ALL THE LATEST NEWS ON AMATEUR GOLF IN AYRSHIRE

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Belleisle Open 29 July 2007
(report by David Low)

188 players teed it up in beautiful conditions on Sunday 29th July.

The best scratch score was 72 by Chris Harkins of Ayr Belleisle by a shot from Ian Duff (Troon Welbeck).

Best net scores were 69 from Derek Bentley (Ayr Belleisle), Stevie Arrandale (Tam O’Shanter) and Alistair Dow (Loudoun) but the winner of the Rozelle Cup was Jonathon Haddow from Tam O’Shanter with 81 less 14 for a net 67.

Thanks to sponsors Reid, Scott & Ross, County Saab, Richard Gordon, Spirit Aero Systems, Carrick Neill, Wm Cumming & Son, Colin Hume, Dewar’s Scotch, Pieroni’s, Slater Menswear, DW Shaw, Elite Custom Exhausts, Castelli, Finnies Sports, Abbotsford Hotel, McCallum’s Foods, Danny’s Barbers, Market Inn, J McGee, Alexanders Sawmills, Stevie Arrandale, Fujitsu, Taylormade Fencing, Old Racecourse Hotel, Belleisle House & Cariston HotelSpecial thanks to Kevin & the greenkeeping staff for a beautifully presented course.

SCOTTISH AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP - 12 Ayrshire players survive first day test

On Monday 30 July, the opening day of the 2007 Scottish Amateur Championship, being played at Prestwick, 11 of the 21 Ayrshire players in action survived their first test and booked a place in round 2.

In the first match of the morning, David Strachan (Turnberry) was unlucky to go out by one hole to Lindsay Miller (Cawder).

2006 Ayrshire Order Of Merit winner John Cairney (Irvine Ravenspark) was the first Ayrshire player through to round 2, winning through in what proved to be the longest match of the day when he beat George Findlay (Ballumbie Castle) at the 22nd. Cairney now plays former Amateur Champion Craig Watson (East Renfrewshire) who beat Ayrshire Matchplay title holder Steven Murray (Troon Welbeck) by 5 & 4 in round 1.

James Bunch (Prestwick) joined Cairney in round 2 with a 2 & 1 win over Andrew McLachlan (Bonnyton). Bunch now plays George Barrie (Callander) in the next round.

Scottish Internationalist Paul O'Hara (Colville Park) proved too strong for Alex Gourlay (Irvine), beating the Ayrshire county player by 4 & 2

Steven McEwan (Caprington) had a comfortable 5 & 4 win over Mark Dickson (Alwoodley) to set up a second round match against Steven Hume (Murrayshall).

Shaun McAllister (Craigielaw) ended the hopes of Craig Hamilton (Ballochmyle) at the opening stage, with a 3 & 2 victory.

In the second quarter, Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie) beat Neil Cameron (King James VI) by 3 & 2 and now plays Kristian Branum-Burns (Bearwood Lakes) in the second round.

Local player Kevin Fergusson (Prestwick St. Cuthbert) brought a good following from his home club and repaid his supporters with a 5 & 3 win against Malcolm Davidson (Craigie Hill) to set up a second round clash with Nicky Gold (Bonnyton).

The Ayrshire players in the middle of the second quarter draw did not fare well, boys internationalist Cameron Gray (West KIlbride) going down by 3 & 2 to Anthony Bews (Murcar), Craig McLaughlin (Largs) being beated one hole by Graham Molloy (Wishaw) whilst Ayrshire Champion Of Champions trophy holder Brian Moore (Largs) also went out, beaten 5 & 4 by Andrew Weir (Montrose Merchantile).

The remaining four Ayrshire players in the second quarter all won a place in round 2.

Graeme Gimson (Prestwick St. Cuthbert) beat Richard Elrick (Kilmacolm) by 5 & 4 and now plays Craig Haugh (Cathkin Braes). Also through went Ross Dixon (Kilmarnock Barassie) who beat Ross Kellett (Colville Park) by 3 & 2 to set up a second round match against Matthew Burt (Helensburgh).

Ayrshire Strokeplay Champion John Shanks (Irvine) needed extra holes to see off Ross Leeds (Muckhart), his win at the 19th giving him a second round tie against Allan Johnston (Bonnyton), the conqueror of the newly crowned Scottish Boys Strokeplay Champion and seed, James Byrne (Banchory).

The last Ayrshireman in the second quarter, David Currie (Kilmarnock Barassie) lost 3 & 2 to Jamie Farmer (St. Andrews).

Five further Ayrshire players featured in the late Monday afternoon matches in round one, and three were successful in reaching round two.

Out went Chris Harkins (Ayr Belleisle), beaten one hole by Steven Higgins (Gourock), and late substitute Jamie Murchie (Lamlash), beaten two holes by Greg Paterson (St. Andrews New).

Youth internationalist Robert McKnight (Kilmarnock Barassie) crushed Kieth Spence (Newmacher) by 6 & 5 and now plays Murchie's conqueror, Greg Paterson in round 2.

Paul Moultrie (Troon Portland) beat Fraser Bone (Cardross) by 2 & 1 to secure a second round match against Steven Maxwell (Windyhill).

The final Ayrshire player featuring in the Monday matches was former Scottish Amateur Champion Allan Thomson (Ayr Belleisle), who won a bronze medal in the championship when it was last staged at Prestwick in 1998, and the former internationalist won through to round two with a 3 & 2 win over Michael Campbell (Renfrew) to set up a second round match against Lewis Kirkton (Newmacher).

A further 16 Ayrshire players contest first round matches on Tuesday before the second round ties begin on Tuesday afternoon.

Saturday, July 28, 2007

WEST OF SCOTLAND SENIORS OPEN - Miller best placed from Ayrshire

David Miller (Kilmarnock Barassie) was the best placed Ayrshire player in the West Of Scotland Seniors Open competition played at Hamilton this week.

Former Ayrshire Champion Of Champions Trophy holder Miller was 5 off the pace set by William Erskine (Kilsyth Lennox) and Ronald Maclean (Hamilton) who tied for victory on 145.

Leading scores :- (CSS 73/73)

145 - W Erskine (Kilsyth Lennox) 75 70, R Maclean (Hamilton) 75 70
146 - P Lamb (Biggar) 74 72
147 - J Paton (Kirkintilloch) 76 71, B Smith (Hamilton) 73 74, G MacDonald (Callander) 73 74
149 - R Stewart (Tulliallan) 77 72
150 - J Brown (Hamailton) 73 77, D Millar (Kilmarnock Barassie) 73 77, G Brown (Vale of Leven) 73 77

Other Ayrshire scores :-

161 - D McKinnon (Ballochymyle) 79 82
162 - K Howie (West Kilbride) 81 81
166 - J Broadfoot (Turnberry) 85 81
181 - D Kerr (Turnberry) 89 92

Friday, July 27, 2007

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR ORDER OF MERIT - Stewart leads after national performances

Despite only counting in two events so far, the national stature of the events concerned has propelled Michael Stewart (Troon Welbeck) - pictured right -to the top of the Ayrshire Junior Order Of Merit, with eight counting events completed.

Stewart's performance in the Scottish Boys Championship in April was surpassed by his runners up spot in this the Scottish Boys Strokeplay this week at Cardrona.

Previous leader, Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie) is in second place and Scott Brown (Turnberry) lies joint third with Malcolm Pennycott (Whiting Bay), after Brown's win in the Pollock Trophy competition at Kilmarnock (Barassie).

Results from the Welbeck Boys Open and the Caprington Boys Open have still to be added.

