Sydney star Daniel Gale's decision to travel to Wagga paid off in a big way over the weekend with a resounding win in the City of Wagga Open at the Wagga Wagga Country Club.
The 19-year-old left his rivals way behind with his six-shot win. With this effort, Gale also secured his second start in the 2015 NSW Open at Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club in November.
"When I saw that it was a qualifying event for the NSW Open I thought I'd play Wagga Wagga as I saw it as a great opportunity,” Gale said.
Gale was no stranger to the Country Club course, having played there two years ago in the NSW All Schools Championships.
After getting off to a hot start on Saturday with a 6-under par 66, it wasn't until the last nine holes on Sunday that Gale managed to get away from the chasing pack.
Finishing tied for second behind Gale were Wagga Wagga locals Henry Brind, Kurt Burns and Jarrod Meecham.
The incentive of qualifying for the NSW Open had a great effect on the number of players participating.
"It has helped double the field,” Wagga Wagga Club Professional Ian Ferguson said.
Stuart Fraser, Chief Executive Officer of Golf NSW praised the event and the organisers.
"The Wagga Wagga City Open has been a great success and praise should go to the organisers and host club for making the weekend a great experience,” Fraser said.
"Congratulations to Daniel on his win and we wish him well for the NSW Open.”
On hand to present Gale with his NSW Open invitation were Steven Childe, Captain of Wagga Wagga Country Club, and Daryl Maguire MP, Member for Wagga Wagga.
The opportunity to win automatic entry into the 2015 NSW Open is still available with regional qualifying events scheduled for:
- 10 October 2015 -The Queanbeyan Cup – Queanbeyan. Contact Jake Nagle at Queanbeyan GC 6297 1669 – proshop@queanbeyangolf.com.au
- 24-25 October 2015 – North Coast Open Amateur – Coffs Harbour. Contact Kylie at Coffs Harbour GC – 6652 3244 – admin@coffsharbourgolfclub.com.au