Two lead the pack

Frilford Heath’s own Robert Harrhy tied at the top alongside Harry Konig (Tiverton) after Round 1 of Q-School Final Qualifying at Frilford Heath.

On conditions a million miles away from those witnessed in the opening stage of Q-School, it was Harrhy and Konig who lead the field on -6 with cards of 66. Harrhy completing his round with four birdies in a row to finish up going in the clubhouse as the leader. Konig hitting an eagle on the par 5, 6th hole was a standout moment on an impressive round for the American.

Going into Round 2, amateur Owen Crooks (Bushfoot) finds himself in a strong position tied third with -5 alongside Sam Stillwell, Gareth Evans (Wrexham), and Robert Burlison (Enville). 7 players in total finished on -5.

Donnington Grove’s tied winner from the first stage of qualifying, Lars Buijis from Royal Antwerp went -4 after his initial round.

Former international cricketer Sean Ervine teed off alongside Sam Locke (Paul Lawrie Golf Centre), and American Andrew Arft. The three coming into the clubhouse on +2, par and +2 respectively.

A lively par 3 hole 6 with two bunkers and a water hazard, proved a great success for Samuel Whitaker (Blankney) who shot a hole-in-one, finishing -2, 70.

Whitaker said: “I played well today, I was a bit disappointed when I found the water on 3 but didn’t let that affect my round. We couldn’t see the hole from the tee, but on the line, I hit it on, I knew there was a chance of a hole in 1. I’ve only ever had 2 before today and as for another one tomorrow, we will have to wait and see.”