Blenheim retain Leatai Shield

Blenheim showed who was boss on their own course on Saturday (Dec 7) by comprehensively outplaying us to retain the Leatai Shield.

We made the trip over the Whangamoa Hill confident that we had a team capable of bringing home the trophy after a disappointing defeat at Waahi Taakaro last year, but our hosts quickly dispelled those hopes with some great golf in hot conditions.

Their team's impressive net average of 70.57 - just a tick over par for the Pollard Park course - easily eclipsed our 74.06 score.

Eight of the Blenheim team played under their handicaps, most notably club secretary Jane Ingram who shot a incredible net 59 playing off a 25 handicap, while just two of our team of 16 did likewise.

Grant Fergusson was the best of the Waahi Taakaro players with an excellent net 65. Peter Watson was the only one to shoot under 80 off the stick, posting a 77 for a net 69.

Peter Van Den Bogaardt, Ali Mawby and Gareth Edwards all did their part with 70 apiece, while Craig Barron and Neil McLaren contributed with 71 apiece. However, many of our lower handicapped golfers couldn't get to grips with the tight and tree-lined course which put a premium on hitting it straight rather than long.

Our thanks go to Blenheim for their hospitality and camaraderie.