Golf: New Zealand’s best young golfers tee off in Taranaki

Taranaki Golf 

New Zealand’s top young golfers are gearing up for a thrilling competition as the NZ Secondary Schools Championship Final tees off this Sunday at Manukorihi Golf Club.

Twenty-one teams from across the nation will vie for the prestigious title, showcasing the best of the country’s young golfing talent.

Despite recent rain, the dedicated club volunteers and Course Superintendent Ryan Blackbourn have ensured the course is in excellent condition.

Club President Richard Crowe expressed enthusiasm for the event, these skilled scratch and single figured golfers will be a spectacle for locals to watch and support.

Francis Douglas Memorial College clinched the regional qualifier by a narrow margin, edging out New Plymouth Boys High School, who have secured one of the three wild card spots. Francis Douglas will be represented by Jack Hopkins (pictured), Oliver Winstanley, and Calum Lewis. Local players are well-prepared, having participated in the Taranaki and Wellington Age Group Championships during the school holidays and recent representative trials, says Taranaki Golf’s Participation Officer, Lucinda Searle.

“The boys are excited for the event and are thrilled to be playing at home in front of their supporters,” she adds.

New Plymouth Boys High School will field a strong team with Taranaki and Manawatu Age Group Champion Jackson Moorhead, alongside Jamie Anderson and Alex Brooke. The team is eager to add another title to their collection after their earlier Super 8 victory and Andersons individual title this year.

The first tee times are set for noon on Sunday, and spectators are encouraged to come out and witness some high-calibre golf action.