four shot overnight defecit to win by one stroke from Coomealla's Jake Laubusch 80-78. Tyler who is almost half Jake's size proved to be a real fighter and it became a virtual matchplay contest as they played together both days. It will be interesting to follow their progress this year along with Red Cliff's Tim Walker who had 76 in the second round. Left hander Trent Perry is another up and comer with a really strong swing and his nine under handicap 36 hole score gave him a ten shot win in the handicap section. Jacquelin Gray was a comfortable winner of the girls section with an impressive total of nett 134 winning from Kristy Laird on 152. Unfortunately girl golfers are few and far between in Sunraysia but we always seem to have one or two really talented players.
Coomealla Golf Club continues to break records with great fields over the Christmas break. One hundred and eighty one players plus 30 ladies turned out on Saturday January 3rd and the good news is the field moved beautifully.

2/1/09 Big year of golf in Sunraysia

It is four months since my last 19th hole and I have had lots of people asking for it to return on a weekly basis, so here goes. The Sunraysia district is gearing up for a big year of golf with the inclusion of the Broken Hill golf club into our association. Broken Hill will be the venue for the first two rounds of district pennant this year in early June. The inclusion of Broken Hill should be a real shot in the arm for local golf and should increase the traffic between the two cities. Broken Hill has a fantastic golf course which was transformed from a sand scrape course after turf was purchased from Murray Downs in the mid 90's. Having played the course last year I would recommend it as a great golfing destination. Locally, golf is on the up and up but unfortunately not all clubs are faring well. Coomealla is going through a boom period with record fields every week. In the last week alone more than 600 have played in rostered competitions at the club which is exceptional for our district. Mildura is also attracting good fields as well as lots of green fee players. Most of the other courses are struggling due to a number of reasons, the drought and lack of available water, not being the least of these. Everyone in golf is hoping that things turn around for these clubs as it is not healthy to have two strong clubs and five struggling. I hope that conditions will improve and that a couple of these clubs return their focus to the core business of their clubs and that is the golf course. Unfortunately in some cases that focus has been lost and other priorities have taken over.
Sunraysia juniors continue to dominate
Over the last four months several local juniors have emerged as outstanding prospect for 2009 and beyond. Coomealla/Mildura 14 year old Jake Labaush has had some terrific results reducing his handicap to 6 and winning the comp at Coomealla on New Year's day with a 76 off the stick. Merbein/Coomealla's Tyler ver Beek has also been in great form and both of these boys could push for selection in the district team in October if they continue to improve at their current rate. There are about 10 local kids showing great potential at present but much will depend on who coaches them this year as potential can be a dangerous word if the next steps aren't taken to develop that potential.

27/8/8

Percy To Defend Coomealla Senior Title
Cobram Barooga's Ross Percy will be back in Sunraysia at the weekend to defend his inaugural 54 hole 2007 Coomealla Senior (over 55) Championship title. Over 100 seniors will tee it up at Coomealla on Monday which is about a ten per cent increase on last year's field. Percy is in top form after winning the Peninsula Senior Open two weeks ago and loves the Coomealla course of which he is a former club champion. Biggest threats to Percy on paper appear to be Buninyong's Chris Tatt who plays off a 1 handicap. Tatt represented Australia three times in international amateur tournaments as well as being chosen to play for Victoria six times between 1979-85. Earlier this year Tatt won the Victorian Sand Greens championship at Maldon with a score of 5 under par. The whole Tatt family will travel to Mildura for the week and son Travis who also plays off 1 at Buninyong will be carrying the bag for dad. Chris has won Buninyong's club championship 13 times while Travis has won it twice. Other players expected to be in the finish are Sandhurst's David McDonald who leads the State's scratch and handicap averages for the Seniors after 10 events. Mt Gambier's John Beaumont should also be in the finish as he has performed very consistently to be just behind McDonald. Almost half of the field are off single figure handicaps with 20 players off 5 or less. Twenty five ladies will also tee it up adding a bit of glamour to the tournament. Twenty five Coomealla members have entered but only four from the other six district clubs, which is very disappointing but not surprising. Over 100 participants and their families will be in Sunraysia for a minimum five night stay which is fantastic for our district. Congratulations to club captain Alan Scorer, his committee, Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club and Auto Synery for this exciting initiative.
Sunraysia Primary Students Shine in Cohuna
The 2008 Victorian Primary Schools Regional Final was played at Cohuna last Friday. Sunraysia sent four players down who had qualified from 40 starters in our district final at Mildura Golf Club earlier in the month. Domenic Vartuli from Red Cliffs Golf Club won the 9 hole event on Stuart Appleby's home course with Coomealla's Josef Moisidis third, Ben Collins sixth and Kane Razis just out of the placing. Domenic and Josef will now contest the State final Box Hill Golf Club on Monday. Golf desperately needs more youngsters playing golf and it is teffific that this incentive to achieve is available whilst nine holes is still not to taxing for the kids.
2008 Club Championships
Matthew Lynch continued his dominance in the club championships at Wentworth at the weekend. Lynch began the third round on Saturday five shots in front of arch rival Nathan Gard but soon lost his lead after Gard returned a brilliant one under par 70 to Lynch's 78. On Sunday however, Lynch righted the ship to overcome Gard with 71 versus 77 giving him a three shot victory. Garth Doherty won the Merbein championship comfortably from young Tyler Verbeek who looks to be a star of the future. Doherty who turned 30 on Friday was a bit "hung" on Saturday and started poorly. His recovery around the back nine was quite spectacular as he finished birdie, birdie, birdie, par then eagle on the 18th for a 73. On Sunday a 77 was enough to give him a comfortable victory. At Mildura after two rounds Ashley Whitehouse remains four shots in front of Brendan Rowse after both had 74's. Whitehouse will be all out to close out Rowse in the third round on Saturday but Rowse is likely to turn up with more than just a new hairstyle this week and still looks a good bet. Andrew Stewart crashed with a 78 but is still only five off the pace so if he can recover his first round form a three way fight might eventuate on Sunday.
The Easiest Shots in Golf
From time to time one meets lots of different characters whilst playing the wonderful game of golf. Recently I played with an interesting fellow who had a very amusing way of putting setbacks on the golf course into perspective. This bloke who plays off a 26 handicap explained to me that his favourite golf shots were the practice swing and the conceded putt. The rest he said "could never be mastered" He went on to say that "if I hit it right, it's a slice. If I hit it left, it's a hook. If I hit it straight, it's a miracle!
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

20/8/8

Club Championships
Mildura Golf Club hosted the first round of the 2008 club championships on Saturday with their biggest field (81) entered for the four days for more than ten years. For some unknown reason the club championships haven't attracted good fields at Mildura for years. Perhaps it is because four rounds is a lot of golf for the older players in the club of which there is a vast majority. Mildura usually attracts fields of 120 or more on most Saturdays, this year they changed their championship format to Saturday, Saturday then Saturday Sunday. This replaced the two weekends in a row that almost all of the other clubs use. Ashley Whitehouse leads the tournament with an 71 that could have been much better. Five birdies, four bogeys and nine pars is a bit inconsistent for perhaps Sunraysia's most consistent golfer (bar Greg Rhodes). Most golfers claim that if they hadn't missed this putt or that shot that they would have had a much better score, but that's golf. Whitehouse actually got to three under the card but handed back two shots with soft bogeys, which, for him is unusual. Andrew Stewart returned to form with a par round of 72 adding extra spice to the rest of the contest. It would be terrific if Andy could maintain his current form so that he is still a chance on the last nine on Sunday week. The enigmatic Brendan Rowse also kept in the hunt with a 75. This is far from his best but four strokes is not an unassailable lead to catch in three rounds. Rowse can do anything and would surprise no one if he came out and blitzed on Saturday. After his first round I like his chances this year. Cameron Stewart continued to struggle with a 77 but Cam is capable of putting in a sub par round at any time and this Saturday would be a good time.
Matt Lynch 75-76 is five shots clear of Nathan Gard 78-78 at Wentworth with Darren Bottomly 84-78 a further six strokes back. Lynch is a class golfer and would appear to have his third title in a row home and hosed. Wenty's field for the championship is down this year which is disappointing for the club as the course is returning to it's best.
Garth Doherty 73-77 leads pocket rocket Tyler Verbeek 78-80 at Merbein whose field is similar to last year. Doherty played well on Saturday after not playing for several weeks, on Sunday however his form lapsed somewhat. In third place is one of the Merbein districts favourite sons in Roger Walder. Walder had his best ever round on Saturday but struggled to maintain the form on Sunday. A week is a long time in golf so they all have a chance to improve this weekend.
Red Cliffs Ambrose
Red Cliffs had a terrific field of 136 on Saturday for their annual Pioneer/Bettess ambrose. Winning team this year was Oscar Mannix, Peter Wright, Ryan McEwan and Justin McPhee with a 59 off the stick! Second best with 61 nett was the club captain's team of Mark Woodhouse, Josh Lee, Jason Hartley and Craig Warn. The Red Cliffs course is also coming back and the numbers are increasing in the clubs competitions each week.
Blind Fire-fighters
Heard a story about a group of four golfers who got stuck behind a slow group one Saturday afternoon. After six hours on the course one of the golfers approached the club captain and complained about the slow play. The captain explained that they were four fire fighters who had all lost their sight from fighting the fires. On hearing this one of the complainers an American pledged $50,000 to assist them in any way the money could. The second a French doctor offered to assist with locating a specialist to assist with any optical complications they may suffer from. The third member, an Englishman had a restaurant and offered that all four could bring their families to eat at his restaurant any time for free. The fourth man an Australian asked the captain if it was possible that the fire-fighters could play at night instead.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

13/8/2008

Sunraysia Juniors Hot in Snow
The Sunraysia junior district team travelled down to Trentham at the weekend to contest the 2008 Victorian Country Regions championship. Last year for the first time in memory we missed the event but this year our boys excelled. Nearly all of the other teams from Ballarat, Wimmera, South Western and East, West and South Gippsland had much older boys than our group who were taller, stronger and on much lower handicaps. This didn't deter our kids one bit as they were super keen to play and do their best. It was freezing cold for the first round on Saturday but neither the weather or the strangeness of the course that they were all playing for the first time deterred them or curbed their enthusiasm. Our boys averaged nett 72 which was excellent under the circumstances and looked set to exceed that result on Sunday. State officials warned on Saturday night however, that play may have to be abandoned on Sunday if it snowed. The boys couldn't care less about rain wind or snow - they just wanted to play. Well, it did snow on Sunday but not heavily enough to call the event off and again our kids did very well averaging nett 72 once more. Sunraysia won the silverware for the handicap section of the tournament which was simply outstanding given that they were nearly all representing Sunraysia for the first time. Mildura's Ryan Laird was our top performer winning the individual handicap section with nett 72-65. Thirteen year old Jason Tassone also shone brightly with nett 69-72 just pipping his brother Daniel who had 68-70. Twelve year old Domenic Vartulli from Red Cliffs was another to do well recording nett 69-75. Other members of the winning team were Tyler ver Beek Merbein, Tim Walker and David Filippi Red Cliffs and Jade Hall-Kelly Riverside. The trip home in the bus included the trophy proudly positioned on the front seat in a seat belt. Next year junior officials Sue Laird, Tom Gigg, John Filippi and Neville Walker are hoping that the team will contest three tournaments outside the district. It is also hoped that the Sunraysia District Golf Association return to the tradition of providing the team with our official SDGA uniform. Whilst nearly all of the other districts looked resplendent in their district colours our boys were dressed like browns cows. The majority of this group should be together for at least four years so it is important that everything is done to give them the best chance to succeed and be able to wear the Sunraysia colours with pride. Just as our senior team does every year at Country Week in Melbourne.
North West Womens Golf Championships
Tomorrow Coomealla Golf Club will host 70 ladies in the 2008 NWWG championships. At time of writing Michelle Fumberger had not entered so that leaves Mildura's Sue Laird, Coomealla's Nycole Riordan and Red Cliffs Julie McEwan as the main contenders for the title. The Coomealla greens are like Royal Melbourne's at the moment so she who putts best, (or least) wins.
Club Championships
Men's club championships begin this Saturday at Merbein, Wentworth and Mildura golf clubs. Garth Doherty didn't play at Merbein last year after winning the Riverside title for the second time at Riverside in 2006. Doherty will start favourite from last year's champion Chris McGinty who was a surprise winner last year. McGinty hasn't played much golf this year preferring football but is keen to defend his title. Other contenders include outstanding junior Tyler Ver Beek and former footballer Phil Matotek. Matt Lynch looks a sure bet again at Wentworth but he can expect spirited opposition from Nathan Gard and Darren Bottomly. Ashley Whitehouse is naturally the man to beat at Mildura. Whitehouse always performs well in the club championships even when he hasn't been playing well. 2007 Murray Valley champion Brendan Rowse is the man most likely to provide the most opposition. It all depends whether Rowsey is switched on as he can be a bit of a Jekel or Hyde. Rowse's best would match Whitehouse but last year after winning the Murray Valley he crashed in the first round. You can't win a four round championship in the first round but you sure can lose it, which is what happened to Rowse last year. Other contenders are the Stewarts Cameron and Andrew. Cameron has led this championship on a number of occasions but has never been able to close the deal on the last day. Mind you, it was either Greg Rhodes or Ashley Whitehouse that overtook him. The thing is though, if you can do it on day one, two or three, then day four is achievable if the mind is right. It would be terrific if one of the Stewarts could close the deal as they have been great servants of the Mildura golf club.
Hopefully as many members as possible contest their club championships this year as it is the biggest event each year at every club, irrespective of your handicap it is always nice to win your grade. Good luck to all golfers who have the commitment and courage to have a go!
US PGA
The US PGA championship played at the weekend was great viewing. Whilst few people enjoy watching champion golfers shoot ten over par, the ones who succeed are just fantastic to watch and the others remind us of ourselves, even though it is at a much, much higher standard. 2007-08 British Open champion Padraig Harrington was just so classy. Harrington's last nine holes in particular had to be seen to be believed. Again (as is usually the case) it was the difference in putting that sealed the deal. Harrington just kept knocking in the pressure putts which put the heat back on Sergio Garcia who missed three putts in the last three holes. Garcia keeps knocking on the door but there always seems to be at least one player who won't let him in. Next month the Ryder Cup between the US and Europe will light up our screens with Europe starting odds on. Tiger Woods won't be playing but I reckon the Yanks might just win this year against all odds. Sort of like Collingwood last weekend!
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

5/08/2008

Jake Laubsch Wins District Junior Championship
Jake Laubsch has played some really good golf this year at Mildura and Coomealla but his round at Wentworth recently was outstanding. Even though there were older boys competing in the 2008 Sunraysia District Golf Association junior championship Jake's one over par 72 was the best of the day. This lad has a big future in golf if he continues to improve and pursue the sport over the next few years. His winning speech at the presentations was a classic when he said " You all played well today, but not well enough!" This wasn't said with anything other than his exuberance and delight in winning the championship but it sounded funny at the time. Red Cliff's Tim Walker was second with a fine 74 and he also is headed for a bright future in the game. Red Cliffs Dom Vartulli was the winner of the under 14 section from Josh Jeffreys and Christie Laird won the girls with 89 with Lucy Young best nett on 73. Broken Hill sent down a contingent of juniors and now Sunraysia will reciprocate later in the year. Following on from the championship a junior the SDGA junior representative team to play at Trentham golf club this weekend was announced. Unfortunately under 18 winner Regan Cavallaro and runner up Ryan Haynes are unavailable as is Laubsch which weakens the team considerably. The team is Tim Walker, Tyler ver Beek, Ryan Laird, Jade Hall-Kelly, Daniel and Jason Tassone, David Filippi and Dom Vartulli. Team manager is Sue Laird.
Greg Rhodes 2008 Wentworth Open Champion
Greg Rhodes 67-73 played ordinarily at Wentworth at the weekend but still managed to come in two under par and win by seven shots from Andrew Stewart 71-76. It sounds a bit odd doesn't it to say he played ordinarily but his standards are just a bit higher than most of us? Rhodes has been on cruise mode for most of the year and it is just a matter of how many putts he makes as to whether he finishes under or over par on most days. Andrew Stewart found a bit of form but lost the family argument when brother Cameron knocked him off for the 36 hole handicap on a countback. Wentworth had a small field which is disappointing as the course was in very good condition and their greens are a delight to putt on. Doug Rowsell gave the locals something to cheer about when he cleaned up B grade with two handy scores of 83-81.
Merbein On Track
Merbein Golf Club will be closed for business from August 11th till 15th due to extensive irrigation works being carried out on their fairways. Merbein sought and were granted a government grant to put in a new irrigation system that will water their fairways from 150 metres into each green (par 4's and 5's). This is a great imitative by Merbein who have been more than pro active in recent times in researching and finding out what grants are available so as they can improve their golf course for it's members and guests.
Coomealla Senior Open Championship
Entries are now being taken for the second annual Coomealla Open Senior Championship to be conducted from September 1-3. Last year this event was a resounding success and many visitors who played in it suggested it was the top senior event of the year. Pretty high praise but even at this early stage everything looks in order to exceed last year's field. Some Coomealla seniors (over 55's) are playing senior events at Kingston Heath, Peninsular and Yarra Yarra next week to spread the word about the Auto Synergy sponsored event. Ross Percy returned to Coomealla to win the event last year and it will take some great golf to knock the former club champion off.
Club Clinics
Women's Golf Victoria recently sponsored a series of clinics at local primary schools which were very popular. Further to that promotion more free clinics will be held over the next few weekends at district golf clubs for any new golfers. Coomealla (phone 274658) and Mildura (50 235082) this Saturday from 9am - 11am and August 16 from 9-11 then at Red Cliffs (50 241531) and Riverside (50 234255) on August 10th and 17th from 9-11. This is a great opportunity to get started with some free tuition.
Contact me with your golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au

