Maddy Harker
13 April 2020, 6:00 PM
Two Wanaka locals are making the most of the lockdown by creating the new ‘Maungawera Valley Golf & Country Club’ on their rural property.
For now the club has just two members, homeowners Robbie and Phil Selby, who have created an ‘international running track’ complete with Olympic flag, ‘clubhouse’ for workouts, and ‘international standard golf short game practice facilities’.
“For us, enduring these next few weeks is not just about surviving, it’s about making the experience as enjoyable as we can alongside giving ourselves purpose,” Phil said.
“Wanaka is a very fit, sporting town, boasting more than its fair share of elite athletes in a range of sports. We, in turn, embrace the same culture, so there are a lot of sporting themed stories around at the moment relating to how people are using their time to continue to pursue as many of their regular activities as possible.”
Phil Selby isn’t letting the lockdown get in the way of his golfing.
Phil said many of his golfing colleagues had created backyard courses, “with a mixture of serious intent to practice, and humour.”
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His new but limited golf facilities will give him the opportunity to work on his distance control.
Meanwhile the Olympic flag on the running course is both a bit of fun and a homage to the Olympians living in the valley, and the running track is providing new inspiration for Phil.
The club’s Olympic flag is a bit of fun and inspiration, and a homage to the valley’s Olympians.
“[I] only recently got back into the running after an extended break in the wake of Challenge Wanaka. Great to be back on the road again, and even better that I am starting to get some form and pace back.”
Phil and Robbie said they have appreciated the “great” live online classes provided by their gym, The Fit Collective, during the lockdown.
He will spend time working on his distance control.
Robyn, the club’s ‘chief barista and sommelier’, has been busy making orders to ensure the club is well stocked with coffee beans and wine. The pair thanked the staff at New World Three Parks for doing an “amazing job” over the busy period and providing deliveries. Phil meanwhile has taken on the roles of ‘head chef and greenkeeper’ for the club.
Their adventurous dog hasn’t been forgotten: Robyn and Phil have been granted access to the neighbouring Fork Farm paddocks so Barley won’t be missing out on her walks or bunny chasing opportunities either.
PHOTOS: Phil Selby
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