Bedfordshire County Golf
Finals Day
Many thanks to Bedford & County Golf Club for hosting our finals day today - 20th October. Despite heavy overnight rain the course was in fine condition and provided a good test of golf for the climax of the County Matchplay Championship and the Mid Handicap League.
The 2013 Final of the Mid Handicap League was between Leighton Buzzard Golf Club and Luton Hoo Golf Club.
On this wet, blustery day both teams played very well with Luton Hoo taking an early lead by winning the first two matches. Leighton Buzzard fought back however, to level the tie at two matches all. The final match went the distance with Leighton Buzzard needing to win the 18th for a half and to send the tie into extra time, but Luton Hoo hung on to claim this final point to give them a 3 - 2 victory.
Many congratulations to them for winning the competition at their first attempt. Team Captain, Michael Barrett is shown below being presented with the Trophy by County President Clive Allen.
In the morning semi finals of the County Matchplay, Alex Bithrey (South Beds) beat Gary Munro (Bedfordshire) and Mark Carter (Dunstable Downs) beat Paul Kitching (The Millbrook). After a short lunch break, County Referee Mike Smith from Bedford & County started the Final.
It was a tight match all afternoon played in a wonderful spirit. Mark took an early 2 hole lead, but was quickly pegged back to all square by Alex and some super golf from both players still had them all square after the 18th hole meaning a sudden death play-off.
At the first extra hole both players hit good tee shots and Alex was first to hit his second shot. His approach finished about 5 foot from the pin but Mark tugged his slightly and it was a little long and left. He recovered with a great chip to within 'gimme' range and it was conceded as a par 4 by Alex who now had a birdie putt to win the match. He cooly rolled it in to become the County Matchplay Champion for the second consequtive year - as County President Clive Allen was to say later, "not bad for a 16 year old". Well done to both players and congratulations to Alex Bithrey on his victory.
Alex is pictured below receiving the trophy from the County President.
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