JAKE BENSON WINS FALDO SERIES QUALIFIER AT MOORTOWN GOLF CLUB

(Leeds, UK – July 15^th 2019):Accomplished English junior golfer, Jake Benson, has won the England North event of the 2019 Faldo Series Europe calendar, securing a place at Al Ain Equestrian Shooting & Golf Club, Abu Dhabi for the Europe Grand Final in November.

The event saw 67 of the most talented boys head to the prestigious Moortown Golf Club – a Top 100 UK Golf Course and host of the 1929 Ryder Cup. The event took place over three rounds, where Benson overcame a strong field to win by two shots over fellow Englishman, Tom North.

Steeped in history, Moortown is regarded by many as one of the country’s finest inland golf courses. Over the past century the club has hosted many professional and amateur tournaments with winners that include Faldo Series Founder, Sir Nick Faldo, Bernard Gallagher and Sir Michael Bonallack, former Captain of The R&A.

Crafted by course architect Alister MacKenzie, the Moortown layout isn’t characterised by too much undulation or elevation change. The lightly tree lined fairways, with many stretches that are more open and heathland in character, guide you to large and immaculately maintained greens. Reflecting MacKenzie’s philosophy, the bunkering blends naturally into the course, rather than intruding artificially onto it. The natural elegance and challenging nature of Moortown guarantees its place among Britain’s top heathland courses and makes a perfect host venue for the Faldo Series North England qualifier.

Jake Benson (Under-21) started the third and final round two shots off the lead with a total score of -3, trailing Tom North who sat at -5. North, however, ended his chances of lifting the trophy, with a final round score of 72 (+1) to finish in second place. Benson, who made fifteen birdies across the three rounds, remained in total control and shot an impressing 3-under par 68 to finish two shots clear of North (-6). Thomas Doran and Fergus Robinson, both in the Under-21 category, finished on a total score of 2-under par to finish in a tied third position.

Commenting after his win, Jake Benson, said: “I struck the ball well all the way around today having made minor mistakes in the first two rounds. My putting and iron play were very consistent, and I hit a lot of greens so didn’t have to rely on my short game too much. I am massively looking forward to working on my game in the summer in preparation for taking part in the Grand Final in November alongside the best Under 21 players from all over Europe. I certainly feel like I can win it and look forward to competing. Finally, I would like to thank everyone at Faldo Series for the excellent organisation of this event – it’s amazing to play on such a highly rated golf course that has also been host to a Ryder Cup.”

Jake Wiltshire wrapped up the Under-18 category in a playoff to reach the Grand Final after impressive rounds of 74, 76, 69 (+6). Joshua Berry won the Under-16 division by an 8 shot margin with scores of 68, 76, 70 (+1) to also secure his place at Al Ain.

Matthew Faldo, Faldo Series Director, commented: “It’s always great to come back to Moortown Golf Club – the course was set up tough all week and it was great to see the boys battle it out on the heathland design. Many congratulations to all division winners, especially to Jake Benson on a total score of 6-under – very impressive golf. I’m looking forward to seeing all three division winners at Al Ain in November for the Grand Final.” Today, 40 Faldo Series tournaments take place in 30-plus countries worldwide, touching thousands of junior golfers each year. Past winners include Major Champion Rory McIlroy, Eddie Pepperell, Matt Wallace, Danny Willet and former Tour Pro, Nick Dougherty.