Remaining counting events this season include :-

30/07/2007 - Prestwick St. Nicholas Boys Open (Prestwick St. Nicholas)
31/07/2007 - Gareth Ferguson Trophy (Ardeer)
02/08/2007 - Ayrshire Boys Championship (Ballochmyle)
07/08/2007 - Tom Lehman Junior Open (Troon Municipal)
09 - 11/08/2007 - Ayrshire Boys matchplay (Prestwick)
12/08/2007 - Kilbirnie Boys Open (Kilbirnie Place)
13/08/2007 - Ballochmyle Junior Open (Ballochmyle)
14/08/2007 - Irvine Boys Open (Irvine Ravenspark)
26/08/2007 - Beith Boys Open (Beith)

LEADING POINTS TOTALS :-

275 - MICHAEL STEWART (Welbeck)
210 - EUAN BROWN (Barassie)
170 - SCOTT BROWN (Turnberry), MALCOLM PENNYCOTT (Whiting bay)
120 - SCOTT CLARK (Belleisle)
110 - JAMIE ACHISON (Routenburn)
100 - CRAIG TELFER (St. Cuthbert), CHRIS BUTLER (Ravenspark), ANDREW ABERCROMBIE (Largs), ADAM FOLEY (Ayr Belleisle)

AYRSHIRE SUMMER LEAGUE - Ravenspark grab semi final place in last match

Irvine Ravenspark made a last gasp effort to snatch the semi final place from League 4 in the 2007 Ayrshire Summer League competition this week.

Ravenspark, trailing New Cumnock with only one match remaining, won their final tie at Troon St. Meddans by 4 - 2 to match New Cumnock's points total and snatch the semi final place by virtue of a better points difference (+3 to -1) over the qualifying matches.

Ravenspark now face the winners of Section 3, who are either Ballochmyle or Moorpark, in the semi finals.

The other semi final will feature Troon Welbeck and Irvine (Bogside).

AYRSHIRE GOLF ASSOCIATION - Ravenspark into Fourball semi finals

Joe Hobson & Brian Gibson (Irvine Ravenspark) have booked their place in the semi finals of the 2007 Ayrshire Fourball competition, courtesy of a 2 & 1 quarter final win at home to Alistair Nicol & John Duncan (Troon Portland).

The Ravenspark pair now face an away tie in the semi finals, against either Drongan or NACCO.

MEASURING DEVICES - Whats the story ?

After some discussion and rumour following the recent Ayrshire Club Championship at Irvine Ravenspark, and the use of measuring devices by players, it may be useful to clarify the position.

County events generally adopt the local rules of the club or course at which the event is run.

In terms of Decision 14-3/0.5 in the 2006-2007 Decisions On The Rules Of Golf, a Committee may establish a local rule permitting the use of devices that measure distance only.
In the absence of such a local rule, the use of such equipment would be a breach of rule 14-3.

Irvine Ravenspark have such a local rule in place and consequently the use of such devices were permitted in the event held there.

At least one competitor, prior to playing, approached the committee organising the event to clarify the use of such equipment during the competition, and it was confirmed that the use of such devices would be permissable during th event.

Hope this clarifies any misconceptions or confusion with regard to the competition concerned.

SCOTTISH BOYS STROKEPLAY - Stewart ousted by Byrne in extra hole play off for title

Michael Stewart of Troon Welbeck lost out in a dramatic finish to the Scottish BOys Strokeplay CHampionship at Cardrona on Thursday when he was defeated at the third extra hole by James Byrne (Banchory), after the two players had tied on 274, 14 under par after the four rounds.

Stewart started the day five shots behind Byrne, but a mornign round of 65 cut the defecit to one shot. Stewart looked likely to carry on to victory with a 3 stroke lead with 9 holes to play in the final round, but Byrne holed a 90yd pitch for an eagle 3 at the 10th and birdied the 12th to match Stewart at that stage, on 15 under par.

A combination of bogeys by Stewart and birdies by Byrne turned the championship in Byrne's favour with a three stroke advantage playing 17, but Byrne took double bogey on the penultimate hole and followed that with a bogey at the last to allow Stewart to match his total with a fine finishing par four.

At the third extra hole, Stewart played a superb bunker shot of around 100 yards to within 12ft of the hole, but Byrne, who had negotiated the hole with an iron from the tee, put his approach to 5ft from the hole and duly sank the put for a winning birdie three

The only other Ayrshire player to play in all four rounds, Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie) faded in the closing two rounds, returning 75 & 77 for a 298 total


LEADING FINAL TOTALS
(Par 288)

274 - J Byrne (Banchory) 67 69 69 69, M Stewart (Troon Welbeck) 69 72 65 68.
284 - N Henderson (Glen) 71 72 70 71, A Wallace (Glenbervie) 71 71 72 70.
287 - D Young (Craigie Hill) 74 71 71 71.
290 - C Robb (Inchmarlo) 76 71 71 72, C Gaittens (Fortrose & Rosemarkie) 69 75 71 75, F Fotheringham (Nairn) 73 69 75 73, S McLaren (King James VI) 70 74 75 71.

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

AYRSHIRE BOYS GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP - Draw for 56th annual competition

54 of the best young golfers in Ayrshire will line up at Ballochmyle on Thursday 2nd August 2007 for the 56th Ayrshire Boys Golf Championship.

The 36 hole strokeplay event was won last year by John Shanks (Irvine) who went on to take the senior title at the start of 2007. Shanks is too olde to defend the boys title this year.

Lowest handicappers in the field this year are Scottish internationalist and former winner Cameron Gray (West Kilbride) and his Ayrshire county teammate Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie) who are both currently playing off scratch.

The draw for order of play is :-

0935 & 1435 - Jim McPhillimy (Kilmarnock Barassie), Allan Todd (Ayr Belleisle), Martin Ronald (Irvine Ravenspark)
0942 & 1442 - Kieran Howie (West Kilbride), Callum Stewart (Ayr Belleisle), Alan Bruce (Kilmarnock Barassie)
0949 & 1449 - Stephen Durnin (West Kilbride), Grant Clark (Troon St. Meddans) , Robbie Wilson (Ballochmyle)
1000 & 1500 - Rory Achison (Largs Routenburn), Michael Roos (West Kilbride), Andrew Abercrombie (Largs)
1007 & 1507 - Iain Reid (West Kilbride), Alasdair Berry (Irvine Ravenspark), Matthew Foley (Ayr Belleisle)
1014 & 1514 - Colin Robinson (Millport), Scott Clark (Ayr Belleisle), Josh Nordbo (Largs)
1021 & 1521 - Luke Halbert (Irvine), Lloyd Smith (Kilmarnock Barassie), David Brown (Girvan)
1028 & 1528 - Andrew Wright (Kilmanrock Barassie), David Wilson (Troon Welbeck), Adam Foley (Ayr Belleisle)
1035 & 1535 - Scott brown (Turnberry), Jmaie Achison (Largs Routenburn), Fraser lawrie (Largs)
1042 & 1542 - Ciaran Byrne (New Cumnock), Michael Mullen (Ballochmyle), Liam Gourlay (Irvine Ravenspark)
1049 & 1549 - Jonathon Nicol (Largs Routneburn), Craig Telfer (Prestwick St. Cuthbert), Fraser Mckay (West Kilbride)
1100 & 1600 - Jared Williams (Troon St. Meddans), Callum Crowe (Kilbirnie Place), Robert Jamieson (Loudoun Gowf)
1107 & 1607 - Stephen Main (Prestwick St. Nicholas), Thomas Gaunt (Kilmarnock Barassie), Scott hannah (New Cumnock)
1114 & 1614 - Sam McCalla (Brodick), daniel Syme (Irvine Ravenspark), Matthew Dunlop (Prestwick St. Nicholas)
1121 & 1621 - Cameron Gray (West Kilbride), Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie), Malcolm Pennycott (Whiting Bay)
1128 & 1628 - Alan Jeffrey (Machrie), Ross De Courcy (West KIlbride), Chris Butler (Irvine Ravenspark)
1135 & 1635 - Stephen McConnell (Prestwick St. Cuthbert), Euan Evans (Lamlash), Gary Paterson (Ballochmyle)
1142 & 1642 - David J. Brown (Prestwick St. Cuthbert), Fraser Kerr (Kilmarnock Barassie), Grant Weir (West Kilbride)

SCOTTISH BOYS STROKEPLAY - Stewart second on his own as Byrne extends his lead

James Byrne (Banchory) extended his lead in the Scottish Boys Strokeplay championship, being held this week at Cardrona, when he followed his opening 67 with a second round 69 to put him on 8 under par and five ahead of the field.


