THERE’S a price on Robert Payne’s head.
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And golf’s guns for hire will be chasing the bounty.
This weekend the central west is set to become the wild west when the best shots from across the region set their sights on more than glory at the 2012 Orange Ex-Services' Men’s Open Amateur Golf Tournament.
In a bid to attract more players to the tournament, organisers have offered $500 to any player who can beat Payne and win the crown.
Tournament organiser Guy Chapman believes the concept is unique.
“It’s the first time I’ve ever heard of anything like this,” he said.
“We’re really looking to build some more excitement around the event, as well as attract more A-grade players.”
“It’s just a way of dangling a carrot to the better golfers out there.”
It’s far easier said than done.
Payne has long been one of the regions finest open tournament players.
And 2012 has been especially profitable for the right-hander.
In six starts this season, he’s won six titles - Dubbo, Parkes, Cowra, Bathurst, Duntryleague and the Central West Grass Greens Championships.
He’ll be looking to add the Country Club trophy, as well as Blayney and Wentworth, to his growing collection.
Payne has given his blessing to the concept.
“I spoke to Robert and he said he’s all for it,” Chapman said.
“He’s ringing his friends around country areas to try to get them to come and play.”
Chapman nominated several contenders with the potential to take the cash.
“Adrian Priest, Rob Parfett and Michael Campbell from Duntryleague will be playing with Payney and could all knock him off,” Chapman said.
“And David Chippendale and Alan Gordon are good players and will use their local knowledge as members of the Country Club.
“He’s [Payne] playing very well and will be tough to beat but there’s no certainties.”
There will also be a $1000 prize on offer for the first hole-in-one on a par three, which is yet to be decided.
So far 90 players across three grades have nominated for the tournament.
With a total of $4000 in prizes on offer and the course in fantastic condition, Chapman encouraged those thinking of entering to contact the club.
