Hamilton had a slow start but warmed up as the club’s new two- weekend format attracted a record amount of players.

Previously played with a longer format and a round less for B and C grade, the updated tournament attracted 577 players over the four rounds. 

Club captain Ken Mundy was pleased with the new format.

“It has to be some sort of record,” Mundy said.

Hamilton carded a first-round 79 and was sitting five shots off the pace but a 71 to finish last weekend and a 71 to start (Saturday) this weekend  had him right back in the mix along with Andrew Bowden, John Trevaskis, Ben Lockwood and a few other familiar names.

Hamilton finished  with a 74 yesterday for a four-round total of  285, 15 over par.

Early leader  Bowden went the other way, hitting two 74s and a 73 to share the lead into yesterday’s final round before a disastrous 84 put him out of contention.

Hamilton, a former pro turned amateur, is a naturally talented golfer but doesn’t play as often as he might.

“I am lucky to play once a week these days,” Hamilton said.

“I had a very rough start but I came good in the middle and then  just played  steady golf.

“It was pretty tough out there.” 

Hamilton was caddied by two of his children, Harrison and Lily.