Johnson wins despite late slips

James Johnson admitted his victory at the Galvin Green PGA Assistants’ Championship South qualifier could have been even greater.

Johnson, of Guildford’s Bramley Golf Club, won the event by one shot ahead of Cooden Beach Golf Club’s Colton Davis after carding a five under par round of 67.

It means a third successive final for the 23-year-old who has just completed the final year of his PGA exams.

But Johnson felt he could have done even better at the event which was held at Farleigh Golf Club in Surrey.

“I had a couple of silly bogeys on my way back in after making an eagle at the 14th hole,” said Johnson.

“The thing is they were the holes that shouldn’t have given me any trouble.

“I was a bit annoyed with myself as I should’ve made seven under par. But I’m pleased to qualify for the final again.”

In all, 21 assistant professionals from the south of England qualified for the £32,000 final which will be held at Coxmoor Golf club in Nottinghamshire between August 2-4.

“It’s a new venue for me and I like that. I want to do better than I have in previous finals,” he added.

“I’ve got through every time but I like Farleigh in particular so I was feeling comfortable about qualifying.

“I made the cut in the first final I took part in - but I was rubbish last year! So I missed the cut then.

“Now that my exams are out of the way I can concentrate on my game more - that’s my aim 100 per cent.

“But I’m glad to have the PGA qualification behind me as it means I can also do coaching which I enjoy as I like being with people.

“I played nationally as an amateur, but I know want to use the PGA to further my career.

“It’s like a trade that’s with you for the rest of your life.”