Smith on the prowl at Leopard Creek after SA Stroke Play defeat
JASON Smith is looking to avenge a narrow defeat at the South African Stroke Play Champions last week by becoming the first champion of the inaugural African Amateur Stroke Play Championship Leopard Creek in Mpumalanga this week.
The 2014 SA Stroke Play champion was pipped to the post at Blue Valley Golf and Country club on Friday after a flawless eight-under 64 by Ireland’s Jack Hume closed out a thrilling one-stroke victory.
Smith had to settle for a share of second with Irishman Stuart Grehan, but the blow just strengthened his resolve to come out fighting in the 72-hole championship that tees off today, and ends on Saturday.
“I feel good coming into this week,” said the Tshwane golfer.
“I played solid the whole week at Blue Valley, but it was just not enough to stop the final-round charge from Jack. My ball striking is good and I’m hitting my irons well. Leopard Creek has some of the best greens in the country, so I’m sure my putter will enjoy the week, too.
21-year-old
“Every course has a way it needs to be played, and this layout demands accuracy off the tee. Course management and positioning are key to scoring well here. I’ve formulated a game plan and I’m looking forward to start the challenge.”
The tournament also features a team element, and two South African teams will face off against eight international rivals in the Africa Amateur Team Championship.
South African No 1 Tristen Strydom will lead the Senior RSA team alongside Marco Steyn, Herman Loubser and James du Preez, who closed with a 65 at Blue Valley to finish fourth overall in the SA Stroke Play on Friday.
Reigning Nomads SA Boys U19 Match Play champion Ross Sinclair, Dr Bam winner Dylan Naidoo, Luca Filippi and Anuerin Gounden will star for the Junior RSA team.
The 54-hole competition will run concurrently with the main stroke play event, and the South Africans will hope to stave off teams from England, France, India, Kenya, Mauritius, Scotland, Switzerland and Zimbabwe. – Lali Stander