Angus matches his dad to grab the title

Angus Carrick followed in his father’s footsteps yesterday when he beat Connor Wilson by two holes in the final of the 2021 Scottish Men’s Amateur Championship at Murcar Links in Aberdeen.

Father, David, claimed the title at Southerness in 1985 and 36 years later son, Angus, emulated that feat to join an illustrious group of champions which also includes Ryder Cup players

Colin Montgomerie, Stephen Gallacher and Eric Brown, and current Scottish No. 1 Robert Macintyre.

With former Walker Cup player David watching on, 27-year-old Carrick (inset) won the second but soon found himself two down when Wilson won the fourth, sixth and seventh.

Carrick pulled one hole back on the eighth but it was not until he claimed both the 13th and 14th that he edged in front again and not until a closing birdie on the 18th that his victory was finally secured.

“I’m absolutely speechless, it’s all been a blur,” said the new champion.

“In fact, I’m still not sure what’s actually happened. I knew my game was good enough to compete and to win so I went out and gave it my all.

“It was a really tough game. We both hit some great shots and even after nine rounds of golf, or whatever it is, we were both playing very well. Yeah, there were a few tired swings in there, but not many. I think it was just the last six holes where I won it.

“I still can’t really remember what happened, but my caddie told me I had four birdies in the last six holes. So, I came back strong and ultimately that’s what won it for me.

“It’s great to emulate dad,” he added. “And great that we’ve now both got our names on the trophy. It’s nice, really nice, that we’ll always have that to share.”