ALL THE LATEST NEWS ON AMATEUR GOLF IN AYRSHIRE

Monday, April 24, 2006

AYRSHIRE FOURBALL - First round of 2006 competition completed.

The first round of the 2006 Ayrshire Fourball was completed this weekend.

Allan Smeaton and Andrew Gibson (Ayr Seafield) won 3 & 2 against Jim Mckinnon and Robert Gillon (Alton) to secure a second round match at home to Alan Ross and Charlie Brown (Crosshouse), whilst the same winning margin over W. Arnott and J. Arnott (Annanhill) gave Ian Murray and Tom Bell (Troon Welbeck) a second round home tie against A & D. Murdoch (Brunston Castle).

A comprehensive 6 & 5 win on their visit to James Philip and Johnny Graham (Drongan) gave David Muir and Murray Pringle (Muirkirk) a second round tie at home against Robert Gilchrist and Stephen Wozencroft (Chase).

E. McFadden & F. Greer (St. Meddans) had a walkover against Innes Anderson & Jeff Jack (Skelmorlie) and now play host to J. Boyd & G. Wiggett (Routenburn) in round 2.

In the remaining two first round matches, Ian Yates & Derek Brown (Belleisle)had a narrow 1 hole victory over Tony Murphy and Bruce Dunbar (CAAGS) to secure a second round match against Adam Cairns and Clark Robertson (Troon Portland), whilst John Houston and Cameron Ross (Caprington) beat Pat Johnstone and Peter Acavicis (Irvine CSS) by 4 & 3 to set up a second round tie against Andrew Scanlon and Alec Hughes (Auchenharvie).

The revised draw for the second round is :-

West Kilbride Vs. Durward
Ayr Seafield Vs. Crosshouse
Troon Welbeck Vs. Brunston castle
Turnberry Vs. Prestwick St. Cuthbert
Ardeer Vs. Ayr Carrick
Muirkirk Vs. Chase
Doon Valley Vs. Maybole
Irvine Ravenspark Vs. Kilbirnie Place
Troon St. Meddans Vs. Largs Routenburn
Prestwick St. Nicholas Vs. Tam O' Shanter
Ayr Belleisle Vs. Troon Portland
Caprington Vs. Auchenharvie
Kilmarnock Barassie Vs. Ballochmyle
Ayr Dalmilling Vs. Glacier
North Beach Vs. Moorpark
Malletsheugh Vs Loudoun

Second round ties are due to be completed by 28th May 2006.

AYRSHIRE MATCHPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP - Draw for 2006 competition

The order of play for the 2006 Ayrshire Matchplay Championship, to be held from 1st to 4th May at Troon Portland, was confirmed at the conclusion of the Strokeplay Championship on Sunday.

With some of the leading scorers unavailable for the matchplay event, the qualifying score for the matchplay was 152.

The order of play for the first round, on Monday 1st May is :-

1700 - Brian Moore (Largs)
Vs.
Ian Walker (Brunston castle)

1706 - Tony Fraser (Annanhill)
Vs.
George Robertson (Irvine Ravenspark)

1712 - Tommy McInally (Loudoun)
Vs.
C. Mcgowan (Troon Welbeck)

1718 - John Cairney (Irvine Ravenspark)
Vs.
Craig McLaughlin (Largs)

1724 - Barry Crawford (West Kilbride)
Vs.
Alan McLean (Kilbirnie Place)

1730 - Tommy Loy (Ballochmyle)
Vs.
Robert McKnight (Kilmarnock Barassie)

1736 - Craig Hamilton (Ballochmyle)
Vs.
Gary Bryden (Girvan)

1742 - Alastair Leggate (Kilmarnock Barassie)
Vs.
Neil Black (Caprington)
2006 Ayrshire Strokeplay Champion - STEVEN McEWAN (Kilmarnock Barassie) Posted by Picasa

AYRSHIRE STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP - Steven McEwan secures 2006 County title

Steven McEwan (Kilmarnock Barassie) secured the 2006 Ayrshire Strokeplay Championship, on Sunday 23rd April, over his home course, with a three stroke winning margin over Brian Moore (Largs).

After the morning round, McEwan shared 4th place with Kevin Fergusson (Prestwick St. Cuthbert), their level par returns of 72 only being bettered by John Cairney (Irvine Ravenspark) and two former Ayrshire Boys Champions, Alastair Leggate (Kilmarnock Barassie) and Craig Hamilton (Ballochmyle).

In the afternoon, Brian Moore (Largs) returned a commendable 3 under par 69 to add to his morning 74 for a 36 hole total of 143, but the only player to better his afternoon effort was Scottish Boys Strokeplay champion McEwan, his 4 under par score of 68 giving him a total of 140 and the 2006 title.

Kilmarnock Barassie Vice Captain Bob Pollock presented prizes to the succesful competitors at the conclusion of the event.

