STEVE Finan finally banished the nearly-man label as his 22-year wait to win a major at Stamford Golf Club ended in a bizarre way as he landed two on the same day.
The semi-retired company director captured Vice-Captain’s Prize and the Morris Medal which were both played over 36 holes on the same day in a test not only of ability but of endurance and determination.
Steve, 58, had the best nett score – 67 and 70 for 137 – which won him Vice-Captain’s Prize.
And the scratch championship, the lowest gross score over the two rounds, enabled Steve to also win the Morris Medal with a 75.
“It was a good feeling as I have had a lot of second places in majors, and it had begun to get into my head,” he said.
“The morning round was the stepping-stone. I played incredibly well in extremely tough conditions to give myself the best chance. The second round was a matter of following a process.
“I won’t lie, I always said winning a major isn’t that important, but I was hiding. To land the Vice President’s trophy is an honour, to win the club scratch championship is a dream, I’m overwhelmed. Never did I think this was a possibility.”
Steve, whose victory has seen his handicap reduced from eight to six, described two rounds as steady rather than spectacular.
“I knew I was in contention, and it was a case of not making a mess of the second round,” he explained.
The victory was followed by vice-captain’s dinner and Steve admitted celebrations went on long into the night.
Steve played football in the Hyde and Longdendale leagues until he was aged about 35.
“I went on holiday to Mauritius and the hotel had a golf course, and somebody asked if I wanted a game. That is how it started.”
Steve admitted to not having the most natural talent, but he works hard at his game and has had a handicap as low as five.
Steve had a three-shot margin of victory in Vice-Captain’s Prize with Mark Bridge (69, 71 for 140) the runner-up.
Third was Mark Bridge (69, 71 for 140), fourth Paul Traynor (74, 68 for 142) and fifth Chris Akers (72, 71 for 143).
The best nett score after round one went to Stephen Rawding (81-16-65) and the top nett return in the second round was 86-20-66 by Chris Pogson.
- THE John Turner Trophy, a major for players aged 55 years and over, was won by David McManus who scored 42 points in the Stableford.
Runner-up was Chris Hey (41) on the card from third-placed Tim Jarvis and Robert Oag.