A GREAT FINAL AND A WORTHY LADIES CHAMPION

Under threaten skies and viewed by a consider support from the Ladies Section Alison Gemmill triumphed for an incredible 22nd time, taking the Ladies Club Championship from debutante Debbie Peberdy at the 19th hole, following a titanic tussle when the match ebbed and flowed constantly.First blood went to Alison when her opponent nervously three-putted from close range at the 2nd hole. However, with grit and determination Debbie fought back to take a one hole advantage at the 5th before Alison squared the match with a superb up-and-down from a greenside bunker at the par 3 sixth.

That seemed to inspire the multi-time winner. A combination of accurate tee-shots and positive iron play saw her winning four holes in succession from the eight and take, what should have been a decisive lead, against her much less experienced opponent.

Not to be outdone, Debbie staged an amazing fight-back began winning 14, 15 and 16. Now on the last tee she was only one down. A shock was on the cards. Two beautiful shots took Debbie comfortably to the green, though still some way from the hole. Alison’s tee-shot found sand and although she found the putting surface in three, the fight-back was complete when two putts secured a winning par to take the match up the 19th.

The first extra hole was not short of drama. Debbie seemingly played herself out of the match after her third shot cannoned through the green. Holding her nerve she pitched to 15 feet and bravely holed for a par 5.
A twelve foot winning birdie now stood between Alison and the title. A confident stroke saw the roll into the middle of the hole.

Both Ladies provided a highly entertaining and competitive match, played in great spirit and watched by a appreciate crowd.

WELL DONE, DAVID

Newly crowned Junior Club Champion, David Wilson receives the trophy from Captain David Miller.

Superb rounds of 79 and 72 saw him tie on 151 with Euan Walker. However, one under par on the three-hole playoff, saw David take the title for the first time.

AN EXCITING CLIMAX TO THE JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP

David Wilson edged out Euan Walker in a three-hole playoff for the Junior Championship.

Tied on 151 for the two rounds, the boys headed for the first of the playoff holes. Despite uncharacteristic wayward drives both hit superb second shots and recorded birdie fours.

The second of the playoff holes saw David launch a mighty 260 yard drive into the wind. Whilst Euan blocked his tee-shot right, he found a good lie and crunched a 7-iron onto the green, 30 feet from the pin. David took a more conservative approach, leaving his approach 18 feet short. Euan’s putt stopped 3 feet short. When his next putt lipped-out and his opponent’s was plumb centre and dropped, it was advantage.

David.Safe play from David and cavalier attacking shots from Euan still saw the title go David’s way for his first home victory.

WELL DONE, ROBBIE

Newly crowned Club Champion, Robbie Fulker, receives the trophy from Captain David Miller. It is also significant Los Hombres are partnered in the Coronation Cup (the foursomes competition) and are at the semi-final round.

Another title for Robbie? ...don’t bet against it!!

THE PETER PAN OF PITCHING AND PUTTING!!!

Robbie Fulker rolled back the years to take the Club Championship for the fourth time. He triumphed by two strokes over his younger opponents ...younger by more than 40 years.

A superb round of 77 during the worst of the wind on Saturday, followed by a one-under par 71 on Sunday gave Robbie a well-deserved victory. Leading contender after day one, Jim Milligan, who was in the final match with Robbie said he had never seen him play so well in the wind. “Seldom did his shots go above 20 feet,” said Jim. “He controlled the conditions superbly.”

Robbie’s first title was back in 1982, at the tender age of 36, followed by successes in 1989 and 2003. I am sure Robbie won’t mind me saying it, but at 64 it shows that senior golf still has a lot to offer.

Will 2011 be title number five? It just would not surprise me ...and many of the members!!

WE HAVE A WINNER

Ray Allen took the first of the trophies with a steadily constructed 76. Seldom in trouble of the tee, and together with some positive putting and an element of scrambling, when required, Ray received the McLean Trophy from Vice-Captain Douglas Orr. The cup was donated 1995 by Past Captain Miller McLean, in an effort to support the interest in the second round of the Club Championship, by hosting a separate handicap competition, over the same course

ROUND TWO ...AND IT’S ALL TO PLAY FOR

Club Secretary, Donald Wilson, gets the second round of the Club Championship under way. Can Jim Milligan hold his one shot advantage in the windy conditions? ... will James Morrison hold his consistency for the second round? ...will the evergreen Robbie Fulker roll back the years for a victory for the ‘mature’ generation? ...will youth and exuberance triumph?