LEADING SCORES

140 - S. McEwan (Kilmarnock Barassie) 72-68
143 - B. Moore (Largs) 74-69
145 - B. Crawford (West Kilbride) 74-71
C. Hamilton (Ballochmyle) 71-74
147 - R. Dixon (Kilmarnock Barassie) 75-72
148 - T. McInally (Loudoun) 74-74
K. Fergusson (Prestwick St. Cuthbert) 72-76
J. Cairney (Irvine Ravenspark) 71-77
A. Leggate (Kilmarnock Barassie) 71-77
149 - T. Loy (Ballochmyle) 77-72
T. Fraser (Annanhill) 76-73
150 - G. Robertson (Irvine Ravenspark) 76-74
R. McKnight (Kilmarnock Barassie) 76-74
N. Black (Kilmarnock Barassie) 75-75
C. McLaughlin (Largs) 75-75
151 - A. Connery (Irvine Ravenspark) 77-74
C. McGowan (Troon Welbeck) 77-74
152 - G. Bryden (Girvan) 80-72
A. McLean (Kilbirnie Place) 80-72
I. Walker (Brunston Castle) 76-76
S. Wallace (Prestwick St. Cuthbert) 76-76
153 - G. Gimson (Prestwick St. Cuthbert) 81-72
J. McCormack (Dalmilling) 78-75
A. Dickie (Kilmarnock Barassie) 75-78

The CSS for both rounds remained unchanged at 74

SGU JUNIOR TOUR - Michael Stewart best in second event of the season

Michael Stewart (Troon Welbeck) shared the honours in the second SGU Junior Tour event, held at North Berwick on Sunday 23rd April 2006.

In blustery morning conditions it was James Byrne (Banchory) who posted the best score of the first round with 71, which he matched in the calmer afternoon conditions to head the field with Stewart, who followed his morning 73 with a best of the day 69 in round 2, and a 142 total.

Of the other Ayrshire players in the invited field, Kyle Smith securesd 6th place, Cameron Gray (West Kilbride) was 7th equal, John Shanks (Ardeer) and Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie)were placed 12th equal, with Jamie Mackay (Kilmarnock Barassie) in 17th place.

Leading Scores

Tom Spencer (Inchmarlo) - 71- 71 = 142
Michael Stewart (Troon Welbeck) - 73 - 69 - 142
James Byrne (Banchory) - 74 - 69 = 143

Other Ayrshire scores

Kyle Smith (Kilmarnock Barassie) - 77 - 71 = 148
Cameron Gray (West Kilbride) - 75 - 75 = 150
John Shanks (Ardeer) - 75 - 76 = 151
Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie) - 75 - 76 = 151
Jamie MacKay (Kilmarnock Barassie) - 76 - 76 = 152

Friday, April 21, 2006

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS' SCOTTISH CHAMPIONSHIP - Callum Nicol brings title to Ayrshire

CALLUM NICOL of Prestwick Golf Club shot an eagle and 11 birdies over the final 36 holes to win the BAE Systems Young Professionals' Scottish championship by three shots this week, with a 14-under-par total of 266 at Forres Golf Club.

Nicol, who comes from Irvine and played his junior golf in Ayrshire as a member of Prestwick St. Nicholas, improved by one stroke with every round to win the £1,000 first prize.

Former winners of the event, which was previously called the Scottish assistants' championship include Paul Lawrie, Alastair Forsyth, Fraser Mann, David Huish and Norman Wood

LEADING SCORES (course par 70).

266 C Nicoll (Prestwick) 68 67 66 65
269 M Loftus (Cowglen) 70 64 70 65
276 G Lornie (Aspire Golf Centre) 70 70 64 72
277 G Duncan (Westin Turnberry) 73 68 68 68
278 N Murray (Cruden Bay) 70 70 70 68
279 S Hicks (Whitecraigs) 74 70 69 66
280 M Finlayson (Edzell) 70 71 72 67
280 G Rankin (Stirling) 70 70 70 70
280 C Russell (Dunbar) 69 66 74

Thursday, April 20, 2006

AYRSHIRE GOLF ASSOCIATION - Yearbook launch this weekend


The 2006 Ayrshire Golf Association yearbook will be available free through member clubs from this weekend onwards.

The yearbook has a comprehensive review of the 2005 seasons county events, a club directory page and list of local and national fixtures for 2006.

The Ayrshire Golf Association would like to thank the publishers of the yearbook, D & M Journals, and the advertiser who made the production of the yearbook possible.

Tuesday, April 18, 2006

AYRSHIRE CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS - first round matches completed in 2006 competition

The first round of the 2006 Ayrshire Champion Of Champions has been completed.

G. Stuart (Braehead), John Sloan (Doon Valley), J. Philip (Drongan) and Stephen McBlain (St. Cuthbert) were all awarded walkovers, against Ronnie McLellan (Turnberry), Gavin lawrie (St. Nicholas), Kevin Lammie (Troon Portland) and G. Hamilton (Glacier) respectively.

In the other outstanding first round matches, 2005 finalist Tony Fraser (Annanhill) beat D. Tweddell (North Beach) 3 & 2 whilst Alan Harrington (Routenburn) beat D. Martin (Alton) by 6 & 5.