Byrne's closes challenger is Ayrshire's Michael Stewart (Troon Welbeck) who had a second round of level par 72 for a total of 141.


With the field being reduced after two rounds, only one other Ayrshire player survived the cut, Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie) being comfortably within the cut limit of 151 with his round of 76 & 70 for 146.


Scott Brown (Turnberry) was unlucky to miss the cut by one shot, after a second round 79.


Leading totals after two rounds (Par 144) :-


136 - J Byrne (Banchory) 67 69
141 - M Stewart (Troon Welbeck) 69 72
142 - A McLachlan (Bonnyton) 74 68, A Wallace (Glenbervie) 71 71, F Fotheringham (Nairn) 73 69
143 - N Henderson (Glen) 71 72
144 - S Binning (Ranfurly Castle) 72 72, S McGarvey (Glencorse) 72 72, C Gaittens (Fortrose & Rosemarkie) 69 75, S McLaren (King James VI) 70 74
145 - D Young (Craigie Hill) 74 71, G Richards (Kingsknowe) 74 71
146 - J Hamilton (NZ) 75 71, N Macandrew (Cullen) 73 73, I Allan (Hopeman) 75 71, D Parlane (Helensburgh) 72 74, E Brown (Barassie) 76 70, G Davidson (Winterfield) 69 77
147 - P McPhee (King James VI) 75 72, A Dunton (McDonald Ellon) 75 72, C Robb (Inchmarlo) 76 71, C Thomson (East Renfrewshire) 73 74, R Satterley (Longniddry) 75 72, J Hunter (US) 74 73, M Bookless (Sandyhills) 77 70, C Green (US) 71 76
148 - J Bradley (Paisley) 73 75, B Jamieson (St Andrews New) 75 73
149 - T Spencer (Inchmarlo) 74 75, T Blennerhassett (Marriott Dalmahoy) 74 75
150 - A Cappi (Loretto School) 77 73, F McKenna (Balmore) 76 74, G McDougall (Bishopbriggs) 72 78, G Reid (Newbattle) 73 77, M Kelly (Kirkhill) 70 80, G Hydbom (Swe) 77 73, M Cunningham (Longniddry) 73 77, R Storrier (Downfield) 75 75
151 - I Redford (King James VI) 75 76, A Murdoch (Stranraer) 75 76, G Duncan (US) 77 74, S Fraser (Royal Aberdeen) 72 79, J Hendrick (Pollok) 72 79


MISSED THE CUT

152 - S Brown (Turnberry) 73 79
153 - K Smith (Barassie) 73 80
156 - C Gray (West Kilbride) 78 78
159 - M Roos (West Kilbride) 78 81, D Currie (Kilmarnock Barassie) 78,81
160 - M Pennycott (Whiting Bay) 78 82
162 - A Abercrombie (Largs) 83 79
166 - F Lawrie (Largs) 81 85

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE - St. Nicholas secure semi final place

Prestwick St. Nicholas finally secured their semi final place in the 2007 Ayrshire Junior Golf League Championship on Tuesday night when they won their final match of the section by 4 - 2 at West Kilbride, to end the challenge of the north ayrshire club.

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

SCOTTISH BOYS STROKEPLAY - Stewart well placed after first round

Michael Stewart (Troon Welbeck) - pictured right - lies in joint second place, two off the pace, after the first round of the Scottish Boys Strokeplay Championship being played at Cardrona this week.

Stewart returned a three under par 69 to trail first round leader James Byrne (Banchory) by two shots, after his fellow boys internationalist fireed a five under par 67 over the borders course.

Next best placed Ayrshire players are Scott Brown (Turnberry) and Kyle Smith (Kilmarnock Barassie) who are tied 20th after returnign one over par 73's.

For a full list of results click on the Scottish Golf Union link on the left of this page.

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE - West Kilbride could still qualify in section C, ahead of St. Nicholas

Well done to those who spotted the error........ In Section C, West Kilbride could in fact overtake St. Nicholas by winning their three games remaining, the second of which is against St. Nicholas on 24.07.2007.

West Kilbride apparently beat Dalmilling and now require to win both remaining matches to qualify. St. Nicholas only require a draw at West Kilbride on Tuesday night to go through.

Apologies to those concrerned for the error.....just goes to show we all make mistakes !!!!!

Monday, July 23, 2007

NORTH OF SCOTLAND SENIORS CHAMPIONSHIP - McLellan best of Ayrshire players

Ronnie McLellan (Turnberry) - pictured right - was the best placed of the four Ayrshire players who took part in the North of Scotland Seniors Open turnament at Nairn Dunbar at the weekend, the second event in the new Scottish seniors circuit.

Former Scottish Amateur Champion and current holder of the Scottish senior title, Ian Hutcheon (Monifieth) won the championship by 4 shots on 142, whilst McLellan shared 7th place on 152.

David Miller (Kilmarnock Barassie) was one shot further behind McLellan, on 153, with John Broadfoot (Turnberry) two shots further back on 155.

The remaining Ayrshire player in the field, Keith Howie (West Kilbride) finished well down the field on 161.

LEADING SCORES

142 - I C Hutcheon (Monifieth) 69 73
146 - P Tomisson (Nairn) 72 74
149 - G Paterson (Northern) 74 75, I Stewart (Curragh) 70 79
150 - G Maatman (Chicago 75 75
151 - R Paton (Nairn) 76 75
152 - J Fraser (Royal Burgess) 77 75, R McLellan (Westin Turnberry) 77 75, R Stewart (Tulliallan) 74 78
153 - A Fiddes (Murcar Links) 78 75, S Ellis (Cowal) 75 78, D Miller (Kilmarnock Barassie) 74 79
154 - G MacDonald (Callander) 78 76, R Edger (Blackpool North Shore) 77 77, J Paton (Kirkintilloch) 76 78, C Christy (Kilmacolm) 76 78
155 - R Grant (Caledonian) 79 76, J Broadfoot (Westin Turnberry) 78 77, B Grieve (King James VI) 78 77, D Smith (Stirling) 77 78, G Rees (Fleetwood) 76 79
156 - F Sharp (Boat of Garten) 78 78, K Bruce (Edzell) 77 79, F Urquhart (Inverness) 73 83
157 - D McQuade (Glenbervie) 78 79
158 - P Kinloch (Cardross) 81 77, J Kinloch (Cardross) 80 78
159 - M Lironi (Cathkin Braes) 82 77, D Bunker (Nairn Dunbar) 82 77, B Methven (Royal Aberdeen) 81 78, P Smith (Moray) 75 84
160 - C Moir (Worksop) 81 79, A Laird (Deeside) 81 79, C Alexander (Murcar Links) 79 81, J McDonald (Cowglen) 78 82, J Johnston (Royal Aberdeen) 76 84, M Jenkins (Duff House Royal) 76 84
161 - D Roy (Nairn Dunbar) 83 78, D Dodson (Temple) 82 79, A Elder (Kirkcaldy) 80 81, D McCart (Castlerock) 77 84, K Howie (West Kilbride) 76 85.

AYRSHIRE GOLF ASSOCIATION - Champion Of Champions semi final draw

The draw for the Semi Finals of the 2007 Ayrshire Champion Of Champions competition has been finalised, with the remaining quarter final games being completed over the weekend.

The semi final matches will be held at Royal Troon on Friday 3rd August, with the final a week later at the same venue.

In the first Semi Final, ALAN McLEAN (Kilbirnie Place) will face ANDREW KENT (Troon Welbeck).

McLean had a 3 & 1 win over Barry McDonnell (Caprington) in the quarter final whilst Kent had a notable 5 & 4 win over Bert Ferguson (Royal Troon) to dash Ferguson's hopes of a semi final match over his home course.

