Sir Clive Woodward in Matchplay Championship running

The first round of the Matchplay Championship, the UK's biggest amateur golf tournament, has come to a close

Sir Clive Woodward

The first round of the Matchplay Championship, the UK's biggest amateur golf tournament, has come to a close with some big names emerging unscathed to book their place in the next round.

Reigning Men's Pairs Champions Andy Castell and Andy Billson from Collingtree Park, plus last year's Matchplay Championship Mixed Pairs winners Paul Fell and Joanne Beddows of Clays Golf Club, are two of the teams to advance.

England Rugby World Cup winning Head Coach Sir Clive Woodward and playing partner Peter Yates of the British Olympic Association are also still in the running for the Matchplay Championship.

"As the biggest event in tournament history, we're obviously thrilled to see some of the seasoned campaigners emerging," said John Woosey, managing director of the JRW Group.

"Having the likes of Sir Clive and Peter involved, speaks volumes about the calibre of the event and validates our position as one of the leading amateur golf tournaments in Europe."

The ultimate goal for the competitors is a place in the Matchplay Championship Grand Final where they'll be whisked off to enjoy seven nights at the Dubai Marriott Courtyard Hotel and four rounds of golf at the Els Club.

The once-in-a-lifetime prize is on offer to the 40 competitors who make it out of the Regional Finals in March, which are held at two Marriott venues in the UK.

The Matchplay Championship Grand Final will be televised on Sky Sports.

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