THE MCLEAN TROPHY GETS UNDER WAY

Alex Watson is the leading player to tee-off at 8.30 this morning, in quest for the McLean Trophy ...followed by 22 of his fellow club members, in what can only described as ‘blustery conditions’.

CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND

Zephyrus, the Greek god of the west wind, certainly had an input into the destination of the many Championship titles held over this weekend at Kilmarnock (Barassie) Golf Club. Gusting to over 30mph for most of Saturday and Sunday, the conditions increased the challenge for the four Championships, decided annually over this weekend, the Men’s Club Championship, the Junior Championship, the Ladies Club Championship and the McLean Trophy.

A WEEK IS A LONG TIME IN GOLF!!!

Just seven days on from the glorious weather and excellent golf played at the final of the Boys Amateur Championship, 35 of Kilmarnock Barassie’s best took to the links to contest the first round of 36 holes to decide the Club Champion for 2010.

The field included past winners, county and international players. Barassie can, in fact, boast a wealth of golfing talent.In what could only be described as a torrid wind, the first group teed-off at 8.30.

The greens were slick, having been cut only a short time earlier. Whilst the first proved a relative kind start for the players, from there it was downhill, and who could manoeuvre themselves and their golf ball better than the rest.

The top 24 scores qualify for the second round, played on Sunday, and the cut, being wholly wind dependent, was as expected higher than normal. Jim Milligan, ex-Walker Cup player leads the field, together with Past Captain James Morrison with a superb 76, given the conditions. Robbie Fulker trailed by a shot with the remaining 21 players fighting for the minor places.

Tomorrow is another day ...the forecast is similar ...around 4 o’clock we will have the 2010 Champion. Who will be? The jury, at the moment is still out

TOMORROW IS ANOTHER DAY

Everything is back to ‘normal’, is there is a normal at Barassie at the moment, with a lot of ambitious plans in the pipeline. All the paraphernalia has gone; the only things to be left to go are the Portakabins.

The Captain and your intrepid reporter ventured out to test the Links, the speed of the greens and ferocity of the pin positions. Our better ball was 69, which included six birdies; not too bad for a couple of 'mature' guys and would give those 'youngsters' a run for their money

Even with a slightly biased hat on, Barassie is an excellent advert for links golf and is certainly worthy of a visit from all you golf addicts.

Give Donald Wilson a phone or visit our website and arrange a game. You, I can guarantee, will not be disappointed!!

A CLOSING WORD

David Miller, Captain of Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club, in his speech made reference the contribution the Club continues make in supporting Junior Golf and thanked the R&A for selecting Barassie to host the Championship.

He complemented both players on the way they, and all the other boys conducted themselves in such a proper manner, emphasising they were a credit to the game of golf, their countries, their associations and most of all themselves.

His closing words paid tribute and thanks to all the many volunteers and Championship Committee who made the tournament such a success.

‘Finally, for the efforts of Glen Ranson, Club Steward and his staff, Ruby Rowan, Club Caterer and her staff, Gregor Howie, Club Professional and his merry men and Club Secretary, Donald Wilson and the administrative team, I must say a very big, Thank You,’ added David, 'but I couldn't close without recognising the work of Brian and his greenstaff who got the course into superb condition for the Championship. The 'big man', I know, had many a sleepless night thinking about the winter damage, especially to the greens, the lack of rain just a few weeks from the competition. Brian, you are your guys, did an amazing job; the club is proud of everything. The comments of the players and the R&A says it all. As our Spanish winner would say, muchas gracias y bien hecho!'

A GARDEN OF EDEN??

During his acceptance speech, the new Champion acknowledged the contribution of the Spanish Academy of Golf, his coach, his caddy and his parents back in Spain. He also spoke well of everyone involved with Kilmarnock Barassie, complementing the quality of the course singling the ‘gardener’, Brian Findlayson.