30 July 2008

Golf Week
The Heritage Golf Club's Luke Bleumink 71-70 is a five shot leader after two rounds of the 2008 Murray Valley Championship. Bleumink was the 2007 Ivo Whitton winner in Melbourne golf last year making him the States most consistent player. On Monday a 71 at Mildura left him only one shot behind overnight leader Kieran Pratt 70-76 from Commonwealth Golf Club. An eagle on the par 4 fourth hole kick started his round at Coomealla yesterday and he will be very hard to beat over the last two rounds at Riverside and Mildura. Pratt should not be discounted as he is capable of sub par rounds and with 36 holes to go five shots is not insurmountable. Sanctuary Lakes Daniel Valenti 76-71 and Kew's Daniel Popovic 76-71 are lying equal third with Craig Hasthorpe next with 74-74. Sean Baumgurtel 78-74 leads the local challenge from Garth Doherty 75-79 but there will not be a local winner this year. 2007 champion Brendan Rowse 78-78 struggled with his putter on both days and will be hoping for a return to form today and a better showing at Cobram Barooga at the weekend. Coomealla's Jacob Slimmon continued his on/off form with an 80 then disqualification for signing an incorrect scorecard at Mildura then a brilliant 70 including six birdies. Riverside should provide the best scores of the tournament so far today which will hopefully set up at grandstand finish at Mildura tomorrow.
British Senior Open
The British Open was fantastic viewing at Royal Birkdale two weeks ago but the Senior British Open at Royal Troon was almost as good last week. One of the highlights was five times British Open winner Tom Watson hitting all 18 greens in regulation in the first round. The wind that day was horrendous but Watson's control of the golf ball was amazing. It is a different game of golf on a links course where you have to land the ball short on some holes and "run it up" to the pin. American style golf is more like darts as it is all about hitting greens on the full, then it becomes a putting competition. Greg Norman got off to a bad start but came home strongly to finish tied fifth with Watson. Norman looks no different in his body shape than he did 20 years ago and his swing is still a thing of beauty. So many of the great names teed it up at Troon including Norman, Watson, Bernhardt Langer, Ian Woosnam, Sandy Lyle and Craig Stadler to names just a few. This week they are all teeing it up in the US Senior Open in Colorado Springs and there will be a top class field including all of the American big name players. The winner last week was little known former fire-fighter Bruce Vaughan from Kansas (where Tom Watson is from) who won in a playoff with John Cook. Vaughn had a less than spectacular career as a PGA professional but this win puts him up in a different category now - a major winner, all be it a senior major.
Young Australian Trophy
The club winners of the Young Australians Annual Trophy recently contested a playoff at Mildura to decide our district champions in the event. Club winners were Lynda Saunders and Ang D'Amico from Riverside, Nycole Riordan and Mick Bacon from Coomealla and Joan Dean and Roger Walder Merbein. Winning pair in our district final were Mabel Crouch and John Bothroyd from Mildura from Bobbie Ramsay and David Filippi from Red Cliffs who will represent Sunraysia in the State final to be conducted at Royal Melbourne on September 28.
2008 Victorian Primary Schools Championship
The regional qualifying event for the Victorian Primary Schools Championships will be held at Mildura Golf Club on Monday August 4th. The tournament is open to students in grades 4,5 and 6 whose schools are members of the Sunraysia Primary Schools Sports Association. The event is over 9 holes with separate competitions for boys and girls. A regional final will be conducted at a later date. All players must be able to consistently hit the ball and supply their own golf clubs. Entries for the event close tomorrow so any parents wishing their child to play should contact Paul McLean at Mildura South Primary on 50 232148 ASAP.
Contact me with any golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

23 July 2008

Brendan Rowse On Track For Golf Week
Mildura golf club's Brendan Rowse will defend his 2007 Murray Valley Championship with a degree of confidence next week. Two rounds will be played at his home club Mildura and one each at Riverside and Coomealla golf clubs. Rowse's knowledge of these courses gives him a distinct advantage against his strongest rivals. That said though , Luke Bleumink from the Heritage golf club in Melbourne looks a real threat having been a recent winner of the Ivo Whitton trophy as the leading amateur in Melbourne. Kieran Pratt is another top contender having shot 15 under par to get into a playoff for Australia's most prestigious amateur tournament, the Riversdale Cup in April. He lost the playoff but to shoot 15 under at Riversdale is spectacular golf. Craig Hasthorpe is a winner in New Zealand this year so all three are well credentialed performers who should feature at tournament end. Rowsey is perhaps in better form this year coming into the tournament compared to last year and will face fewer top players from Melbourne this year. Last year Rowse shot three under par for the 72 holes but will probably need to better that to beat Bleumink, Pratt and Hastorpe. Wouldn't it be terrific for Sunraysia golf and Sunraysia sport if he could pull it off again this year? Sue Laird looks well placed to win her first Murray Valley ladies championship to add to her Tri-State Masters title and Mildura and Coomealla club championships this year.
Sunraysia's Juniors and Ladies Golf Push
The Victorian Golf Foundation have backed a program throughout Sunraysia in an attempt to attract more juniors and new ladies to take up golf. Most schools have been approached to include some golf lessons and practise into their sports curriculum which will hopefully bear fruit in the not too distant future. Golf is becoming a sport for predominantly older people, just check out the Saturday fields at most of our golf clubs and you will see what I mean. So we desperately need younger people getting interest in the game. Most clubs have also set up ladies clinics and the tide is starting to turn with lots of ladies putting their hands up. Anyone who is interested in these clinics should contact their nearest golf club for more details.
Tyler ver Beek Continues to Shine
Merbein golf club's 14 year old dynamo Tyler ver Beek had a dream start to his round at Merbein on Saturday. Standing knee high to a grass hopper he reeled off five birdies in the first five holes. What's that,Rodesesque did you say? Tyler finally finished up square with the card to par his home course for the first time. This really is a phenomenal performance and should give him the confidence to set some fairly lofty goals. A spot in the 2009 Country Week team is not
beyond him if he continues to improve at his current rate. Another goal would be to reduce his handicap from 7 down to 5 by the end of the year. Go for it Tyler, you can do it.
Greg Norman Oh So Close
If Greg Norman had of won the British Open it would have provided the greatest shot in the arm for Australian golf since he first rose to prominence 25 years ago. Norman was absolutely sensational for the first 54 holes but just couldn't continue that form on the last day. Don't knock him though because he was way out in front of Adam Scott, Geoff Ogilvy, Allenby, Baddeley, Appleby and the other 13 Aussies who teed it up. He really only played initially as a warm up for this weeks Senior British Open, so he never would have expected to do so well for so long. Our local players thought that the conditions were brutal on the first day of our SDGA championship at Coomealla last week but that was a walk in the park compared to the weather at Royal Birkdale. Even though Norman didn't win, it illustrated yet again what a prodigious talent he has and how history won't recognise his greatness as a golfer because of his bad luck and near misses in the big ones.
Perth Golf Tour
Kym and I have been in Perth hosting our 2008 golf tour and I can recommend the West as a great golfing holiday destination. We slipped down to Margaret River and sampled some of their wineries, (our local wines compare most favourably price wise) lavendar farms and chocolate factory. So far we have had a hit at The Cut, Meadow Springs, Araluen, Secret Harbour, the Burswood today and finally Joondalup on Friday. It is interesting that three prominent golf clubs in Perth are either going into the hands of the receivers or have already done so. As I said, a Norman win would have been the best thing to happen to Australian golf as things are tough in golf, irrespective of where you go. This is our third golf tour to Perth following on from previous tours in 1996 and 2004 and it just goes to show that these bigger clubs are not bullet proof.
Wentworth Open
Wentworth Golf Club will be hoping for a big field in their open tournament on August 2-3. This will be the final open for the year and I am hoping that most of the districts guns enter and go head to head. Brendan Rowse and Jacob Slimmon will be away on that weekend robbing the field of a bit of class. Call the club for entry details.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

16 July 2008

Rhodes Master Class at Coomealla
It was no great surprise to most people when Greg Rhodes won the Sunraysia District Golf Association Open tournament at Coomealla on Sunday. It was somewhat of a surprise though, how casual and relaxed he was in shooting a three over par 75 on Saturday. At any time playing golf on a weekend Greg Rhodes likes to listen to the local (son Brendan plays for Imperials) and AFL football between shots. Perhaps this relaxed state of mind is in part, a factor in why at age 49 he is playing better than ever. Saturday's conditions were almost brutal, freezing cold, wind and fast greens on our most difficult golf course. Rhodes was surprised to find himself in the lead on Saturday night but he shouldn't have been as he had played to the daily course rating of 75. Only a half a dozen of our very best golfers broke 80, amongst them Brendan Rowse 76 and Anthony O'Brien 77. On Sunday the sun came out and the wind dropped and so did the scores. Rhodes shot 16 pars and two birdies for a workmanlike (for him) 70. Anthony O'Brien played well for 72 and Brendan Rowse had a disappointing 75. Of the others, Jacob Slimmon had an excellent 71 following on from an 80 on Saturday and Tim Petersen shot 72 after an 82. Rhodes proved once again that he is the master and remains top of the class 25 years on from when he assumed that lofty position in Sunraysia golf. It remains a constant source of disappointment to me however,that only four people followed the leading group on Sunday. Rhodes at his best is the closest you will ever see to a touring golf professional but few local golfers have actually followed him to see for themselves how brilliant he is with a golf club in his hand. Maybe, just maybe, Sunraysia people might get that last opportunity to see him at his best in a major local event next year. We will have to wait and see.
Country Week Team Announced
The Sunraysia team was announced at Coomealla on Sunday night. As usual there a couple of players who can count themselves as fortunate to be included and at least one who was unlucky to miss out. The team is Justin McPhee, Ashley Whitehouse, Brendan Rowse, Tim Petersen, Jacob Slimmon, Andrew Stewart, Anthony O'Brien and Cameron Stewart. Those who must surely have scraped in on performances this year are Justin McPhee and Cameron Stewart who have both been fine soldiers in previous years but have both struggled for form this year. Sean Baumgurtel can count himself unlucky as his scores and win loss ratio in pennant was probably his best ever but he himself didn't expect to be included this year. Anthony O'Brien had a great year in VGA colts pennant in Melbourne and justified his selection by finishing second on the weekend. Jacob Slimmon is the wildcard for Melbourne this year. He can be red hot or very cold. If he can take his A game to Melbourne then it makes our chances in division two much more optimistic. Last year our boys really put their best foot forward so everyone is hoping for a repeat performance, be it at a higher level. By the way, Greg Rhodes was not available.
Golf Week at Riverside, Coomealla & Mildura
The Golf Week committee in conjunction with the Red Cliffs Golf Club have decided to move most events listed for Red Cliffs in Golf Week this year to Riverside and Mildura Golf Clubs. Red Cliffs have experienced greater challenges with their course this year due to the drought and it was decided by both parties that the increased traffic caused by Golf Week would put further pressure on the course. Whilst the greens are in first class condition, some fairways have deteriorated without our normal rain and irrigation. All three clubs share in the income of Golf Week and both Mildura and Riverside have agreed to still split all monies three ways as would normally occur. This is to be applauded as it is a terrific gesture by the two clubs. In saying that it is expected that Red Cliffs members and committee will assist in the running of events at the other clubs. In a time of adversity when every dollar is hard to find I am delighted that clubs are supporting one another even though they are in opposition to one another in a business sense.
British Open
The golfing spotlight falls on Royal Birkdale this week for the 137th British Open. Players from 27 countries will vie for the Claret Jug and it would be terrific if it was an Aussie this year. Geoff Ogilvy and Nick O'Hern appear to be our best chances whilst I like Robert Karlsson and Andres Romero. Two other crowd favourites who should feature on Sunday are Ernie Els and Sergio Garcia.
Lars Holden from Mildura to Vietnam
Former Sunraysia Matchplay champion, Coomealla Golf Club champion and later club professional Lars Holden returned to Mildura last week. I remember Lars when he first started playing golf at Mildura Golf Club when he used to annoy the dickens out of club professional Bruce Milgate. He was a kid that was so determined to get what he wanted and never gave up or got too despondent if he didn't achieve his goals immediately. He lost his mum sadly at 16 years of age just before he lost the 1991 Sunraysia Matchplay Championship to Greg Rhodes at Coomealla. I will never forget the roar from the gallery on the fifteenth green when he knocked in a long birdie putt to win the hole and stay live. He lost at the 16th but vowed that he would return and win this event one day. The next year his dad took the three Holden boys to Kyneton and Lars completed his HSC. The following year he returned and worked for Steve Darmody in the pro shop at Coomealla and worked hard on his game. He won the club championship at Coomy and knocked off Greg Rhodes one up in the Sunraysia Matchplay Championship at Mildura. From there he moved to Melbourne to do a three year golf professional traineeship at Medway Golf Club and lived with my daughter Carmen and her boyfriend. In 1999 he returned to be the club professional at Coomy and in 2000 took up a position teaching golf in Singapore. From there he moved to Vietnam where he took up a position as a golf professional at an enormous Golf Club in Hanoi before finally stepping up to club manager. Lars oversaw 400 staff and caddies, organised corporate golf days, professional golf tournaments and a myriad of tasks associated with the position. It really is hard to fathom that the little boy back in those early years, then young wide eyed enthusiastic youth that left Mildura in 1994 could do all this. Last month he was headhunted to head up a new Greg Norman golf course in Hochi Min City where they expect to attract 300 members
@ $100,000 per membership, he commences that position on August 1st. It was great to play with Greg on Saturday and Lars on Sunday. To have played well with both of them would have topped off a perfect weekend but you can't have everything you want!
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

