The Faldo Junior Tour returned for its first UK event of the 2023 season this week at Brocket Hall. The Brocket Hall event has become synonymous with the start of many young golfers’ seasons, and this year was no exception for the full 156 player field.
After a smooth Round 1, Round 2 was interrupted by the early morning frost, however thanks to the efficient greenkeeping team at Brocket Hall, 50 minutes later the first tee shots were hit, and the second round was able to get underway on the Palmerston Course. The highlight of Round 2 came from Romford Golf Club’s Henry Linley, who shot an exceptional -5 under par to close the distance on Colchester’s Oliver Baker to one shot for the overall lead.
Despite charges from Monty Holcombe and Noah Cambridge, Linley’s final round one under par managed to keep the challengers at bay and secure the Boys 18 and Under category.
Norwood Park Golf Club and Girls 21 and Under leader Madeline Smith looked to improve on her score yet again on day 3, with Mill Green’s Zainab Jeppe close behind. Closing with a level par 73 got the job done for Smith, and will now head to her first Grand Final at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club in November.
In the Girls 16 and Under Category, Thorndon Park’s Zara Gardam lead was cut short by a steady Lulu Leetham. As the girls came down the 18th hole, Zara’s one shot lead was threatened after a fantastic chip by Lulu to set-up a birdie putt to force a play-off. It was to be, and with momentum on her side, Buckingham’s Leetham won the Girls 16 and Under category, with a Birdie on the first extra hole.
However, it was Paul Collington who stole the show with three exceptional rounds, finishing with a bogey free final round 3 under par which secured the Boys 18 and Under category and the Overall trophy.
The Faldo Junior Tour returns to The Astbury (Shropshire) next on the 30th of May, where players will compete again for their chance to play at the Grand Final at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club, UAE.
Leading final scores and qualifiers from the Faldo Junior Tour Brocket Hall Championship:
Overall Winner:
Paul Collington (-5)
Male 18 and Under:
Paul Collington (-5)
Noah Cambridge (-1)
Henry Drake (-1)
Male 16 and Under:
Henry Linley (-3)
Monty Holcombe (-2)
Ronnie Groves (-2)
