Saturday October 21st – John Laing Shield Qualifying Round – Stroke

Players headed to the tee under clear skies and a steady wind blowing from the south-west.  The John Laing Shield, now in its 22nd year is always a closely fought event and this round was no exception.  The incredible spring growth  saw well trimmed but very thick rough and dense fairways; mowing twice a week will be “de rigueur” for the next few weeks at least.  As the round progressed the wind strengthened and moved to the west resulting in some approach shots blowing up and ending well short or flying well over the green; club section proved to be very tricky.  A number of golfers returned good scores and at one stage there  was a three-way count back, until the final group made their way back to the rooms.  On a cool, windy day the results were;

Winner; Bob McLennan – 84/13/71 from Mick Nicholls Snr – 98/25/73, John Laing – 107/33/74, Rob Rea – 92/18/74 & Les Gaunt – 79/5/74

NTPs; 1st – Mick Nicholls Jnr & 15th – Bob McLennan

The Quarter Finals of the John Laing Shield (Handicap Match-play) will be;

1. Bob McLennan Vs 8. Ron Walker

3. John Laing Vs 6. Mal Mottram

2. Mick Nicholls Snr Vs 7. Kev Dunn

4. Les Gaunt Vs 5. Mick Nicholls Jnr