Ruth takes halfway lead at Saunton

James Ruth confirmed his status as one of the top players in the West after taking the lead in the 36-hole Marston’s PGA West Region Championship. 

The St Mellion man’s skilful seven-under-par 64 at Saunton featured a remarkable run of five birdies over the final seven holes. He only managed par fours on the 14th and 15th as he played the back nine in 31 shots. 

The 28-year-old Challenge Tour player also opened with birdies at the third, fourth and ninth and dropped his only shot at the fifth to lead going into the second day.

But he needed to be wary of his nearest challenger as he went into today’s second round. Liam Bond won the first three Race to Woodbury Park tournaments he entered this season.

The Marriott St Pierre pro lurks just one shot behind after he recovered from a bogey five on the first to weigh in with seven pars. He was out in 33 and back in four-under 32.

Richard Woods (Dainton Park), who first burst on the scene in the Bournemouth Fourball Festival, is two further shots behind. An eagle three at the third to go to three-under-par was the highlight of his 67.

A cluster of five players share fourth on 68, among them former European Open champion Stephen Dodd. He was joined by PGA Cup player Nick Brennan (Bowood), Adam Frayne (Yelverton), Alistair Tresidder (Sherborne), Kelvin Aitken (Chippenham Golf Centre) and Joe Ferguson (Celtic Manor).

With nine players on 69 the field remains finely balanced, with everything to play for in the final round.