Seniors Moments

It is intended to use this page to keep members informed of incidents that happen on the course during the year and will include those of a humourous nature as well as a look at the R & A rules that come into question during the course of our various competitions.

LINKS TO ALL SENIORS PAGES ARE NOW AVAILABLE ON THE SENIORS SECTION INTRODUCTION PAGE.

Members with golfing items for sale can advertise through the Seniors Web: the procedure is outlined on the Seniors News page

Enter now for DMVGA Presidents Salver (26 April Tiverton) on Notice Board (See DMVGA  Page)

EMERTON COURT – DATES FIXED FOR FIRST ROUND v. EAST DEVON _ (See DMVGA page

Wednesday February 22nd (Report from GT) With 20 of our regulars braving the weather at St Enodoc just 18 turned up for the Wednesday roll-up.  Fortunately, the rain that was forecast to arrive at mid-day never appeared and we only had the blustery wind to cope with.  18 greens and all bunkers in play for the first time in three weeks brought some reality back to the proceedings.  Scores were best described as modest with David Jones, Frank Greenwood and Wally Phillips turning in the best score of 77 points despite only getting 35 on the front 9.  Graham Thompson, Brian Mears and Jim Enright were just one point behind with an even more modest 34 points on the front 9.  Jim’s 5 points on the 16th were gratefully received by his partners but once again caused dark mutterings about reference to the Handicap Committee.  Third place went to Roger Phillips, Dennis Wright and Brian Smith whose lead with 39 points on the way out was frittered away coming back to give a total of 74.   Mike Mullarkey, Herbie Smith and Ray Gough with 68 points would have won the balls had there been any!  One team, which would not have been in the prizes, was disqualified for entering a gross score for the wrong player.  The card marking school will no doubt be reconvened in due course although the culprit on this occassion was not one of the more regular miscreants.

Monday February 20th (Reporter Graham Thompson) Owing to the early frost and the 16 temporary greens being in play, the declaration of half handicap was greeted by fewer groans (and fewer strokes lost) from the low handicap players than from the high handicappers.  In the event, the main greens were restored to play (except the 13th) by the time that the players reached the back nine; but the half handicap remained.  Altogether, 65 competitors braved the early morning frost – a good turnout for this time of year.
Cyril Dawes, playing on his own account played all 18 holes without putting a single ball into the water and won Division 1 with an excellent 40 points.  He was followed by Seniors’ Captain Phil Ollis with 37 points, Keith Napper with 36 and Arthur Moughton (36) losing on the back nine.  Division 2 players with more strokes lost could not quite match these scores; but first prize went to Anthony Jenkins with 36 points beating  John Hooper with 35 points Brian Smith was third (35) and fourthg Barry Lias. (35).  There were 15 twos but despite this large number, only two players, Ray Gough and Brian Johnston managed to record two.  A look at the overall scores suggests that both of these players had an unusually large share of bad luck on the other 16 holes.
One notable success on the day was that Roger Phillips had at last found out how to unwrap his Christmas present and he turned up the proud owner of a new trolley and golf bag.  The rest of us who are still making do with our old trolleys and bags were pleased to note that these new additions did nothing for Roger’s golf.  It was reported, however, that they did allow him to reach the greens more quickly.
John Essery continues to cope manfully with the weather in Florida as we would expect.  We reported 10 days ago that members in the clubhouse were using the words “lucky” and “b——d” in equal numbers when referring to him.  We have been asked to point out that this is only true because two of our members referred to him as a “lucky lucky b—–d”.  John can be assured that the jealous among us, and in particular the temporary contributors to this column, will welcome him back wholeheartedly in two weeks time.

JE will look forward to returning providing he can keep his distance from the local Rules Officials who can certainly show their teeth.

A rather shy Rules Official lurkes in the rough at Keysgate Golf Club (Click on photos to enlarge)

The lake Rules Offical enjoys the pleasure of watching what is potentially his next “tasty” competitor.

Friday 17th February. Only 24 players today, a group from Holsworthy, under the new reciprocal arrangements, had booked the tee for 10am nevertheless the majority in the roll up managed to start promptly from the 1st and enjoyed a free flowing round. The course was excellent with no restrictions at all which made the scores that much more commendable. The winners with 90 points Stan Gibson, Mike Conder and Tom Berry. A well balanced team, at least as far as the handicaps go, with a higher handicapper and two good lower team mates and they beat into second place Dave Warren, Jim Enright, Phil Ollis on 84pts. In third place were Colin Cole, Cyril Dawes and Walter Lonsdale with 83pts. The balls with 71 went to Den Conibear,George Crabbe and for the second time this week Basil Jose.  There are no stories reported.

