Strong fields for annual golf classic

Numbers are rising for the 2019 Albany Classic, with close to 200 competitors set to tackle the Albany Golf Club course this weekend for the annual event.

Last year’s winner of the men’s title in the Cleanaway-sponsored Classic, Graeme Antczak, of Royal Perth Golf Club, will return to defend his title at the stroke event.

This week, entries had jumped to 180 players, surpassing last year’s mark of 150.

The main contenders in the open stroke competition are likely to include Adam Chemello, Mark Solomons, Chris Thompson, Marty Van Eldik and former winner Andrei Ezergalis.

A host of local men and women will also take part on their home links course.

Up-and-coming junior Corley McLernon is one to watch in the men’s event, with the most recent local winner being Ryan Western in 2015.

A field of 34 ladies will line up for the 2019 edition of the classic.

Players will compete in 36 holes of stroke across Saturday and Sunday with a men’s and ladies’ title up for grabs.

A Stableford will also be held at the weekend with prize money for all events totalling more than $3000.