Brian has been called many a thing, but never a gardener ...Alan Titchmarsh look out??

Brian will probably never live this down, and the jokes are have already been hitting hard and fast. Brian (AKA Adam the Gardener), seen here with his brother (AKA brother of Adam the Gardener) share a joke about Adrian's comment.

A GALLANT RUNNER-UP

It’s never difficult to have sympathy for the ‘one who came second’ ...after battling through the two qualifying rounds and five games of match-play to fall just short.

On the day, Adrian proved too strong. Max can be proud of his efforts, always knowing, at only 17, he will have a great chance next year when the Championship goes to Burnham & Berrow.

THE THREE CABALLEROS

With his coach and his caddy, Adrian can bask in the glorious weather and glorious win.

I am not sure what they are feeding their young golfers in Spain, or what they are putting in the paella, but they are making them big and strong (SGU take note). His caddy, who also played in the Championship, tops the scale at over 13 stone, is over six foot in height ...and is only 15! He will be eligible to play in another two Championships, and must be a certain prospect for the title.

A WORTHY CHAMPION!!

David Miller, Captain of Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club, presents Adrian Otaegui with the Boys Amateur Championship Trophy.

Adrian proved certainly a worthy winner and has a great future in golf. However, having a post-victory chat with Adrian, he still has his feet on the ground. Not 18 under later in the year, he spoke very maturely about remaining amateur for a while and taking guidance from his coach before considering turning his efforts to the professional ranks.

15 FEET FROM DISAPPOINTMENT!!!

Adrian watches intently as his opponent examines the line and the pace of the putt. Drop it and they are off down 16, maybe just extending the inevitable. Miss and we have a new Champion.

Sadly, despite his best effort, Max’s ball takes more break than he had expected and we have winner.

Adrian Otaegui is the Boys Amateur Champion, 2010

18 FEET FROM GLORY!!

Down-hill ...slight break from the right ...pace absolutely critical ...steady the nerves ...deep breath ...firm stroke

The ball slips past, only inches on the left ...que pena!

Make the putt, Max, and take the game down 15!!!

WHO DARES WINS ...BUT!!

A pulled drive to the left down 15 presented Max with a challenge and a decision. Should he play out sideways just short of the green and hope a pitch and putt? Should he take-on the challenge of the tall trees that blocked his direct route to the green and hope for a birdie at best? After all, he did drop a superb putt a few hours earlier. Like a brave cavalier, Max opted for the aerial route, only to see his ball fall to earth.

Adrian, meanwhile hit towering wedge to 18 feet short of the hole ...advantage Espana!

With pure golfing genius, Max, not from the best of lies in the rough and also with a wedge, sends his ball 15 feet past the hole ...there is still a title to play for!!

MORE FAIRWAYS HIT ...MORE PUTTS DROPPED!!

The bogey 6 at the first must have served as wake-up call to the young Spaniard as he contrived to win four out of the next seven holes. However, he failed make par on the ninth, three-putting for a bogey five, albeit from a very difficult position. It might be fair to assume this would be his least favourite hole on the testing Links Course at Barassie, as he also bogeyed in the morning round to lose the hole.

ALMOST WITHIN TOUCHING DISTANCE

After a few more practice shots on the driving range, a nervy start to the second 18 saw Adrian lose the first hole to a par 5. In fact, both players were totally out of character, having recorded birdie on every other occasion they played the 507 yard hole.

Adrian Otaegui - BOYS AMATEUR CHAMPION 2010

Adrian Otaegui takes the 84th Boys Amateur Champion with a 4&3 victory over Max Rottluff.

There will dancing in San Sebastian today, castanets clicking, flamencos twirling.

OLE ....OLE ...OLE ...ARRIBA, ARRIBA

VIVA ESPANA ...ESPANA POR FAVOR

18 HOLES GONE, HOW MANY MORE TO SETTLE THE TITLE???

Club Captain, David Miller, sees the boys off on the final 18 …or maybe less …or maybe more …to be crowned Champion. Fairway-splitting drives, as you would expect.

Who will triumph? Will there be flamencos and fiestas in Spain? Will there Steins in Germany? The next few hours will have that answer!

