Through the Green 2022

GOLF

THROUGH THE

GREEN

The Off icial Journal of The Army Golf Association

4

19 th Hole

5

Chair’s Foreword

6

Major Events 2023

8

Strokeplay Championship

12

High Handicap Championship

15

Inter Unit Championship

19

Golf Skills Courses 23/24

20

Matchplay & Inter Corps Championships

32

Stableford Championship

36

Inter Regional Championship

39

Quill & Club Tournament

42

Ex BIRDIE 22

45

Captain’s Report

48

Lady Captain’s Report

51

Regional Reports

65

Corps Reports

The 19th Hole with the Editor 2022 saw the resumption of a near normal season after two years of disruption

due to Covid. The only event not played was the Inter Service Championships which had to be postponed owing to the sad news of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. The Championships will now be held in April 2023, returning once again to Enville GC. The Ladies will seek to retain their Champions’ title for the fifth consecutive year, with the Mens team aiming to wrestle the trophy back from the RAF. Given the interrupted programme of the last couple of years it was great to see all our events, with the exception of the Stableford and the Inter Unit Championship, at full capacity. Unfortunately, the lack of accommodation owing to the Commonwealth Games being held in Birmingham, proved too difficult for some with regards to the Stableford

Championship but the newly designed Whittington Heath GC was absolutely superb and well worth the entry fee for next year.

As ever, our Regional and Corps Secretaries continue to work tirelessly and managed to organise around 90 Corps and 50 Regional events in 2022, which is remarkable considering this is in addition to their very busy day jobs! Their efforts are much appreciated.

And finally, I must mention our three Major Championship winners: Maj Jack Musgrove RA won the Army Strokeplay and LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS) and Spr Graham Torrie RE won their respective Matchplay Championships. Our congratulations also go out to the Ladies Player of the Year, Maj Gina Smith REME, and Mens Player of the Year, Spr Graham Torrie RE. As always, if you would like something publicised, please let us know. The very best of luck to all of you in 2023!

All results, reports and photos from 2022 events can be found on our website. Any queries should be directed to the AGA Office on aga@armygolf.co.uk or 01252 787078 / 94222 7078.

4

CHAIR’S FOREWORD

CHAIR’S FOREWORD Colonel Kieran Sheldon championship

by

12

shots

from

the

nearest

competitor, with Major Jon Howse RLC claiming second place in a hard-fought race for the runner-up spot.

Still a relatively new Championship, now in its 7th year, the High Handicap Championship, which took place in May, was brought ‘in house’ for 2022 and moved from Kingsthorpe to Test Valley Golf Club.

Major Richard Sanders is to be congratulated on driving this one from its inception in 2014, but his retirement allowed the AGA to add it to their ‘majors’ portfolio. It was superb to see so many new golfers at this event with Cpl Roshan Mabo Inf running out the eventual winner by 3 points ahead of SSgt David Whitwham RLC.

H

aving assumed the appointment in the latter

The Inter Unit event was taken by the Gurkha ARRC

half of this year’s season, I must start with a

Support Bn, with HQ Regional Command Support

thank you to my predecessor Brig Mark Pullan MBE

Branch winning the Plate and 11 (RSS) Signal

for his four years as Chair of the AGA and for

Regiment the Reserve Trophy.

continuing to hold the chairmanship of the UK Armed Forces Golf Association. Under his tenure

This year the UK Armed Forces Golf Association

the AGA continued to deliver success, to grow and

introduced

to provide fantastic opportunities to Army golfers,

competition, into which the Army entered a team

all despite having to navigate the two years of

made up of both up-and-coming golfers who had

restrictions imposed by Covid. However, he has not

not yet played for the Army and those who had not

gone far and has agreed to take up the role of

played IS Golf for some time. Such is the strength

President of the AGA. Having taken over late in the

and depth of the Army team that they convincingly

season, I have struggled to attend any events this

won the competition, with several of the team

year, so must pass on my gratitude to Steve Davis,

preparing then to represent the full Army side at

Bob Gamble and Diane Walters for representing

the next Inter Services competition

an

Inter

Service

Development

the Chair while delivering their own roles in the competitions. I have already put next year’s events

In

July

the

into the diary and hope to attend as many as

Championships returned to Saunton Golf Club,

possible. However, reflecting on the past year it is

which

obvious that it provided opportunities, successes,

Championship, 12th Army Ladies Championship

and some great golf.

and 48th Inter Corps Championship. Spr Graeme

saw

Matchplay us

play

out

and our

Inter 99th

Corps Army

Torrie RE and LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS) were the

The

season

Strokeplay

eventual Mens and Ladies winners and crowned

Championship at the wonderful Little Aston Golf

Army Matchplay Champions, LCpl Niki Sutton

Club,

which

started

the

managing to successfully defend the title. The RLC A team came away victorious in the REME Shield

Army Captain, Major Jack Musgrove RA was able to

competition, the REME A team won the Singapore

put

Trophy (Plate competition) and the RA A team won

a

hosting

stunning

the

the

36th time. With the course in superb condition the in

was

with

event

performance

to

for

win

the

5

CHAIR’S FOREWORD the Inter Corps Championship, managing to stop

the AGA in identifying, attracting and developing

the Infantry from winning a fifth year in succession.

players for a possible future Army team. Thank you

A superb event, hosted at a wonderful golf club and

for your continued efforts and support.

one which the AGA looks forward to every year.

The sponsorship support being provided by Thales, In August the Stableford Championship returned to

our headline sponsor, and the Army Sport Control

a very different Whittington Heath Golf Club. While

Board over this period has been invaluable and we

LCpl Niki Sutton was back to defend another title,

remain very grateful for it; without it we simply

she was pipped to it this time with Capt Mukunda

would not be able to deliver the events we do.

Rajali Inf who dominated the competition with 169

However, Steve Davis has been hard at work

Stableford points, with SSgt Alan Finn R Sigs and

seeking to secure additional sponsors for 2023

LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS) taking the runner-up

season.

and third places respectively. For those of you worrying about entering next year, you will be

Although I have only held this post since July, it is

pleased to know that Capt Mukunda Rajali’s

already plain to me the huge debt of gratitude

performance knocked 8 shots off his handicap!

Army Golf owes to the fantastic AGA team in the ASCB. Steve Davis and Diane Walters continue to

By September the team was raring to take on the

be the driving force behind the AGA and all its

other services. However, as the country went into a

great achievements, which are underpinned by the

period of state mourning for the passing of Her

sterling work done by Jana Daniell who continues

Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the competition was

to develop and improve the website and social

quite rightly postponed. It has been rescheduled for

media presence of the AGA. I already owe them my

April 2023 in a ‘wrap around’ between the seasons,

thanks for the support and guidance they have

so it is going to be an incredibly busy year for the

provided me, and I look forward to a wonderful next

Army teams with two Inter Service Championships

year working alongside them (once they are back

to be played in the same season amongst all their

from a winter of running skiing for the Army), and

other commitments. It is fortunate therefore that

all of you.

we have incredibly talented squads with strength in depth ready for the 2023 season.

To you all, I hope you have a good winter, manage to get some practising and some golf in during the

As ever, while I am yet to meet many of them, it is

cold and wet season and come out ready for an

due to the hard work of the Corps and Regional

even bigger and better season in 2023 and our

Secretaries and their continued support that golf in

centenary

the Army has survived and flourished during the

Championships.

year

of

the

Army

Matchplay

last difficult three years and is growing ever more popular. I once again call upon them all to support

See you next year!

MAJOR EVENTS 2023 3 - 6 Apr 23

Inter Service Championships 22 (RAF lead)

Enville GC

17 May 23

Open High Handicap Championship

Test Valley GC

22 - 24 May 23

Open Strokeplay Championship

Belton Park GC

13 - 15 Jun 23

Inter Unit Championship

Catterick GC

9 - 12 Jul 23

Army Matchplay Championship

Saunton GC

11 - 12 Jul 23

Army Ladies Matchplay Championship

Saunton GC

13 - 14 Jul 23

Inter Corps Championship

Saunton GC

31 Jul - 2 Aug 23

Open Stableford Championship

Whittington Heath GC

5 - 6 Sep 23

Inter Regional Championship

Worksop GC

18 - 21 Sep 23

Inter Service Championships 23 (RN lead)

Woodhall Spa GC

5 Oct 23

Quill & Club Tournament

The Nottinghamshire GC

6

STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP

STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP

A

fter an absence of two years, owing to the

condition having undergone some minor works

pandemic,

with particular attention to the bunkers. Some had

the

AGA

Open

Strokeplay

Championship returned to its spiritual home of

been

Little

reshaped. With freshly cut and ironed greens they

Aston

Golf

Club

(LAGC)

for

the

2022

Championship. Once again, we were grateful for

replaced,

some

removed

and

others

were lightning quick.

the generosity provided by our sponsors, Thales as our headline sponsor, BT who have been working

The weather on day one was warm, although at

with the AGA to revolutionize the AGA ways of

times a little cloudy, but later in the day with the

working by creating a bespoke IT package that

wind picking up and the rain setting in it made life

equals that of many a private golf clubs, and

difficult for the last few flights on the course. It

Comms Spec who donate their radio systems for

certainly paid to have an early tee time. The main

use at our events. All are thanked for their

competition was played off the white/red tees,

continued support throughout the season.

which measured 6717/5749 yards; the par was 72/74 with a slope rating of 134/131.

