New Zealand and Australian Pair Claim Victory at the 2026 Adelaide Marriott Golf Invitational
Five outstanding South Australian golf courses provide the backdrop for an unforgettable golfing experience.
ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA – The 2026 Adelaide Marriott Golf Invitational has concluded in spectacular fashion, with Eleanor Hodson (New Plymouth, New Zealand) and Barbara Hayden (Burleigh Heads, Australia) taking home the honours after an outstanding week of golf across South Australia's premier courses.
The winning pair finished three shots clear of runners-up Christine and Paul Mackenzie, representing Matamata and Martinborough in New Zealand.
The Invitational attracted 40 golfers representing 23 different golf clubs from across Australia and New Zealand, bringing together a wonderful mix of competition, camaraderie, travel and exceptional golfing experiences.
Five outstanding golf courses
A major highlight of the Invitational was the opportunity to play five of South Australia's most celebrated golf courses, each offering its own unique character, history and challenge.
The golfing itinerary included:
Royal Adelaide Golf Club – Officially opened at its Seaton location in 1906, Royal Adelaide is one of Australia's most historic and highly regarded links courses. Its design history includes the influence of legendary British golf course architect Dr Alister MacKenzie, who visited in 1926 and recommended incorporating the spectacular natural sand dunes into the layout.
The Grange Golf Club – East and West Courses – The West Course dates back to 1927, while the East Course opened in 1967. Both have undergone significant redevelopment, with the West Course redesigned under Mike Clayton Golf Designs in 2007 and the East Course comprehensively redeveloped by Greg Norman Golf Course Design, officially reopening in 2013. Together, they provide two distinctive championship golfing experiences.
Glenelg Golf Club – Established in 1927, Glenelg has a rich golfing heritage, with its original layout designed by Herbert (Cargie) Rymill. The course was subsequently redesigned by renowned Australian architect Vern Morcom and further enhanced through redevelopment by Neil Crafter and Bob Tuohy. Its distinctive revetted-edge bunkers and links-style character make it a memorable golfing challenge.
Links Lady Bay – Located on the spectacular Fleurieu Peninsula at Normanville, Links Lady Bay opened in 1998. Designed by Australian golfing great Jack Newton, together with Graeme Grant and John Spencer, the course offers a memorable coastal golfing experience, with natural undulations, sandy terrain and sweeping views.
The combination of historic championship links, modern course design and spectacular coastal scenery showcased the remarkable diversity of South Australia's golfing landscape.
Beyond the fairways
The Invitational was about much more than golf.
Participants also enjoyed time exploring South Australia's renowned food and wine regions, including a memorable visit to Seppeltsfield in the Barossa Valley and an experience at Maggie Beer's Farm.
These experiences provided a wonderful opportunity to showcase the state's outstanding regional produce, hospitality and tourism attractions. With 40 golfers travelling from across Australia and New Zealand, the event once again demonstrated the appeal of combining world-class golf with the exceptional lifestyle experiences South Australia has to offer. Hosted by PaR nz Golfing Holidays.
Looking ahead to 2027
With the 2026 Adelaide Marriott Golf Invitational now complete, anticipation is already building for the next event.
Details of the 2027 Adelaide Marriott Golf Invitational will be announced soon.
Watch this space!
Comments