Walley aims for a trickier Masters

The Midland Masters returns once again to Kedleston Park and the highly regarded Derbyshire layout is ready and in pristine condition for two days of competition later this week, culminating with the 36-hole pro event on Friday, the third in this season's Midlands PGA Order of Merit events.

Matt Cort (Rothley Park) triumphed here last year on his way to the overall title and the manner in which he did so has inspired Kedleston's Head Pro and current Midlands PGA captain Ian Walley into making things just a little more challenging this time around.

“Matt ripped up the course last year (63,66) and played superbly but we've made a few alterations that should toughen things up a bit for this week” Ian explained. “We've made the rough a little thicker and two new tee boxes will make things a little different. Currently the greens are running at 10.5 which is quicker than last year as well.”

Cort has had a relatively quiet start to his season by his own high standards, Peter Baker, the ex-Ryder Cup star (South Staffordshire) and Christopher Evans (Wishaw) currently share top spot in the Order of Merit table after the first two events and both take part among the 78 strong field.

Preceding Friday's main event is the curtain raising Pro-Am, taking place the day before, Ian was delighted to point out that it's a fully booked one with 40 teams taking part.

The club are indebted to the help and support from main sponsors Evans Concrete Products from neighbouring Alfreton, their Project Manager Chris Mcbride is looking forward to the two days.

“We are delighted to be sponsoring the prestigious Midland Masters for the fifth consecutive year at Kedleston Park, we wish all of the golfers the very best of luck in the competition.”