We were delighted to return to this prestigious

venue, one of the best courses in UK, which has

Scoring in the first round was steady with only one

hosted the AGA Open Strokeplay Championship on

player breaking par and one level. The clubhouse

35 previous occasions. The course was in perfect

leader was the current Army Captain, Maj Jack Musgrove RA (+0.9) on 70, followed closely by another Army team regular, Gdsm Jordan Slater Coldm Gds (+3.5) on 72, and LCpl Alex Matthews RE (2.1) on 74 sat in third. There followed three players tied in fourth on 76, SSgt Adam Hayward RA (1.7), Maj Jon Howse RLC (+0.3) and Lt Neil Williams RA (+1.9).

With

the

changing

afternoon round was

weather

conditions

the

always going to be a

challenge but those starting early in the afternoon took the opportunity to consolidate their first round scores and were equally impressive during their second round.

Musgrove carded a 2 over 74, ending the day on 144, which on a course playing as it was would be hard to beat. The best second round score went to Cpl Glen Watt RAC, who carded a superb 72,

bringing him up the leaderboard into second place on a total of 151, some seven shots back.

Other notable second round scores were LCpl LCpl Ram Limbu AGC

8

Johnny Stephenson SCOTS who carded a 76, Howse, SSgt Gaz Gurung RE and WO2 Kerry

STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP Roberts RA 77, Lt Col Bob Pace R Sigs, Spr Graeme Torrie RE, Mr David Wilson, and Mr Patrick Griffiths 78 and finally Slater 79 which was good enough to move him into joint second place overall.

So, after two rounds the leaderboard saw Musgrove on 144 leading by seven from Watt and Slater on 151. He would take some stopping, but on this course there was still too much golf to be played to say for certain where the winner would come from.

As the course basked in glorious sunshine on day

two, any early morning dew very quickly burned off to leave the course dry, firm, and quickening. The greenkeeping staff were out early to cut and iron the greens once more adding to an already stiff test of golf.

Day two followed a similar pattern to day one. With everyone feeling the strain as the golf course tightened its hold on the field, only the best players managed to hold their own. Slater looked like the player most likely to make a formidable charge, but

was halted following a 9 and a 7 on the 17th and 18th holes and surely his race was run.

Cpl Carl Thompson Inf

As the third round ended it seemed only a collapse of ‘Van De Velde’ proportions would see Musgrove not see this through to the close. Noticeable scores from round three; Musgrove level par 72, Matthews 73, Howse 75 and these were followed closely by the so far unmentioned Cpl Steven Farnworth LANCS 76, and Lt Jordan Aird RLC and Cpl Ben

Churchill RE tied on 77.

Before we report on the final round, it would be remiss not to mention the Stableford event running concurrently for those who did not make the cut on day one. The field of 39 had some seriously good golfers, nine of whom were playing off a handicap of five or better.

Round one saw three under par scores; Lt Col Stuart Campbell AMS with 37pts, Sgt Chris Rosie RE

with 39 pts and the leader, Mr David Holyoak with 40 pts.

Although neither Rosie or Holyoak could emulate LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS)

their morning round scores, they still managed to make runner-up and third respectively with 73 pts

9

STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP Back to the main event then and with a stiffening breeze, round four saw a resurgent Churchill make a charge up the leader board after carding a one under 71. This may yet see him reach the elusive 0.4 he strives for to enable Open qualification this year.

The Championship leader with no immediate challengers was able to play steady all day and carded a final round 1 over, 73. No doubt making his walk up the 18th fairway that much easier. One flight back, Howse carded a 73, as did Slater, who steadied the ship but was undoubtedly left ruing those two last holes in round three. Gurung also posted a credible 2 over 74, with Matthews and Pace a 3 over 75.

At the end of the day there can only be one winner, this year other than the course, which it would SSgt Mel van Zyl AMS

appear beat most of the players, it was Maj Jack Musgrove RA who triumphed with his impressively

apiece. Despite a niggling back injury, which almost

consistent 70 + 74 + 72 + 73, totalling 289 (1 over

put Campbell out of the competition, he battled to

gross). Winning by 12 shots in the end, Musgrove

a very creditable 39 pts to take the spoils and make

proved himself to be a worthy Champion.

his total for the day 76 pts.

This

year

the

course

set

up

was

fair,

but

It wouldn’t be an AGA event if we didn’t have at

challenging, lush fairways and slick greens and with

least one hole in one. Sgt Prades Limbu REME kept

the minor alterations that had been made during

the tradition alive this time with a superb 7 iron into

lockdown, particularly on the bunkers, made for a

the par 3, 13th, netting him his first ace and a handy

perfectly presented course worthy of such a

4 pts.

prestigious Army Championship.

10

STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP Our sincere thanks go to the Chairman, Jeremy Cook, the Committee, Manager Iain Burns and staff and members of Little Aston Golf Club for allowing the AGA to hold this Championship there. And for presenting the course in such excellent condition.

For the future, LAGC has kindly agreed to host the 2025 Championship (date to follow). Special thanks must go to the AGA officials for running the event in their usual professional and tireless manner both at the event and back in the office. Finally, the AGA is eternally grateful to Thales as the AGA headline sponsor for 2022.

The 2023 AGA Open Championships will take place at Belton Park Golf Club over the period Mon 22 – Wed 24 May 2023. AGA members should note that this is a mixed competition open to ALL members of the AGA with the field limited to approximately 66 players; all interested in playing whatever handicap should enter.

Maj Musgrove RA and Lt Col (Retd) Gamble

RESULTS Strokeplay Champion

Maj Jack Musgrove RA 289

Runner-Up

Maj Jon Howse RLC 301

Handicap Champion

Maj Jack Musgrove RA 293

Senior Winner

Lt Col Bob Pace R Sigs 313

Stableford Handicap Winner

Lt Col Stuart Campbell AMS 79 pts

Left to right Lt Col Stuart Campbell AMS, Lt Col Bob Pace R Sigs, Maj Jack Musgrove RA, Maj Jonathan Howse RLC

11

HIGH HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP

HIGH HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP A

s the most junior of the AGA competitions, the

level competitive golf. Playing two rounds in one

High Handicap Championship was brought

day was a first for many in the field and mental

under the banner of the AGA for the first time this

fatigue affected some. Whilst the course was a little

year. Previously the event was co-ordinated by Lt

forgiving in places, the rough was high and the

Col Richard Sanders, a former Regional Secretary.

greens slick, having been cut and rolled prior to

His

play. It achieved all we set out for – a fair but stern

promotion

and

assignment

to

Scotland

rendered it impractical for him to continue to run

test.

the event; therefore, the AGA would like to formally thank Col Richard for setting up and driving the

The tee boxes were set up as they would be for all

event to this point since its inception in 2014.

AGA Championship events with sponsor and event banners flying. The players were formally briefed

This year’s competition was held at Test Valley Golf

and then introduced on the tee. For some this

Club (TVGC), a venue used periodically by the South

added an extra layer of stress to the first shot of the

East region, and so was familiar to a few of the

day but, again, it added to the experience.

competitors. Based on chalk, the course drains well

and with little water on the course it served as an

Having

ideal venue to hold this competition, which serves

umbrella of the AGA, the longer-term plan is to

to provide the players with an experience of higher

drive attendance to the heights of all other

WO2 Ian Lester RAPTC

WO1 Vicky van Zyl AMS

12

brought

the

competition

under

the

HIGH HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP players were all tied on 35 pts so it was tight at the top of the leaderboard. All to play for then in round 2; who could hold their concentration and nerve in the afternoon rounds?

With temperatures warming and the sun peering through the gloom of the clouds, some great drives were to be hit, none more so than the shot of the day when Maj Alistair Hughes RLC drove the green on the par 4 dogleg first and WO1 Vicky Van Zyl AMS almost finishing the 18th from 100 yds with the ball striking the flag stick to drop close to the hole.

The standard of play across the board, belied many a handicap; there was every chance that several of the players were on a downward trajectory in terms of their handicap and as such may not qualify for next

year’s competition. There is always

the

Stableford event in August at Whittington Heath – so as one door closes, another opens.

Round 2 was closed with Mabo scoring a very respectable 41 pts, WO2 Gregory Tucker RLC and

LCpl Karl Straw RLC

Sgt Scott Young Inf both finished on 38 pts, Hughes on 37 pts, followed closely by Spr Lloyd Jenkins RE,

competitions: a full field of 66. This year we

Sgt Joe Jacobs Inf, Sgt Alan Smith Inf and

achieved almost 50% of our aiming mark: a field of one lady and 28 men played 36 holes off the yellow and red tees. Flights were sent out in threes at 8minute intervals with one higher, one middle and one lower handicap player in each flight. This ensured the speed of play remained on track, and the slightly better and more knowledgeable and experienced players were able to assist the lesser so

players. This clearly worked well as there were no hold ups on the course, all flights completed their rounds in around 4 hours and 15 mins which ensured all players had time for a good lunch.

As the morning wore on, the wind subsided a little and the temperature rose, as did the standard of golf. There was plenty of good ball striking even if the speed of the greens was to cause more than a little angst to some. That said, there were some good scores posted at the halfway point. The

clubhouse leader was Sgt David Whitwham RLC (26) on 40 pts; in joint second were Cpl Chris Hammond AAC (26) and LCpl Lee Williamson RLC (21) on 39 pts, closely followed by Cpl Roshan Mabo Inf (18) in third on 38 pts, and WO2 Ian Lester RAPTC (19) in fourth on 37 pts. The next three

WO2 Gregory Tucker

13

HIGH HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP Whitwham all on 36 pts, and Williamson, who

the course in such excellent condition. For the

scored his first ever birdies, one in each round,

future, TVGC has kindly agreed to host this event

finished on 35 pts.

for the next 5 years (dates to follow). Special thanks must go to the AGA officials Diane Walters and

Three of the morning’s top five made it into the

Jana Daniell for administering and running the

prizes at the close of play but of course there can

event in their usual professional and tireless

only be one winner. Mabo put together 2 under

manner. Finally, the AGA is eternally grateful to

handicap rounds of 38 & 41 pts and assuming his

Thales as the AGA headline sponsor for 2022.

golf will only get better, he will be unable to defend his title next year.

