Seniors Moments
Updates on this page will include all incidents of note which occur on the course together with R&A rules which come into focus, Roll-up results will be a feature.
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The funeral of Scott Carder took place at Exeter Crematorium on Wednesday 16th May, there was an excellent turn out particularly from the Seniors. Mike Mullarkey delivered a fine tribute to Scott and all were invited back to the Golf Club where we enjoyed a very nice buffet. Scott played a major role in “the Seniors” family and he will be sadly missed. It is of some consolation that we were able to play our part in saying farewell in paying our last respects.
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Wednesday May 16th (Graham Thompson reports) Scott Carder’s funeral took precedence for many of our regular participants who had known him and played with and against him for many years. Only 16 turned up for a game in place of the normal roll-up but the competition was closely contested nonetheless. Just 2 points separated the first four (out of five) teams with the top prize going to Nigel Evans, Colin Wheatcroft and Brian Mears on 77 points. In second place on countback were Richard Wilson, Frank Greenwood and Dave Warren with 76 points. The 4-ball were less than happy to learn that one more point would not only have taken them from third place into the prizes but would actually have made them winners on countback. There was therefore some criticism in the clubhouse of their captain, Den Conibear, for failing to contribute to the score on the 18th. This was a little unfair as he had already contributed 36 points on 16 of the first 17 holes and had carded a score about three times as high as two of his team mates.
Monday 14th May. The Seniors Open competition went ahead as scheduled a short report has been posted on the Opens and Invitations page.
Friday 11th May. Thirty eight Seniors arrived for the roll up and found the car park full, it was the West of England School for the Blind Charity day, a well organised and well attended event. Nevertheless there was room for all of us to enjoy an improvement in the weather that is except for the wind which seriously affected some of the scores returned. Mike Conder was the voice of the balls and he and his team mates Peter Bryan and Colin Cole had no difficulty coping with the conditions winning the competition with 80 points. In second place were Richard Wilson, Colin Wheatcroft and Brian Mears (79), third were Jim and Danny Enright and Bob Skuse (77) fourth Chris Horgan, Stuart Lewis and Chris Shaw (75 – 39) and the fifth and final place went to Richard Nicholls, Nigel Evans and Bob Wilson (75 – 33). At the other end of the field with just 64 points and winning the balls were last years Open Champion George Crabb, Tom Berry and Basil Jose. They were not the only team in the sixties in fact a team with 13, 14 and 21 handicappers were playing that poorly that the 21 handicapper posed the serious question to the 14 handicapper, when putting out on the 14th “do you get two shots here”. Quietly thinking he must be playing bad, apologetically he answered “I am off fourteen” We have in the past lost balls, clubs, trollies, umberellas, shoes and many other possessions but Colin Cole when playing the 9th green looked out over the car part and said to Mike Conder “where’s my car” he couldn’t see it in the car park and he was right it just wasn’t there panic was setting in when he declared “I know, my wife dropped me off this morning”.
We look forward to the Open on Monday and hope for a dry day, the amended start sheet appears on the Seniors Section, Opens and Invitations page as an attachment.
Wednesday 9th May. A busy day for the Seniors with a seven match home game aginst Saunton and a twenty man roll-up. Another win for Downes 6 to 1 sent the Saunton team back to North Devon with their tails between their legs. Herbie Smith took responsibility for the organisation of the roll up. Thank you Herbie.
The course was a little wet but otherwise in good condition and the greens are improving, all looks well for the Open on Monday. Five of the six teems (four three balls and two four balls) were within 4 points. The winners one of the four balls, Ray Gough, Mike Mullarkey, Mike Conder and Herbie Smith returned a score of 79 points beating Paul Fricker, Dennis Wright and Brian Smith (77) into second place Richard Wilson, Frank Greenwood and Peter Knight (76) were third. The team with an overwhelming lowest score beat a hasty retreat to the car park to avoid further embarrassment leaving the four ball which included three recent “golfers of the year” (Tom Berry, Colin Parr, Cyril Dawes) and John Essery to return the lowest in the club house. (75) but there were no balls.
Monday 7th May. The Bank Holiday and the possibility of unsettled weather didn’t deter the eleven regulars turing up for what was to become “the Ed Copp benefit”. A discussion took place in the Club as to what variation we could play with a three ball and two four balls. When Stan Gibson speaks you have got to take notice if only to stop him from talking, on this occasion he came up with the novel idea of an individual “medalford”. Bary Lias head cocked to one side apparently listening came up with the idea that the four balls should have full handicap. Well I suppose he was right in fact in an individual normally we all have full handicap. There was a pause for laughter before we all agreed the “medalford” idea was a good one. Stan then took time to explain to those who could hear what the format would be. Front nine a medal score (minus handicap), back nine a stableford score. Deduct the stableford score from the medal score and that is the score for the 18 holes, lowest wins. Quite easy really, but looking at the faces you could see panic in the eyes. In fact walking to the tee one competitor said to another “what are we playing” Any way all’s well that ends well and it certainly did for Ed Copp we had decided three prizes, one for the first nine medal, one for the back nine stableford and one for the overall. Ed scooped the lot relevant scores 34, 19, 15 he beat Herbie Smith and John E who both scored 35, 18 and 17. There were some big scores as a result there were mixed feelings as to whether it was a good game or not. Ed Copp thought it was.
Friday 4th May A dry day was enjoyed by 37 regulars with Graham Thompson in charge. Apparently it is becoming a regular occurrence that members are asking for an early number in the second draw, Graham made it perfectly clear that the early draw is to accommodate those that need to get away and that in future such competitors should join the early birds.
With 28 in the second draw Tom Berry drawn 28 was quick off the mark and led his team of Brian Smith, Herbie Smith and Den Conibear to the back nine and they finished well ahead of many of those with lower numbers who took their turn off the first, they scooped third prize behind the winners with 84 points Jimmy Blain, Joe Liversage and Mike Conder, second were John Corbett, Rick Eidam and Tom Pettifer 83 points. Filling the minor positions were, in fourth place Danny Enright, Roger Field and Frank Greenwood (78) and fifth Bob Skuse, Bob Wilson and Nigel Evans (77). The winners of the balls today were one of our regular beneficiaries Mike Mullarkey supported by Barry Lias and Peter Bryan. Roger Phillips was disappointed on the 15th having hit into the pond he dropped a ball under penalty hit a nice shot onto the green and realised he hadn’t got his putter despite his best efforts to get to the green in time he was denied the opportunity to say “I’ll just put this one in” but that was only on that hole.
