Jack Cope Joins elite list as English Amateur Champion

Jack Cope expressed his immense pride after securing victory at the prestigious English Men’s Amateur Championship, joining an illustrious list of previous champions including Masters winner Danny Willett and Ryder Cup legends Paul Casey, Tommy Fleetwood, and Sir Nick Faldo.

The young golfer from Gloucestershire triumphed with a convincing 4&3 win over Lancashire’s Callan Barrow in a captivating 36-hole final held at Woodhall Spa Golf Club’s renowned Hotchkin Course, known affectionately as the “Home of England Golf.”

Displaying exceptional composure and precision, Cope built a commanding five-hole advantage by lunchtime, completing the morning round with a flawless seven-under-par. Despite Barrow’s determined two-under-par performance over the same stretch, Cope’s superb ball-striking and assured putting proved decisive.

Returning for the afternoon session, Cope continued to impress, extending his lead to six holes early on. Although Barrow fought valiantly to narrow the gap, Cope secured the championship with three holes remaining, sealing his victory with a crucial par putt on the 15th green.

Reflecting on his achievement, an emotional Cope, who celebrated his 21st birthday during tournament week, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled. It’s been a demanding week, and to come out on top feels incredible. To have my name alongside golfing greats like Sir Nick Faldo and Tommy Fleetwood is an amazing honour.”

The victory is particularly meaningful for Cope, who faced significant challenges over the past two years, including recovering from a broken arm. He acknowledged the support he received during this time, saying: “I owe a huge thank you to my parents, my coach Russell Covey, and everyone at Gloucestershire County Union.”

The win adds to Cope’s impressive amateur record, which includes becoming Gloucestershire’s youngest-ever county champion at just 17. He now looks forward to competing in the upcoming Brabazon Trophy at Sherwood Forest Golf Club, Nottinghamshire, aiming to become only the fourth player in history—and first since Mark Foster in 1995—to achieve the rare double of winning both titles in the same season.

“I felt calm out there, although inside it was intense,” Cope admitted. “My attitude was key—I just focused on making good shots. Callan was a fantastic opponent and friend; it was a great match, but fortunately, I managed to play exceptionally well.”

With this victory, Jack Cope has firmly established himself as one of England’s most promising golfing talents, ready to build on this momentum in future tournaments.