TALENTED golfer David Leeman is the envy of County Armagh Golf Club this week as he heads off to the world famous Belfry in England for the 2016 HowDidiDo Order of Merit Grand Final.
Having finished top of his handicap category (13-21) and 7 th overall in Ireland in the year-long Titleist sponsored competition , the City man has earned his place in the 10-man Ireland team to compete in the grand final .
The Belfry is synonymous with golf and has played host to more Ryder Cups than any other venue in the world. Majestic fairways and carpet-smooth greens form a world-famous stage on which some of golf's most exhilarating dramas have played out.
And on Friday (28 Sept), David and his teammates are hoping to emulate their golfing heroes who have made their name at this renowned venue.
In the Grand Final - a medal format, with full handicaps – they will compete for an overall prize, divisional prizes and an overall winning Home Nations prize.
County Armagh Golf Club Professional Alan Rankin presents David Leeman with a club crested polo-shirt before he sets off to the Belfry in England for the HowDidiDo Order of Merit Grand Final.
“It's a bit of a dream come true,” beamed 13-handicapper David as he put in a final practice round at County Armagh on Saturday. “For anyone who is serious about golf, the Belfry is one of the most famous courses you would want to play.
“It's obviously going to be very challenging with its tight fairways, unbelievable bunkers and lakes not to mention the fast greens, but it'll be a thrill to play.”
David's place in the Grand Final is certainly deserved, following his most successful season ever at County Armagh. During the year he won the first club stableford, the May Medal, was first in category in the April Medal and the Bumblebee Cup and was 4th on Captain's Day. In the Gray Cup matchplay competition he was runner-up and with playing partner Glen Baird reached the semi-finals of the Charlemont Cup.
“I couldn't believe how well I'd done in the HowDidiDo order of merit. I was leader in my division in April, May, June, August and September. I ended up with 5840 points which was taken from my five best scores throughout the year. Second place was 136 points behind me since start of August.
“After all was said and done, I won my division which qualified me to play at the Belfry along with the nine other Irish players. It'll be an honour to represent Ireland in the Grand Final and although we'll be playing as a team I'll also be trying my best to win one of the individual prizes up for grabs.”
Before he left for the Belfry, County Armagh Golf Club Professional Alan Rankin presented David with a County Armagh crested polo shirt which he will wear with pride in the Grand Final, come Friday.