Day 33 - Harewood (Old)

Posted by Jamie on 2 February 2010 | 2 Comments | Tags: ,

This morning I woke from a deep sleep to a pillow soaked with drool.  The past week down south, in Queenstown, was amazing – but it certainly took its toll.  When we weren’t playing golf we were watching it, or spending time amongst the crowds at the NZ Open.  I tell you not to attract sympathy, but rather to set the scene for today, which was always going to be – first and foremost – one of those travel days.  

 After spending a whirlwind 12 hours with family, I met Michael at Harewood Golf Club – near Christchurch Airport – for this morning’s match.  Harewood in its heyday held prestigious events like the Garden City Classic, but in recent times appears to have been undergoing a transitional phase.  Before today I hadn’t been there in probably 5 years or so, but had only fond memories – in particular, of the Old Course (the big brother to the New Course, a younger, less challenging track).  Harewood had kindly accommodated us at late notice (3 days), after we juggled our itinerary to squeeze in more girlfriend time in Wellington.  

The course itself is undergoing significant renovations, and 9 holes are out of play while the greens are been rebuilt.  So we played 9 holes twice (and thankfully did better the second time around).  I had a sluggish start, and made 3 double bogeys in the first 4 holes (gulp!).  Thankfully I pulled it back and shot 77 (par 68), edging out Michael, who hacked an 81.  It’s hard to provide meaningful comment on the course, given the state it’s currently in.  It wouldn’t be fair.  Normally it’s a well kept, pine tree lined layout, with good greens.  And that’s how it’ll probably be when we next return, in 2011, after the renovations are completed.  In fact I’m very much looking forward to seeing what results a couple of million bucks will produce – probably pretty good ones I suppose.

Rod and Lisa – from the club – were very hospitable, and wished us well before we made our way to the airport.  Thanks to both of you for hosting us – we look forward to seeing how Harewood evolves in the coming months.

A quick flight to Wellington, followed by a short jog to get the car (taxis are expensive here, particularly from the airport, and we’re developing increasingly frugal tendencies), and we were back in the girls’ flat.  Have just had a lovely dinner with my other half, Angela, and will do farewells tomorrow morning for the last time before we reconvene in Australia.  

Tomorrow we play Paraparaumu – probably the best links course in the land, and one of the best courses full stop.  Last time Mike and I played there it was a howling southerly – wind / rain / hail / sleet – so hopefully the weather gods are kinder tomorrow.  Forecast is good; fingers crossed.

Until tomorrow...

Jamie 

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Comments

  • BTW, you guys now all square in strokeplay!!! Unbelievable.

    Posted by Pete, 03/02/2010 4:58am (1 year ago)

  • great work boys, 1 down, 11 to go. Looked like a great month. Still jealous as hell. had nine holes at a dirt track outside mumbai this morning, dont recomend india for your trip (good caddies tho). Good luck in Aussie!

    Posted by Pete, 03/02/2010 4:56am (1 year ago)