The second semi final features JOHN CAIRNEY (Irvine Ravenspark) against BILLY CAMPBELL (Ballochmyle).

AYRSHIRE GOLF ASSOCIATION - Welbeck join Irvine in Summer League Semi Finals

Troon Welbeck will play Irvine in the semi finals of the 2007 Ayrshire Summer League after coming out on top of League 1.

Welbeck secured their place in the last four with a 4.5 - 1.5 win at Ayr Belleisle to finish on 16 points.

Although Loudoun can match Welbeck's points total by winning the final match in the section against Tam O Shanter, Welbeck would still have a better tie difference, regardless of the margin of any Loudoun win.

Leagues 3 & 4 have still to be finalised.

In League 3, Ballochmyle and Moorpark meet at Ballochmyle with Moorpark needing a win to go through whilst Ballochmyle only require a draw.

In League 4, Ravenspark require a win in their final match, away to Troon St. Meddans, if they are to snatch the semi final place away from New Cumnock.

SCOTTISH BOYS STROKEPLAY - 10 Ayrshire boys in starting line up

10 Ayrshire boys, from 6 clubs, will tee up on Tuesday 24th July at Cardrona, near Peebles, in the 2007 Scottish Boys Open Strokeplay Championship, being held from 24th to 26th July.

Kilmarnock (Barassie) will have three boys in the field of 144 players, with Largs and West Kilbride having two each. The other local clubs represented are Whiting Bay, Turnberry and Troon Welbeck.

The first round starting times for the Ayrshire boys taking part are :-

0720 - EUAN BROWN (Kilmarnock Barassie)
0930 - KYLE SMITH (Kilmarnock Barassie)
1000 - MALCOLM PENNYCOTT (Whiting Bay)
1050 - SCOTT BROWN (Turnberry)
1210 - ANDREW ABERCROMBIE (Largs)
1230 - MICHAEL ROOS (West Kilbride)
1310 - CAMERON GRAY (West Kilbride)
1400 - MICHAEL STEWART (Troon Welbeck)
1430 FRASER LAWRIE (Largs)
1530 - DAVID CURRIE (Kilmarnock Barassie)

Sunday, July 22, 2007

AYRSHIRE GOLF ASSOCIATION - Maybole into Fourball semi finals

The Maybole pairing of Scott McCahill & David Wallace became the first team into the semi finals of the 2007 Ayrshire Fourball competition when they won the local derby against D. & G. McCulloch of Brunston Castle.

The Maybole pair travelled to Brunston castle and returned with a 3 & 2 win to go through.

Maybole now await the winners of the tie between Ballochmyle and Prestwick St. Nicholas in the semi finals.

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE - Ardeer dash St. Cuthbert hopes

Ardeer have claimed the second semi final place in the 2007 Ayrshire Junior Golf League Championship with a win in the Section C decider against Prestwick St. Cuthbert on Sunday 22nd July.

Ardeer won the match, at Ardeer, by 4 - 2 to push St. Cuthbert into second place in the section, and now await the draw for the semi finals which will take place in early August.

Saturday, July 21, 2007

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE - St. Cuthbert set up section showdown

Prestwick St. Cuthbert beat their visitors, Loudoun, by 4 - 2 on Friday 20th July in their penultimate match in Section C of the 2007 Ayrshire Junior Golf League Championship, to set up a section decider at Ardeer in the final match of the section on Sunday 22nd July.

With seven games played each, Ardeer lead with 16 points with St. Cuthbert just behind on 14. St. Cuthbert will require to win at Ardeer to go through whilst the home side need only a draw to reach the semi finals.

Friday, July 20, 2007

SENIORS BRITISH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP - Ayrshire players bid for places in final qualifying events

A number of Ayrshire golfers will be heading to the east coast over the weekend to line up at one of three venues which will hold final qualifying events for the 2007 Seniors British Open on Monday 23rd July.



The Seniors Open Championship will be played from 26th to 29th July 2007 at Muirfield.



The Qualifying event being held at Dunbar on monday will feature Prestwick professional and former Scottish Professional Champion Ross Drummond.

Amateur John Broadfoot (Turnberry) will take part in the qualifier at North Berwick.

The qualifying even at Craigielaw features 4 local players. Well known Ayrshire teaching professional Bill Lockie is joined by local amateurs Ronnie McLellan (Turnberry), David J. Miller (Kilmarnock Barassie) and Tony Stafford (Troon St. Meddans) as the quartet bid for a place in the championship at Muirfield.

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE - Prestwick St. Nicholas through to League Championship Semi Finals

As the 4 Ayrshire Junior Golf League Championship qualifying sections near completion by the end of July, Prestwick St. Nicholas have become the first team through to the semi finals as they lead SECTION B with an unbeatable points total.

St. Nicholas have had an impressive run, after losing their opening match in May, with 6 successive wins home and away in the matches played so far.

Recent results in the section are :- St. Nicholas 4.5 Barassie 1.5, Dalmilling 2 St. Nicholas 4, St. Meddans 0.5 Barassie 5.5, St. Nicholas 5.5 West Kilbride 0.5 and Barassie 4 St. Meddans 2.
The scheduled match between St. Meddans and Dalmilling has been treated as abandoned.

Present positions in the section are :-

PRESTWICK ST. NICHOLAS - played 7 - 24 pts
KILMARNOCK BARASSIE - played 7 - 16 pts
WEST KILBRIDE - played 5 - 14 pts
AYR DALMILLING - played 7 - 9 pts
TROON ST. MEDDANS - played 8 - 3 pts

In SECTION A, Ballochmyle lead the way, after a crucial 3.5 - 2.5 win away to nearest rivals, Caprington. In the other match played recently, Ravenspark shared the spoils with their visitors, Annanhill, in a 3 - 3 draw.

Present positions in the section are :-

BALLOCHMYLE - played 5 - 18 pts
CAPRINGTON - played 5 - 12 pts
IRVINE RAVENSPARK - played 4 - 6 pts
NEW CUMNOCK - played 4 - 6 pts
ANNANHILL - played 6 - 6 pts

In SECTION C, Ardeer lead with only two matches remaining, with Prestwick St. Cuthbert hoping to snatch the semi final spot from their grasp.

Recent wins by 3.5 - 2.5, both at home and away, over Troon Welbeck put Ardeer in pole position.

In a season of mixed results, Welbeck had a convincing 4.5 - 1.5 home win over Loudoun before losing the return match by 3.5 - 2.5.

Prestwick St. Cuthbert have a home match against Loudoun to negotiate in order to set up a possible showdown at Ardeer in the final match of the section to decide the semi final qualifier.

Present positions in the section are :-

ARDEER - played 5 - 16 pts
PRESTWICK ST. CUTHBERT - played 4 - 10 pts
TROON WELBECK - played 6 - 10 pts
LOUDOUN - played 5 - 4 pts

In SECTION D, Ayr belleisle look favourites to progress to the last four, althoguh largs have three home matches still to play as they bid to overtake the Ayr club.

Recent results in the section include :- Routenburn 3 Belleisle 3, Kilbirnie 1.5 Largs 4.5, Kilbirnei 2 Belleisle 4, Kilbirnie 3 Routenburn 3 and Belleisle 3.5 Routenburn 2.5.

The last three fixtures are all at Largs where the home side play Kilbirnie and Routenburn before facing a possible section decider against Belleisle in the final match in the section.

Present positions in the section are :-

AYR BELLEISLE - played 5 - 18 pts
LARGS ROUTENBURN - played 5 - 8 pts
LARGS - played 3 - 8 pts
KILBIRNIE PLACE - played 5 - 2 pts

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE - Welbeck set early pace in Wallace Thornton trophy

Troon Welbeck are the early pace setters in the 2007 Wallace Thornton Trophy competition.

Whilst there have been no results yet notified in Section 1, there have been four matches completed in Section 2 with Welbeck having a 100% record, with a 3 - 1 home win over Irvine Ravenspark and a 2.5 - 1.5 away win at Largs Routenburn.