The 2023 Open High Handicap Championship will take place back at Test Valley Golf Club on Wed 17

Our sincere thanks go to Alastair Briggs, the Club

May 23. AGA members should note that this is a

General Manager, Maria McKenzie, the Events

mixed competition open to ALL members of the

Organiser, and staff and members of Test Valley

AGA with the field limited to approximately 66

Golf Club for allowing the AGA to hold this

players; all interested in playing whatever handicap

Championship on their course and for presenting

should enter.

SSgt David Whitwham, Cpl Roshan Mabo, LCpl Lee Williamson

RESULTS High Handicap Champion

Cpl Roshan Mabo Inf 79 pts

Runner-Up

SSgt David Whitwham RLC 76 pts

Third Place

LCpl Lee Williamson RLC 74 pts

Fourth Place

WO2 Gregory Tucker RLC 72 pts OCB

Fifth Place

Maj Ali Hughes RLC 72 pts

14

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP

T

he Inter Unit Championship returned to AGA’s

(Balfour Trophy), the next four teams qualified for

spiritual home for the first time in eight years

the plate competition (India Cup) and the final four

and the competition was played in full for the first

teams competed for the reserve trophy.

time since 2018. The 2019 Championship was rained off and the following two events cancelled owing to

The weather on day one was forecast to be overcast

the Covid pandemic, so it was a great relief that the

with a chance of rain; however, to the delight of all

weather played its part in making the 2022 event

players and officials the result was the complete

the success that it turned out to be.

opposite. The sun shone through by midday to dry off the overnight rain, firm up the course and speed

The Inter Unit event dates back to 1904 and this

up the greens. Our thanks must go to the Army

year it was attended by 36 players, forming 12

Golf Club as the course was presented in excellent

teams; unfortunately, slightly down on recent years,

condition with greens that were quick, but true.

although this may result from the missed years and the many commitments the Army is currently

With a wide-ranging standard of player and

involved in. We would like to thank all the units

handicaps, and the golf course providing its usual

who participated and, in some cases, travelled great

stern test, scoring well was always going to be a

distances to enter this year. Particularly QDG from

challenge. This proved to be the case with many

Dereham and 6 Regt RLC from Thirsk.

players carding less than average points. That said, the damp early morning conditions provided an

The format of this year’s event was amended

opportunity for some players to be more aggressive

slightly on account of the number of teams

and take on some of the more accessible pins.

entered. The opening day remained a 36 hole

Leading the way at lunchtime with an impressive 41

Stableford Qualifier off handicap adjusted to 95%.

pts was Cpl Darren Smee 3 Regt RLC, followed

Teams comprised 3 players (plus one reserve). The

closely by Sgt Suresh Ale Magar Gurkha ARRC Sp

team Stableford scores from day one resulted in

Bn and WO2 Nabin Subba 9 Regt RLC both on 40

teams being seeded 1 to 12 with all teams switching

pts; two pts back on 38 pts was Cpl Dhanraj Limbu

to the Matchplay format on day two. The top four

9 Regt RLC and then Sgt Tolok Gurung 11 (RSS) Sig

teams competed for the main championship

Regt on 37 pts, and finally the last player to score to handicap was WO2 Thamesh Rai RMAS on 36pts.

Following a fast turnaround and with the breeze stiffening, the second 18 holes would be a further test of everyone’s fortitude. This proved to be the case as the morning round had seen 20 players break 30 pts, whereas only 13 managed the same in the afternoon. The notable scores were: Smee backing up his first round 41 pts with an even more

impressive 43 pts. Given this was a two-round qualifier, his 12 handicap was likely to be cut by the time he hit the tee on day two. On 38 pts were T Rai and SSgt Bipendra Rai Lingkha 9 Regt RLC, Cpl Darren Smee 3 Regt RLC

followed by SSgt Rohit Gurung RMAS and WO1 Ray Conway 3 Regt RLC on 37 pts.

15

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP The overall individual standings from day one were:

little by way of a breeze, all looked good for the second day of play.

D Smee 84 pts – 3 Regt RLC S Ale Magar 75 pts – Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn

In the first reserve semi-final 11 (RSS) Sig Regt

T Rai 74 pts – RMAS

stormed to an early lead in their match against the

N Subba 74 pts – 9 Regt RLC

QDG, with T Gurung convincingly completing a 7&6

T Gurung 72 pts – 11 (RSS) Sig Regt

win over his opponent. The third match then gave a point to the QDG after Tpr Joe Shaw beat Cpl Shane

Team scores from the qualifying competition:

Addison 4&3. So one all and with the second match still on the course and very close, it was nail biting

RMAS

213

for both teams. Eventually though 11 Sig Regt took

3 Regt RLC

210

the deciding point when WO2 Bishnu Gurung beat

Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn

201

LCpl Nathan Sell.

9 Regt RLC

200

Inf Battle School

174

The second reserve semi-final saw Cpl James Boyd

Sp Branch RC

171

from 6 Regt RLC win 7&6 against his opponent

170 Infr Sp Engr Gp

169

from 32 Regt RA, even though he was giving away

3 PWRR

164

15 shots. This was despite sending his first tee shot

6 Regt RLC

159

into the rough on the first which, as it turns out,

11 (RSS) Sig Regt

157

was to be the only fairway he missed on his way to

QDG

155

victory. The second match saw two 24 handicap

32 Regt RA

114

players battle it out with Sgt Dale Birch from 32 Regt RA winning through 3&2 to even things up.

The draw for day two semi-finals in the three

With the final pairing halving their match the result

competitions saw:

ended 1½-1½ with the spoils going to 6 Regt RLC OCB.

Main Championship: RMAS vs 9 Regt RLC 3 Regt RLC vs Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn Plate Competition: Inf Battle School vs 3 PWRR Sp Branch RC vs 170 Infr Sp Engr Gp

Reserve Competition: 11 (RSS) Sig Regt vs QDG 6 Regt RLC vs 32 Regt RA With the teams drawn and in a bid to ensure everyone could get away at a reasonable time, an early start beckoned for day two. The course was a hive of activity as we arrived at the start of the day with greenkeepers cutting and rolling the greens, preparing the bunkers, and blowing overnight debris from the course following the windy close

the previous day.

Day two would see us revert to a two tee start with the teams playing head-to-head Matchplay going out in twos on a 0715 first tee. With the course bathed in warm, early morning sunshine and with

16

Cpl Rishikesh Sen Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP Finally, on to the Championship semi-finals: first up 3 Regt RLC against Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn, which on paper looked to be a close affair as all players had similar handicaps. However on the day the Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn appeared to hit a purple patch midround with CSgt Bikash Gurung coming through with a 4&2 win in the first match. But then Smee, the day one top scorer, levelled the match with a solid 3&2 win, before Ale Magar completed the win for the Gurkhas, winning with a conclusive 6&5.

The second championship semi-final saw RMAS

take on 9 Regt RLC (the third RLC unit in the competition). Again, all handicaps were even in each match, but it was RMAS who played better, winning 3-0 with 4&3, 6&4 and 5&4 wins.

Sgt Tolok Gurung 11 (RSS) Sig Regt

With the weather on the turn and now threatening rain and the wind picking up slightly, the three

The first plate semi-final headed off from the 10th

finals all started off the first tee.

tee and saw Sp Branch RC against 170 Engr Gp. With all players evenly matched in regard to

First up in the reserve final was 11 (RSS) Sp Bn vs 6

handicap, we anticipated a tight match. But this

Regt RLC, with T Gurung and Boyd out first. This

was not to be as Sp Branch RC stormed to a 2-0

was a nip and tuck match, but with Gurung playing

lead with opening wins of 5&3 from WO1 Chris

his best ever round of 1 over gross, he finished with

Topping and WO1 Kirk Ross, although both had to

a 3&2 victory. The second match saw a relative

come from behind to achieve their wins. Sadly, Maj

newcomer, SSgt David Whitwham, against WO2

Justin Revell narrowly lost on the 18th.

Bishnu Gurung. This match finished with Gurung coming though with a 6&5 win. The final match

In the second plate semi-final, Inf Battle School had

finished with 6 Regt RLC clawing one match back

a close contest with 3 PWRR before winning

with a 3&2 win for LCpl Liam Whitbread, but lost 2-1

through 2-1, although all three matches were close

on the day, leaving 11 (RSS) Sig Regt to collect the

run ties.

Reserve Trophy.

RESERVE WINNERS 11 (RSS) Sig Regt WO2 B Gurung Sgt T Gurung Cpl S Addison

17

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP

PLATE WINNERS HQ RC Sp Branch WO1 C Topping WO1 K Ross Maj J Revell

The plate final between Sp Branch RC and the Inf

As always, we convey our most sincere thanks to

Battle School looked to be another tight affair

our sponsors, without whom we would be unable

judging by the handicaps, but then as Topping

to run these events; so, to Thales, our headline

posted a resounding 6&5 win in the first match,

sponsor, to Comms Spec for providing our comms

that was followed by a 4&3 win for the Infantry in

equipment, and to BT for providing our IT support,

the third match to level the overall match at 1-1. The

thank you!

middle pair played a match that was eventually RESULTS

won on the last hole by Ross to give the Sp Branch RC a 2-1 victory to win the India Cup.

