Round with Herbert among Jesper’s highs

A RECENT round with Bendigo-raised golfing ace Lucas Herbert is among the highs in the golfing journey of Strathfieldsaye teenager Jesper Wallace.

The two recently teed off in a round at Heathcote.

“To have a hit with Lucas was amazing,” Wallace said.

“I learnt so much and he gave me a few tips,” the keen teenager said of looking at ways to lengthen distance from the tee, improve his short game and the “mental edge” to reach the highest level.

Wallace is one of the latest recipients in the Lucas Herbert Golf Scholarship which was awarded last Thursday night at Red Energy Arena in West Bendigo.

It was not just cash the scholarship recipients pocketed.

There’s also membership and some perks through D-Club 24/7 Fitness based in Bendigo’s Bath Lane.

A big year for Wallace has included rounds and training at Heathcote, Neangar Park, and Southern Golf Club.

Add some details re Heathcote championship result

Next up will be the finale to the Next Gen Amateur Tour under-18 order of merit at Moonah Links on November 24 and 25.

Wallace is leading the race and needs a sixth place or higher to clinch the title.

A score of nine-under in the 36-hole stroke event on the Heathcote course meant Wallace was number one in the Golf Australia junior country region championship.

Wallace was the men’s open champion in the Ivo Whitton event played at Heathcote, and the Golf Central Victoria men’s open champion.

He was also unbeaten in all matches he played Southern Golf Club won the division two premiership in pennant golf.

“Longevity and mental stability are really important for me as a golfer,” said the 16-year-old.

The Lucas Herbert Golf Scholarship function included the unveiling of footy great and Hawthorn’s first premiership captain Graham Arthur as the 50th inductee to the Basil Ashman Hall of Fame.

Bendigo Sports Star of the Year will celebrate its 60th anniversary with a Gold and Glitter theme for next February’s presentation at the All Seasons Motel.

Tickets for the February 27 function are available via the Bendigo Sports Star of the Year website.