Generously Cyril on the occasion of his 77th birthday put on a nice buffet and a drink for the group which did mean the odd persons were home later than usual. Thank you Cyril a nice gesture. It was also nice to see Norman Gill and Geoff Woolacott who turned up to socialise.
A number of regulars have expressed their intention to “roll up” on Monday (Bank Holiday) as usual.
Wednesday 2nd. May. The friendly match at home against Honiton ended in a draw. The individual results can be viewed on an attachment to the fixture on the Friendly Matches page.
Eight players went to Tavistock for their Open which unlike last year was played at a reasonable pace depite a field of 196. Our Golfer’s of the Year (last three years) Colin Parr and Tom Berry were the best finishers of the Crediton competitors and were 3rd. with 40 points.
Despite the commitments, Eric Parkes reports 30 players turned up for the roll up which was sandwiched between the Met Office Golf Society and the Seniors Match with Honiton. It started out overcast but later on in the morning, the SUN came out for what proved to be a glorious day. It was interesting listening to the various conversations in the Clubhouse prior to the draw. Brian Smith was overheard to mention to Ken Coe that he was disappointed that he had not been invited to take lunch with the Queen during her official visit to Exeter. When the draw was made, Paul Fricker gave warning that there was a very large tree that had come down across the 12th Tee and that we needed to negotiate around it by going into the woods . This gave cause for concern to Ken Coe as he wanted to know if he could get his buggy past the obstacle. On viewing the obstruction, the tree was so large that it would not have disgraced the Royal Marines Commando Training Course at Lympstone I am pleased to state that Ken returned to the Clubhouse intact with buggy. Prior to the results, it was reported that the showers had run out of hot water. This was of concern as the Seniors were only just beginning to complete their matches and would not be pleased to face having cold showers. Various comments were made from which the finger was pointed at two non senior players who were reputed to have spent over 20 minutes in the showers just chatting. Regarding the results of the roll up, the winners were Eric Parkes, Mike Conder, John Hooper with a score of 86 points. (Enquiries are continuing to establish the others that finished in the frame, Eric could only remember the winners – I wonder why!)
Monday 30th April. Another wash out – Heavy overnight rain has left the course unplayable.
Friday 27th April. Graham Thompson reports on the roll up “A good turnout of 36 seniors entered the roll-up today despite a forecast of wet weather. No doubt the cancellation of the Monday and Wednesday competitions left some with withdrawal symptoms. In the event, many had a dry round and only a few who tee-ed off late got caught by a heavy shower on the last few holes.
Paul Fricker, Ken Legassick and Brian Smith scored an impressive 87 points to win the day’s competition comfortably followed by Colin Parr, Tom Pettifer and Mike Conder in second place with 81 points and Stan Gibson, John Corbett and Tom Berry third with 78. Two teams scored 77 points to pick up the fourth and fifth prizes. Danny Enright, Brian Johnston and David Moss beat Jimmy Blain, Richard Burston and Rick Eidam on count-back with 39 points on the back nine compared with 35. Graham Thompson, John Hooper and Herbie Smith won (if that is the right word) the balls with a best forgotten total of 66 points. John blamed the slow play of earlier groups, Herbie blamed the greens and Graham just blamed himself.
The curse of the self-propelled trolley struck again, this time on the 5th/6th hole. Rick Eidam putting on the 3rd green noticed a trolley heading unaccompanied towards the 6th tee and pointed this out to Ed Copp (who was putting on the 5th ) to general amusement all round. Until, that is, Ed realised that it was his trolley. By then, the trolley had reached the ditch on the course boundary and Ed set off at something between a trot and a canter to retrieve it. He was too late – or too slow – of course.”
Friday 20th April, twenty nine competitors set out and I am pleased to report twenty nine returned but at one stage that was by no means certain in an incident packed event certainly for the first group of the late, late birds of Peter Bryan, Paul Willcocks and John Essery
Peter had noticed that John E was using a newly purchased Motorcaddy trolley, “Is yours a little sensitive on the button” he asked “Yes” was the reply, a few holes went by before on reaching the 17th tee the sensitivity set in and off went Peter’s trolley followed by the owner at a distance which was increasing by the second. Playing partner Paul Willcocks set off after him rehearsing the CPR procedures as he progressed. John Essery remained on the tee trying to remember where Peter had put the defibrillator. Trolley and owner were reunited and all appeared well until Peter pulled out his three wood and found it was sporting a severely reduced shaft. It is now in intensive care in the pro shop.
Whilst still thinking of the words he might use on this page JE who with his usual cut had sent a ball from the 17th tee at speed towards the 16th bank. The ball had not reached the bottom of the bank so he parked up his Motorcaddy on the path and whilst searching the bank it took off. Quick to respond he set off at a speed that could only be achieved by the severity of the slope. The trolley stopped well before the owner could, eventually both were reunited but the ball was gone forever.
The group had just enough energy left to wave through the following group who briefly, as they passed, asked with big smiles on their faces if there was anything they could do to help. They were told and complied with the instructions leaving quickly.
With energy totally sapped and only two players left with a ball the marker was redundant and no entry was made for the 17th.
Prior to these incidents things had not been going well in the group, Peter had stepped up to the 13th tee without his ball and said “It would be better if I had a ball” JE replied “From what I have seen so far it won’t make much difference” to which Peter barked back “You’re not doing so well yourself lately”. Peter hit his ball off the tee and that was the last he and we saw of it.
News travelled fast and by the time the team arrived in the Club the other competitors burst into song in celebration and relief that their friends had arrived safely. Thank you chaps.
It probably comes as no surprise for members to learn that the winners of the balls with 68 points today were Peter Bryan, Paul Willcocks and John Essery.
The competition winners were Bob Wilson, Bob Skuse and Wally Phillips with 83 points, Cyril Dawes, Jimmy Blain and Brian Smith were second (78 points) Eric Parkes, Mike Conder and Graham Thompson (77) were third and the fourth and final prize went on a better back nine to Basil Jose, Herbie Smith and Colin Parr (75).
Below is an unedited version of the days events written by an independent observer.