Winners

Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn CSgt Bikash Gurung Sgt Suresh Ale Magar Cpl Rishikesh Sen

Runners-Up

RMAS WO2 Thamesh Rai SSgt Rohit Gurung SSgt Nilkumar Thapa

Plate Winners

Sp Branch HQ RC Maj Justin Revell WO1 Chris Topping WO1 Kirk Ross

Plate Runners Up

Inf Battle School Capt Madan Kumar Jimi CSgt Pralon Kulung-Rai Cpl Gopal Rai

Reserve Winners

11 (RSS) Sig Regt WO2 Bishnu Gurung Sgt Tolok Gurung Cpl Shane Addison

Reserve Runners-Up

6 Regt RLC SSgt David Whitwham Cpl James Boyd LCpl Liam Whitbread

In the main Championship competition Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn took on RMAS. On paper there was little to choose between the two teams so it was down to who could produce the best golf on the

day. In the first match, SSgt Nilkumar Thapa on his home course could not hold off the charge from B Gurung losing 3&2. The second match ended with a half between Cpl Rishikesh Sen and T Rai leaving the score 1½-½, meaning RMAS needed to win the last match to take it to a play off. Unfortunately, this was not to be as the consistent Ale Magar produced another fine performance to close the match with a 5&4 win giving the Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn the Balfour Trophy.

Huge congratulations go to all the players who fought hard over the two days for their units. The AGA will endeavour to grow this event to capacity over the next couple of years and welcomes entries from all units able to field a team of 3; male, female or mixed.

18

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP

CHAMPIONS Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn CSgt Bikash Gurung Sgt Suresh Ale Magar Cpl Rishikesh Sen

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19

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS T

he Army Golf Championships is the blue riband

With one match still out on the course the AGA

event in the Army Golf calendar and the 2022

needed a win to halve the overall match. Close as it

event, which has a permanent base at Saunton Golf

was, the AGA could not get the needed win and lost

Club, took place from 3 to 8 Jul. The Championships

on the last hole, thus Saunton were the victors. As

comprise the individual Matchplay event, both Male

much as the AGA Secretary and Army Captain took

and Female and the Inter Corps tournament. The

the flack for missing ‘that’ putt and ‘that’ chip on

event was generously sponsored by the Army Sport

the 18th respectively, it was only right that Saunton

Control Board, Charitable Fund and the AGA is

took the spoils; after all it was their day. With little

indebted to them for their invaluable support, and

time to spare following completion of the last

to Thales as headline sponsor of the AGA, once

match, we dined as a collective hosted by the Golf

again. We were especially pleased that BT, who

Club, with a 4-course meal, speeches, port and a

have been working behind the scenes on our

toast to the Queen.

competition IT systems, and Christopher Ward, watch manufacturer, were able to visit for a few

Overall, the day was a huge success and a fitting

days, with the latter very kindly donating a watch to

celebration to mark such a landmark event and

each of our winners.

occasion in the club’s history.

Having missed a full season in 2020 owing to the

It

Covid pandemic we were unable to combine

Championships in its original format with all the

Saunton’s 125th anniversary with our own 100th

trimmings, and we are delighted to announce that

Matchplay anniversary, which was rather a shame.

Saunton has agreed to host the Championships for

To make up for the disappointment we agreed to

another 5 years, for which we are eternally grateful.

celebrate the occasion by playing a 32-a-side match (teams were selected from AGA members past and present)

on

the

Saturday

prior

to

the

commencement of the Championships.

The first few flights had to endure a period of fine ‘misty’ rain before the wind blew in and cleared the way

for

a

glorious

afternoon

in

the

sun.

Competition was hot with most matches coming in close. The AGA President and Chair started strong, bringing in the first points of the day, and having

missed a putt for the win on the last, the Secretary was happy not to have lost and finished with a half.

As the scores started to flow in, Saunton started to stride ahead to a four point lead, but this was to be short lived and the AGA pulled back three, leaving Saunton with a slender lead of one.

20

was

good

to

be

back

and

running

the

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

99TH MATCHPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP As appears to be the norm now, the event was full well before the closing date and travelling reserve spots were offered to 12 players, six of whom accepted and played in all available Stableford competitions.

An excellent field of 94 players arrived on Sun 3 Jul to commence battle. The main competition started the following day with 64 players, and to reduce the field to this number, there was a pre-qualifying

event for 60 of the 94 highest handicapped players.

The winners went into the main draw and the 30 losers went on to compete in their own reserve event, the Keith Seddon Trophy.

Col Jim Brown Int Corps

The cut for automatic qualification into the main

expect with the highest handicapped players

event was made at 2.8 whilst the highest handicap

taking on the lowest, there were some early

overall was 8.3. This is a testament to the high levels

finishes with a number of 7&6 results being

of golf being played in the Army. It is usual to have

submitted. On the flip side a couple of matches had

four seeds for this Championship which consists of

to go past 18; SSgt Roger Malcolm R Sigs beat CSgt

the winner, runner-up and two semi-finalists from

Santosh Gurung Inf and Capt Tom Clarke REME

last year. Owing to non-availability, only the runner-

beat Sgt Sanman Thapa Magar RE, both on the

up and one semi-finalist entered, thus reducing the

19th.

number of seeds to two.

Day one of the main event commenced with an The course was as ever, in excellent condition with

overcast sky and normal onshore breeze. First out

testing rough waiting for those who strayed off the

saw Lt Neil Williams RA up against the 61 seed Lt

beaten track. In true links fashion, straight driving

Scott Proctor Int Corps. This match was close run all

was a necessity as was good course management.

the way to the last, before being decided on the

With Army golf balls being in short supply because

19th hole by Williams. Lt Col Bob Pace R Sigs and

of import issues, keeping the ball in play was

Capt Sanjeev Rai R Sigs also needed a 19th hole

paramount so spotters were deployed to assist

playoff to secure passage to the next round. But it

players when wayward shots were hit.

took an additional 2 holes for WO2 Stu Hawkins RAPTC to finally beat Capt George Watson RLC on

Sunday dawned bright and sunny for the qualifying

the 21st.

round which commenced at 1100hrs. As you would Cpl Raju Tamang Inf with an 8&7 win and WO2 Kerry Roberts RA, SSgt Adam Hayward RA, Maj Danny Saunders AGC (RMP) and Cpl Steven Farnworth Inf with 7&6 wins eased into the next round comfortably.

The 30 players who failed to qualify for the main

Championship

took

part

in

the

Reserve

Championship event for the Keith Seddon Trophy.

The first part was a scratch Stableford competition on Mon 4 Jul on the West Course, to enable a fair SSgt Gajendra Gurung RE

draw and decide the seeding for the Matchplay event (top 16 players) to take place the following

21

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS day. It should be noted that the 6 travelling reserves played in this competition and although able to win prizes could not qualify for the Keith Seddon Trophy.

LCpl Cameron Weir RLC won through on 32pts, with Maj Ben Stephens Int Corps on 31pts then Maj Om Pun R Sigs on 30pts, followed by Cpl James Watson AGC (SPS) on 29pts. The rest of the field followed slightly further back from 26 through to 11, which was testament to the conditions and toughness of the course. Although the travelling

reserves were unable to qualify, it should be noted that several outperformed some of those that could.

The second round of the main Championship was played in ever improving weather conditions with brighter skies and match results going as expected.

Our habitual winner, Cpl Ben Churchill RE, had a slight scare against WO2 Jason Moore AGC (SPS), with Churchill 2 Down and 3 to play, and Moore needing a 2-foot putt to win 3&2. Unfortunately, he

missed the putt allowing Churchill back into the

TUESDAY STABLEFORD WINNER Capt Thomas Clarke REME

match. Churchill took full advantage and went on to win the next two holes before closing out the match

on

the

19th.

Not

to

be

outdone,

of

note

was

in

the

match

between

Torrie

Sgt Bruce-Smith AGC (SPS) took his match to the

and Churchill; Torrie beat Churchill 3&2, ending his

20th before finally claiming the win over LCpl Lewis

[Churchill] last visit to the Championships after

McColm Int Corps.

a long and successful golfing career in the Army; the first of his six Matchplay wins coming in 2008.

In the Plate competition, the Denton Trophy, held for

main

Tuesday also brought the first of two handicap

Championship, there were no clear favourites given

the

first-round

Stablefords (Mickey Bryant Memorial Salver) for

the high standard of golfers in the competition.

those who are knocked out of the Main and Plate

Sadly, Cpl James Boyd RLC had to withdraw leaving

Championships (Mon pm), Keith Seddon Trophy

LCpl Caspin Sandry Inf with a walkover into round

Qualifier (Mon am) and travelling reserves. Scores

two. Notable scores from round one were: 7&6 wins

on the whole were pretty average, but 4 players

for

RA,

shot 36pts or better: Thomas (36pts), WO2 Ian

LCpl Peter Forsyth R Sigs over LCoH Nick Jackson

Mahan Inf (37pts), Cpl Sean Byrne REME, and Clarke

RAC and WO1 David Grant AGC

(39pts). Capt Tom Clarke REME is the 2022 Mickey

Watson

G

over

losers

WO2

from

Neals

the

Mostert

(SPS) over

WO1 Steve Canning REME. Slightly tighter results

Bryant Memorial Trophy winner.

were 1Up wins for Sgt Jim Reeves R Sigs over Cpl Ben Dawson R Sigs, Sgt Tom Purce Inf over

Day two afternoon and we are now into the

Malcolm, and Lt Col Stuart Campbell AMS over

quarter-finals. In the main Championship, Maj Jack

Capt Tek Rai R Sigs.

