By David Tease

Merewether’s Stacie McDonald has won the biggest title of her golfing life, while Port Kembla’s Chris Campbell has grabbed a little slice of history in the New South Wales Mid Amateur Championships.

McDonald held her nerves in check, carding her best round of the tournament, a three-over 75, to claim the women’s crown by eight shots from Bonnie Doon’s Ashleigh Arnold at Yarrawonga-Mulwala Golf Club.

Campbell, similarly, saved his best for last, posting an impressive five-under 67 – which included five birdies and an eagle – to win by four shots from The Australian Golf Club’s James Brownlow.

“I didn't really have a key as such, just tried to stay aggressive all day,” former professional Campbell said after his round.

“I set myself a goal of six under. I got to three under after nine then five under. six was always on my mind though."

“I like to always pretend I am behind and play aggressive golf; never stupid golf, just play positive and chase a target.”

Campbell’s three-peat of Mid-Am crowns is the first time the feat has been achieved in Open Amateur competition by a male golfer in NSW.

Campbell’s younger sister, Nikki, was also a three-time winner of the Women’s NSW Amateur.

A fourth straight title is on the horizon, with Campbell quick to confirm he will be back to defend.

“I’ll definitely play. Would be rude if I didn't,” he said with a broad grin. “So if things go well, then maybe four.”

In contrast to Campbell’s relaxed demeanour, McDonald was elated with her win, the biggest of her career.

“I played solid, I made a silly mistake on the third, but steadied the ship, so 75 – best round of the tournament, I’m happy with how I finished off.”

McDonald admitted nerves were always going to play a part in chasing victory and she was quick to acknowledge it took a bit of work to stay focused.

“Having my Merewether clubmate Andy (Piggott) on the bag today really helped.

“We hummed tunes around the course all day and it helped settle me down.

“This is a definite thrill, I’m holding back a few tears,” she admitted.

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