Riley Hammond left watching Jack Fowler putt out on 9th green
On Sunday October 13th Northants U-14 boys had a comfortable victory over Leics & Rutland in our annual friendly match at Oundle Golf Club.
L&R had a few players missing due to other events, and as they were able to bring 9 players we excused Milton's Sam Mayman and soon to be over-age Isaac Wakefield to have a total of 20 players in 5 fourballs. The format was individual stableford off 95% of the course handicap with the best six scores counting towards a team aggregate result.
The Northants boys best 6 scores totalled 224 points, while L&R scored 191. All Northants boys played well and there were some superb individual performances.
RILEY HAMMOND (Northampton GC) was the day's top performer. He shot 43 points and established himself as key member of the squad as we look ahead to 2025. The same can be said of Jack Fowler (Kettering) and debutante Tom Hodgkinson (Northampton) who played some amazing golf and, regardless of their scores, showed how important they will be in the future competing for places in County teams.
Harry Odell (Northants County) incredibly still just 10 yrs old, and receiving only 7 shots, had another fantastic round with 38 points but was pipped on countback for Runner-Up spot by Peterborough Milton's rising star 11 yrs old Thomas Peachey.
A special mention goes to Isaac Richardson (Wellingborough) who confirmed his continuing improvement with an outstanding 37 points. Krishan Panesar (Collingtree) produced a steady 36 points including a superb birdie two at the 185 yds 9th hole. Daniel Rees (Northampton) , Captain Josh Bland and Oscar Cope (Northants County) all scored well and it was good to see Ollie Golby back from injury driving the ball as solidly as ever.
The Northants team were really impressive throughout in terms of their shot-making, general conduct and sportsmanship. Another proud day for their parents and organiser and all the coaches involved in developing these young talents !
Derek Mankelow (U-14 team manager)
