Oly Browning scoops BIGGA National Championship 2012
Posted on Wednesday, 10th October 2012
Oly Browning, assistant greenkeeper from Stocks Golf Club in Hertfordshire, has clinched the BIGGA National Championship 2012 sponsored by Charterhouse and Kubota at a sun-drenched Irvine Golf Club.
The 23-year-old scratch handicapper led the field of nearly 70 competitors after an outstanding 71 on the first day, and shot a 75 on the second day to clinch the coveted crown and a prize of £100 by three shots.
He said: "I'm delighted, it's the biggest trophy I've ever won. I kept it on the fairways and didn't take any chances - I only got my driver out three times over the two days. The course was terrific and the company was good too, I had a laugh with all of my playing partners."
Oly edged out Duncan Cairnie from Carnoustie and Gordon Sangster from Cathkin Braes who both finished with a total of 149. Duncan claimed the runner-up spot with a superior second round. Kenneth Mitchell from St Andrews won the BIGGA Challenge Cup with a nett score of 146.
Head greenkeeper Derek Wilson and his team prepared a superb course, and with both rounds played in glorious October sunshine the tournament was a huge success. For much more read a full report in November's Greenkeeper International.
RESULTS
BIGGA CHALLENGE TROPHY (Best gross score over 36 holes)
1) Oly Browning (Stocks) 146 (71, 75)
2) Duncan Cairnie (Carnoustie) 149 (75, 74)
3) Gordon Sangster (Cathkin Braes) 149 (74, 75)
BIGGA CHALLENGE CUP (Best nett score over 36 holes)
1) Kenneth Mitchell (St Andrews) 141 (70, 71)
2) Gary Burgess (Grange Park) 145 (70, 75)
3) George Morgan (The Mendip) 151 (73, 78)
BIGGA CHALLENGE PLATE (Stableford)
Sam Fuller (Lewes)
BIGGA CHALLENGE BOWL (Affiliate)
David Nelson (Nelson & Vecchio)
DAILY HANDICAP - DAY 1
+2 - 5 Gary Burgess (Grange Park) 70
6 - 12 David Nelson (Nelson & Vecchio) 71
13 - 24 John Wilson (Irvine) 73
DAILY HANDICAP - DAY 2
+2 - 5 Kenneth Mitchell (St Andrews) 71
6- 12 Iain Barr (Largs) 72
13 - 24 John Wilson (Irvine) 76