9 July 2008

Coomealla Breaks the Drought - Finally
To go into a pennant final as underdogs after losing to the same team five years in a row is tough on any team but Coomealla overcame their inner demons on Sunday. It is said that golf is 90 per cent mental and 10 percent physical, so golfers have to look inward to achieve their goals. Few people, even at home, seriously gave "Coomy" a chance after losing to Mildura 4/1 the previous week. On top of that their best player Tim Petersen was less than 100 per cent fit and walking 36 holes was always going to be a tough ask. In pennant matches the match ups are crucial as teams don't play in order of handicap and this was the case on Sunday. Tim Petersen rose to the occasion easily beating Ben Hogan, proving that under adversity he really is a "cut" above the rest. The two key contests were between district number two Ash Whitehouse and this year's biggest improver Jacob Slimmon and Leigh Fuller versus Cam Stewart. Whitehouse was in great form winning the comp at Coomealla on Saturday but the "newcomer" was equal to the occasion winning one up after 36 holes. This was a great win by Slimmon who has played extremely well at Coomealla this year but has been a little bit disappointing in the Opens and earlier pennant matches. After Mildura's Brendan Rowse and Andrew Stewart squared up the ledger against Glenn Marr and Sean Baumgurtel the deciding match was between Leigh Fuller and Cameron Stewart. This was a cracker of a match with Fuller holing a 25 foot putt at the 36th hole to force a playoff which he duly won at the 37th. This could be the Coomealla start of a Mildura like dominance as the jungle drums are beating that there could be quite a few defections over the river next year. Wentworth won a close match in B grade and only need another two players to be really competitive in A grade next year. Maybe a few from Coomealla might help bolster "Wenty" if there is the expected transfers from Victorian based clubs next year. Perhaps the inclusion of young up and comer Jake Laubsch who had won all four matches before being dropped by Mildura for the final would have made the difference. This seemed strange to drop a 16 year old playing off 8 who was undefeated against some top opposition. In C grade Riverside made it a black day for Mildura when they inflicted the City club's third loss of the day. Riverside have been great supporters of district pennant and very strong in pennant for many years, particularly in the lower grades. From a district point of view it was terrific that the pennants were shared between three clubs, two of which are much smaller by comparison to Mildura and Coomealla. All in all, Sunday's golf once again proved that matchplay golf is, in the immortal words of Sean Baumgurtel, "golf's purest form" and that the "cream always rise to the top".
Who Can Conquer Rhodes at Coomealla?
The Sunraysia District Golf Association's 36 hole open tournament hits off at Coomealla on Saturday and Greg Rhodes is, as usual, the man to beat. Rhodes has won the Coomealla Open by 12 shots in 07 and 17 shots this year against the best in the district. It would seem he is unbeatable at Coomealla but golf is full of surprises and as we have seen with Tiger Woods, everyone can lose sometimes. Not that I am hoping that will happen, I just hope that all of our district "guns" can fire this weekend and put some real interest into Sunday's second round. The top four players from Saturday will play together and I expect them to be Rhodes, Whitehouse, Rowse and Petersen. Others who could contend include Jacob Slimmon, the Stewart boys, Justin Mcphee and Garth Doherty who has been runner up to Rhodes in both recent Coomealla Open's. There are still plenty of spots left in the field so get in quick and support our major Open tournament of the year. I am looking forward to playing with Greg on Saturday and catching up with former Coomealla club champion and professional Lars Holden on Sunday. Lars who these days is a citizen of Vietnam will be home for a week with his wife and family to see his brothers and his many friends in the district. He is pleased North Melbourne aren't playing on Sunday as he said he would have worn a helmet playing with me if they were!
Ouyen Open Tournament
Ouyen will conduct their six day Open tournament beginning on Thursday and running through to next Tuesday. A ladies 4BBB will commence proceedings on Thursday followed by the men's equivalent on Friday. The popular Mixed American is on Saturday and the men's 27 hole Open is on Sunday with the ladies 18 hole stroke concluding a big week of golf on Tuesday. Entries to Sue Kelly 50 922113 or Peter Young 50 921225. A great time is assured for all who make the trip to the heart of the Mallee.
Diabetes Day at Mildura
The annual "Ian Ramsay and Diabetes Awareness' charity day will be conducted at Mildura tomorrow week. The event is a 4BBB medley stableford and everyone is welcome. This is always a great day and its continued success is a tribute to the hard work that Ian Ramsay and friends put in for so many years. The $25 entry fee includes a $5 raffle ticket where every ticket wins a prize! Contact Mildura Golf Club to enter.
Oh Bev You've Done it Again!
Listeners to the Sunday Golf Show over the last 16 years would be familiar with Merbein Golf Club's Bev Cetinich who was always referred to on the show as "the beautiful, the beautiful, the Beverly". On Sunday, playing at Merbein, Bev had her playing partners in fits of laughter, once again. On the long par 3 eighth hole she played her second shot from behind a tree and closed her eyes as she hit the ball. After much searching by the group Bev finally discovered her ball inside her trouser pocket! It seems that the ball had hit the tree and came back hitting her and dropped into her pocket. It is a once in a million occurrence but it could only happen to our Beverly. Bev is synonymous with Merbein Golf Club and everyone looks forward to her welcome at Merbein's open tournaments and observing her keeping everyone on their toes, especially the menfolk!
Contact me with your golf information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

2 July 2008

Pennant Finals at Coomealla
The 2008 Sunraysia District Golf Association men's pennant finals will be played at Coomealla Golf Club on Sunday. Mildura Golf Club will feature in all three grades against, Coomealla in A, Wentworth in B and Riverside in C grade. In C grade both teams look well matched but Mildura appear to have the better balanced side. In B grade Wentworth will start favourite and the outcome could go either way depending on how the two teams line up. Mildura will probably need to do a "shuffle" to improve their chances of victory. In A grade Mildura appear to be a "lay down mazier" after knocking off the NSW team 4/1 last Sunday at Mildura. That match was played in the morning and was followed by Mildura playing Riverside and Coomealla playing Merbein/Wentworth. I went along in the afternoon to observe our elite players and maybe get a bit of a feel on how they would go, not only next weekend but also the following weekend in the SDGA Open, also at Coomealla. I began playing district pennant in 1981 and thought I had seen it all, until Sunday. Two senior top ranking players who shall remain nameless, not only disgraced themselves but also the golf club's that they were representing. A hastily convened meeting on the spot by SDGA representatives immediately disqualified both players, making their contest null and void. In SDGA pennant rules, no player can use a golf cart unless they have a medical certificate. That made it easy for the officials to make that decision. It was the condition that both players were in that disappointed me more than the use of the golf cart. Call me old fashioned but I believe when you pull on the jumper, shirt or uniform of a sporting club in top line competition that you show some respect for, the competition, your opponents, your club and most importantly, yourself. I'm not sure if their actions deserve some sort of suspension but at the very least they should be sanctioned in some way and directed to apologise to the SDGA and their own clubs. Maybe the inclusion of a "no alcohol during play" clause should also be added to pennant rules from here on in.
Mildura Golf Week
Local golfers intending to play in any event of the 61st edition of Mildura Golf Week beginning on August 2nd should submit their entry to Mildura Golf Club asap. Draws will be finalised by the committee for all events next week. A lot of new faces from South Australia and country Victoria will front up for the first time this year, which is encouraging for the ongoing viability of the tournament. The Victorian Golf Association are sending up six young men to contest the Murray Valley Championship against our local defending champion Brendan Rowse. I for one hope that local people support the event and continue on the tradition of golf and social camaraderie that has been so important to Golf Week since the 1940's. It would also be good if the local tourism office got off their collective backsides and went down to the golf courses and found out why these people come to Mildura. Thousands of golfers come to Mildura to play golf each year and maybe that number would at least double with a concerted promotion of Mildura and district as an excellent golfing holiday destination. The Golf Week and Tri-State Masters organisers have carried the golf promotion can for Mildura Tourism for too long and should be given the support that over 15,000 people staying for a minimum of six nights deserve. But then again, who's interested in golf, other than golfers?
Vale Doug Williams
Last week a golfer called Doug Williams passed away five days short of his 89th birthday. Doug was still playing golf up until about two weeks ago and was as sprightly and cheeky as ever. Ne never failed to give me a serve and quite rightly so, I would have been disappointed if he hadn't. Doug moved to Mildura 20 years ago and began playing golf regularly at Coomealla. I first met him when we were grouped together with David Guild and John Daffy in the inaugural Holden Scramble in 1992. Doug was a sensation that day and holed several big putts including a 25 footer on our last hole which ultimately enabled us to win. Steve Darmody was the club professional at the time and so he accompanied us down to play in the regional final at Bacchus Marsh. Steve had taken up teaching aerobics at the "Coomy Club" at the time and hadn't played much serious golf for some months. This became evident in the opening holes at Bacchus Marsh but his game improved after Doug put him right in the picture that he was supposed to be our "main man". It was only at the funeral yesterday that I learned of Doug's prowess as a cricketer having played Sheffield Shield for Western Australia after playing in Richmond's first ever division one cricket premiership prior to the war. Doug loved the Tigers and loved playing golf with his son John and grandson Jason, even though in recent years he needed to carry an oxygen cylinder to get him through 18 holes. On one occasion last year the battery on the apparatus went flat on the 14th but no way was Doug going to pull the pin and he duly finished the 18 holes, be it slightly out of breath. You meet some nice people on a golf course but none better than Doug Williams.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

25 June 2008

Laird of the Manor
Sue Laird has taken over as the "Queen " of ladies golf in Sunraysia this year. Last week was a standout week for her when she won the ladies club championships at both Mildura and Coomealla golf clubs. Those wins followed on from last month when she successfully defended her 2007 Tri-State Masters championship win. No one takes their golf more seriously than Sue and it is a credit to her that she is now achieving her goals after all the hard work and practise that she has put in over the last five years.
Sue's son Ryan and daughter Kristy look to be following in mums footsteps as both look to be going ahead in leaps and bounds with their golf at Coomealla and Mildura. Out at Red Cliffs Julie McEwan went back to back in their championship in another commendable performance.
Last Pennant Rounds
Mildura Golf Club will host the last rounds of home and away SDGA men's pennant on Sunday. Last week I suggested that Mildura was undefeated but this was incorrect as Coomealla had their measure when they last played. Mildura and Coomealla had two winners each on that occasion but a no show by one of the Mildura players resulted in a forfeit and a 3/2 win to "Coomy". This Sunday Mildura will be looking to reverse that result with a full team which will include Ashley Whitehouse. Last Sunday at Red Cliffs Coomealla scraped in against Riverside 3/2 after Glenn Marr took 21 holes to overcome Robert Veit. Almost 25 years ago Veit was the number one golfer in the district when Marr, playing in his first year for Robinvale, at Robinvale, beat Veit for the first time. The years have rolled on but the result was still the same, except that it took Marr much longer to claim victory on Sunday. In the other contest Mildura were much to accomplished for Merbein/ Red Cliffs. Country Week Captain Justin McPhee has struggled for form so far this year and no doubt will be looking to put some "runs on the board" against Riverside and Coomealla on Sunday. Country Week selectors will announce the representative team at Coomealla at the conclusion of the District championships on July 13th. As usual it will be very interesting to see who is chosen and
who is left out. Sometimes form is not the only factor in the criteria for selection. Experience at Country Week counts for a lot, potential for future years, being able to be a "team contributor" and fit into the team plan all comes into team selection. Clearly some of the players that will probably be selected this year would not have ticked all the boxes in past years but these days it might be the same song but a played to a different beat. Last year the team performed admirably in Melbourne but this year will be tougher in division two. Greg Rhodes would make a huge difference to going up or going back, division wise, but it is unlikely that he will be available. I would like to see a return to the formula used in the late 80's when some talented juniors were included the group to act as caddies which also gives them a taste of what Country Week is all about. This plan proved successful with most of those juniors following on in the team the year after. Naturally cost is a factor and is the reason why the plan was dropped but I believe it was a great investment for the future development of the team.
BMW German International
Last week the BMW International was played in Munich. Germany's Martin Kaymer was a runaway leader after carding a "Woodsesque" 63 on Thursday to street the field. Come the last day he was 6 shots clear and doing it "on the bit". Sometimes, as Greg Norman found out on several occasions, a big lead can be harder to defend in golf than a big deficit. Denmark's Anders Hansen hit the front by days end, leaving Kaymer who had suffered a triple bogey and gone to 4 over par, needing to birdie the last hole to get into a play off. With a back drop of waving German flags more akin to a soccer match or Grand Prix, Kaymer resurrected himself to birdie the 18th for a second time in a matter of minutes making him the first ever German to win that event. This win virtually assures him a place in the European Ryder Cup team in September when they play the US in America. Every week the European Tour goes to a different country and almost every week there is a different winner. There is no Tiger Woods but everything about the coverage is really refreshing compared the it's US equivalent. Usually these events are telecast from 10 or 11pm at night from Thursday through Sunday on Fox Sports and if you love golf and have pay TV it is a must see.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

18 June 2008

Men's Pennant in Full Swing
Merbein Golf Club hosted the third round of men's SDGA pennant on Sunday in fine conditions. In division one perennial winners Mildura remained undefeated after caning Riverside 5/0. As usual Mildura look odds on to win another pennant this year. In the other contest Coomealla won 4/1 against Merbein/Red Cliffs. Coomealla looks to be the other team in the final at Coomealla on Sunday July 6. This year nearly all of the division one contests have been fairly one sided with only Coomealla looking capable of toppling Mildura. Playing at home in the final tips the scales back a bit, but, everything would have to go right for the "blue and whites". It is terrific that Merbein have joined up with Red Cliffs in division one but it would be even better if Wentworth and Robinvale returned to their former strength of past years. Robinvale doesn't have a team in men's or ladies pennant which is disappointing for everyone in district golf. Some of my best pennant memories are of trips to Robinvale or playing against the red and whites. A talking point regarding pennant has been the behaviour of some players over the first couple of rounds. It seems that some players have celebrated in a fashion usually associated with Tiger Woods or maybe even Leyton Hewitt. It is a bit unusual to hear a volley of "come on's" out on a golf course. Even stranger to hear it at the conclusion of a match in the face of an opponent. The star of district pennant so far has been the big "Boomer" Sean Baumgurtel who has so far knocked off Steve Wilmann, Brendan Rowse and Justin McPhee. They are three great scalps to capture and it was most noteworthy to see Sean let his clubs do the talking. It will be interesting to see what happens in the last three contests as sometimes it is difficult to not only "talk the talk" but "walk the walk" when you are "the" man to beat. In division two the top two teams at this stage are Mildura and Wentworth. Wentworth stand out as they have several really low handicappers who would normally hold their own in division one. Pennant this week is at Red Cliffs with the last rounds at Mildura on June 29.
Top Junior Team
After not competing in the junior matchplay tournament against other Northern regions last year, this year should be all systems go. Some of our top juniors have excelled so far this year with most continuing their good form in men's pennant. Merbein's Tyler Ver Beek has been a stand out performer who is improving on a weekly basis. Red Cliff's Tim Walker has really improved and looks on the way to emulating his big sister Christie who is now a trainee golf professional. Mildura's Jake Laubsch is another red bullet performer along with club mate Ryan Laird who is progressing well. Throw in Ryan Haynes, Regan Cavallaro, Jade Hall-Kelly and a strong contingent from Red Cliffs and our junior stocks are looking good.
District Championships
The SDGA championships will be conducted at Coomealla on July 13th and 14th. Greg Rhodes will be the red hot favourite having won the last two Coomealla Open's by an aggregate of 29 strokes. In April this year he was 17 shots ahead of his nearest rival. The only way I could see anyone beating Rhodes is if he plays poorly or if the Coomealla greenkeeper Ossie Cummings sets the course up a little easier than usual. Coomealla is a hard test of golf at the best of times but when the tees are back (as they should be) and more importantly the pins are set in tough positions, then it favours the best player. Nothing wrong with that, except, that I strongly believe that the course should be set as a good test but not to US Open standards. Look, at the end of the day surely the aim is not to humiliate the average club golfer but to give them a reason to turn up to the next championship at the course. I love the Coomealla course and believe that Ossie Cummings and his staff do a great job but hopefully the golf course will be a fairer test for everyone this year.
Big Events at Red Cliffs and Ultima
Two big events occur on the same weekend next week. Red Cliffs golf club will conduct their annual Beef & Burgundy Day on June 28th. Great trophies, wine, beautiful beef stroganoff and sweets along with a sip or two of "port" on the course should warm up all players. Open to all, bookings essential on 50 241532 or 50 242388. Last year the inaugural "Ultima Ball Whackers Not-for-a-sheepstation" fun golf weekend will be played. Four 9 hole events will be contested, a $5 entry fee for each nine will include a BBQ and trophies. Juniors, ladies, men and all visitors will be made most welcome. Last year this weekend was lots of fun. You can stay at the pub and there will be supervised activities for non golfing children. Phone Sonia on 50 396368 or Kelvin 50 39 6330.
US Open
The 108th US Open at Torrey Pines in California was fantastic. Had 45 year old Rocco Mediate won, it would have been the biggest turn up since amateur Francis Ouimet won from the Englishman Harry Vardon in a playoff in 1913. Tiger Woods just seems to find a way to win, he is one of the very few golfers who look comfortable over a 15 footer for par. He just keeps on knocking in the hard putts. Mediate was sensational, a real crowd favourite who loved every minute from start to finish. No doubt his world ranking of 158 will take a tumble and his profile will be enormous in America. This is one time that everyone will remember who finished second in 2008.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

