Huge congratulations go to our captain Michael McLachlan for winning the Balgreen GC Handicap Singles Knockout competition, which fielded over 20 competitors.

The defacto final was played against Ian Price utilising the Advantage 2026 handicap rules. This system employs an algorithm to decide the points target rather than using bisques. Michael had to score 8 points while Ian required just 6 points to win.

The first game was a very close fought affair going to the golden hoop but Michael prevailed, winning 8-5. Ian was undaunted and came back to win the second game 6-5; scores under Advantage 2026 rules do look strange!

In the final game Michael gave a first class demonstration of how he has reduced his handicap from a season start of 9 down to the current 4. Despite going down 3-2 at one point, he held his nerve and came back with an impressive 8-3 win.

Why was this a defacto final? Each player is entered into the competition twice. One leg is based on handicap, the other is a random draw. Michael had already beaten Emma Jamie in the first semi-final and beat Ian in the second.

If Ian had won the semi final, Michael would have had a second bite of the apple in the true final. As it was, the final lineup was Michael Vs Michael.

A doubly impressive result. 🤩🤩