KINGARTH golfers compete in the first of two major events in as many weeks tomorrow (Saturday) when they challenge for the McDougall Trophy.    Club captain Ian McDougall has generously donated the silverware for tomorrow’s stableford competition which is followed next week by the May medal with sponsorship provided by banking organisation HSBC.  

The Bute Club has, for the first time, been selected as a qualifying venue for the HSBC amateur match-play tournament with the winner of their medal having an opportunity to compete first at regional level, then in the grand final at Stapleford Park, Leicestershire.   HSBC are providing gifts for all competitors in the medal plus major prizes for the top three players.   As always the ballot for both competitions will take place at the clubhouse at 8.30am.  

Last week’s winner of the RNLI medal was John Stewart (22) who edged out Alastair McFarlane (12) on a better inward half after both players finished on net 67. Leonard Ferguson (18) was third on 68 with Bobby Speirs (13) in fourth place, one shot further behind.   Alastair McFarlane maintained his recent run of success in the April medal when he won second class with the first sub-60 score of the year. The 13-handicapper’s net 59 was four shots clear of Duncan Keith (24) 63 with James McAlister (19) next on 65.  

The best scratch score of the day came from Gordon Pettigrew with a two-over-par 70. The seven-handicapper had birdies at the first, fifth and eighth on his way to an outward half of 32 but despite dropping shots on the back nine took top place in first class with net 63, one clear of Cammy Middleton (8).   Members are reminded that tomorrow (Saturday) is the closing date for entries to the knock-out competitions.