Wednesday 15^th February.  A fine day for golf if a little chilly resulted in 38 players turning up of which there were no fewer than 16 in the first draw.  No doubt Tom would have like to have seen four x 4 balls but perhaps four x  three’s and a four was a good compromise.  There was only one temporary green (10th) and no handicap restriction.

Five prizes were on offer with first place going to Bob Skuse, Colin Parr and back in the winner’s enclosure after a lengthy absence Jimmy Blain.  Welcome back Jim.  The remaining places went as follows 2^nd Roger Phillips,Brian Smith,Tom Pettifer 83 pts (44back nine) 3rd. John Hooper,Den Conibeare,Denis Wright,Mike Conder 83 pts(43 back nine) 4^th John Corbett,Vic Palmer,Jim Enright,Tony Jenkins 83pts (41 back nine)  5th. Peter Knight, Barry Lias, Richard Eagles 82 pts.

The balls went to Herbie Smith, Basil Jose, and Paul Fricker with 74 pts.

There were no stories or items of interest at this time, enquiries are continuing.

Monday 13th February 2012. Unfortunately communication has broken down and the late entry is thanks to the efforts of a “friend” who realised there was no entry for the 4BBB on the Seniors Moments page and sent me an email. I knew really that asking a senior to remember for ten days that he had agreed to send me the brief would be too long.

Of course the results are on the members log in and it is congratulations to “Wallace and Gromit”  (Wally Phillips and Tom Berry) with a magnificent 45 and no domestic disputes they were a clear five points ahead of the second placed John Hooper and John Cann.

On an overcast, dull and damp day with a chilly wind there were six temps with some small holes, the shot allowance was 3/4 of 3/4 handicap. There were a few notable moments Cyril went into the water on the 10th not once but twice prompting that well know saying from partner Paul “Don’t forget you are playing with my money”. David Jones whose trolley travels independently had to engage a search team when playing the sixth the trolley had disappeared, it was eventually found having been saved by the greenside bunker any further to the right and it could have made it to the river. All set for the glory of a two on the seventh (temp, “on top” about 88 yards), John Hooper was four inches from the flag when from about 25 feet in the long stuff his partner John Cann, “canned” his chip.  Only one two counts per team per hole in a BB competition only John Cann’s name appears on the winners list. Finally the weather in Florida is glorious and so is the Bonaventure golf course I know you will all be delighted for me.

Friday February 10th “Cold again; but this time a degree or two above zero.  It was raining and with a forecast of this turning to sleet and maybe snow later in the morning.  By 08.30, the course had been closed but this did not stop a few hardy souls (some would use a less flattering description) who had either telephoned earlier or not telephoned at all turning up at the clubhouse before 10.15.  The usual suspects were present and were much cheered by Past Captain Tom Pettifer buying coffees all round. John Essery would surely have joined us had he not been stuck in Florida and the conversation inevitably turned to his plight. The words “b*****d” and “lucky” were heard frequently. We must state unequivocally, however, that it is totally untrue that the former arose more frequently than the latter. Ken Legassick caused further cheer (and surprise) by offering to buy a second round of drinks. Roger Phillips went to the hatch to help him carry them only to find that Ken had mislaid his club card leaving Roger to settle the bill. Both left shortly afterwards quickly followed by Graham Thompson and Walter Lonsdale fearing that it might be their round next.”

“I know it will make you all feel a little better if I tell you it is raining in Florida but it is welcome rain to cool me down a little before I take to the course for the weekly scramble later today.  Hope the weather improves over there at least by the 7th March.”

