INUVIK
A lot of Inuvik golfers got their first chance to shoot the three new holes at Road's End Golf Course during the Mayor's Classic tournament on Aug. 7 to 9.

Moses Ipana sinks a putt at the second hole on the last day of play during the Mayor's Classic tournament at Road's End Golf Course. - Mark Rieder/NNSL photo

With holes four to six about 80 per cent complete, there was a lot of chatter about what was good and what was tough about the new additions.

During the final round of play on Aug. 9, Nathan Charlton said the water hazard was the most challenging part of the course.

"I was pretty excited to shoot them," he said.

There are plans to expand the course even further in the near future.

"I can't wait for the next three," said Charlton.

Marjorie Baetz said there is a lot of buzz about the additions.

"The new fairway, everybody is raving about that," she said.

Since many people have not had a chance to play the new course because of the weather, there was a moment of surprise for them to discover just how extensive it is.

"The first day, everybody was almost disoriented," said Baetz.

She said that the weather and the new holes were part of the draw for the 13 teams that showed up to this year's event, an increase over last year's attendance levels.

But she didn't rule out the pig roast that the players were supplied with on Aug. 8.

Marty Verbonac said he was looking forward to seeing the finished course.

"It's going to be really nice when it's all done," he said.

He said he was pleased with the level of difficulty of the new holes.

"They're good and challenging, weather dependent," Verbonac said.

He is appreciative of all the work that the volunteers at the golf course have put into it this year.

"I think the course is just fine. Especially considering it's all volunteer work and nobody is making anything off of it, I think the course is in great shape," Verbonac said.

Moses Ipana was glad that the weather held and that there was a good turnout.

"There's a lot more people out this time. A lot better weather. It's nice to see the community out," he said. "The organizers did a great job."

Ipana said he looks forward to the Mayor's Classic becoming the premiere tournament of the season.

"Hopefully it gets even more popular as time goes on," he said.

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