Quick races to Welsh win
England’s Ben Quick got off to a fast start in his final round to claim the Welsh Youth Open Championship at Whitchurch in Cardiff and make it worthwhile for his family, delaying a holiday.
In the mixed competition, Olivia Lee of Gerrards Cross finished tied third overall on level par and won best female, Ellen Nicholas of Ham Manor was the highest finishing Welsh girl.
Welshpool’s Tomi Bowen came close to a home win finishing second on his own just one shot behind Quick.
Newport’s Ieuan Phillips was in pole position after day one thanks to a second-round 67 before falling away, while Carmarthen’s Jamie Dean went the other way with a final round 66 taking him up to a tied seventh finish.
Exeter student Quick’s family were on their way to Cornwall on holiday when they saw the scores and decided to stay on the M4 to Cardiff instead, getting there in time to see Ben lift the Trophy.
“My Mum, Dad and sister got there after my round which was a really nice surprise, and then they carried on to Cornwall,” said 20-year-old Quick.
“I loved Whitchurch, the greens were absolutely rapid on the final day, you had to hit it straight off the tee but once you were on the fairway it was fine.
“I only played because a friend of mine Owain Taylor lives nearby and said it was a really good event. He even offered to caddy for me, so that worked out very well.
“It was also different having a mixed event, the first I have played in, but it seemed pretty fair so it worked well.
“This is my biggest win so far, I am absolutely buzzing. It was a bit stressful waiting for the final groups and looking at the scores coming in, but it worked out.
“After Exeter, I am hoping to go to America to do a postgraduate course and play golf, with a view to turning professional after that.”
Wales Golf Championships Manager David Wilson was pleased with the way the mixed event worked.
“It was fantastic to evolve this Championship to provide fair and competitive opportunities for young men and women,” he said.
“Whitchurch was in great condition and provided a real challenge to some of the best young players in the UK. The club also helped us run a safe event.”
Quick had an eagle and three birdies in his first six holes to set the platform for his win and a final round 68, playing the second nine holes in level par.
Elliot MacGregor, Burhill, Charlie Forster, North Hants, and Freddie Parlby, Hallowes, all joined Lee in tied third.