Andy Minnikin’s stellar Northumberland county career continued with victory in the opening event of the 2018 season – the North & South Trophy at Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club.
Minnikin, who last lifted the trophy in 2015 as part of his clean sweep of the county’s strokeplay titles, shot rounds of 68 and 71 to win on countback ahead of The Northumberland’s Michael Burrow (68-71) and Westerhope’s Will Wilkinson (66-73).
“To win around Dunstanburgh is always a great start to the season,” said Minnikin. “I was in really good form going into the event having won over in Appleby at the start of the year and I’ve put some good work in on the practice ground.
“It was nice to have two really solid rounds at a tough track which doesn’t give up a lot of birdies.
“There weren’t any big moments; I was just really steady for 36 holes and made just four bogeys.
“Since then I’ve got my handicap down to plus-four, my lowest ever mark, which I’m really proud of while working a full week, having a busy family life and getting a bit older.
“There’s a lot to look forward to individually and in the county side this summer – I can’t wait to get out and play more golf.”
During the event, Wilkinson broke the course record at Dunstanburgh with a superb 66 in the first round. The Westerhope-based junior was selected to represent the men’s county side for the first time following his performance.
