Shooting a score lower than your age is every golfer’s dream, but for Carlyle Gardens Retirement Village resident, Ernie Nankivell, 89, it’s just another day on the course.
Village Manager Phill Sellwood said age might be on Ernie’s side, but beating his age 25 times in the past year and nearly 40 times during his lifetime is an enviable feat.
“Golf is a popular pastime for many of the retirees living at Carlyle Gardens,” Phill said.
“I enjoy golf for the same reasons as our residents.
“It’s a great way to stay active, provides a stimulating challenge and there’s a beneficial social aspect to the game.”
Ernie and many of the other residents can often be found playing a round at the picturesque Bargara Golf Club that is just a few minutes from the village.
In 2016 Ernie fired an amazing 79, his lowest recorded score, to beat his age by 10 shots!
“I love golf and bought my first set of clubs when I was 40, but wish I had started playing a lot earlier,” Ernie said.
Ernie has certainly made up for lost time by nailing two holes-in-one at two different golf clubs, Bargara and Yeppoon.
“A hole-in-one is exciting, but golf is a game of persistence,” Ernie said.
Fellow resident and golf enthusiast Alan Almond said that shooting your age is one of the finest achievements in golf.
“It’s extraordinary! I wonder if anyone else in Australia has managed to shoot their age 25 times in just one year?” Alan said.
Phill Sellwood was pleased that Carlyle Gardens Retirement Village and RetireAustralia would continue its annual support for Bargara Golf Club’s veterans and their championship events.
“Veteran golf provides an opportunity for seniors to compete and enjoy the company of like-minded people,” Phill said.
“Many of our residents are avid golfers and living at Carlyle Gardens means that they have more time to devote to leisurely pursuits.”
