Golf champions crowned

ntense competition highlighted the past month for the 18 hole women of Ōmokoroa Golf Club with their annual Matchplay Championships. Thirty-five women, the largest number of participants for many years, took part in their four respective handicap groupings to find the eventual champions.

Anya Apanui, the Club’s latest protégé at just 12 years of age, took out the top honours in winning the Silver or Senior Division. Playing the 36 holes accompanied by her father Richard as caddie, Anya displayed all of her incredible talents in defeating Sue Thomson, a more experienced and seasoned player. Anya’s ability to chip and putt with deadly accuracy alongside her fearless determination and calm disposition were the features of her game. Jessie Savage, the Club’s most senior player, took great delight in presenting the trophy she had won many times to the youngest recipient ever.

The Bronze One division was a most hotly contested grouping, and much playful bantering and a bit of good-humoured sledging occurred as friends were pitted against friends. The eventual winner was Chrissy Anderson, a stalwart of the Saturday morning women. Jenny Shirley was a formidable runner up ensuring all 36 holes were required for Chrissy to take the honours.

Bronze Two and Bronze Three divisions were played over 18 holes, and again the championship was highly contested. Martina Keir took Diana Price to the 20th hole for Diana to be the eventual winner of Bronze 2. Janice Murray also was challenged to be champion as Mary Findlay ensured 19 holes had to be played for Janice to be crowned winner of Bronze 3.

The Silver and Bronze One winners now progress to compete in the Bay of Plenty 36 hole Champion of Champions competition at Taupō Centennial Golf Course in November. The Club wishes Anya and Chrissy all the best in their

quest to be champions of the Bay.