Big freeze doesn't deter Ballycastle golfers

THE golf course at Ballycastle was open for play at the weekend with the area fortunate to have avoided the worst of the recent wintry weather.

Although the ground was frozen solid and temporary greens were in use, conditions were surprisingly pleasant on Saturday and a stableford competition was played over sixteen holes.

Sixteen handicapper Gareth Beckett mastered the hard and unpredictable playing surface superbly and finished in first place with a splendid total of 39 points.

Patrick Nixon took second place with a score of 37 points ahead of Michael Campbell in third, courtesy of a better back nine total.

Sunday’s golfers had an icy wind to contend with but the scoring was still excellent with Brendan Black, playing off nine, returning a winning score of 37 points. James McNeill completed the sixteen holes with a total of 34 points for second place and Colin Millar was third with a score of 33 points.

The Winter League was due to begin at the weekend but it was decided to delay the start until next week in the hope that weather conditions improve.

It is still possible for members to enter the Winter League, please give your name to the club professional if you wish to do so.