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I'm completely elated and in shock - I never expected to win this, I'm on cloud nine!

Background
Age: 43
Handicap: 14
Home club: Izaak Walton
Caddy: Keith Howe.
Occupation: Sales Manager for Alexander Dennis.
History: Second time in the TT

Congratulations Gary! You're the Trilby Tour Avon & SW Champion 2010 - how does it feel?
Thank you! I'm completely elated and in shock. I never expected to win this - I'm on cloud nine!

Where's the trophy right now?
It's in my house - I'm going to mount it in the living room, next to my picture and tourbag.

I never expected to be in the play-off but I managed to hold it together

What made you enter?
I played at Moortown last year but was 2 points away from qualifying so I entered this year to see if I could make it into the finals. It was a great event but I was unhappy with the way I played so thought I would have another crack at it this year. 

How do you feel about your game on the day?
It was pretty steady on the day but nothing really special. I kept the ball on the fairway but my putting was hot. I had a solid round with a good front 9 and back 9 and managed to hold it together.

The playoff was a bit nerve-wracking as I didn't expect to be in that position. I was just thrilled to be in the top three. Last year I was more nervous but this year I didn't let the cameras bother me, I tried to focus on the game.

To win the Amateur title would be amazing - and the prizes are the things that money can't buy

What are your thoughts on facing the top players across the land at the final?
Its exciting and a little nervewracking but I'm going to try and approach it with the same attitude. I'm going down for a practice round at the Bucks - if i can play as well as I did today then I've got a chance.

What would winning the Trilby Tour Championship mean to you?
I havn't even thought that far ahead! To win the amateur title would be amazing and the prizes are things that money can't buy. To walk away with those those would be incredible.

You also took a trip down to Savile Row for an exclusive William Hunt suit as part of your prize - tell us about the experience

I really enjoyed my trip to Savile Row. The suit looks great and fits really well. I was made to feel very special on the day and having the sky camera's around as well really made me feel like a superstar!!! I have a wedding soon and I'm saving the suit for that. After the wedding it will get a lot of use as I wear a suit every day for work. It's not everyone who can say they have a Savile Row suit!

Tell us about your background
I got into golf twenty years ago though playing with friends. I've played in competitions since at my golf club but nothing like the Trilby Tour.

What has been the greatest achievement so far?
I've just bought a new house but my greatest achievement would have to be having a family and being able to provide for my girlfriend and 4 year old daughter.

What's your motto in life?
What will be will be.

Who's your golf hero?
Seve Balesteros. He was awesome and the way he played was without a care. His shots were amazing and he had a great attitude. Too many of the top guys walk around with a frown but he always had a smile on his face.

My greatest achievement is being able to provide for my family

Any words for William Hunt?
Just a big thank you for putting the event on and giving an amateur like me the opportunity to be involved and featured. Everything has been quite surreal!

See full results of the Avon & SW Championship here

 

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