A STILL morning which turned into a breezy afternoon made for a true links experience at Ōhope’s inaugural Pro-Am tournament on Monday.

Some morning dew dried from 10am, making for smooth play as the afternoon neared, before a sea breeze kicked in, making for challenging conditions for those unfamiliar with the course, and a few wayward balls.

Team Energised, comprised of Murray Chapman, Grant McLeod and Jim Gartshore, took out first place.

Margaret Greer, Tara Barrie and Paul White were second on the table, with Janny Pok, Paul Sanford and Matt Carter in third.

In the professional standings, Josh Meenhorst came first, with Mitchell Newport and Tyler Wood in second and third respectively.

The Ōhope Beach Golf Links nib Pro-Am was a full field with 128 golfers from around New Zealand contesting the prize pool, and the top 10 teams walking away with a prize.

It saw 33 teams of amateurs team up and play alongside 36 professionals, including the likes of world ranked number 532 Kazuma Kobori.

Amateurs played on their registered handicap, while the professionals played on zero.

Ōhope Golf Links marketing and sponsorship manager Lidi Schiefelbusch said volunteers and sponsors were vital in making the event possible.

A mix and mingle event was held on Sunday to allow players more time to interact with the professionals, with beer and wine sponsored by Asahi.

Golfers were supplied with breakfast, lunch and dinner on tournament day, and were kept refreshed with Heineken beer.

Schiefelbusch said support came from sponsors both in the local community and outside it, who showed pride in backing young professional golfers, many of whom look set to make it big on the world stage.