It’s been a quite a year for amateur golf in Great Britain and we asked some our leading players what were their stand-out moments and also asked them to look ahead to 2024
1) Your best round of the year and why?
Looking back on the year, I wish there was a larger collection to choose from for my best round! However, it’s going to have to be the second round at Troia GC, Portugal in the R&A STS last February. Although I only shot one under, it felt like a 63! By far the hardest course I have ever played.
2) Your best shot of the year and why?
Hard to choose between two shots, and ironically both happened within four holes. But I’m going to go for the high risk shot! It was during the 2nd round at Olgiata GC, Italy, again in the R&A STS. On the par five, 6th hole, my drive pulled slightly left and I was blocked out by trees. There was a small gap and a lake to carry. From 190, I managed to knock it to 15 foot. Shame to putt lipped out.
3) The best shot you saw and why?
The best shot I saw all year was by a 80-year-old, 25 handicapper strangely enough. I was caddying for him during the summer (I caddy at Kingbarns Links) and he got his first ever hole in one on the 13th hole in front of his three sons. Reminded me how special golf is.
4) Your favourite moment of 2023 (this could be personal or something completely random but golf related)?
Golf related: It was pretty nice winning back to back BUCS national finals with St Andrews Uni, the first time it’s ever happened in our history. Not golf related: Pretty enjoyed The Toon beating PSG 4-1. I’m lucky to have been to some great matches but that one is right up there.
5) Your hopes and ambitions for 2024?
I would love to get back to winning ways and play a more structured schedule. My first event is in Portugal in January with the Uni again, and can’t wait!
6) One thing you would change about about golf for next season?
Slow play. I hate it!