Els gives master class at Puttenham

Nico Els gave a master class in course management and handling breezy conditions in the Puttenham Pro-Am to clinch his first win of the season.

The victory meant the pro from Professional Golf Tuition Breaks also won The PGA in Surrey Order of Merit, snatching the title from Leatherhead’s Michael Lowe by just £200.

Lowe, along with the new CK Group PGA Southern Professional champion Chris Rodgers (Richings Park) and Mark James (Pyecombe), shared second place, a shot behind Els who posted a one-under par round of 70.

Commenting on his win, Els said: “I came really close in The PGA in Surrey Championship but lost the play-off, so winning here – and collecting nearly a £1,000 in the process - is a very nice boost for my confidence.

“Blustery winds combined with tree-lined fairways and well protected greens, made club selection challenging to say the least. But knowing what to hit off the tee makes a big difference, as it’s easy to get into trouble round here if you are pushing for distance with your drives.

“That said, Puttenham was in great nick and despite rain for the last 30 minutes of play and dropping a shot on my opening hole, I was very pleased with the way I played the other 17.”

Meanwhile, Lee-on-the-Solent’s James Ablett heads The PGA in England (South) money list despite carding a three-over par round of 74.

But with rich pickings on offer throughout the remainder of the season and Canterbury’s Richard Wallis hard on Ablett’s heels the positions could change.

The result means that Els has also won for 2018 snatching the title from Leatherhead’s Michael Lowe by just £200.

Despite carding a 74 in the Pro-Am, The PGA in England (South) Money List leader remains Lee-on-the-Solent’s James Ablett.

But with Canterbury’s Richard Wallis hard on his heels and rich pickings to be won throughout the remainder of the season, the current positions could still change dramatically.

For a full list of results from the Puttenham Pro-Am click here.