Big Jay's Big Fall: Jay Reading Loses Championship in Dramatic Sudden Death Playoff

The Australian Disc Golf Championships took place near Hobart, Tasmania, with Jay Reading emerging as one of the favorites to win. However, his reign was short-lived as he fell victim to a dramatic sudden death playoff against Jussi Meresma. The competition saw many talented players from around the world, including Derek Robbins and Josh Smith, but it was Reading who initially stole the show.

On Friday morning, Reading set the tone for the tournament with an impressive course record of 47 throws. His renowned putting skills allowed him to convert half chances into birdies, earning him a one-throw lead over Finland's Juho Rantalaiho. Compatriot Jussi Meresma was three throws back, while British legend Derek Robbins trailed behind with a score of 52.

The unpredictable Poimena course, situated on steep slopes above the Derwent River, proved to be a challenging and ever-changing environment for players. The forecast suggested dry conditions, but the course defied prediction by experiencing steady rain throughout the afternoon. Reading continued his strong form in the morning session, taking four throws off Rantalaiho and moving into a comfortable lead.

However, as the weekend progressed, the competition heated up, and the top three positions remained tight. Jussi Meresma moved into second place on Saturday evening, with Jay Reading still leading by one throw. The rain-bearing depression had blown itself out by Sunday morning, allowing the players to complete their rounds in fine weather.

The final round saw Big Jay's lead evaporate as Meresma and Rantalaiho made a strong comeback. The two players matched scores of 50, moving them level with Reading but one throw back respectively. This set up a thrilling sudden death playoff on a modified "safari" nine holes.

As the top three players faced off in the final round, the crowd's enthusiasm grew. Meresma dropped to two throws behind early on, but he managed to pull back and eventually overtake Reading. The decisive moment came when Reading slid his drive slightly left and it rolled out of bounds onto the tarmac, while Meresma played safe from then on.

In a post-match interview, Jussi Meresma expressed his satisfaction with the win: "It was a good victory for me because I had to fight hard to get back in contention after falling two throws behind. It was pleasing to throw two birdies and pull back under pressure." The win marked a significant achievement for Meresma, who has been competing at the top level.

The Australian Disc Golf Championships saw many talented players take part, with Des Reading winning the ladies' division and New Zealand legend Bob Gentil taking out the masters. Bruce McNaughton won the grand masters category, while Greg Bowers secured the amateur title. The tight finish and big gallery combined with the breathtaking views of the Poimena course to make this a tournament that all attendees will remember for a long time.

For more information about the Australian Disc Golf Championships, please visit adgc.com.au.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/2011-australian-disc-golf-championships