With Brian Moore (Largs) already through to round 3, the revised Second round draw is :-

G. Stuart (Braehead) Vs. G. Bettany (Saxone)
A. Scanlon (Auchenharvie) Vs. T. Loy (Ballochmyle)
J. Sloan (Doon Valley) Vs. D. Hollingsworth (CAA)
J. Philip (Drongan) Vs. S. White (Girvan)
H. Thomson (Irvine) Vs. D. Robertson (Crosshouse)
S. McBlain (St. Cuthbert) Vs. N. McCormack (New Cumnock)
C. Harkins (Ayr Belleisle) Vs. P. Johnstone (Irvine No. 1)
R. Dixon (Kilmarnock Barassie) Vs. C. Craig (Troon Welbeck)
S. Cox (Loudoun) Vs. A. Stewart Jr. (Stewarton)
D. Brackenridge (Dalmilling) Vs. W. Blair (St. Meddans)
J. Brydon (Skelmorlie) Vs. J. Shanks (Ardeer)
A. Fraser (Annanhill) Vs. R. Paterson (Moorpark)
S. Bolland (Tam O Shanter) Vs. M. Pennycott (Corrie)
A. Harrington (Routenburn) Vs. W. Murdoch (Ayr Carrick)
J. Duff (West Kilbride) Vs. G. Robertson (Ravenspark)

The second round ties are due to be completed by 21st May 2006

AYRSHIRE FOURBALL - Turnberry secure second round place

Ronnie McLellan and Tom Bennett of Turnberry enjoyed a 4 & 3 win at home, against Kenneth McGill and Richard Rawding of Wallacetown, in the first round of the 2006 Ayrshire Fourball competition.

McLellan, a former Club Champion of Prestwick St. Cuthbert and Bennett, who is still a member there, now play host to Claud and Tom Gerrish of the St. Cuthbert club in round 2.

Monday, April 17, 2006

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE - Kilmarnock Barassie lead qualifiers for Wallace Thornton competition

Kilmarnock (Barassie) lead the 10 teams who qualified for the 2006 Wallace Thornton Trophy competition during the Ayrshire Boys Team Championship at Caprington on Sunday 16th April.

Barassie, the trophy holders, will contest Section A, alongside Largs, Loudoun and the two Prestwick Clubs, St. Cuthbert and St. Nicholas.

Section B will be contested by the 2005 runners up in the event, West Kilbride, alongside Troon Welbeck, Largs Routenburn, Ayr Belleisle and Irvine Ravenspark

Section matches will be completed by the end of August, with the winners of each section playing off for the trophy in the final in September.
2006 Ayrshire Boys Team Champions - KILMARNOCK BARASSIE - Stuart Henderson, Jamie Mackay, Euan Brown & Kyle Smith Posted by Picasa
Andrew D. Nimmo Trophy winners - LOUDOUN - Michael Cameron, Robert Jamieson, Craig Goodwin & Fraser Jardine. Posted by Picasa

AYRSHIRE BOYS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP - Kilmarnock Barassie create history with third successive win

On Sunday 16th April Kilmarnock (Barassie) became the first club in the 19 year history of the event to win the Matt Lygate Trophy and title of Ayrshire Boys Team Champions for three successive years, when 17 teams contested the 2006 championship at Caprington.

With the best three scores from four counting, the Barassie team of Euan Brown, Jamie Mackay, Kyle Smith and Stuart Henderson returned a scratch team total of 224 to take the premier title by a three shot margin from West Kilbride, represented by Cameron Gray, Fraser Lawrie, Michael Roos and Kieran Howie.

Craig McLaughlin, Andrew Abercrombie, Josh Nordbo and Paul Robinson, with a team total of 236, took third place in the scratch event on behalf of Largs.

In the handicap team event, for the Andrew D. Nimmo Trophy, West Kilbride, with a total of 215 lead the competition from the start, but were overtaken over the final few games by Loudoun, the team of Craig Goodwin, Robert Jamieson, Michael Cameron and Fraser Jardine securing a team total of 205 to win the trophy and title of Handicap Team Champions.
Jardine and Goodwin laid the foundation of the win with net returns of 65 and 69 respectively.
Jmaieson's 74, which was ultimately discarded , ensured that Loudoun would win the trophy, but the team total was improved by Cameron's nett 71, which included a notable eagle 2 at the 261 yard 12th hole.

In the individual competitions, Fraser Jardine of Loudoun took the Carrick Trophy, for the best nett score of the day, by one shot with a 65, whilst Fraser Lawrie of West Kilbride won the Prestwick Circuits Trophy for the best individual scratch return with a 4 over par 72.

Prizewinners in the three handicap sections were Craig Goodwin (Loudoun), Adam Sweeney (Largs Routenburn) and Craig Michael (Annanhill) with nett scores of 69, 72 and 66 respectively.

At the conclusion of the competition, Ayrshire Golf Association Vice President Ricky Magee (Caprington) presented trophies and vouchers to the succesful competitors.

The CSS for the competition was 71 ( + 3 ).

Roll Of Honour

MATT LYGATE TROPHY (Ayrshire Boys Team Champions) - Kilmarnock (Barassie) - 224

2nd Scratch - West Kilbride - 227
3rd Scratch - Largs - 236

ANDREW D. NIMMO TROPHY (Handicap Team Champions) - Loudoun - 205

PRESTWICK CIRCUITS TROPHY (Best individual scratch) - Fraser Lawrie (West Kilbride) - 72

CARRICK TROPHY (Best Individual Nett) - Fraser Jardine (Loudoun) 83-18=65

0-6 Handicap Class - Craig Goodwin (Loudoun) - 75-6=69
7-9 Handicap Class - Adam Sweeney (Largs Routenburn) - 79-7=72
10-18 Handicap Class - Craig Michael (Annanhill) - 84-18=66

Sunday, April 16, 2006

Prestwick Circuits Trophy winner Fraser Lawrie (West Kilbride) Posted by Picasa
Carrick Trophy winner Fraser Jardine (Loudoun) Posted by Picasa
Prizewinners at the 2006 Ayrshire Boys Team Championship Posted by Picasa

AYRSHIRE FOURBALL - Ardeer and Doon Valley secure second round places

With only one week left for first round matches to be completed, Ardeer and Doon Valley became the latest two teams to progress to round 2.