Musgrove RA beat Pace 8&7, Gurung G beat Maj Jonny Howse RLC 2&1, Spr Graeme Torrie RE

Day two morning of the main event saw Williams

beat

out first again, this time against Pace, the latter just

Bruce-Smith beat Roberts 1Up. A superb set of

taking the spoils 1Up. All other ‘last 16’ matches

semi-final matches was on the cards and close

were close with no major surprises. Another result

results expected.

22

Maj

Sean

Stevenson

RLC

2Up

and

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS (36pts) and Thapa Magar (38pts). Sgt Sanman Thapa Magar RE is the 2022 Bartley/Taylor Trophy winner.

The result of the first semi-final in the Keith Seddon Trophy did not go to form when Bennett beat Weir 3&2, but the other the result was as you would expect with Pun beating Stephens 4&2.

The Plate Championship got underway with Brown taking Reeves all the way to 18, clinching the match 1Up. In the other match Gurung B took on Sherpa,

who incidentally was the highest handicapped player in the whole event and performed very well to get as far as he did. Sadly for him, this was a match too far and Gurung B won 6&5.

The Matchplay Champion could have come from any

of

the

four

semi-finalists

in

the

main

Championship. Torrie just eased past Bruce-Smith 2&1 but it was nip and tuck all the way until Torrie went 2Up. It was then very difficult for Bruce-Smith to make any inroads as Torrie seemed to play well

WEDNESDAY STABLEFORD WINNER Sgt Sanman Thapa Magar RE

within himself and not have to chase the game.

The Plate results were as follows: Reeves beat Proctor 7&6, Col Jim Brown Int Corps beat Campbell S AMS 4&3, Cpl Bisal Gurung R Sigs beat LCpl Jonny Stevenson Inf and SSgt Furtenji Sherpa RE beat Grant 4&3.

The last of the 3 quarter-finals, the Keith Seddon Trophy, produced the following results: SSgt Aidi

Bennett R Sigs beat Maj Ski Nowosielski R Sigs 3&2, Capt Kenny Wilson RLC beat Weir 7&5, Stephens beat LCpl Aiden Dewar REME on the 20th and Pun beat Sgt Milan Rai R Sigs 3&2.

Wednesday morning started bright and early with the semi-finals of the Keith Seddon Trophy teeing off at 0715hrs, followed by the Plate (Denton Salver) and then the Main Championship (Paget Trophy).

The second of the handicap Stablefords (Bartley/ Taylor Trophy) took place on the West Course.

The Stableford event as usual had a significant field of 85 which included any Corps team players who had not played in the individual events. Scoring was evidently difficult and only 2 players managed to card 36pts or better; Sgt Prem Tamang AGC (SPS)

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER Sgt Mathew Bruce-Smith AGC (SPS)

23

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS The other semi-final saw Musgrove up against last year’s losing finalist Gurung G. Both players had the opportunity to take a foothold in the match but on each occasion the other would raise his game.

Going on to the 17th, Gurung G was 2Up and the pressure was all on Musgrove. However, Musgrove won the hole and gave himself a chance going up the last. Both were on or around the green in two with Gurung G on for a solid par. Musgrove then sank a superb 30-foot putt for a birdie to take the match down the 19th. This would turn out to be a historic battle that needed a further 8 extra holes to

determine the winner, a record for the Army Championships. Both players had opportunities to take the match, both missed them, particularly Gurung G who had two opportunities to sink 3-foot putts for the win. The pressure was telling with a few wayward shots creeping in, but with Gurung G on the front edge and Musgrove over the back of the 26th hole, could this be it? Gurung G stiffed a long putt to 3-inches to finish with a par, with Musgrove leaving himself a 15-footer for birdie to avoid defeat. Unfortunately, as close as it might

have been, it just stayed out and Gurung G took the match to reach his second consecutive final.

PLATE WINNER Cpl Bisal Gurung R Sigs The final of the Keith Seddon Trophy pitted Bennett against Pun. Both players played some good golf, but Pun eventually ran out the winner 2Up. Maj Om Pun R Sigs is the 2022 Keith Seddon Trophy winner.

Reaching a final is never easy and you have to beat all opposition to win the prize. However, the route

there appeared to be relatively comfortable for both players in the Plate Championship. Brown versus Gurung B was no different and once Gurung got his nose ahead he held firm to win through 4&3. Cpl Bisal Gurung R Sigs is the 2022 Denton Salver winner.

The Paget Trophy final was set with last year’s losing finalist Gurung G (0.1) up against a young and talented Torrie (-2.8) in his first Army Matchplay final. The match was a close affair and after only a

20 minute turnaround for Gurung G he was straight out on the tee. He must be commended for maintaining such high levels of concentration RESERVE WINNER Maj Om Pun R Sigs

24

having played 26 holes of golf to reach the final. The match ebbed and flowed with Torrie taking an early lead only for Gurung G to fight back to level the

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS scores on the 17th. Moving on to 18, both were off

future looks bright for Army Golf and the Inter

the green in two, with Torrie finding the better lie

Service

which allowed him to take his putter and leave the

Spr Graeme Torrie RE is the 2022 Paget Trophy

ball about 4 feet from the hole. Gurung G on the

winner.

Championships

later

in

the

year.

other hand was not only short-sided by a bunker but he also had a tough lie. The only option was to

The

standard

of

play

and

overall

levels

of

play safe to the centre of the green and hope that

sportsmanship were once again of the highest

he could stiff a 40-foot putt. A valiant effort that

order with some excellent individual performances

narrowly missed leaving him with a bogie only for

throughout the week. Congratulations go not only

Torrie to sink his putt for par. Both players played

to the winners, but to all the players. Big thanks to

some outstanding golf and given their ages the

David Thomas for capturing the finals beautifully!

Gurung G vs Torrie final

Matchplay Champion 22 - Spr Graeme Torrie RE KEY RESULTS

Army Champion

Spr Graeme Torrie RE

Runner-Up

SSgt Gaz Gurung RE

Plate Winner

Cpl Bisal Gurung R Sigs

Reserve Winner

Maj Om Pun R Sigs

Tuesday Stableford Winner

Capt Thomas Clarke REME

Wednesday Stableford Winner

Sgt Sanman Thapa Magar RE

Most Improved Player

Sgt Mathew Bruce-Smith AGC (SPS)

25

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

12TH LADIES MATCHPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP The 12th Army Ladies Matchplay Championship

So, with only three rounds being played on the

took place on 5 and 6 Jul on the East Course in

morning day one, notable results saw, Musn Justine

some good weather conditions. The wind by the

Stringer CAMUS beat WO2 Claire Ham AGC (SPS)

afternoon rounds would keep all players’ minds

2&1, Maj Karen Fidell AMS beat Maj Lizzy Stileman

concentrated with the flags flapping hard in the

MBE RLC 3&2 and finally Maj Gina Smith REME win

wind. Despite the difficult conditions, we saw a field

4&3 over WO1 Vicky van Zyl AMS.

of 11 players take to the tee, with 5 byes. LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS) was poised to defend her title but

The quarter-final matches saw Sutton beat Stringer

with Cpl Kirsty Kennedy RE retuning after a couple

5&4, the latter playing in her first Army event, her

of years out all was set for an enthralling couple of

time will come in future years surely, after all the

days.

practice she has had in light blue (ex RAF)! Kennedy beat Fidell 7&5, which brought Fidell’s Army

There were two seeds based on lowest handicap;

Championship days as a player to a conclusion. We

Sutton (1) and Kennedy (2) (no pressure on being

look forward to seeing her in the future as an AGA

seeded so high on her return).

official. Smith and Lambert needed the 19th to separate them after a very close-run match.

With only 11 golfers playing in the first round there were an additional three players over the two

In the Plate competition for the Bowles Trophy,

seeded players to receive a bye, SSgt Mel van Zyl

Ham versus van Zyl V, Stileman received a bye

AMS, Maj Sue Lambert AGC (ETS) and SSgt Zoe

through to the final. With an early start, and faced

Burrell-Knipe

Burrell-Knipe

with an increase in the wind, Ham and van Zyl V

contracted Covid and had to withdraw and return

RLC.

Unfortunately,

took to the field. The match was a close-run affair

home before striking a ball. This meant that

with both competitors playing steady golf that

van Zyl M received a walkover to the semi-final

required a 19th hole to decide the winner. On this

without hitting a ball.

occasion it was van Zyl V who took the spoils to set

SAUNTON BOWL WINNER Musn Justine Stringer CAMUS

26

BOWLES TROPHY WINNER Maj Lizzy Stileman MBE RLC

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS second Matchplay victory with a winning score of 7&6. We should note that Smith played all rounds en route to the final and went to the 23rd hole in the semi-final leaving only a 20 minute turnaround before teeing off for the final. LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS) is the 2022 Meechie Trophy winner.

Congratulations go to all players for not only the standard of play but also the level of sportsmanship displayed throughout. Big thanks to David Thomas for taking some stunning photos of the final!

On a slightly different note, Thales, the AGA’s headline sponsor, generously provided a wedge in a free prize draw for the Matchplay Championships.

