Bartley tops RJR charity tourney

Robert Bailey, Gleaner Writer

Lindy Bartley captured the third RJR Group/St Andrew Care Centre Charity Golf Tournament at the Caymanas Golf and Country Club on Sunday. The tournament was played over 18 holes.

Bartley, a member of the Caymanas Golf Club, scored 64 to claim a convincing eight-stroke victory over Lawrence Bailey (76), who was followed one stroke back by Dermot Cribbin (77).

Fidelity Motors' pair of Andrew Cargill and Phillip Gooden won the team competition.

Bartley collected the Barita Trophy and an air-condition unit for his efforts, while Bailey got a trophy and an all-inclusive weekend for two at the Grand Lido Braco hotel.

"I am really feeling good," said Bartley. "I came out to support the tournament and I ended up winning it, so it is really a great feeling for me."

Bartley started in impressive style with a birdie at the first and second holes. He then made par on the third, then carded birdies on the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh holes.

"It wasn't very difficult for me because from the first stroke, I knew it was going to be a very easy victory," Bartley pointed out.

Lester Spaulding, chairman of the RJR Group, said he was pleased with the turnout at the event.

"I think this tournament is probably the biggest one that we have had because it wasn't only a golf tournament, but also a family fun day," said Spaulding.

He added: "I think before coming here, we were almost at our target, and I believe we will make the target. We hope that we will able to hand over between $3.7 million or $4 million."

The money from the tournament will go towards taking the street boys off the roads and teaching them vocational skills.