There were booming drives, fabulous iron shots, spectacular chips and fantastic putts as golfers battled for bragging rights in the Kawerau 54-hole Golf Tournament last weekend.

Although there were fewer numbers than in previous years, organisers weren’t going to let that dampen their spirits.

Due to rising costs, some players from out of town were unable to make this year’s tournament and rather than cancel it altogether, organisers opted to run with a smaller field.

The tournament still featured more than 90 golfers vying for the coveted Warren Ruri Trophy.

The scoring may not have been as high compared to previous years, because of the weather, but there was still exceptional golf played, with Richard Shortland taking home the top honour.

Other main prize winners were Tiwai Dowie, who claimed the Brian Bradley Trophy, Tane Enright, who was the Terry Hunt Trophy winner for top junior, while the John Natana Trophy went to Keegan Jephson.

Organiser Flash Rowlands said it was another exceptional tournament.

“All of the field said they had a great time and would be back again next year.

“The only real let down was the weather with a bit of rain on Sunday.”

Rowlands said the course played incredibly well and although the weather made it challenging at times, the golfers fought their way through.”

Again, the tournament had huge support from sponsors, with more than $10,000 given out in prizes.

“We were super lucky that we had heaps of great sponsors again and even had some new ones. About 50 players or so managed a prize, so we’re happy with that.”

Rowlands said a large number of the field had played at the tournament before, which spoke volumes of how much they enjoy it.

“While it is a golf tournament. We try and make sure they have a blast and enjoy themselves as well. Prizegiving is always great fun.”

He said the smaller numbers had a bonus on the course.

“It meant everything flowed really smoothly right throughout.”

Though takings wouldn’t be as big as the past couple of years, Rowlands said the club would still make some decent money from the tournament.

“We just have to limit our expectations a bit on how much we expect to make. It’s still a great tournament and because we have a few less numbers doesn’t mean we should just cancel it.”

It was also the first year of the tournament without a Rangihika competing.

Next year, Rowlands will celebrate 25 years as organiser of the tournament, which has been going more than 30 years. He hopes there will be a big turnout to help him celebrate.