The first correctly completed draw sheet out of the hat was Capt George Watson RLC. Finally, we were pleased to announce that our relationship

with

renowned

watchmaker

Christopher Ward seems to be progressing well and to demonstrate their support to Army Golf they

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER Maj Gina Smith REME

kindly donated three watches for the winners of our

main Championships. A retrospective award was

up the final against Stileman. Despite a superb

made to Maj Jack Musgrove RA following his victory

showing in her first Army Championship, this was a

at the Strokeplay Championship. The Mens and

match too far for van Zyl V and she narrowly lost

Ladies Matchplay Champions also received a watch

2Up to Stileman. Maj Lizzy Stileman MBE RLC is

each, presented by Peter French.

the 2022 Bowles Trophy winner.

So

back

to

the

semi-finals

of

the

main

Championship. The draw was set for van Zyl M to play Sutton and Kennedy to play Smith.

As had been the case in all her matches, Sutton eased into the final with another comfortable 5&3 win. The second match was extremely close between two very evenly matched players that required a further 5 holes for it to be decided. Once again Smith, who likes to play EVERY hole at least once in EVERY round, ran out the eventual winner on the 23rd hole. So the final would see Sutton face Smith.

With a good breeze and in bright sunshine the final

was set to be an enthralling mixture of young talent in Sutton versus the experience of Smith. Sutton set off at a breathtaking pace, taking an early lead that she was never going to lose. Playing some excellent golf with levels of accuracy and consistency that just could not be matched, Sutton lodged her

SSgt Mel van Zyl AMS

27

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

Musn Justine Stringer and Cpl Kirsty Kennedy

Maj Lizzy Stileman MBE RLC teeing off

WO1 Vicky van Zyl AMS

LADIES MATCHPLAY CHAMPION LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS)

WO2 Claire Ham AGC (SPS)

KEY RESULTS Army Ladies Champion

LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS)

Runner-Up

Maj Gina Smith REME

Bowles Trophy Winner

Maj Lizzy Stileman MBE RLC

Saunton Bowl Winner

Musn Justine Stringer CAMUS

Most Improved Ladies Player

Maj Gina Smith REME

28

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

48TH INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIP The draw for the Inter Corps Championship,

and SSgt Mel van Zyl representing AMS. In round

generously sponsored by The Army Sport Control

one there were convincing wins for RA A over R

Board, was made on Wed 6 Jul, after the Matchplay

Sigs B 4½ - ½, RE A over AMS 5 - 0, RLC A over AAC

finals had concluded. 19 teams entered into the

5 - 0 and REME B over RLC B 4 - 1. The other

new format for the third year, the field comprised 12

matches were a little closer with AGC A beating

‘A’ teams (CAMUS did not enter a team) and 7 ‘B’

REME A 3½ - 1½, RAC beating RAPTC 3 - 2, Inf A

teams; more on the 2022 ballot later in the report.

beating Int Corps 3 - 2 and R Sigs A beating Inf B 3 -

Inf A (1) and AGC A (2) teams, as winners and

2. There were some strong teams in the field this

runners-up

Championship

year so the 2021 finalists would need to be on their

respectively, were the 1 and 2 seeds with the

game throughout if they were to achieve the same

remainder being drawn out of the hat. The draw

levels of success.

from

the

2021

was evenly matched with RA A, RE A and Inf A in the top half and AGC A, RLC A and R Sigs A in the

In the second round the two seeded teams had

bottom half. Yet again no two Corps teams were

contrasting results with last years winners, Inf A,

drawn together. This

year RE A looked the

losing out narrowly to a strong RE A, who on paper

strongest on paper. The three teams balloted out to

were the team to beat. AGC A fared better,

the subsidiary competition were, RE B, AGC B and

managing a 3 - 2 win against RLC A team. The other

RA B. This year the AGA officials allowed for the R

matches saw RA A beat RAC 3½ -1½ and R Sigs A

Sigs to enter a third team (R Sigs C) into the

beat REME B convincingly 5 - 0. R Sigs A were

subsidiary competition.

considered to be going about their business quietly and were definitely a team to watch during day

As usual, the Championship moved completely to

two.

the West Course, a tricky course and one to be navigated round carefully. It was going to be a stern

The semi-final line-up would see RA A versus RE A

test. There were only two female golfers, one being

and last year’s losing finalists AGC A versus R Sigs A.

the defending Champion, LCpl Niki Sutton AGC A

Four strong teams, where matches could go either

LCpl Weir accepting REME Shield on behalf of RLC A

WO1 Parkinson accepting Singapore Trophy on behalf of REME A

29

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS way. All players performed well but the eventual

Back to the Plate Championship and in the first

finalists were RA A beating RE A 3 - 2 and R Sigs A

semi-final, R Sigs B beat Int Corps 3 - 2 and in the

beating AGC A 3½ - 1½.

other REME A convincingly beat the Inf B 4½ - ½.

This set up a closely matched final, on paper! REME

In the Plate (Singapore Trophy) for the first-round

A played better on the day and came out on top

losers, R Sigs B beat RAPTC 4½ - ½, the AMS lost

with a 3 - 2 win. REME A are the 2022 Singapore

out to the Int Corps also 4½ - ½, REME A beat AAC

Trophy winners.

4 - 1, and finally Inf B beat RLC B 3½ - 1½.

The subsidiary competition saw RE B run out the This left the Plate semi-finalists as R Sigs B versus

winners after a 3½ - 1½ win over AGC B and a 3 - 2

Int Corps and REME A versus Inf B.

win over R Sigs C. RE B are the 2022 Subsidiary Competition winners.

In the REME Shield for day one losers, each team is required to play 18 holes scratch Stableford, with all

In the main final it was always going to be a tough

5 scores counting. On face value last year’s Inter

ask for R Sigs A as the RA A team held three Army

Corps winners, Inf A, who had lost four of the

team players including the runaway winner of the

winning team players over the past 12 months, still

2022 Strokeplay Championship, Maj Jack Musgrove

appeared to be the strongest team on paper. On a

RA. As anticipated, RA A got off to a flying start,

tight course with little breeze, it all seemed to play

taking the first three matches and the Royal Irish

into the hands of the top players. The RLC A team

Rangers Bowl. RA A are the 2022 Royal Irish

scored 147pts to win the REME Shield by 14pts from

Rangers Bowl winners.

the Inf A team on 133pts. Third place went to the AMS with 103pts. The top individual scores for the

The AGA was once again hugely indebted to the

round went to Maj Sean Stevenson RLC with 32pts

Saunton Golf Club Committee and members for

followed by LCpl Cameron Weir RLC and Lt Jordan

allowing us take over their club for the week. The

Aird RLC on 30pts - all good scores considering they

hospitality and friendship shown to all concerned

were playing off scratch. RLC A are the 2022 REME

within the AGA, players and officials, throughout

Shield winners.

the week, was superb. We are so lucky to have such

PLATE WINNERS REME A LCpl Dewar, Capt Clarke, Cfn Sanghera, WO1 Parkinson, Cpl Moore, WO2 Smith, WO1 Bell

30

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS a great relationship with one of the top golf clubs

ASCB and BT for their invaluable financial and

in the country, not something we take lightly.

technical support. Special thanks go to Mr Jon Southerland,

the

General

Manager,

and

his

Spr Graeme Torrie RE and LCpl Niki Sutton AGC

assistant, Liz Cann, at Saunton for their great

(SPS)

individual

support during the week. Thanks also go to the

Championships, and RA A their victory in the Inter

Tournament Committee, who ran a seamless

Corps. Huge thanks go to our sponsors Thales, the

event.

deservedly

won

their

INTER CORPS CHAMPIONS RA A L to R: Maj Musgrove, SSgt Hayward, WO2 Ramage, Sgt Perrins, WO2 Roberts

KEY RESULTS Inter Corps Champions

RA A

Runners-Up

R Sigs A

Plate Winners

REME A

Runners-Up

R Sigs B

Stableford Winners

RLC A

Subsidiary Competition Winners

RE B

31

STABLEFORD CHAMPIONSHIP

STABLEFORD CHAMPIONSHIP

T

he 2022 Stableford Championship returned to

accommodation commandeered for the Games

its spiritual home of Whittington Heath Golf

and the AGA only able to secure 16 beds for officers

Club after an absence of two years owing to the

and

Covid pandemic. Throughout that time everything

accommodation! Those players booked into the

has had a monumental makeover: from the brand

competition who had expressed their requirement

new modern clubhouse and halfway house, to the

for accommodation

course being reconfigured to include five brand

themselves

new holes. For all intents and purposes, it was a

Consequently we ended up with a field of 42

new course for most of the field.

starters.

Having navigated the problems of the last two

Day one started in overcast but humid conditions

years, we hoped this year would see as smooth a

with a stiff breeze whistling across the five new

competition

past,

holes (1-5), only abating once the play entered the

unfortunately this was not to be the case. With a

old areas of the course where the established tree

full field of players (63) one week prior to the

lines offered some degree of protection. With the

competition we had not accounted for the MOD

country having just experienced an unprecedented

mobilising 250 Service Personnel to assist with the

heatwave the course was starting to suffer the

management of the Commonwealth Games which

effects with yellowing and hard baked fairways,

were being held at various locations across the

although the tee boxes and greens remained

Midlands.

watered and lush. All in all, the course was set up to

as

The

we

have

result

had

saw

in

all

the

military

senior

ranks

or

only:

no

junior

rank

had to therefore find it

withdraw

from

the

event.

provide a good test of golf, taxing enough for the lower handicap players yet forgiving enough for the high handicap players.

