- Robyn Boniface retires after an impressive 52-year career, leaving a lasting impact on golf.
- She led Southland to numerous victories and captained New Zealand’s Seniors Team four times.
- Robyn plans to continue playing golf locally, maintaining her passion and challenging herself.
After 52 years of unparalleled dedication to the sport, Robyn has made the significant decision to retire from her representative golf career. Her extraordinary achievements and cherished memories have left an indelible mark on the golfing community in Southland and across New Zealand.
A Lifetime of Notable Achievements
Robyn Boniface’s golfing journey is marked by an impressive list of accomplishments. She competed in 27 Interprovincials and 16 Masters while managing the Interprovincial Team for 14 years. Among her many achievements are leading her team to the Interprovincial semi-finals twice and securing victory in the Masters six times in seven years. She also claimed the individual Masters title seven times and had the honour of captaining the New Zealand Seniors Team in the Trans Tasman Trophy on four occasions.
Robyn’s success extends beyond team events, having won the Junior National, New Zealand Amateur, and New Zealand Seniors titles—an elite trifecta that few have achieved.
Cherished Memories and Highlights
Reflecting on her journey, Robyn treasures the friendships she has made through team events. “The friendships, some lifelong, made through team events have been a true highlight,” she says. Her career is dotted with remarkable moments, including reaching the semi-finals in the Interprovincials and captaining her province and the national team, roles she holds close to her heart. “It was an honour to captain my province on many occasions, but the highest privilege and honour came when asked to captain the N.Z. Seniors Team,” Robyn recounts.
Passion for the Game and Future Plans
Robyn’s passion for golf remains strong, even as she steps back from representative play. “Golf is a large part of my life obviously, and I intend to continue playing, mostly within my province,” she shares. She looks forward to participating in country club tournaments and continuing her volunteer work at her local club. Robyn also has her sights set on maintaining a low handicap and possibly achieving the remarkable feat of “shooting her age.”
A Legacy to Inspire
Robyn’s retirement from representative golf marks the end of an era, yet her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Her journey, from playing as a junior to representing New Zealand as a senior 40 years later, showcases the passion and longevity that golf can inspire.
As she embarks on this new chapter, Robyn’s contributions to golf in Southland and New Zealand will be remembered with deep admiration. Her career is a testament to dedication, excellence, and the enduring joy that comes from a lifelong love of the game. Here’s to Robyn—a true champion, both on and off the green.