Shave secures win after play-off in Morley Hayes Championship

11/08/2021

Craig Shave (Whetstone Golf Club) overcame Sam Dodds (Coventry Golf Club) in a play-off to win the Morley Hayes Championship.

Shave combined a first round 65 - the best round of the week – with a second round of 70 to share the lead with Sam Dodds (Coventry Golf Club).

Dodds shot up the leaderboard on day two with a round of 66, which followed his first round 69, to finish level with Shave on nine-under-par for the championship.

Dodds was positive as he waited to see whether it would come down to a play-off: “I’ve played well tee to green both rounds, it’s been very solid. I’m really pleased with how I’ve hit the ball today and the amount of birdie chances I gave myself in that wind.”

But the wind and rain didn’t stop Shave holding on to his spot at the top of the leaderboard, meaning Dodds and Shave took to the 10^th tee for a play-off, which was decided on the second play-off hole with Shave securing the win.

Shave explained: “It’s been a tough couple of days with the weather, really enjoyable though. It’s nice to win – it’s been a long time. The course held up great with the weather and the club looked after us really well so it’s been a good week.”

James Whatley (Morley Hayes Golf Club) was the driving force behind bringing the Morley Hayes Championship to his club.

He commented: “It’s been a fantastic journey to get us here. It’s a great opportunity for the golf club to showcase what they’ve got to offer. We’ve had great feedback from the guys about the greens – it’s been only positive feedback, and it’s great for them to come and see where I work as I’ve been nearly 18 years working here now.”

CLICK HERE to view a full list of scores from the Morley Hayes Championship.

The next Midland region Order of Merit event is the EH Smith Midland Professional Championship, which takes place on 14-15th September at Moseley Golf Club.