Overcast conditions greeted spectators and players on the final day of the Play Today NSW Open on Sunday, but there was nothing gloomy about the action on and off the green out at Rich River Golf Club.
Tournament leader Kade McBride, -19, came into the day’s play three shots ahead of John Lyras (-16) and Tom Power-Horan (-15) as the trio set off to battle it out through the final 18 holes, flanked by a gaggle of spectators.
Running since 1931, the NSW Open was the first time anyone in attendance had seen the prestigious tournament grace the greens of Rich River, with an appreciative murmur accompanying the stroke-play of each competitor.
Golf NSW chief operating officer Graeme Phillipson said “he couldn’t be happier” with how the tournament had progressed and added its success would hopefully see the Open return in the future.
"Look we couldn't be happier to be honest,” Mr Phillipson said.
“The volunteers have been absolutely brilliant here at the club. The golf course itself has really held up despite having a very, very strong field.
“It's been great quality, not only the golf but the golf course itself, and the club here couldn't have been any more helpful.
“Based upon the way things have gone this week, we'd love to come back again whenever we get an opportunity.”
A 100-strong crowd trailed McBride for most of the day, though an equally big crowd kept their eyes firmly glued on David Micheluzzi, who had shaved the lead down to just one shot.
Off the green, perhaps the biggest show of them all was out at hole 16 — the “party hole.”
A modest crowd at the start of the day slowly swelled into one around 200-strong, and with the music dialled to 11 it was well and truly party time.
At the time of writing, no-one had aced the par 3, but with even a near-hit drawing a thrilled cry from the crowd it would have been a hell of a sound if anyone had.
For Moama local Allan Polak, watching on from the green at the 15th hole leading into the 16th with friend Henry, it was exciting to have a tournament the calibre of the Open in the region.
“It’s been a great coup to get the Open up here,” Mr Polak said.
“The golfs been great, and it’s great for Moama as well.”
For Henry, it was a sparkling reflection on the quality of the courses out in the country.
“It’s a great showcase for courses along the Murray,” he said.
“I’ve just been watching it on the TV and thought I better get down here.”