For the first time in several years, King's College had eight players represent the school in the competition, all performing exceptionally well and securing some national titles. The NZ Secondary School Championship was played over two days, with the girls team producing an outstanding second day performance to win the competition, becoming the top team in the country.
The team began the final round in second behind the tournament favourite Pinehurst. On the opening day, Rianne Li (Marion Bruce, Year 11) and Amy Han (Marion Bruce, Year 12) had the counting scores, shooting 74 and 75. On the final day, Grace Zhan (Marion Bruce, Year 11) chimed in, carding an even-par 73, which was matched by Amy Han. This meant we beat Pinehurst by ten strokes after an incredible second day by the team.
The boys team of Derek Peng (Greenbank, Year 12), Ryan Xie (Averill, Year 10) and Eamon Wairepo (Averill, Year 11) did very well to place 3rd in a competitive field and receive a bronze medal, with special mention to Ryan Xie’s scores of 69 and 68 on day 1 and 2. This had him in second place going in to the final day.
On the Friday, the students had a final round to decide the NZ Age Group Championships. Special mention must go to Rianne Li for placing 2nd in her category, on +5. She clocked up 6 birdies and 1 eagle over 3 rounds, beating an outstanding Chloe Lam (Marion Bruce, Year 11) to 3rd place by 1. Chloe played consistently well, scoring +2 on each day. Special mention must also go to Ryan Xie and Amy Han for securing bronze medals. Finally, Ishaan Shah (Parnell, Year 9) played very well, coming in 10th in his age category.
This is particularly impressive given he is only in Year 9. Next year promises to be another stellar year, given none of the team are in Year 13.
NZ Secondary School Championship (Team of 3)
Final outcome after 2 rounds:
The girsl team placed 1st. The team: Amy Han; Grace Zhan & Rianne Li with Chloe Lam as reserve.
The boys team placed 3rd. The team: Derek Peng, Eamon Wairepo & Ryan Xie with Ishaan Shah as reserve.
