Waikato professional David Smail, aiming for a second New Zealand Open title at Gulf Harbour this week, was last night named golfer of the year.
Smail, who won the 2001 Open, picked up his fifth title last year at the Casio World Open, finished sixth on the Japan Tour rankings and represented New Zealand with Craig Perks at the World Cup.
He is New Zealand's highest-ranked golfer at No 96.
Wellington's Sarah Nicholson and Josh Geary of Tauranga were named the leading amateurs for the year, and the New Zealand Golf Achievement Award for best single performance of the year went to Manawatu professional Tim Wilkinson, who qualified and made the cut in two US PGA Tour events and won his Nationwide Tour card at the first attempt.
Amateurs Claire Dury of Palmerston North and Matamata's Richard Wright have won the Sir Bob Charles Scholarships which are awarded annually.
Golf: Smail named NZ golfer of the year
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