Feeling chipper

SWING KING . . . Keith Skinkis-Loftus (left) is presented with the Chronicle Cup by Brookdale president Derek Miller (centre) and captain Jim Davies.

GOLF: A CHIPPING lesson from professional Karen Heywood proved the key to success for new Chronicle Cup champion Keith Skinkis-Loftus.

The 11-handicapper lifted the prestigious trophy at his home course of Brookdale and admitted it was Karen’s input before Saturday’s competition that had helped him to prevail by a single shot.

“I’ve had tennis elbow for two years and can’t really give it a rip from the tee,” said 50-year-old Keith.

“My handicap had gone up from eight to 11, so I knew I could do it, but I also realised getting to the greens was a problem and that I would need to get down in two to have a chance.

“That’s how it turned out. I hit only six of the 18 greens in regulation, but did manage to chip really well and that’s thanks to Karen.

“She is doing a really great job here and her advice was superb. She kept things simple and I was able to put it into practice.”

Keith was one of the early starters and was sure his nett 66 would be beaten.

”I went home to do some jobs but kept getting texts from my friends saying I was still in front - so I went back to the club. It felt fantastic when I was announced the winner.”