In a first for the Pampling Plate match play the final was a ‘battle of sexes’ affair at Caboolture Golf Club with the first female trainee to make it all the way to the last match. Alexandra Orchard won 1UP against local trainee Rick Coleman with the match going down to the final hole.

After finishing third in last year’s tournament Coleman was keen to finish in front in what will be his last opportunity to win the event which has become a favourite for the Queensland trainees.

“The Pampling Plate has become such a big event at the golf club and I was keen do well with so much support from all the members here” said Coleman. “It’s been a great opportunity to work in a club that has such great support from Rod Pampling and his family and who are so passionate about this event.”

His opponent was also keen to make the most of the once in a lifetime opportunity. After completing her education through the PGA International Golf Institute Orchard will be looking to become a Full PGA member only having to complete her final year of the traineeship.

“To be in the company of such a great player in the final of such a prestigious event made for some really strong competition” said Orchard. “I’m excited and honoured to come away with the win and also make history.”

The final match was all square after 18 holes and was even through the majority of the front nine in the afternoon round. A birdie from off the green on the 9th saw Orchard take a one hole lead going into the turn and a rare miss of the green saw Coleman give away another hole on the 11th. Coleman was able to get one hole back winning the long par 4, 13th and the pair squared the next three holes until going to the wire on the last hole. With having to make birdie on the last hole to make the match go to extra holes Coleman left his birdie putt short. Orchard only had to make par to win and even though leaving her birdie putt short was able to tap in for the win.

The win also saw the tournament champion come from Surfers Paradise Golf Club with defending champion also come from the Gold Coast club.

The Queensland trainees will now turn their attention back to their education and work, setting their sights to continue pursuing their careers in the golf industry.