Backworth’s Steve Anderton lifted the Northumberland Seniors’ Championship trophy for the first time at Ponteland Golf Club.
Steve, who has won the county’s senior matchplay title in the last two years, won the strokeplay event for the first time with rounds of 72 and 74. Defending champion Sandy Twynholm (Morpeth) finished once shot back in second place, as Kevin Harmison (Newbiggin) finished third.
“I’ve wanted to win this one since I became eligible four years ago and I’m very proud to have done it,” said county seniors’ captain Steve. “I’ve lost in a playoff, finished second, and been in the top five twice, so to get my hands on the trophy before I’m 60 is great.
“Having swung it well on day one, I got to go head-to-head with Sandy on day two, and that round will be something I always remember. Having dropped a couple of shots on the first two holes, I was back tied with Sandy after nine. I played really solid on the back nine, and despite the almighty wind and rain which came in for the last two holes, I managed to get it round and get the win on the last.
“Two moments from the last green will stay with me – Kevin Cademy-Taylor putting first to let me have the final putt, and Sandy being the first person to come over and shake my hand – he was so happy for me and that was a great gesture from a great friend.”
In the R W Johnson Decanter for players over the age of 65, Paul Kester (City of Newcastle) took home the trophy with a 12 over-par score. The Tim Bull Cup, presented to the player with the best nett score on day one, was won by David Peel (Slaley Hall).
The top eight players will go on to compete in the matchplay event, also hosted by Ponteland.
Steve will also go on to represent Northumberland in the Senior Men’s County Champion of Champions at Woodhall Spa on September 12-13.
For full results, click here.
*This story was updated on August 4 following the publication of the Aug/Sept edition of Northern Golfer.
