Junior golfers shine in inaugural event in Gunnedah

Golfers from 8 to 17 years of age converged at the Gunnedah course last Sunday for the inaugural Junior Western Open event.

Nineteen golfers took part in the 18-hole Stroke event while another four competed in a nine-hole Stroke.

There were seven golfers from the host club and seven from the Armidale Golf Club, while other competitors came from Tamworth, Werris Creek, Uralla and Inverell.

Armidale’s Isaac Riches was the overall winner with a one-over par score of 71 off-the-stick, while fellow Armidale golfer Archie Piddington was next best with 81.

Two other Armidale golfers – Darcy Lawlor (14 years and over) and Clancy Lawlor (13 years and under) – had the best off-the-stick scores in their respective age groups, with Clancy winning on a countback from Gunnedah’s Lincoln Ross.

Gunnedah’s Jack Fouracre had the best nett score, with 64.

In the nine-hole event, the winner was Cody Smith of Gunnedah while only one shot separated the runner-up from the last placegetter.

Gunnedah golf pro Tom Major said the event was a huge success with lots of positive comments regarding the course and how good the event was.

“It’s great to have something for the juniors to play in, and showcase their skills in a regional tournament,” he said.

“I hope next year we can build on this event and try to double the entries.”

RESULTS

Gross winner Isaac Riches 71, r/up Archie Piddington 81;

Nett winner Jack Fouracre 64, r/up Harper Grove 68;

14 and over gross winner Darcy Lawlor 77, r/up Jake Inman 82;

14 and over nett winner Ben Grosser 69, r/up Noah Kelly 70;

13 and under gross winner Clancy Lawlor 83 on a c/b from r/up Lincoln Ross;

13 and under nett winner Aldo Arzal 67, r/up Jett Williams 69.