James Conlan and Kevin McCormack of Ardeer beat Kevin Nisbet and Robert Ross of New Cumnock by 2 holes in their match at Ardeer, and now face another home tie in round 2, against Andy Kerr and Craig Anderson (Ayr Carrick).

The Doon Valley pairing of James Brown and Ralph Mitchell were awarded a walkover by Jim Hay and John Darroch (Irvine Bogside) and now face a home tie against Kevin McKeown and Ramsay Eccles of Maybole in round 2.

Friday, April 14, 2006

SCOTTISH BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP - Ayrshire hopes end at quarter final stage

Hopes of and Ayrshire win in the 2006 Scottish Boys Championship, played at West Kilbride this week, were ended when the two remaining Ayrshire players bowed out at the quarter final stage on Friday morning.

Cameron Gray (West Kilbride) had a very close match with James Byrne (Banchory) with the lead changing throughout the match. A run of three succesive birdies late in the match gave Byrne a one hole advantage, but Gray again squared the match before losing out on the final green when Byrne birdied the last for a one hole victory.

John Shanks (Ardeer) faced Jamie Neilson (Dunbar) in the quarter final, and found his opponent a tough prospect. Shanks was never ahead in the match, winning his first and only hole at the 10th, before eventually losing out by 4 & 3.

Thursday, April 13, 2006

SCOTTISH BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP - Gray and Shanks carry Ayrshire hopes into quarter finals

Cameron Gray (West Kilbride) and John Shanks (Ardeer) will feature in Friday's Quarter Finals on the Scottish Boys Championshp at West Kilbride after two victories on Thursday.

Cameron Gray maintained his impressive winning margins in the morning, beating Andrew wallace (Glenbervie) by 7 & 5, to reach the last 16. The 5th round match, against Andrew Killen (St. Andrews) , was not such easy going for Gray, but he managed to edge past his opponent and into the quarter finals at the 20th hole of his afternoon match.

In the quarter final on Friday morning, Gray will play James Byrne (Banchory).

John Shanks (Ardeer) had a close match on Thursday morning, edging past Scott Fraser (Northern) at the first extra hole, but he produced one of the most notable results of the week in the afternoon, beating Fraser Ogston (St. Andrews) on the final green, after taking an early three hole lead in the match.

In the quarter finals Shanks will play Jamie Neilson (Dunbar).

The other Ayrshire player still in the competition on Thursday morning, Jamie Mackay (Kilmarnock Barassie) had a comfortable 5 & 4 win over Jamie Reid (Royal Mussleburgh) to reach the last 16, but his hopes were ended in the afternoon by Michael Main (Thornton) who defeated mackay by 3 & 2.

Wednesday, April 12, 2006

2006 Ayrshire Ladies' County Champion, Lesley hendry (Largs Routenburn) Posted by Picasa
Championship Finalists Lesley Hendry and Ros Kennedy Posted by Picasa

AYRSHIRE LADIES COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP - Hendry makes it two in a row

Lesley Hendry (Largs Routenburn) retained the Ayrshire Ladies County Championship on Wednesday at Western Gailes, beating Ros Kennedy (Troon Ladies) in an extremely close final with good golf on display, despite the wet and windy conditions.

In the morning Semi Finals, Lesley Hendry eased past former winner Sharon Lambie (Troon Ladies) by 4 & 3, whilst Ros Kennedy ended the challenge of Morag McPherson (Turnberry) on the 17th green, with a 2 & 1 victory.

The final, contested in front of a sizeable group of hardy spectators, was a close match throughout with Hendry gaining a two hole advantage before Kennedy pulled the match back to square.

The match stood all square on the final tee, and a half in four ensured that the final would continue into extra holes, where Hendry went on to secure the title for the second year in a row at the first extra hole.


Prizes were presented to the succesful competitors at the conclusion of the championship.
County Champion Lesley hendry with A.L.C.G.A. Honorary President, former Curtis Cup player Mrs. Phyl Wylie Posted by Picasa
Championship Semi Finalists Sharon Lambie (Troon Ladies), Lesley Hendry (Largs Routenburn), Ros Kennedy (Troon Ladies) and Morag McPherson (Turnberry) Posted by Picasa
Cameron Gray (West Kilbride) Posted by Picasa
Jamie Mackay (Kilmarnock Barassie) Posted by Picasa
John Shanks (Ardeer) Posted by Picasa

SCOTTISH BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP - Mackay, Gray and Shanks carry Ayrshire hopes into last 32

Ayrshire have three representatives in the last 32 of the 2006 Scottish Boys Championship after the third round was completed in extreme weather conditions on Wednesday.

Ayrshire Boys Champion Jamie Mackay (Kilmarnock Barassie) won the all Ayrshire third round tie against Fraser Lawrie (Largs) by a comfortable 5 & 4 margin, and narrowly missed out on another all Ayrshire tie in round 4 when Malcolm Pennycott (Whiting Bay) lost out to Jamie Reid (Royal Mussleburgh) at the 20th in their third round tie. Mackay now faces Reid in the first match on Thursday morning at 8.00 am.

