Barbados’ triumph in winning its first Hoerman Cup title is attributable primarily to better preparation.

This is the view of team manager Charles Edey, who said that thanks to the support of management of the golf courses, the team was equipped to pull off its historic win.

Barbados overcame stiff competition from defending champions Trinidad and Tobago and Puerto Rico to win the cup in Freeport, Grand Bahama.

Edey told NATIONSPORT that the format of preparation was changed to a three-month period in recent years.

He hailed the victory as a team effort. “The support of the other team members was critical, especially on the final day,” he said.

Team members had to overcome some difficult travel problems, including sleeping at the airport in Miami because there were difficulties with the arrangements.

Some members said they had to sleep on newspapers after a promise of hotel accommodation did not materialise. This was added to their bags going missing and not having them until late Monday, almost 24 hours after leaving Barbados.

James Johnson, the team’s captain and top player, shot under par every day to lead the team to victory, with Carlsen Leacock’s experience and solid play under pressure also being an important consideration. Some golfers said their believe Johnson’s achievement was a piece of history in itself.

Darren Boardley, the teenager enjoying his second outing, and newcomer Billy Tempro also chipped in to ensure the victory.

An elated Johnson said that the course was in excellent shape and suited his game well. “I played well all four days,” he acknowledged. He said his confidence “grew all week”.

Compliments of the Nation News