27 May 2008

Ouyen In Pennant Final
Ouyen Golf Club will be the underdogs in the 2008 NWWG pennant final at Mildura next Monday. Ouyen have beaten their opponents Mildura, already this year, but it will be a tougher assignment on Mildura's home track. On Monday at Coomealla Ouyen were too strong for Riverside winning 3/2. It was a great result for the small club who originally had entered division two but were asked by the NWWG to move up to Div one as only three clubs had entered teams. Four of the Ouyen girls had to give "strokes" against Riverside in the handicap matchplay format. Next week though, the handicaps are fairly even with Mildura perhaps holding that advantage. Eily Raeck is the standout player for Ouyen but Bev Manley, Marg Gregg, Barb Hahnel and Sue Kelly are all accomplished performers and it would be a real coup if they could take the title. Mildura has a very experienced team including Jan Japp, Fran Richards, Mabel Crouch, Marg McGlashan and Heather Thomas and will definitely start favourites. On Monday another Ouyen team won the sub district pennant final at Hopetoun against Manangatang giving the club their first title for some years, so it will be a hot time in the old town on Monday if "Eily's" girls get up. In division two Coomealla will meet Red Cliffs whilst in Division three Riverside will play Coomealla. Good luck to all teams.
Did you hear the one about the Rhinoceros?
Last week I featured a story about the parrot that became attached to a lady pennant player playing in the semi final at Hopetoun. This week our source has topped last week's story. Last year Lorraine Hickmott caddied for her daughter in a pennant match at Werribbee Park Golf Club. As they approached their ball they saw a rhinoceros charging across the fairway. Give you a bit of fright wouldn't it? Not long after two handlers from the Werribbee Zoo turned up to lead the "rhino" back to his enclosure at the Werribbee Zoo. It seems that a female rhinoceros had been bought down from the Melbourne Zoo to mate with its Werribbee counterpart. Obviously he was a bit shy and in trying to escape her advances he took off at high speed through the fence and onto the golf course.
Bridgman Too Good in Tri-State Masters
Gympie Pines golfer Wayne Bridgman proved too steady at Mildura on Friday to claim his first Tri-State title. It was the first time he had been back to Mildura since 1972 when he contested Mildura Golf Week. "Mildura Golf Week was huge in those days, I remember playing with Bill Britten who was a top class golfer. I didn't realise I had won the tournament until Peter Bywaters told me. I thought he had won. We have had a delightful week as I stayed and played with my son, daughter in law and their best man. All three play golf at Croydon golf club. My daughter in law saw the advertisement for the tournament in Golf in Victoria and we are all really pleased she did. We all intend on coming back next year as it was the best golf week that I have ever played in". Bridgman who is 60 years of age and plays off a 3.7 handicap but has been down as low as +1. I played with him in the last round at Mildura when he shot 73 which could easily have been sub 70 if some putts fell. Peter Bywaters who was playing for the seventh year began the day 7 shots in front of Bridgman. He probably hadn't even thought of him making up the ground as another bloke was only two shots behind. The other bloke (SD) played dreadfully but that's golf. We can't wait for next year as there were so many new people from different golf clubs who will take the story of Sunraysia and the Tri-State Masters back to their clubs and friends.
Aussie Second Again.
Rod Pampling faltered at the second last hole at Colonial Golf Club in Texas on Sunday. Pampling was one shot in front from Phil Mickelson when he hit into a hazard at the 71st hole. The resultant bogey put him back on equal terms with Mickelson and South Africa's Tim Clark. On the last hole Mickelson cut his tee shot deep into the trees while Pampling drove perfectly. It was then that Mickelson played a career shot over trees to 9 foot from the hole. Pampling was probably in shock as he left his approach 25 feet short. Mickelson knocked in the birdie putt and all America cheered. And so they should as it was the type of shot that made Arnold Palmer famous. As for "Pamps", there's always next week!
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

20th May 2008

WHITEHOUSE WINS THIRD 2008 TOURNAMENT
Ashley Whitehouse won the 2008 Red Cliffs Open on Sunday by two shots from 2007 champion Andrew Stewart 75-74. Whitehouse bounced back to form after a disappointing performance in the Coomealla Open last month after winning the first two Open's of the year at Mildura and Riverside. Difficult uncharacteristic conditions greeted players on Saturday when they hit off on the long Red Cliffs golf course. Andrew Stewart played consistent golf, as he always does at Red Cliffs which has been his best course, Open wise, over the last ten years. 2006 champion Justin McPhee 78-73 was third after stumbling on Saturday but he recovered on Sunday with the equal best round of the tournament. Ben Hogan 75-78 and Garth Doherty 80-74 made up the top five placing's. Red Cliffs were disappointed with the field of 70 players where obviously the wet weather knocked a few players out including many of the home club members. How ironical that the rain the club has so desperately been waiting for came on the only weekend it didn't want it. Sunraysia District Golf Association pennant commences this Sunday with the next Open tournament being the SDGA championship at Coomealla on July 12-13.
RIVERSIDE TOP IN LADIES PENNANT
Riverside consolidated it's position on top of the ladder in division one of NWWG pennant on Monday. Riverside versus Mildura are always hard fought matches , be it junior, ladies or men's pennant and so it was again with Riverside winning 3/2. Winning players for Riverside included Carol Benning, Lynda Saunders and Jan Moore. Red Cliffs streeted Ouyen 5/0 with Julie McEwan chipping in on the last hole to beat Eily Raeck. The semi finals next Monday at Coomealla Sees Riverside up against Ouyen and Mildura playing Red Cliffs. In division two semis Coomealla meet Mildura and Riverside play Red Cliffs. In division three apparently lots of "ferret" were frequently spotted throughout the day, particularly in the Merbein-Red Cliffs encounter. A ferret is the nickname given to a chip in. At Coomealla the ladies refer to that result as a "gobbler"!
A BIRD IN THE HAND
Heard a great story which occurred at Hopetoun Golf Club on Monday in the sub district ladies pennant encounter between Ouyen and Underbool. Underbool's Jenny Stone screamed in shock as she played a shot as a parrot landed on her head. After several attempts by her opponent, Lorraine Hickmott to remove it, she decided to finish the hole, which she won! Imagine her difficulty in playing shots with the bird entrenched on first her shoulder then her head. After winning the hole Jenny was able to dislodge her new found flying friend but it kept coming back. Eventually the two players decided to put the said bird into Lorraine's bag which they opened up every five minutes or so to let in fresh air. Perhaps Jenny should have retained the bird as she lost 2/1 at the 17th. Once in the club house Jenny's "mascot" was very pleased to fly around the room and acquaint itself with the other players. On leaving the club that afternoon the last Jenny and Lorraine saw of the bird was it perched in a budgie cage next to the Pennant final trophy they will play off for next Monday. Just goes to show there are more ways than one to get a "birdie" on the golf course!
TRI-STATE MASTERS
Another example of what a small world we live in occurred at Coomealla on Monday in the first round of the Tri-State Masters. Peter Bywaters from Cranbourne golf club spotted Wayne Bridgeman from Queenslands Gympie Pines golf club who had played with his friend John Reynolds from Mt Barker golf club in Adelaide. Peter recognised the name and after approaching Wayne discovered that all three had been in the same class at School in Adelaide almost 50 years ago! Sounds crazy doesn't it but these types of occurrences bob up a lot in this tournament each year. A lot of the players are around the same age and have come to play in an event that primarily targets travelling golfing couples. Three years ago at the presentation ceremony on receiving his trophy a chap walked past another player who recognised him from almost 40 years ago when he coached him at football in the under sixteens. As with the previous mentioned neither had seen each other since then!
Contact me with your golf information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

14 May 2008

Red Cliffs Open
The 2008 Red Cliffs Open hits off on Saturday with Andrew Stewart defending his 2007 title. Stewart has a great record at Red Cliffs and seems to play well there every year. Last year he led by one shot after the first round with five players breathing down his neck. Playing head to head with Ashley Whitehouse, Stewart prevailed by three shots with Justin McPhee third. This year Red Cliffs is hoping that the golfing community of Sunraysia supports the tournament as their members have supported Riverside, Mildura and Coomealla already this year. The greens at Red Cliffs are really slick and although it is preferred lies on the fairways everyone at Red Cliffs are confident that some great scores will come in at the weekend. A couple of the districts big names won't be teeing it up so it opens up the door for probably six or seven new contenders. A four ball event will commence proceedings on Friday. Phone the club on 50 241531 to enter.
Ladies Pennant
Highlight of ladies division one pennant at Red Cliffs on Monday was the match between Red Cliffs Julie McEwan and Riverside's Jenny Leach. A long putt on the 19th hole clinched the match for McEwan. When a match goes into extra holes it is always exciting, devastating for the loser but exhilarating for the winner. The consolation for Leach was that Riverside knocked off Red Cliffs on their own turf 3/2. Ouyen celebrated their first win in NWWG division one with a 3/2 result over Mildura. With the match delicately poised at 2 all "wily"Eily Raeck won at the 17th to send the Ouyen girls into a frenzy. In div 2 another 19th hole win dominated the club house chatter after Red Cliffs Dee Hopkins overcame Riverside's Thelma Girao. Again though the visitors won 3/2. In a day of play off's Mildura's Sally Eastoe was Mildura's pin up girl after she dispensed with Coomealla's Sue Jones to give Mildura a 3/2 result. In div 3 Riverside's Jan Dedman and Margo Adair both recorded 19th hole victories in a 4/1 result to make Red Cliff's home game a disaster for the home club in all grades. Coomealla won another close match 3/2 over Merbein to finish of a day of great excitement.By the way, who was the lady giving a "puss in boots" impersonation on Monday?
Locals Shine in Melbourne
Two of the districts biggest stars are shining in Melbourne's pennant season. Brendan Rowse is undefeated playing division one pennant for Commonwealth Golf Club after five matches, which is an outstanding performance. After he won the 2007 Murray Valley Open in Mildura Golf Week last year we knew he was destined to become a more mature and consistent golfer. The sky is the limit if he continues to work hard. Anthony O'Brien has also excelled remaining undefeated in colts pennant for Kooringal. Anthony has shown glimpses of his talent over the last five years but now looks as though he is taking the next step in his golf. Golf is the hardest game in the world to master and young men, purely by the social extension that follows a game of golf can easily become distracted. Sometimes it takes a while to get the focus back on golf, golf and more golf but it appears that Rowse and O'Brien are now on track to follow their dreams.
Tri-State Masters
Next week the 16th annual Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters hits off at Coomealla, Berri and Mildura. We are looking forward to hosting golfers from all over Australia and five from New Zealand. Whilst this is the 16th tournament the future does not appear bright at the moment. Maybe if our tourism association ever gets someone who is remotely interested in golf or promoting Sunraysia as an excellent golfing destination then we may get more people coming to Mildura to play golf. I won't hold my breath. Just for the record though, over 30,000 golfers have journeyed to Mildura since 1949 to play in Mildura Golf Week and the Tri-State Masters, both of which require a minimum six night stay. Work it out, that is a minimum of 180,000 beds. Take the revenue associated with those events out of our economy during that period and how many businesses would have suffered? Of course there are hundreds of other people who come to Mildura primarily to play golf every year. Sure there are other attractions such as the weather and so on, but our golf facilities are the main attraction for golfers. Our golf facilities in Sunraysia are first class and very cheap by comparison with other regions. If only the people who push the buttons would realise this, then the flood gates would open. For many years I have been preaching this gospel to anyone who would listen but the pulpit is starting to disintegrate.
Don't get me wrong, I am a huge advocate for Mildura Tourism in their other pursuits and fully support the assistance that the Major Events section of the Council give to "one off"events but what about supporting events that continue to promote Sunraysia year after year?
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

7 May 2008

Re-Marr-kable Round at Robinvale
Glenn Marr wrote his name into the record books of Sunraysia golf at Robinvale Golf Club on Saturday. The day started ordinarily, playing in a five at the end of the field in the May monthly medal. A par on the par 5 tenth was then followed by birdies on 13,15 an eagle on 16 finishing with another birdie on 18 for a 6 under par 30. Not bad for an Essendon supporter! After parring the first, birdies followed on 2 and 4 and visions of a 60 off the stick started appearing in front of him. Imagine how excited his other four playing partners must have been. Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, no its super Marr'ie. Just when everything was going rosily, the bogey monster appeared on 6 and 7 but a birdie on 8 saw him finish with 33, added to his 30 was a 7 under par 63. This has got to be the lowest score in the history of Sunraysia golf. Ah yes, I know the sceptics and the negative types will point to the fact that Robinvale is playing shorter at the moment and you can move your ball to get a better lie etc. But the truth is, as any golfer knows, you still have to hit the ball and knock the putts in and fight off those thoughts of falling over. This round by Glenn Marr was remarkable and I hope he receives due recognition for it by Sunraysia's golfing community. A round like this is very rare, even for our local greats of the game in Greg Rhodes and Michelle Fumberger. Glenn Marr will cherish it for the rest of his life. Sometimes as golfers we can do things that 99 times out of 100 seem impossible and it is why we keep playing, hoping for that one round, maybe not a 63, but your best ever round. Just to show the difference between a great day and a shocker, Marr's previous round in the Coomealla Open was a forgettable 85 but he bounced back. He must surely now come into calculations for the Country Week squad as his handicap has plummeted to 2.6.
NWWG Pennant
North West Women's Golf winter pennant was played at Wentworth Golf Club on Sunday and Monday. In all eighty ladies teed it up with lots of new pennant players representing their club's for the first time. Being handicap matchplay means that in theory everyone starts off on an even keel but some players are better "match" players than tournament players. Quite often the low marker will win even after conceding many strokes. Next week we will have a look at who did what when where after the second rounds at Red Cliffs.
Upcoming Events
The Red Cliffs Open is the next major tournament on the district golfing calendar on May 17-18. More about the tournament next week but hopefully all district golfers will enter Red Cliffs and make the fourth Open of the year as successful as the first three at Riverside, Midura and Coomealla. Pooncarie Golf Club will conduct it's Ray Martin Memorial Open Day on May 17th. The game is an ambrose and there is no doubt that anyone who ventures up to the "Port" will have a great day. As well as Red Cliffs and Pooncarie, the annual Irymple Rotary Club medley ambrose in 4's will be on at Mildura Golf Club on Sunday May 18th. It is most unfortunate that all three events are on the same weekend but I guess all three target different types of golfers and fun seekers so hopefully all three will be well supported.
US TPC
The US Tour Players Championship is on this weekend at the Sawgrass golf course which was a purpose built golf course owned by the US PGA of America. All the holes have natural amphitheatre like viewing as well as grandstands which give the galleries great viewpoints. The signature hole is the par 3 17th which is only 125 metres long but is completely surrounded by water. It is reputedly the most photographed hole in the world. This golf course is all about risk reward where you can go for it at your own peril or pull of some great shots. The Yanks regard this event as the fifth major, which it probably is, field wise. Since it's inception in 1974 Greg Norman, Steve Elkington (twice) and Adam Scott in 2004 are the only Australians to win "The Players) but maybe we will win it this year with Allenby, Scott and Pampling our best chances.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

30 April 2008

Rhodes Still King at Coomealla
Greg Rhodes returned to the form that he is renowned for, at Coomealla at the weekend. Rhodes has been out of sorts by his standards in the first two Opens of the year at Riverside and Mildura but at Coomealla he was nothing short of stupendous. On Saturday in tough conditions he shot a four under par 68 to blow the rest of the field away. On Sunday in wind and rain he shot even par 72 to win the tournament by a mammoth 17 shots. Rhodes official handicap is now an incredible +2, which means he has to shoot a 2 under par 70 just to play to his handicap. Garth Doherty played well on Saturday for a 73 to be 5 shots in front of the equal third place getters in Ben Hogan and Robert Veit. On Sunday though, Doherty faltered with an 84 still finishing equal second with Andrew Stewart 82-75. Pre tournament favourite Ashley Whitehouse who had won at Riverside and Mildura could not take a trick and recorded two 80's to finish 20 shots behind Rhodes. It just shows how difficult it is to win all the time. Tiger Woods can't do it and he is the best golfer the world has ever seen, so now we look forward to the SDGA championships in July The Red Cliffs Open is the next major tournament on the agenda on May 17-18 followed by the SDGA Open at Coomealla on July 12-13.
Country Week Squad Named
The SDGA named a 12 man provisional Country Week squad on Sunday, from which the team to represent Sunraysia in Melbourne Country Week in September will be named on July 13th. The squad is J Mcphee, A O'Brien R/C, G Doherty Merbein, G Rhodes, T Petersen, S Baumgurtel, J Slimmon Coomealla, A Whitehouse, A Stewart, C Stewart, B Rowse, B Hogan Mildura. The team will be pruned to either 8 or 9 after taking into account district pennant form which begins on May 25 and the SDGA Open on July 12-13. Inclusions to the squad from last year are Doherty, Slimmon, Hogan and Rhodes who is yet to make a firm decision on his availability. Interesting to see that Merbein and Red Cliffs will combine to field a team in Division one pennant this year going up against Coomealla, Mildura and Riverside. It's great to see that Riverside are also back in the top division this year.
Ladies Pennant Commences at Wentworth
The popular Sunday NWWG ladies pennant kicks off at Wentworth on Sunday. Coomealla will field two teams including Sue Laird and Nycole Riordan. Ladies pennant was formed to allow working ladies the opportunity to still represent their club's in pennant and it has gone from strength to strength. On Monday the official ladies NWWG pennant season in three grades will also be played at Wentworth. There are a number of ladies playing on Sunday and Monday giving them an advantage on the Mondays. The NWWG decided that the venue should be the same for both pennant competitions this year which should make it interesting for all clubs and their players. All ladies pennant is played off handicap and not "off the stick" as men's division one and two is played. Apparently, handicap pennant is much more popular with a vast majority of the ladies who play pennant each year.
Great Scott in the US
Adam Scott finally won in the Byron Nelson Classic in Texas on Sunday after a three hole play off against American Ryan Moore. Scott looked home and hosed in the first two play off holes but just couldn't finish the job with two relatively short putts. On the third play off hole he nailed a 48 foot putt to win lifting him from 10th in the world ranking back to 5th. He highest world ranking has been as low as fourth.
Contact me with your golf information or opinion on fax 50 247 243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

