ROUND 3 - LEVEN LINKS

On the Sunday, Leven Links was a totally different proposition to the two previous rounds. Tightly laid out with plenty of undulations, difficult lies, unpredictable bounces and cleverly protected greens, this was more of a challenge, but the better conditions also made it a more tolerable one. Fortified by coffee and biscuits, players were delighted to welcome Doctor Golf, who turned up as guest of honour and match referee for the final round, bringing the sunshine with him. First-tee nerves weren't helped by a high fence close to the right, protecting the nearby road from stray balls. The overnight leader Harper immediately undermined his chances of a convincing start by hitting his ball over the road, and many others aimed far left for fear of following suit. The course was dry and hard, and suited Maxwell's "Happy Gilmore" swing that many a shinty player would be proud of. As so clearly demonstrated by Tiger Woods at the recent Open, technique isn't everything, and Maxwell also showed an incredible degree of mental composure and consistency in his last round, notching up an incredible score as his playing partners stood by watching helplessly. There were strong scores by a number of players, especially Bridges and Harper, so as the last group reached the clubhouse, no one was totally sure of the outcome until the final count was made. After much-needed post-match refreshment, players could not stand the suspense any longer and rejoined to the clubhouse bar for the prize-giving ceremony. The final scores were based on the best Stableford points over the 3 rounds. Maclean failed to fully capitalise on his early form, but still won a commendable third place, with 44 points. Second place was hotly contested and eventually won by Harper at 49 points. But he was pipped to the post, at 50 points, by the new champ Ken Maxwell. He rose to tumultuous applause and made a moving acceptance speech on receiving the trophy from last year's holder, Billy Wilson.

"I would like to see what an honour it is to receive this trophy and I will be doing my level best to uphold its high standards. I wish to thank my parents, my dear wife, my daughter, my cat Shaky and especially the Handicap Committee, without whom none of this would have been possible". (Maxwell on his tournament win)

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