The first qualifying round of the Men’s & Women’s Club Championship was played on Saturday, 6 September in perfect spring weather, with the course presenting in outstanding condition. Players across all grades responded with some impressive scoring, setting the stage for an exciting championship campaign.
Men’s A Grade
Saxon Irvine leads the way with a superb round of 70, showcasing precision and composure. He’s followed closely by Robert Carson (72) and a strong group of contenders on 73, including Luke Hamilton, Brad Oliss, Gavin Payne, and Mathew Buckley.
Just one stroke back, Mason Brenton, Kurt Freeman, and Chris Whitton all posted 74, keeping the leaderboard tight. With several players within five shots of the lead, A Grade promises a thrilling battle in the rounds ahead.
Men’s A-Reserve Grade
Andrew Smith posted an outstanding 73, the lowest score in the A-Reserve Grade, and leads by three shots over Stephen Clarke, Garry Cross, and Martin Ryan, all tied on 76. Malcolm Hamilton (77) and a competitive group in the 78–82 range—including Max Wiggins, Shannon Hambly, Kane Bayliss, and Rodney Stewart—are well positioned to challenge.
The depth of scoring in this grade highlights the strength of the field and sets up a compelling second round.
Men’s B Grade
Colin Simmons set the early benchmark with a solid 81, edging ahead of Jasper O’Maley and Luke Dewhurst, who both carded 82. Jack Gandy (83) and a cluster of players on 84–85, including John Fitzpatrick, Richard Davies, Keaton White, and Dale Norman, remain well in the hunt.
With scoring tightly grouped in the low-to-mid 80s, consistency will be key in the next round for those looking to climb the leaderboard.
Men’s C Grade
Mathew Simpson and Billy Smith share the lead in C Grade after matching rounds of 83, with Dennis Corrigan (86) and Campbell Booth (88) close behind. A group of players in the 89–91 range—including Philip Davidson, Mark Latter, John Hay, and Geoffrey Cowled—remain within striking distance.
The spread of scores suggests plenty of opportunity for movement, and the second round will be crucial for those looking to secure a top finish.
Women’s A Grade
Jane Dell leads the way with a composed round of 79, setting the benchmark in A Grade. Just one shot behind, Franceska Payne posted a strong 80, keeping the pressure on the leader.
Gina Phillips (82) and a pair of players on 85—Carolyn Hunt and Darelle Angel—remain well in contention. Tracey Smith (87) and Stella Payne (88) are also within reach, while Jules Gibson and Trish Hensel both carded 89, rounding out a competitive top ten.
With the leaderboard tightly packed, the second round promises plenty of movement among the top contenders.
Women’s B Grade
Kathy Keenan leads Grade B after a solid round of 85, giving herself a comfortable buffer over the chasing pack. Sue Johnston and Sharon Whiting are tied on 95, followed closely by Janelle Gilmour (97) and Deborah Hildrew and Barb Driscoll, both on 98.
B Grade remains wide open heading into the next round.
Junior Championship
Jack Davy leads the Junior Championship after a solid round of 75, with Wil Kennedy and Franceska Payne both close behind on 80. With just five strokes separating the top three, the juniors are set for a competitive finish.
Men’s Senior Championship
Robert Carson holds the early lead in the Senior Championship with an excellent round of 72. He’s followed by Andrew Smith (73), with Stephen Clarke and Martin Ryan tied on 76, and Malcolm Hamilton just behind on 77. The leaderboard is tight, and the second round will be pivotal in deciding the senior title.
Looking Ahead
With the course in top condition and the weather continuing to cooperate, the second qualifying rounds are sure to deliver more great golf. Congratulations to all players on a strong start, and best of luck as the championship continues!
