Dalmilling golfer scoops Tammy title

Jun 12 2008

WEARY Gordon Boyle celebrated the golfing win of his life by dashing home for a sleep.

The 39-year-old Dalmilling member edged out teenager Scott Clark by one hole to win Ayr Golf Week's Tam o'Shanter title.

But a planned night of celebrations was binned by the need for 40 winks. Exhausted Gordon revealed: "I was out on my feet after a week of non stop golf.

"When I got home, I phoned for a takeaway but by the time it came I was sleeping. It was a long week and as someone said to me at the prizegiving, it's a long time since an auld yin has won the Tammy.

"I'm 40 on June 24 so this is an early present.

"Never for a minute did I think I would win against so many good young players. I have never even won my club championship and my goal was just to qualify for the matchplay.

"But I surprised myself by playing so well and it's easily my biggest win since lifting the Handyside Cup in 1987."

Record chasing Steven Wallace (St Cuthbert) led the 210 strong field with a two round aggregate of 137, three ahead of Boyle and holder Michael Smyth (Royal Troon).

In a red hot semi-final, Boyle birdied the first three holes to leave Smyth trailing. But the Atlanta golfing student battled back before Boyle buried him with a birdie at the 18th for a one hole win.

The Belleisle final was a see-saw affair with 18-year-old Clark taking an early lead on his home course.

Boyle sneaked ahead at the 14th and stayed in front as the former Kyle Academy pupil struggled to reply. When the 18th was halved, the Tammy title was Boyle's.

Ian McPherson (Tam o’Shanter) became the first player to retain the Handyside Cup in its 42 year history when he beat Ricky Carson (Belleisle) 5&4.

Ian, 38, won last year’s title playing off 14. This time, his handicap was four shots fewer.