Youngest entry's lucky shot

Albany golfer Sam Western was lucky to even be in the Wittenoom Cup field, let alone walk away with the 2014 title at the Albany Golf Club on Sunday.

Western entered the history books as one of the youngest ever winners of the prestigious title, but if it wasn’t for a mate putting his entry form in, Western would not have competed on the weekend.

“This is only the second time I have played in the cup,” Western said.

“I normally don’t get my entry form in on time.

“A mate put it in for me this year.”

Western, who began playing golf seriously six years ago, was thrilled to win the 2014 Wittenoom Cup after scoring two consistent rounds to win by two shots from Michael Campbell.

“After I finished my last round, I knew I was a good chance,” Western said.

“In the first round I parred both nines and on the second day I had a good first nine where I shot a 31 off the stick.

“When they called my name out, I was just stoked.”

The jovial 23-year-old said he loved playing golf and having a beer after a long day on the green.

Western said he had younger cousin Ryan Western to thank for getting him into golf.

“I got my handicap when I was 17,” he said.

“Living up the road helps but it was Ryan who got me into it.

“I have him to thank, he helps me a fair bit too.”

Fellow local Alby Crocker led by two shots after the first round over Ken Carson, Andrew Penson and Western, who were all on net 68.

Western powered home in the second round of the 36-hole stroke event to finish with 134 ahead of Campbell on 136 and Penson 137.

Ross McPhee (141) finished fourth just ahead of Mick Braizer and the fast-finishing Brian Walker who both scored 145.

Ryan Western finished with 156 to claim the best gross score in the 150 competitor field.