Consett & District’s John Kennedy was crowned Scottish Senior Men’s Open champion after a monster birdie putt on the penultimate hole helped him secure victory at Montrose Golf Links.
John posted rounds of 67, 70 and 72 for a four-under par total and a two-shot win over Glasgow Golf Club’s John Laurie.
Locked together in the lead at three-under par, the leading pair faced similar birdie putts on the 53rd hole.
In the event’s defining moment, Laurie left his birdie putt 5ft short while Kennedy drained his from 30ft. The Durham golfer then saw his advantage increase as Laurie missed his tricky par putt. That left the way clear for Kennedy to make a steady par at the last and take the title by two shots from Laurie – with Glenbervie’s Richard Johnston third.
“I can’t quite put this win into words at the moment,” said Kennedy. “I’ve won a few county titles, but this is the first national title I’ve won. Turning 55 last year gave me a new spark. I knew I was playing nice golf so pitching up and winning a national championship is an incredible feeling. I’m really proud.
“I parred 16 and while I was in the 17th fairway, I looked at the leaderboard and I knew I was level with John and thought if ever there was a moment to hole a putt this was it. I had a really good read on the putt and fortunately I hit it where I wanted and it popped into the hole. A great feeling.
“My brother has been caddying this week – I can struggle to see the ball at times and I use yellow golf balls, and the one thing Gary can do is read a green. He confirmed what I thought so he does get some kudos for that one!”
Kennedy added: “When we knew this was the venue, I booked a holiday lodge not too far away and every day we’ve played, hit some balls and gone back to the lodge, put the hot tub on and had a few beers. It’s been a relaxing holiday – don’t tell the missus!”
