Congratulations are in order for Old Rossallian, Josh Fallows (Pelican 2018-2020) who has been crowned champion of the prestigious Oxford and Cambridge Golfing Society’s annual meeting The President’s Putter.

History

Founded in 1898 it is amongst the oldest golfing societies in the world. Known to members as The Society its motto is ‘Serious Fun’. The Society holds its annual meeting each January at Rye. Their members vie for the President’s Putter over 4 straight days of knock-out competition.

The original putter hangs in the Rye clubhouse with the names of the past winners along with the winner's ball. The competition has been running since 1920. MJ Reece was the last Old Rossallian to win the Putter back in 1976 and then again in 1978.

The Tournament

This year’s draw was one of the largest fields in recent times. There were 144 competitors, including Josh Fallows who is currently up at Exeter College, Oxford. Josh was making his first appearance in the competition. His friends and supporters were excited to see Josh progress steadily through the early rounds. Beating previous champion CJ Weight en route to the Quarter-Final where he squeaked past T. Etteridge, themselves winner in both 2002 & 2016.

Having secured his place on the last day of the competition and moving into the semi-finals Josh’s opposition remained staunch. Taking it all in his stride, he first beat M. Benka 4/3 (Winner in 2011 & 2019) in a close match. Onto the Final where it was an even closer match against the reigning winner Bruce Fitzpatrick. With Josh prevailing 2/1 to become Champion in his very first appearance at the tournament.

Congratulations

An incredible achievement in itself, to win through eight rounds, but not only that: Josh’s path involved beating four former champions in the process!

We look forward to many more appearances on the winner's podium for Josh.