FORMER Ashton-on-Mersey junior Rory Walsh is thriving on the challenge of becoming a PGA golf professional.

After a distinguished amateur career at the club, Rory decided to take the PGA route a year ago and was delighted to pass his first-year exams with flying colours.

His achievement should set him up for the challenging final two years of the course.

Obtaining the coveted PGA qualification requires a minimum of three years’ study, with elements including sports science, psychology and business management added to usual mix of teaching and rules in a course of near-degree standard.

But Rory has thoroughly enjoyed the challenge as he continues to work under Ashton pro Kris Andrews at the club and play some top assistants’ competitions in the north west.

Rory said: "I have qualified for the National Assistant Professional’s championship at the London Club after coming through the qualifying round at Knaresborough, and I am also through to the North Region PGA championship after qualifying at Rochdale.

"I have enjoyed all of the elements of the PGA course so far and particularly enjoy teaching."

His talent in this area was noted by Ashton Captain Ken Warrington, who said: "Rory has all the makings of a really good golf coach and he has an excellent manner with the members he has been working with.

"All the club wish him well in his PGA course."

Ashton-on-Mersey’s President’s Day saw Mike Screeton romp to victory on +7 from Brian Kelly +3.

Mike was also in the frame in the fifth round of the Lawson Cup, only to be eased out on a cpo on 69 by Peter Timms and Oliver Pantoja.

The Mersey Seniors’ Open saw J Young and P Sasrin win with 44 points from the table-tennis stars Brian Kean and John Hilton 43.

Mersey Ladies played for their Vets Cup and G Johnston was an emphatic winner with 39 points, six ahead of J Young and S Milligan.

The Men’s Open saw Peter Hamlett and A Craven on top with 47 points from C Buckley and A Brindle 44.

Sale’s men are looking at the current scores in their gross and nett aggregates as the last lap of the season approaches in the battle for the Jubilee plate.

In the nett section the current leader is Rory Sullivan on 348 from Richard Stephenson 352, Gerard Clarkin 354 and Michael Walker 356.

In the gross section, Steve Price has a commanding lead as his 368 total sees him clear of Kevin Moore and Rory Sullivan, both 377 and Ian Watt 401.

A limited number of vacancies are available at some popular open events.

On Friday, August 8 a couple of slots are available at Styal Golf Club for The Valley Truro Classic Mixed Pairs American Greensome, organised by WGTB Golf. To find out more ring Alan Simmons on 0161 485 2828.

On Sunday, September 7 places are still available at Stamford for their Mixed Open Greensome Stableford – contact Mark on 07812 974 708 for details.

On the same day there will be vacancies for the Didsbury Mixed Open – contact the manager on 0161 998 9278. Finally, on Thursday, October 16 there are places available for the Stamford Seniors’ Open, with prizes going down to 25th place. Ring Tony Jenkins on 0161 338 4458.

Contact Geoff Garnett on tel/fax 0161 881 7550 or email ggggarnett@aol.com with your golf news.

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