UPDATE: Tasmanian golfer Mat Goggin made headlines today as he clinched victory at the $150,000 NSW Senior Open in a stunning comeback at Thurgoona Country Club Resort. In a thrilling finish, Goggin unleashed a jaw-dropping 325m drive on the 17th hole, setting the stage for a crucial birdie that propelled him from two shots down to victory.
The 51-year-old golfer finished the tournament at 13-under (203), securing a one-shot win over competitors Peter Lonard and South African-born Leon Trenerry, with last year’s champion David McKenzie trailing by another shot. “Not bad for an old fella,” Goggin remarked, reflecting on his powerful drives, which he credited as a key strength in his game.
Goggin’s victory marks his first win since the 2015 Panama Claro Championship. “I’ve been doing this long enough to have a good appreciation of how hard it is to win tournaments,” he said, acknowledging the pressure he felt during the round. As temperatures soared to the low 30s on the final day, Goggin started strong but faced challenges after a bogey on the 10th hole and a penalty drop on the 11th.
In a dramatic twist, Trenerry’s eagle on the 14th hole briefly put him in the lead, but Goggin fought back. His magnificent drive on the 17th left him just 25m from the pin, while Trenerry faltered with a bogey. With both players needing birdies to win, Goggin successfully sank a 3m putt, solidifying his triumph.
Goggin’s final round of four-under 68 earned him the $26,970 first prize, enhancing the excitement around the event, which has been hosted at Thurgoona for seven years. Stuart Fraser, CEO of Golf NSW, noted, “The crowds around the 18th green get bigger and bigger every year,” praising the positive feedback from players and the club’s efforts.
Looking ahead, fans and golfers alike are eager to see if Goggin can maintain this momentum in future tournaments. His remarkable comeback at the NSW Senior Open not only highlights his skill but also serves as an inspiring reminder of perseverance in sports.
Stay tuned for more updates on Goggin’s journey and upcoming events as the golf community buzzes with excitement around his thrilling victory.
