The Antarctic OPEN 1995 by MaryAnn Sullivan

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McMurdo Station, Antarctica – Ice Hole Pines Golf Course est.1995 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 atcul organiser of the unique golfing event, who got in touch to tell… Read more The post The Antarctic OPEN 1995 by MaryAnn Sullivan appeared first on Golf Blog & News | Course Reviews & Rules | The Social Golfer Limited.

McMurdo Station, Antarctica – Ice Hole Pines Golf Course est.1995

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.”

From Recreation Specialist to Antarctic Dream

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.

Breathing New Life into Recreation at McMurdo

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.”

Ice cave tours allowed residents to explore breathtaking blue-hued ice formations.
A rock climbing wall brought a much-needed outlet for adventure enthusiasts.
Revamping the community library transformed a neglected space into a hub for book clubs and relaxation.
Annual events, like the Scott Hut Race, gained traction with sponsorships from Runner’s World and Power Bar.

A Commander’s Unusual Request: Golf on Ice

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.

Overcoming Challenges to Create Ice Hole Pines (aka The Antarctic OPEN)

Sourcing Equipment

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.

Choosing the Course

The ozone scientists’ balloon launching site became the perfect spot for our nine-hole course, which we aptly named Ice Hole Pines.

Logistics in Antarctica

Getting the equipment to McMurdo was another challenge, but having the Commander’s support ensured space on the cargo planes.

A Day to Remember: Antarctica’s First Golf Tournament

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.