Defending Champions Kilmarnock (Barassie) opened their defence with a 4 - 0 away win over Irvine Ravenspark.

In the other match played so far, Ravenspark and Routenburn shared the spoils in a 2 - 2 draw at Irvine.

Present positions in Section 2 are :-

TROON WELBECK - played 2 - 8 pts
KILMARNOCK BARASSIE - played 1 - 4 pts
LARGS ROUTENBURN - played 2 - 2pts
IRVINE RAVENSPARK - played 3 - 2 pts
LOUDOUN GOWF - played 0 - 0 pts

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE - Holders through to semi finals of Under 16 competition

Defending champions Kilmarnock (Barassie) have secured their place in the last four of the A.J.G.L. Under 16 Knockout competition, as their defence of the title continues.

Barassie eased through their quarter final tie with a 3.5 - 0.5 home win over Largs Routenburn to secure the first semi final place.

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR GOLF LEAGUE - Champion Of Champions quarter final results

The quarter final matches in the 2007 Ayrshire Junior Golf League Champion Of Champions competition have been completed, with the semi final draw due to be made in the first week in August.

Craig McLaughlin (Largs) received a bye to the semi finals where he has been joined by Gary Patterson (Ballochmyle), Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie) and Jared Williams (Troon St. Meddans).

Patterson and Brown both enjoyed home wins to progress to the last four, Patterson beating Callum Crowe (Kilbirnie Place) by 6 & 5 and Brown beating Michael Roos (West Kilbride) by 4 & 3.

Williams travelled to play Cieran Byrne (New Cumnock) in the quarter finals and recorded a 2 & 1 win to reach the penultimate round.

AYRSHIRE JUNIOR ORDER OF MERIT - Brown takes early lead


Euan Brown (Kilmarnock Barassie) - pictured right - is the early leader in the 2007 Ayrshire Junior Order Of merit, with the results of 5 counting events concluded so far.
In recent events, a runners up place at Prestwick St. Cuthbert, a fourth place at Largs and a win at Loudoun pushed Brown's total to 210 pts.
Malcolm Pennycott (Whiting Bay) is in second place, courtesty of a runners up spot at Loudoun and a third place at West Kilbride, whilst four players share third spot on 100 points.
The results of the competitions at Troon Welbeck, Girvan and Kilmarnock Barassie are still awaited.
Present positions are :-
210 - EUAN BROWN (Kilmarnock Barassie)
150 - MALCOLM PENNYCOTT (Whiting bay)
100 - MICHAEL STEWART (Troon Welbeck), CRAIG TELFER (Prestwick St. Cuthbert), CHRIS BUTLER (Irvine Ravenspark), ANDREW ABERCROMBIE (Largs)
85 - SCOTT CLARK (Ayr Belleisle)
75 - JAMIE ACHISON (Largs Routenburn)
70 - SCOTT BROWN (Turnberry)
50 - RORY ACHISON (Largs Routenburn), LLOYD SMITH (Kilmarnock Barassie), DAVID McLELLAND (Largs)
45 - CHARLES DOYLE (Troon Welbeck)
20 - ROBBIE WILSON (Ballochmyle), FRASER LAWRIE (West Kilbride)
15 - JOSH NORDBO (Largs)
10 - ROBERT JAMIESON (Loudoun), DAVID BROWN (Prestwick St. Cuthbert)
5 - KIERAN JOHNSTONE (Ayr Dalmilling), CALLUM STEWART (Ayr Belleisle)

Thursday, July 19, 2007

SCOTTISH AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP - 33 Ayrshire players in starting field

33 Ayrshire players will line up amongst the 254 competitors when the 2007 Scottish Amateur Championship is played at Prestwick Golf Club, from 30th July to 4th August.

The 2007 Championship will be the 8th occasion that the Scottish Amateur has been played at Prestwick, the last being in 1998 when Graeme Rankin was the winner.

Prestwick has historically been a happy hunting ground for local players in the championship with John Wilson (Prestwick St. Nicholas) - 1931, Hammy McInally (Ardeer/Irvine) - 1939, Cammy Gibson (Prestwick St. Cuthbert) - 1950, Dick Smith (Selkirk/Prestwick) - 1958 all winning over the historic links, whilst the 1979 winner at Prestwick, Keith Mcintosh (Cardross), now plays his golf there too.

Ayrshire will be assured of at least 5 players in the second round, with 5 all Ayrshire first round matches scheduled.

Detailes of first round ties involving Ayrshire players are :-

MONDAY 30TH JULY 2007

Match 1 - 06.45 - Lindsay Miller (Cawder) Vs. DAVID STRACHAN (Turnberry)
Match 13 - 08.21 - George Finlay (Ballumbie Castle) Vs. JOHN CAIRNEY (Irvine Ravenspark)
Match 14 - 08.29 - Craig Watson (East Renfrewwshire) Vs. STEPHEN MURRAY (Troon Welbeck)
Match 17 - 08.57 - JAMES BUNCH (Prestwick) Vs. Andrew McLachlan (Bonnyton)
Match 19 - 09.13 - ALEX. GOURLAY (Irvine) Vs. Paul O'Hara (Colville park)
Match 28 - 10.25 - STEVEN McEWAN (Caprington) Vs. Mark Dickson (Alwoodley)
Match 30 - 10.41 - Shaun McAllister (Craigielaw) Vs. CRAIG HAMILTON (Ballochmyle)
Match 38 - 11.49 - Neil cameron (King James VI) Vs. EUAN BROWN (Kilmarnock Barassie)
Match 40 - 12.05 - KEVIN FERGUSON (Prestwick St. Cuthbert) Vs. Malcolm davidson (Craigie Hill)
Match 41 - 12.13 - CAMERON GRAY (West Kilbride) Vs. Anthony Bewes (Murcar Links)
Match 42 - 12.21 - Graham Molloy (Wishaw) Vs. CRAIG McLAUGHLIN (Largs)
Match 44 - 12.37 - Liam McGowan (St. Andrews New) Vs. BRIAN MOORE (Largs)
Match 50 - 13.29 - Richard Elrick (Kilmacolm) Vs. GRAEME GIMSON (Prestwick St. Cuthbert)
Match 52 - 13.45 - Ross Kellett (olville Park) Vs. ROSS DIXON (Kilmarnock Barassie)
Match 66 - 15.41 - CHRIS HARKINS (Ayr Belleisle) Vs. Steven Higgins (Gourock)
Match 71 - 16.21 - ALLAN THOMSON (Prestwick) Vs. PAUL MOULTRIE (Troon Portland)

TUESDAY 31ST JULY 2007

Match 77 - 07.01 - BERT FERGUSON (Royal Troon) Vs. STEPHEN SPENCE (Irvine)
Match 88 - 08.29 - STEPHEN McBLAIN (Prestwick St. Cuthbert) Vs. John Miller (Gullane)
Match 91 - 08.57 - WARREN BLAIR (Troon Portland) Vs. Derek Paton (Dunnikier Park)
Match 94 - 09.21 - Kevin McAlpine (Alyth) Vs. DAVID ADDISON (Kilmarnock Barassie)
Match 95 - 09.29 - ROBERT McKNIGHT (Kilmarnock Barassie) Vs. DAVID CURRIE (Kilmarnock Barassie)
Match 99 - 10.01 - Callum Macaulay (Tulliallan) Vs. STEVEN WALLACE (Prestwick St. Cuthbert)
Match 101 - 10.17 - KEVIN BROCK (Prestwick St. Nicholas) Vs. ALAN McLEAN (Kilbirnie Place)
Match 108 - 11.17 - John Gallagher (Swanston New) Vs. GEORGE ROBERTSON (Irvine Ravenspark)
Match 110 - 11.33 - Colin Colraine (Windyhill) Vs. IAIN BROWN (West Kilbride)
Match 117 - 12.29 - Matthew Clark (Kilmacolm) Vs. JAMIE MACKAY (Kilmarnock Barassie)
Match 121 - 13.05 - MICHAEL STEWART (Troon Welbeck) Vs. KYLE SMITH (Kilmarnock Barassie)
Match 128 - 14.01 - MICHAEL SMYTH (Royal Troon) Vs. Euan McIntosh (Newmacher)

AYRSHIRE SUMMER LEAGUE - Irvine through to semi finals

As the qualifying sections in the 2007 Ayrshire Summer League near completion, Irvine (Bogside) have secured their place in the semi final line up.

