Baker storms to state title

ROBINVALE golfer Stephanie Baker produced a birdie blitz to win her first Victorian Junior Country Championships title in Bendigo at the weekend.

The 16 year-old prodigy, who finished second at the under-18 event last year, fired eight birdies over the two rounds to crush a quality field by five strokes.

Baker scored a total of 146, eclipsing good friend Olive Spitty in an inspired second round to take home the title.

It was a deadlock entering the second round after the pair both shot 75 at Heathcote Golf Club on the first day.

But after a shaky start on day two, which saw Kerang young gun Spitty claim a three stroke lead on the first hole, Baker calmed her nerves at the Belvoir Park course in Bendigo, making five clutch birdies to finish on par.

“I was nervous, on the first hole, I hit the worst tee shot ever which went out of bounds,” Baker said.

“I was like four shots behind after the first two holes so just making those birdies really helped me to make a comeback.”

Baker, who had never played golf at either course before the event, said it was one of her best competitive performances to date.

“It was really different compared to home, the layout really suited my draw because I’ve been hitting draws and most dogleg holes were to the right,” she said.

“I don’t think I’ve ever made like eight birdies during an event before.

“I’ve known Olive for about three years now, we met through golf.

“She’s my best friend and is from Kerang, I always like competing against her.”

Baker claimed her first major title at the local level just over a month ago, when she pipped experienced golfer Sue Laird by three strokes at the Coomealla Open.

But the Robinvale College student admitted the state country title felt more impressive.

She also praised long-term coach Mike Mackenzie, who had also started working with Smith.

“Mike has helped me improve my golf in so many different areas … learning different shots, shapes on the range, decision making and more,” she said.

“I appreciate him a lot because without him I wouldn’t be the golfer I am today.”

In the boy’s event, Mildura’s Cameron Smith had a strong first round of 79, but a 92 on the second day saw him finish tied for 35th out of 61 competitors.