New Zealand Open rated possibly the best
Last month's New Zealand Open could have been it’s best yet, according to tournament chairman John Hart.
“The event has possibly been our best given all the aspects of the tournament that met or exceeded our expectations,” Hart said.
Similar sentiments were expressed by tournament director Michael Glading, who is primarily responsible for the quality of the field assembled.
“Overall the tournament has been very successful given the really positive feedback from both the professionals and amateurs,’’ Glading said.
``When we see players from so many countries such as Thailand, Korea, Japan, Australia and New Zealand on the leaderboard, it says we have succeeded in making this tournament more of a Pan- Asian event through our partnerships with the Japan and Asian Tours.”
From my first hand observations I have to agree that this tournament ticked all the boxes in so many ways.
The Queenstown environment is a major contributor as Glading added: “That is what the Queenstown region does. It is so beautiful people want to come back and we are so fortunate to have two golf courses (Millbrook and The Hills) that are in the best condition I have ever seen them.''
Chan Kim, from the United States, one of the bigger names who finished a solid seventh, was a two-year project for Glading before agreeing to come. He said simply “Don’t worry man. I’ll be back.”
The new innovations such as the All Abilities New Zealand Open, the free entry and the appearance of Sweden’s major championship winner Pernilla Lindberg as an ambassador playing with the men were all winners.
The ambassadors are an important component as they add mana and colour to the event. One of the regulars Ian Botham is always great to listen to when he features on the Sky TV coverage.
Being able to see Lindberg and Beauden Barrett not only enjoying but playing some great shots along with the gallery following them was a highlight. Lindberg’s six birdies in the second round at The Hills revealed her true ability.
Lindberg so enjoyed the experience that she said she would love to return if her schedule allowed it and Glading said she had an open invitation to do so. Her personality and warmth with all those she interacted with whether fans or volunteers was most endearing.
As we look ahead there will be no resting on their laurels for Hart, Glading and their colleagues. The completion of nine new holes at Millbrook and the possibility of them becoming part of the championship course next year will add some decisions to ponder.
Greg Turner of Turner/Macpherson Design said it will not be difficult to integrate the extra Millbrook nine while Glading points out that the various logistics and course arrangements required may mean it is still a future consideration.
Glading and Hart said the long term goal is still to have an event played on three courses. No doubt that will be a future story.
James Anstiss of Queenstown at the New Zealand Open. Photo credit: Neville Idour.
Pernilla Lindberg from Sweden at the New Zealand
Open. Lindberg was making a guest appearance and although she did not make the
cut, she finished with a creditable one over par at The Hills course