Historic golf cup celebrates 40 years

WHEN Marlene Hendy and her friend Kay Wilkie began the Mt Ida Cup, they didn’t imagine it would still be running today.

Eighty-four players competed in the 40th Mt Ida Cup at the Heathcote Gold Club last Friday.

“I’m amazed that there is still so much interest after all these years,” said Ms Hendy.

“It has been running continuously since we started it except during COVID restrictions.”

Ms Hendy started playing golf at the Tooborac 9-hole course and joined the Heathcote club when it closed.

“Kay and I were playing in tournaments at various other clubs and thought Heathcote needs to have something like this too,” she said.

“We were trying to think of a name for it, then I looked up at Mt Ida overlooking the course and that was it.

“People are always happy to travel to the course and we’ve had great attendance over the years.

“Golf is a great way to meet people. Everyone is always chatty and outgoing.

“I’ve been lucky to be able to play golf in Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and Fiji.”

Although she is no longer involved in running the event, she praised the committee members who work hard to keep it running.

“They all work hard and Heathcote Winery are very generous sponsors.”

The 40th Mt Ida Cup began in misty conditions but ended in brilliant sunshine.

Playing 4BBBB, the Heathcote Challenge Team of Stephanie Hester, Carol Stuart, Liz Tobin and Amber Chilcott were victorious and retained the Challenge Cup.

Runners up were the Trentham team of Lisa Caines, Jenny Cutter, Carolyn, Garvey and Sally Kirkright.

Best pair were Deanna Witty and Michelle Feikema from Woodlands.

Runners-up were Janine Lord and Patricia Brearley from Trentham.