Golf: The hole in one that won a Lamborghini

A NATIONAL newspaper golf correspondent was considering whether to turn professional last night in order to be able to accept the prize of a pounds 189,000 Lamborghini. Derek Lawrenson won the car for holing in one in a charity golf day featuring the England World Cup football squad at Mill Ride, Ascot.

Lawrenson, who works for the Sunday Telegraph, is a left-hander with a handicap of eight. A Liverpool supporter who became a father five weeks ago, he achieved the feat in the company of Paul Ince and Steve McManaman. "Now I have to decide whether to turn down the prize or turn professional," he said.

As soon as an amateur shows any intention to accept a prize worth more than the strict limit of pounds 200 he is deemed to be a professional. Professionals, who are not allowed to compete in amateur events, can be reinstated if they fail to make the grade as a pro and return to playing purely social golf.

However, in a case like Lawrenson's, a request to regain his amateur status may not be looked upon favourably. As one senior Professional Golfers' Association official said last night: "He could only send in his letter requesting his reinstatement as an amateur with his death certificate."