MANANA? NOT THAT FAST!

Spaniard Adrian Otaegui is in relaxed mood, as he shares a joke with his caddy before he steps on the tee, and hopes to take the 84th Boys Amateur Crown, following in the footsteps of Olazabal and Garcia.

A LITTLE SCRAPPY, DOWN THE STRETCH

It is always an advantage to attack the last 6 holes at Barassie. And so it proved with five out of the last six changing hands, it some cases rather cheaply. Par figures were good enough at 13, 14, 16 and 17, while 15 was won with a superb birdie putt from the most difficult of positions.

At 14, Max’s hopes were nearly buried in the sand when he took two to get out of a green-side bunker. At 16 his putt lipped out, as did a very tidy effort at the last of the first 18.

ONE IS NEVER ENOUGH!!!

Spaniard Adrian Otaegui takes a one hole advantage into lunch. Whilst round in 71 as against 73, Adrian had a hard-fought battle against his German opponent. Both players were steady through the first 9, reaching the turn all-square. A bit of fluctuating fortunes saw the game move to Adrian's advantage.

A TOUCH OF NOSTALGIA

Guest starter for the first round of the 84th Boys Amateur Championship is Past Captain David Wishart. A former Club Champion of Barassie, David was delighted when asked to be starter. With a long association with golf and the Club, there is another claim to fame …David had the pleasure in 1971 of presenting the trophy to winner Howard Clark.

WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT!!

This delightful piece of silverware is what our two protagonists hope to be holding in a few hours time. They may appear calm, but there is no doubt their nerves are jangling, their hearts pumping, all ready to hit the important first drive.

THE DUEL IN THE SUN

As the two opponents finalise their preparation on their first step to golfing greatness, all the signs point to a repeat of the famous match between Watson and Nicklaus way back in 1977. Kilmarnock Barassie has kept the best to last. There is not a cloud in the sky ...the sun is bright ...there is no wind ...and the course is in superb condition.
Will the sporting gods give Spain a hat-trick of wins ...the European Championship, the World Cup and now the Boys Amateur? ...or will Germany's determine approach triumph?
Time will tell, as it all gets under way in just over 30 minutes ...30 nerve-jangling minutes to get the drives honed to perfection, the putts straight and true get, but most of all, the head in gear.
Will it be Hasta la Vista or Auf Wiedersehen? Two rounds and eight hours and we shall know

auf Wiedersehen

The second semi-final was more of a ragged affair, with holes changing hand regularly, in some cases, just given away. Jeff Hopkins, a big-hitting boy from Skerries, final succumbed to the dogged determination and touch-play of Max Rottluff, his German opponent. Two down early on, Jeff pulled it back and went one to the good after 12 holes. However, loose shots at 16 and 17 and it was auf Wiedersehen, Jeff.

The final is played over 36 holes tomorrow with two great players vying for the cherished crown of Boys Amateur Champion.

This is a match not to be missed especially by the aficionados of the great game of golf.

Let’s wish both boys all the very best

OLE …OLE …OLE

Spanish maestro, Adrian Otaegui graduated through to the final of the Boys Championship at Kilmarnock Barassie. A devastating show of pinpoint driving – never missed a fairway, solid iron play – superb distance control, steady putting – single putting on numerous occasions.

The afternoon match against his German opponent lacked the cut and thrust of the morning match, but nevertheless was not short of excitement and drama. Reaching the turn in 35 strokes, the game was all-square, but birdies at 11 and 13 set the grounds for a victory. When Leitmannstetter’s drive found the burn on the 15th, it was all over but the shouting. A steady par saw Adrian take the match 4 & 3, and place in the final, coincidentally against another German, Max Rottluff.

Let’s wish him well tomorrow.

HASTA LA VISTA, SENOR

It’s ‘Viva Espana’ all the way back to San Sebastian, when our Spanish hero, Adrian Otaegui, finally triumphed over the Championship’s leading contender, but it took him 22 holes and a superb birdie 2 to do it.

Julien, however did not go down without a fight. He gave a display of putting which have graced any professional event. At one down on the 18th and Adrian leaving his approach putt stone-dead, Julien struck his attempt with perfect pace and accuracy …the result, a birdie three, all-square match and off down the 19th.

