James, 15, bowls to trophy success

FIFTEEN-YEAR-OLD James Smith won one of the major trophies at Royston Golf Club on Sunday. The five handicapper scored a nett 67, three under par to win the Viscount Hampden Bowl, a trophy which has been played every year since being donated to the club

FIFTEEN-YEAR-OLD James Smith won one of the major trophies at Royston Golf Club on Sunday.

The five handicapper scored a nett 67, three under par to win the Viscount Hampden Bowl, a trophy which has been played every year since being donated to the club in 1901.

One of Smith's playing partners, James McKenzie finished third on countback (77-9=68) with Dave Shaw taking the runners-up spot (76-8=68). Steve Rogers (76-7=69) and Nigel Thomas (82-13=69) were the only other players to break par.

Elsewhere, Stuart Phillips equalled the amateur course record in the Men's Thursday Medal, with a scorching back nine of just 29 strokes. However, it was not enough to beat playing partner Ollie Bance.

As a result Phillips (63+3=66) finished third, behind Bance (68-3=65) who had the better back nine over late starter Steve de Fraine (75-10=65).

Frank Calvert won the Saturday Medal to qualify for the Medal Winners Final next month. With the course in excellent condition and hardly a breath of wind, low scores were predicted, however, Calvert's nett 68 from his 11 handicap was enough to secure victory from Simon Clark (89-20=69).

The Ladies September Medal, was won by Jenny Jarvis, who had a two shot cushion over Debbie Pitfield while Alice Lewis won the Alternate Medal on Saturday with a nett 71.

Paula Offer, impressed once more to finish second with Tracey Parsons taking third spot.