Excitement in the Derwent Valley
On Friday 8 August 2025, Matlock Golf Club hosted the Mizuno Golf Pairs Tour, delivering a day of competitive, friendly competition set against the spectacular backdrop of the Derbyshire landscape
Event Format and Highlights
This was a Better Ball Pairs Stableford event, using 85 % WHS handicap allowance, with playing handicap limits set at 28 for ladies and 24 for men, though any WHS index could enter
Participants had their scores recorded across multiple leaderboards:
- Main WHS Leaderboard. Official WHS handicaps required. With a minimum of six qualifying rounds in the previous 12 months
- Golfshake Leaderboard
- Gross Leaderboard—straight shootout, open to all
- Plus special competitions such as Twos, Par 3, nearest the pin, and longest drive, with prizes awarded accordingly.
The event offered impressive prize packages:
- Top six pairs received awards across different leaderboards
- Additional challenges included par‑3 nearest the pin, longest drives for both men and women, and even a free Mizuno golf bag for any Hole‑in‑One
Why This Event Stands Out
- Professional hosting with Golf Genius live scoring and side competitions adding to the day’s dynamism
- Scenic moorland setting, offering panoramic views of the Peak District, enhancing both enjoyment and challenge
- Part of a wider Derbyshire Golf Pairs circuit, with nearby venues like Chesterfield hosting the following day, fostering a regional competitive spirit.
Results from the Day
The Mizuno Pairs Tour at Matlock Golf Club saw some impressive scoring, with the leaderboard tightly packed from top to bottom.
Taking first place with a superb 44 points were Adrian De Vito and Liam De Vito.
Just one point behind on 43 were four pairs, separated only on countback. Neil Cox and Jake Hucklesby claimed second place, with Harry France and Mason Fitzsimons in third, closely followed by Graham Poole and Declan O’Dwyer in fourth, and Ben Coales with Matt Wood rounding out the top five.
The full top ten was as follows:
- Adrian De Vito & Liam De Vito – 44 points
- Neil Cox & Jake Hucklesby – 43 points
- Harry France & Mason Fitzsimons – 43 points
- Graham Poole & Declan O’Dwyer – 43 points
- Ben Coales & Matt Wood – 43 points
- Joanne Beattie & Barry Brandreth – 42 points
- Stephen Stoddart & Colin Parsons – 42 points
- Lee Clarke & Brendan Byrne – 41 points
- Fairuz Mitchell & Karen Dent – 41 points
- Michael Anderson & William Mehmet – 40 points
With such close competition and excellent scoring conditions. It was a fitting showcase for the quality of play and the friendly yet competitive spirit of the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the competition format?
A: It was a Better Ball Pairs Stableford format using 85 % WHS handicap allowance, with maximum playing handicaps of 28 for ladies and 24 for men.
Q: How were the scores recorded?
A: Scores counted across multiple leaderboard. Main WHS, Golfshake, and Gross. Plus optional side competitions like Twos and Par 3.
Q: What prizes were available?
A: Awards went to the top six pairs in each leaderboard, special prizes included nearest the pin, longest drive, and a free Mizuno bag for a Hole-in-One.
Q: Was this part of a series?
A: Yes, Matlock was one of multiple Mizuno Pairs Tour events across Derbyshire. The next was scheduled at Chesterfield Golf Club the following day.