In recent matches in LEAGUE 1, Loudoun and Belleisle both had narrow but crucial 3.5 - 2.5 wins away to tam O Shanter, whilst Troon Welbeck kept in the hunt with a 5 - 1 win at home to Loudoun.

With only two matches remaining, the present positins are :-

TROON WELBECK - played 5 - 12 pts (+7)
LOUDOUN - played 5 - 12 pts (+3)
AYR BELLEISLE - played 5 - 10 pts (-4)
TAM O SHANTER - played 5 - 6 pts

In the final matches, Troon Welbeck travel to play Ayr Belleisle whilst Loudoun host Tam O Shanter.

In LEAGUE 2, a 3 - 3 draw at West Kilbride secured the semi final place for Irvine. In the other match played recently, Kilmarnock (Barassie) had a 4 - 2 away win at Caprington.

Present positions, with two matches remaining, are :-

IRVINE (Bogside) - played 5 - 16 pts
WEST KILBRIDE - played 5 - 10 pts (-2)
KILMARNOCK (BARASSIE) - played 5 - 10 pts (-3)
CAPRINGTON - played 5 - 4 pts

In LEAGUE 3, Ardeer conceded their match to Moorpark, resulting in Ardeer's chances of a semi final place being dashed.

Present positions are :-

BALLOCHMYLE - played 3 - 8 pts
MOORPARK - played 3 - 6 pts
ARDEER - played 4 - 6 pts

The one match remaining will be a decider for the semi final place when Ballochmyle play host to Moorpark, with the home side, and defending champions, needing only a draw to progress to the last four.

In LEAGUE 4, a 3.5 - 2.5 home win over Troon St. Meddans was enough to put New Cumnock into pole position.

Present positions, with only the match between Troon St. Meddans and Irvine Ravenspark
remaining are :-

NEW CUMNOCK - played 4 - 10 pts (0)
IRVINE RAVENSPARK - played 3 - 6 pts (+1)
TROON ST. MEDDANS - played 3 - 4 pts

AYRSHIRE CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS - Campbell books semi final place

Billy Campbell (Ballochmyle) will line up alongside John Cairney (Irvine Ravenspark) in the semi finals of the 2007 Ayrshire Champion Of Champions competition, which will be held at Royal Troon on Friady 3rd August.

Campbell booked his place with a 2 & 1 home win over Nick Tindall (Tam O Shanter) in the quarter finals.

Results are still awaited from the other quarter finals between Alan McLean (Kilbirnie) Vs. Barry McDonnell (Caprington) and Bert Ferguson (Royal Troon) Vs. Andrew Kent (Troon Welbeck)

IRVAN RAVENSPARK BOYS OPEN - date change

The Irvine Ravenspark Boys Open will be held on

Tuesday 14th August 2007

and not Wednesday 15th August, as previously advertised on the site, earlier in the season.

AYRSHIRE GOLF ASSOCIATION - Ravenspark take Club Champions title

Irvine Ravenspark are the 2007 Ayrshire Club Champions in a nailbiting finish to the competition, held at Ravenspark on Sunday 15th July.

The Ravenspark team of Darren Mallinson, George Robertson and John Cairney (pictured right) edged out the holders, local rivals Irvine (Bogside), by virtue of the best third score, after the teams tied on a two score total of 138.

Cairney set the victorios team on their way with a best of the day score of 66, five under par. Robertson added a second score of 72, with Mallinson one shot further back on 73.

In defence of their title won at Ballochmyle last year, the Irvine (Bogside) duo of Henry Thomson (68) and John Shanks (70) combined to match Ravenspark's total, but Steven Spence's 77 was not good enough to overcome Mallinson's third score, which decided the tie.

Bert Ferguson (72), Steven Murray (70) & Del Chamberlain (69) took third place for Troon Welbeck on 139.
The CSS for the competition was 71.
The winning Irvine Ravenspark side now go forward to represent Ayrshire in the Scottish Club Championship final at Glenbervie on 30th September 2007.
FINAL RESULTS
138 - IRVINE RAVENSPARK (J. Cairney 66, G. Robertson 72, D. Mallinson 73) - best 3rd score
138 - IRVINE (BOGSIDE) (H. Thomson 68, J. Shanks 70, S. Spence 77)
139 - TROON WELBECK (D. Chamberlain 69, S. Murray 70, B. Ferguson 72)
141 - PRESTWICK ST. NICHOLAS (G. Lawrie 70, K. Brock 71, S. King 73)
142 - LOUDOUN GOWF (T. McInally 71, G. McCormick 71, P. Denim 73)
147 - BALLOCHMYLE (C. Hamilton 68, D. McKinnon 79, B. Campbell 80)
148 - TURNBERRY (R. McLellan 71, H. Devine 77)
150 - KILMARNOCK (BARASSIE) (J. Mackay 73, A. Leggate 77, D. Evans N/R)
151 - TAM O'SHANTER (R. Gemmell 75, J. Sloan 76, N. Tindall 77)
153 - AYR BELLEISLE (G. McPherson 74, K. Gimson 79, A. Hayes 83)
156 - PRESTWICK ST. CUTHBERT (G. Gimson 76, I. Morrison 80, M. Watt 83)

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

NORMAL SERVICE WILL BE RESUMED ASAP

Due to major computer problems I have been unable to update the site this week. I hope to get all the latest updates and news back on in the next few days

Friday, July 13, 2007

AYRSHIRE BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP - Closing date for entries approaching

The closing date for entries to the 2007 Ayrshire Boys Championship is approaching.

Entries for the 56th annual championship, to be held at Ballochmyle Golf Club on Thrusday 2nd August, close at Noon on Wednesday 18th July.

Entry for the 36 hole strokeplay championship costs £ 5 and there is a handicap limit of 12.

Players returning the top 8 scratch aggregate scores will contest the Ayrshire Boys Matchplay Championsip, at Prestwick Golf Club, from 9th to 11th August.

Entry forms should be available through Club Secretaries, or can be obtained by e-mail direct from The Championship Secretary at aj-malcolm@fsmail.net

EUROPEAN BOYS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP - Scotland lose to Italy

Scotland, with Michael Stewart (Troon Welbeck) in the team, were beaten by Italy in the first round of the matchplay on Thursday 12 June.

Michael Stewart was in the winning Scotland pair in the morning, as the foursomes were shared 1 - 1, but in the afternoon Scotland lost all but one of the singles, with three of the defeats being on the final green.

The match scores were :-

ITALY 5 SCOTLAND 2

Foursomes: 1-1

A Pavan & M Manassero bt J Byrne & N Henderson 2 and 1
C Vigano & C Terragni lost to P Shields & M Stewart 2 and 1

Singles: 4-1

A Chiapuzzo lost to Byrne 3 and 1
Vigano bt S McLaren 1 hole
Terragni bt A Campbell 1 hole
Manassero bt Shields 1 hole
Pavan bt Stewart 6 and 5

Other fist flight results :-

DENMARK 4 1/2, SWEDEN 2 1/2
ENGLAND 4 1/2, FRANCE 2 1/2
NETHERLANDS 4, NORWAY 3.

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

WEST OF SCOTLAND LADIES INTER COUNTY JAMBOUREE - Ayrshire defeated as Dumbarton & Argyll take the title

Ayrshire were defeated by 7 - 2 in their final match of the 2007 West Of Scotland Inter County jambouree, at Prestwick St. Nicholas on Wednesday.

