Goodwood Juniors top West Sussex League

With the course in good condition and the sun shining the group teed off, led by 11-year-old Joe Sykes who has had a terrific year, including finishing second in the US Kids European Championships. Sussex Under-18 player Jake Stoneham was his opponent and a player in serious form, as Joe went down 5&4 with Jake 2-under par.

Alfie Simpson went out second for Goodwood and after a fairly even match he found himself 2 down after the 14th. He played the next four holes 1 under par to win 2 up. It was an impressive round as he carded 3 over par.

Match three saw Peter Davies fight back from two down with some very straight hitting, to beat his opponent 2 up. In match four Johno Beadles found himself playing a close game and even when three down going down to the 16^th, he maintained his composure. After a big drive down the 17^th fairway he hit the flag and bounced out of the hole with his second shot, but his birdie putt ensured that the match went the full 18 and ended up halved.

Jamie Burchell's match was a game of two halves. He went six up through seven but was then hauled back after the turn and lost four holes on the bounce. It was getting tense but he halved 16 & 17 to win 2&1 having played some very steady, impressive golf.

The last match saw Drew Sykes out against his Sussex under-12 team mate Harry Malin. They played a very tight match in great spirits, which went backwards and forwards throughout. In the end the four shots he had to give Harry proved decisive and he went down 2&1.

The overall 3 1/2 to 2 1/2 win means the Golf At Goodwood team will progress to the regional stage as the West Sussex League winners.

Chris McDonnell, Golf At Goodwood Academy Manager, said; “Congratulations to all the juniors who've played in the league this season. This result reflects the hard work that these young players have been putting in on the course and on the range. The future looks really bright for the next generation of Goodwood golfers. Next stop, The Open!”