Auchterarder junior golf boost

Oct 1 2010 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

Auchterarder junior golf boost

THE inaugural Auchterarder Golf Club/Blue Group Pro-Am in aid of Auchterarder Junior Golf was a great success.

Twenty teams participated on a day that was blessed with great weather, and a golf course in fantastic condition.

The event started with an exhibition from ‘The Striker’, Paul Barrington, world trick shot champion, who amongst other feats managed to hit shots straight, hooked and faded onto the first green from the tee – with his putter!

The business end of the day saw the top 16 from the Tartan Tour playing for a first prize of £2000.

Given that the pin positions for the day were worthy of the final day’s play at the Open, a 66, three under, captured the top prize.

Chris Kelly of Cawder fended off the challenge of Colin Gillies from Braid Hills and leading money winner, Stephen Gray of Hayston on 67. Self proclaimed ‘best putter in Auchterarder’ and managing secretary of the golf club, David Smith, graciously handed the ‘best putter’ title to Gray, adding: “At least until he leaves town.”

The team event saw the Blue Scotland team captained by tournament sponsor Austin Carey tie with William Hamilton and Son, the latter winning by virtue of the better back nine.

The tournament raised £3000 for the promotion of Junior Golf at Auchterarder.’