Caddy Call for 2016 BMW ISPS Handa New Zealand Open
Social and serious golfers are being invited to “take part in the action” for this year’s 2016 BMW ISPS Handa New Zealand Open in Queenstown from March 10 to 13.
An iconic and hugely popular sporting event that’s back on the Queenstown calendar, the Open will be played in a Pro-Am format incorporating 144 professional and 144 amateur players over the first two days, before a Friday night ‘cut’ reduces the field.
Over 120 caddies will be required for the tournament, a tier one event on the PGA Tour of Australasia, with caddies required from Monday March 7 for registration and practice rounds at The Hills and Millbrook Resort golf courses.
Caddy Master Andrew Whiley said while there was a number of returning caddies, there were still plenty of places available for keen golf enthusiasts.
“Caddies are a fundamental part of the event at both The Hills and Millbrook,” he said.
“It does really help if they have some golf knowledge, but most importantly they need to be fit, keep up with the players and able to carry a tour bag around either course.
“Caddying at the NZ Open is the perfect way to get inside the ropes and into the thick of the action, getting up close and personal with some of the world’s best golfers and, of course, the odd celebrity player.”
Mr Whiley said most caddies traditionally received $75 per day on average plus a tip, but it was really about “taking part and being involved in the play”.
Wellington caddy Jaimes Wood – nicknamed Woody – will be caddying once again for defending champion Jordan Zunic, and described the experience as “mind blowing”.
“The whole event was an unforgettable experience and it was great to be part of the winning team,” said Woody.
“I’m looking forward to returning in March to carry Zunic’s bag to hopefully help him defend the title.”
Andrew Whiley said Woody’s story was typical of many.
“It was awesome to see one of our caddies – who was caddying for the first time – on the winner’s bag.
“We can’t guarantee a story like this but caddies all walk away with a very unique and interesting golfing experiences.”
There is a $39 cost to register and all caddies receive an BMW ISPS Handa New Zealand Open golf shirt and hat to wear while caddying and to take home as a souvenir.
Prospective volunteers can register their interest for the event by filling in the Caddie Registration Form on the website (www.nzopen.co.nz/caddies) or contact Andrew Whiley at caddymaster@outlook.com.
