Fletcher wins North of Ireland Strokeplay and Challenge Tour start
Andrew Lowry (Supersavers Ballymena. left) presents Jamie Fletcher (Warrenpoint GC) with the North of Ireland Amateur Open Strokeplay trophy alongside Galgorm Castle Golf Club Captain. Ian Henry
Warrenpoint’s Jamie Fletcher overcame Galgorm Castle’s Michael Reid in a sudden-death playoff to claim the Specsavers Ballymena sponsored North of Ireland Amateur Open Strokeplay title and a place in next month's Tayto Northern Ireland Open.
The plus-one handicapper shot rounds of 72 and 69 to finish level with Reid (74-67) after 36 holes, one clear of Bangor’s Jack Owens (72- 70), North West’s James Lindsay (70-72) and Knock’s Irish international Colin Fairweather (71-71).
Coached by PGA Professional Dougie Bell, 20 year old Fletcher birdied the par-5 18th twice with his second birdie good enough as Reid could only manage a par.
Delighted with his victory, the Warrenpoint man is relishing the opportunity to test his game against some of Europe’s finest.
“I’m over the moon to get the win and really can’t wait to tee it up in July on the European Challenge Tour,” Fletcher said.
"Fair play to Michael, we played together for the original 36 holes and there was nothing between us all day. The course was in great condition and the greens were superb, I can’t wait to play in front of the big crowds in July.”
The Tayto Northern Ireland Open, in partnership with Ulster Bank, takes place at Galgorm Castle from July 27-31.
- Entry is free and tickets are available at www.niopen.co.uk
- Further information on the NI Open can be found at: www.niopen.gol
