Golf: Kiwis caught up in storm

A storm washed away a promising foundation for the New Zealand women's side in the opening round of the world teams championship in Puerto Rico yesterday.

The young team were at a competitive three-over and inside the top 15 when the storm forced a rain delay at the Rio Mar Country Club.

New Zealand then dropped five shots in the final few holes in the heavy conditions to fall to a share of 22nd place on eight-over 152.

They were 15 shots behind surprise leaders Canada.


The best of the New Zealanders was Wellington teenager Sarah Nicholson, who fired a three-over 75, dropping two shots in the final three holes.

Manawatu's US-based player Claire Dury, a late inclusion in the side, shot a 77, dropping four shots in the final five holes, mostly after the storm, and Rotorua's Penny Newbrook fired a non-counting 78.

The two best scores count in each of the four rounds at the championship.

Canada had a two-shot advantage over favourites United States, with a further three shots back to Korea.

New Zealand shared 22nd place with Australia and Chile.


"It was a disappointing finish. The girls are really gutted because they felt they had played well," national coach Geoff Smart said.

"They had worked themselves into a useful start late into the round. We were the last group on the course so we had the worst of the conditions, and the girls lost their momentum."

- NZPA