A dodgy start failed to derail Tom Hughes’ Rose Bowl challenge as the Formby player secured his first Apeiron Northern Order of Merit victory at Grange Park.
FORMAT: 36-hole stroke play
The 21-year-old, who has now moved up to sixth in the overall standings, has certainly taken a liking to the St Helens venue. Last year he was shot behind winner George Holland (Southport & Ainsdale) but this time it was his time.
Hughes finished two clear of former pro Luke Kelly (Ashton-Under-Lyne), battling back from dropping shots at the first and the fourth in the afternoon before closing things out with a four-under-par 68. It was the lowest score of the day.
“It was a hugely satisfying day,” said Hughes.
“I am good mates with Luke Kelly and knew he could shoot a low one so it was great to finish above him and so many other good players.”
RELATED: 2023 Northern Order of Merit Grand Final Corporate Am-Am – how to enter a team
After a poor approach was followed by a disappointing chip at the fourth, Hughes responded in the best possible fashion, eagling the fifth. His four iron from 207 yards finished just seven feet from the pin and he took full advantage.
He then got under par for his round two holes later as he went for it off the tee and was rewarded by leaving himself just a wedge in. He stuck his second at the seventh to ten feet and rolled one in down the hill.
On the back nine he took advantage of the two par fives (13 and 15) by getting close in two and then his short game did the rest.
He then reached six under for the tournament with another birdie at the 17th but almost three putted from 15 feet at the last, breathing a huge sigh of relief as his four footer for par dropped in via the side entrance.
Hughes now hopes to defend his WAGR-ranked Pilkington Rose Bowl title on Friday. The 72-hole event combines the Rose Bowl and Childwall Trophy, which last year Hughes finished runner-up in behind 2022 overall champion Jack Brooks.