A birdie from each player sent the game to the 20th, though again it took another superb putt from our French Monsieur to do it. Two scrappy bogey 5’s, the result of slack tee-shots, extended the game to another extra hole. Superb tee-shots, but followed by somewhat in approaches suggested a possible end to the contest, especially when Julien’s ball end against the back lip of the greenside bunker. Adrian pitched to two feet leaving the pressure on his opponent. An imaginative shot left Julien with a 25 footer for a halve. A touch of putting genius saw the putt drop, and the players trod to hole 22.

While a super-save shot saw Julien’s ball on the centre of the green, it was Adrian’s turn for poor fortune. A kick to the right and into the semi-rough, though still pin-high, it meant he would be first to play and attempt quite a difficult pitch. Advantage La France.

However, the golfing Gods still had something to add ..Lob wedge, punched low with a lot of back-spin saw the ball pitch 10 feet short and its perfect pace saw the ball drop for a superb birdie 2. Advantage Espana.

Could the putting magician do it for a fourth time. Having examined the line from every angle, he struck the putt with authority and pace. Sadly, the ball failed to take the break and missed right.

Game Over!!

Both players showed amazing camaraderie, chatting between shots and walking the fairways in a very relaxed mood. This tussle would certainly have graced a great final.

SIZING IT UP

Scott Gibson’s attention to detail was rewarded when reading the line to perfection with an eagle 3 at the 491 yard Par 5 16th …Drive …Wedge …Putt …job done, thanks!

ANGER MANAGEMENT COURSE REQUIRED

Even the calmest of us all get a little ragged when the tension begins to mount. So much so that one competitor, having contrived to three-putt the 16th ...the third putt being under two feet, in anger slammed the flag back in place, but managed to damage the hole. Sadly, his act of aggression had the need of repatory action and a few words of caution from the R&A. Calm is the name of the game and the way to success, especially in golf.

THE LAST OF THE SPANISH ARMADA

Adrian Otaegui is last remaining representative from Spain but will be hopeful of following the famous footsteps of his Iberian greats including Sergio Garcia and Jose Maria Olazabal. And at three up after four, he just might be on his way. His opponent is Scott Gibson from Southerness.

THE TRICOLOR CONTINUES TO FLY HIGH

Will it be Vive La France? Julien Brun launched a majestic start with a fairway-splitting drive down the first. Not to be outdone, opponent Paul Lockwood was equally impressive. And at 3 up after 6, he just might be rehearsing La Marseillaise.

HIGH NOON ...for some!!

While not yet the ‘Duel in the Sun’, our golfing hopefuls having their skills tested to the limit. The wind, again from the northwest, is the key factor and the ability to use it to your advantage has been a feature in many of the result. Success in links golf is always dependent on mastering the wind and less of a ‘target game’. Front-runner Julien Brun certainly has done that with a 5 & 4 victory as have Scottish hopefuls Scott Gibson and Ewan Scott, but maybe those could draw a bit of domestic knowledge when it comes to the challenge of the wind.

Hole 14, a long par 3, is proving difficult. Very few players are hitting the green with the front bunker right being one of the ‘favourite’ spots. It is playing well over its par.

In contrast, the par 5, 16th is surrendering under the power of these prodigious boys. Highlight of the morning has been a superb eagle 3 from Dermot McElroy from Ballymena.

In Recognition of...

Last night the R&A held their traditional Championship cocktail party.

As principle host Club Kilmarnock Barassie had the pleasure of welcoming a variety of guests, including representatives from Dundonald Links and Irvine Bogside, but the main reason for the event was to recognise the contribution of the many volunteers who give their time to making the Championship a success.

Championship Director, Keith Andrews, spoke, thanking everyone for their input. Club Captain, David Miller, replied on behalf of the volunteers and everyone involved with the organisation of the Championship singling out the unsung heroes behind the scenes including Club professional, Gregor Howie, caterer, Ruby Rowan and Club Steward, Glen Ranson.

