Hampshire teenager Tiago Fernandes has singled himself out as a golf star of the future after beating some of English golf’s best juniors to win the prestigious Douglas Johns Trophy at Harewood Downs Golf Club.
Hampshire under-14 champion Fernandes went into the 36-hole event in Buckinghamshire as a strong contender, and a score of two-under-par was enough to earn the Wellow member a one-shot victory and the coveted title.
Among the most notable names to have lifted the trophy is Justin Rose, who claimed the title in 1995 before going on to become a US Open champion, Olympic gold medallist and Ryder Cup star. Other distinguished champions include Oliver Fisher (2003), Marco Penge (2013), Alex Fitzpatrick (2014) and Kris Kim (2021), each of whom has continued their progression at the highest levels of the game. The championship has long been regarded as a platform for emerging talent and a showcase for the next generation of golfing stars.
Sebastian Mitchell (Royal Ascot) set the early pace with an opening-round 68 (one-under-par), despite dropping a couple of shots late in his round. Fernandes was the only player to better that score, carding an excellent four-under 65 to take a one-shot lead into the final 18 holes.
With eight players sitting around par and within striking distance, the championship remained wide open heading into the afternoon. Will Furness (Ringway) produced the standout round of the day, recording seven birdies and an eagle in a superb 63 to charge up the leaderboard. Fernandes, however, maintained his advantage with a composed two-over second round of 71 to hold off his rivals and secure victory by a single shot, with Furness finishing runner-up.
Matt Mayfield, general manager at Harewood Downs Golf Club, said: “This was the 33rd year that the club has had the privilege of hosting the Douglas Johns Trophy, and we are immensely proud of the championship’s rich history. Many outstanding players have competed and triumphed here before going on to enjoy successful professional careers, and this year’s tournament once again showcased the exceptional talent coming through the ranks.
“We witnessed a number of impressive performances over the two rounds, which reflects the strength of emerging talent in English golf. We would like to extend our warmest congratulations to Tiago on a thoroughly deserved victory.”
With panoramic views of the Misbourne Valley and Chiltern Hills, Harewood Downs’ course can be played as a par of 69 or 72 to suit players of all ability levels.