Redbourn Golf Club Juniors

Nick Ward wins U14 at The Glen

The 13 year old English player from St Albans claimed his first national title in style, with a stunning 35 foot birdie putt at the 22nd hole to conclude the tussle against Lothian hopeful, Anthony Blaney from Liberton.

Both players had finished tied for the lead after returning 1 under par 69's to force the contest into a play-off in Scotland's youngest age group event. In a battle which tested both the stamina and tenacity of players in front of the galleries, it was the 3 handicapper and current holder of the Hertfordshire Boys U14's Championship who held his nerve after returning to the 18th for a third time today, to clinch the biggest title of his young career.

Commenting after his win, Ward said, "It was absolutely great to come here and to win in a play-off, it was a great way to finish.

With Ward's father anxiously waiting in the galleries, Ward senior added, "I could not watch at the end. I am absolutely over the moon for him, and I am delighted he finished with a birdie but could not tell how long that final putt was as I could not look."

Coached by Caddington Pro, Darren Turner, Ward is looking forward to a well earned rest from his golf, currently bound for a flight home this evening before heading off on a family holiday to Portugal.

With Anthony Blaney settling for a well earned runner up spot, third place went to Ewan Scott from St Andrews, winner of the Paul Gibson Trophy for the leading U12 player in the championship last year at Brunston Castle. Scott carded a level par round of 70 to take the bronze medal.

This year's leading U12 title was awarded to James Wilson from Hilton Park after signing for a 9 over 79.

In the Girls U14 title contest, Lesley Atkins from Minto finished head and shoulders above her rivals for the crown, winning the Caddies Cup and a £25 voucher after returning a gross score of 74. The Hawick player coached by Frank Scott, said after receiving her trophy, "I have only played the course here a few times before so it was amazing to come here and win the title." The 5 handicapper concluded, "I am glad I have another year at this age level, so would like to come back and contest this title again."

North East player Sophie Alexander (Deeside), finished with a gross score of 83 and was awarded the runner up spot based on a better inward half.

In the Girls handicap event, Amelia Taylor from St Anne's Old Links finished in pole position with a leading nett score of 66. Thornton's Nicola Taylor and Clara Young (North Berwick) both finished with nett scores of 71, but Taylor was awarded the second place finish based on a better inward half.