24 April 2008

Ashley Whitehouse won the Mildura Open by four shots on Sunday after another brilliant closing round of 69. Whitehouse has jumped out of the blocks early this year adding the Mildura title to last week's Riverside win, if he maintains his form he could win every open this year. This would then be known as an "Ashley Slam". The American pundits keep referring to a possible "Tiger Woods Slam" so an Ashley Slam would be our equivalent. Mind you, there are only four majors that Tiger has to win but we have seven opens this year making it just a touch harder. At Mildura on Saturday the district's most improved golfer Jacob Slimmon shot even par 72 to be the overnight leader from Whitehouse and Andrew Stewart both on 74. Sunday came and nearly all of the top liners improved on their Saturday score, which is quite unusual. Slimmon found himself in a different place to which he has become accustomed though and faltered slightly to have a 75. Greg Rhodes had a day to forget on Saturday (77) but really hit his straps on Sunday to improve by seven shots. Tim Petersen (77-72) once again finished in the top five without ever challenging and Andrew Stewart (76) slipped back from Saturday but was still fifth overall. Once again Mildura Golf Club did itself proud with 200 men and 17 ladies in the field and almost everyone full of praise for the tournament. Mildura certainly has created a level of professionalism with this tournament in recent times and fully deserve all accolades.
Coomealla will stage it's open tournament this weekend and naturally Ashley Whitehouse is a hot favourite. Whitehouse has won at Coomealla several times but there is no doubt that Greg Rhodes is always "the" man to beat at "Coomy". I doubt that the super low scores recorded at Riverside and Mildura will be replicated at Coomealla this weekend, a score of 144-145 should be sufficient to hoist the trophy on Sunday night. Coomealla is in the best condition that I have seen it in my 30 years as a member there. The greens are approaching "Augusta" like hardness and speed so there could be a few three and four putts if you are too aggressive. I am very pleased to report that there will be a seeded draw at Coomealla on Sunday as this did not occur at Riverside or Mildura. A seeded draw for the top four players from Saturday is surely the fairest way to decide who is the best player of the tournament. At time of writing 165 men had entered for the weekend so a field of around 180 looks possible. When there are big fields slow play can make it a long day, particularly if you are not scoring well. Two small things that can keep the field moving are : always being be ready to hit when it is your turn or even sometimes when it is not your turn but just to move things along. The other annoying thing that I see every week is when four players move to the next tee and all of them stand and mark their card, rather than the player with the honour playing his shot and then marking his card. Really though, the first and best rule is to keep up with the group in front, not just in front of the group behind!
Merbein Golf Club will conduct their annual Mixed Opening Day on Friday (Anzac Day) and are hoping for some support from men and lady members from other clubs. This is always a great day with the afternoon tea at the end of the day well worth waiting for. Hit off is soon after 12-00 when everyone is assembled and the Merbein hospitality really swings into gear. Things have been tough for the club this year so hopefully there will be a good turnout, profits fro the day as usual will be donated to the Merbein RSL.
Entries for the 16th Annual Tri-State Masters will close this Sunday (27th). So far we have had entries from golfers from over 70 different golf clubs in New Zealand, WA, Queensland, ACT, far NSW, Tasmania, SA and Victoria. It has been a terrific response this year but it would be nice if we had a few more locals playing with our visitors. There are 14 different individual sections and teams prizes to New Zealand and Moonah Links on the Mornington Peninsular. The 54 hole stableford event will be conducted at Coomealla on Monday May 19th, Berri Wednesday May 21st and Mildura on Friday May 23rd. Over 3500 golfers have played in the tournament since 1993, it is without doubt the district's most lucrative event with more than $30,000 worth of trophies on offer. Any male or female golf club member is eligible to enter. Contact 50 246799 for further details, but do it by Sunday.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

17 April 2008

Ashley Whitehouse (75-67) is the 2008 Riverside Open champion after a brilliant closing 67 on Sunday. Whitehouse began the second round three strokes behind overnight leader Tim Petersen but after recording seven birdies, one bogey and ten pars he won easily by five shots. Whitehouse had only played twice this year prior to the Riverside opening tournament so he now looks the man to beat from here on in. Whitehouse said on Monday "Last year there were quite a few times that I was glad to finish a round and just go home glad that it was over but on the weekend I was genuinely excited about playing. Maybe having the break from golf was just what I needed because I am really looking forward to Mildura this week and Coomealla next week. The only disappointing thing from the weekend was that my 67 could not be counted as a new course record due to the preferred lie ruling for the Open. It would have been nice to add Riverside's course record to my other course records at Red Cliffs, Wentworth and Mildura".
It was pleasing for the club and the SDGA that all of the districts top golfers turned out at Riverside after many had had a rest from competitive golf. Runner up was 2007 club champion Steve Wilmann who had two consistent rounds of 73-74. Third was Tim Petersen (72-77) who played ordinarily on Saturday but got up and down from everywhere but he was unable to repeat that performance on Sunday. Greg Rhodes (74-77) could not add the title to his previous outstanding record in the event as his putter wouldn't co-operate at any stage. One pleasing thing for district golf was the emergence of a young golfer in 14 year old Tim Walker from Red Cliffs who won B grade with rounds of 80-78. Walker is the brother of former ladies champion Christie who is now a golf professional in Melbourne.
This weekend Mildura will take their turn in the Open roster and if the past few Mildura Open's count for anything then this year should see a sell out field in both the men's and ladies sections. Sue Laird will start an odds on favourite in the ladies section but don't count out Nycole Riordan whose ability is more than matched with her determination to succeed. The men's championship begs a delicious menu with Whitehouse's great win at the weekend and Rhode's poor form. Rhodes won the 2006 Open by 9 shots after rounds of 70-70 and last year by 6 shots after scores of 69-71. Throw into the mix other possible winners in Tim Petersen and Cameron Stewart and the last nine holes at Mildura on Sunday should be very exciting.
Once again in the US Masters it was disappointing that our blokes could not deliver the goods. South African Trevor Immelman was too good for everyone including the parochial Americans. The coverage was one sided as usual with very little exposure for the Australian players or even most of the European players. This will never change whilst we take the American television networks feeds unless our players make it into the last groups on Saturday and Sunday. Even then it is not certain. The US Open is the next major from June 12-15 at Torrey Pines in San Diego California.
On Friday week a chapter will conclude in local golf when Red Cliffs greenkeeper Tom Crawford will finish his tenure with the club. Tom came to Mildura in 1998 after he had completed half of his greenkeeper's apprenticeship in Launceston. Tom's sister lives in Mildura and sent him a Sunraysia Daily advertisement for an apprentice greenkeeper at Red Cliffs Golf Club. After completing his apprenticeship at Red Cliffs he took over as the club greenkeeper and has forged a fine reputation throughout the district, not only for his skill and knowledge but also for his wonderful personality. Since moving here with his wife Amelia, two boys and a girl have been added to the Crawford family and it will naturally be with some sadness when they leave the district. Tom has been involved in some great initiatives in recent years including preparing the football ground at Quandong Park for the two AFL pre season games where he was lauded by everyone, particularly the AFL officials who were delighted with the condition of the ground. Several years ago Red Cliffs Golf Club investigated the possibility of using vacant land in the middle of the course for another project. After a suggestion for an olive farm was rejected Tom proposed a turf farm be installed and since then the farm has provided the club with an income stream which has helped the club stay on the right side of the ledger. Tom has also been the curator at the Red Cliffs Lawn Tennis Club for the past five years and has done a fantastic job. It is not hard to understand then, why there were tears recently at a RCGC committee meeting when Tom handed in his resignation. Tom whose mother in Launceston has not been well recently is heading home to Tasmania and will take up the position of head greenkeeper at the Riverside Golf Club in Launceston on May 5th. Yesterday he spoke of his time in the district saying " We have loved out time in Sunraysia, especially at Red Cliffs Golf Club. The people have been great and it has been an absolute pleasure working at the club and doing the things I did with people whose company I really enjoyed. Whilst Amelia and I are looking forward to going home we will always look back on our time here with great fondness and wish the Red Cliffs Golf Club and all it's members the very best for the future. It is a great golf club". A farewell will be conducted at the club on Friday April 24th.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

10 April 2008

The Riverside Open kicks off the open tournament season this weekend. A lot of local golfers will play in the tournament for a variety of reasons. Firstly, the "opens" are always great to play in as you get to meet up with golfers from other clubs that you don't normally see. Secondly, it is an opportunity to test yourself against other golfers of your standard and better from other clubs. Thirdly, it is good to be able to go and play at another golf course other than the one you play every week. Most local golfers who haven't played at Riverside for some time will also be curious to see how it has come back from a fairly horrendous 2007. Reports suggest that the course is looking really good and the club is confident that all who play this weekend will be more than satisfied with it's condition. Lets hope so because Riverside anywhere near it's best is arguably the most "picturesque" golf course in the district and always a "nice walk". We as a district and golfing community need Riverside and indeed all of our golf clubs to be up and firing and attracting visitors and locals alike to the wonderful game of golf. Mildura Golf Club will then conduct their Open the following weekend with Coomealla's due on April 26-27.
Tomorrow afternoon Sunraysia College of Tafe will host a meeting which has been called to establish a region within Sunraysia for the Indigenous Golf Association of Victoria (IGAV) which has been in operation since 1998. All indigenous golfers or aspiring golfers should attend as golf is a terrific sport for people from all walks of life to get together and achieve both small and big goals. Robert Utber who has been involved as an organiser of the Indigenous Golf Championship of Australia will chair the meeting in the Dulka Yuppata Koori cultural centre at Sunraysia Tafe at 5.30pm Phone Bob on 0407513357 for further details.
Friday morning, our time, the number one golf tournament of the year will hit off at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. This tournament is the closest thing to the ultimate golf event imaginable. It is 33 years since the first "black" golfer was allowed to play in the tournament. The door was closed to black golfers up until then, even though they had qualified in all criteria's that the club had specified. Tiger Woods dedicated his first win to that first player (Lee Elder) when he won in 1997. Elder was a great player who was finally admitted into the event at age 40 in 1975 and played under the duress of having 25 death threats if he played. His was a great story as he won 18 of 22 tournament on the original secondary tour which was referred to as the the "peanuts" tour because they played for such small purses. Before that Elder caddied for a big money golf gambler call Titanic Thompson who would beat his opponents and then taunt them by saying "you're so bad even my caddy could beat you". Then of course with $1000 riding on the outcome Elder would easily beat the sucker golfers. Woods is the odds on favourite again this year and as usual it appears that anyone who beats him will win. New Zealander Steve Williams who caddies for Woods is also recognised as the doyen of the bag men and the Masters has produced many of his finest and saddest moments. His men were runners up four times before he tasted success with Woods. Caddying for Ray Floyd in the 90's for two second places, the latter being to Nick Faldo when Floyd was 49. Before that he carried Greg Normans bag for two second places, who could forget Norman's meltdown (also to Faldo) when he led the Masters by 7 shots only to lose miserably? This year we will have nine Aussie's to cheer for and hopefully break our duck in the event. Of the four majors, the US Masters is the only one yet to be won by an Australian. I think Aaron Baddeley or Geoff Ogilvy are our best chances this year. Channel 10 will broadcast the event live each morning from 6am-9am.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

3 April 2008

The Riverside Open begins the local golfing tournament season next week. Last year Riverside cancelled their annual Open tournament for the first time since the Murray River wiped out the course in the 70's. Riverside has endured a tough couple of years recently so all connected with the club will be hoping for a good turn out. It is not that long ago that Riverside enjoyed the biggest Open fields of the year, quite simply because of the promotion of the event and the great condition of the golf course. A lot depends upon the support of the home club members because if the majority of them turn out, then you have a great base to work on. There seems to have been a bit of a lull in recent weeks golfing wise, probably due to the late summer but the weather currently is ideal golfing weatherso hopefullyeveryone will be keen to go.
Greg Rhodes and John Keogh (69) were the top performers in the SDGA Lever Blair-Seeley at Coomealla on Sunday from Andrew Stewart and Brad Steer (71). Not all of our top players played in the event which is unfortunate so hopefully there will be a full contingent at Riverside next week. Allan Bishop and Ryan Laird (+11) were the top combination in the handicap event which is hot golf on any course let alone Coomealla. One hundred and thirty two players participated which is basically a normal field at Coomealla on most Saturdays.
Next weekend the US Masters is on at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. We have a strong contingent of Australians playing this year with Geoff Ogilvy, Adam Scott and Stuart Appleby our best chances. More about the Masters in next week's 19th hole.
We have just returned home after a couple of weeks in Europe where we went on a river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam. On most morning we awoke to the beautiful sight of snow cover fields which was quite a novelty. The two weeks prior in Mildura were stifling hot so it was a real culture shock. Most people would be surprised to hear that my favourite experience on the trip was attending a Mozart concert in Vienna which was really something. Vienna has a population of 1,500,000 people but only three golf courses. Membership at the Vienna Golf Club is $1800 per year once you have paid a $16,000 entrance fee. Naturally very few visitors are invited to play there. One thing that interested us was that the Scottish golf professional and his English assistant professional both use the GASP computer system in their video lessons which is the same system that we use at Sunraysia Golf Factory. Apparently most teaching professionals in Europe use the system.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion at fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

12 March 2008

The SDGA yearly schedule of events has been officially publicised in most club's syllabuses and a busy year is ahead for all district golfers. The traditional official SDGA opening day seems to have been dispensed with this year which makes the Lever and Blair-Seeley 4BBB at Coomealla on March 29 the 2008 "Opening" day. Riverside have scheduled their Open for April 12-13 followed by Mildura on April 19-20 and Coomealla on April 26-27. It will be interesting to see how many players line up for the Opens this year. Coomealla and Mildura Golf Clubs have enjoyed an explosion of participation over the summer due to being able to water their fairways with grey water. Other local golf clubs have struggled for the same support as water is hard to come by and getting more expensive all the time. This year more than ever there must be an agreement struck between all of our clubs to support one another's Open events. In recent years there seemed to be an attitude by club officials to encourage their members to "stay at home". We need to have seven strong clubs thriving, not surviving and that we require a golfing community spirit. Whilst a golf club's popularity tends to follow the strength of the administration which fluctuates over time, other factors such as weather and the districts economy can dictate a clubs fortune. Whilst the AFL is a far cry from our golf clubs, they take on the responsibility of supporting their weaker clubs. Similarly all of our golf clubs need to support one another, even if that is only on specific occasions, such as Open day's. The danger is if this doesn't happen we might lose one or even two golf clubs which will weaken our region as a golfing destination. Not to mention the effect that that will have on the staunch members of those clubs. I have my doubts that anything positive will come of this, but hopefully all district golfers will make a conscious decision to support at least one other than their own club each month. If this were to happen then just maybe, just maybe all of our golf clubs would get closer to the right side of the ledger.
There was some great golf on TV over the weekend. Two playoff's and a come from behind victory on the US PGA Tour. In Malaysia India's Arjun Atwal overcame 2007 champion Sweden's Peter Hedblom in a playoff. This event stopped and started due to lightening after Australian Kane Webber recorded a great round including nine birdies to miss out on the playoff by one shot. In America Sean O'Hair won for the second time on the US PGA Tour after coming from four shots behind Stewart Cink. 2007 Australian Open champion John Senden was equal third. On the US Champions Tour for the over 50's former US Masters champion Bernhardt Langer overcame Jay Haas after seven playoff holes. These guys still play great golf hitting the ball on average 270 metres off the tee.The big event coming up is the US Masters at Augusta in April.
Our Callaway representative was in Mildura yesterday after recently returning from a sales conference in China. The Callaway conference was held at the Mission Hills Golf complex in Shen Zen where they have twelve golf courses. Our man played three times over the course of the conference, once during the day and twice at night. Twenty seven holes are completely floodlit allowing 24 hour golf. During the trip they stopped off in Hong Kong which is 90 minutes away and checked out some of the driving ranges perched on top of city buildings. It sounded similar to Tokyo which I visited with Bridgestone Golf in 2006. Space is scarce in and around the cities so the only way to go is up. We are looking to do a golf tour to China and Vietnam in either 2009 or 2010 and catching up with 1993 Sunraysia Matchplay Champion Lars Holden.
I have had several emails from local club members complaining about various competitions not getting exposure in this column. I have directed them to go back to their own club officials and suggest that any relevant information be forwarded to me. Please read next line.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

