TAVISTOCK'S rising golf star James Ruth completed his 100-holes-in-a-day challenge in under 12 hours last week, recording a magnificent 31 under par for the five and half rounds.
On his home course at Tavistock Golf Club, the 17-year-old scratch player began the gruelling task at 4.30am. Alongside in support were father Graham, who caddied for the first few rounds, and head greenkeeper Shaun Getson, who was up early to make sure the course was in tip-top condition and walked the first few holes with the pair.
The four different caddies had a hard task to keep up with the fit youngster who jogged between shots at the beginning of the day. They recorded rounds of 67 (-4), 64 (-7), 62 (-9), 67 (-4), 66 (-5), 37 (-2) making a total of 363.
James' first rest came after 36 holes. Graham Ruth said: 'The atmosphere was excellent, everybody stood back and waved him through as the course got busier in the day. They were wishing him well and urging him on.
'The club fed and watered James throughout the day which was nice.
The sponsorship should raise about £2,500 and will help towards expenses as James begins his first full British amateur season. The money will go into a trust fund which is administered by the Devon County Golf Union.
'It was a good way for James to help himself. From now on he will be living out of a suitcase until mid September trying to win some open qualifiers,' said Graham.
The former Tavistock College student is a member of England's under 18 squad and the six cards recording his achievement are on display in the clubhouse.
Before collapsing into bed for a well-earned sleep, James said: 'I am delighted, although tired, to report I was able to complete the 100 holes challenge.
'This year has started very well for me and the fantastic support which the club and members have shown is really appreciated.
'Wednesday was a good day and my game was in good shape.'
His mother Beverley said her son was asleep by 8.30pm and slept solidly for 12 hours.
'He hasn't been to bed that early since the age of seven,' she said.
l Results of the ladies' silver open held on June 18: Scratch and Molly Muirhead Salver Victoria Coe with a gross 80. 1st handicap Jane Wright (Staddon) nett 70, 2nd Liz Slee (Launceston) 71 countback on the back nine, 3rd Shirley Trevena (Yelverton) 71, 4th Kate Guest (Taunton and Pickeridge) 74, 5th Jane Harrison (Holsworthy) 77. Vet's prize Doris West (Staddon) nett 77. Front nine Margaret Foster (Tavistock) 34 and a half, back nine Elizabeth Rawlinson (Launceston) 34 and a half. Victoria Coe also won the captain‚s prize and the best handicap score by a Tavistock player.