The field was slightly reduced on recent years although there were still two ladies amongst the

field of 42, with last year’s reigning champion, LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS), back to defend her title.

As the morning progressed, the clouds blew through, and the sun shone brightly raising the temperature and making for a very warm day. The course

offered

opportunities

for

the

more

adventurous where the reward of a birdie or two was well worth the shot; either way staying on the fairways was always going to be the way to shoot a low score.

Round one saw some excellent scores posted with 16 players scoring 36 pts or more. Capt Mukunda Rajali Inf playing off 25 was the club house leader Sgt Ashley James Inf

32

with a score of 43 pts, followed by the reigning champion Sutton in joint second on 41 pts along

STABLEFORD CHAMPIONSHIP James Inf hit 40 pts followed by three on 38 pts – WO1 John Butler RLC, Cpl Saugat Gurung RLC and SSgt Adrian Bennett R Sigs. One back on 37 pts was the local lad from Whittington Heath, Mr Bill Vale, and O’Driscoll. Then on 36 pts were another three: Bosley, Bott, and Sutton.

After two rounds the leaderboard stood thus: Rajali

25

84 pts

Sutton

8

77 pts

Tucker

17

75 pts

James

18

74 pts

O’Driscoll

14

74 pts

Bosley

15

74 pts

Sherpa

20

74 pts

Vale

17

73 pts

Ferrier

24

73 pts

Shaw

9

72 pts

Day two started as day one finished, with the WO2 Gregory Tucker RLC

weather conditions remaining hot and with a steady breeze; although the temperature had

with WO2 Gregory Tucker RLC and Pte Tim Shaw

reduced slightly it was still going to create the odd

RLC. Then followed three more on 39 pts, Sgt

problem

Pasang Sherpa RLC, Sgt Brett Evans AMS and Lt Col

morning work by the greenkeepers saw a change

(Retd) Jim Ferrier. Mr Ian Bosley and Maj Stephen

of pin positions and a trimming of the greens. So,

Johnson AMS were one back on 38 pts. Other

with hardpacked fairways meaning the straight

scores: 37 pts – SSgt Alan Finn R Sigs, Padre (Maj)

fairway bound shot would continue to roll for

Patrick O’Driscoll Inf and Lt Col Adrian Grinonneau

unprecedented

Inf, and 36 pts – Lt Col (Retd) Warren Ginn, Mr Bill

greens all was in place for another high scoring day

Vale, WO2 Clinton Hamblett RE and Maj Sean

– time would tell.

if

concentration

distances

levels

and

lapsed.

with

Early

receptive

Stevenson RLC. As things stood, there were realistically 6 or 7

The second round of day one continued in glorious

players in with a chance, but of course this would

sunshine and as the course continued to dry out,

need both the leader to falter a little, which could

drives

happen off a 25 handicap, and the chasing pack to

were

running

longer

but

the

greens

remained receptive, true and slightly slower than

score well.

some we have played on this year (with the long dry

spell

the

greens

may

have

been

kept

deliberately longer to protect them from burning out). Having already played 18 holes, the players were more familiar with the course and better placed to know when and where to take a risk for the resulting reward. As a result, the scoring

remained high with a further ten players scoring above 36 pts.

With a second high score of the day, Rajali continued in fine form, scoring another round with 41 pts (a total of 84 pts after two rounds). Sgt Ashley

Lt Col (Retd) Jim Ferrier

33

STABLEFORD CHAMPIONSHIP

WO1 Vicky Van Zyl AMS

Lt Col Adrian Grinonneau Inf

Based on the scoring of round three the players

The heat and difficult conditions were starting to

were taking advantage of the dry conditions as the

take their toll on players in the fourth and final

scoring remained high with 33 players posting 30

round, but those in the last three flights off the 1st

pts or more, Finn hitting 44 pts, followed by Cpl

knew that second place was up for grabs.

Alistair Hennessey RE on 40 pts, which was particularly good playing off 5. One back were

The final round proved equally forgiving as another

James and the overnight leader Rajali on 39 pts.

29 players posted 30 pts or better, with 14 on 36 pts

Then came four players on 38 pts – Hamblett,

or more. The clubhouse leader Rajali was again in a

Bosley, O’Driscoll, and Tucker. So there were several

rich vein of form, completing his final round with a

players posting consistently good scores over the two days. Sutton carded another sub handicap score of 37 pts as did Sgt Jason Chester Inf, and one of our long-standing attendees and a former AGA Chair, Lt Col (Retd) Roger Crook.

The leaderboard was slowly taking shape but going into the final round it was only the 2nd to 7th places that were going to be contested: Rajali

123 pts

Sutton

114 pts

James

113 pts

Tucker

113 pts

Finn

112 pts

Bosley

112 pts

O’Driscoll

112 pts

34

LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS)

STABLEFORD CHAMPIONSHIP score or 46 pts (though eyebrows were raised, he

The prizes were shared out evenly with Capt

did play well). 5 pts back was Hamblett, then one

Mukunda Rajali Inf winning the Handicap Cup and

back on 40 pts were Sherpa and WO1 Vicky van Zyl

also the Taylor/Bartley Trophy, for the best round of

AMS. Then came four players on 39 pts - Finn, WO1

the competition with 46pts. The Scratch Winner,

Charlie Brown AGC (SPS), Bott, and Sgt Brett Evans

taking the Courage Cup, was Maj Sean Stevenson

AMS. WO2 Steven Ball AGC (SPS) posted 38 pts, and

RLC with 126pts. The Harrison’s Shield for the Senior

Chester, Bennett and Shaw were on 37 pts. Sutton

winner (over 45) went to SSgt Alan Finn R Sigs with

could only manage 34 pts which on any other day

151pts.

may have been enough to retain her title.

Our thanks go to the President and Captain of So, after two long days in the sun and wind, Rajali

Whittington Heath GC, Mr Kelvin Edwards and Mr

could not be caught, winning with an incredible

Paul Keen. To Colin White, the General Manager,

169pts, 18pts more than second placed Finn on

and his team for helping to arrange the event and

151pts. Interestingly, in 2021 Sutton won with a score

for helping our team with the complicated high-

of 151pts. Rajali played well, but I suspect his

tech IT setup in the club! To Nicky Manley and the

handicap will be reduced considerably once CDH

restaurant staff for their brilliant hospitality. To Mike

runs its updates. [edit – Rajali’s handicap at the time

Raj, the Club Professional, and finally to Adam

of printing has been reduced to 17.3].

Jones, the Course Manager, and his team of greenkeeping staff for presenting an excellent,

Scoring in general in the top ten places was around

challenging course. The AGA is indebted to all at

10pts better from last year, with the competition

Whittington

winner remarking that he found this course

association with both the military and the AGA. We

somewhat easier to play than his home course of

will return in 2023 and have agreed to continue

Catterick Garrison.

there until at least 2030.

Heath

for

their

long-standing

L to R: Harrison's Shield Winner - SSgt Alan Finn R Sigs Taylor/Bartley Trophy & Handicap Cup Winner - Capt Mukunda Rajali Inf Courage Cup Winner - Maj Sean Stevenson RLC

35

INTER REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

INTER REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP W

orksop Golf Club once again hosted the

An early start accompanied by dark clouds gave the

Inter Regional Championship and after one

feeling that you could get at the course and score

of the hottest summers on record, the course had

well. At least that was the feeling in the practise

suffered, like most golf courses up and down the

area; of course, things always change after you hit

country. The fairways were burnt, but it must be

your first drive off the first tee. That said, the rain

said the greens were in excellent condition with pin

held off, at least until later in the afternoon, and the

positions as tough as we have seen all season. A

sun

made

an

appearance

little rain in the preceding few days helped the

progressed.

All

was

fairways which now had some give which meant

competition. With play off the yellow tees, it was

the balls were not able to run for the distances they

now left to the teams and players to produce the

once had. This coupled with the receptive greens

scores.

set

as

for

the a

morning

good

day’s

made for a much fairer test than it might have been.

It was clear that those with the ability to hit consistently straight shots would score well and

With a field of 9 teams (Cyprus unable to travel due

this was the case in the morning Greensomes,

to

travel

restrictions)

we

54

players

where some extremely good scores were posted.

representing

their

teams

this

year’s

There were six pairs who posted 40 pts or more and

reigning

a further six hitting the high thirties. Most notably it

Champions), Scotland, Wales, and both Northern,

was the reigning champions from Northern Ireland

Midlands, and Southern regions.

who got off to the best of starts with Sgt J Simmons

Championship:

A

Northern

had in

Ireland

(the

and Capt D Muir posting a winner score of 46 pts, The competition format remained the same in

this was followed by Eastern region’s WO1 J Butler

time - honoured tradition with Greensome Pairs

and Mr R Cooper on 43 pts. Other notable scores

Stableford in the morning and Singles Stableford in

were North West’s Capt S Tickle and Mr M Wiggins

the

on 42 pts, WO2 G Riding and Mr R Delmare, and

afternoon,

all

with

relevant

allowances.

handicap

Scotland’s SSgt B Innes and WO1 D Grant on 41 pts

and then Northern Ireland’s Sgt R Fraser and Capt C Tweed on 40 pts.

As for the team scores, at this stage the team from Northern Ireland had firmly placed a marker down and were not going to give up the trophy without a fight, scoring an impressive 125 pts. Competition for the next few places was however much closer with North West (118 pts), Eastern (116 pts), North East (114 pts) and Scotland (112 pts) all within 6 pts of each other, but the best of the bunch trailing

behind Northern Ireland by 7 pts.

