Unfortunately Willie Thorne had to withdraw, suffering from a back injury. He is replaced in the draw by the top ranked amateur, Gary Filtness, “The Blade” who will face Barry Pinches. I have to admit that the author of this blog is happy for Gary who came agonizingly close to qualifying countless time, losing on respotted blacks. He’s ranked n°1 for a reason and I’m certain that his and Barry Pinches match will be a very high quality one!

Willie will still be at the launch dinner and at the golf event (although it’s unclear if he will actually play.