Golf: Drought broken for Rotorua at Sec Schools Nationals

Golf NZ

For the first time in almost 20 years, Rotorua Boys' High School has returned to the winners' circle, clinching the New Zealand Secondary Schools title at Manukorihi Golf Club in New Plymouth.

The school boasts a storied history in schools' golf, with notable alumni including Danny Lee, Sam Hunt, and Brad Iles. Their last title win was in 2005, with a young Danny Lee playing a key role in the team.

After an exhilarating couple of days on the course in Taranaki, Kevin Bang, Francis Lockwood, and Harrison Beazley have added their names to the school's list of champions.

Despite heavy rain in the region over the past month, the 21 top secondary school teams from across New Zealand were treated to warm and sunny conditions for the two days of play. With only one paid staff member, the course superintendent, the presentation of the course and the smooth delivery of the event were a testament to the hundreds of hours of hard work put in by the club's passionate volunteer members.

When the action kicked off in roud one on Sunday afternoon, Kevin Bang led the charge for Rotorua Boys with a stunning four-under-par 68. Starting on the 7th hole, he was even through his first six holes before jumpstarting his round with an incredible albatross, holing a 2-iron on the par-five 1st hole, instantly taking his score to three-under-par. His round, combined with Francis Lockwood’s one-under 71, put Rotorua Boys in a one-shot lead over Kings College heading into day two.

Rotorua Boys and Kings College quickly separated themselves from the chasing pack, setting the stage for a two-horse race on Monday. Kings College's Ryan Xie led the way with a three-under 69, supported by Grace Zhan's one-under 71.

The final round saw the lead change hands multiple times, with the two schools tied with just three holes remaining. A bogey from Xie on the 16th saw Kings College slip one shot behind, only for Xie to birdie his final three holes, giving his team a fighting chance.

Unaware of the drama unfolding behind her, Zhan hit a stellar approach to within a foot on the par-five 18th, guaranteeing an eagle and providing a massive boost for Kings. However, Rotorua Boys were not to be outdone. Playing alongside Zhan, Francis Lockwood calmly made a birdie, maintaining a one-shot lead for his team with Xie and Bang in the final group behind.

With the title on the line, Xie made his third consecutive birdie to tie the match, but Bang's composure shone through as he sank his birdie putt from six feet to secure the championship for Rotorua Boys.

Pinehurst School also had an impressive round, their five-under-par total propelling them up the leaderboard to claim third place.

Many of these talented students will now head to the New Plymouth Golf Club to compete in the New Zealand Age Group Championships over the next four days.

For full scores click here Tournament leaderboard - Golf New Zealand