Play-off win for on-form Bell

Mark Bell overcame a dramatic play-off to win the annual PGA in Middlesex Par-three Championship at Dukes Meadows Golf, Tennis and Ski Centre.

The Wyke Green pro won the Brian Eady Trophy at the second hole of a play-off with Darren Bragg (North London Golf Academy). Both players were level par 54 after 18 holes. Bell had five birdies and Bragg had two.

The first play-off hole was halved in par. At the second hole Bragg’s tee shot pitched pin high but bounced 20-feet from the edge of the green. Bell put his ball on the lower level of the green some 35-feet away.

Bragg’s chip ran on to leave him on the green 30 feet away leaving the door open for Bell. Bragg made a brave attempt with his putt missed by nine inches. Bell made no mistake with a three foot putt to make a winning par.

Neil Paggett and Malcolm Henbery, both from the home club, were third and fourth. Paggett signed for one-over-par with Henbery three-over. Lee Curling of Grims Dyke was fifth at four-over-par. Seven players signed for five-over-par and four more at six-over.

A highlight of the day was an impressive hole-in-one for James Wood (Highgate) at the 132-yard 12^th hole. He used a 50 degree wedge.

Bell and Pat Carr were the winning team with net seven under par 47. Second, third and fourth places were settled on count back with pairs who all signed for 49. Runners-up were Paggett and Gary Carter, third place went to Bragg and Chris Muir. Mike Vandenberg (Wyke Green) and Tony O’Brien were fourth.