Special mention was given to Brian Findlayson, the Course Manager, and his team without whom the Championship would not have been possible. The course was is superb condition, which was recognised by everyone concerned, not least the players, who after all had to master the challenges of the set-up.

Friday the Thirteenth; Unlucky for Some?

As our young hopefuls tee-off on their quest for golfing glory, perhaps the 13th is a significant date, at least for the superstitious amongst us, and sportsmen, especially golfers are at the top of that list. They have the colour of their shirts, number on their golf ball, favourite marker and of course their pre-shot routine.

Frenchman Julien Brun lead the field at 7.30, under blue skies but also a freshening wind. So the challenges from the course are still at their devilish best. Will he triumph? Time will tell  ...there are another 31 out there standing in his way, hoping that superstition falls everywhere else but them.

If you're heading off to the sunshine of Barassie in Ayrshire to watch the British Boys Championships today, you can check the order of play for the morning ties at the R&A Website just now.

The sixteen ties started with Julien Brun at 7.30am this morning and will be followed by the round four ties after lunch.

The golf is getting increasingly competitive and it should be a great day for spectating.

Strong Winds Need Strong Wills

As play progressed through the latter part of the day the wind not only has moved round to the difficult northwest but also has significantly increased in strength. The players are having to draw on their every experience in an attempt to master the trying condition. Several holes are proving a battle of wills, with the elements usually coming out on top.

The demure gentle looking Par 3 fourth hole is biting back with vengeance. Players are finding the burn running along the left, or if they are fortunate, find a dry spot even forward left.

The Italians Are Coming

Three Italian Golf Bags at the side of the Practice Green

Young maestro, Domenico Geminiani leads the challenge of the Italian boys as he tees off against local hopeful Liam Johnston from Dumfries and Galloway.

The success of young Italians in Ayrshire comes as no surprise given the amazing performance just down the road at The Open Championship at Turnberry last year when British Amateur Golf Champion 16 year old Matteo Manassero of Italy qualified to play all four rounds of the British Open Golf Championship.

A number of Italians have qualified this week to play in the matchplay stages and you wouldn't be surprised to see one of them lift the trophy on Sunday

Follow the leader!

The second round got under way in bright blue skies at Kilmarnock Barassie.

Julien Brun from France, leading qualifier with a score of 142 teed off against Sebastian Schwind of Germany.

After a brief chat with starter Alex Orr, both players hit excellent drive down the 509 yard Par 5 opening hole, setting up birdie or even eagle opportunities and just maybe the chance to strike the first blow on the way to a win and another step towards the title.

On the Title Trail!!

The matchplay rounds of The Boys Championship got under way at 8 o’clock this morning at Kilmarnock Barassie, under what promises to be a hot day but by way of the weather and the competitiveness of the challenge.

Jack Heasman, of West Essex, struck the first drive followed by fellow competitor, Jens Geweke from Germany, both to a round of applause from the starters, officials and spectators.

Leading qualifier, Julien Brun from France, tees off at 9.00 against Sebastian Schwind of Germany.

Let’s wish the boys all the best.

The image galleries are being uploaded on the Barassie Facebook Page throughout the day

Towards the Matchplay

The mark is set  ...and tomorrow is another day!

The qualifying score for the match-play games in the Championship, as predicted finally rested at 154, which equates to 9 over par. While high, it is understandable given the testing conditions and the challenges of the pin positions and perhaps a style of golf course these boys are not familiar with.

Even as the final call was made and the shadows lengthened over the putting green at Kilmarnock Barassie our Iberian cousins continued to practice in the eager hope of make the cut. Players, coaches, friends and relatives all gathered round the scoreboards as the marshals posted the final numbers.

With all the match-play games now over Kilmarnock Barassie, let's wish the boys good weather, long drives, true putts and all the best for the next four days.

All of the scores and indeed scorecards can be viewed on the official R&A website

French Leader Brun's Form Holds Up

Consistency is what it's all about!!

Julien Brun, from France, continued his good scoring on the second of the Boys Championship. He followed his 66 over Kilmarnock Barassie on Tuesday with a 76 over Dundonald Links in extremely challenging conditions. With 142, he is the well-deserved clubhouse leader.

Qualifying Score Dropping?

