Barnes sets record and wins 108th Riversdale Cup

BY iseekgolf.com | Australian Mens Amateur Tour | 2003 Riversdale Cup | Wrap | 10 Mar 2003

Australian amateur champion Kurt Barnes fired a final round -5 (67) to set a 72 hole record score of 22 under and claim victory at the 108th Riversdale Cup.

Barnes, whose home course is Muswellbrook in New South Wales, finished a massive five strokes ahead of New Zealander Bradley Iles at the Riversdale Golf Course in Melbourne. Iles, who hails from Wellington, shot a course record -9 (63) in the first round of the tournament and he was also the lowest scorer of the day with a 66 in the final round.

Barnes’ winning score of -22 (266) broke Kevin Hartley’s 1971 record by eight shots and it puts him in a perfect position to defend his Australian Amateur title in Perth, Western Australia in two weeks time.

Barnes has been contemplating a move to the professional ranks within the next year, however, his recent form has prompted him to re-evaluate his position and perhaps to make a move before the end of 2003.

Victoria’s Luke Hickmott secured third place at -14 (274) following rounds of 68, 68, 70 and 68, which equalled the previous 72-hole record.