In-form Nixon grabs top spot across Carrickblacker course

Stableford success arrived thanks to a two-shot success over the Clubworld Travel Easter Saturday field.

He wrapped up the front nine in a five-over-par tally on 21 points - with a six-over-par scoreline resulting in 20 across the back leg towards 41 overall.

Terry Sandford finished second off his seven handicap, with 39 points.

John Mackin came home next in line on 38 points - edging out John Cassidy courtesy of the countback in the race for fourth.

Gordon Willis posted 76 for first in the gross section.

In the Thursday Stableford, David Ross registered 34 points over 14 holes.

Jason Gordon came home second on 32 points, with Keith Walker’s 30 completing the top-three placings.

Walker also enjoyed hole-in-one success at the par-three fourth hole.

The Wednesday Sweep - traditionally one of the most popular competitions on the Carrickblacker schedule - is set for a start date of April 6.

Play in contention for the Ronnie Uprichard Rosebowl will run across 20 weeks.

Cards are open from 4 o’clock, with a prize presentation set to take place each Wednesday night at 9.45.

The weekly prize run will feature five honours thanks to first and the four section honours.

Paul Coulter and George Lutton have been working hard to secure sponsorship for the full duration of the 20-week tournament. Paul Stevenson, the Portadown club professional, will provide the prizes for the opening week.

In team news, the inter-club fixtures will start this weekend with Ulster Cup play under the guidance of captain Nigel Gilliland. Play on Sunday at Carnalea will run across the first leg before the return across April 10.

Tomorrow (Saturday) will mark the Twoball Scramble, with starting slots in the Pro Shop.