AFTER the frustration of recent days it was great to see Downes Crediton Golf Club members back out on the course playing in the Club Stableford on Saturday,February 8.

The leading score on the day came from Tristan Kershaw who posted a fine 40 points. Kershaw also topped Division One with Andy Frankum (39pts) second and Robin Abrahams (36pts) third.

In Division Two it was Stephen Yates who took the victory with 38 points and he was followed in second by Neil Ford (36pts) and Tim Andrews (36pts) third.

Top of the pile in Division Three was John Rance posting 36 points with Neil Wilson (35pts) second and Phil Beasley (34pts) third.

Ladies Captain, Shirley Stunell, won the Ladies Division.

On Friday, February 7, at the Regional AGM, Downes Crediton Head Professional Barry Austin was announced as the Professional Golfers Association West Region Captain for 2020.

Austin, who has been a Professional for nearly 30 years, started golfing as a junior at Ilfracombe Golf Club in the early 80’s before beginning his Professional career at Tiverton Golf Club in 1990.

He moved to Teign Valley for five years before getting the Head Professionals job at Downes Crediton, a position he has enjoyed for more than 14 years.

Although he has enjoyed the odd foray on the European Tour his heart is very much now amongst the members at Downes Crediton where along with fellow Professional, Devon Greenslade, they look to develop and grow the game.

Barry said: “I’m so proud and honoured for myself and Downes Crediton to take the position for the year especially with the nomination coming from my fellow Pros.”

Throughout the year at the West Regions Pro-Ams and other events Barry will be looking to raise as much money as possible for his chosen charity CLIC Sargent.