Dale Whitnell collects English Golf Union Order of Merit trophy

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Having led the table for most of the year, Dale Whitnell has won the Titleist/FootJoy English Golf Union's Order of Merit for 2009.
To mark his achievement, the 21 year old from Tiptree in Essex was presented with the trophy by Jacques Retief from Titleist and FootJoy along with English Golf Union (EGU) officials at a special ceremony at his home club, Five Lakes.
Whitnell, who finished over 300 points ahead of his Walker Cup team-mate Luke Goddard, this year enjoyed three victories, three third places, and reached the semi-finals of the English Amateur.
He was also a member of the winning England teams against Spain, in the European Nations Cup, the Ashes against Australia and the Home Internationals and was also a member of the GB&I Walker Cup team.
After collecting the trophy, Whitnell said: “I’m delighted to have won after what has been a consistent year for me. I only missed two cuts and in every other tournament I finishing in the top five and although we didn’t win the Walker Cup it was good experience.”
Jacques Retief, Titleist and FootJoy’s Leadership Next Generation Liaison Manager said “The quality of the top amateur game has improved beyond belief in recent years and we are delighted to be able play a part in the success of English golfers by continuing this successful partnership with the EGU.”
Having turned professional immediately following the match against the United States at Merion in September, Whitnell is looking to win a card at the European Tour Qualifying School and he hopes his success will reflect that of his former England team-mate Chris Wood.
“Chris won the Order of Merit for the past two years and look at what he has done since,” added Whitnell. “Hopefully I can do as well.”
But as he opens a new chapter in his golfing career, Whitnell is mindful of the help and guidance he has received in the amateur game.
“Representing your country has to be the pinnacle of an amateur career and I loved it every time I pulled on an England shirt,” he added. " I’m grateful to the EGU. They have a marvellous set-up now which has produced a lot of winners this year and that is due to all the work they do. But now it’s time to move on and hopefully I can be as successful as a professional.”
Also at Five Lakes was Essex County President Mike Thirkettle who said: “The County is delighted with what Dale has achieved this year and for him to finish number one is an honour for Essex. We are also delighted he has received this award and we wish him every success in his future career which we will watch with interest.”