Amateur golfers from all over New South Wales will take to Moree Golf Course this weekend to compete for a shot to play in the NSW Open Golf Championships amongst some of the best players in the state.
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Moree Golf Club is set to host the first round of the NSW Open Regional Qualifying Series this Saturday and Sunday, May 5 and 6.
About 100 players are expected to take part this weekend, with more than 20 visitors competing from Brisbane, Sydney, Newcastle, Dubbo, Gunnedah, Armidale, Narrabri and Coonabarabran, including the 2016 winner Jared Stirling from Brisbane who is looking to reclaim his title.
Moree Golf Club professional Matthew McGuire said he’s looking forward to seeing a strong contingent of locals take part in the event.
“The regionals are a prestigous event showcasing not only our local talent but top amateurs from all over NSW and South East QLD,” he said.
“The winner of the event will gain entry into the NSW Open to be held in Sydney.
“Golf NSW like to give amateurs the opportunity to play.”
Moree is one of only seven regional golf clubs selected to host this year’s qualifying tournaments, with other qualifiers to be held in Forbes, Camden, Thurgoona, Nambucca Heads, Bathurst and Griffith.
This is the third year Moree has hosted the event, which is sponsored by Irritek.
“The general manager of Golf NSW thought Moree would be a good venue; they approached us and asked if we wanted to host it,” McGuire said.
In addition to the coveted invitations to the NSW Open, players have an opportunity to also qualify for the NSW Men’s Senior Open, with the top two scores from competitors aged over 50 receiving an invitation to compete against the legends of Australian Professional Golf at Thurgoona Country Club Resort in October.
To add some incentive for the handicap golfer to get out and compete as well, the Nett winner from each event will secure a spot for themselves and two friends in the NSW Open Championship Pro-AM.
Golf NSW general manager Graeme Phillipson said the regional qualifying series is a fantastic pathway for the best amateur players in the state to qualify for the NSW Open.
The person with the lowest score after the two rounds on Saturday and Sunday will earn a spot in the NSW Open, to be held at Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club in November.
The competition will be split between three grades, with 18-hole and 36-hole prizes up for grabs.
Moree Golf Club pro shop will still be taking nominations up until Saturday.