The next competition is the 1, 2 ,3 on Monday and don’t forget the Seniors Open 14th May if you wish to make an entry add your name to the list on the notice board.
Wednesday 18th April. The weather was cold and it looked like being wet. Only two “early birds” turned up for the “worms” and they decided to go it alone. Sixteen turned up for the second draw and sixteen numbers went into the bag before a glance out of the window from one member resulted in his withdrawal. One Senior who then drew 16 was quick to recognise there were now only 15 competitors - the talent of the Seniors is amazing. Having had two players fail to make the line up and another withdrawn at the start “not under starters orders”, on the course another group “pulled up” at the 15th. which meant only 12 finished. The wind was making the course very difficult and it was never going to be a high scoring day. However the winners Graham Pateman, Herbie Smith and Graham Thompson achieved a score of 77 with Graham Pateman (39 points in 15 holes) playing the lead role. In second place were the the three Johnnies, Corbett, Hooper and Essery with 72 points. The remainder were in the 60′s and the winners of the balls were John Cann, Wally Phillips and Mike Mullarkey with 64. Mike Mullarkey was anxious to pay credit to the team of Roger Phillips, Ken Legassick and Dennis Wright who failed to sign their card and had the lowest score but they had 54 with three holes to play, so really Mike and his team won on merit. Roger Phillips slipped his signature on the card but everyone knew he wouldn’t have marked it, he signed under “players signature” and is now under investigation for violation of trade descriptions.
Monday 16th April The only brief available for the Niblick is the result which can be viewed on the Members Login, it will be seen that the winner of the Niblick was the winner of Division 2 winner Danny Enright with 45 points. The runner up and winner of Division 1 was John Corbett. Danny was cut from 23 to 20 and John from 19 to 18.
The Winter Greensomes Knock out reached a climax on Wednesday last, the finalists John Cann and Paul Willcocks lined up against Herbie Smith and Bob Wilson and it proved to be a “real match” which was decided on the 18th. It was all square after 17, and both teams had par putts on the 18th John and Paul were first to putt but missed the par and recorded a four. Herbie was left with a tricky 5 foot downhill putt for the par but he proved equal to the challenge hitting the hole dead centre and sinking the putt to become with partner Bob Wilson the Winter Greensome Knock Out Champions. Well done lads, comiserations to the gallant losers.
Friday 13 April 2012. Despite a 3 to 2 win at home v. East Devon, Crediton bow out of the Emerton Court competition losing 6 to 4 on the two legs; the full result and Captains report is posted on the DMVGA page.
Wednesday 11th April 2012. The weather was kind, the roll up was supported by 38 competitors and scores were varied. The top score was 90 and the lowest 26 points behind was 64, With an Enright in the highest and another in the lowest score, it just proves that golf is not related to breeding. It was Jim Enright supported by Roger Field and Stuart Lewis who were the winners and Danny Enright, John Vinall and Peter Caston who trailed the field. Neither groups were present at the presentation but that didn’t stop those present from analysing the cards and making a variety of comments. In second place with 85 points were Walter Lonsdale, Roger Phillips and Mike Mullarkey making full use of the 73 strokes received. Third, fourth and fifth were all on 80 points with the back nine deciding the order which was third, Richard Eagles, Rick Eidam, John Hooper and Bill Dick who recorded two birdie fours on the 16th. fourth Tom Pettifer, Ken Legassick and George Crabbe, the fifth place went to Colin Parr, Brian Smith, Ed Copp and Wally Phillips. In the absence of the lowest scorers the balls went to John Veale, Peter Knight and Den Conibear (65).
It was Wally Phillips driving a Motor Caddy who provide a little amusement when playing the first hole, his trolley took off without permission before disappearing through the hazard and into the river. Fortunately little or no damage was done except to say that Wally was not on the card thereafter, but that did not stop the team from creeping into the prizes.
The trolley was not the only runaway on the day, Jimmy Blain was so far ahead of his partners on the twelth that he contemplated ringing the bell to give them a clue as to his whereabouts. Nevertheless his team mates were able to catch up most of the time to see many of his shots. It was unfortunate that Cyril Dawes missed a shortish putt on the first green but that did at least give JE the opportunity to remind Cyril he was playing with “my money”.
Easter Monday 9th April 2012. Not a nice morning but as the day went on the weather improved rewarding the nine that entered the draw for their loyalty to the Seniors roll up. There was a debate before starting as to what format the competition should take which caused confusion with at least one senior who complained his brain was hurting and voiced that marking the card could prove beyond him. A carer was appointed which seemed to settle him and it was agreed the game would be 1 score on the par 5′s, 2 scores on the par 4′s and 3 scores on the par 3′s. It was further agreed that in the event of bad weather we would stop at nine, consequently we would have two prizes one for the front nine and another for the back nine provided, of course, we went on. The draw was made and having set off that’s when the weather started to improve, Basil drew a number in the first group and it was decided to give him plenty of time before the second group took off. Well he proved, on the day, to be uncatchable and when we got to nine thank goodness the weather was good it would have been impossible for Basil to “pull up”, he was being compared with Usain Bolt. In the changing room Tom Pettifer in the last group expressed his concern that we, the second group couldn’t keep up, but we were moving up the 16th before Tom had hit off the fifteenth, which calls into question the speed his team was going.
Of course there are no extra points for speed and the winners of the front nine were Tom Pettifer, Roger Field and Stan Gibson with 44, The victors on the back nine Tom Berry, Brian Smith and John Essery with 40. The losers providing the prizes for both winning teams Basil Jose, Herbie Smith and Wally Smith-Phillips, thank you lads!
Friday 6th April Good Friday saw a small turn out of regulars, thirteen entered the draw, three 3 balls and a four ball. There was plenty of competition especially for the “honour” on the tee in the three ball of Walter Lonsdale, Roger Phillips and John Essery. Roger was anxious to go first, JE was prepared to acceed to his wishes providing he marked the card, Roger expressed his view that whoever marked the card should go last, that was not the view of JE who gave Roger a further opportunity to mark the card. The offer and rejection reached an impasse and Roger said i’ll go last and he did. Playing at the slower pace and staying with his partners did him no harm the trio played in great harmony and Roger scored 21points on the first nine which was a big influence in returning the winning score of 84. Tom Berry, Stan Gibson and Peter Knight filled the runners up spot with 83.