Cameron Gray (West Kilbride) maintained the host clubs interest, easing past Shaun McAllister (Craigielaw) by 4 & 3 in round 3. Gray now meets Andrew Wallace (Glenbervie) in the last 32, teeing off at 8.32 am on Thursday.

John Shanks (Ardeer) had both his second and third round matches to complete on Wednesday, and he comfortably secured his place in the 4th round with a 4 & 3 win over Mark Kelly (Kirkhill) followed by a 4 & 2 victory over Somerled Smith (Dullatur). Shanks now meets Scott Fraser (Northern) in round 4, starting at 9.20 am on Thursday.

In the other matches on Wednesday involving Ayrshire players, there were second round exits for Scott Brown (Girvan) a last hole loser against Chris Gaittens (Fortrose and Rosemarkie), Craig McCall (Prestwick St. Nicholas), who went down by 7 & 6 to Kyle McClung (Wigtownshire County) and Stuart Henderson (Kilmarnock Barassie) who went out to a 3 & 2 defeat by Jamie Neilson (Dunbar).

Craig McLaughlin (Largs) defeated Kevin Duncan (McDonalsd) in round 2, but crashed out of the championship on wednesday afternoon, losing in the third round to James Byrne (Banchory) by 5 & 4.

AYRSHIRE CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS - Harkins ends McInally's grip on title

Chris Harkins (Ayr Belleisle) ended Tommy McInally's 3 year hold on the Champion Of Champions title in the first round of the 2006 competition with a 3 & 2 win at Belleisle last week.
Harkins' notable win now gives him a home tie against P. Johnstone (Irvine No 1) in round 2.

With the first round due to be completed by Sunday 16th April. there have been a number of ties decided recently.

Sammy Cox (Loudoun) secured a second round home match with A. Stewart Jr. (Stewarton) after a 4 & 3 home win over S. Angus (Muirkirk) in the opening round.

David Brackenridge (Dalmilling) is also through after a 2 & 1 home win over G. Ross (Malletscheugh) and has a home tie against Warren Blair (Troon St. Meddans) in round 2.

J. Brydon (Skelmorlie) beat J. Cathcart (Chase) in round 1 and now faces a home tie against John Shanks (Ardeer).

In the other two first round matches played so far, 2005 runner up Tony Fraser (Annnanhill) had an away win by 3 & 2 over D. Tweedell (North Beach) and now plays R. Paterson (Moorpark) at home, whilst J. Duff (West Kilbride) recorded a comfortable 6 & 5 home win over C. Milligan (Wallacetown) to secure a home tie against George Robertson (Ravenspark) in round 2.

Brian Moore (Largs) is the first player to secure a place in round 3 after a 4 & 2 home win over R. McCubbin (Durward) in the second round.

Tuesday, April 11, 2006


Lesley Hendry (Largs Routenburn)  Posted by Picasa

AYRSHIRE LADIES COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP - Hendry remains on course to retain title

Lesley Hendry (Largs Routenburn) remains on course to retain the Ayrshire Ladies' County Championship, securing a semi final place after the first two match play rounds were completed on Tuesday 11th April at Western Gailes.

Hendry had a comfortable 8 & 7 win over Christina Milroy (Loudoun) in the morning and met Lesley Williamson (Kilmarnock Barassie) in the quarter finals after Williamson beat former champion Jame Finnie (Troon Ladies) 5 & 4 in the first round.

Hendry secured her semi final place with a 6 & 5 win over Williamson in the afternoon.

In other first round matches, Sharon Lambie (Troon Ladies) beat clubmate Rosemary Donaldson at the 19th, whilst Rosalyn Purdon (Prestwick St. Nicholas) and Debbie Watt (Belleisle Ladies) secured 6 & 5 wins over Liz Keohone (Loudoun) and Nora McCrossin (Troon Ladies) respectively.

Former winner Ros Kennedy (Troon Ladies) was a 4 & 3 winner over Elizabeth Wilson (Kilmarnock Barassie) in the first round, whilst Morag McPherson (Turnberry) knocked out former champion Alex Glennie (Kilmarnock Barassie) at the 21st. The quarter final line up was completed by Cathering Malcolm (Prestwick St. Nicholas) who won 5 & 4 against Audrey Thomson (Loudoun).

With the quarter final matches being completed on Tuesday afternoon, Lesley Hendry was joined in the first semi final by Sharon Lambie who secured a second successive win at the 19th, against Rosalyn Purdom.

The second semi final will feature Ros Kennedy, a 3 & 1 winner over Debbie Watt, and Morag McPherson, who gained a second notable win of the day with a 1 hole victory over Catherine Malcolm.

The semi finals, scheduled for Wednesday morning are :-

Lesley Hendry (Largs Routenburn) Vs. Sharon Lambie (Troon Ladies)
Ros Kennedy (Troon Ladies) Vs. Morag McPherson (Turnberry)

SCOTTISH BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP - 9 Ayrshire players remain after day 2

9 of the Ayrshire contingent remain in the 2006 Ayrshire Boys Championship after the completion of the second days play at West Kilbride.