Wednesday February 8th A kind apprasial of todays competition for the 28 competitors, the regular author has landed in Miami any complaints please to Graham Thompson who prepared the script  and did the honourable thing and won the balls. (see later – score not available)

“The temperature was still below zero when the early birds gathered and the promise of a 10.30 lifting of the trolley ban kept them in the clubhouse.  For some at least, joining the rest of us was preferable to carrying their clubs.  The combination of small holes and temporary greens had not been to everyone’s taste on Monday and we were promised at least some large holes for this more relaxed competition.  In the event, there were only three small holes remaining so most were satisfied.  The scores returned by some of the teams suggested that the large holes were no easier to hit than the small ones, but Jim Enright, Roger Field and Colin Parr still managed a creditable 82 points.  Staying for the prizes was a new experience for Jim and he received a special round of applause for his efforts. Second prize went to Paul Willcocks, Wally Phillips (aka Smith) and Mike Conder with 78 points despite only scoring 33 points on the front 9.  Roger Phillips, Dennis Wright and Rick Eidam (75) came in third with David Warren, Tom Pettifer and Tom Berry (74) picking up the 4th prize.  A charging back 9 getting on the card for all the 9 holes in a four ball kept Barry Lias’ team away from the balls (just) leaving John Hooper, Graham Thompson and John Veale to walk away with these.
There was some consternation in the clubhouse after the game when it was discovered that John Corbett, who was rumoured to have played with pink tees, left his lavender body wash in the shower.  Still, these things are becoming the norm, so no action was necessary”

Monday 6th February. The individual stableford competition attracted an entry of 39.  I had feared when writing these notes that we may be monitored and it appears we are, by Health and Safety, who clearly insisted on the small holes on the temporary greens after it was reported Roger Phillips was afraid of falling in last Friday. That made the competition that much more difficult.  Nevertheless on half handicap (12) Brian Johnstone recorded 38 points which was a very good score, with full handicap allowance he shot 48 points and with those small holes that is excellent.  The full results are on the members log in where it will be seen after the winner there were four on 36 and a 35 making up the six prizes.

Congratulations to Mike Conder for organising the event, clearly, under the watchful eye of his “carer” Tom Pettifer, he was able to count up to 27 at least after a few attempts  The speed with which he delivered the returns was impressive – as a result many were present at the prize giving.  Thank you Mike.

Friday 3rd February 2012 Icy conditions but nevertheless a good turn out 27 players and three prizes, the early birds clearly getting plenty of run on the ball before the frost even started to come out of the ground and with 85 Roger Field, Burford Cupper and Jim Enright beat two teams in the later draw with 84 Ken Legassick, John Cann and Tom Berry who with 48 on the back 9 edged out Herbie Smith, Wally Phillips and Rick Eidam who managed 47 on the back.

Despite the cold conditions clearly it was enjoyable particularly for Tom Berry Ken Legassick and John Cann who were spectators from the 17^th observing Roger Phillips on the 13th who had arrived on the green shortly after his ball had landed, his partners were still both about 15 yards off the green, Tom Berry said “I bet Roger plays first” of course he did. The spectators were poised to give him a cheer when he sank it but he missed it to raucous laughter which could be heard on the 12th and 14th greens and beyond.  Roger when asked about it later in the club, in mitigation said “I never like those big holes they are dangerous I nearly fell in one once”

Tom Pettifer, Barry Lias and Dave Warren were the winners of the balls, there were that many scribblings on the card Tom had to check it by memory,  The card marker Dave Warren has been referred many times to Bill Rippins card marking school, he is a repeat offender.  Tom was asked “How long have you had problems with Dave’s card”  “For ever he said – at least 2 and a half years”  When asked why he let him mark the card Tom who is rarely short of an answer stumbled over a few words and said “I never mark when I am checking all the cards and Barry didn’t want to do it and David said “I’ll do it I  need the practice”.

One player today said “I see its greensomes on Monday” “No” was the reply  “its an ordinary roll up”.  The player then says raising his voice just a little and pointing to the diary “What does that say then” the response with a smile “The 9th of January”.  Some of our players are slow but I have never known one that far behind.

Wednesday 1st February. A bitterly cold start to the day, ten recognised “early birds” arrived but when it came to the early draw four decided to wait either for the sun to come out or they were fearful of being in a four ball. However in the later draw there were 23 competitors which meant two four balls and both  finished in the prizes, adding further evidence that when we reduce to half and three eighths handicaps the four balls are not really disadvantaged.  There is now a culture developing that winning the balls is within reach of any score. On the day players with the lowest card (low 60′s) left prior to prize giving but present with 72 the card marker wrote beside the score “Balls Please”  Duly rewarded were John Hooper, Rick Eidam and Mike Mullarkey with 72 points. Mike Mullarkey is no stranger to collecting the balls and usually has an excuse, today was no exception his substandard performance he attributed to losing a tooth but scrutiny of his card showed that replacing a molar is unlikely to fix his golf problems. However he did record a birdie on the 16th.

