The Raglan Golf Club Division 2 Pennants team has secured a historic promotion to Division 1 in the Waikato Golf Association’s Championship Pennants competition — and team captain Steve Hall says it’s a proud moment for the club and the community.
We caught up with Steve to learn more about what this victory means and how the team pulled it off.
What is the Championship Pennants competition?
“It’s a regional, team-based scratch golf competition,” Steve explains. “Teams of six represent their home clubs across four divisions — Division 1 being the highest — with eight teams in each division. Each season, the top team earns promotion and the bottom team is relegated.”
Who did Raglan face this season?
The team played a strong lineup of competitors over the season: Hamilton #2, Tieke #2, Pirongia, Waitomo, Cambridge #1, Stewart Alexander, and Hauraki.
Who made up the team?
The 2024 team featured:
• Hamish Kerr
• Scotty Klaver
• Aaron Brown
• Steve Hall (Captain)
• Ken Shea
• Luke Phillips
• Dan Hakes (reserve)
Were team members placed strategically?
While strategy always plays a part, Waikato Golf rules require teams to field players in order of handicap — even though the competition itself is played without handicaps (scratch format).
How did it feel to earn promotion?
“Super happy,” says Steve. “Proud of the team, proud of each other and proud to represent Raglan Golf Club. We’ve worked hard and it paid off.”
What does Division 1 mean for Raglan?
“It means we’ll be up against the best players in the best eight teams across the Waikato. It’s a huge step up and a big deal for a small club like ours.”
Highs and lows?
“There were no real low points — every round is good fun and we’re always excited to play. But the high point was absolutely winning the final at home in Raglan, getting our name back on the Division 2 trophy, and clinching that all-important promotion.”
What kind of golfer makes a Division 1 team?
“All our players are off handicaps under 3,” Steve says. “But more important than that is team spirit — being a good fit, putting the team before individual results, and taking pride in representing little old Raglan on the regional stage.”
Congratulations to the team — Division 1 awaits!
Interview by Pete Aim, Off the Tee Correspondent