In the first round on Monday, when play was delayed for an hour due to early frost, host club member Cameron Gray secured one of the biggest wins of the day with a 7 & 6 vixctory over Gordon McLean (Rothesay). Mondays first round results involving Ayrshire players were :-

Malcolm Pennycott (Whiting Bay) beat Ben Jamieson (St. Andrews New) 2 & 1
Jamie Mackay (Kilmarnock Barassie) beat Stephen Keane (Cathkin Braes) 1 hole
Fraser Lawrie (Largs) beat Martin Shaw (Haggs Castle) 3 & 2
Andrew Abercrombie (Largs) lost to Robert Carson (Dalmahoy) 4 & 2
Kyle Smith (Kilmarnock Barassie) beat Daniel Young (Craigiehill) 6 & 4
Cameron Gray (West Kilbride) beat Gordon McClean (Rothesay) 7 & 6
Michael Stewart (Troon Welbeck) lost to Andrew Wallace (Glenbervie) 1 hole
Scott Brown (Girvan) beat Steven Jackson (Craigmillar Park) 3 & 1
Craig McCall (Prestwick St. Nicholas) beat Jamie Lambie (Sandyhills) 2 & 1
Craig McLaughlin (Largs) beat Hugh Nelson (Kilsyth Lennox) 3 & 1
Matthew Skeoch (Troon Welbeck) lost to Oliver Huish (The Glen) 6 & 5
Stuart Henderson (Kilmarnock Barassie) beat David Graham (Machrahanish) 4 & 3

In the remaining first round matches, on Tuesday 11th April, John Shanks (Ardeer) was the only one of the three Ayrshire players who secured a place in round 2. Results on Tuesday morning were :-

John Shanks (Ardeer) beat Sean Summers (Uphall) 6 & 5
Adam Foley (Ayr Belleisle) lost to Fraser Clarke (Westhill) 4 & 3
Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie) lost to Chris Conroy (Paisley) 2 holes

In the Second round, which began on Tuesday, Cameron Gray continued his impressive progress with a 6 & 4 win, whilst Malcolm Pennycott and Jamie Mackay also progresses in style with 4 & 3 victories.

Second Round results on tuesday, involving Ayrshire players, were :-

Malcolm Pennycott (Whiting Bay) beat Liam McLaughlan (Kingsknowe) 4 & 3
Jamie Mackay (Kilmarnock Barassie) beat Ryan Elder (Nairn Dunbar) 4 & 3
Fraser Lawrie (Largs) beat Paul Ferrier (Baberton) 2 holes
Kyle Smith (Kilmarnock Barassie) lost to Mark Bookless (Sandyhills) 2 holes
Cameron Gray (West Kilbride) beat Keith Shanks (Hilton Park) 6 & 4

The second round matches are scheduled to be completed on Wednesday morning, with the third round due for completion on Wednesday afternoon.

Second round matches involving Ayrshire players on Wednesday morning are :-

Scott Brown (Girvan) Vs. Chris Gaittens (Fortrose & Rosemarkie)
Craig McCall (Prestwick St. Nicholas) Vs. Kyle McClung (Wigtownshire County)
Craig McLaughlin (Largs) Vs. Kevin Duncan (McDonald)
Stuart Henderson (Kilmarnock Barassie) Vs. Jamie Neilson (Dunbar)
John Shanks (Ardeer) Vs. Mark Kelly (Kirkhill)

There is guaranteed to be an Ayrshire interest in round 4, with Ayrshire Boys Champion Jamie Mackay meeting Fraser Lawrie in the third round, with a good possibility of an Ayrshire player reaching the 5th round , if malcolm Pennycott can win in the third round to secure a 4th round meeting with Mackay or Lawrie.

Confirmed third round matches involving Ayrshire players, , sheduled for Wednesday afternoon are :-

Malcolm Pennycott (Whiting Bay) Vs. Jamie Reid (Royal Mussleburgh)
Jamie Mackay (Kilmarnock Barassie) Vs. Fraser Lawrie (Largs)
Cameron Gray (West Kilbride) Vs. Shaun McAllister (Craigielaw)

Monday, April 10, 2006

AYRSHIRE LADIES COUNTY GOLF ASSOCIATION - Defending champion leads qualifiers for match play

The start of the qualifying round for the 2006 Ayrshire Ladies County Golf Championship at Western Gailes on Monday 10th April was delayed for 45 minutes due to heavy overnight frost rendering the course unplayable at the scheduled start time.

Best score of the day was returned by Robina Gilbertson (Belleisle Ladies), her 77 edging out the defending champion Lesley Hendry (Largs Routenburn) and former champion Catherine Malcolm (Prestwick St. Nicholas) by one shot.

With Gilbertson unavailable for the match play stages, the qualifiers for the match play, which takes place on Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th April, again at Western Gailes are led by the holder Lesley Hendry.

