Watts the story

James Watts (Kingsway Golf Centre) made the perfect start to life in the East with a convincing win at Essendon in the first of two spring Qualifying Schools.

Watts, 30, finished on seven-under-par, four shots clear of a group of five players who tied for second over the Old Course.

The first-year trainee PGA professional shot an opening 69 to trail first-round leader Nathan Day by four strokes. 

But Watts swiftly launched his second-day challenge for top spot with an eagle at the long third hole.

There was the odd bogey on his card but a glut of five birdies more than made up for those as he raced to victory.

Halfway leader Day was unable to replicate the brilliance of his opening 65. He found the going tougher in the second round, slipping back into that cluster of players on three-under-par.

James Mynott (St Ives) and Luke Goddard (Hendon) both shot 68 to climb into a share of second spot alongside Day.

Phil Abbott (John O’Gaunt) and Mitch Kierstenson (Beadlow Manor) recorded respective rounds of 69 and 71 to complete the quintet tying for runner-up honours.

The second Qualifying School takes place at Essex Golf and Country Club on April 19-20. After it has been completed all players that have competed in the two Q Schools will be given a ranking status ahead of the region’s five Order of Merit tournaments.