Bill Banks (Royal Canberra) has come from behind to claim the 2014 Royal Melbourne Seniors Classic title. Banks fired an impressive three over par 75 today on the traditional composite Royal Melbourne layout. Banks finished the week with three solid rounds of 81, 77 and 75 for a total of 233. “I can now tick this off the bucket list” Banks said after winning the championship.
Bill, who was surprised with the win, happened to have shoulder surgery putting him out of the game for several months. “A couple of months ago I didn’t think I’d be playing golf again” Banks said in his presentation speech. To win an event like this at Royal Melbourne the putter must be on. His putting indeed was the difference for Banks who handled the greens much better this year.
Sal Ballard from Concord was the overall runner-up who also fired a final round 75 to finished two behind on a total of 235. Third place was Ian Frost who struck the ball beautifully for the three days but just couldn’t make enough putts.
The handicap champion for 2014 was Colac member Greg Welsh who produced respectable nett scores of 72, 76 and 80 for a 228 total.
A highlight from today’s play was David Mallet’s Hole-in-one on the 5th West. An unlucky occurrence with the pin located on the front left of the green.
Out of the 108 participants, 64 came from interstate and 5 from overseas. The field represented 75 different golf clubs in total. However, after the event one thing they had in common: they were all delighted and appreciative to be part of this prestigious event.
Once again, Royal Melbourne Golf Club has staged a great tournament that tested the skills of some of the best Senior golfers around. The golf club should certainly be congratulated on their hospitality to all.
For final results, please click here