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Congratulations to the Men’s Open Pennant team on winning the GCDGA Pennant on Sunday 22 March 2026.
Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club claimed the 2026 Open Pennant title, edging Emerald Lakes 4–3 in a gripping final played at Burleigh Golf Club. With the first groups sent out at 6:30am, the decider unfolded in testing early‑morning conditions and lived up to its billing, with the result not decided until the final match reached the closing holes.
Sanctuary Cove’s depth across the lineup proved decisive across a closely contested match‑up.
Ethan Leighton delivered the standout performance of the morning, dismantling his experienced opponent 7 and 6 with a blistering run of birdies.
Zac Stuart set the tone early, driving the ball superbly and controlling his match from the outset in a composed 4 and 3 victory.
Alfie Ward was at his aggressive best, taking on one of the competition’s most consistent performers and closing out a strong 4 and 2 win.
Paul Smerdon delivered in the defining moment of the final. After a slow start in the cool early conditions, he worked his way back into the contest and, from 2 down after 11 holes, produced a brilliant finish over the closing seven holes, capped by a run of birdies, to secure a crucial 2 up victory. His match was the last on course and ultimately decided the pennant.
Emerald Lakes refused to yield, claiming three matches to ensure the contest went right down to the wire.
Taylor Barr went down on the final hole after fighting all day in a high‑quality contest. He has enjoyed an exceptional season and entered the final undefeated over the past two years.
Adam Hawkins went down 3 and 2 but displayed his trademark grit and determination throughout, continuing to apply pressure until the end. His experience and attitude were critical to the team across the campaign.
Max Russell lost 2 down, showing great resilience and composure against an opponent whose putter proved decisive, remaining competitive throughout the match.
The victory caps off a consistent season built on contributions from the entire squad, with Ryosei Mizuno, Byron Reick, and Ben Chan all playing important roles throughout the campaign.
Special recognition goes to Captain Paul Blake, whose leadership, organisation, and unwavering commitment to the team were second to none. He was a constant presence throughout the morning, floating between groups, encouraging and energising the side when it mattered most.
The Club also acknowledges the efforts of caddies and supporters who contributed throughout the season, along with Golf Operations Manager Ryan Gailey, whose support behind the scenes was instrumental across the campaign.
In the end, composure in the key moments proved the difference, with Sanctuary Cove holding firm to secure the 2026 pennant title, the Club’s first since 2017.