The winners today with their Captain, when passing the card to the organiser, declaring they were anticipating the balls and receiving sympathy from our Chairman, Dave Warren, Brian Smith and Cyril Dawes with a score of 81.  In second place the four ball of Wally Phillips,  Basil Jose, Stuart Lewis and Denis Wright  with 80.  Third were Bob Wilson, Jim Enright and Danny Enright (79)  Fourth were the other fourball, Roger Phillips, Mike Conder, Roger Field and John Cann (79).  Hopefully the weather will improve by Friday when we next meet.

Monday 30th January 2012. A horrible day didn’t deter seven regular members of the Roll up taking to the course after the announcement that the official competition was cancelled.  They played a thirteen hole short course and made it an individual competition the winner was Bob Wilson with 41 points.

The AGM went ahead as planned with 25 delegates turning up for a reception buffet after which Tom Pettifer was elected to chair the meeting.  A brief synopsis appears on the Seniors News page together with the Captains Address.

Friday 27th January 2012. Another eventful day in the life of the “Seniors”.  Twenty six put their hands in the bag six three balls and two four balls.  The four ball teams started on the back nine which was a massive bonus for them, the three ball groups starting on the first and behind the society they were travelling at a pedestrian pace with frequent delays.  It was so slow one of our groups decided to call it a day after seven and another, I think, got as far as nine.  The remaining three balls kept going but ran into difficulty after playing 12.  The first group noticed the yellow tee box markers on the summer 14th/winter temporary 13th tee were set apart either side of the mat and directly in line with the 13th green.  They had also seen the last of the society and a two ball following them hit from this point to the green about 50 yards down the slope.  That set the scene for the next two groups to follow suit and if they were not sure they were reassured by those in front. Having asked one player if he thought it strange the blue information post was in front of the tee he said no we just thought it was a “moveable obstruction” and we moved it. Some good scores were being recorded those with two shots must have thought it was their birthday.  However when the last three ball arrived they had a look at the tee but started to walk to the proper 13th tee, whistles and calls from the group in front were unconvincing and it was decided to check if the tee box was set up on the proper tee – it was, and this group continued from there.  There was clearly going to be a problem two different tees had been used by players in the same competition.  The two four balls having passed through the back nine much earlier didn’t encounter the same problem the yellow markers were not set out in the same place when they passed through.  Robin was consulted for a ruling after all the players had returned, he couldn’t believe how regular users of the course could believe it was intended to play to the 13th from that tee.  The scores came to the rescue and avoided another heated debate, the best three scores had all taken the correct course.  The winners Bob Skuse, Tom Berry and John Essery (81) edged victory over the two four balls with 79 John Griffin, Richard Eagles, Tony Dickinson and Tom Pettifer and 78 Rick Eidam, John Corbett, Mike Conder and Ken Legassick.  The balls went to Den Conibear, John Veale and Paul Fricker.

It is thought, but not confirmed, that the society had moved the yellow markers having arrived on that tee noticed a marker post advertising that as the 13th tee and being unfamiliar with the course played from that mat confusing all those following. I had thought that the collective noun for a group of Seniors would be “a gaggle” but having followed like sheep today I think “a flock of seniors” is more appropriate. Its certainly not a “heard”.

Wednesday 25th January 2012. What a day for Senior Moments, where do we start. “Lets start at the very beginning” and end with “The sound of music”, disappointed with just 8 competitors the “early birds” took to the course with their “feathers” ruffled.  No doubt feeling sorry for the species the organiser was quick to remedy the injustice those early guys were feeling and when he counted twenty for the later draw and he made the compassionate decision to have all four ball teams and a level playing field.

The competition was fierce and the scores were very close.  There was only one card in the seventies (77) the rest, six cards, ranged from 81 to 86.  In fact the winners of the balls (lowest score present) with 81 (Brian Smith, John Hooper, Den Conibear and Roger Phillips) were just one point behind those getting the third prize. No doubt they would have had a few more if Roger who was playing with a ball clearly marked with a green R had noticed when cleaning it before replacing in on the fairway and hitting it into the distance that the ball had a big red spot on it, Brian Smith’s (logo) – that was not once but twice (on the twelfth and again on the fourteenth). On both occasions Brians speed of thought is to be commended he was able to recover the ball before Roger could get to it and hit it again and we all know that is not easy.  There is a little mitigation, because it is normal when Roger hits his second shot on any hole regardless of where he is he nearly always has a choice of 3 or 4 balls and he often plays before his partners have arrived to claim their missiles, it therefore follows he has a greater chance of hitting the wrong ball than other players.

