Marton golfer notches first hole in one on home links

It is safe to say Darren Oliver has never regretted getting back into his golf.

The 35-year-old member of the Marton Golf Club played the game as a junior, then gave it away due to family commitments.

Having picked it up again over the past nine years, in late June Oliver used his nine iron to sink the third "hole in one" of his playing days on Marton's 6th hole, which is a Par 3 of 136m.

Previously, Oliver had made two aces playing on the Rangitikei course but this was his first at his home course.

"I saw it all the way, it's a two-tiered green," he said.

The ball struck the middle of the hill between the two levels and began its roll down to destiny.

"When I saw it coming back I saw it's definitely in line," Oliver said."I must be pretty lucky."

Customary practice is to shout the foursome you're playing with, and possibly any other thirsty patrons.

Oliver's name will be added to the honours board in the club house.

His success on June 20 is the second hole in one in a fortnight in the region after Hawkestone club member Kevin Rei made an ace last Saturday.