Golf: Ace surprise at last after 30 long years

It took a quick search of the car for Ohakunes Jill Martin to find her golf card when the Wanganui Chronicle rang, but that was just to get the technical details of a shot she will never forget.

A 30-year veteran of the Waimarino Golf Club, Martin sank her first hole-in-one during a club day on Sunday with a magic swing on the 17th hole, a par-3, 117m off the ladies tee.

Martin and her playing partner did not have a sight of the hole due to afternoon shadows and leaves from nearby birch trees. It bounced in front and after that we have no idea, she said.

Walking down the slope, Martin was surprised not to find her ball on the green as she had felt it had been a good shot. Then her partner pointed to the hole.

In a way, it was a bit disappointing I didnt see it go in and I could have jumped up and down and yahooed, Martin said.

But on the other hand, it was a pleasant surprise.

Id been beginning to wonder if Id ever get one.

Nor was there much time to celebrate the feat. Martin had a quick cup of tea then headed off as there was a home fire to build and animals to feed.

Golf insurance company US Hole In One calculates the odds of an average player scoring an ace at 12,500 to 1.