To commit yourself to playing in a major golf tournament whilst sitting the HSC is one thing, but to walk away with winning is altogether another!
Duval High School student Baxter Ward has done just that, taking out his first Armidale Open at the ripe old age of 18.
“The Armidale Open went extremely well for me,” said Baxter.
“I have been studying up for my HSC and haven’t been playing much golf so it was a nice surprise to come out and post some good scores for the weekend.”
Baxter has been playing competitive golf for about eight years and only competed in this event for the first time last year. He is now hoping to come back and defend his title next year.
Baxter had some stiff competition throughout the weekend.
“Our greenkeeper Brett Woodward, who has played College golf in the US and is one of the really good players in the club and plays off a plus -three handicap, was always a threat; he didn’t have his greatest weekend,” said Baxter.
“Our club champion Derek Shirlaw was always a threat and finished second.
“Putting saved me. I hit the ball pretty solid around, but my putting kept the momentum throughout the weekend for me.”
This year’s sponsors were Nathan and Jacqie Stubbs and the Armidale Golf Shop.
Story: Jo Harrison
