Adams wiser after strokeplay triumph

Martin Adams expressed his surprise at winning the PGA in Hampshire’s first major of the season, The Be Wiser Strokeplay Championship.

The Swanmore Golf Centre pro, 28, finished two shots clear of morning leader James Ablett with a five under 137 at the Army GC.

Ablett from Lee on the Solent had to settle for second place while Hockley’s Jack Stubbington was five shots further back in third.

Adams and Ablett were the only two players to finish under par over 36 holes.

After winning nearly £1,000 in prize money, Adams said: “I did not think I was ready to win one of the four majors, so I am very pleased.

“My short game was the key. I got up and down a few times and that kept me going. I felt as though I was sneaking in from behind, coming from four back.

“I have been playing well up to this point but not really getting the scores to match the performances. It is the first time this year I have actually produced the scores. Every year I am trying to improve.

“Playing on Tour? I had those dreams when I was younger. I have come to realise it is not me. I am happy to play in these events and do well.”

Ablett said he was disappointed and frustrated by his display, adding: “My putting is very inconsistent at the moment. One round I can have 28/29 putts, the next 36.

“I am throwing six maybe seven shots away in two rounds over three to four feet. Where I need to be seems a long way off.”