The Kelvin Chronicle | Club Update
Where’s Kelly?
Kelly returns tomorrow from her five day golfing tour of Central Otago competitions.
If you have ever wondered what 332 shots looks like in storytelling form, tune into our Facebook Live session at 11am tomorrow where Kelly will take us through every moment. Expect updates on the prize tables, raffle results , near misses, and the occasional “if only”.
Welcome back Smiley. We look forward to the full debrief.
Interclub Season Underway
Representative golf is now in full swing across the region and it has been a strong and competitive start for Queenstown.
The Ladies Pennants side heads to Millbrook tomorrow to take on The Hills.
Senior A hosted Wanaka and delivered a 4–2 win on home soil, a satisfying result after the narrow loss away two weeks ago.
Senior B shared the points in a tight 2–2 draw with Cromwell, while the Intermediate side fell just short against Arrowtown, going down 2.5 to 1.5.
The Men’s Interclub season opened at Alexandra with the team finishing fifth, 12 shots behind early leaders Lake Hawea. A solid platform to build from.
Across all grades there is a clear sense of momentum as the season gets underway.
Central Otago Autumn Classic
We were delighted to host 100 golfers on Wednesday as part of this year’s Central Otago Autumn Classic.
Players travelled from across the region, around New Zealand, and a few from Australia, all greeted by a characteristically breezy Queenstown day. As always, the post round hospitality ensured spirits remained high.
A sincere thank you to Benn Ashford of Front 9 Golf for the work behind the scenes in bringing the event together.
Congratulations to David Grant who finished 12th in Division 1, recording his best round right here at home.
Sustainability in Action
Our sustainability journey continues to gain recognition.
Destination Queenstown has recently shared our story (read here), highlighting the club’s solar installation and broader environmental initiatives. It is pleasing to see the club recognised as part of a wider movement towards more sustainable operations in our region.
As part of Electrify Queenstown, running from 17 to 19 May, we will host a visiting bike tour group, offering a practical look at how a golf club can play its part.
Blind Shot Camera Trial
The blind shot camera trial is already seeing strong use and positive feedback.
The next phase will see the cameras relocated to cover the approach over the hill to the 12th green, along with the landing area on the 6th fairway. A single QR code will provide access to both views.
If you have used the system, please take a moment to complete the short anonymous survey. It takes less than 30 seconds and will help guide the next steps.
Irrigation Project Update
The irrigation project is now just six weeks away.
The Players Committee will share further detail next week on how play will be managed during the 12 week construction period.
Importantly, the new nine hole layout has now been formally rated by Golf New Zealand for both nine and eighteen hole handicap purposes. This provides certainty for members during the construction phase.
A Small Practical Note
With fuel prices remaining high, it is worth considering carpooling with your regular playing partners. A simple step that benefits both the pocket and the environment.
Club Championships
Now things are starting to heat up.
In the Men’s Senior grade, Sam Lee is through to the final and will face either James Sowerby or Tom James, who are ready to sock it out in their semi.
Intermediate A sees Adam Dawson take on Jake Halliday, while Chris Heald goes head to head with Claude Hoopes.
Intermediate B has David Clearwater lining up against Darren Hill, while Reuben Williams Warren will need to keep a close eye on the number skills of Peter Sim.
In the Men’s Junior grade, Mike Gain will be looking to gain the advantage and out gun Andrew Gunn, while Peter Waaka meets Alan Gaunt.
Over in the Ladies Silver, Ruby Lee meets Suzanne Vidak, and Kerry Connor will be trying to fly one over Julie Grant.
In Bronze 1, Deb Clearwater takes on two time champion Barbara Fraser.
And in Bronze 2 and 3, Robyn Bicheno will meet the winner of the final semi between Anne Hailes and Julianne Bowman.
Plenty of golf still to be played, and no shortage of storylines.
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