Victory for The Belfry's Sam Walker
June 29, 2012

The Belfry's touring professional Sam Walker became the first multiple winner of the Scottish Hydro Challenge tournament when he defeated European Tour big hitter Simon Wakefield at the third play-off hole on Sunday (25 June).

The 34-year-old from Birmingham, who has been attached to the famous Wishaw golf resort for the past five years, took his second Scottish title and third Challenge Tour success after heavy rain reduced the event to 54 holes in Aviemore.

Having finished tied for the lead with Wakefield on -12 and completed two tense pars on the 18 th play-off hole, Walker rolled in a seven-foot putt for his second Scottish title following victory in the inaugural event in 2006. In capturing the €35,000 winner's prize, he now ranks sixth on the Challenge Tour rankings.

A regular visitor to The Belfry for practice rounds and use of the PGA National Golf Academy facilities, Walker put his composure in the play-off down to work on the range. "I more or less played the play-off hole on the range," he said.

As well as Wakefield, who finished third at the recent St Omer Open European Tour event, the field included notable players such as Nick Dougherty and John Parry.

"This was a big win for Sam and we're delighted for him," said Gary Silcock, Director of Golf at The Belfry. "His cousin Tom Whitehouse, who is also attached here, had a good second round in the event, but just missed the cut. We hope to see both of them doing well during the rest of the season."

To find out more about the PGA National Golf Academy, go to www.TheBelfry.com .