Ben Brown lifted the Northumberland Union of Golf Clubs’ County Championship trophy for the first time following victory over Harrison Sewell in the event’s final at Arcot Hall.
Ben, who plays out of Backworth and is also a member of Bedlingtonshire, won the 36-hole final at Arcot Hall 3&2 having trailed Harrison by two holes at the midway break on the final day – despite chipping in three times in 11 holes. After lunch, Ben produced five birdies in eight holes to go 2up through 26 holes, and he maintained his grip on the game on the back nine, eventually closing out the match 3&2.
“I can’t quite believe I’m county champion, I couldn’t be happier,” said Ben.
Ben and Harrison progressed to the final with impressive results in the first three rounds of matchplay. In the round of 16, Ben beat Michael Stenhouse 4&3 while Harrison needed seven birdies in eight holes to beat Paul Caldicott. In the quarter-finals, Harrison beat Freddie McKenna 3&2 as Ben beat two-time county champion Mark Wharton 2&1. In the semi-finals, Ben overcame 2017 county champion Phil Ridden 3&1, while Harrison beat Angus Buchanan 4&3.
“After some tough matches all week, it was great to play Harrison in the final – we went to school together and we’ve played each other a few times,” added Ben.
“I knew I had to do everything right to beat him, and chipping in three times in the first round gave me a feeling it could be my day. I managed to hold on as he played so well in the morning, then went out and had five birdies in eight holes to get the lead in the afternoon.
“The final was the biggest thing I’ve played in to-date, so to get it done and put my name on the trophy is awesome. I felt as confident as I have on the course those final few holes – what a time to find that feeling!
“I can’t thank all the people who’ve supported me – my caddy Simon, my parents, and all the members at Backworth and Bedlington – enough. They were great all week and made the win and the celebrations afterwards so much more special.”
Meanwhile, The Renwick Medal, awarded to the leading player after the 36-hole strokeplay qualifying, went to county captain Andrew Minnikin for a fourth time following his rounds of 65 and 70.
Following his win, Ben is set to head to Eastern Wyoming College in August to join The Lancers’ NJCAA men’s golf team.