The answer to the Martin Rutley question (5 on the 9th having being on the green in regulation and sinking his first putt in the match v. Okehampton) the pin was left in and he hit it incurring a two shot penalty
Thursday April 5th The Emerton Court team came up against a very good East Devon side which had a single figure player right down to the last group but that didn’t stop Colin Parr and Roger Field, in group three, getting a win but unfortunately that was the only one that Crediton could manage. Next week we play the second leg with a 4 to 1 deficit which will be tough. The Captains report and full result is posted on the DMVGA page.
Wednesday April 4th With some of our regular players involved in the match against Okehampton, just 29 seniors entered the normal roll-up. We got off to a bad start when the organiser (Graham Thompson) discovered that the no. 11 token had somehow not been included in the bag. This left Graham and Tom Pettifer, who drew 10 and 12, without a partner. Some hasty reorganisation found new partners for Tom and added Graham to the last of the two 4-balls. Several explanations for this slip-up were offered, but none are printable. The upset that this caused obviously upset both Tom and Graham as neither made it into the prizes.
First prize went to Bob Skuse, Ricky Eidem and Ken Legassick with 85 points. Trailing someway behind with 81 points were David Warren, Colin Wheatcroft (and if he keeps winning he will lose his warm welcome) and Adrian Hewitt who beat Brian Mears, Jim Enright and Danny Enright into 3rd place on a better back nine. The 4-ball of Paul Fricker, Alan Ruddock, Basil Jose and Tom Berry picked up the final prize with 80 points. John Veale, Richard Eagles and Keith Napper sportingly stayed in the clubhouse long enough to collect the balls with 67 points.
The winners were greatly helped by an inspiring performance from Ken Legassick. Apparently he gave himself the incentive of only allowing himself a fag after he had scored a par or a 3-pointer. He parred the second and thereafter made so many 3-pointers that he still had one cigarette in hand when he came to the 18th. Unfortunately, by then the nicotine had taken its toll and after putting his tee shot in the bunker decided to stay there rather than compete for a place on the card.
Note: A further investigation has been undertaken in relation to the missing “11″ a Major Incident Room was set up in the bar and over a glass of red the Senior Investigating Office a former captain ably supported by an independent who claims not to have been present, as usual, until after the balls had been put in the bag. They received evidence from a small number of “reliable seniors” (they couldn’t find a large number with the qualification) and have come to the credible explanation that having counted 20 and added one who may be late, 21 numbers were put in the bag. The one who may be late was not late and was already present and counted in the 20, so number 21 had to be removed but 11 was taken out in error. The mental agility of the organiser soon came up with a simple explanation 12 (the organiser accepting punishment for the error) becomes 22 and joins 19, 20 and 21 as the last four ball, 10 is joined by 13 and 14 as the last three ball which would have been 10, 11 &12. and 15 16 17 18 are the other four ball. What could have been easier!
Experience tells you that one investigation often clears another, the friendly match players 11.30am start did say “the roll up (just in front) is running late” We now know why.
Whilst the roll up players were on the course still reflecting on the draw the friendly match v. Okehampton was in progress under Captain Phil Ollis, the team of six pairs had some tough matches with four games going to the last hole, before Downes ran to a 4 1/2 to 1 1/2 victory. One interesting moment Martin Rutley who was modelling the new club colours (trousers – “plus somethings”) reached the ninth green in the regulation two and sunk his first putt for a 5!. How could that be? Answers by email please. The full result has been posted (attachment) on the Friendly Matches page.
Monday 2nd April The first Monthly Medal of the season and a very good turn out 38 in Division 1 and 36 in Division 2. The winner in Division 1 was Brian Kelly with a gross 84 (-17) 67 who beat Mike Charnock 83 (-15) 68 and in Division two Barry Lias 85 (-20) 65 beat Jim Enright 93 (- 27) 66. The full results can be viewed on the members log in section, there were five prizes in the first Division and four in Division 2. There were an abundace of two’s. with the winners listed in the members section.
It was a pleasure to welcome another new member John Vinall who has joined us from Exeter and will be a regular in our competitions, he hopes to join the roll up on Wednesday. John played with Colin Wheatcroft who joined last week and was back to shoot another good round, his handicap will soon become active.
Mike Mullarkey was back from his recent trip to Spain. I saw him just after he had played the 14th he recounted his score as two ditches and one bunker and eventually sunk a putt for an eleven. I saw him later in the changing rooms he was really “browned off”. You will find that he will take longer changing for the next couple of weeks at least until the tan wears off. Paul Fricker was going well until he got to the 15th where he sent his tee shot across the pond to the conifer on the other side from where it dropped back into the hazard close to but not in the water. He decided to play it where it lay and two shots later he emerged from the hazard wearing mud, weeds and a lot of the water. John Cann suggested to the Chairman that it may be a good idea to leave a pair of waders beside the ball retriever.
A rules issue arose concerning the playing of a provisional arose, quite simply you can only play a provisional ball if you think you may be lost outside a hazard or out of bounds and not if you think you are in a hazard. (See Rule 26)
Friday 30th March A cold start to the day but a warm welcome for a “new” senior Colin Wheatcroft who has joined us from Woodbury. The weather warmed up and the welcome was extended when Colin with the help of Ray Gough and Richard Burston recorded the highest score of the day (81) but were placed second having been beaten by Paul Willcocks, Tom Pettifer and Richard Eagles (81) on the back nine. In third place George Crabbe, Jimmy Blain and Wally Phillips (78) and fourth were Jim Enright, Frank Greenwood and Brian Johnston (77).
Members are remined that annual subscriptions will be overdue by Monday which is our next competition day, those that have entered must ensure they have made the necessary arrangements for payment.
Wednesday 28 March A lovely spring day with a touch of frost early saw a surprisingly low turn out of just 27 (9 early birds and 18 in the later draw) The scores were not particularly high with only the winners Ed Copp, Ken Legassick and Bill Dick in the 80’s (83). All three have figured in the prizes lately and as a combination they had a clear four shot advantage on the second placed Alan Ruddock, Dennis Wright and John Essery (79) Having been well rewarded on Monday for the only two, achieved on the 15th, JE stepped up to the tee full of confidence and sunk the tee shot. In the water! His partners showed no concern whatsoever and proceeded to put their shots onto the green. In third place were three other regular winners Jim and Danny Enight and Peter Caston (78). Organiser Graham Thompson had been sitting in the club in third place until the last group appeared returning a card that dropped him back to fourth which made it that much more difficult for him to announce there were just three prizes. The winners of the balls with a score of 70 were Ray Gough, Herbie Smiff and Tom Pettifer.
