THE second qualifying league of Maldon Golf Club’s Ben Volta winter tournament continued with a betterball medal played off three quarter handicap allowance.

Twenty-three pairs competed in cold, breezy conditions and the greens were slick for the time of year following the club’s acquisition of their new greens iron.

Nevertheless, several pairs mastered the conditions to return fine scores on the day.

First place went to Pete Hawkins and Martyn Cook, with a four-under-par score of nett 67.

Two pairs returned scores of nett 68.

After countback Ed Bishop and Aaron Dickson (sub) were placed second while Steve Gearey and Mick Kempen took third place. Fourth, with a score of nett 69, were Garth Milford and Darren Mason, while Billy Mason (who turned 21 this week) and his ten-year-old partner Marley Read took fifth place with a nett 70.

The nearest the pin prize on the par three fifth/14th hole went to Ed Bishop.

Leon Griffiths won the prize for the closest second shot to the par four sixth/15th.

With only two rounds to go in the second qualifying league, Lenny Blagden and Ian Ladkin retain the league lead on 116 points.

Pete Hawkins and Martyn Cook, who have already qualified for the end of season final by virtue of winning league one, climbed three places to second but only on countback from Mick Kempen and Steve Geary, with both pairs currently on 100 points.

At lunchtime on Sunday the draw took place for the Captain’s Charity raffle.

There were several excellent prizes up for grabs including a brand new Forgan driver and putter.

Also £255 was raised for the Captain's charity.

On Saturday, Maldon men’s Mail on Sunday team travelled to their long-time rivals Burnham-on-Crouch Golf Club to compete in the second round of the national knock-out tournament.

Home advantage proved too much for the visitors as Burnham ran out 5-0 winners but a great morning’s golf was enjoyed by all competitors in closely fought battles.