The crew at Neangar Park Golf Club are busily preparing the course in the lead-up to the annual Evolution Print Copy Solutions Pro-Am.
Professional golfer and NPGC product Andrew Martin will return to defend his winner’s title.
“I always love returning to the course I learnt to play golf on,” Martin said.
“I played there a couple of times over Christmas and the course is in great condition.”
In the 2018 Pro-Am Martin was tied with playing partner Matthew Millar at seven-under par on the 18th hole, but then sunk a six-foot birdie putt to win the tournament.
NPGC president Phil DeAraugo said it was the club’s most important day of the year.
“It’s a great time of the year as all of the professionals are preparing for the Vic Open in early February so the event attracts a strong field of players,” DeAraugo said.
“Lucas Herbert is the draw card as he is now a top 100 ranked player.
“Also Andrew Martin is the defending champion and a strong supporter of our club, he knows the course like the back of his hand.
“The professionals really enjoy playing because a lot of our amateurs are decent golfers as well so it’s always a fun day for everyone.”
The club’s ground staff have been working around the clock to put all the final touches on the course.
“We’ve also made a few little improvements to the course with new bunkers on the 4th green and have extended the green on the 7th,” DeAraugo said.
“Next year when they come back they will see even more changes with our new pitch and putt, and driving range.”
In addition to the ground staff, volunteers will work tirelessly on the day to ensure the club puts on a top event for all of the competitors and spectators.
“They will help us immensely on the day with signs, catering and other logistics. Spectators will have the opportunity to walk around and watch some great golfers in action,” DeAraugo said.
The Bendigo region will host back-to-back golf Pro-Am tournaments with Axedale Golf Club set to host the first on Thursday January 10 and Neangar Park Golf Club the following day on Friday January 11.
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