Wellington defends Freyberg Masters

After a masterful week at Motueka Golf Club, Wellington has successfully defended their Freyberg Masters title.

The defending champions won their second-straight title with a round to spare at the Master’s event, accumulating 6.5 wins and 28 games to be three games ahead of Canterbury going into the final round this afternoon. As Canterbury had a bye, no one could catch the capital side.

They won their final match this afternoon to cap off a near-perfect week, 4 - 1 over Auckland,  with their only minor hiccup coming against Hawke’s Bay with a half.

Wellington Manager Steve Weir says it’s been an outstanding week.

“We have a great team dynamic. The golf was quality; I’m very proud of the boys for going back-to-back.”

The capital side came into the final day today with their fate in their own hands. They played a strong Manawatu-Wanganui team and got over the line 3.5 – 1.5 to tee their final day off this morning. Wellington number five Matt Pegg, number three Brad Rowland, and number one Jonno Cane all had victories, while Mark Whalen halved his match at number four.

With the title sewn up, they still had a job to do against a dangerous Auckland side who, unfortunately, failed to fire on all cylinders this week.

Through nine holes, Auckland had their noses in front and was up in three of the five matches. Wellington displayed why they’re a champion side, flipping the top two matches, which got the side over the line 4 – 1.

Wins went to Wellington’s top four, meaning both Cane and Rowland went through the tournament unbeaten.

“It was a team effort. Yes, Cane and Rowland were unbeaten, but they all chimed in at the right time. I’m just super proud of the team and all they’ve achieved over the past couple of years.”

North Harbour finished second on 6.5 wins and 25.5 games, finishing half a game better than Canterbury, who rounded out the podium.

Golf NZ Media

‍