Queenscliff dominates the Pennant Finals, with both teams tasting success on Sunday, 19 May in the 2024 Season Division 4 and Handicap East Pennant Finals.
Both teams battled inclement weather and tough opposition to win the ultimate success, bringing home two Premiership flags. Despite the chill factor, the players were well supported with members and guests cheering them along and caddies braving the wind supporting their mates to a well-deserved Pennant win.
Many of the Premiership players commented on how proud they were to represent Queenscliff Golf Club, crediting Pennant Team Manager, Richard (Dick) Lewis and the team Captains on their solid leadership, coaching and all-around support throughout the season. A special thank you went out to John O’Donoghue for his support of the Handicap East team during their final in the absence of Dick.
Division 4 Pennant Team, consisting of Michael McSween (Captain), Mick Havelberg, Bernie Crane, Darren Shapter, Dave Thomas, Josh Mastin and Murray Warren, beat Ocean Grove on our home turf.
With the home advantage and a strong performance throughout the home and away matches, the team was confident they could master the tricky conditions Swan Island can throw at the course. However, with both sides fielding quality teams, each player was determined to play their part, with even the losses falling short by the smallest of margins. Dave Thomas credited his teammates and spectators for braving the cold and his caddy, Bill Clifton for raking 8 bunkers (a bit excessive according to Dave – the bunkers, not Bill). A special mention again for Dick Lewis for his support and “awesome managerial efforts” throughout the season.
Overall: Queenscliff (5) defeated Ocean Grove (2)
- Josh Mastin defeated Tyron Cover, 3 & 2
- Murray Warren lost to Craig Howell, 19th Hole
- David Thomas lost to Kade Diamond, 19th Hole
- Bernie Crane defeated Nick Lewis, 18th Hole
- Michael McSween defeated Kelvyn Carmichael, 3 & 1
- Darren Shapter defeated Pat Kuipers, 5 & 3
- Michael Havelberg defeated David Smith, 5 & 3
The Handicap East Pennant Team of Marty Christensen, Brian Shiell, Anthony Webber, Paul O’Donoghue and ably captained by Warren Fenton, claimed the win over Clifton Springs, played at Lara.
Warren paid tribute to his team who battled it out to their final holes, with three match-ups coming down to the wire and one decided on the 19th with a play-off. He said, “It was rewarding for me as Captain to have a committed team and we were rewarded with a great win in a tight match.”
Marty Christensen highlighted Warren’s exceptional team leadership to get them to the finals. Wozza’s memorable long bomb putt on the 18th taking his match to extra holes demonstrated his drive and competitiveness to win for his team. Wozza breathed a sigh of relief as he made his way down the fairway of the first playoff hole to hear his team had secured victory. Marty hopes the success of both teams encourages other members to get involved in Pennant at the next opportunity.
Overall: Queenscliff (3.5) defeated Clifton Springs (1.5)
- Paul O’Donoghue lost to Harry Percan, 5 & 4
- Brian Shiell defeated Damien Priddle, 17th Hole (2up)
- Anthony Webber defeated Brent Wiltshire, 17th Hole (2up)
- Warren Fenton tied with Rod Buchmasser, 19th Hole
- Marty Christensen defeated Joel Nairn, 17th Hole (2up)
Both teams gathered together at the end of the day to enjoy a few pizzas, beverages… and, undoubtedly, many laughs and tales from the day’s highlight reels.
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