The Bowood stories are still emerging, Ken Legassick is disappointed he didn’t get a mention for losing a wheel off his trolley which having set off independently on the approach to the 17th green travelled straighter, truer and probably further that any of his shots that day. Following an initial burst he refrained from chasing it on the grounds he had a medical certificate and he decided to stay and laugh just like he frequently does when he hits a bad shot.
With regard to the Bowood trip the touring party have expressed the wish to place on record their appreciation to Tom Pettifer for continuing to make the event the success it is with another good year, the sixth to date, which was well organised and full of fun.
The Bowood experience took place last week with 21 “seniors” making the trek into Cornwall for the annual competition. Unfortunately Geoffrey Woolacott had to withdraw from the golf on the second day due to his worn hip. He took on the role of Walter Lonsdale’s chauffeur and found that watching Walter play took the pressure off his own problems.
It was quite an adventurous trip and not without its “Senior Moments” Regular travellers Ken and Roger sleeping and smoking together went out of their room via the fire exit to have a “drag” only to find the door had blown shut behind them, they were stranded and unable to get back in. Fearing that they would not be missed or rescued and eliminating a “free drop” the only way to get back to where they took their last “shot” was via the fire escape and through reception, fortunately they were fully clothed which is more than could be said for another of our Seniors when he was found “out of bounds”.
Geoffrey was sharing a room with Ray Gough who immediately after playing on Wednesday retired to his room leaving the key in the door for Geoff who was in the lounge with the other members. Geoff later left to go to freshen up. Soon after Ed Copp and Den Conibear went to their room where they heard strange noises coming from the bathroom and went to investigate, only to find the little fellow wallowing in the bath barely visible through a mass of soothing bubbles that he had created which caused the “strange noises” Ed and Den had heard. A most indignant cry from Geoff sent Ed and Den out to look for their room thinking that they had gone to the wrong room but in the next room they found Ray at rest. Enquiring as to Geoffrey’s whereabouts Ray responded “he is probably in the bath” to which the retort was “yes he’s in ours”. Geoffrey was unable to explain why he hadn’t seen other bags in the room but said, “I didn’t really take much notice but I did think it strange that there were pyjamas laid out on the bed and I did give the bath a really good clean before I left”.
Strange noises were also heard in another room but that was apparently the effect of a mixture of Cider and Guinness in voluminous quantities.
Other stories at this time remain secret but it certainly seems that it was another good trip arranged by Tom Pettifer and at a very reasonable price.
The results of the two day individual competition were:
1st Ed Copp 71 pts (40 & 31 – decided on a better back 6), 2nd Tom Berry (36 & 35), 3rd 64 pts John Hooper, 4th 63 pts Barry Lias.
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Monday 26th March The roll up qualifier attracted an entry of 45 competing for seven prizes, the winner with 40 points John Hooper just one point clear of Richard Wilson on 39 both players had handicap cuts John Hooper is now 19 and Richard Wilson 27. A full list of winners can be viewed on the members log in. By popular request I have been asked to give special mention to the lucky putt on the 15th which produced the only 2 of the day. In fact it was a touch of magic at a distance of 30 feet which can be firmly put down to the addition of visual aids (contact lenses) which are for distance sight enhancement, the same lenses could be blamed for not reading the greens particularly close putts on other greens. Whilst we were enjoying the home venue Captain Parkes was orchestrating a victory (4 1/2 to 1 1/2) over Exeter in the first friendly match of the season. A one minute silence was held in honour of Robin Bailey before the dinner.
Friday 23 March The turnout was low for a Friday just 22 took to the course which included a few back from the two day competition at Bowood they bought back a few stories which I hope to publish when I have the full brief this will include the mystery of Geoff Wollacott when he ended up with a dilemma was he in “casual water” or “out of bounds” more on that story later. Todays results included some excellent scores none better than the 87 returned by David Jones, Rick Eidam and Cyril Dawes, close on their heels were Tom Berry, Bill Dick and George Crabbe with 85 and the third and final prize went to David Warren, Peter Caston and Jim Enright with 81. The balls was a tight run race won on a worse back nine by Bob Wilson, Brian Mears and Bob Skuse (71).
Wednesday March 21st (Report by Graham Thompson)
With a large contingent of our regulars braving the foreign air in Cornwall at Bowood, just 19 elite players were left to contest the home competition. The effects of the green sanding were still very much in evidence causing some difficulties in reading the speed of the greens. We really need a good heavy shower to wash the sand into the roots of the grass and into the spike holes. Fortunately, the weather was good and all enjoyed a relaxing day.
Two visiting groups out before our members caused some delays such that the last group, a 4-ball made up of Basil Jose and friends, was held up throughout the front nine. Fortunately, these two preceding groups only played nine holes and our second nine was much faster.
First prize with 84 points went to Peter Knight, Dennis Wright (now down to a handicap of 14 after his win on Monday) and Graham Thompson. Dennis’s low handicap allowance kept him off the card for several pars and even on the 12th for a birdie. Second place went to Bob Skuse, Dave Jones and Peter Caston with 82 points while Robin Tooze, Brian Mears and Jim Enright took third with 79 points. Richard Wilson, Danny Enright and Burford Cupper came in with an excellent 46 on the back nine, the highest of the day by 4 points. We will leave it to you to calculate how much trouble they must have had on the front nine. Playing last in the only four-ball obviously affected some of our members resulting in Wally Phillips, Basil Jose, John Corbett and Colin Parr (again) qualifying for the balls. None were available on the day but Colin agreed to provide some from his collection if required.
Monday 19th March. The John Baird (Handicaps 1 – 19) and the Michael Dunk (Handicaps 20 – 28) Trophy Competitions were played in very pleasant conditions with the weather warming as the day progressed giving a timely reminder that we are embarking on the competition season. The results were close particularly for the John Baird Trophy where Dennis Wright edged out Paul Fricker on the count back (last 3) both having scored 40 points. The Michael Dunk Trophy was not quite as close at the top Ken Legassick with 39 points was clear of Paul Willcocks on 36. The full results can be viewed on the events page of the members log in. Shot of the day went to Bob Skuse who took dead aim on the marker post on the 11th with his tee shot, he hit the post and the ball came back towards him prompting him to question the rationale behind putting a marker post in the middle of the fairway.
