GOLF CHAMPION

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23202, 23 November 1938, Page 16

GOLF CHAMPION

THE AMATEUR TITLE RETURN OF THE WINNER PAX SMITH WELCOMED HOME In spite of the carliness of hit) arrival by the first express yesterday morning, Pax Smith, the 20-year-old Akarana golf player, who last week won the amateur championship of New Zealand at the Balmacewen links, was greeted by an enthusiastic gathering when he stepped from tho Wellington train at the Auckland Railway Station. In addition to members and officials of the Akarana Golf Club, there was, a large number of personal friends to frelcome him. Smith flew from Christchurch to Palmerston North and caught the Wellington express there on Monday evening. The aeroplane in which Smith flew from Christchurch experienced a stormy passage, and when it was landing at Palmerston North a wing touched the ground and tho machine was forced to rise again before finallv settling on the aerodrome. The only luggage Smith had with him when he arrived was a largo case containing the massive cup ho won at the Dominion championships. Smith makes a very modest champion and there was no indication by his appearance yesterday morning of the stress and excitement ho had undergone during the past week. His victory was very popular with all competitors in the tournament. A function in his honour will be given at the Akarana links next Wednesday evening, when representatives of various other golf clubs in Auckland will be invited to be present. BOBBY LOOKE DEPARTS FAREWELL GATHERING The South African golfer, A. D. Locke, who won tho open title at the recent New Zealand championship tournament at the Balmacewen links, left for Australia yesterday by the Awatea. He was accompanied by his manager, Mr. S. J. Hines. Locke was farewolled by a number of friends and members of Auckland golf clubs. Among those who wished him bon voyage were A. Murray and E. J. Moss, against whom he had played matches, and Pax Smith, winner of tho Dominion amateur championship. Locke said that he had thoroughly enjoved his tour and that ho was looking forward to his return to New Zealand. When that would be would depend on his performances in tho British open championship and other overseas tournaments.