Three in play-off for Masters crown

Gavin Hay was crowned Emtec Group Deer Park Masters champion after winning a three-man play-off at the Livingston course to capture his first PGA Scotland Tartan Tour Order of Merit tournament win.

The Grantown-on-Spey member followed up his opening round of 67 with a score of 71 in round two for a six-under-par total.

That saw him tied with Graham Fox of Clydeway Golf (68-70) and Robert Arnott of Bishopbriggs Golf Range (67-71).

Hay’s birdie on the first extra hole proved to be decisive as he secured the win and the £2250 cheque that came along with top spot.

He said:“I’m absolutely delighted to have won my first order of merit tournament title.

“I came into the final day confident of being able to post a score as I was just one back.

“The weather wasn’t particularly kind to us, with the rain throughout the round, but I managed to post a score.”

He added:“I’d made a bogey and missed a couple of chances for birdie in my closing holes of normal play but I was confident heading into the play-off.

“I was up against a couple of big names and experienced players so to come out on top is brilliant.”

It was the 14th year of the event, with 50 professionals and 300 amateurs taking part in the contest.

And it was a special occasion for defending champion and five-time winner Greig Hutcheon, who was made an honorary lifetime member of Deer Park in recognition of his achievements in the event.

While he was not able to make it a half-dozen victories at the course, he gave a great account of himself, ending up just a single shot shy of the top trio.

He said:“This is an absolutely fantastic honour. To receive honorary lifetime membership at a course I love is amazing.

“I always love coming here and I really didn’t expect this. I always ask if I can roll Deer Park up in my pocket and take it everywhere I go. I love the course and it keeps getting better every year.

“I came up short this year but being awarded this is almost better than winning.”

The club’s general manager Alan Tait said:“I’m proud to say the Deer Park Masters have been a fantastic success and I’m delighted to congratulate Gavin Hay as the winner.

“All of the feedback I’ve received from the participants has been fantastic and they were raving about the condition of the golf course.”

He added:“Through his wins, Greig has been a fantastic ambassador for the club and speaks affectionately about the event and Deer Park wherever he goes on his travels.

“For me this was a terrific way to say thank you to him for his support over the years but, most importantly, to recognise his accomplishment in winning this event so many times.”

Alan also thanked the greenkeeping team and club staff.