CAPTAIN RICHARD LEADS FROM THE FRONT

Despite a hectic current schedule that sees his weeknights filled with meetings, his weekends spent following the club's teams the length and breadth of the Province and almost every other waking moment consumed with other club duties, notably preparations for his big day  on 24 June, Captain Richard Stewart still managed to squeeze in competition glory at County Armagh Golf Club.

In the Open Stroke sponsored by Hillview Lodge Driving Range on Saturday 27 May, Richard produced a career best gross 77 to seal victory by a single stroke from the red-hot Christopher Lester.

Six outward pars enabled Stewart to reach the turn in 37 blows before he went into overdrive early in his back nine.

Birdie fours at the 10th and 12th mingled agreeably with pars at the 11th, 13th and 14th as the then 14-handicapper found himself just one over par with four holes remaining.

It's entirely understandable for anyone to become a tad edgy at such a highly promising juncture and, indeed, Richard somewhat stumbled over the finish line.

However, El Capitano wouldn't be denied a stunning nett 63, which was even more impressive considering the blustery and showery conditions with which he had to cope. His red-letter day means a handicap snip to 12 and ought to put an increased spring in his step for the further busy days and nights ahead.

Gary Baird of Hillview Lodge Golf Driving Range presents County Armagh Golf Club Captain Richard Stewart with the winner's prize for the recent Open Stroke Competition. Also pictured are John Maguire (2nd gross) and Conor McAneney (3rd nett).