Youngster and his pro celebrate tournament success

PGA Professional Alistair Welsher (left) has helped a Surrey youngster to hit the headlines at the tender age of 14.

Just 18 months after picking up his first set of clubs, Reigate Heath’s Sam Jones (right) has claimed his first victories on the Lee Westwood Golf Tour. 

The Tour is aimed at youngsters under 21 years of age, and offers a prize of a week-long golf trip to Florida for the overall winner.

Jones’ latest victory came at Piltdown Golf Club, just weeks after his first victory on the Tour at Seaford, which he won by eight strokes following a nett score of 60.

The victories leave him joint top in the Order of Merit standings with just two events remaining.

The teenager has been developing his skills under the tutelage of head professional Welsher since the start of last year, and together they have significantly reduced his handicap while also experiencing success in junior matches for the club.

Welsher said: “When I came to Reigate Heath I could see that Sam had some real potential, and he showed everyone else that when he scored a nett 60 at Seaford.

“He started to realise he enjoyed playing golf a while ago, but actually competing in these tournaments has shown him a whole new aspect of the game, and he really loves it.

“With two wins under his belt so far, we’re all hoping that Sam will keep his cool and show us what he can do at the next two venues.”

Jones is continuing to take one event at a time, and, regardless of any success he achieves, his main aim is to continue to enjoy playing golf.

He said: “I have always loved playing golf, but playing in the Lee Westwood Tour events is brilliant fun.

“I’ve got just two more left to build up my Order of Merit points tally, but I’ll be trying my hardest and putting in some practice with Alistair and my Dad.”

Jones will now play the final two events of the Lee Westwood Golf Tour at Littlestone on August 16^th and Hemsted Forest on August 22^nd.