By Dylan De Jong

Horsham Golf Club leaders are confident the success of an event featuring a world champion golfer represents an opportunity to run similar promotions.  

Australian golfer Geoff Ogilvy, who has a US Open and three world championships under his belt, played alongside major club sponsors and Gen Z players during the two-day event last week. 

Club manager Darryl McRae said more than 100 spectators watched Ogilvy in action. 

PHOTOS: US Open winner Geoff Ogilvy takes on the locals at Horsham Golf Club

Ogilvy played nine holes against club sponsors represented by Adam Roche, ACE Radio; Simon Hopper, CHS Group; Heath Martin, O’Connors; Matt Beddison, Crop Opti; Jenny McRae, Horsham Golf Club; David Johns, Horsham Doors and Glass; Brian Mannix, Forty Winks; and Craig O’Connor, Locks Constructions.

“There were some really good reports back from the Ogilvy Foundation about the condition of the course and the hospitality the club provided,” Mr McRae said. 

“It was a very successful event, with the likelihood that the Ogilvy Foundation will come back again. If we get the opportunity to do this again, we’ll certainly try to get more involvement with our members and sponsors.”

Mr McRae said tourism generated from the event provided an additional economic benefit for Horsham’s economy. 

“There’s also a bit of a spin-off effect for the community because there’s accommodation needed from those who attended and money spent in the community while they’re here,” he said.

“We rely on the community to support our club, so this helps us give a bit of money back into the community.” 

The world champion joined junior players at the Horsham course on Friday for a Gen Z tournament. Ogilvy Foundation helps young people find pathways into professional golf.  

Bryden MacPherson finished his round with a new course record with 64 off the stick. Runner-up was Mathias Sanchez with 65 on countback from Tom Power Horan.

Leading amateur was Aiden Didone, 66, followed by Brodey Harrison, Caleb Bovalina and Jack Hughes all on 67. 

Leading female was Alex Hilliard, 70.

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