04/07/12

Englishman Banks took the senior spoils in 2011

Sunningdale's John Baldwin holds a one-stroke lead from Edzell Golf Club duo, James Watt and James Bruce, after the first round of the Scottish Seniors Championship at Luffness New Golf club on the east coast.

Baldwin posted a level-par round of 70, highlighted by three birdies in his last seven holes in the sought-after over-55s title.

The Englishman, bidding to emulate countryman Charles Banks who triumphed at Irvine (Bogside) last year, has a chasing pack tucked in behind him, with Angus club mates Watt and Bruce both on the 71 mark.

Watt dropped shots at the last two holes to blow his chance of an early lead, while Bruce had an up-and-down day. It will be day fondly remembered for his hole-in-one at the third, but he mixed with five bogeys and two birdies.

Frank Jules of the USA is among those in a group at two-over-par, with the 2011 Seniors Order of Merit winner Bob Stewart (Tulliallan) one shot further back.

Banks, meanwhile, struggled to an eight-over-par 78 and needs a strong round tomorrow to simply make the cut for the top 50 and ties who will contest Friday’s final 18 holes.

>> Click here for first round scores from the Scottish Seniors Championship