Catalina’s John Neeson claims prestigious title at Hickory Championships

Catalina Club member John Neeson has been awarded the male over-70s Australian Hickory Champion title in South Australia.

Catalina Club member John Neeson has played in a memorable Championship event at the beautiful Royal Adelaide Golf Club – the 30th annual Australian Hickory Open Championships.

Over October 13 and 14, golfers from across the country descended to the Royal Adelaide and Grange golf clubs to compete using hickory clubs predating 1935. According to John, these clubs are playable if you hit the sweet spot, but disastrous when you miss. These aged clubs meant play was slower, and measuring devices were not allowed to be used, while period clothing was encouraged to celebrate the pioneering spirit of golf.

John, alongside his playing partner, at the Australian Hickory Champion presentation.

In fine conditions, John started with a solid score of 77 to trail leaders Lex Johnstone and Manly’s head professional Phil Baird by three strokes. On the following day, John managed another steady 77 only to discover that he’d missed tying the winning score by only one stroke.

As a consolation, John was tied third as equal leading amateur at the close of the competition, and was awarded the Male Over-70 Australian Hickory Champion title, and took home a replica Mills Aluminium putter for his efforts.

Congratulations to John on his great achievement!

Published October 25, 2025