01/06/2022
PGA Professional Garry Houston and Carden Park club Captain Andy Latham lifted the SkyCaddie PGA Pro-Captain Challenge trophy this evening after an incredible final day of action at the stunning Argentario Golf and Wellness Resort.
The Carden Park duo found themselves one shot behind leaders Salisbury and South Wilts (PGA Professional Andy Beal and Damian Hayes) at the start of play ahead of day two, and by the turn they had drawn level with their playing partners.
As Beal and Hayes dropped back off the pace on the back nine, attention turned towards the Irish partnership of PGA Professional David Mortimer and Gerry Cox from Galway Golf Club. They posted an impressive total score of 83 for the week.
However, Carden Park were able to hold off the challenge from Ireland and win by a single point at PGA National Italy.
Commenting on the win, Houston said: “Today was a little bit of a fight but we stuck in there and fortunately we played a pretty solid back nine and got the job done.”
A change in wind direction seemed to benefit the players in round two with the teams posting some stunning scores. PGA Professional Cameron Clark, who was representing Moor Hall Golf Club alongside club Captain John Bardsley, hit an incredible seven birdies in his round leading the Midland club to 44 points an overall position of tied third. Glen Portelli and Phil Kitchen of Old Fold Manor also had 44 points today, beating their score from Round one by 10 points.
Just eight shots separated first to last this week, which shows the quality and consistency on show at the SkyCaddie PGA Pro-Captain Challenge Final.
The brilliant golf was matched by the service given at PGA National Italy. Winning club Captain Latham said: “It’s a beautiful setting, the course is in fantastic condition and a great layout, really enjoyed it and the hotel has been fantastic too.”
Latham also thanked tournament sponsor SkyCaddie UK for their support during the championship. He added: “The devices were very helpful, they always are when you come to a golf course that is alien to you, you can figure out your strategy with it to an extent without even playing the golf course!”
CLICK HERE to view a full list of scores from round one of the 2021 SkyCaddie PGA Pro-Captain Challenge.
Six of the eight qualifiers for the 2022 tournament remain open. CLICK HERE to find out more and enter your club.