Masterly showing by men and women

OPINION: Well, the masters men's and women's teams showed they are very competitive nationally, with both having great performances last week, writes Anthony Barkley in this week's Golf Pro.

The women's team lead by Robyn Boniface cleaned up at Coringa and the masters team was fifth at the interprovincial at Springfield. Just shows we have some class players in what I suppose we could call the older bracket. Am I allowed to say that?

But it's very true. Robyn Boniface would still hold her own against any young player in New Zealand, Robyn Pullar is currently Southland No1 and has a fantastic work ethic for her practice. Something some of the younger ones could try to emulate. In the masters men we have Peter Brinsdon, Gary Radka and Paul Adams, who would still push for spots in the men's team. The rest of the women's and masters men's team are also solid players.

So when you think of the performances that Southland teams have achieved in the past couple of years, bar this year's glitch at the women's interprovincial, it's very positive. Let's hope the men's team in the upcoming Interprovincial can push for an even better result.

Great to see Lora Hosking playing so well at the Stead Cup. A great young talent who gave Robyn Pullar a run for her money. Shame she can't play for Southland. Robyn Boniface went on to win the final against Pullar.

This Sunday is, of course, the Junior Tiger event at Queens Park. Fingers crossed for some great weather for this hugely popular event that has been staged throughout New Zealand. It's at the Queens Park Golf Club and caters for those who have played who can compete in a nine-hole competition where the best score wins, no matter if handicapped of not. There are two age divisions, 0-11 and 12-14.

One girl and boy from each division goes on to play in the New Zealand final.

Foy any kids wanting to try the game, we also have many challenges going on the day. Putting comps, chuck `n' putt, pitch into the pool, knock the blocks, and we are trying a long-drive challenge to see how far they can hit it. There are loads of things to do for players and non-players. All kids need to have a caregiver with them. Check out the website: juniortiger.co.nz

Remember, all can win a family trip to Disneyland.

Bring on the good weather.

» Anthony Barkley is a New Zealand PGA qualified golf coach based at the Invercargill Golf Club at Otatara.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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