Feasey Conquers Scorching Heat to Win Second Aussie Crown

The scorching heat that had been building over the weekend finally reached its boiling point on the final day of the Australian Disc Golf Championships at Rathmines Park, near Newcastle, New South Wales. The temperature soared to 44°C (111°F), but it was Simon Feasey from New Zealand who remained cool and composed under pressure.

Feasey had been forced to withdraw from last year's championships due to a flu bug and extreme heat, but he was determined to triumph this time around. He faced stiff competition from some of the best players in Australia and New Zealand, including Jordan Wheeler and Chris Finn.

The 8th Aussie championships saw a mix of seasoned veterans and young up-and-comers vying for top honors. Neil Roberts, the event TD, had envisioned Rathmines Park as the perfect venue, with its wooded parkland, tight lines, and water hazards providing a challenging course for even the most skilled players.

On day 1, Tim Marchbank set the pace with a sizzling 56, but it was Jordan Wheeler who stole the spotlight with an incredible 59. The young Perth player's inexperience seemed to be a non-factor as he remained in contention throughout the weekend. Chris Hill also made an impression with a 61, showcasing his skills and earning himself a spot among the top contenders.

The major movers on day 2 were Feasey and Sean Kapalko, both of whom threw 59's to move up a place. The heat was taking its toll on some players, but the top players refused to let it get in their way. "Funny thing about the weekend was that I was lacking in self-confidence," Feasey commented later. "I really had to dig deep at a couple of crucial times to come through."

The final day saw temperatures rise even higher, and Chris Finn finally made his move with a 58. The five-man final group consisted of Feasey, Wheeler, Marchbank, Kapalko, and Finn, with only two throws separating the leaders.

In the end, it was Feasey's experience that proved to be the deciding factor. He maintained a narrow lead throughout the final nine holes and ultimately secured his second Aussie crown by just one throw over Chris Finn. Jordan Wheeler took third place, while Sean Kapalko struggled with heat stress and dropped out of contention.

The women's division also saw some thrilling competition, with Cassie Sweeten and Sally Hill fighting neck and neck all weekend. In the end, Sweeten emerged victorious, winning her fourth national title by three throws.

In other divisions, Kaspar Carr-Howard battled it out in a sudden-death playoff against Ross Davis for the advanced title. The drama continued as they eventually played 8 holes before Carr-Howard emerged victorious. Bruce McNaughton and Bon Gentil dominated their respective age-protected divisions, while Toby Gentil and Sarah Loft took top honors in the junior and intermediate women's categories.

As the final presentations were made and the competitors departed, a dramatic thunderstorm rolled in, bringing much-needed rain to the parched course. The event had been a resounding success, with Neil Roberts' decision to move the championships to tee-times and hold it over three days proving to be an inspired one. The Australian Disc Golf scene continues to grow, with more players from around the world considering a trip Down Under for their next disc golf vacation.

The 2015 Australian Championships will take place on November 20-22 at Poimena reserve in Tasmania, considered one of the best disc golf courses in the world. For more information and updates, visit the official Australian Disc Golf website.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/blazing-rounds-blistering-heat