Golf: Geary looking to defend Taranaki Open title

NZ Golf

The 2024 Jennian Homes Charles Tour reaches its grand finale this week at the TSB Taranaki Open, hosted by the picturesque New Plymouth Golf Club. 

The field is packed with talent, and all eyes will be on Josh Geary, who enters this final event with back-to-back victories from the Carrus Tauranga Open and the Christies Floorings Mount Open. Geary’s exceptional form has placed him in prime position to not only capture the TSB Taranaki Open trophy but also secure the coveted Jennian Homes Charles Tour Cup for 2024.

However, there’s a potential upset brewing. Golf New Zealand academy member Jayden Ford could spoil Geary’s party. If Ford clinches victory this week and Geary finishes outside the top 10, Ford could swoop in to take the title. It sets the stage for an electrifying week of golf with high stakes for both players.

The weather in Taranaki has been stunning in the lead-up to the tournament, but conditions are expected to change as the week progresses. Players will likely face challenging winds and rain, adding to the difficulty of navigating the course’s thick and lush rough. Keeping the ball on the fairways will be crucial, as the rough could prove unforgiving for those who stray off course.

In addition to the prestigious titles on the line, the top 25 players on the Jennian Homes Charles Tour leaderboard will earn their spot in the "Race to Tieke" tournament, set to take place in early 2025. It’s the perfect reason to head down to New Plymouth Golf Club and watch the action unfold live. If you can’t make it in person, stay up-to-date with the live leaderboard on GolfNZ.org.