Sandford and Niblett are 2009-10 Matchplay Champions
May 12, 2010

The youngest team of Welsh golfing duo Luke Sandford (19 years) and Adam ‘Ziggy’ Niblett (aged 23) have won the 2009-10 Matchplay Championship with 131 points, having held the lead throughout the three-day tournament and beating their nearest competitors by a massive 11 points.

The 2009-10 Matchplay Champions Luke Sandford & Adam Niblett

It’s the first time that they have entered the tournament and they were delighted to lift the trophy on the final day of play.

“It’s been an incredible experience. The golfing trip of a lifetime,” said Ziggy.“We have played in the most fabulous golfing destination at Marriott Taba Heights, met some great people and been filmed by Sky Sports throughout.”

In second place were County Down duo Declan Quigly and Mark McQuoid with 120 points followed by Manchester duo Nick Waring and Ian Watson.

In the mixed pairs, Surrey couple Hannah Sneath and Jim Giberson took first place with 122 points having stayed in the lead throughout the three days of play. In second place were Bathgate golfers Karen Burns and Graham Bell with 117 points and in third were Towcester husband and wife team David and Tracy Morris.

The non-active men’s handicap event saw Bristol based duo Nick Curyer and Spencer O’Leary with 114 points overhaul Downpartick golfers Patrick Turtle and Cyril Morris, who finished in second place with 102 points.

With the tournament now over the competitors have time to relax before this evenings lavish prize-giving gala dinner. The competitors then have a couple of days off where they can take in the sites, relax by the pool or snorkle in the stunning red sea. Whatever they decide to do they have earned it after three days of competitive golf.

As ever John Woosey was on hand with his view as the tournament concluded “We have seen some fantastic play over the Grand Final in what has been a superb setting and it’s just wonderful to see the Matchplay Championship go from strength to strength. Both Luke and Ziggy did Wales proud. They were our youngest team and played some of the best golf we have seen in the Matchplay Championship.”

Tournament Director Tom Cowgil also reflected "It's been a great competition, the competitors have all been fantastic and it's been a pleasure to be involved with. I'd like to thank the team behind me for the fantastic effort they have put in and we're already looking forward to next years event."

12 May 2010 - GRAND FINAL - EARLY RESULTS

Men's CONGU Active
Winners = Luke Sandford & Adam Niblett
Runners Up = Declan Quigley & Mark McCoid

Mixed Competition
Winners = Jim Giberson & Hannah Sneath
Runners Up = Karen Burns & Graham Bell

Men's CONGU non-active & Strokes Golf Handicap
Winners = Nick Cruyer & Spence O'Leary
Runners Up = Patrick Turtle & Cyril Morris

The 2010-11 Matchplay Championship, Britain’s largest amateur golf tournament, this year sees its grand final hosted at the prestigious Els Club in Dubai. Entries are now open at only £40 per team, but close on June 30, so hurry for your chance to book a place to Dubai!

For further information visit www.matchplaychampionship.co.uk