By Hamish Stuart
Martin Galway enjoyed the biggest win of his career at the Welsh Seniors Open, with a hole-in-one setting him on the way to victory.
In fact England golfer Galway and playing partner Richard Norton both had a hole-in-one in their opening round together at Tenby. “I don’t know what the chances of that are, astronomical I imagine,” said Galway, of East Sussex National golf club.
Phil Evans of Royal Jersey was the highest placed Welsh player in tied sixth, while Llanwern’s Philip Rees finished tied 10th.
Galway, 63, had a career in golf for Taylor Made and Srixon, before semi-retiring to set up his own business buying and selling clubs, but travelled to West Wales with few expectations despite working on his mental game over the Coronavirus lay-off.
“It was incredible to win,” he said. “I have played in the Welsh Seniors Open a few times, but I just went there to try my best and compete because I am 64 next month.
“I got a bit of momentum in the first round, with the hole-in-one as part of being six under for the last eight holes.
“From then on it was a different ball game, I managed to play well and win wire-to-wire.
“I played my best golf in the third round when the wind blew a bit harder, I was really proud of how I played then because I had overnight and the morning to think about it.
“I have won the West of England and Sussex seniors titles and played for England seniors, but getting a national title has to go down as my biggest win. It means a lot being a national champion.
“This is the twilight of my career, but now I am looking forward to going to the British Seniors in Ganton in Yorkshire next week.”
Galway was full of praise for Tenby as a championship challenge. “It was great to play,” he added. “It is a beautiful place and a great course in really good condition.”
Wales Golf’s Seniors Open tournament director Sophie Madsen said, “Congratulations to Martin for playing so well through the three days to win the title.
“It is always nice to see a hole-in-one, so to get two of them from the same group of players is very unusual.
“Tenby was in fabulous condition to set a real challenge for many of the best senior players in the UK.
“The club also played a huge part in being able to run a successful and safe event, so thanks to all the staff and volunteers for helping to make that happen.”