The 15th pond figured once again in the rules debate, it is yellow stakes (water hazard) and not red stakes (lateral water hazard) there is no option to drop a ball two club lengths from where it crossed the margin that is only an option for a lateral water hazard (red stakes). The “water hazard” (yellow stakes) gives just two options (drop a ball keeping the point it last crossed the hazard directly between the hole and the spot on which the ball is to be dropped or “stroke and distance” back to where the last shot was played. (See 26.1 a & b) Another problem arose this time on the 6th, a ball which had entered the lateral water hazard (river) to the right of the green could not be dropped within two club lengths without being closer to the hole therefore the only option was the “stroke and distance” option. This can be a frequent problem depending on the pin position and the entry point into the hazard. The problem was aggrevated today by the absence of posts and lines defining the boundary.
Friday 16th March Thirtyone regulars competed in the roll up with the course taking good shape as we move into the season. A lot of work has been undertaken on the greens which will soon settle down after the sanding, the fairways have been nicely trimmed and work is now being undertaken on the bunkers for the benefit of all. The efforts of the “greens staff” is much appreciated by all the seniors even if we do not always make full use of the fairways.
All scores today were within a ten point range the four prizes were within one point 82, 83 (39), 83 (43) and 83 (44). The winners Rick Eidam, Mike Conder and John Essery, runners up Roger Phillips, Dennis Wright and Tom Pettifer, in third place Colin Cole, Herbie Smith and Colin Parr and fourth Richard Nicholls, Bob Wilson and Barry Lias. After close scrutiny a regular “early bird” has been booked for a card marking refresher course with a promise he will be back in time to walk the dog. The balls went to Tom Berry, Phil Ollis and John Corbett (73) as they were presented Mike Mullarkey looked on longingly but I am sure on mature reflection he realised his lesson with Barry denied him his customary prize.
It is surprising what a good putt does for a player, Den Conibear sunk a superb putt from the back to the front of the 8th green following which in the euphoria of the moment he walked off with the flag, until he realised it wouldn’t fit into his bag. In the changing room a former Club Captain and Captain of the Seniors who will remain anonymous, having taken a shower was changing back into his dirty golfing kit no doubt in his speed to get warm following the shower.
Wednesday 14th March Another good turn out 33 competitors took on the challenges of the course with reduced handicaps (1/2 and 3/8) due to the work being carried by the Green Staff resulting in several temporary greens. Back in the fold Karaoke Ken aka “Ernie” (the fastest milkman) Roger Phillips aka “Norman (Wisdom)” who hit the longest drive on their recent tour to Spain. On the 16th at Los Aqueros a Par 3 he pulled it right and over the protective netting hitting the main road to Marbella. It was gathering speed until out of sight, “Norman” was persuaded not to go looking for it because it would take more than the regulation 5 minutes to catch it up.
The scores today varied greatly from 56 to 79. There were slight variations of course and an animated debate in the changing rooms as to which tee should have been used on the 17th. Leading the debate was Stan Gibson and throwing fuel on the fire was Mike Conder, they both made more points in the debate than they scored on the course. However, common sense prevailed and there were no disqualifications for “taking the wrong course” that is if there was a right or wrong course. Coming through to win with a score of 79 points the three Johnnies Corbett, Hooper and Essery, in second place with 76 Jim Enright (in the prizes again), David Moss and David Lee, third with 75 David Jones, Stuart Lewis, Danny Enright and Victor Palmer and the final prize went to Richard Nicholls, Richard Wilson, Brian Mears and David Warren with 74. The balls were won by an overwhelming margin by Stan Gibson, John Veale and Ray Gough with a total of 56 points.
A rule question arose today, “Do you get relief from a burrowing animal in a bunker” ? for the answer see R & A Rule 25 1b (ii)
Monday 12th March A good turn out for the Seniors 34 players took to the home course at Crediton the winners the four ball of John Cann, John Corbett, Colin Cole and George Crabbe with a magnificent 91 points a full brief is not available at this time.
Additionally thirteen of the regulars accepted the reciprocal arrangements with Taunton Vale and played that course which is the venue of our away day this year. The senior moments started on arrival Cyril always ready to talk to a “stranger” says hello to Stuart Lewis followed by “I know you from somewhere” “Yes” says Stuart, “Or is it just because you have a friendly face, we are all up from Crediton in Devon” says Cyril “Yes says Stuart and so am I”. Cyril at least knew the rest of us. By the end of the day having heard that Stuart had played well Cyril was offering to play with him sometime soon in a “better ball” competition that is always providing he recognises him. There were 12 in the draw before it was realised that Dennis Wright who had traversed the Somerset countryside before finally arriving at his destination was in the car park, when told he made it thirteen and would be in a four ball at the end he was almost afraid to join the party. Whilst no one would admit to being the organiser Mike Mullarkey was doing a sterling job meeting and greeting everyone and showing them to the club and changing rooms. There were two prizes the winners David Jones, Stuart Lewis and John Essery (86) with Tom Berry, Paul Fricker and Phil Ollis (84) runners up. The four ball of Tom Pettifer, Walter Lonsdale, Basil Jose and Denis Wright narrowly missed out on 83. Shot of the day went to Stuart Lewis who hit a low runner into the pond which skimmed the water three times before reaching dry land and continuing 20/30 yards towards the hole. Whilst Stuart was confident he could walk after it he was persuaded not to risk it. A good day was enjoyed by all Dennis decided to change his return route and not go back the same way as he came. The course at Taunton Vale should be well accepted by our seniors for the away day it is quite open, forgiving and easy to navigate. Put the date in your diary 6th June.
