In 2017, we published an article about ‘Golfing in Antarctica‘ and how The Antarctic OPEN was born.
However, we were thrilled when the article was picked up by none other than the actual organiser of the unique golfing event, who got in touch to tell us how it happened.
In her own words, MaryAnn Sullivan tells the story…
“As a Recreation Specialist passionate about outdoor education, wilderness medicine, and adventure sports, I never imagined my career would lead me to organise a golf tournament in one of the most remote places on Earth – Antarctica.”
My journey to the southernmost continent began with a lifelong dream.
After years of running rivers, scaling peaks, and exploring the wilderness, I landed a position in 1994 with the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) department through the U.S. Navy.
Arriving during the Winfly season – when the constant sunset painted the landscape – I joined a team of 200 to prepare McMurdo Station for its busy main body season.
The responsibilities at McMurdo Station were as vast as the icy landscape itself. Beyond managing traditional activities like Casino Night, bowling, and holiday parties, I introduced new programs to enhance life at “Mac Town.”
Amid all this, a U.S. Commander challenged me to organize a golf tournament – a seemingly impossible task in Antarctica.
Golf on ice? Really? With zero prior golf experience, I set out to turn this ambitious idea into reality and The Antarctic OPEN was conceived.
The first hurdle was finding golf equipment. Colin from MWR in Christchurch, New Zealand, generously donated golf clubs and balls. The balls had to be spray-painted for visibility – a surprisingly tricky task.
The ozone scientists’ balloon launching site became the perfect spot for our nine-hole course, which we aptly named Ice Hole Pines.
Getting the equipment to McMurdo was another challenge, but having the Commander’s support ensured space on the cargo planes.
On a clear, calm day in 1995, participants from across the station – scientists, pilots, electricians, galley staff, and more – gathered for the inaugural Ice Hole Pines tournament.
The event brought the community together in a way only golf can.
Thirty years later, the names of the participants and the scores have faded, but the memories remain vivid.
The photos I’ve saved remind me of that extraordinary day when golf united a community at the bottom of the world.
By MaryAnn Sullivan
HEADER IMAGE - Mistwood GC
Courtesy of Raymond Hearn, Course Architect www.rhgd.com
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