Saunton Golf Club provides stunning setting for Devon's Winter Golf Series

Devon's leading golfers enjoyed a memorable visit to the magnificent Saunton Golf Club as the prestigious Devon Golf Masons Kings Winter Series continued, with valuable Order of Merit points at stake.

The spectacular East Course at Saunton provided a fitting stage for the second event of the six-round winter series, attracting some of the county's finest golfers for a competitive day of scratch Stableford golf.

With a handicap limit of five, the competition offers an opportunity for Devon's leading players to test their skills, collect valuable Order of Merit points and catch the attention of county team selectors across the various age groups.

Saunton's East Course was presented in magnificent condition, with favourable weather adding to what promised to be an excellent day's golf. Mark Sangster, manager of the Devon Golf Under-16s, had the honour of sending the field on its way.

However, despite the impressive playing conditions and stunning surroundings, scoring proved considerably tougher than anticipated.

First to make an impression was Devon Seniors' team member Ben Sclater of Warren Golf Club, who returned an excellent 33 points to establish the early clubhouse target.

His Warren teammate Tim Aggett soon raised the standard with an impressive 36 points, although he was not to enjoy sole possession of the lead for long.

Teignmouth's Women's Team player Hannah Reynolds produced an equally impressive performance, matching Aggett's 36 points to share the top honours.

Despite plenty of determined efforts from the remaining competitors, neither could be caught, leaving Aggett and Reynolds joint winners of the Saunton event.

There was also plenty to celebrate among Devon's emerging golfing talent.

Yelverton's Zach Parker produced an excellent round of 34 points to finish fourth overall, while Saunton's own Harry Cann and Dartmouth's Jake Sevran-Smalley also secured top-ten finishes.

Their performances earned valuable Order of Merit points and underlined the strength of the county's junior golfing ranks.

Order of Merit takes shape

Following two events, the overall standings are beginning to develop an interesting look.

Ben Sclater leads the way with 11 points after competing in both competitions, while Warren teammate Tim Aggett has moved into second place with 10 points from his single appearance.

Sam Dunn, also representing Warren, is level with Aggett on 10 points, having participated in both events.

Hannah Reynolds shares fourth place on nine points with Stover's Sebastian Born, while Zach Parker is currently the leading junior, sitting eighth overall with seven points.

With four events still remaining, the leaderboard remains wide open, and there will be plenty of opportunities for players to improve their positions as the series progresses.

Tavistock next on the schedule

Attention now turns to the third event, which takes place at Tavistock Golf Club on Sunday, December 13.

Entries are open, with competitors having another opportunity to test themselves against some of Devon's finest golfers and collect important Order of Merit points.

After the magnificent setting and excellent competition at Saunton, the Masons Kings Winter Series is shaping up to be an exciting contest, with plenty still to play for.