Northamptonshire’s Simon Lilly made the long journey to the west country worthwhile by repelling the challenges of PGA Cup players James Ruth and Matt Cort to win the North Devon Links Festival at Saunton.
Lilly, who represents Wellingborough Golf Club, had begun the final leg of the 54-hole tournament trailing Ruth and Cort by a shot on seven-under par following the first two rounds.
He followed up his six-under par round at Royal North Devon on day one by negotiating Saunton’s West course in one-under.
“I received an email from the PGA saying there was one team space available, so I asked the lads if they wanted to play and they jumped at the chance,” he explained.
“It’s turned out to be a great three days, the courses were in good shape and the weather held up. It’s been a very good trip.”
Lilly’s base in the Midlands means his chances to play links courses are few and far between, nevertheless he rose to the challenge presented by the two venues and the windy conditions.
“It was quite windy this week for us but that’s probably normal for here,” he added. “We’re not used to these conditions – there were a lot of crosswinds, and it was a good challenge. I drove the ball well, kept the ball in play and my putting was reasonable.
“Form wise, I’ve had a rough year really, but the last few weeks have been alright. It’s good to get a win towards the end of the year.”
Meanwhile, the Stableford format team competition with the best two scores from four counting on each hole was won by Cort and his trio of amateurs. Averaging a nett birdie and par on each hole, the quartet amassed 277 points between them to finish 24 clear of the field.
CLICK HERE for the full results from the North Devon Links Festival at Saunton.
