14 Year Old Jesse Linden becomes the Jack's youngest winner ever

The last day of play at the Jack ended with a tense finish. Cricketer Justin Avendano led after day one with a score of 41 and stayed on top after his second round on Wednesday, finishing with 34. His total of 75 was the score to beat. As the afternoon ended, 14-year-old junior golfer Jesse Linden and world long drive champion Matt Stubbs were both close to overtaking him with their final shots.

On his final shot, Jesse Linden came in 1 under par on the 9th with a score of 76. In that moment, the Hunter Valley local became the youngest ever winner of The Jack in the event's 46-year history. With his proud Mum, Dad and Little sister by his side, Jesse became part of the legacy left by event founder Jack Newton. Both Linden and Newton called Cessnock home. The money raised at The Jack goes towards Jack Newton Junior Golf. Established in 1986 to introduce more young people to the game of golf, to nurture their skills, and to create pathways through the sport. With this much skill at such a young age, Jesse is a testament to the program's success.

As the gathered crowd celebrated Jesse's win, golfers lined up to compete in the closest to the pin NTP Shootout on the Rydges Party Hole (18th). With cash, a Finn scooter from Rydr Golf and a $15 battery system, thanks to Harris Electrical Solar, up for grabs. Each player purchased a chance to have a shot amid some fierce competition. After coming so close to taking out the tournament, the crowd was thrilled to see Justin Avendano take first place in the Shootout. 

With all the on-course action done, guests headed into the presentation dinner hosted by Richard Champion. 14-year-old Jesse Linden stepped up to claim his prize. The young prodigy's skills are the envy of every golfer in the room. Justin Avendano came in 1 point behind. The celebrity field saw the Mad Hueys come out on top, with Dean Harrington in first place on 96, Shaun Harrington equal second on 95, and magcan Mike Webb (Magic Mike, Not a stripper) on 95. Mad Hueys Ryan Helton in third spot on 93.

Once the silent auction was over, it was time to hit the dance floor, and guests were treated to a performance that would be seen nowhere else in the world. Melbourne Cup winning Jockey Robbie Dolan, Winner of the Voice Judah Kelly and Blake Noll took to the stage with house band Rubber Bullet. Blake's dad, Shannon Noll, watching proudly from his seat, saw them deliver a rendition of Tennessee Whiskey that left everyone with goose bumps and brought the room to its feet on the last note.

Shannon then stepped up with Blake to do a song that felt fitting, his classic. Lift. The whole crowd joined in and more than a few thoughts at that moment were with event founder Jack Newton and our Former Prime Minister and event Parton Bob Hawke who many times in this very room had told the story of Jack's incredible strength and love for his wife Jackie and his kids Clint and Kristie as he fought his way back from his 1983 accident to leave a legacy noone in this room or indeed the country will ever forget.

So that is The Jack done for one more year. There was some great action and outtakes captured on our socials, including a hole-in-one that has to be seen to be believed. The Jack Facebook page and Instagram for some FOMO and a reason to get in early for next year's event.

Information can also be found on the website www.thejackclassic.com.au