Gleeson doubles up at Central Gauteng Senior Open
Greg Gleeson says he doesn’t mind doing things the hard way after the Kyalami senior captured his second title in as many months at the Central Gauteng Senior Open at Ruimsig Country Club on Sunday.
Just three weeks ago, Gleeson staved off Gerhard Strydom and Richard Bruyns at the second play-off hole to win the Gauteng North Senior Open at Woodhill Country Club. On Sunday, the 54-year-old was at it again – this time against local favourite Stephen Johnston.
“To be fair, the opposition made it easier for me to win,” said Gleeson. “In both events I made solid pars to win, so I didn’t take the titles with anything dramatic. But as they say, a win is a win and I’m just delighted to have this kind of form early in the season.
“My main goal is to break into the top four this season. I turn 55 at the end of November and the aim is make sure I am eligible for selection when GolfRSA and the South African Golf Association names the team to play in the second Test against India at the end of the year.
“I’ve got a ways to go, but I’m lying seventh after the Central Gauteng Senior Open. It is pretty close between the guys sitting at four, five, six and seven and few more strong finishes could have me in position to qualify.”
Johnston set the first round target at his home course with a two under 70 and Gleeson was well out of contention after opening with a 75.
“I was well off the pace when we started the final round, but I shot 31 on the front nine to overhaul Steven for the lead,” said Gleeson, whose scorecard featured no less than six threes, including an eagle at the fourth.”
Gleeson fired a five-under-par 67 to set the clubhouse target at two under 142.
“Stephen and Steve (Williams) both needed birdies to force a play-off,” he said. “Steve missed his birdie chance, but Stephen boxed his for a 72, putting me in my second duel of the season.”
Gleeson sewed up the victory when he beat Johnston with a par at the first play-off hole.
“Two wins in two starts is not a bad start to the season,” Gleeson said. “I’m very serious about my goal for the season, so it’s great to start that climb to the top four early on. But I won’t mind to win the next one with a clean sweep; these play-offs add years to your life.”
Central Gauteng Senior Open Result (top 10)
142 Greg Gleeson 75 67; Stephen Johnston 70 72
143 Steve Williams 74 69
145 Duncan Neill 75 70; Schalk Naude 74 71
146 Derik Piek 73 73
147 Gordon Wessels 72 75
148 Christo Reyneke 73 75
149 Christie le Roux 77 72; Basil Naidoo 75 74; Gerhard Strydom 74 75
Written and released by Lali Stander on behalf of Golf RSA, a SAGA and WGSA Not-For-Profit company.