Regan converts at third attempt

Mark Regan the former Bath, England and British Lions hooker has won 2014 QBE Golf Classic at Spain’s La Manga Club, held in aid of Help for Heroes. The event was organised by Rugby’s Golf Club (RGC) and played on La Manga Club’s South and North courses. Regan never looked back in the 54-hole charity tournament after scoring an impressive 39 Stableford points in the first round to lead the by five points, with Welsh duo Jeremy Pugh and Andy Powell his closest pursuers.

Regan finished runner-up the last two years behind Phil de Glanville and Mark Rowley in 2012 and 2013. Former Scotland and British Lions captain Gavin Hastings headed the list of other stars from the rugby world taking part at La Manga Club, with ex-England internationals de Glanville and David Trick and former Wales stars Tom Shanklin and Mike Roberts also among the celebrities who took to the fairways, helping to raise more than £15,000 for Help for Heroes.

Regan, who plays off a handicap of eleven, said, “This year was the sixth time I’ve played in the QBE Golf Classic at La Manga and the event was the best to date. I made some great new friends from the different teams I played with each day and renewed friendships forged during my playing days on Lions tours and international duty. It was great to play well over the three days and win the individual event, especially after going so close the last two years, and to raise funds for the fantastic Help for Heroes charity made the win even more special.  I can’t wait for the 2015 event!”

Photo shows from left: Matt Lacy, Elliot Miller from QBE, Mark Regan, Nick Jones from Rugby’s Golf Club and Gavin Hastings