Queenstown Golf Club Newsletter – Saturday 31 May 2025 Edition
Casual Reads from Your Favourite Fairways
Dear Members,
Hold onto your visors! Saturday dished up a wild one – gale-force winds whipped across the course, turning club selection into a guessing game and elevating every good shot to something heroic. But through the chaos, our golfers rose to the occasion. And with the King’s Birthday Weekend upon us, it was only fitting that our royalty reigned supreme out there.
Men’s Competition Highlights
Top of the pops:
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Rex Duncan topped the board with a stellar 38 Stableford points, showing that steady wins the (windy) race.
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Bill Davidson, James Sowerby, and Nigel Soper all followed close behind with 36, keeping the pressure on.
Moment of the Day:
It’s not often the clubhouse goes quiet, but when Athol Stephens’ tee shot on the par-3 nearly dropped for a hole-in-one, hearts stopped. The ball kissed the edge of the cup and—agonisingly—refused to fall. On the lip. A literal blink from glory. Still, it earned him Nearest the Pin and the biggest roar of the day. Athol, you’ve got one hand on that elusive prize—we reckon it’s only a matter of time.
His expression says it all—pure disbelief and a grin that only someone who’s both thrilled and slightly heartbroken could wear. While the ace remains elusive, Athol did walk away with Nearest the Pin honours and the admiration of everyone who witnessed it. That’s one for the memory bank!
Twos Jackpot:
Eight sharp shooters claimed twos, including Captain Sowerby, who turned heads with an eagle two on the 14th—driving the green and draining an 8-footer like it was nothing. That shot alone was worth braving the wind for.
Birdies & Net Eagles:
Wind or no wind, the course surrendered its fair share of birdies and net eagles. From Michael Wong on 16 to Wayne Paul with a tidy brace on 2 and 10, the scoring highlights rolled in thick and fast.
Special Prizes:
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Longest Putt: Kris Brewin snatched the honours here with a bomb that found the bottom of the cup, navigating the day’s tough greens like a seasoned pro.
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Nearest the Pin: A tie for laser-like accuracy – Terry Doherty dropped it close, but it was Athol Stephens who stole the show with his almost-ace that had the whole green buzzing.
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Birdies Draw: Congrats to Michael Wong, walking away with a well-earned bonus.
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Net Eagles Draw: Jack Pot (yes, really!) lived up to his name and claimed the prize this round on hole 13.
We also had a Random Card Draw go to Peter Adam, proving once again that sometimes luck is part of the game.
Ladies’ Competition – Grit, Grace, and Great Golf
While the wind did its best to ruffle feathers (and hairdos), our ladies proved once again they’re made of stern stuff. Navigating gusty conditions with cool heads and sharp swings, it was a tight contest from start to finish.
Carolyn McIsaac came out on top with a steady 36 points, keeping her composure across all 18 holes and showing what consistency can do on a tough day. Just behind, Judith Mitchell and Julie Grant both turned in tidy rounds with 33 points apiece—solid scoring when every shot felt like it needed a weather report.
Rounding out the prize winners was Anne Hailes, whose 32 points edged out a competitive field and demonstrated that perseverance and good course management go a long way when the breeze is howling off the lake.
Special Prizes – That Extra Sparkle:
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Longest Putt: Sharron Payne judged the line and pace beautifully to drop one in—a true touch of class.
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Nearest the Pin: Jeri Elliot kept it tidy and tight into the wind, landing her tee shot close to secure the prize.
Keep swinging strong, ladies—you continue to set the bar high!
King’s Birthday – A Royal Performance
As we toast the long weekend, it’s fair to say our own royals were out in force. From captain’s eagles to almost-holes-in-one, this competition had the kind of moments that make the game magic.
Café Open Daily – Family Friendly, Golf Optional
Whether you're celebrating a personal best or just in it for the scones, our café is open every day. Bring your family and friends, kick back with the views, and enjoy a bit of Queenstown charm. You don't have to swing a club to soak in the good vibes.
Remember it's Sunday Roast tomorrow, check in with the cafe team early doors to see if there are any remaining spots.
That’s a wrap from us—until next time, keep it straight, swing smooth, and may the wind be slightly less rude next Saturday.
Cheers,
Queenstown Pro Shop