A TEENAGER has been crowned the champion of the Peter McEvoy Trophy at Copt Heath Golf Club in Solihull.
George Whitehead, aged 16, from Hillside trophy emerged victorious at golf’s premier event for young players.
The annual competition – now in its 45th year – gives the chance for top British, Irish and international prospects to showcase their abilities.
This year saw the highest number of entries in the tournament’s four decade-long history – 150, reflecting the growing reputation of the event and the talent among the junior ranks across Great Britain.
The tournament has previously acted as a springboard for British golfing legends Justin Rose and Lee Westwood.
George Whitehead (16) eagled the 15th and birdied the 18th for a round of 65 and a tournament total of 277, 7 under par.
His last hole birdie avoided a sudden death play off from three players who finished on six under par.
George said: “It’s a privilege to win – there are so many great players who have played this event like Marco Penge. I didn’t expect to win coming into this week so it’s very special.
“It was a really solid couple of days from tee to green and putting. I made three eagles which I was surprised at, I’m so happy with how everything went.
“The eagle on 15 in the final round – a 15-footer left-to-right up the hill – that gave me some momentum. When I was on 18, I knew I needed birdie to win or force a play-off and it was a good 20-footer for the win.
“I’m happy that all the England team did well. To beat all of them was good, and with all the crowd too. I’ve never really had that before, it was quite special and I felt like I controlled my nerves so I was happy with that.”
The best round of the week was Scott Antoun with a 63 in round four.