5 March 2008

Coomealla Golf Club conducted the final of their summer Stableford Shootout on Sunday. It was a huge day. Nineteen players hit off at 8am and the last putt was sunk at 4.40pm. The first two holes took two hours which really tested one's concentration and patience. One player dropped out after each hole and naturally as the field diminished, the pressure to stay "in" intensified. Long time player and administrator Trevor Carroll was overheard to say on the first tee that "this is the most nervous I have felt on a golf course for a very long time". Just imagine, nineteen players all hit off, find their balls and hit to the green. There were balls coming from every direction and once on the green, the fun really began. The handicaps of the players ranged from the low 20's down to two players on 4 handicaps. If there were two or more players finishing on the same stableford score on a hole, a putt off for the nearest to the pin eliminated the furthest putter. Interestingly there were very few "wipe-outs" and not one player hit the wrong ball! This event, though very long, was a terrific imitative by Coomealla Golf Club and I would encourage all other clubs to contact Captain Alan Scorer for more information about the event and include it in their syllabuses.
Rowan Daymond completed a three year greenkeepers apprenticeship at Coomealla four years ago and moved to Adelaide to take up a position on the green staff at Kooyonga Golf Club. Kooyonga is rated in the echelon of courses in Australia so it was a terrific opportunity for the "Coomealla kid". A new course has been built at St Andrews in Scotland and a few of Rowan's mates cracked it for a job on the new course and contacted Rowan. He starts there on the green staff on March 31st. Rowan plays off a 9 handicap but doesn't play that much, most green keepers seem to spend their free time away from their place of employment but St Andrews might just be provide a bit more incentive to play more. St Andrews most famous course is the "old course" but there are currently 6 other courses within the St Andrews precinct. Rowans sister Rochelle who rose to the top of Sunraysia ladies golf is currently living in Adelaide and plays pennant for Blackwood Golf Club off a 5 handicap. She is still only young and is capable of going much lower if she chooses to put in the work to go lower.
On Friday the 14th of March Red Cliffs Golf Club will conduct their 4th annual "Concert on the Course". This is a fantastic night where people from all over the district congregate around the 18th green, listen and dance to some great music and enjoy the hospitality of the Red Cliff Golf Club. Kym and I have attended the last two years and have had an absolute ball. Tickets are available from several outlets including Sunraysia Golf Factory. Talking of great nights out, "Opera on the Lock" this Saturday (8th) night is one of the best nights of the year, don't miss it.
The 16th annual Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters is 10 weeks away but entries are coming in thick and fast. This year the tournament will be played on May 19-21-23 at Coomealla, Berri and Mildura Golf Clubs. An early bird entry prize of 7 nights for 4 people at either the Sunraysia Resort, Club Yarrawonga or the Nepean Club in Rosebud will be drawn from all entries received by March 13. Additionally, teams prizes will be awarded with packages to Moonah Links Golf Club in Rosebud and to the Sky City Casino in Auckland NZ.
The Evening with Glenn Archer last Thursday was a huge success with $13,000 being raised to assist North Melbourne Football Club's fight to stay in Melbourne. Glenn Archer was absolutely sensational and couldn't do enough for the organisers and, indeed, everyone who attended. It really was a great night and one I will remember for the rest of my life. Go Kangas!
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

20 Feb 2008

Local Mildura golfer Brendan Rowse went down by the narrowest of margins in the semi final of the Commonwealth Golf Club championships last weekend. Most Melbourne golf clubs have a qualifying round for their championships with the top eight players then going into matchplay knockout. Brendan made it through to the semi final only to lose one down after 18 holes. Incredibly his stroke score was four under the card including four birdies and an eagle. This week he is heading over to the South Australian Amateur Championship. Greg Rhodes finished second in this event in the mid nineties. Following the S A event he will line up in the Riversdale Cup which is regarded as Australia's most prestigious amateur tournament. Melbourne metropolitan pennant then commences the following weekend continuing a busy schedule for the 2007 Murray Valley Champion. Coomealla golfer Jacob Slimmon will also contest the S A Amateur after returning some great scores at Coomealla over the last two months. Slimmon, who has been living in Adelaide in recent years, came home for the summer and hit off at Coomealla in late December on a handicap of five. In the space of seven weeks he has reduced his handicap to one after playing eleven rounds (198 holes) at "Coomy" in four weeks in three under par. Greg Rhodes, not surprisingly, has been the other outstanding performer with a round of 67, two 69's and a 70 for a combined 13 under par in his last four rounds. Rhodes is playing off a +1 handicap with +2 a possibility within the next week or so.
The Moonah Classic is a new event being played at Moonah Links this week replacing the Jacobs Creek Classic/South Australian Open. This event is co sanctioned with the US secondary tour the Nationwide Tour. Jarrod Lyle will start favourite after his recent win in the Mexican Open. Former local boy Cameron Percy might just be the dark horse after good recent form and naturally the big contingent of American players should feature prominently. Percy's father Ross (74-74) who is well known locally tasted victory last week in the Lonsdale Senior Amateur winning on a countback from Helen Burke's brother Michael Jackson (73-75) from Yarra Yarra.
The Accenture World Matchplay Championship hits off today at The Gallery Golf Club, Dove Mountain, Tuscon Arizona. Eleven Australians will tee it up in the 64 man event based on world rankings. Only the US (22 players) has a bigger contingent of contenders, the main ones being Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson who won at the weekend. Last year Geoff Ogilvy finished second after winning the title in 2006.
"Uncle" Andy Briggs became the first "international" winner of the Red Cliffs Golf Club Summer Cup. Briggs won 6/5 over Brian Fury after being 5 up on the turn. It is the second year that he has come to Mildura for our summer and his English winter but will return home next week. Club Captain Mark Woodhouse, "uncle's" nephew and will not miss paying out to Uncle Andy after golf each day but everyone else at the club will miss the popular "too and from".
Make sure you don't miss out on seeing and hearing AFL legend Glenn Archer Thursday February 28th at the Mildura Workingman's Club. Limited tickets are available up until Friday at Prime Television or Sunraysia Golf Factory.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all

13 Feb 2008

Coomealla Golf Club has been really firing on all cylinders lately with tremendous fields and lots of visiting golfers. In years gone by fields of 60-70 players was standard on most Saturday's but these days the club is disappointed if less than 120 turn up. Turn up is probably the wrong terminology because Coomealla has become very professional in how they run their competitions. The majority of it's members book in via the club's web site or by telephone to the pro shop. The club has introduced some very innovative competitions over the past two years with the Summer Stableford Shootout being the standout. Fifty one members entered the event at $20 per player with the best 19 individual scores qualifying for the shootout on Sunday March 3rd. The Nineteen qualifiers will hit off with one player eliminated on each hole until there are two left at the eighteenth. The winner will then collect the biggest club trophy value in district golf. With four stableford rounds to go, 40 points is coming 16th through to 21st so it will probably take a 41 point total to be sure of qualifying. Some great stories came out of last year's shootout with one player playing beautifully for the first seven holes only to crash out after a bad hole on the 8th. If one or more players has the same stableford score on a hole then a chip off or putt off is ordered. Last year eventual runner up John Thomson left his putt off putt 12 foot short on the 11th virtually conceding elimination until the next player left his putt shorter! The next three weeks should be very interesting at "Coomy".
Red Cliffs will conduct their Summer Cup final this Saturday. Last week Brian Fury knocked off John Gray 3/2 whilst "Uncle" Andy Briggs was too accomplished for 2007 club champion Phillip Lawn 2/1. The final should be a cracker as both players are very consistent off their handicap's with Briggs having to concede five strokes.
Does your driver conform? On January first a big list of drivers with "trampoline faces" became illegal to use in club competitions. My feeling is that the majority of players wouldn't know if their driver is legal or not, but you can check. Just "google" banned clubs and a list as long as your arm will appear. Personally I believe it is ridiculous to enforce these bans on ordinary club golfers when really it is only the professional golfers that the R&A should be aiming at. It could create a few issues and arguments within clubs if so and so wins a competition and is deemed to be using an illegal club!
Mildura Golf Club has just released it's new brochure and I for one am very impressed. The publication covers all facets of the club including the golf course which is in terrific condition, restaurant, accommodation and club house activities. This will assist in bringing more golfers to Sunraysia, not just for Mildura Golf Club but all clubs, retail shops and attractions. Whilst on Mildura, recently club professional Michael Swan hosted his annual golf trip back "home" to Tasmania. Eighteen golfers took off to play at Barnbougle Dunes, Claremont, Tasmania and Royal Hobart. As usual a great time was had by all, except perhaps for the two prominent club members who ran the "book" this year. Rumour has it that the odds offered on the host were more than generous and several of the party more than covered expenses!
On Thursday January 28 keen golfer and former AFL legend Glenn Archer will be in town to speak at a function at the Mildura Workingman's Club. All profit from the night will go back via Archer to the North Melbourne Football Club. The night has been organised to assist North in their endeavours to stay and play in Melbourne. Archer has donated his time free of charge and I am really looking forward to hearing his story and opinions on a range of footballers, past and present, and so many other issues within football circles. Hopefully, even have a round of golf with the "Shinboner of the Century". Limited tickets for the night are available at PRIME Television and Sunraysia Golf Factory but be quick!
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

6th Feb 2008

Summer Memberships
Participation in club competitions at most of Sunraysia's golf clubs has been excellent in the past two weeks. The fields really pick up when the weather is a bit more tolerable. Most clubs have "Summer Cup" competitions which conclude at the end of February. Every year most of our golf clubs on the Victorian side of the river open up summer memberships at around half of the full yearly subscription rate. It gives footballers, tennis players and a host of other "winter sports" people a chance to join a golf club at a reduced rate for five months. As summer members they are given a home club handicap to enable them to play in their home club competitions. Technically this is not an official handicap as no affiliation fee for summer members is paid to the VGA. In theory, the said player is really only eligible to play in his or her home club competitions but other local clubs usually welcome all visiting club golfers. One thing that will have to be addressed by our clubs is the eligibility of summer members to actually win events such as Monthly Medals and honour board events. It is one thing to put the hand out for the quick money for summer members then deny those same members from winning. As with most things, careful consideration should be given to all parties and perhaps stated on the summer membership forms. That done, everyone knows where they stand, including the summer members, full members and more importantly the club officials who tend to change from year to year.
Vale John "Boomer" King
Last Friday I attended the funeral of John "Boomer" King. Boomer was well known in Sunraysia as he had played football for Bambil and cricket for Settlers. He was a huge man of about six foot four but he was a gentle giant who never smoked or drank alcohol, which is rare for most footballers, cricketers and golfers. After he finished playing footy he held several positions, one of which was the aboriginal liaison officer for the St Kilda football club. During this time he came to know just about everyone in the world of AFL football and anyone famous who followed football. Boomer came up with the idea to have an national indigenous football team and the inaugural match was played at number three oval in the late 80's. All the big name aboriginal footballer played in this match which they won easily. Since then of course, aboriginal footballer have really dominated in almost every State and regional football league. One day he decided he was going to become a professional golf caddy so with his numerous contacts he sought out golf professionals and began caddying. To be fair, he probably wasn't the best caddy going around, but he attracted attention and "got on" with everyone so well that he quickly became a popular bagman. He carried the bags of many great players who all loved him including Wayne Grady who was his most famous bag. Boomer caddied a lot in Australia for Grady who won a US PGA and was chairman of the Australian PGA for three years. I was privileged to have him as a guest several times on the Sunday morning Sunraysia Golf Show talking about his caddying adventures in the US,Japan and everywhere else. I remember attending the Australian Open at Kingston Heath some years ago and Boomer's man was in the last group on Saturday afternoon. The tournament was live on channel seven and naturally the situation was tense as the last group stood on the last green. The 18th green was surrounded by people everywhere as Boomer stood holding the pin just off the back of the green when he spotted Shane Warne who was standing on the balcony of the channel seven corporate box. The other "pro" in the group was Peter McWhinney who was walking around surveying his putt at the time as Boomer threw out his arm and yelled "Warney" to which Warne yelled back "gooday Boomer". McWhinney looked up and said "Boomer do you mind" It was priceless but typical of how everyone knew Boomer. On Friday at the funeral several people spoke about Boomer including Charlie Phayer who related a story of Boomer being offered a dim sim for every run he made in a third division cricket grand final. Boomer made 132 and that night he devoured every dim sim, even though it took him two sittings to do it! There were many great stories told of a man who was one of the stolen generation who went on to achieve things that very few men achieve. Boomer was a real character and he will be missed by all who knew him.
Monday Golf Show
Local golfers can still access a golf show on local radio. Every Monday on 97.9FM at 4-30 Sunraysia Golf Range's Garth Doherty will announce results of club golf competitions and present a guest from one of our local Sunraysia golf clubs. 2007 Murray Valley champion Brendan Rowse featured on Monday with Red Cliffs Golf Club Captain Mark Woodhouse the following Monday. It's great that there will still be a local golf show.
Karrie Still Queen
This weekend the Australian Ladies Masters will be played at Royal Pines on the Gold Coast. Karrie Webb who won the Australian Open at Kingston Heath on Sunday will be aiming for her seventh win in this tournament. Webb who first played in the tournament as an amateur in 1993 has won over one million dollars in the Ladies Masters which began in 1990. Japanese star Ai Miyazato who was runner up to Webb in 2005 will be her biggest threat, other than the hundreds of adoring Japanese professional photographers and journalist who follow Miyazato's every move. It was estimated that there were over 10,000 photographs of Miyazato taken at this tournament in 05. Miyazato is said to be bigger than Tiger Woods or David Beckham in Japan! TV coverage this weekend is on channel 10. Last week I stated there was no live telecast of the Aussie Open but I was wrong again as the tournament was televised on ABC. In men's golf Australian Jarrod Lyle won the Mexico Open on the Nationwide Tour and locally Marc Leishman won the Victorian PGA at Sanctuary Lakes. Tiger Woods won in Dubai after shooting a six under 31 on the last nine holes. He is about as perfect as a golfer can be. In the US over 560,000 turned up to the Phoenix Open. The crowd was 100,000 down on the last day due mainly to the cold weather and the Super Bowl Gridiron final that night in the same town. Hard to fathom isn't it, that many people at a golf tournament?
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

