New Zealand Golf is pleased to confirm that it will be supporting a new event in 2015, a form of the game that combines both golf skill and athleticism.

Teeing off this summer is the inaugural New Zealand Speedgolf Open to be held on the weekend of February 21 – 22 at the Rotorua Golf Club.

The tournament is open to all comers, keen athletes or casual golfers who do not have to be a member of a golf club.

Jason Cameron, Major Events Coordinator from Destination Rotorua, said it was exciting to bring the inaugural Speedgolf Open to New Zealand.

“This will be a fun, social weekend and a unique geothermal golfing experience for visitors and locals alike,” he said.

“The event fits well with Rotorua’s position as a host of major events and attracting participants from around New Zealand and overseas.”

There are a number of other activities planned on the weekend of the Speedgolf Open, including a fun run/exhibition warm up prior to the qualifying rounds on the Saturday, a themed dinner with guest speakers at the Holiday Inn on the Saturday night and the annual Lakeside Concert.

Saturday will feature qualifying and tips from the experts with finals on Sunday where everyone participating will be involved.

The winners of the tournament will gain direct access to the Speedgolf World Championships in Oregon, USA in 2015.

The event will feature Olympic Silver Medallist, Nick Willis who is back in New Zealand for the summer.

Willis is a well-known proponent of Speedgolf and is excited about the opportunity to play the game in New Zealand.

“Speedgolf has become a great passion of mine,” said the 31-year-old.

“It enables me to get out onto the links for 9 or 18 holes, without me being away from home for more than an hour – perfect when having a young family.  It is also a great workout that compliments my running training, and helps keep me fit in the off season when I need a mental break from athletics.

“I am really excited for the NZ Speedgolf Open in Rotorua, to showcase this great sport to all the talented jack-of-all-trade sportspeople we have in our country.”

Speedgolf is the newest fun, fast, fitness-oriented alternative to traditional golf to tee off in New Zealand. Kiwis of all ages, skill levels, and fitness levels can learn to play and enjoy Speedgolf at their own pace. Get fit and hone golfing skills.

The Rotorua Golf Club is delighted to be able to host the first NZ Speedgolf Open.

“We will look forward to being part of another format option to the game of golf as we know it and the interest it will bring to Rotorua and our club,” said General Manager Don Blackledge.

The Executive Director of Speedgolf International, Scott Dawley, was also excited by the announcement.

“Speedgolf is beginning to thrive in countries all over the world, and New Zealand is certainly no exception,” he said.

“Thanks to the enthusiasm and support of Nick Willis, Olympic runner and 2-time Speedgolf World Championship competitor, we are thrilled to announce an agreement with Destination Rotorua to host the 2015 Inaugural NZ Speedgolf Open.

“New Zealand Golf have also endorsed this event. This sanctioned event will be held at the spectacular Rotorua Golf Club, and will also serve as an official international qualifier for the 2015 Speedgolf World Championships.”

The speedgolf format combines the gross golf score and adds the minutes to that total to receive the result.

Willis as an example started the first round of the 2013 World Championship with a gross score of 86 which he achieved in 44 minutes and 20 seconds. The result is 130.20.

New Zealand Golf Chief Executive Dean Murphy said this will be an attractive option to those that both love their golf and like to keep fit.

“I wish Destination Rotorua and Rotorua Golf Club all the best and applaud their initiative to conduct this unique event in New Zealand,” he said.

“From the discussion within the office we just might have a few enter and give it a try. It’s certainly a fun concept and another great way to enjoy our sport.”

To enter go to www.golf.co.nz and under the tournament section register for the New Zealand Speedgolf Open.

Image Caption: The Rotorua Golf Club will host the inaugural New Zealand Speedgolf Open in 2015.

For more information contact:

Jason Cameron

Major Events Coordinator

Destination Rotorua

D: 07 351 8694   M: 027 249 8020

E: jason.cameron@rdc.govt.nz