It will be a second time around for Josh Clarke at this year’s NSW Open after taking out the Kew/Wauchope Regional Qualifying Tournament over the weekend.
Clarke posted rounds of 70 and 68 for a total score of 138, or 3 under par to win by two shots from Lloyd Radcliffe of Kooindah Waters. Coffs Harbour’s Jack Poutney and Long Reef’s Tom Bateman finished another shot away in a tie for third place.
The 24-year-old had to battle all weekend not only against some tough opponents but also the intense 38-degree heat of Sunday. Despite the challenges, it was a withering final burst of five-under par for his last ten holes to seal the win for a relieved Clarke.
“I didn't play my best on day one but chipped and putted well to keep the round going."
I got off to a slow start in the second round; I was two over par after eight holes then I started to play well, and went five under my last 10,” he said.
The St Michael’s Major Pennant representative is now primed to compete against many of the stars of the Aussie PGA tour before attempting tour school at the end of the year.
“It feels awesome to qualify again. I qualified five years or so ago and did no good, but I’m eager to see how my game stacks up against the pros now. I Can't wait.”
“I work in two pro shops out at Richmond and Dunheved, and I want to make a career out of golf, so tour school at the end of the year is the target,” he added.