The Tension is Growing!!

As the wind rises, the qualifying score. like the temperature has dropped. At 5 o'clock with around 70 players still to return, the projected cut has gone down to 155. The suggestions are that it is likely to settle at 154, increasing the disappointment to those boys on the border-line.

The Tension Mounts as Second Round Approaches End

1. The Tension Mounts!!

With Round 1 Julien Brun of France still out on the course and Jeff Hopkins of Skerries with an aggregate of 144 (Barassie – 71 and Dundonald 73) has set the target in the Clubhouse, our young pretenders are on the edge of their seats waiting to see if they will qualify for the match-play part of the competition. The top 64, and ties, will back tomorrow again to take on all the challenges Barassie has to throw at them.

2. Think of a Number

Just what will the qualifying score be? At 4 o’clock 64 players and ties were sitting on a score of 156, no too unreasonable given the fact that the wind has strengthened and moved direction to the northwest. Members of Kilmarnock Barassie will tell you that is the most difficult to achieve a good score, especially when the pressure of gaining that all-elusive qualifying target is always in your mind.

Brun leads the way after opening 66

France’s Julien Brun led the way with a seven-under-par 66 as the rain-delayed first day of the 2010 Boys Amateur Championship, which is taking place at Kilmarnock (Barassie) and Dundonald Links, came to a close. 

Brun teed-off at 7.22am at Barassie in the third game of the day, enduring six holes of torrential rain before the sound of the klaxon rang out to let players know that play had been suspended. Well over an hour later, with the 18-year-old on level par, play resumed. Brun immediately made back-to-back birdies on the par-four sixth and par-five seventh, reaching the turn in 34, two under par.

He would go on to start and finish the inward nine strongly, with birdies on the 10^th and 11^th, and the 17^th and 18^th, punctuated by a two on the 210-yard, par-three 14^th.

His 66 leaves him three shots clear of England’s Jake Harrison and Frederik Hammer of Denmark, both of whom signed for the second-best round of the day at Barassie with four-under-par 69s.

“I’m really very happy with today; my round, it was very good,” said the French boys international. “My ball-striking was really good today and also my putting. It’s my last chance to play this year so I really want to do well,” he added.

Currently in a six-way tie for third after his first round is Italy’s Domenico Geminiani, who, in May at the Italian Open, became the youngest player to compete on the European Tour. The 14-year-old was playing his first-ever round of links golf today, responding to the challenge well with a three-under-par, first-round 70.

“It was my first time playing links golf and it was very nice,” said Geminiani, who is coached once a month by David Leadbetter in Florida. “The rain didn’t bother be too much – I started with an eagle, then went bogey, bogey, birdie, so I was one under when the delay came.

“You have to hit it much lower on links courses, especially in the wind. You’ve got to swing it much smoother – you can’t just go at it 100% the whole time. I just tried my best, and my best was good today.”


One of five tied with Geminiani on three under par is Long Ashton’s Adam Carson, whose 69 was the low round of the day at Dundonald, three shots better than anybody else could muster at the venue. Having gone out in 35, one under the card, Carson made three consecutive birdies at the 12^th, 13^th and 540-yard, par-five 14^th to reach four under, before slipping back with a bogey at the last.
Barassie member Jack McDonald, along with his Scotland team-mate Grant Forrest, the 2010 Scottish Boys Champion, slipped up over the closing holes. Both tarnished what would otherwise have been good rounds.

“I’m a bit disappointed,” said McDonald, who posted a 75, two over par. “I had a bad finish with a bogey at 17 and a double-bogey at the last. But I’m only two over and I just need to get into the top-64.”

Forrest, who opened at Dundonald with a six-over 78 said: “I played well, but just had a nightmare on the last three holes. I was one over after 15 – I birdied the hard par-three – but I triple-bogeyed the next, parred the 17^th and then I doubled the last for six over. One over will be a good score round there, so I’m still confident of my chances of getting through to the match play.”

Full hole-by-hole scores from each and every competitor can be found by clicking here.

The second stroke play qualifying round gets underway on Wednesday at 7.00am. 64 players and ties for 64^th will progress to the match play stages, which will be staged solely by Barassie.