Tougher clash in regional rivalry

CAIRNS will be searching for a home green advantage this weekend across two days in the 2018 Twin Cities Challenge against Townsville.

Earlier this year, when the two cities faced- off, Townsville’s experience outweighed Cairns’ youth with Townsville beating Cairns 5- 3 in the first day four- ball at Rowes Bay Golf Club and 9- 6 the following day in singles at Townsville Golf Club.

The two weekends of golf are stand- alone events, with the southern squad getting the chocolates in the first event with the far north lads seeking revenge today and tomorrow.

Gun local golfer Frank Power comes out of the Cairns squad that played in May, as does Will Florimo, Matt Jacques and Phil Hendricks.

Cairns regional team captain Damon Caldwell says Power’s absence leaves a big gap in his squad but he believes four handy inclusions will be able to get the job done.

“We are keen to put an end to that run they are on at the moment and get the trophy back,” Caldwell said.

“Heath Kapor has won a lot of events historically and is back playing this year after some work commitments.

“Dave Cameron is playing well also after coming second at the club championships at Cairns. Historically, the home ground advantage really helps.”

Cameron and Kapor are on debut in the Twin Cities Challenge.

“These guys are jumping out of their skin to play,” Caldwell said.

The Townsville regional side will travel to Cairns to play the region’s representative side with four- ball matches today at Half Moon Bay Golf Club and Singles matches tomorrow at Cairns Golf Club.