GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21333, 7 November 1932, Page 8

GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

For the fourth year in succession A. J. Shaw, the professional, has won the open golf championship of New Zealand, his card of 289 giving an average that proclaims a master of the game. A. D. S. Duncan, the veteran amateur, was runner-up with 294 and there is nothing derogatory to tho winner in saying that with him lie the major honours of the contest. Mr. Duncan is the "grand old man" of New Zealand golf, whose record, for an amateur at least, must be almost unique. He made his first successful debut in national contests 33 years ago, when he won the amateur championship, a feat which he repoated on nine other occasions between 1899 and 1926. Thrice he has won tho open title, in 1907, 1910 arid 1911, and almost invariably has gained a high place in the list. But that at over 60 years of age he should occupy second place in competition with the elect of the game is a very remarkable achievement. It is said that champions in all ball games are born, that in addition to eye, touch, judgment and temperament, they possess some extra gift which puts an clement of genius into their play. This may be so, but, nevertheless, the individual so endowed must have that infinite capacity for taking pains if natural skill is to be fully developed. Mr. Duncan's long career in first-class golf is proof of unflagging effort toward perfection and possibly the secret of his amazing stamina is to be found in his steady application to the game. lie is an inspiration to all players, and, incidentally, is a striking demonstration of its value as a health-giving recreation. Without being too strenuous for those past youth it provides an adequate amount of exercise, and, by demanding mental concentration, definitely excludes the worries of work from tho player's mind. It exacts a great deal of discipline and self-control, and strength of character can be. read into every fine score.