By ROSALEEN MacBRAYNE
Golf is the driving force for a Mt Maunganui great-grandmother, Roma Cole, who is coming up to her 82nd birthday.
The sprightly widow plays at least four rounds a week, sometimes six. On a 10.8 handicap, she holds the remarkable distinction of playing below her age.
A spokeswoman for Women's Golf New Zealand cannot recall any woman in her 80s having a gross score below her age. "It is definitely a rare feat."
When Cole hit 80 off the stick, which is eight over par for Mt Maunganui's challenging championship course, others became more excited than she did. Despite her passion for the sport Mrs Cole says she is not competitive.
"It's just lovely being out there and trying to hit a ball. It is an absolute joy and pleasure," she enthuses.
Not much puts this seasoned golfer off. Rain is unlikely to make her abandon the course and her only grumble is other women players chatting too much when she is trying to concentrate.
An unorthodox reverse grip - she grips with her left hand but swings the club right-handed - does not hold her back.
"I've never had a lesson ... It's hit and miss, and I do not miss very often. That costs a whisky."
Despite her age, Mrs Cole eschews golf carts, preferring to walk the greens.
"I don't like those carts. They're too draughty and there is all that climbing in and out. You lose something about the game of golf."
Roma Cole was a late starter to golf, taking it up at age 45.
The mother of two has four grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, but none seems interested in the sport.
Although she has no plans to give up golf, Mrs Cole has started bridge lessons. "Bridge is hard work. I think I left it a bit late to learn."
Golf: Late starter making up for lost time
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