The presentation was full of controversy, those with the third highest score 83 (Herbie Smith, Mike Conder, Ken Lagasick (Legassick) and Tom Berry) were disqualified for failing to record all handicaps on the card under rule (http://www.randa.org/en/Rules-and-Amateur-Status/Rules-of-Golf.aspx#/rules/?ruleNum=6&subRuleNum=2) That paved the way for  Graham Thompson, Basil Jose, Peter Knight and Cyril Dawes (82) to be promoted to 3^rd place.

In second place (84) were Paul Fricker, Denis Wright, Tom Pettifer and Peter Vanstone a guest of Paul’s from Sidmouth.

The winners 86 points were Colin Parr, Tony Dickinson, Wally Smith (Phillips) and card marker John Essery. It was after Tom Pettifer had announced the result and the competition was therefore closed that he noticed John Essery had erroneously recorded Wally Phillips as Wally Smith.  The exchange of words, from all competitors, that followed was something not to be missed.  Leading the chorus for a further disqualification were those that had already been disqualified and they were vociferously supported by Basil Jose who clearly already having been promoted from 4^th to 3^rd could clearly see 2^nd place now within his sights.  However the competition had been closed and in any case it was not clear under which rule the disqualification would be made.  Robin was consulted and suggested perhaps the winners should act as gentlemen and hand back the prize.  To retain the prize the winners relied on an age old decision frequently expressed by the Senior Seniors “We’ve never done it that way that before”. Would the main protagonists in this debate have argued differently if they had read Rule 33-5. FAQ 1 (foot note) The good thing about Seniors golf is that by Friday none of us will remember who won or who we played with and order will be restored.

The “For Sale” section on the Seniors News is now in use – a chipping club is advertised for sale.

Monday 23rd January 2012. A Roll up qualifier all 18 holes, greens and bunkers in play and no restrictions not bad for January 23 the whole course was playing well and we thank all the green keepers for the hard work that goes into keeping the course available to our members during the winter months. The scores weren’t bad either 40 points for winner Ken Galvin, two 39′s for Colin Parr and Robin Bailey second and third in that order Colin with 22 on the back nine a strong finish.  In 4th place with 38 John Essery the 5th and 6th with 37 Mike Charnock and Cyril Dawes another strong finish with Mike securing 14 points on the back 6. Finally with 36 points and the best back nine (21) on that mark Den Conibear. Hard luck to Bob Skuse, Barry Lias, Ken Legassick and David Jones all with 36 points with inferior back nines.  The SS of 68 0r 38 points resulted in a several handicap adjustments Ken Galvin and Colin Parr are now both 12 (.2) and Robin Bailey is 18 (.4) The .1 adjustment sees Roger Field back to 16 (15.5) George Crabbe 25 (24.5) Alan Ruddock 26 (25.5) Jim Enright 28 (27.5) and brother Danny 23 (22.5).

Friday 20th Januasry 2012. The usual regulars turned up for the draw with the early birds waiting patiently for their ninth member before accepting it was time for the early draw Barry Lias entered the room and was quickly interrogated with the crucial question are you in the “early birds”.  Barry was slow with the answer I am not sure whether he was counting or hadn’t heard the question.  Jim Enright was looking at him longingly Barry answered “Yes” and laughter broke out.  Nine early birds took to the field. Those in the second draw were not so fortunate 21 drew a counter and Mike Conder was given number 22 having registered through the Pro Shop.  Testing conditions, high winds, did not stop at least a couple of good scores.  The winners “early birds” David Jones, Frank Greenwood and, with 38 points on the 13 holes he appeared on the card, Richard Wilson.  Their total score of 84 was equalled by the four Ball Tony Dickenson, Wally Phillips, Mike Conder and Tom Berry who lost out on the back 9. In third place Brian Smith, John Corbett and John Essery (80) and the fourth prize Ken Legassick, Mike Mullarkey and Paul Fricker (77).  On the bottom of the pile were three early birds with just 68 but they were absent and therefore with 71 points collecting the “balls” were Graham Thompson, Basil Jose and John Cann.  An unusual occurance today which should be reported Cyril was caught smiling on the course without coming in the prizes, if anybody saw it, the reason was that on the 13th where the wire stopped him from going out of bounds but left him with a difficult second but he chipped into the hole with a seven iron for a two. Monday will be a normal Roll up individual competition.