30 Jan 2008

Australia Day at Red Cliffs
A great field of 140 players celebrated Australia Day at Red Cliffs on Monday. The scoring was red hot with club president Michael Hogan teaming with Graham Bamford, Peter Dooley and Spida Foster to win the handicap section with an outstanding score of 51 3/8. Club captain Mark Woodhouse and his team of Steve Hopgood, Oscar Mannix and "Uncle" Andy Briggs played brilliantly for a 15 under par of 57 to win the scratch by one shot from three other teams. Red Cliffs Golf Club were delighted to host a large number of visitors from other local golf clubs who all joined in the Australia Day spirit.
Great Scott in Qatar
On the European Tour Adam Scott shot the lights out with a closing 61 to win the Qatar Masters by three shots on Sunday. Scott has been our top player for several years, unfortunately, without ever troubling the top of the scoreboard in any of the majors. Maybe, just maybe, that will change this year. On the US PGA Tour Tiger Woods blew everyone away at the picture perfect Torrey Pines in San Diego to win his fifth Buick Invitational in six years by 8 shots. Woods really is a freak in golfing terms and stated on Sunday that he believes he is playing better than ever and expects further improvement is just around the corner. It's hard to work out what part of his game he can improve on as he is the best at everything, on a golf course. Sixteen Aussies teed it up at Torrey Pines with Stuart Appleby and John Senden the best, 14 shots behind. This week Aaron Baddeley will defend his title at the FBR Open in Scottsdale Arizona. Even though the Super Bowl gridiron final which is the biggest sporting event of the year in America is on just down the road on Saturday night. The FBR is huge. More than 600,000 are expected to attend the golf tournament, weather permitting, including 250,000 on Saturday. Lets put that in perspective, 450,000 attended the recent Test Series between Australia and India. It just goes to show why it is so hard to attract top American golfers to come to Australia. They will take more in gate receipts than the combined prize money for our top four Australian tournaments. Wayne Grady finished third on the US over 50 Champions Tour at Turtle Bay in Hawaii. Grady won the US PGA title in the 90's and could earn 40-50 million on the Champions Tour over the next 5-10 years. Unbelievable, isn't it? Jarrod Lyle was the best of the 10 Aussie's at the US Nationwide Tour event in Panama. This tour is the secondary tour in the US and runs several co-sanctioned events with the Australasian Tour.
Ladies Australian Open
The ladies Australian Open is on at Kingston Heath this week and naturally we all hope an Aussie can win it. Popular big hitting Englishwoman Laura Davies won the NSW Open at the weekend at will start favourite. Karrie Webb looks our best chance but sadly we won't be able to watch it on TV this year. In America the Golf Channel or one of the other networks pick up all of the ladies events but in Australia the ratings don't justify it. What a pity. There's plenty of cricket, football and basketball, even local cycling events on TV but golf doesn't cut it with the networks. Australia has some great talents coming through the ranks in ladies golf but the print media is the only option of finding out about them. Hopefully, that will change soon.
Contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

23 Jan 2008

2008 Golf Season Hits Off
Welcome to the 7th year of the 19th hole. The 2008 golf season in Sunraysia doesn't hit off officially until Saturday March 1st but Australia Day is always a big golfing day in Sunraysia. Mildura Golf Club have decided to run their Australia Day competition on Saturday departing from the usual holiday Monday traditional game. Red Cliffs Golf Club has been a very popular destination for their ambrose in 4's with 144 playing last year. Neil Wilkie's H & R Block put on over $2000 worth of trophies covering the scratch and handicap sections and the club house atmosphere at Red Cliffs always provides a most friendly environment after golf. Phone the club on 50 245033 to book an Am or PM start.
Wrest Point International Masters
Last week Kym and I played in the 8th Annual Wrest Point Casino International Masters in Hobart and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The tournament was played at the Royal Hobart and Tasmania golf courses. Royal Hobart has "gray" water and was in superb condition whereas the Tasmanian course was extremely dry and similar to some of our courses that don't have access to gray water. Almost 440 golfers played from all over Australia with the biggest contingent coming from Queensland. The Tasmanian Government and Events Tasmania support the event financially as they quite obviously recognise the economical impact that the tournament generates. One thing that was clearly evident to us though, was that our local Tri-State Masters tournament being played for the 16th time this May measures up very well on all fronts except the assistance from local council and tourism. More than 3500 golfers have come to Mildura from over 170 golf clubs since 1993 for the tournament staying in Mildura for a minimum of six nights. You don't have to be too clever to work out what impact that has had on our accommodation, restaurants, retail stores, petrol stations, golf clubs and so on. It's getting harder and harder each year to attract new players to the event with so many new events springing up almost on a weekly basis around Australia. I am hoping that this year we can convince the people who make decisions on promoting our region to assist in attracting more new golfers to the tournament.
6/4/60 Golf
Everyone has heard of one day cricket and now 20/20 cricket but Sunraysia will be the first place to introduce 6/4/60 golf. Sunraysia Golf Factory installed a golf simulator in the store back in November which has proved to be a real hit with local golfers. Steele Denman has been conducting video lessons on the simulator which gives the student/golfer all sorts of information pertaining to his or her swing speed, swing path and a host of other technical statistics. As well as the club fitting and teaching software on the golf simulator, an actual 18 hole golf course can be played utilising every part of the game that you would on an actual golf course. The 6/4/60 concept is six holes for four players in sixty minutes and it is sure to popular, especially on hot or wet Sundays in air conditioned comfort. Bookings are essential and a 6/4/60 championship will be played later in the year. Phone 50 222923 for further details.
Tiger Back This Week
Tiger Woods commences his 2008 campaign this week at the difficult Torrey Pines Golf course in the Buick Championship having won the event in 2005-06-07. Three events have already been played on the US PGA tour and everything gears up for the US Masters in April. Australia has 8 Aussies qualified for the Masters so far but there are about 11 more chances. Robert Allenby looks our best chance of ending Tiger's run this week.
If you would like to have a golf event promoted then contact me with your golfing information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

Merbein Too Good in Summer Pennant
Merbein Golf Club are the Summer Pennant champions for 2007. Tyler ver Beek at 14 years of age is without doubt senior SDGA 'pennant's youngest ever team captain and now looks to have secured that position for as long as he wants it. It was an interesting choice by Merbein but it proved to be the right one. Chris McGinty again showed maturity against experienced opposition and looks to be a star of the future. Ver Beek, McGinty and Garth Doherty form a solid basis and a stand alone Merbein division one winter pennant team is a realistic possibility. Aaron Blake had a great pennant season as did Rodney Poole whilst Roger Walder added the experience and Walder fighting spirit that has become renowned through out Sunraysia for over 40 years. Well done Merbein.
Last Golf Show
Last Sunday I signed off on my last Sunday Golf Show and whilst it was a bit sad in some respects, it was great to talk to the two people in Sunraysia golf that have dominated proceedings on both sides of the fairway. Greg Rhodes, to my way of thinking, is Sunraysia's greatest ever sportsman, simply because he has continued to develop and improve his skills for the last 30 years. Most sports people decline in their attempts to improve as age takes over. Name someone in local sport who was number one in 1977 and is still number one in 2007? Rhodes is playing better golf now than he was as a 20 year old. Best of all though, is his humble and considerate attention to those less gifted than he is at sport. Sometimes elite sports people lose that demeanour and become somewhat dismissive. But not Rhodes. Trevor Carroll has been involved as a competitor and administrator in a number of local sports for almost 40 years and continues in an administrative role as Mildura Golf Week secretary. Carroll has always been an interesting character in all of the positions he has held and fear of repercussions over difficult decisions has never deterred him. I certainly respect him for that courage of conviction, even though at times we have not always seen eye to eye. Hopefully all local golf clubs will make a new year's resolution to fax their competition results to the Herald Sun each week, giving not only the winning players exposure but also advertising our clubs State-wide.
Paz You Little Beauty!
Craig Parry is the good news story of the year in Australian golf. To win your national title is such an honour and he thoroughly deserves all accolades that come his way. I reckon, apart from his golfing ability, he comes across as an Aussie old fashioned "good bloke". The Australian Open seems to get better and better every year, lets hope that channel 7 continue it's great coverage again next year.
6th Annual 200719th Hole Awards
Golfer of the Year - Greg Rhodes, as always. Female Golfer of the Year - Sue Laird, fantastic rise up the golf ladder. Junior Golfer of the Year - Chris McGinty, won nearly everything he played in. Most Improved Golfer - Leigh Fuller, a smokey who emerged from left field. Most Improved Female - Sue Laird, a standout, Greenkeeper of the Year - All of them, to be able to maintain our golf courses in the harshest of conditions is appreciated by most thinking golfers. Club Official of the Year - Steve Foley Mildura Golf Club, who took on the toughest position in local golf several years ago and has come through so far with flying colours. Personality of the Year - Brendan O'Brien who retired last month as SDGA President from 1998-2007 and deserves the thanks of all local golfers for his endeavours.
I hope you have enjoyed the 19th Hole this year. Good luck to everyone in golf. Have a Happy Christmas and a safe new year and always remember that ït's always nice to meet nice people" and that "memories live longer than dreams".
Contact me with with any golf information or opinions on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

19/12/2007

12th December 07

Summer Pennant Final at Wentworth
Merbein and Mildura Black will contest the final of the 2007 SDGA Summer Pennant final at Wentworth on Sunday. Merbein will go in as favourites after easily accounting for Red Cliffs at Coomealla last Sunday. Chris McGinty and Tyler Ver beek were too good for the previously unbeaten Tillers and Rod Poole and Aaron Blake made it a four one result. Roger Walder was going along ok against Gannon Bettess until he landed in the 10th bunker and discovered he had misplaced his sand iron earlier in the round. Coomealla can be a daunting place if you keep going into bunkers without the right implement to extract your ball! Underdogs Mildura Black just got over the line against their Gold opponents who have looked the goods from day one. Peter Dooley was the hero of the day for Black after recovering from well down to knock off Keith Williams. John Hardie and Wayne Anderson were the other winners for Black. This week I expect Merbein to continue their good form and take out the Summer Pennant comfortably.
Last Golf Show This Sunday
This Sunday the 725th and last edition of the Jack Abell Sunraysia Golf show will go to air on Easy Listening 1467am at 8am. I first began promoting local golf and golf in general back in 1992 and it has been an enjoyable and extremely interesting journey ever since. Highlights have included interviews with Peter Thomson, Bob Shearer , Peter Senior, Wayne Grady, Brett Ogle, Stuart Appleby, Aaron Baddeley, Ricky Ponting and a host of others. This week my final show guests will be Sunraysia's greatest ever golfer Greg Rhodes and perhaps our most significant golf administrator in the last 30 years, Trevor Carroll. I am sure I will miss not doing the show in the years ahead, but it is time to step aside and sleepin on Sunday mornings. After the Golf Show the 100th and last Coomealla Club Sunday Sports show will air at 9am and even though that show has only gone for two years it has been terrific to be able to talk to local sportsmen and women as well as people such as Ron Barassi, Malcolm Blight, Kevin Sheedy, James Hird, Tim Watson, Lindsay Gaze, David Hayes and Lee Freedman. It should be a real easy listening morning with a few laughs and a few memories, I hope you can join with me to celebrate my last day on local radio.
Australian Open Tomorrow
The 2007 MFS Australian Open will hit off at The Australian Golf Club tomorrow with Peter Lonard a warm favourite. Lonard won the Open when it was last played at the Australian and co holds the record (279) for the lowest winning total in the Open at that course with Jack Nicklaus. Any one of a dozen players could win the title this year with Geoff Ogilvy, Rod Pampling and Aaron Baddeley all good chances. My pick is Stuart Appleby who will be desperate to play well after a disappointing finish at the PGA on Friday where he missed the cut by seven shots. Appleby has won the Open before when it was played at The Grand Golf Club in Queensland. If Appleby doesn't play well then maybe it will be Rod Pampling's turn.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

5/12/07

Summer Pennant Finals
Coomealla Golf Club will host the 2007 SDGA Summer Pennant semi-finals on Sunday. In the first semi Mildura Gold tackle their sister team of Mildura Black with Gold being odds on to win. I think the Black team will cause a turn up with wins by Andrew Stewart, Darren Knight and John Hardie enough to get them over the line and into the final. Red Cliffs look home and hosed in the second semi after being the best team in the competition so far but I am tipping another upset. Merbein only need three wins to continue and the abilities of Chris McGinty, Roger Walder and Aaron Blake should enable Merbein to advance to the final at Wentworth on December 16. As usual summer pennant has been a great success this year introducing a number of new golfers to the best golf game of all, matchplay golf. Good luck to all competitors.
New Zealand Open-Nedbank Challenge
Last weekend two great golf events were played, won and watched by fanatical golf galleries in New Zealand and South Africa. Michael Hill is a proud New Zealand watchmaker who six years ago built his own private golf course near Queenstown in New Zealand's South Island. The population of Queenstown is less than 11,000 and a long way from the Island's biggest City, Christchurch. It is a popular destination for snow ski-ing in winter but golf traffic is miniscule by comparison. That could change soon. The choice of venue was surely a big risk for the promoters after enticing Tiger Woods with millions of reasons to compete in the event in Auckland several years ago. In golf there often is an incredible spirit of people joining together to make an event work, once again here, it came to the fore. The 2007 NZ Open was a huge success. Adelaide promoter and organiser Bob Tuohey did a marvellous job to put on such a world class event, just as he had done with so many events including the Ladies Masters at Royal Pines and the Jacob's Creek tournaments in Adelaide. England's Richard Finch was the winner of the golf tournament but Michael Hill, Bob Tuohey, the volunteers and people of Queenstown were the real winners and springboards the expectations and anticipation of the 2008 event at the same venue in next twelve months time. Sir Bob Charles who is the patron saint of all left handed golfers provided the highlight of the tournament by shooting 68 in the second round beating his age by three shots. In South Africa the 27th Nedbank challenge was won by one of it's own in Trevor Immelman. Immelman has grown up watching the Nedbank challenge which was the absolute Mecca golf tournament for him. His dad is the head man who runs South African golf so it certainly was a proud day for him. The winner took home US $1,200000 which is unbelievable whilst runner up Justin Rose collected US $600,000. The South Africans regard this tournament as their number one sporting event and to have a South African win it again well and truly put the cream on the cake.
Australian PGA
The best field of the year in Australia will tee it up at Coolum tomorrow for the Australian PGA Championship. Adam Scott and South Africa's Rory Sabbatini (2nd 2007 US Masters) will fly in fresh from competing in the Nedbank Challenge. This is the PGA's 6th year at Coolum which has showcased some terrific finishes. I expect Craig Parry to win from John Senden and Stuart Appleby with NSW Paul Marantz a roughie at good odds for a top five finish.
Contact me with your golfing information or news on Fax 50247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

28 November 2007

Red Cliffs Favourites in Summer Pennant
Red Cliffs recorded an emphatic five nil victory over Wentworth at Mildura on Sunday in round two of 2007 Summer Pennant. Four players have won both matches played so far for the "Cliffs" including Shannon Tiller, Graham Tiller, Tim Walker and Declan Ganz. Other players to win both matches include Les Williams and Rhett Smythe (Mildura Gold) John Hardie (Mildura Black) Jake Winslow (Riverside) and Aaron Blake (Merbein). The third and last round will be contested at Riverside on Sunday and the finals the following week at Wentworth. The semi-finals will possibly be between Red Cliffs versus Merbein and Mildura Gold versus Mildura Black but Coomealla and Wentworth could still sneak in with victories this week. The two semi-final winners will then meet in the afternoon to decide the 2007 SDGA Summer Pennant.
Sunraysia's Golf Coaches
For many years Sunraysia had only one golf professional in Bruce Milgate at Mildura Golf Club, then Steve Darmody arrived at Coomealla giving local golfers a choice. Currently there are four men teaching golf in the district including Mike Swan, (Mildura) Brad Pitt, (Coomealla) Mark Bowd (Sunraysia Golf Range) and Steele Denman at Sunraysia Golf Factory. All four have a good knowledge of the golf swing and can assist and develop the game's of golfers at all levels. There are so many things that can determine whether you hit the ball well or poorly and these guys have been trained to identify and fix swing faults. Since Sunraysia Golf Factory installed it's new "Golf Simulator" a lot of local golfers have been taking advantage of having their swings checked and shots measured. Today a "Nearest the Pin" competition on one
of the simulator's par 3's begins which will be geat fun. The men's tee is 151 yards whilst the ladies only have to hit it 112 yards. Over $2000 in prizes are up for grabs between now and Christmas so why not have a go? Weekly winners will be announced in the 19th hole.
Australian Masters
The last round of the Australian Masters at Huntingdale on Sunday was compelling viewing for anyone remotely interested in golf. The drama of the last nine holes where the lead se sawed between five players was really terrific. The good news was that an Aussie won but the whole event was first class. When channel Seven went to the news I luckily turned on the radio and listened to the last two play off holes live on ABC radio. Aaron Baddeley deserved his win whilst Sweden's Daniel Chopra was unlucky to lose, but that's golf. Non golfing people struggle to understand why golf is so much harder to master than any other game but how many other games deliver that last hole pressure? Thousands of people only metres away and five minutes between shots to think about what shot to play and how to play it, and the consequences of that shot. In other sports against other players such as football, cricket, tennis and a multitude of other sports what you do is quite often dependent or reactionary to what your opponent does. In golf you have lots of time to talk yourself out of it or overcome any self doubts and nail it. This week the New Zealand Open will be played in Queenstown and the following week it is back to Coolum in Queensland for the Australian PGA with Geoff Ogilvy and Adam Scott. The following week the 2007Australian Open will be played at the Australian Golf Club in Sydney.
World Cup in China
Scotland overcame the US in a three hole sudden death playoff to win the 2007 World Cup on Sunday. Colin Montgomerie and Mark Warren proved too good for Boo Weekly and Heath Slocum at the Mission Hills golf complex which has ten courses. The World Cup is a two player teams event where a best ball (4Ball Better Ball) format and alternate (2 man ambrose) shot format is used during the four rounds (72 holes). Australia's Nick O'Hern and Nathan Green were well down the list at 9 under par leaving them 16 shots behind.
Contact me with your golfing information on Fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

