Dave does the business in centenary Chronicle Cup competition

Dave Weldon overcame a nervous six-hole play-off to become the Chronicle Cup champion in the centenary year of the prestigious local golf competition at Oldham Golf Club.

The current vice captain at Crompton and Royton beat home player Chris McCafferty by three shots after the pair had finished with nett one-under 65s on a hard and dry Lees New Road course.

Key to the play-off success was Dave’s use of the putter from off the green where twice he got up and down from difficult situations.

The 51-year-old accountant, who has been a member at C&R for 14 years, was thrilled with his success.

He said: “I just did not expect this at all.

"I had played Oldham earlier this season in the invitation day and enjoyed it and decided to support the district golf event and came with no real expectations.”

But Dave (below), receiving 13 shots, knew was in the hunt when he reached the turn in 37 (+3) having had birdies at the 2nd and 9th holes.

“I had a bit of a disaster at the short 11th and was hanging on a bit at the end and got up and down for a four at the last which proved vital," he added.

“I have never felt so nervous on a golf course as I did in the play-off, but I am absolutely delighted to win such a major trophy as the Chronicle Cup – it is amazing to think it was first played for in 1923!”

Dave received the trophy from Oldham captain Jonathan Phillips and his win competed a fine double for C&R after Emily Halstead won the ladies version of the competition last month.

Oldham swept the board in the other prizes in a smaller than usual field as entries were affected by the clash with the City versus United FA Cup final.

Adrian Pegler picked up best gross (76), Steve Warburton won the first division (77-10-67) and the second division went to Duane Garfeld (84-17-67).

Entries are now open for the next two district golf events the 18-hole Centenrary Trophy and the 36-hole District Scratch Championship.

The former will be played at Crompton and Royton on Saturday, July 1, with the Scratch event taking place at the same course over two days with a reverse field of leaders out last on the Sunday.

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