DAVID Tuke certainly triumphed over adversity to win his first-ever golf major at Stamford.
The 45-year-old, who lifted the Barry Sidebottom Memorial Trophy, admitted there was a time when he was resigned to never playing the game again.
David had disc problems in his lower back which required three lots of spinal surgery while he has had other health issues including a bleed on the brain.
“At one point, I thought I would never play again. To be back to this level and to win a major is more than I could ever have dreamed of,” he explained.
David, who does lots of exercises and walking to keep flexible and supple, admitted to feeling “humbled” to win this event which is held in memory of popular former member Barry Sidebottom.
“I have spoken to a few members and Barry was a well thought after chap so to win this trophy was special,” he continued.
David, who lives in Droylsden, only joined Stamford in July 2020.
He had been a junior member at Fairfield before deciding to take up the game after conquering his health issues.
David said: “A good friend is a member at Stamford which is why I joined.
“I have since met three or four other members who I knew from childhood and it has been nice seeing them again.”
David, who works in sales, added he has surpassed all expectations for this season.
He said: “It was an ambition to win a big trophy and to reduce my handicap to teens.
“I was off 22 but after winning I was docked four shots and am now off 18.
“I am looking at the rest of the year as a free hit when I can go out and enjoy my golf.”
Barry amassed 46 points in the singles Stableford to edge out Leigh Williams (45pts) who was runner-up.
Third was Neil Stableford (43) while fourth and fifth places went to Phil Hudson (42) and Lesley Green (41).