Fixtures/Results

On a bright, warm, early spring day 36 professionals from throughout Devon gathered at Stover Golf Club for the Final Winter Order of Merit Event. The golf course which has undergone significant changes and improvements, was in excellent condition even after the recent heavy rains. The addition of several new lakes has added considerably to the challenge of this tight tree lined course.

Winning score on the day was two under par 67. Tied on this score were two friends and four ball partners Robin Goodey from Teignmouth and Barry Austin from Downes Crediton. Both players have contrasting styles. Robin whose workman like game and determined attitude have produced many great scores over the years, bounced back from a disastorous four putt on the long par 3 fifth hole. He responded superbly with three consecutive birdies to get his round back on track. He continued to play steady golf and was pleased to register a long overdue win. Robin who is Secretary of the Devon PGA puts a huge amount of time and effort into running the events, and with entries rising each season, the Devon Pro scene is perhaps the strongest in the Region.

Also on 67 was the hugely talented Barry Austin. Barry tends to play some of his best golf when the sun shines. Yesterday he felt that his rhythm was particularly good and his confidence with the driver really returned. He drove the ball better than for some months, huge distances with a controlled fade. This meant that he was able to throw his short iron approaches at the tight pin positions. Barry commented `It was great playing with Robin and Sean, as we seemed to feed off each other, and I think our better ball was something like 15 under Par`.

Four players were tied on third place with level par 69's. Many players were caught out by Stover's tough "sting in the tale" last three holes. Sean Mason returned to near his best form but was disappointed with a couple of back nine double bogeys which ruined an otherwise excellent card. Sean, last year's West Region Number 1 has been working hard on his game this winter trying to incorportate some swing changes. These now seem to be bedding down as he prepares for an important season which includes the chance to compete against Europe's finest players' at the PGA Championship at Wentworth.

Ashley Moon finished disappointingly with two bogeys but was otherwise pleased with his overall game. Mark Taylor who has struggled recently was pleased to return to some good form as he continues to work on improving his game.

Also on 69 was the season's most consistent and impressive player. Paul Hendriksen from Fingle Glen. Paul was defending his lead in the OOM and played superbly on the front nine to be out in 31. He was slightly disappointed to finish with two bogeys, but none the less happy with his winter season's work.

The day's event was sponsored by leading golf company Titleist who have supported many of the Devon Pro's over the last few years, currently six of the top ten in the OOM use Titleist equipment and many more play the Titleist ball.

Devon PGA Captain Iain Parker Royal North Devon, thanked everybody at Stover for their hospitality particularly secretary Will Hendry who accepted a cheque for £72 to help their Junior Development Programme at the club, and head greenkeeper Ralf Law and his team who have made Stover one of the most attractive courses in South Devon.