Baker backs it up

JUSTIN McPhee and Stephanie Baker have claimed the championship crowns for the 2025 Red Cliffs Golf Open, prevailing in their respective divisions after high quality outings.

In front of a picturesque setting, McPhee claimed the Men’s Open title in dramatic fashion, winning a sudden-death playoff against Daryl Morgan.

Both golfers finished tied on 145 strokes after two rounds with McPhee producing scores of 72 and 73, while Morgan surged with rounds of 76 and a brilliant 69.

With the pair locked at the top, the playoff was decided on the first hole, where McPhee rolled in a birdie to secure his victory.

Just behind the two leaders were Ben Hogan, who took third place outright on 148, followed closely by Cameron Stewart on 149 and Gregory Rhodes on 150 in what proved to be a hard fought men’s draw.

In the Ladies open, Stephanie Baker continued her astonishing form winning her fifth title out of her last six plays after also taking the Riverside title last weekend.

Finishing with rounds of 73 and 76 for a total of 149 was more than enough to earn a comfortable victory for the 16-year-old.

Baker’s scores kept her well clear of the chasing pack, with Lisa Garioch finishing runner up on 162.

Jenny Stephenson, Lee Bottomley and Jill Gleeson all followed in the top five.

The Red Cliffs open proved the depth of high level golfing competition currently present within the Sunraysia region.

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