Wednesday 18 January 2012. Thirtyfour competitors took to the course which was playing without restriction, there was just one temporary green in play and that was the 13th.  The scores were good with all the winning cards between 85 and 89.  The winners (89) Richard Eagles, Tom Berry and Brian Smith finished strongly with 48 points on the back nine beating Den Conibear, Rick Eidam and John Essery (87) who started strongly with 48 going out but couldn’t sustain the pace.  Third (86) were Danny and Jim Enright, Peter Knight and David Moss who by recent results is returning to form. Fourth were Bob Skuse, Adrian Hewitt and Richard Wilson (86 losing back 9) and fifth were the Okehampton “new boys” David Jones and Stuart Lewis supported by Bob Wilson (85).  With 75  at the other end of the scale were Wally Phillips, Denis Wright and Tony Dickenson who seems attracted to the balls and will be further adding to the cargo when returning to Spain.  The four ball guests from Libbaton who were quite rightly given priority on the tee enjoyed their day and have promised to return for the Seniors Open in May for which entries have started to trickle in.  We hope for another good day on Friday when we will be back on the course.

Monday 16th January. The weather beat us today the early morning frost left us on 16 temporary “greens”, half handicap and the 4BBB was cancelled in favour of an individual stableford.  Bunkers were in play although a number of competitors decided otherwise but rest assured “big brother” was watching and scores were adjusted.  There were two excellent scores, in Division 1 Jim Kenshole scored an excellent 41 and in Division 2 Richard Eagles managed a magnificent 43.  Well done to both competitors.  The full results are available on the events list on the members login. A rules query which is of interest was posed and the answer may be a surprise to you.  One of our members asked ” if you are putting on the green and you have asked for the flagstick to be attended, when you strike the putt the person attending the flagstick fails to remove it because either he is distracted or it gets stuck and the ball strikes the flagstick, what is the ruling”.  The player putting incurs a two shot penalty.  See ruling on this link.

Friday 13th January. Captain Tom together with many of our members were absent from the Roll up paying respects to our good friend and fellow golfer Eric Tayler.   An ever present member of the Nine Hole Society he will be missed.

Such is the strength of the Seniors Roll-up we still had 26 players, the Early Birds were anxiously waiting for the draw when their numbers reached nine.  They went out as three balls with half handicap (temporaries until frost eased then full course) but it was a later four ball off 3/8th that prevailed  The winners Den Conibear, Cyril Dawes, George Crabbe and Walter Lonsdale with 76, in second place were the “early bird” team of Roger Field,  Ken Galvin and David Lee (73) and in third the other four ball Roger Phillips, Richard Eagles, Colin Parr and Tom Berry.  Further confirmation that four balls are certainly not disadvantaged when 1/2 and 3/8th handicaps are imposed.  The balls with a 61 went to Barry Lias, Paul Fricker and Stan Gibson.  Stan was hoping for a better return in fact he would have gone home with a nice pair of shoes if it hadn’t been for a major investigation.  Den Conibear was pacing around the changing room searching for his shoes and seeking the help of all available resources before he finally decided to go to the bar and check the footwear of all competitors. Thats where he found Stan sitting comfortably in the “stolen” shoes.  They were soon recovered and Stan was also reunited with his own shoes which were still in the changing rooms. That was not the only senior moment, on the course Barry Lias coming down 12 picked up a glove he enquired of the group in front which included Basil but they said they hadn’t lost one.  Such is the speed of thinking in the Seniors it was some three holes later when Basils hand must have been getting cold that he realised the glove he had turned down was his.  Glove and owner were back together but not before Barry had asked Basil why he hadn’t claimed it earlier.

Monday is the better ball event, a team of two is required at 11.30/35.

The Green Keepers revenge and Pre Season Dinner (5th March) is advertised on the Special Events page and on the Seniors Notice Board, please book early to avoid disappointment.

