Milne defies winds at Royal North Devon

Experienced Gary Milne showed the greatest control in 29mph winds to win by two shots at Royal North Devon’s challenging links course which defeated all the players in the latest Devon PGA winter medal.

The Woodbury Park teaching professional shot three-over-par 75 with just two birdies at the fifth and 17th and five bogeys over the oldest course in England.

But his pursuers fared even worse. New Staddon Heights club professional Dan Hendriksen claimed second helped by birdies at the seventh, 14th and 17th. But two double bogeys and four further dropped shots marred his round of 77.

Only two other players broke 80. His brother Paul, with one double, seven bogeys and two birdies, and Exeter's Golf and Country Club manager Ben Martin, with a sole birdie on the 11th and eight bogeys, carded 79.

Christian Vine (Woodbury Park) was the only other player to manage three birdies in finishing sixth on 80, two shots better than home professional Michael Wilson and Downes Crediton’s Barry Austin.

The Devon professionals donated £50 towards RND juniors and £20 towards the PGA Benevolent Fund.