Farrier-Twist looking for a happy return to Farleigh

24/07/2023

Two former winners will be in the field when the Coca Cola PGA Assistants’ Championship is contested at Farleigh Golf Club for the third time.

And for Sedlescombe Golf Club’s Michael Farrier-Twist, that marks a return to the scene of his greatest success since joining the PGA’s training scheme.

It was at the Surrey venue two years ago that the left-hander held his nerve to defeat the three-time DP World Tour winner Kenneth Ferrie in a play-off and win a tournament that was first staged in 1930.

By contrast, defending champion James Walker had a less stressful journey en route to adding his name to a list of winners that includes Tony Jacklin, Peter Alliss, Dave Thomas and Barry Lane.

Walker, the 29-year-old son of PGA Master Professional Graham who represents the Oaks Golf Club, York, finished three shots clear of the field at Royal Cromer, Norfolk, last year.

He was also among the 144-strong field at Farleigh two years ago and will be looking to replicate his five-under par 67 in the final round that ensured a top 10 finish.

Meanwhile, Sutton Coldfield Golf Club’s Patrick Ruff fared even better at the sister venue of Foxhills Club and Resort, the stage for the 2022 PGA Cup.

Ruff, who came tied-ninth last year, posted three sub-par rounds two years ago to finish third, three shots adrift of Messrs Farrier-Twist and Ferrie.

Harry Casey of the Shire, London, also boasts a good record in this event. Tied second three shots behind Walker last year, he finished eight at Farleigh in 2021.

Moreover, he will go into the tournament that carries a £29,000 prize fund buoyed by a 12^th place finish in last week’s English PGA Championship at Bowood.