Rooke just one shot off the lead

Lee Rooke is just a shot off the lead at one under par 70 going into the second day of the Asbri Welsh National PGA Championship at Aberdovey today.

The Guilsfield based golfer is sharing second place just a shot behind the leader Graham Howell after a day when wind played a major influence.

Strong winds should be no problem for Rooke who learnt his trade on the notoriously windswsept courses at Welshpool and Llanymynech.

Rooke (pictured), one of six previous winners of the tournament in the field, said: “It was tough going out downwind. Then I came back into the wind. I dropped a couple of shots on the last two holes but would have settled for one under at the start.”

Rooke won the 2013 tournament on home territory at neighbouring Royal St David’s, a similar venue to Aberdovey.

“This track definitely suits my game,” he added. “I love a bit of links golf – it’s the only way I can get a bit of distance. As for today, a lot depends on the weather. I’ll just try and keep the ball on the fairway and see if the putter works.’

Rooke is one of five players on 70, alongside Andy Humphreys, who is the Head Professional at Aberdovey.