By Jonathan Leask  January 28, 2012

Ashburton Golf Club Patron Bill Hetrick showed the rest of his club he still has what it takes this week.

The 83-year-old shot his age off the stick on Wednesday, considered quite the feat among golfing circles.
"I don't know what all the fuss has been about," Hetrick said.
"I just feel lucky that I'm still able to be out there playing at my age, never mind the score."
Last year he had an 83 but at age 82 it just wasn't the same. In the past few months, he has had a few 84s and 85s but finally hit the magic number.
"I was playing with a good group and I think that playing in that sort of company makes you lift to play to their standard and that got me there.
"I hit 45 on the first nine and then 38 on the second so on my 19 handicap I had a net 64."
The round of 83 is part of a purple patch Hetrick is currently enjoying, his wife Joan explained.
"Last Saturday on club opening day we won the mixed pairs," she said.
"He played up at Methven in the veterans on Monday and was a joint winner and then had the 83 on Wednesday."
Joan is no stranger to success on the course hitting four holes-in-one.
"Bill hasn't had one yet but I'm hoping he will but getting 83 is just as impressive."
He has been playing golf since he was 22 when an injury sidelined him permanently from rugby.
He has been a member of the Ashburton Golf Club since 1967 becoming an esteemed member over the 45 years.
"Golf is a great game that you can play as a young fella and then continue playing for as long you're able to walk a bit and swing a club."

Pictured: Hitting 83 at 83, Bill Hetrick may have shot his age but he is just happy enough to still be playing.

Photo Johnny Houston