Approximately 240 golfers strutted their stuff in beautiful weather for the 50th Central Otago Charity Classic in Alexandra this past weekend (November 5-6). 

Pat Treacy played with his Dad 50 years ago, and this year he joined forces with his son, while John Roche - the original instigator of the tournament in the 1970s - also took up his clubs again. 

First prize went to a pair, Gary Hancock and Barry Jordan, on 202; they took home a 65 inch TV. 

Second was Kirk Pritchard and Alex Walton on 204, and third place was shared by three pairs; John Gaw and Nelson Gaw, Murray Kerse and Stephen Mackle and Noel Radka and Ian Stewart on 205. 

Alexandra Golf Club manager Dai Johns said the weekend was a huge success.

“[There was] great Central Otago weather. We had players from Australia, lots from the North Island and most from the South Island.” 

John Gaw (left) and son Nelson scooped the father and son trophy

Eighteen holes were played on each day, Saturday was a four ball best ball (4BBB nett), and Sunday an individual medal. 

Dai said a “substantial amount” was raised for this year’s charity recipient St John Ambulance Central Otago. 

The tournament had $12,000 in prizes on offer, and a full field of golfers - 114 pairs - played.

This coming weekend will be another busy one for local golfers as the 43rd Ladies Sunshine Classic is on November 11-12, with 70 pairs setting off with a noon start on Friday. 

The golf club has been operating in its current location alongside the pines and SH8 since the mid 1960s (previously it was on Bridge Hill).

For more information about the club see its website.