Ben inspired by Josh’s gesture
GOLF: Victorian golfer Josh Younger couldn’t quite pull off a victory in last week’s Coca-Cola Queensland PGA Championship at City Golf Club.
But when it comes to being a role model he will be a winner for life in the eyes of Toowoomba schoolboy Ben Milner.
Younger offered the 14-year-old golfing protege the chance to work on his bag as caddie during his four-day championship visit where he finished in a tie for 10th after being the one-time tournament leader.
Milner jumped at the chance to accompany the Bacchus Marsh professional, keen to learn some of the ropes on the Australasian golf tour he hopes one day to be a part of.
The Toowoomba Golf Club junior is heading in the right direction towards a professional golf career and is already eyeing a possible start in next year’s PGA Championship after working his handicap down to three.
Milner struck up his partnership with Younger through Sean Lynch who is assisting the Toowoomba Grammar School student with his golf mental strategy.
“Sean Lynch, my mental coach, knew Josh and I was able to meet him a couple of years ago,” Milner said.
“We got to become good mates and it was great being able to caddie for him.
“Josh came across as a good fellow and role model.
“I learned a fair bit from him.
“One of the main things I picked up is no matter what happens, if you keep a cool head anything is possible.
“All of the pros were good to me — it was great.”
Milner lives on Middle Ridge golf course with his parents Ashley and Megan and has worked his handicap down from 34 after taking up the sport three years ago.
His development is being helped along by Brookwater coach Ian Triggs.
Milner is now keen to take his next Queensland PGA step after savouring his first taste of the tournament.
“I’d like to have a crack at maybe qualifying for it next year,” Milner said.
“That’s my next goal.”