Hickling extends Order of Merit lead with Blacknest win

Stoneham’s Adam Hickling has strengthened his position at the top of the PGA in Hampshire Order of Merit after winning the Blacknest Pro-Am with a four-under-par 65, writes Ken Gaunt.

The Stoneham assistant chalked up five birdies in his round to finish clear of Oak Park’s Tom Hutchins, Portsmouth Golf Centre’s Mark Sawford and Sandford Springs’ Chris Blunden, who all tied for second spot with 67s.

Hickling, who won the county’s Stroke Play Championship earlier in the season, now has his eyes on another top title. He will be among the favourites for the 36-holes PGA in Hants Masters, sponsored by Be Wiser Insurance, at South Winchester GC on Wednesday (August 28).

Hutchins, Sawford and Blunden are also taking competing while Corhampton pro Ian Roper will defend his title. The good and the great are taking part with Gary Stubbington and Shaun Hall, two and three in the OOM, no doubt aiming to put pressure on Hickling.