Roye, Issa crowned National Amateur champions

DESPITE DRY underfoot conditions and a conversely humid atmosphere at the Caymanas Golf & Country Club, Zandre Roye and Mattea Issa emerged overall winners as the curtain came down on the three-day National Amateur Golf Championships on the weekend.

Fresh from his resounding win at the Trinidad and Tobago Open, Roy, a St Ann native secured the men’s 0-6 division title and in doing so copped his maiden national championship. His consistent performance saw him finishing with a three-over-par total of 219 strokes.

Hot on Roye’s heels was the dynamic defending champion Oshae Haye, whose plus-seven total of 223 propelled him to a commendable runner-up finish. National junior champion Trey Williams capped off a remarkable tournament after his eight over par 224 saw him finishing in third place. Jack Stein’s 11 over par 227 was good enough for fourth place, while Sean Morris who carded a two under-par 70 in the final round, secured the inaugural senior title and fifth place following his 12 over 228.

Roye believes securing his first national title is a testament to the hard work and dedication he has put in this year.

“Coming into the tournament year after year and seeing the trophy, I always wondered when am I going to get my name on it, and I guess it’s just my time now,” said Roye.

In the meantime, the Ladies’ category saw Mattea Issa shine brightly.

Issa showcased her talent, navigating the dry course with precision to card a 25 over par 241, securing the 0-12 category over many-time national champion and Jamaica Golf Association President Jodi Munn-Barrow.

Barrow carded a 32 over par 248.

Alessandra Coe rounded out the top three following her 45 over par 261.

Issa was pleased that her efforts were good enough to stave off the challenge of perennial contender Munn-Barrow.

“It feels good and I am really happy with the win but I believe I could have played a bit better as I have been playing well recently.”

Meanwhile, in the Men’s Super Senior category, Keith Stein’s masterful performance saw him clinch the title with 11 over par 227.

Stein had the only under-par round in the category following his one-under second round.

Philip Prendergast and Wayne Chai Chong put forth valiant efforts, securing second and third places respectively.