August 2017

07 Aug 2017 – Royal Melbourne Golf Club

RMGC member Tony Rule wins President’s Trophy with a “sandy 3”

This year’s President’s Trophy was played at its regular venue, Royal Melbourne GC. Good entries were received, but some late cancellations saw a reduced field of 18 brave the wintry conditions to play their 9 holes with just seven clubs in the bag under modified 1950 rules.

At lunch, the top four nett qualifiers for the sudden death matchplay were determined with Virginia Gorrell the clear top qualifier followed by RMGC member Tony Rule.

Due to multiple ties, a countback and much card checking, the two remaining players were decided in very new member Grant McKay and Richard Fellner, a qualifier in 2016.

The matches began on the first tee of the East Course. Richard defeated Virginia on the first playoff hole followed by Tony defeating Grant also on their first hole. Finalists Tony and Richard halved their first hole. Then, on the second hole, Richard putting for a four had an agonising lip out for 5. Tony made 5 as well, so they moved to the Par 3.

After their tee shots, both players were short and bunkered. Richard was away, air-mailed his shot, yet was saved by some tea-tree at back of the green. Still away for the next shot, he played a great downhill chip to the green.

Tony then made a good, long carry bunker shot to the green, yet still had some work to do with the putter. After a quick read, as the rain was getting heavier and the green wetter, Tony sank a 30 footer for a “sandy 3” and sealed the win.

Players and spectators returned to the clubhouse for presentation, photos and refreshments

GSA thanks the Royal Melbourne Golf Club staff for their assistance and wonderful hospitality making for a very enjoyable day.

The clubs ongoing generosity for allowing us to hold this event every year is much appreciated.

Finalists  Grant McKay, Tony Rule, Virginia Gorrell and Richard Fellner

A wet but exciting finish between finalists      Richard and Tony