TAMWORTH golfer Nathan Mann is a state champion again after winning the U17s State Matchplay final in Sydney yesterday.
It’s been a while since the Tamworth High School student and Longyard member has picked up a state title but he played well in yesterday’s match with Castle Hill’s Trent Smyth and won it three and two.
“I won the nett in my first state age,” Mann said.
“But that was seven years ago.
“Until now I hadn’t won anything at state level since then.”
He said the match was close but his short game was working well.
That was an important factor on difficult greens.
“We both played well,” Mann said.
“The greens weren’t the best.
“We think they were cored about a month ago.
“But I was making up and downs from everywhere.
“I hit the ball well but the chipping and putting was the best thing all day.”
To reach the final, Mann has had to wait a long time.
The first two rounds of the tournament were played back in April but the third round and final had to be postponed until now due to rain.
The top eight in the state qualified for the tournament and earned points in the first three rounds.
Mann won both of his games in April and received a forfeit in round three yesterday to move into the decider.
He is now teeing off in the state junior amateur championships at the same Glenmore Heritage Valley venue today and hopes his good form and an extra round on the course will put him in the mix for another title.
“It was a good practice round for this week,” Mann said.
“The first round is (today) and then we play again Wednesday and then they take the top 60 scores for the last two rounds on Thursday.
“It will be good.”