Somers Shines at World Hickory Open Championship

NEWS RELEASE ISSUED BY THE SCOTTISH GOLF UNION
Australian Perry Somers is the new World Hickory Open Champion after overcoming the challenge from local professional Alastair Good in an intriguing battle at Gullane.
Somers, originally from Queensland but now a teaching professional in Germany, posted an eight-over par 76 on Gullane’s No 3 course for a 36-hole aggregate of 154, two clear of Good as the duo produced some excellent golf in testing conditions in East Lothian.
Good’s rounds of 79 and 77 gave him second place, with St Andrews New Club’s Ewan Glen winning the handicap section on 156.
Starting the day a shot behind, Good raced into the lead at the turn with an outward half of 36, but a lost ball at the 16th lead to a triple bogey as he relinquished first spot to the experienced Australian. Somers was out in 40, but an excellent inward half of 36, including a birdie two at the 11th, gave him victory, adding to the Hickory Championships he has won in Germany, France and the Czech Republic already this year.
“It’s a great honour to win the World Hickory Championship here at Gullane in Scotland and a real pleasure to play alongside Alastair Good today,” said a delighted Somers.
“Our golfing forefathers would be proud to see us continue their traditions and hopefully we can keep growing this event.”
“I’ve only been playing hickory for the last two years but as soon as I put on the plus fours and tie I feel inspired and in my element. I absolutely love the game but I reckon I was born 90 years too late!”
Loretto School’s Director of Golf Rick Valentine, winner of the team event yesterday, finished tied third after rounds of 84 and 82, with team-mate Timon Sitte fifth on 169.
Final Leaderboard
1. 154 Perry Somers (Australia) 78 76
2. 156 Alastair Good (Gullane) 79 77
T3. 166 Ewan Glen (St Andrews New) 84 82
T3. 166 Rick Valentine (Loretto School Golf Academy) 84 82
5. 169 Timon Sitte (Loretto School Golf Academy) 88 81

















Ross Duncan