Wednesday 11th January A beautiful day for golf saw a turn out of 39 players excellent for the time of year, once more we were on the full course with full handicap. There were five prizes and fifteen players in the frame.  With 80 and scraping in on a better back nine “early birds” Frank Greenwood, Peter Knight and Jim Enright. Fourth Tom Pettifer, Paul Willcocks and John Essery (81). Third were Graham Thompson (for the third time in 2012) Tony Dickenson and John Cann (82).  In second place with 84, Stuart Lewis (20 p0ints on 8 of back 9) David Warren and David Lee. The winners with a magnificent 93 Brian Smith, Ken LeGassick and Denis Wright but they first had to overcome a 93 submitted in the names A Gilbert, N Sullivan and Andy Williams which had found its way into the pile. The phoney card would have been beaten on the back nine in any case.  Investigation is underway the first suspect was the President Alan Ruddock because he had marked a card in similar style.  He was interviewed by Captain Pettifer and released pending further enquiries. Many others have been eliminated because the card is too neat. Anyone with any information will be treated as a suspect. The winners of the balls Herbie Smith, Roger Field and John Veale. (65)

Monday 9th January The Greensomes competition and another little test for the Seniors I am pleased to report that all passed and there were no disqualifications or “stewards enquiries”.  The scores varied from 30 to 45 but despite some less than good scores all seemed happy primarily because it was so easy to put the blame on your partner.  One regular winner did say “I did have to curl my lip from time to time but I didn’t say anything” Well I don’t think he had to Paul is quite perceptive and read the non-verbal communication and knew things weren’t going as well as had been expected of him. At the other end of the scale two buddies from the mutual admiration society, between fags, were clocking up the points, Roger Phillips and Ken Legassick returned an impressive 45 and whats more Roger was not always first in the hole.  Well done fellas. Second place saw a return to form for David Moss ably supported by reigning Crediton Open winner George Crabbe with a solid 44.  Third were John Cann and Roger Field (42) on a better back three from 4th Peter Bryan and Stuart Lewis. A good day on the full course with the greens in good condition a credit to our green staff.  Next week is the four ball better ball and on the 30th January we have the 3-2-1 or 1-2-3 after which we will have the Seniors AGM, the Agenda is on the Seniors News page with a link to 2011 minutes.  Please make every effort to attend.

Friday 6^th January saw 30 competitors take to the short course which was six three balls and four three four balls.  Scoring was more difficult because the handicaps were ½ and 3/8 and we were on many full greens, nevertheless the scores were close ranging from 52 to 59 with one exception the winners of “the balls” with a 46. In Second place Wally Phillips, Bob Skuse and Frank Greenwood (59) The winners (subject to a “Stewards Enquiry”) also with 59 better back 9/4 a four ball Tom Pettifer, Mike Conder, John Cann and Stan “Roger” Gibson.  (Apparently Stan on occasions was putting out on the short holes before the last player left the “tee” a trait often practiced by one of our regulars).  Talking of regulars Roger Phillips was back from his trip he arrived unusually early and said “I thought there would be more here today” at that time of course others were still arriving something he rarely experiences.  But when the elderly slip out of their routine it has its problems, Roger who now has two trolleys turned up with his old trolley (he didn’t want to get his new one dirty) but forgot his battery and had to hire one so he didn’t get either of his trolley’s dirty.  I am not sure whether that affected his performance but he was part of the team achieving the 46 points along with Tom Berry and Den Conibear. ( 3rd and 4th prizes, both 56, went to 3rd Richard Eagles, Graham Thompson and Basil Jose and 4th the four Roger Field (sacked from card marking) David Warren (previously sacked from card marking), Jim Enright and David Lee (auditor). Thanks go to Mike Conder for guiding the confused competitors around the course but that did mean neglecting his card marking responsibilities.

Wednesday 4th January 2012. Twenty nine joined the roll up which included our two new members from Okehampton David Jones and Stuart Lewis. We not only extend a warm welcome to both but also congratulate both on finishing in the frame. Stuart with partners John Cann and Paul Fricker were third (63) and David with partners Basil Jose and Rick Eidam (64) were second.  The competition was played on the thirteen hole short course half handicap, catching “the worm” again were “early birds” Bob Skuse, Jim Enright and David Lee with a 66. The winners of the balls Tom Berry, Alan Ruddock and Tom Pettifer (56). Captain Tom really didn’t need any more balls, having hit into the river in front of the second tee he abseiled down the bank and recovered no fewer than six balls.  The four ball following waited anxiously on the tee whilst he climbed back up the bank with his heavy load.  The Captain had no alternative but to disqualify Herbie Smith, David Warren and Roger Field for a) Failing to sign the card and b) Failing to record full handicaps. Enquiries are continuing to find the offender any information will be treated in confidence.

