Joining this year’s ambassador lineup for the first time are All Black legend Richie McCaw, former professional basketball player Tom Abercrombie and former Blackcaps cricketer Grant Elliott.
Former world number one tennis star Ash Barty played as an ambassador last year and has returned as a non-playing ambassador this year, saying she wished she could play but looked forward to watching the others get nervous.
And nervous was the word of the day from the newbies in the field. “I’m not a great golfer and lining up to play at the first tee box with people watching is going to be a bit nervewracking,” says McCaw.
Tom Abercombie says his 6ft 7in limbs can be as much of a disadvantage as an advantage.
“It can be a tricky thing to co-ordinate the long limbs and get them in synch,” he says.
But having scored a couple of birdies in practice, he could be one to watch. “With a little bit of help from the handicap it would be awesome to make the cut,” he says.
Grant Elliot says learning that he can pick up his ball had made his day. “I’m looking forward to watching the pros get into their work,” he says.
Other ambassadors in the line-up include those who have played over the years, including 12-time veteran Jeff Wilson, Israel Dagg, Stephen Fleming and Hayden Paddon.
“This is ultimately one of my favourite weeks of the year,” says Wilson. “It’s a magnificent golf course and a world-class event with great people. I’d never say no to an invitation to play here.”
And his pick of the ambassadors to do well? “My money is on the dark horse Richie, and I think Tom will do really well too.”
