Jake Hibbert made a big impression on his return from college life in the USA as he claimed his first Cheshire’s Mens Matchplay title at Sandiway GC.
The Delamere Forest teenager triumphed 2&1 in a see-saw final with Jon Beesley (The Mere), having only been back in the country a few days. He studies at Florida Atlantic University.
Hibbert only qualified in 11th from the 36-hole strokeplay – won by Liam Gobin playing on his home course – but was highly impressive in the knockout stages and carried on that excellent form against Beesley.
After a slow start, The Mere player was 1 up after six, the 19-year-old won nine, 10 and 11 to go two up.
Beesley did not relent and claimed 12 and 14 to bring the gamae back to all square.
A half at 15 set up a grandstand finish but Hibbert took the initative with a birdie on 16 and his opponent conceded matters at 17 having got himself into some trouble.
“After the slow start I felt in control on the back nine,” said Hibbert. “In fact throughout the matchplay I played really solidly.”
The strokeplay qualifying event took place on Friday with Gobin havimg led the way with a seven under par total.