After halving the morning foursomes with Dumbarton & Argyll, the Ayrshire side could not maintain theor form and were ultimately beaten by D & A, who secured the final place in the county finals at Tulliallan later in the year.

Lanarkshire beat Renfrewshire by 5 - 4 in the other match.

For full results log on to http://www.kirkwoodgolf.co.uk/

For photos and a short video from the three days, click on the link below (Photos/Video courtesy of Carol Fell)

Photos and Short Video

EUROPEAN BOYS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP - 70 by Stewart helps Scots secure top flite place

Michael Stewart (Troon Welbeck) was one of the top performers for Scotland in the second strokeplay qualifying round for the European Boys Team Championship on Wednesday.

A two under par 70 from Stewart, along with a three under par 69 from James Byrne went a long way to ensuring the Scots secured a top eight place in the competition.

As the competition now progresses to matchplay, Scotland face second seeds Italy on Thursday.

Qyualifying Scores :-

717 - NORWAY 364 353
719 - ITALY 357 362
722 - SWEDEN 363 359
726 - ENGLAND 364 362
731 - FRANCE 372 359
732 - DENMARK 371 361
733 - SCOTLAND 367 366 (J Byrne 69, M Stewart 70, P Shields 75, A Campbell 75, N Henderson 77 - Non-counter: S McLaren 79)
735 - NETHERLANDS 374 361

Match Play Draw

Italy v Scotland
Denmark v Sweden
England v France
Netherlands v Norway.

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

WEST OF SCOTLAND LADIES JAMBOUREE - Ayrshire back in the hunt after win on day 2

Ayrshire's hopes of reaching the county finals at Tulliallan this year were renewed on day 2 of the West Inter County Jambouree when they defeated Lanarkshire by 5 - 4 whilst the defending champions Renfrewshire went down by the same margin against Dumbarton & Argyll.

For full match details log on to http://www.kirkwoodgolf.co.uk/

EUROPEAN BOYS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP - Stewart helps scots to 5th place after day 1

An opening day 74 by Michael Stewart (Troon Welbeck) helped Scotland to fifth place after the first strokeplay qualifying round of the 2007 European Boys Team Championship in Denmark on Tuesday.

Performance of the day came from Stewart's Scotland team mate Sam McLaren (King James VI), who recorded a 4 under par 68, two shots better than the rest of the field.

FIRST-ROUND TEAM TOTALS

357 - Italy.
363 - Sweden.
364 - England, Norway.
367 - Scotland (S McLaren 68, J Byrne 72, M Stewart 74, P Shields 74, N Henderson 79. NC: A Campbell 82).
371 - Denmark.
372 - France.
373 - Ireland.

BELLEISLE OPEN - Maximum field expected for annual event

A maximum field of 180 is expected once again for this year`s Belleisle Open on Sunday 29th July, hosted by Ayr Belleisle Golf Club.

The annual event, sponsored this year by Reid Scott Ross, Independent Financial Advisers, in Association with County Saab, is open to all golfers with a recognised SGU handicap.

There are prizes in First Class, Second Class and Scratch with the best net score overall winning the Rozelle Cup.

There are also two sponsored prizes at every hole, one for First Class and one for Second Class, these being for a combination of nearest the pins and longest drives.

Entry fee is £9 (including sweepstake) and block entry forms have been sent to all the local clubs.

The closing date is Wednesday 18th July and entries can also be made by downloading an entry form from the club website

www.ayrbelleislegolfclub.com

Monday, July 09, 2007

SCOTTISH BOYS & GIRLS UNDER 14 CHAMPIONSHIP - Ayrshire well represented in starting field

Eight boys and five girls from Ayrshire will take part in the 2007 Scottish Boys & Girls Under 14 Championship, being held at Brunston Castle on Friday 13th July, on the day following the completion of the Under 16 Championship, at the same venue.

In a starting line up of 114 boys and girls, Kilmarnock (Barassie) provide three of the boys competitors in Thomas Gaunt, Jack McDonald and Ross Drain, with Troon Welbeck providing a further two, in Euan Walker and David Wilson.

The other three Ayrshire boys taking part are Patrick Timmons (Troon St. Meddans), Cameron McLean (West Kilbride) and Scott Liddle (Prestwick St. Nicholas).

West Kilbride have a strong representation in the girls event, with Connie Jaffrey, Rachel Howie & Mhairi MaKay all taking part.

The other two Ayrshire girls competing are Rachel Irvine (Largs) and Emma Hale (Troon Bentinck).

The competition will consist of 18 holes strokeplay.

WEST OF SCOTLAND LADIES INTER COUNTY JAMBOUREE - Ayrshire lose to holders on first day

Ayrshire lost to the holders, Renfrewshire, by 5 - 4 on the opening day of the 2007 West Inter County Jambouree, being held from 10th to 12th July at Prestwick St. Nicholas.

The other match between lanarkshire and Dumbarton & Argyll ended in a 4.5 - 4.5 draw.

For full reports on the matches, log on to www.kirkwoodgolf.co.uk

Sunday, July 08, 2007

SENIORS EUROPEAN TOUR - Drummond is top scot on money list

Ross Drummond from Prestwick, in his first season on the European Seniors Tour, has made an impressive start to the season with a number of top 10 finishes.

Whilst still awaiting his first win on the seniors circuit, his early season form leaves him the top placed Scot in the seniors rankings, in fifth place overall behind leader Eduardo Romero (Argentina), and two places ahead of fellow Scot Sam Torrance.

The top placings, after the London Senior Masters event are :-

1 - Eduardo Romero (Argentina) - 159,870 euros
2 - Carl Mason (England) - 158,020 euros
3 - Juan Quiros (Spain) - 122,259 euros
4 - Constantino Rocca (Italy) - 111,717 euros

5 - Ross Drummond (Scotland) - 104,386 euros
6 - Bob Cameron (England) - 82,734 euros
7 - Sam Torrance (Scotland) - 80,854 euros
8 - Jose Rivero (Spain) - 71,583 euros
9 - Nick Job (England) - 66,418 euros


With no European event scheduled last week, due to the US Seniors Open, Drummond's next opportunity to record his maiden win on the tour will come in the Open De France Senior De Divonne, which will be held at the Golf Du Domaine De Divonne, Divonne Le Bains, France from 12th to 14th July.

SCOTTISH BOYS UNDER 16 CHAMPIONSHIP - 7 Ayrshire players in field at Brunston Castle

7 Ayrshire players will be amongst the field of 120 who will contest the 2007 Scottish Boys Under 16 Championship at Brunston Castle from Tuesday 10th to Thursday 12th July, over 54 holes of strokeplay.

The Kilmarnock (Barassie) trio of Fraser Kerr, Lloyd Smith and Andrew Wright are joined in the championship by Josh Nordbo (Largs), Chris Butler (Irvine Ravenspark), Craig Goodwin (Loudoun) and Sam Findlater (Troon Welbeck).

Play on Tuesday begins at 0730 hrs.

EUROPEAN BOYS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP - Stewart represents Scotland in Denmark

Michael Stewart (Troon Welbeck) is a member of the 6 strong Scotland boys team who will contest the European Boys Team Championship at Rold Skov Golfklub in Denmark, from 10th to 14th July.

The Championship, involving the top 20 ranked countries in Europe, follows the same lines as the mens championship held last week at Western Gailes, with teams playing two rounds of strokeplay qualifying to determine which flight they will contest in the matchplay stages.

AYRSHIRE SUMMER LEAGUE - Competition for semi final places hots up as Turnberry withdraw from the competition.

As a result of difficulties in raising teams for matches, Turnberry have withdrawn from the 2007 Ayrshire Summer League competition.

Consequently, all points from the matches that Turnberry have already played have been cancelled.

Despite the withdrawal, competition for the four semi final places is keen, with the result of all four league still in doubt.

