NEWS

Spectators and volunteers were treated to an engaging golfing experience on day one of the NZPGA Championship. With golfing communities at the forefront of PGA NZs approach to the tournament, the excitement and chatter added to the real community spirit that this tournament is delivering.

With the Te Puke Club volunteer’s army getting themselves ready to walk the course with the players, the innovation and unique NZPGA Championship for 2021 got underway Thursday morning.

The players in form produced the display they have in the weeks leading in with local course favourite Josh Geary having a late charge to complete round one at the top of the leader board on 7 under 65.

Today’s NZPGA Championship Pro Am created the perfect setting to open proceedings for the 2021 edition of the event at the Te Puke Golf Club. On an immaculately manicured course, sports stars, PGA Professionals and local amatuers enjoyed playing on a classic sunny day in the Bay of Plenty.

Some of the day’s dream match ups included the likes of Ryan Fox and All Black Damien Mackenzie, Luke Brown and Black Cap Neil Wagner and Josh Geary with Ben Matalino, who took out 1^st Prize, setting the scene for the innovative championship for the rest of the week.

Played over two days at the stunning Sherwood Park Golf Club Luke shot a 36 hole total of 11under par to win by one shot over Harry Bateman and by two shots over third place finishers Dongwoo Kang, Pieter Zwart and Kerry Mountcastle.

The first round was affected by rain and blustery conditions which made scoring tough and with more settled conditions the second day Toomey lit the course up with a 9 under par 63 win and take out the Peter Roberts memorial trophy.

A special thank you to Platinum homes, DVS and the large amount of partners that got behind the event and wonderful community at the Sherwood park golf club who staged a fantastic event.