TWO Stirling students have been crowned the best golfers in their respective categories following a British tour.

Lorna McClymont and George Cannon brought home the silverware after finishing the British Universities and Colleges (BUCS) Tour in the top spot.

Both sports scholars at the University of Stirling, the golfers emerged victorious, winning their respective Order of Merit titles after the 10-event tour finished in Blairgowrie in May.

And it was a one-two for the university in both the women's and men's order with Maria Toledo Bailey and Will Coxon finishing their seasons in second place.

McClymont, a third-year sports studies student, said: “It is still early in our season, so winning the Order of Merit is a real confidence boost as we look ahead to upcoming events.

“BUCS provides the chance to play a wide range of courses across the UK – both links and inland – and it’s great to be able to challenge yourself in these conditions, against a good standard of player.”

She has been rewarded for an outstanding season with selection for the 2023 Arnold Palmer Cup – a Ryder Cup style competition between a team of student golfers from the US and a team from the rest of the world.

TOP TALENT: Lorna McClymont and George Cannon - Picture by Mark Ferguson

TOP TALENT: Lorna McClymont and George Cannon - Picture by Mark Ferguson

McClymont, who has ambitions to turn pro, will compete for Team International at the event for the third time when it goes ahead in Pennsylvania this June, having already won in 2019 and 2022.

Looking ahead to the cup, the 22-year-old added: “It will be my third time there – and there’s nothing that compares to it.

“The experience is great; you’re playing against the top players, so it’s nice to compare your games, and be in that environment and enjoy the experience.

“I was part of a winning team in 2019 and 2022 – and hopeful we can make it three.”

Men's winner Cannon, a second-year business studies student who is also hoping to make the professional scene, has made huge progress over the year to win the title.

Dean Robertson, head of golf at the university, said: “Lorna and George have both enjoyed successful seasons – competing across both the UK and Europe – and to win the BUCS Order of Merit in their respective fields, particularly given the high standard of opponent, is remarkable.

“Lorna and George are deservedly at the pinnacle of UK student golf and their success is testament to their talent, hard work and passion for their sport.

“I am incredibly proud of their efforts, and the efforts of all of the golfers on our high performance programme and look forward to seeing what we can achieve together next season.”