The Binalong Sand Challenge took place over the last weekend, and while it was smaller than expected, the event was still a big hit with participants.
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Event organiser Jason Saunders stated that he was hoping for somewhere in the region of “60 to 80 people, would be good.”
Unfortunately, the numbers were well below expectations, but those that turned out enjoyed a relaxed weekend with some good golf, drinks, and great prizes to cap off the event.
Michael Patterson, who won the scratch event after finishing with a score of 69, one under par, was very impressed with the Sand Challenge.
“The course has been good, credit to the greenkeepers and all the volunteers I suppose,” Mr Patterson said.
The main event was on Sunday, which was arguably the worse day for the tournament to take place due to the blustery and unpredictable winds which assailed the course and the players.
However, Mr Patterson wasn’t too bothered by the treacherous weather.
“No, the wind’s alright. [There are] plenty of pine trees to dull the wind once you get down in there. [It’s a] good setup.”
He also mentioned his disappointment with the sparse turnout to the event, which he believes was of a suitable quality to warrant far more interest.
“I think next year they’re talking about combining it with their open tournament, so hopefully we can get 40 or 50 people here next year and go from there,” Mr Patterson said.
“Gotta start somewhere.”
Mr Saunders confirmed that he was seeking to combine the Sand Challenge with the Binalong Golf Club’s Open Tournament, in an effort to give more players a reason to come and join in.
He also mentioned that there are some initial plans developing with regards to a more social aspect to the challenge.
“I think we might go ahead with having like a ball or something on Saturday night,” he said.
Mr Saunders explained that the long weekend was to blame for some of the poor turnout.
“We had a lot of people pull out at the last minute,” he said. “We had probably 15 people pull out from Canberra, because of the long weekend.
“Some people didn’t realise it was on the long weekend, so we might look at not doing it on the long weekend [next year].”
The prizes for the winners were awarded on Sunday afternoon, following the conclusion of the main tournaments.
Up for grabs were golf balls, bottles of wine, gift cards, and a cash prize, all of which were claimed by the champions of each respective category.
