Fixtures/Results

The Final event in the Devon County PGA calendar year was played at East Devon last Thursday, the golf course was as usual in superb condition, and all the Pro`s were full of praise for the set up, and course improvements, carried out in the last few years, by Head Greenkeeper Paul Newcome.

The weather on the day was excellent with little wind and no rain, East Devon though even on a favourable day is a great test of golf, with a number of `bear trap` holes, it also tests the short game to the limit, especially when the pins are tucked away.

The winning score was an excellent 66 by the West Region No 1 Chris Gill from Exeter, Chris has played some great golf over the past season`s, but is arguably at the height of his powers right now.
He has really dedicated himself to the game and recently has been working with a sports psychologist, in a very positive way. As most golfers both Pro or Amateur will know, staying calm and focused on the course is vital for long term success.

Chris was in fact 2 over par after 8 holes but then went on a run of birdies on 9,10,11,12, two more birdies on 15 where he hit the green on the par four with his drive, and a chip in on 18, after an indifferent approach, meant that he signed for a superb 66, and victory by 3 shots.

The rest of the Devon Professional`s will now have to raise their game to stay in touch with Gill in the next 6 winter medal events.

In second place on his own, was the `Vastly Experienced` Cliff Strange, Cliff has had a tough time over the last few years, with illness and more recently injury, so it was great to see him fighting fit, and playing his best golf again.

Cliff commented. " With Gilly playing so well, the young guys in the County have a great target to aim at, if any of our players want to make it to the top of the game, they know who they have to beat."

In third place was `local` Kevin Harper who has now started playing regularly in the Medal`s and is making an immediate impact.

The Order Of Merit is really taking shape now and with the season at its halfway point Sean Mason holds a 4 point lead over Gill with Paul Hendriksen just a further 4.5 points adrift. Again it look`s to be an exciting fight to become Devon`s No 1 player this season.

Robin Goodey thanked East Devon, for staging the event at a venue the Pro`s love, and presented the club with a cheque to help with their junior programme at this progressive club.