Friday 30th December 2011. The last Roll up of 2011 the weather looked grim and so did the golfers, at least the weather will get better. Just ten turned up it was not certain the rain would hold off and the Roll up would go ahead so the “Early Birds” decided to set out for a nine hole four ball. The weather held and the six remaining decided to play a 9 hole Canadian Greensome linked to a Texas Scramble (Each play two shots then pick the best and continue with the scramble). There was an option to continue dependant on the weather.   It was a variation enjoyed particularly by Basil Jose, Herbie Smith and Stan Gibson (36) who were the victors over John Essery, Tom Berry and Graham Thompson (39).  Having won the prize for the 9 there was no way Herbie and Stan were going to risk losing it and they withdrew.  Tom Berry, Basil Jose, Graham Thompson and John Essery continued with an individual stableford the winner Tom Berry (the Competition was aborted at the 15th “to avoid further punishment”. At that time there was no other player on the course. A rules quiz followed in the club which confirmed different rules are applied by different players.  The rule that took most by surprise was the accidental moving of a ball whilst taking a practice swing. The answer one penalty and the ball must be replaced. See link. Interestingly Graham Thompson related an experience he had last year when his ball plugged on the slope on the 10th Green, having lifted and cleaned it he attempted to replace it but of course as soon as he put it down it rolled towards the hole.  He was at a loss as to what to do.  The answer because the ball did not come to rest when he replaced it he should find the nearest point where it can be placed at rest (not nearer the hole). If the ball had come to rest momentarily and then rolled towards the hole he would have been entitled to play it from its new position.  Click here to see the relevant rule/decision. (20-3d i and decision 20-3d 1)

Wednesday 28th December 2011 twenty seven players started and finished despite the inclement weather.  A change of competition to three scores on par 3′s two scores on par 4′s and one score on par 5′s produced some very good scores. In third place with 79 points Basil Jose, Richard Eagles and John Hooper, second with 82 points JimEnright, Richard Nicholls and Peter Knight and the winners with 84 points David Warren, Barry Lias and Herbie Smith.  There was an exception to the good scores, returning a hard earned 65 points, and where would they have been without an 8 pointer on the last, Den Conibear, Tony Dickenson and John Essery who were rewarded with the “Balls”. It is not so bad for John E and Den C who both live locally but to come all the way from Spain for such a performance must be most disappointing.  Tony will need to improve or alternatively draw better partners otherwise he will be exceeding his baggage allowance with the quality balls he will be accumulating whilst at Downes, on second thoughts he could be jettisoning a few more on the course.  Roger Phillips was missing, when last seen he said he was waiting for Santa to come with his “new” trolley and bag, perhaps he has been recruited as one of the elves he would look nice in a little green suit but there is no evidence he would be suited to giving away presents. There will be a roll up on Friday but not on Monday the tee is booked for a Club competition (3 player team medal) there are vacancies but not before 11.50am. The next Seniors competition is the “Greensomes” on Monday 9th January there are vacancies for a pair at 8.30/5 a four ball at 8.50/5 a single at 10.55 otherwise after 11.15am.

Friday 23 December the weather was not good but nevertheless thirteen “hardy” members entered the draw, three three balls and one four ball. The winds increased and the rain looked to be coming in for the day. The “hardy” starters began to have second thoughts and no doubt influenced by their scores many decided to call it a day. The first group walked back in from eleven, the third group got no further than ten and the temptation for the four ball to abort when reaching the Club House from nine was too much to resist.  The one group left on the course (Graham Thompson,  John Essery and Paul Fricker) had no-one in front and no-one behind. Accumulating points became secondary to completing the course for the Christmas bonus.  Scheming in the Club House was Captain Pettifer and all other competitors. Sounding the hooter to declare the competition void seemed to be the best option but there were paying visitors on the course, nevertheless Devon was asked to do so but said the canister was out of gas something the group in the Club were not suffering from when the successful team entered for the prize giving ceremony. Shortly after Toms taxi driver turned up 10 minutes early but it was soon apparent he wasn’t as keen now to finish early.

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