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Encourage Junior event in Newcastle

On Monday 18th January, the Gungahlin Lakes Encourage Shield team being the winners of the 2009 pennant, had the privilege of representing the ACT in the inaugural NSW Encourage Shield state final which was held at Newcastle Golf Club. The event was conducted by Jack Newton Junior Golf. Other clubs represented were Hurstville and Dunhevid from the Sydney region and Toukley from the Central Coast.

The Gungahlin team comprised Sean Crilley, Ben Hogan, Mitch Perry, Scott Ritchie, Jaryd Larter and Zac Oxley. The two day event was conducted under match play conditions with every match counting towards the end result.

On day one, Gungahlin drew Dunhevid who were the winners of the Sydney competition in 2009. The Gungahlin team was right in the mix until the last few holes going down 3 ½ to 2 ½, so missing out on a place in the final on the following day. The second day had the boys in against Toukley and while they were beaten 4-2, they were certainly competitive. The highlight of the match was Ben Hogan’s glorious chip in on the 18th in front of Jack Newton to win his match.

Apart from the great camaraderie with the boys having a few days together, there was some valuable networking with the other clubs that will be beneficial not only to the Lakes club but also to the ACT DGA. Of course, the experience would not have been complete without all of the team, including officials, meeting the man himself, Jack Newton who went out of his way in ensuring that he met every one in the group.

Gungahlin Lakes thanks the DGA, especially Jim Jackson’s support in getting this event off the ground, and we hope that it grows into a valuable experience in the Junior Golf calendar.

Regards,
Rob Gordon