Friday 9th March 2012. An excellent turn out of 40 competitors on a busy day at Downes saw a range of scores from 87 to 68. The winners Bob Skuse, Roger Field and Jim Enright (87) a superb score well done. In second place, Cyril Dawes, Tom Pettifer and John Corbett (82). Third place with a better back nine went to John Cann, Herbie Smith and Eric Parkes (78). Fourth (78) Richard Eagles, Barry Lias and Paul Willcocks and the minor honours to Tom Berry, Stuart Lewis and Jimmy Blain.Whilst at least one competitor returning from vacation was thinking of wearing his “long johns” another Stuart Lewis turned out in his shorts and who said Barry Austin couldn’t work miracles. Proving he can Mike Mullarkey who said he had a lesson with Barry last week and now he is worse surely nobody would have thought that possible. However if Mike was “worse” where does that leave the winners of the balls, Basil Jose, Graham Thompson and Walter Lonsdale with a 68. Walter was quick to sacrifice Basil for their poor performance making sure the author of this report knew that Basil not known for his athleticism attempted a “back flip” on the 9th their last (that is with his putter) and missed from an estimated two inches. Walter further explained that they would have had a better back nine than the second worse team of John Essery, Peter Bryan and David Jones (69). If anyone had listened to him any longer he would no doubt have made a case for being in the frame.
A reminder the green staff will be working on the “greens” on Monday and whilst the course will be open because the holes being played will change during the day it will not be possible to have the normal Monday individual qualifier. A group of about twenty will be going to Taunton Vale to make use of our reciprocal arrangements with that club. Paul Fricker has made the necessary arrangements.
Wednesday March 7th (Graham Thompson reports) 23 seniors braved the high winds to play today. Fortunately, the rain that was forecast cleared earlier than expected and allowed a dry day. Scores were understandably low under these gusty conditions although John (super) Hooper and more particularly Mike Conder (epithet unprintable) managed to record excellent scores nonetheless. The winning team with 79 points was Alan Ruddock, Basil Jose and John Hooper. They were followed some way behind by Graham Thompson, Mike Conder and Paul Fricker with 74 points and Jim Enright, Danny Enright and Bob Wilson with 72. Golfer of the Year (last year) Colin Parr and his team of Dennis Wright and Mike Mullarkey were clear winners of the balls by 2 points with 64. That the three winning teams were the only teams to reach 70 points gives some indication of how difficult conditions were.
Monday March 5th (Graham Thompson reports)The Greenkeepers’ Revenge brought out 75 contestants playing a Texas Scramble in teams of three. The winners with a net 67 using the Gramby system were Tom Pettifer, Walter Lonsdale and John Cann on countback from Mike Conder, Steve Lay and Rick Eidam followed by Paul Ezard, Brian Mears and Richard Wilson also on 67. The stories of shots hit and shots missed are too numerous to mention here but some of our best Senior Moments were only indirectly connected with the game.
Our Arbiter of Taste, Mike Mullarkey, was apparently so concerned to ensure that he had suitable clothing for the game that he quite forgot to pick up his suit and tie for the dinner that followed. His chauffeur for the day, Brian Smith, was forced to turn back when half way to the club to collect the missing items.
Bob Wilson beat that, he completed his round of golf before discovering that his suit carrier was nowhere to be seen. Thinking that he must have left it in the car when his wife dropped him at the club that morning, he very gratefully accepted the offer of a lift back home from Wally Phillips so that he could get back in time to be properly dressed for the dinner. Unfortunately, his Sunday best was not at home either, and he then realised that he must have left it in the Pro Shop when he booked in that morning. The discussion in the car on the way back to the clubhouse was not recorded.
Golf is a game that requires both concentration and energy. After a poor shot on the 4th fairway, Ken Legassick resorted to a banana to restore his sugar levels before playing his shot over again in his mind to sort out the problem. His concentration was so great that he walked straight into the electicity pole – and lost his banana. Whether or not his golf recovered is not known.
Congratulations to Geoff Woolacott who completed his first 18 holes since his shoulder problems at the end of last year.
Eric Parkes’ golf trolley showed less stamina and collapsed (not broke down but literally collapsed) after 17. Eric, of course, continued manfully.
The dinner that followed the event was attended by almost all of the contestants, plus a few hangers-on who give eating a higher priority than exercise. Our Captain, Phil Ollis, supported by all present thanked the Greens Staff for their work during the year – although not all of their efforts on the day were appreciated by everyone. Jane’s catering and service were excellent as usual. The Captain then announced that Roger Phillips and Mike Mullarkey would round off the event with a story or two. A cry of “Redraw” was clearly heard, but Mike bravely took on the task aided by Richard Nicholls. Altogether, an excellent day and a convivial way to show our appreciation to our Greens Staff.
Friday March 2nd (Graham Thompson reports)
“27 seniors turned up to play on another pleasant spring day. Tom had to get the early arrivals out promptly to avoid causing problems for a Society at 11.00. Mike Mullarkey and Brian Smith still found time to arrange their future schedule for sharing the driving; but when Brian was asked if he would drive on Monday April 9th he replied that there would not be a game that day as it was Good Friday!
Brian followed this by driving his first ball from the tee into the fir tree just behind the gathering crowd by the clubhouse. Unfortunately, the tree failed to release the ball and Brian was left with having to take a drop and a penalty. There was some discussion among onlookers whether the two club lengths allowed should include the distance from the ball to the ground. (R&A decision) Actually, reviewing the card showed that he did not register a score on that hole, so it probably did not matter. Graham Thompson in the following group tried to emulate Brian’s feat; but he failed to get his ball to stay up in the tree and was left with a less contentious penalty and drop. He too did not feature on the scorecard for that hole (among others).
Featuring on the scorecard was not as popular today is it is on some occasions. Paul Fricker, for instance, managed to get his ball to the edge of the green for two on the 11th, but neither he nor either of his partners (Brian Smith and John Corbett) managed a point. There were some reports that they lost four balls on that hole. There are suspicions that the team spirit in that team had earlier suffered irreparable damage when John had tried to pass off an unsigned cheque to Brian for the forthcoming trip to Wales.
Paul Wilcocks was careful to count his clubs after his experience on Monday. Some claim that he did this at least twice to make sure as he had forgotten to bring his calculator.
The day’s competition was won by Basil Jose, Roger Phillips and Mike Conder with 84 points. Second with 83 points were Alan Ruddock, Stan Gibson and John Cann. Bob Skuse, Peter Caston and Bob Wilson were left to pick up third prize with 82 points beating Brian Mears, Richard Wilson and Herbie Smith with a better back nine. Neither Dave Warren, Richard Nicholls nor Brian Johnston stayed long enough to collect the balls with Mike Mullarkey, Barry Lias and Graham Thompson (with 73 points) benefiting from their absence.”
