FIPPA Newsletter - April 2008.
Welcome to this edition of the FIPPA Newsletter.
MARÇAL MORE
CATALAN OPEN CHAMPION
We got the reaction of Marçal More to his billiant win at HCP1 in the Catalan International Open
Q1. Congratulations on your win a the Catalan Open. How proud are you of this achievement?
?
Without a doubt I’m delighted. It was the first International Open I played and basically I wanted to soak up the atmosphere of such a prestigious tournament. Obviously the objective was to try to win, but I was not under any pressure because I simply wanted to enjoy myself and do the best I could. When, after the second round I was in a leading position I decided to go for it and try to end up as the winner. So it was. It was a good weekend for me.
Q2. What were the key factors in your success?
I guess the most important factor was the fact that I trained a lot for the match against Ireland. We were not sufficiently accustomed to playing to EPPA distances, and although some of the fairways in Platja d’Aro are a bit longer, it was not a big problem to adapt. I was familiar with those lengths, and despite the fact that I had had never previously played the HCP 1 EPPA course, my plan was to not commit too many mistakes, to concentrate and remain patient and hope for a little luck. These were the keys to my victory.
Q3. A few words about your nearest rivals?
More than words I would prefer praise, and not about my closest rivals, but about my playing partners. We all know that in Catalonia we have about 20 – 25 players who would be favourites to win any of the important tournaments. But one of the things I like about the sport is that there is a tremendously friendly atmosphere among all of us. This was obvious, for example during the final round. The four of us who had a chance, and wished, to win the championship always congratulated each others birdies and good shots. To say that they are brilliant players and competitors would not be saying anything new.
Marçal More
Q4. Does international Pitch and Putt have a future?
I would say a definite ‘yes’. As my good friend, Joan Perich said, “Pitch & Putt is a sport in where fitness, age, sex, wealth etc. are secondary elements. As he pointed out, the poor guy can beat the richer one and the kid can beat the dad. The very fact that the sport can be enjoyed by everyone means that there is great potential for international development. Right now there are ongoing contacts with the Asiatic giant, China. In fact I believe it is tremendously important that EPPA and FIPPA continue to organise several international competitions, besides those organised at a national level. In this way one can introduce the game in those countries where Pitch & Putt has not been played to date. Where would we be now, had Martin not moved over here to our small, but great country.
Q5. Your comments about the Hcap 1 course?
The HCP1 course is a clear example for other courses. Excellent installations aside, it has proven to be a nursery for some of the very best national payers. Back in 2007, they managed to attract what was one of the most iconic tournaments of the season; a tournament among champions which attracted the attentions of sponsors, supporters, live media coverage, and more importantly, exposure to promote our sport. Technically speaking, the course is exciting and technical, there’s a lot of variety in the layout and because of its situation, the course is in great condition throughout the year.
Q6. What memories will you take from the Platja d'Aro match against Ireland?
That too was a marvellous weekend. To be chosen to represent your team against the best in the world, and win – with the home supporters giving you every possible encouragement – was indescribable. Of course it was merely a “Friendly”, but it was also historic. But I guess the most important was the sensation of friendship and companionship among the entire group. We were mates throughout that weekend, but I will always remember them as great friends.
Q7. What's else is there for you to achieve in Pitch and Putt?
A lot I hope!! I’ve been playing for the past 6 or 7 years, but during the last couple of years I dedicate a lot of time to the game. Only last year I played the ranking competitions and finished among the best 25. I hadn’t participated in the national championship, but ended up second. Moreover, I’ve been on the national team twice. I would like to think that I can continue at this level, but I would be happy if people considered me a good Pitch & Putt player.
Regards to all – and long live Pitch & Putt
(with Martin Whitelaw)
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