By Martin Dempster - The Scotsman
John Kennedy holds off John Laurie and Richard Johnston in exciting finis
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duo John Laurie and Richard Johnston were denied by Englishman John
Kennedy in an exciting finish to the Scottish Senior Men’s Open at
Montrose Links.
Helped
by holing a monster birdie putt on the penultimate hole, Durham-based
Kennedy won by two shots after posting scores of 67-70-72 for a
four-under-par total.
Glasgow Golf Club member Laurie finished as his closest challenger after
scores of 67-70-73, with Glenbervie man Johnston ending a further shot
back along with two others but claiming third spot by virtue of a better
last round.
It was the second successive year that the title ended up in English
hands after Stephen Jensen’s second title triumph in the event at Moray
12 months ago.
“I
can’t quite put it into words at this moment,” admitted 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.”
Laurie and Kennedy were locked together in the lead at three-under par
facing similar birdie putts on the 53rd hole after the overnight leader,
England’s Rupert Kellock, had fallen out of the picture.
New champion praises brother for green-reading skills
While
Laurie left his birdie putt five foot short, Consett and District
player Kennedy knocked his 30-footer and then watched Laurie miss his
tricky par putt.
“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,” added the new
champion.
“My
brother has been caddying this week. I’m quite blind 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!”
The women’s equivalent takes place next week at Eyemouth.