The 16 qualifiers are :- 1. Lesley Hendry (Largs Routenburn) (78) 2. Catherine Malcolm (Prestwick St. Nicholas) (78) 3. Debbie Watt (Belleisle Ladies) (80) 4. Liz Keohone (Loudoun) (80) 5. Sharon Lambie (Troon ladies) (83) 6. Ros Kennedy (Troon Ladies) (84) 7. Alex Glennie (Kilmarnock Barassie) (85) 8. Jane Finnie (Troon Ladies) (86) 9. Lesley Williamson (Kilmarnock Barassie) (86) 10 Morag Macpherson (Turnberry) (87) 11. Elizabeth Wilson (Kilmarnock Barassie ) (87) 12. Rosemary Donaldson (Troon Ladies) (87) 13. Rosalyn Purdom (Prestwick St. Nicholas) (87) 14. Nora McCrossin (Troon Ladies) (91) 15 Audrey Thompson (Loudoun) (91) 16. Christina Milroy (Loudoun) (94)

The draw for the 1st round of the matchplay, on Tuesday morning is

Lesley Hendry (Largs Routenburn) Vs. Christina Milroy (Loudoun)
Lesley Williamson (Kilmarnock Barassie) Vs. Jane Finnie (Troon Ladies)
Sharon Lambie (Troon ladies) Vs. Rosemary Donaldson (Troon Ladies)
Rosalyn Purdom (Prestwick St. Nicholas) Vs. Liz Keohone (Loudoun)
Debbie Watt (Belleisle Ladies) Vs. Nora McCrossin (Troon Ladies)
Elizabeth Wilson (Kilmarnock Barassie) Vs. Ros Kennedy (Troon Ladies)
Alex Glennie (Kilmarnock Barassie) Vs. Morag Macpherson (Turnberry)
Catherine Malcolm (Prestwick St. Nicholas) Vs. Audrey Thompson (Loudoun)

Friday, April 07, 2006

AYRSHIRE FOURBALL - Ravenspark secure second round place

The Irvine Ravenspark pairing of Ronnie Potts and Ian Wilson fought back from 4 down after 5 holes, in wet and windy conditions on Friday, to progress to the second round of the Fourball when they entertained father and son pairing from Stewarton, Alan and Alan Stewart.

Despite the early setback, the Ravenspark gained a last green victory, winning the tie by two holes.

In round 2, the Ravenspark pairing now play host to I. Steel and B. O'Rourke from Kilbirnie.

Thursday, April 06, 2006

AYRSHIRE STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP - select field line up for Barassie contest.

68 players will contest the 2006 Ayrshire Strokeply Championship, at Kilmarnock (Barassie) on Sunday 23rd April. David McLure (Welbeck) does not return to defend the title he won 12 months ago at Prestwick.

The full Order Of Play is

7.45
& 12.15
G. J. ROBERTSON (Ravenspark) T. McINALLY (Loudoun)


7.52
& 12.22 W. McGILL (Ravenspark) M. ANDERSON (Irvine) A. DICKIE (Barassie)

8.00
& 12.30 T. FRASER (Annanhill) A. LEGGATE (Barassie) B. O'ROURKE (Kilbirnie)

8.07
&
12.37
R. FULKER (Barassie) A. McLEAN (Kilbirnie) A. CAMPBELL (Annanhill)


8.15
&
12.45 H. BURNS (Welbeck) C SHARP (Barassie) J. McCORMACK (Dalmilling)

8.22
&
12.52
S. COX (Loudoun) A. CONNERY Irvine) J. MORRISON (Barassie)


8.30
&
1.00 R. ASPIN (Barassie) A. BARBOUR (Irvine) I. SHERRY (Barassie)

8.37
&
1.10 J. CAIRNEY (Ravenspark) T. LOY (Ballochmyle) P. BOND (Ravenspark)

8.45
&
1.20 I. BROWN West Kilbride) I. WALKER (Brunston) D. MALLINSON (Ravenspark)

8.52
&
1.30
G BRYDEN (Girvan) C. HAMILTON (Ballochmyle) J. SLOAN (Doon Valley)


9.00
&
1.45
A. BROWN (West KIlbride) P. DENIM (Loudoun) R. W. SMITH (Dalmilling)


9.10
&
1.52 K. RUSSELL (Doon Valley) S. ROBIN (St. Nicholas) B. MOORE (Largs)

9.18
&
2.00
D. CHAMBERLAIN (Welbeck) I. MENZIES (Largs) N. SINCLAIR (Barassie)


9.26
&
2.10
W. MEIKLEM (Welbeck) S. PENNINGTON (St. Meddans) C.McLAUGHLIN (Largs)


9.34
&
2.20 B. MURRAY (Welbeck) C. McGOWAN (Welbeck) S. KING (St. Nicholas)

9.42
&
2.30 D. McKINNON (Ballochmyle) K HOUSTON (Welbeck) R. McKNIGHT (Barassie)

9.50
&
2.40 S. McCAHILL (Maybole) S. McEWAN (Barassie) K. FERGUSON (St. Cuthbert)

10.00
&
3.00
B. CRAWFORD (West KIlbride) R. WILLS (Welbeck) G. GIMSON (St. Cuthbert)


10.08
&
3.08 I. GUTHRIE (Ballochmyle) R. HUTTON (Brunston) S. McBLAIN (St. Cuthbert)

10.16
&
3.16 R. MILLIGAN (St. Meddans) J. CALLAGHAN (Largs) N. BLACK (Barassie)

10.23
&
3.23
K. R. REID (Prestwick) S HENDERSON (Barassie) R STEWART (Portland)


10.30
&
3.30
R.DIXON (Barassie) G. TIERNEY (St. Nicholas) D R NICOL (Portland)


10.38
&
3.38 D. GEMMELL (Dalmilling) S WALLACE (St. Cuthbert) A. WALSH (Portland)


The top 16 placed players in the Strokeplay Championship will progress to contest the 2006 Ayrshire Matchplay Championship from 1st to 4th May 2006 at Troon Portland.

Wednesday, April 05, 2006

AYRSHIRE BOYS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP - 16 teams contest 2006 championship.

