Bickerstaff Seals Maiden Victory at Wychwood

Long time tour member Gary Bickerstaff notched up his first win on Saturday at De Vere Wychwood Park.

On another packed out event Bickerstaff scored 35 points around one of the trickiest courses on the Gtour circuit.

“This is the type of course I like to play with narrow fairways and lots of water hazards to make you think about every shot. I felt I played very well in superb weather and the course was in very good condition.” Said Bickerstaff.

He continued, “I’m not as so much relieved but excited to get the first win under my belt and I’ve proved that I can win events like this with so many quality golfers. The confidence it has giving me for future events where I hope to make the Semi's and strive to make the final at Aphrodite Hills.”

The sun shone over Cheshire for the third event of the season as the players battled it out once again for the all important order of merit points.

Lee Parnham continued his early season form with another top-ten place. Parnham is the new leader of the Race to Cyprus after finishes of seventh, second and ninth respectively in the three events.

Tournament director Colin Astbury said the Race to Cyprus is really giving everyone that little bit more competitive edge:

“Everyone really wants to be involved in the two day semi-final at De Vere Belton Woods, at the minute that’s everyone’s aim and then whoever makes the top-ten from there will fully deserve the trip to Cyprus.

“I’m delighted for Gary (Bickerstaff) he’s such a genuine guy and I’m pleased he’s got his first victory on tour.”

Mark Tarling finished second on 34 points playing in his first ever event. He was followed closely on a count back by eagle tier winner Paul Strange and Matt Surgey who lead the 2010 order of merit going into the final event of last season.

Order of merit winner for the past two years Shane Davies added his second top-ten finish of the season along with Gary Walker.

Tim Hawkins playing in his third year on tour rounded up the top-ten alongside Parnham.

The next event on tour is a 64 player sell out at De Vere Wokefield park on Saturday 16th April where maximum order of merit points are up for grabs.

Results from Wychwood:

1. Gary Bickerstaff 35 points, 2. Mark Tarling 34 points, 3. Paul Strange 34 points, 4. Mat Surgey 34 points, 5. Shane Davies 33 points, 6. Richard Le Page 32 points, 7. Tim Hawkins 32 points, 8. Gary Walker 31 points, 9. Lee Parnham 31 points, 10. Ian Fearon. 30 points.

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