21 November 2007

Summer Pennant 2007
The kids were hot in the first round of summer pennant at Red Cliffs on Sunday. Forty players lined up in eight teams of five with six juniors taking part. Five juniors were amongst the twenty winning players on the day including: Chris McGinty and Tyler Ver beek representing Merbein, Jake Winslow from Riverside and Declan Ganz and Tim Walker for Red Cliffs who defeated fellow junior Jade Hall-Kelly of Riverside. Summer pennant is a great grounding arena for matchplay pennant and it's obvious that there are still lots of golfers keen to represent their clubs. Next week round two will be at Mildura giving the two Mildura teams an advantage against Merbein and Riverside. It is great to see Ouyen fronting up once again but disappointing that Robinvale cannot raise any interest in pennant at any level.
Golf Simulator in Mildura
The very latest in golf technology was introduced in Mildura's City Heart at Sunraysia Golf Factory on Monday. Most of Australia's leading golf teachers have been incorporating the "Golf Achiever" laser technology combined with video analysis software in their teaching and club fitting. This golf simulator provides unparalleled accuracy and precision in the measurement of club head speed, ball flight and launch angle of the club. All of this information is magnified on a giant movie screen for the golfer to see. Lessons are videoed and a copy is burnt onto a DVD for the golfer to play back at home. Every time a lesson is done, that information is stored in the computer, so that a player's swing and lesson history can be referred to at any time. This makes it much easier for the student to understand and absorb what the golf teacher is explaining and see for themselves what he/she is doing in their swing. The golf simulator will also be used to play actual games of golf on "real" golf holes. Either nine or eighteen hole games can be played and Sunraysia Golf Factory will begin a "nearest the pin" and "long drive" competition next Monday with lucrative prizes on offer. With a long hot summer just beginning, a lesson with Steele Denman or a game of golf in air conditioned comfort provides an attractive option for Sunraysia's estimated four thousand golf hungry club and social golfers.
29th Australian Masters at Huntingdale
The inaugural Australian Masters was played at Huntingdale in 1979 and was won by New Zealander Barry Vivian with a score of one over par 289. Vivian was invited and duly came to Mildura 23 years later and won the Riverside Senior Pro-Am, saying at the time "I didn't realize at the time or even consider how big an event the Aussie Masters would become". Six times Greg Norman won the tournament that virtually copied all facets of the US Masters at Augusta. Norman carried the event and attracted some of the world's best to compete against him during a twenty year assault including, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods (8th in 1997), Nick Faldo, Bernhardt Langer, John Daly, Mark O'Meara, Colin Montgomerie and Sergio Garcia. During the late 80's and early 90's Sunraysia Golf Tours took a bus load down to the Masters and in 1992 saw Craig Parry win it for the first time. Last year Englishman Justin Rose won, which his first big tournament win and set him on the path to a fantastic year in the US and a number one finish on the European Order of Merit (money list). The tournament where the "Tradition Continues" will be telecast on Prime television and whilst Aaron Baddeley is the favourite I reckon left hander and 2004 winner Richard Green is a good bet whilst Sweden's Daniel Chopra represents good odds for a top five placing.
Contact me with your golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

14 November 2007

Rhodes Triumph's at Coomealla
Greg Rhodes won the 2007 Coomealla Club Championship on Sunday. This result was thought to be inevitable and nothing different to what most people expected at any stage during the tournament. Most people at the same time though, were hoping that Cameron Stewart could maintain his first round form when he shot a brilliant 69 and took the challenge right up to Rhodes. On Saturday Stewart slipped, just a little bit, with a 76. Rhodes had started the day three shots behind and he, more than anyone, knows that round three of a championship is, well, like the third quarter in a football match. A quick 68 soon signalled his intentions giving him a five shot lead going in to the last round. Stewart once again found himself in familiar territory on Sunday but he was determined to put up a good fight. After the two players coming equal third (17 shots behind) both withdrew in the morning it left Rhodes and Stewart to virtually go head to head. Rhodes began his round with a birdie three and then an eagle three which is tough to match. Stewart, to his credit wasn't just watching on as he began birdie, birdie and then lipped out for birdie at the third. In the remaining 15 holes Rhodes was one under par finishing with a 69 while Stewart played steadily for a 73, giving Rhodes a comfortable nine shot victory. In many respects this tournament was no different to the hundred or so tournaments that Rhodes has won in the past but there were a couple of interesting things that happened. In the second round Greg Rhodes did something that we have all done before, he four putted. Two holes later he took three shots to extricate his ball from a greenside bunker on his way to a 41 for nine holes. Surely those two holes gives us all hope! On Sunday his mother and one of his sisters (Beth) came out to watch him play golf. For the very first time. I feel certain that he was delighted to see them there. As for Cameron Stewart, his time will come, particularly if he continues to play such good golf. You know, his score of seven over par for 72 holes would have won the Coomealla Club championship at least 15 times in the last 20 years but that would be of no consolation to him. In the junior title little Tyler Ver-Beek played great golf at the weekend to win by four strokes from Ryan Laird. For the first time in quite a while we have some top quality juniors emerging with Ver Beek, Laird, Chris McGinty, Ryan Haynes, Regan Cavallaro, Jade Hall Kelly and a couple more not far behind them coming through. In B grade Warrick Hamilton finally won, after leading this division after 54 holes in both 2005-06 with no luck. In C grade Aaron Blake won three years after he joined the Sunraysia Social Golf Club where le learned the ropes, so to speak. He is on the way to better golf. Coomealla had their best championship ever averaging 110 player a day over the four days of the championship which speaks for itself. Well done.
Lucky Phil wins in Shanghai
Phil Mickleson won the HSBC Champions tournament in Shanghai in China on Sunday after leading by five shots and then nearly throwing it all away. In the final round he incurred no less than six penalty strokes. With three holes to play Englishman Ross Fisher pulled back seven shots to lead Mickelson by two but a visit to the water finishing in double bogey on 18 looked to have cooked his goose. Mickelson then hit his ball in the water on 18 but the golfing gods smiled on him and he made bogey to go into a playoff against Fisher and Lee Westwood who had come from nine strokes behind. What a shemozzle! All three putted for birdie on the first playoff hole, all missing. Mickelson then sealed the deal with a birdie on the next hole. It is the first tournament win for Mickelson outside the US in 14 years. Last year Yang Yong-eun knocked off Tiger Woods to take the title but this year he was disqualified for signing an incorrect scorecard. Even though his third round score of 70 was correct he had inadvertently signed for a 4 instead of a 5 and then a 3 instead of a 2 on another hole. Hard to believe that this could still happen at that level. Signing for a higher score is ok, except you have to accept the higher score but signing for a lower score means goodbye.
Contact me with your golfing information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

31 Oct 2007

Lawn greener at Red Cliffs
Phillip Lawn 72-73-79-73 is the 2007 Red Cliffs Golf Club champion after two amazing rounds of golf at the weekend and perhaps owes the runner up Justin McPhee 76-72-75-76 a debt of gratitude in the process. Lawn led after rounds one and two but fell one shot behind on Saturday night. On the 16th hole he had carved his second shot left into the mulga, after searching for five minutes, he not only abandoned his ball but his whole championship as well, deciding to DNF. Former multiple club champion and current Country Week captain Justin McPhee then convinced Lawn to trudge back to the tee some 250 metres and play the hole again. At day's end, Lawn had forfeited his three shot lead but still lay only one shot behind McPhee. Third placegetter and defending champion Anthony O'Brien 78-72-75-75 was on a roll until this stage of proceedings at two under par for the day but became totally distracted. O'Brien then dropped five shots in the last three holes but was still only two off the lead. There was much discussion in the club house on Saturday night about the happenings on 16 but most were pleased that all parties were still in tact and commended McPhee's for his sportsmanship. He could quite easily have said "whatever" and worried about his own game which would have eliminated his closest rival. But no-one wants to win that way. Most people at the club though, thought that Sunday would be a two horse race between traditional rivals McPhee and O'Brien as Lawn had never been seen in their class. Golfing wise. Indeed, it is probably fair to say that he has never seriously been considered for a spot in our Country Week team, whereas the other two are regarded as two of our district's best five players. So on Sunday, off they go and it was neck and neck right up until the final hole. Lawn was two shots in front after 15 holes but McPhee eagled the 16th and they went to the 17th locked together, with O'Brien one shot back. What a nail biter. The smart money surely must be on the favourites in this situation. But not this time. The underdog kept his nerve and parred the last two holes as his opponents both made bogeys. A 73 under those circumstances is something he and his family can be very proud of. I have known Phillip Lawn for more than half of his life and have watched his progress from when he was a little boy going to golf with his dad Robert, who was club captain at Red Cliffs for several years. He is now a multiple club champion at Red Cliffs and as such deserves to be recognised and awarded due credit for an outstanding performance. Congratulations Phil.
Laird learns the hard way
The 9th annual Rivertowns Classic was played at Loxton, Wentworth and Mildura Golf Club's last week with around 90 players playing at least two of the rounds. The best men's score of the tournament could not be recognised due to a non signing of the third round scorecard. It is always sad to see someone lose out this way but unfortunately it has been happening for over 100 years. Ryan Laird who is only 13 years old recorded rounds of 34-37-39 points but in his excitement forgot to sign his score card at Mildura after a great closing score of 39 stableford points on Sunday. Ryan's mother Sue won the ladies A grade section with rounds of 36-36-41 points and was naturally devastated. Other winners were Marlene Wall in ladies B grade with 38-37-34, Peter Harman 35-39-34 men's A grade, Fred Stewart 39-36-37 men's B grade and Les McGlashan 36-39-35 in men's C grade. Perhaps the biggest scorecard fopar of all time occurred in the 1968 US Masters at Augusta, when Robert DiVinzenzo mistakenly signed for a 4 on the 17th instead of a 3 which then put him into a playoff with Bob Goalby. Goalby who in reality, had hit one shot more in the last round then duly got up and won the playoff leaving DiVinzenzo to lament on what should have been. You know, it is never over until it is over, or in golf's case, until the paperwork is signed,sealed and delivered.
20th Athen's Open
This Sunday it is Mildura Golf Club's turn to host the 20th staging of the Athen's Open. This is an event that attracts Greek golfers to the district, actually, not just Greeks, but friends of Greeks and friends of friends of Greeks. Basically if you can skoll ouzo and stand to attention during the raising of the Greek flag at the opening ceremony, then you are in. The event rotates around the district's golf courses and whilst it began and continues to be more of a social occasion, the golf is serious. The late Peter Manolas was a staunch supporter of the event and won the champion golfer title twice. Since Peter's passing a perpetual trophy is awarded in his honour each year for the best scratch score.
SDGA Moving Forward
The annual Captains and Presidents dinner was held at Mildura Golf Club on Monday night and many of the issues facing local golf were discussed. Naturally water, or the lack of it was an agenda item but there are lots of other hurdles facing our local clubs. One positive item discussed is that Broken Hill have made advances to become a member club of the VGA and subsequently the SDGA. This could be rubber stamped as soon as January. Inclusion in our pennant season could occur as soon as 2008 but if not certainly 2009. The SAGA are digging in trying to persuade Broken Hill to remain a South Australian member club but the SDGA looks a more attractive option for them and us. Next month the SDGA AGM will be held and the new committee will decide whether events such as the District Matchplay will continue. It would be a shame if it didn't but unless it is revamped then it is better to go into recess as the running of it has been nothing short of farcical in recent years. One imitative that I do applaud and endorse is the decision to honour out going SDGA President Brendan O'Brien by awarding the best performed player at Country Week each year with the Brendan O'Brien shield. Ash Whitehouse will be the first recipient for his 2007 performances. O'Brien has been involved in Country Week for 29 years as a player,Captain and selector and fully deserves that continued recognition. Both he and district secretary Ken Cameron have decided to step down next month so a new executive will need to be sourced. Thanks to both men for their contribution to Sunraysia golf, particularly O'Brien who has been president for 10 years.
Contact me with your golf information on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au
Good golfing to all.

24 Oct 2007

Steve Wilmann is the 2007 Riverside Golf Club Champion after rounds of 74-76-74-75-299. Wilmann has been a talented golfer for over ten years and first won the club championship in 1999. It has been a long time between drinks but this win could ignite a renewed desire to become one of the districts top players. Wilmann certainly has the talent but has tended to enjoy his golf and the social side of being at a golf club. Nothing wrong with that, but, anyone who can hit a golf ball as well as he can could achieve consistently better results. I for one hope that this win in the club championship will provide the catalyst for his future golfing endeavours. Dave Woolcock was runner up after rounds of 80-80-72-80-312. Woolcock who plays off a 10 handicap played well below his handicap in each round with an aggregate of 16 shots under his mark. Naturally he won the A grade handicap section quite comfortably. Other winners included John Marlais in B grade 80-75-80-82 and Chris McGinty 80-80-84-75 in the junior section.

Past Red Cliffs Golf Club champion Philip Lawn 72-73 is the half way leader after the first two rounds at the weekend. Lawn has lobbed back at Red Cliffs after stints at Riverside and Coomealla. One over par is outstanding golf at any time but more particularly in a club championship. On Sunday the condition were quite hot and windy which made low scoring very difficult. Lawn, Justin McPhee and Anthony O'Brien all played in the morning which was reflected in their scoring. Even so, conditions were still much tougher than Saturday making McPhee's round of 72 following a 76 all the more impressive. Only O'Brien 78-73 looks capable of tossing Lawn or McPhee who are destined to lock horns on Saturday and Sunday. Baden Stone after a 77 on Saturday looks to have the junior championship to himself, even after Sunday's 85 which he recorded in the afternoon.

Mark Hensby continued the Aussie last round falters in the US PGA Tour's Fry's Electronics Open in Scottsdale Arizona on Sunday. Hensby led into the last round only to lose by one shot to Canadian left hander Mike Weir. Mind you, Hensby is pretty happy with the $540,000 cheque as it lifts him from 151 to 99th on the US money list assuring him of another year on the tour in 2008. If he had of stayed outside the top 125 he would have been delisted. On top of that he had forgotten to enter the Q-School at years end where players get another chance to qualify for the US Tour. Hensby was 15th on the money list in 2005 and played in the Presidents Cup but injuries and poor form had seen his world ranking drop to 345.

Cheating in any sport is something that everyone despises. Of course cheating can occur in many ways. The latest and most obvious way is by taking performance enhancing drugs. Golf is a sport where cheating is rarely mentioned. Golfers can be disqualified for many misdemeanours but the majority of them are unintentional. Forgetting to sign your scorecard or forgetting to record your club handicap on your card are two ways you can be disqualified that are regarded by many as silly rules. Neither though are regarded as cheating. Taking a wrong drop or moving your ball accidentally and not replacing it in it's original position can also attract penalties. Again though, usually all of these mistakes are generally unintentional. Lately I have been disappointed to hear more and more people from a cross section of local golf clubs complaining about people cheating. Not counting correctly. To be called a cheat at golf is the worst slur any golfer can suffer because it is just totally unacceptable. Unfortunately some new golfers don't take the rules as seriously as they should and have trouble adapting to the code of club competition after having played only "social golf" previously. Ok, that is something that usually sorts itself out over time but deliberately cheating is another matter. Sometimes youngsters starting out try to impress their friends and family and get caught up in their and others expectations. In other cases older members have trouble counting due to memory lapses which is perhaps understandable but still not fair on others who count properly. Sometimes you hear of a new golfer who is winning week after week but whose handicap is decreasing and members from that club will unfairly and sometimes jealously suggest that "maybe he can't count". At times it can be true but in most instances it is not and the player is unduly suspected even though he is completely innocent of anything except improvement. The answer then is that if anyone suspects that someone is miscounting then they should inform the club captain who will then arrange for himself or someone from the committee to play with that person. Golf is the absolute last sport where the player himself is usually the first person to call a penalty on himself and not try and get away with an indiscretion, as in almost all other sports. If ever we lose that fundamental principle of honesty, then golf as we know it will never be the same and that would be a terrible shame.

Contact me with your golf information or opinion on fax 50 247243 or Email golf@sunraysiagolftours.com.au

Good golfing to all.