In LEAGUE 1, Tam O Shanter restored their hopes, whilst denting Troon Welbeck's aspirations, with a 3.5 - 2.5 home win in their recent match.

present positions in the section are :-

LOUDOUN - played 3 / 8 pts (+6)
TROON WELBECK - played 4 / 8 pts (+ 3)
TAM O SHANTER - played 3 / 6 pts (- 4)
AYR BELLEISLE - played 4 / 6pts (-5)

REMAINING FIXTURES :- Welbeck Vs. Loudoun, Tam O Shanter Vs. Belleisle, Loudoun Vs. Tam O Shanter, Belleisle Vs. Welbeck & Tam O Shanter Vs. Loudoun.

In LEAGUE 2, a recent away 3 - 3 draw at Kilmarnock (Barassie) consolodated Irvine (Bogside)' splace at the top, whilst West Kilbride maintained their hopes with a 4 - 2 home win over Caprington

Present positions in the section are :-

IRVINE (BOGSIDE) - played 4 / 14 pts
WEST KILBRIDE - played 4 / 8 pts
KILMARNOCK (BARASSIE) - played 4 / 6 pts
CAPRINGTON - played 4 / 4 pts

REMAINING FIXTURES :- Caprington Vs. Barassie, West Kilbride Vs. Irvine, Barassie Vs. West Kilbride & Irvine Vs. Caprington

In LEAGUE 3, Ballochmyle beat Ardeer by 5.5 - 0.5 at home, and now require to win their final match, at home to Moorpark, to carry on the defence of their title. Present positions in the section are :-

BALLOCHMYLE - played 3 / 8 pts
ARDEER - played 3 / 6 pts
MOORPARK - played 2 / 2 pts

REMAINING FIXTURES :- Moorpark Vs. Ardeer & Ballochmyle Vs. Moorpark

In LEAGUE 4, the withdrawal of Turnberry leaves only three teams. A recent 4.5 - 1.5 home win for New Cumnock over Irvine ravenspark leaves all three teams in with a chance of the semi finals, with only two fixtures remaining. Present positions are :-

IRVINE RAVENSPARK - played 3 / 6 pts (+ 1)
NEW CUMNOCK - played 3 / 6 pts (-1)
TROON ST. MEDDANS - played 2 / 4 pts

REMAINING FIXTURES :- New Cumnock Vs. St. Meddans & St. Meddans Vs. Ravenspark

AYRSHIRE CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS TROPHY - Cairney claims first semi final place

John Cairney (Irvine Ravenspark) claimed the first semi final place in the 2007 Ayrshire Champion Of Champions Trophy competition recently.

Cairney, the current holder of the Doc Thom Ayrshire Order Of Merit, beat David Glass (Prestwick St. Cuthbert), by 4 & 3 at Ravenspark, to claim the first of the four semi final places.

The remaining three quarter final ties are due for completion by 22 July 2007.

AYRSHIRE GOLF ASSOCIATION - Under 18 team draw again

The Ayrshire Under 18 team made it two draws from two in the 2007 Inter County League, with a 4 - 4 home draw against Lanarkshire at Loudoun on Sunday 8th July.

With some players unavailable through other committments, Ayrshire took the opportunity to bring three players into the side for their first representative county matches, and all three performed well in a close match.

the individual match details were (Ayrshire names first) :-

DAVID CURRIE (Kilmarnock Barassie) lost to BEN SLOAN (Colville P_ark) 2 & 1
KYLE SMITH (Kilmarnock Barassie) beat PETER SCANLON (Hamilton) by 1 hole
SCOTT BROWN (Turnberry) beat MARK McLEOD (Lanark) 4 & 3
JAMIE ACHISON (Largs) lost to MARK KELLY (Kirkhill) 2 & 1
ANDREW WRIGHT (Kilmarnock Barassie) beat RUDI McKENNA Colville Park) 7 & 5
LLOYD SMITH (Kilmarnock Barassie) lost to STUART WYLLIE (Mount Ellon) 3 & 2
CHRIS BUTLER (Irvine Ravenspark) halved with ALAN WELSH (Torrance House)
JOSH NORDBO (Largs) halved with DECLAN DOOEY (Easter Moffat)

AYRSHIRE 4 LANARKSHIRE 4

Ayrshire's next scheduled match is on 19th Ayugust against Dumbartonshire at Vale Of Leven

CAMERON CORBETT VASE - McKnight best placed Ayrshire player in national event

Robert McKnight (Kilmarnock Barassie) was the best placed Ayrshire player in the 2007 Cameron Corbett Vase competition, played over the weekend at Haggs Castle.

The scottish youth cap returned a four rond total of 279, 9 under par, but was still some 8 shots adrift of the winner, Wallace Booth (Comrie).

Fellow Scottish cap, Steven McEwan (Caprington) was a further two shots adrift of McKnight, on 281.

LEADING FINAL TOTALS
Par 288 (4 x 72)

271 - W Booth (Comrie) 69 66 67 69.
278 - R Kellett (Colville Park) 69 69 69 71.
279 - P Betty (Hayston) 68 69 71 71, R McKnight (Kilmarnock Barassie) 68 69 71 71, S Henry (Cardross) 67 69 67 76.
281 - C Watson (East Renfrewshire) 68 71 71 71.282 C Macaulay (Tulliallan) 72 70 74 66, J Mathers (Haggs Castle) 69 71 72 70, S McEwan (Caprington) 68 71 73 70.

Tuesday, July 03, 2007

THE EUROPEAN TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS - Western Gailes hosts major amateur event

Western Gailes is the venue this week for the European Mens Amateur Team Championship, which takes place from Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th July.

Play on Tuesday and Wednesday is strokeplay to determin in which of three flights the 20 competing countries will be placed for the matchplay contests which begin on Thursday.

Live scoring is available throughout the championship, on the championship website which can be accessed by clicking on the link on the left of this page.

CLUBGOLF YOUNG PROFESSIONALS PRO AM - McLure leads team to victory

David McLure, assistant professional to Gordon McKinlay at the Troon Municipal courses, led the amateur trio of John Duncan (6), Neil Jarvis (5) and Tom McCabe (18) to victory in the Clubgolf Scottish young professionals' championship pro-am at Muckhart Golf Club on Tuesday 3rd July. The team returned a net score of 17-under-par 54.

TROON LINKS CHAMPIONSHIP - Murray wins in extra holes

Stephen Murray (Troon Welbeck) won the Troon Links beating BertFerguson on the 20th hole over the championship course at Royal Troon, on Sat 30th June.

Stephen, the reigning Ayrshire matchplay Champion, was 3 down on the 7th to Bert but made a great comeback and take the title on the tenth anniversary of the Troon Links Championship win of his father, Ian.

Sunday, July 01, 2007

AYRSHIRE GOLF ASSOCIATION - Fourball quarter line up completed

The 8 teams in the quarter finals of the 2007 Ayrshire Fourball championship are now known, after the remaining third round matches were completed this week.

D & G. McCulloch (Brunston Castle) travelled to meet the Braehead team of Sean Ingle & Andy Paton and it was the visitors who won at the second extra hole.

T. McFarlane & T. O'Connell (NACCO) also required extra holes, in their home match against John Bonar & Jim Graham (Loudoun), winning through to the last 8 at the first extra hole.

In the other outstanding match, home advantage saw Alistair Nicol and John Duncan (Troon Portland) through with a 2 & 1 win over Frank Greer & Eamon McFadden (Troon St. Meddans).

The full Quarter Final Schedule is :-

D. & G. McCulloch (Brunston Castle) Vs. S. McCahill & D. Wallace (Maybole)

W. Andrew & J. McMurdo (Ballochmyle) Vs. A. Poole & G. Tierney (Prestwick St. Nicholas)

S. Linwood & I. McKinlay (Drongan) Vs. T. McFarlane & T. O'Connell (NACCO)

J. Hobson & B. Gibson (Irvine Ravenspark) Vs. A. Nicol & J. Duncan (Troon Portland)

All quarter finals are due for completion
by 12th August 2007