LEEDS — Leeds own Greg Payne is Alabama’s latest left handed golf champion after years of coming up just shy of the title.

Payne recently played in the 61st Annual Alabama State Left Handed Championship in Cullman at Chesley Oaks. He ended the tournament with a 70-74-67 for a 211 total and the title of Left Handed State Champion.

It was a sweet win after coming up just shy of the title in previous years.

“I have played this tournament for several years,” he said. “For the past three years, I’d finished second, second and third. It has been very disappointing.”

Payne found his disappointment swelling into growing confidence in his game as the last day of play started.

“It felt really good to step on the 18th hole on day three with a five shot lead,” Payne said.  

Payne fell in love with the game of golf when he birdied on a par three in his very first round ever.

“I had just graduated high school and was playing with some friends. I was hooked immediately,” Payne said. “I love that it is such an individual sport. There is no one to blame but me if things don’t go well.”

Payne credits a former left-handed champion, and close friend, in keeping him motivated to improve.

“My friend Johnny Brasher finished second right behind me. He had spent so many years pushing me to improve my game. Being able to finally compete with him gave me a lot of enjoyment,” Paune said.

 Brasher had put Payne out of the championship a couple of times in the past. Finally, Payne took home the massive trophy that day and a huge smile.

“The biggest challenge this game has given me is the mental concentration and discipline it requires,” Payne said. “Then, there is the honesty and integrity required out on the course.”

The Alabama State Left Handed Championship is open to any lefty that resides in Alabama. Golf is a time consuming sport but it has longevity for most players and encourages constant self-improvement as the years go by.

“Anybody at any level of play can enter this tournament,” said Payne. “There are several flights participants are divided among for play.”

Payne is of course, a fan of Phil Mickelson, the PGA’s leading lefty. He loves the St. Andrews course in Scotland, after all, it is the historic home of golf.

“I would tell young players to never cheat or lie about a score,” he said. “It is a reputation you cannot lose.”

For more information on the Alabama Left Handed Tournament visit their website at www.alleftygolf.org.