16 teams will contest the 2006 Ayrshire Boys Team Championship, the traditional opener to the Ayrshire junior golf season, which will be held on Sunday 16th April at Caprington.

Kilmarnock (Barassie) will bid to winthe Matt Lygate Trophy, and the premier title of Ayrshire Boys Tean Champions for a third successive tear, whilst Ballochmyle return to defend the Andrew D. Nimmo Trophy, and title of handicap Team Champions, secured over their home course 12 months ago.

Neither Robert McKnight (Kilmarnock Barassie) or David Robertson (Ballochmyle) return to defend the individual Prestwick Circuits and Carrick trophies respectively, leaving the way open for new winners of both these awards this season.

The full draw for order of play is :-

1100 John shanks (Ardeer), Cameron Gray (W. Kilbride), Sean Manson (St. Nicholas)
1107 Fergus Cunningham (Ardeer), Fraser Lawrie (W. Kilbride), Craig McCall (St. Nicholas)
1114 Martin Dunning (Ardeer), Michael Roos (W. Kibride), Stephen Mancini (St. Nicholas)
1121 Callum Ainsworth (Ardeer), Grant Weir (W. Kilbride), Matthew Dunlop (St. Nicholas)
1128 Lloyd Allam (Welbeck), Adam Foley (Belleisle), Euan Brown (Barassie)
1135 Stuart Muir (Welbeck), Scott Clark (Belleisle), Jamie Mackay (Barassie)
1142 Kris Kirk (Welbeck), Gary Swan (Belleisle), Kyle Smith (Barassie)
1149 Andrew McDonald (Welbeck), Graham McDonald (Belleisle), Stuart Henderson (Barassie)
1200 Stephen McConnell (St. Cuthbert), Craig McLaughlin (Largs), Niall McDonnell (Ravenspark)
1207 Grant McIlloney (St. Cuthbert), Andrew Abercrombie (Largs), Jason Butler (Ravenspark)
1214 Andrew Miller (St. Cuthbert), Josh Nordbo (Largs), Christopher Butler (Ravenspark)
1221 David Brown (St. Cuthbert), Paul Robinson (Largs), David Meechan (Ravenspark)
1228 Scott Hannah (New Cumnock), Mark Tait (Annanhill), Kieran Johnstone (Dalmilling)
1235 Gary Ballantyne (New Cumnock), Brian Griffin (Annanhill), Sean Thorburn (Dalmilling)
1242 William McDonald (New Cumnock), Euan Bennett (Annanhill), Jamie Sanderson (Dalmilling)
1249 Cieran Byrne (New Cumnock), Craig Michael (Annanhill), John McLelland (Dalmilling)
1300 Adam Sweeney (Routenburn), Gary Patterson (Ballochmyle), Ross Arthur (Caprington)
1307 Adam Brownlow (St. Meddans), James Acheson (Routenburn), David Gillespie (Caprington)
1314 David Cunningham (Ballochmyle), Rory McKenzie (St. Meddans), Chris Young (Caprington)
1321 Rory Acheson (Routenburn), Gary Herbertson (Ballochmyle), Robbie McFarlane (Caprington)
1328 Duncan Mullen (St. Meddans), Stephen Hedberg (Routenburn)
1335 Craig Nicol (Ballochmyle), Ewan Murray (St. Meddans)

AYRSHIRE CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS - First round of 2006 championship nears completion.

With the 16 first round ties in the 2006 Ayrshire Champion Of Champions Trophy event due to be completed by 16th April, a number of the ties have been completed recently.

Andrew Scanlon (Auchenharvie) received a walkover against S.A. Leonard (Royal Troon) and now plays host to Tommy Loy (Ballochmyle) in the second round.

Henry Thomson (Irvine) secured a home tie in the second round against D. Robertson (Crosshouse) after a crushing 7 & 6 defeat of J. McIntyre (Seafield), at Bogside, in the opening round.

Largs representative Brian Moore had a home win by 6 & 5 over B. O'Rourke (Kilbirnie) in round 1, and now plays host to R. McCubbin (Durward) at the second stage.

Kilmarnock Barassie's Ross Dixon had a 2 & 1 win over Ramsay Eccles (Maybole) in the opening round, to set up a home tie against Colin Craig (Troon Welbeck) in round 2.

The other first round tie played so far saw Steven Bolland (Tam O Shanter) winning by 3 & 2 at Caprington against J. Houston to set up a home tie against Malcolm Pennycott (Whiting Bay) in round 2.

AYRSHIRE FOURBALL - West Kilbride and Prestwick St. Nicholas secure second round places

The chase for the 2006 Ayrshire Fourball title has begun, with two of the 12 first round ties completed to date.

Father and son pairing of Cameron and Fraser McLatchie, representing West Kilbride won through by the narrowest of margins, on the final green, in their home tie against the saxone pairing of W. Creevy and J. Campbell.

The West Kilbride pair now play host to R. McCubbin and G. Jess of Durward in round 2.

In the other completed tie, Roger Parry and Alan Duffy of Prestwick St. Nicholas were 4 up after 10 against Sean Ingle and Gavin Stuart of Braehead when the match was conceded to the home side.

Parry and Duffy now play host to Glen and Scott Kelly of Tam O'Shanter in round 2.

The remaining first round ties are due to be completed by 23rd April, with the second round to be completed by 28th May.