The Sands puts up $10,000 for a hole in one

THE golfing community is sharpening its skills and heading to The Sands Torquay to take a swing at the $10,000 prize for anyone who sinks a hole-in-one on the driving range.

The Sands Torquay believes its initiative is the first of its kind in Australia, and it has already captured the imagination of local golfers and visitors alike.

Traditionally, hole-in-one prizes are insured as part of organised golf competitions, but The Sands management decided to up the ante with an unsanctioned challenge and fund the prize directly.

“We wanted to create something truly exciting and memorable for our community,” The Sands golf operations manager Mat Mackay said.

“Golfers love a challenge, and what better way to spice up a practice session than the possibility of walking away with $10,000?”

The challenge has already drawn a surge of visitors to The Sands’ driving range, with players of all skill levels lining up for their chance at glory.

The rules are simple: participants pay a nominal entry fee, take aim at the specially designed target, and hope their ball finds the bottom of the cup in a single stroke.

Many players are sharing their attempts and near-misses on social media.

“It’s genius,” local golfer Nigel Sullivan said.

“It’s not every day you get a chance to win 10 grand just by practicing your swing.

“Plus, it’s great to see a club investing back into the community in such a creative way.”

The Sands management sees the $10,000 prize as an investment in entertainment and engagement.

“Golf is more than a sport; it’s a way to bring people together,” Mr Mackay said.

“This challenge is just one of the ways we’re trying to make the game more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.”