Crowe ready to swoop again at Ilkley

Ross Crowe has fond memories of Ilkley where he defends his mi.pins PGA in England & Wales (North) Assistants' Championship on Friday (May 3).

He won a play-off last year less than eight months after joining the paid ranks and going under the tutelage of Westerhope professional Mike Nesbit.

"It was just the incentive I needed," recalled the former Northumberland County player who despatched Bradford's James Sibble at the first extra hole.

"To get a win under the belt so early in my career was a great confidence booster. I had a few decent finishes after that," added 28-year-old Crowe.

"Unfortunately, I failed to qualify for the Europro Tour but I admit I didn't play well."

Sibbles is not in contention this time but Graham Neville who matched the leading score of level par 69 is. The Mere assistant failed to arrive on the tee in time for the play-off but hopes there will be no repeat of that lapse.

Fleetwood's David Corsby, who won the assistants' order of merit, is expected to be one of the main contenders at the scenic Yorkshire course.

The 18-hole tournament is sponsored for the first time by London-based web platform designers mi.pins which has a GPS base connecting people though an App to most forms of activities including golf.