Champion golfers tee off at Ocean Shores Country Club PGA Open

COOLANGATTA-Tweed golfer Jack Wright and Coffs Harbour’s Billy Flanagan shared honours at the Ocean Shores Country Club PGA Open Match, both finishing three-under 69.

The pair topped a field of 64 professionals, with 16 groups teeing off across the course in the one-day event.

Club professional Chris Graham said the standard of play reflected both the strength of the field and the presentation of the course.

“Our course is a challenge for everyone, but the greens and fairways were in amazing condition thanks to Troy, our superintendent,” Graham said.

 

“All the players really appreciate the opportunity to compete professionally on a course presented so well.”

The highlight of the tournament came at the 15th hole, where Luke Elliott produced a hole-in-one.

Club associate professional Diarmuid Harrington was the best of the locals, finishing tied for fifth with a one-over 73.

“Diarmuid has had a great start to his professional career,” Graham said.

“He’s originally from Ireland, played at a very high level as an amateur, and now he’s stepping up to the professional ranks.

“Finishing tied fifth in this field is a fantastic effort.”

 

While the Open Match was limited to PGA professionals, Graham said the event provided members and spectators with the opportunity to watch high-level golf up close.

“Our professional golfers don’t always have opportunities to play and compete for prize purses, so hosting more events is fantastic for them,” he said.

The club has further professional events scheduled this year, including an Associate ProAm on June 29 and the Adidas PGA ProAm Series on August 19.