Wednesday February 29th (Reporter Graham Thompson) “There were 36 regular roll-up competitors giving organiser Tom Pettifer a problem. The Ladies had booked the tee from 11.00 for a heat of the Daily Mail competition against Exminster. In the event, Tom had to organise four draws to get us all out in time. Spring has come at last! All enjoyed warm sunshine for the whole day with only a light breeze. Most players took advantage of this by shedding a layer or two of their winter clothing with Ray Gough sporting a smart new pair of light summer trousers. Thankfully Graham Thompson did not shed any of his normal winter attire in deference to the ladies with whom the group shared the course. On the previous Friday, Wally Phillips had managed to par the 8th hole despite hitting the trees with two consecutive shots. Today, he only hit the trees once and thus made a birdie three. We shall all be expecting great things of him in future if he manages to play the hole without hitting a tree at all.
Attention was drawn today to the problem of some players not taking sufficient care to avoid spoiling the concentration of others on the course. Paul Ezzard, our leading Emerton Court player, was disturbed while putting on the 9th green by the group in front teeing off on the 10th. This resulted in a complaint to the Secretary. It was not clear exactly what the preceding group did to cause this problem; but smoke blowing over from one of Roger Phillips’ roll-your-owns seemed the most likely culprit.
There was a runaway victory for the high–powered (their own description.) team of Rick Eidam, Mike Conder and Tom Berry with 91 points. Bob Skuse, Nigel Evans and Roger Field took second place with 82 points followed by Roger Phillips (who escaped disqualification on the 10th tee), Herbie Smith and John Hooper also with 82 points but losing on the back nine. David Lee, Dan De Beaujeu and Eric Parkes with 80 points took fourth place with Colin Cole, Dennis Wright and Ken Legassick taking the fifth prize with 79 points and a better back nine than Basil Jose, Tom Pettifer and Paul Fricker.
Two teams who might have been awarded the balls for the lowest score of the day with 65 and 69 points respectively wisely (or modestly) kept away from the prize-giving leaving the prize for Tony Dickinson, Victor Palmer and Mike Mullarkey with 70 points. This was despite a 2 scored by Tony on the 12th from a sound but relatively modest tee shot. Mike Mullarkey’s celebration (two backward somersaults, one with pike, followed by running round waving his club jersey over his head) was felt by some, though common enough in his main sport, to be inappropriate for the golf course. Fortunately, only the following team saw this and no formal complaint was made. Incidentally, it is rumoured than Tony Dickinson will be auctioning the balls he has won recently in three lots after the game on March 12th before he returns to Spain the following day.
The best performance of the day was Graham Thompson’s win of £40.00 on the bonus ball. Despite pressure from others in the club house, he managed to delay buying a round of drinks until all but three of the members present already had one. Only Tom Pettifer, PaulFricker and Cyril Dawes managed to hang on long enough to benefit.
Our Ladies, by the way, won with a clean sweep. Well done to them.
Friday 24th (addition information from a protected source)
Basil Jose, Paul Willcocks and Ken Legassick were playing together, on 11th tee Ken put down his lighted fag and struck his tee shot. After which he couldn’t find the fag they all searched without success. After 5-minutes Ken decided to take a one fag penalty and lit another under smoke and distance! He finished the hole without burning it up. Hopeful that someone would hand it in he continued fearful that Roger Phillips would find it, and play it.
Friday February 24th (Field reporter Graham Thompson)
“There were just 29 of us for the roll-up despite the improvement in the weather. Rumour has it that some of those who went to St Enodoc on Wednesday vowed never to play again while others were still drying out.
Those who have ever had to check cards at Downes will know that numeracy is not our members’ greatest strength. This view was reinforced today when, following the early draw for the first seven people, Brian Mears was heard to enquire whether the number he had drawn was a six or a nine.
A total of nine teams eventually contested the day, seven 3-balls and two 4-balls. The winning teams had their task eased a little by two teams that failed to enter all of their handicaps on their cards (entering the “strokes received” only for a competiton is not acceptable – see rule 6). As a result, only seven teams competed for the four prizes. Winners with 82 points, thanks substantially to a storming performance by Wally Phillips, were Colin Cole, John Hooper, Graham Thompson and Wally P. Apart from playing well (mostly), Wally had obviously come to an agreement with the trees on the course that every time he hit his ball into one, it would return it out on the course and allow him to make a par. It worked every time. Second place went to Roger Phillips (still enjoying his new trolley), Mike Conder and Brian Smith with 80 points. They were closely followed by Basil Jose, Ken Legassick and Paul Willcocks with 79 points. In fourth place losing by one on the back nine were Colin Parr, Rick Eidam and Paul Fricker. Barry Lias, Jimmy Blain and Cyril Dawes had the consolation of winning the balls.”
The Annual Pilgramage to St Enodoc took place on Wednesday 22 February. Reporting from the scene Captain Phil Ollis. Twenty staggered around the course in the usual conditions for the event, gale force winds and pouring rain !!!! The dear old Met Office had promised a fine morning with rain moving in around 15:00. It was already raining when the first group tee’d off at 11:00. it did ease off a couple of times but for those in glasses it was impossible to see the ball on the tee half of the time let alone where the ball was going ( at least that is a good excuse for abysmal performances).That was not the worst, our dear treasurer Peter Bryan could have used some glasses to find the 12 – yes 12 balls he lost in his round. Nine of them went on the front 9 he clearly improved with only three going on the back. Frank Sanders was seen to attempt a dance in a bunker following his striking of the ball, only to go “base over apex” and end up sitting on his rear end not his “preferred lie”. It shook him and probably the whole of the golf course. Raking the acreage disturbed in the bunker took quite some time!!! Adding further expense to his trip, Walter Londsdale was seen to use a tee peg on one tee, after failing to produce his consistent use of his 3 wood in the tee box.
The winning pair were Paul Willcocks and Stuart Lewis with 31 points having a better back 9 than Ken Leggasick and Bob Skuse. Not terrific scores but not bad in the conditions well done to both teams.
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 fourth 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 lurks 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 15th 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 2nd Roger Phillips,Brian Smith,Tom Pettifer 83 pts (44back nine) 3rd. John Hooper,Den Conibeare,Denis Wright,Mike Conder 83 pts(43 back nine) 4th 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