The afternoon singles competition was again played off the yellow tees and with the weather Practice makes perfect

36

starting to close in and a forecast of heavy rain, thunder and lightning, there were doubts as to

INTER REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Practice green whether all matches would be completed. Any

At the close of play Northern Ireland had retained

weather delay would severely disrupt our ability to

their title with a very commendable 311 pts, in

complete the competition, owing to the drawing in

runner-up position on 292 pts was Scotland, who

of the evenings. So, with the officials patrolling the

rose four places during the afternoon rounds, third

course to maintain a good pace of play, the

came Eastern region on 286 pts and fourth North

competition got underway. Play progressed well

East on 282 pts.

into the afternoon before the heavens opened and the lightning started, but, with frequent weather

Our thanks, once again, go out to the Worksop

checks and effective communication between the

committee and all its members for allowing us the

officials on the ground, play continued, except for a

use of their course for this year’s event and for their

brief period when the rain fell like a monsoon, and

generous

waterproofs were hurriedly donned. As the rain

mention must go to the Club Captain, Mr Stuart

subsided and play returned to normality it soon

Fletcher, who went out of his way to make us feel

became clear that Northern Ireland were going to

so welcome and also assisted as a starter for the

be difficult to beat as they maintained the pressure

day. To Scott Barber and his staff in the Pro shop,

on their closest rivals, one player posting 40pts and

Natalie Willis and her catering staff, and all of the

three others 37pts or better.

greenkeeping staff for setting the course so well.

hospitality

and

support.

A

special

Finally, a special mention to the new General The next four teams making up the chasing pack

Manager,

Mr

Simon

Booth,

who

following

a

from the morning Greensomes fought hard to

meeting to discuss future events agreed to host the

make a challenge with Scotland making the best

Inter Regional Championship for a further 5 years.

charge, but having started 13 pts adrift at the start

We are already looking forward to 2023!

of the singles it was always going to be a big ask and whilst they leapfrogged the North East, North

Our thanks again to Thales, the AGA headline

West and Eastern regions, they ended up 19 pts

sponsor, to BT and Comm Spec who continue to

short of Northern Ireland.

provide pro bono IT tech support to the AGA, to the

37

INTER REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP Army Sport Control Board, and last, but by no

RESULTS

means least, to Lt Col (Retd) Keith Seddon, the Tournament Director, for his unstinting efforts to ensure the event ran smoothly.

With the Championship secured at Worksop Golf Club for the next 5 years, we look forward to returning on Tue 5 and Wed 6 Sep 23 with the usual practice round and Committee match taking place on Tue 5 Sep 23.

Greensome Pairs (AM): 1st

Capt Muir and Sgt Simmons

46 pts

2nd

WO2 Butler and Mr Cooper

43 pts

Singles Nett (PM): 1st

Sgt Ian Lockwood

41 pts

2nd

Maj Alan Falconer

40 pts OCB

3rd

WO1 John Butler

40 pts

4th

Capt Cliff Tweed

39 pts

Regional Team Scores: 1st

Northern Ireland

311 pts

2nd

Scotland

292 pts

3rd

Eastern

286 pts

4th

North East

282 pts

5th

North West

273 pts

6th

South West

266 pts

7th

Wales

258 pts

8th

West Midlands

256 pts

9th

South East

255 pts

L to R: Maj A Falconer, Sgt R Fraser, Trish Westwood (WGC Lady Captain), Capt D Muir, LCpl S Clare, Stuart Fletcher (WGC Captain), Capt C Tweed, Sgt J Simmons

38

QUILL & CLUB TOURNAMENT

T

QUILL & CLUB TOURNAMENT he annual AGA Quill and Club Tournament is

played off full handicap from the yellow/red tees. It

organised by the AGA committee as the

must be said the course was in excellent condition

season’s

close

for

all

the

current

and

past

organisers of AGA events at Army, Corps and

given

the

particularly

wet

weather

we

had

experienced in the lead up to the event.

Regional level. This year it was hosted at the Army’s spiritual home, the Army Golf Club in Aldershot on

The weather had picked up for the day and, with a

Thu 6 Oct. In a break from the norm, and to provide

warm front sitting over Aldershot, rain was not

a better opportunity for the Regional and Corps

forecast. The course was playing well with only one

Secretaries to discuss issues from the Annual

temporary green, owing to a new greenside bunker

General Committee meeting at length, the two

being built, which put the usual 12th green out of

events

Committee

play. After the blisteringly hot summer and only

meeting taking place, virtually, the following week.

recent rain the course was in surprisingly good

This also meant less stress for the AGA staff and

condition with lush fairways, all we could ask for

made

when all was said and done.

were

for

a

separated

more

with

convivial

the

occasion.

The

tournament was once again most generously

sponsored by Mr Geoff Hill from Astute. We remain

With a good range of handicaps, the highest being

grateful

although

17 and the lowest at +1, the returning previous

unfortunately Geoff was unable to attend this year.

Secretary, Martyn Allan who it would appear was

for

his

continued

support,

making good use of his retirement, dropping four Given the disruptions of the past 2 years as we

shots in four years. In fairness to all players there

navigated our way through the pandemic, our

were some very steady scores carded, half scoring

hopes of a larger than normal turnout were high. In

30+ and the rest in the 20s, bar one. The course

the end we were pleasantly surprised with a good

stood firm and proved a good test for everyone,

turnout. Unfortunately, neither our new President,

and with a few ‘risk and reward’ holes that favoured

Maj Gen Mark Pullan, stepping up from Chair as Lt

the brave it kept all players honest, although there

Gen Giles Hill left the Army or our new Chair, Col

were some impressive scores posted by a few of the

Kieran Seldon, were able to attend owing to

brave.

increased work commitments. Unfortunately, our ever-present Vice Chair, Lt Col (Retd) Bob Gamble had to step down at the last-minute owing to prior engagements. This left the Assistant Secretary to run the event, with the Secretary admirably performing his front of house duties. All things considered, we had a reasonable field of 21 players; 19 men and 2 ladies: Sue Lambert and Fiona Gray, returning after some time away. It was also good to see the AGA headline sponsor Thales, supported by

the effervescent Nick Miller, along with potential sponsors for next year: Sam Keen from Holts Bank and an old friend of the AGA Jason Botterill from Qioptiq; we hope and look forward to seeing more of them all next year on the circuit. Competition for the day was the usual format of 18 holes Stableford

Maj (Retd) Hamish Miln

39

QUILL & CLUB TOURNAMENT

Nick Miller accepting his prize from Sec AGA

Andy Harriott accepting his prize from Sec AGA

Results in the overall competition proved fairly

In the guest and sponsors competition all three

close with only 3 points separating the top four

scored well, with the second and third places

players, then there was a gap of 3 to the next group

decided on count back. Nick Miller from Thales,

of 3 or 4 players. But all things changed when the

with his new golf swing, took the spoils with a score

last flight came in with Andy Harriott, attending for

of 36 pts, with Sam Keen in second place, and Jason

the first time in some years, posting a score of 40

Botterill in third. All three were inside the top 6 of

pts off of a handicap of 3, so hats off to Andy who

the overall competition, so well done to you all!

played

a

great

Unfortunately

for

game the

on

a

tough

track.

Secretary,

Andy’s

score

The event closed with a lovely two course carvery

pushed him out of the running for a prize (Andy

meal, which was first class. Our thanks to all at the

also took the nearest the pin in two prize from him).

Army GC for making us feel welcome and hosting

So, in third place with 36 pts was Jamie Lucas, in

the event impeccably. As usual a great time was

second place with a credible score of 37 pts was Ian

had by all, and this event was a fitting close to the

Lester and taking the spoils and the trophy with an

AGA Majors season. The next Quill and Club will

outstanding 40 pts was Andy Harriott.

take place at Mill Ride Golf Club on Thu 5 Oct 23.

RESULTS

Winner

Andy Harriott 40 pts

Runner-Up

WO2 Ian Lester 37 pts

Third

Adrian (Jamie) Lucas 36 pts

Guest / Sponsor Winner

Nick Miller 36 pts

Guest / Sponsor Runner-Up

Sam Keen 33 pts OCB

Guest / Sponsor Third

Jason Botterill 33 pts OCB

Nearest the Pin

Andy Harriott

Nearest the Pin in 2

Andy Harriott

40

EX BIRDIE 22

EX BIRDIE 22

By WO2 Lee Wright REME

A

fter months of preparation and planning by WO2 (AQMS) Lee Wright, the day finally

arrived on 26 Jun for 13 Air Assault Support Regiment Golf Society (13AASR GS) to depart the UK for Portugal on Ex BIRDIE 22. This would be the 1st Golf Tour in the history of 13AASR and this,

combined with the social limitations due to COVID, I

would

say

meant

excitement

was

an

understatement. The transport was packed and after a swift docs check we embarked on our journey from Colchester to Stansted airport. Check in and bag drop was smooth and there were no queues at security, which gave us plenty of time to have breakfast before the flight. We finished breakfast and grabbed a drink, only to find out the flight has been delayed for 3 hours!

After a light snooze during the flight, we arrived in Faro airport, met with our transfer driver, and headed towards the hotel. The delay at Stansted had a knock-on effect with timings for our 1st team bonding event. With no time for a shower, we dumped our bags into our allocated rooms and

42

Capt Gwynn-Cousins setting up on the simulator

EX BIRDIE 22

Lt Garroway and WO1 Sargeant looking for another lost ball headed towards Golfland for food and our 1 st round of golf to practise on Trackman simulators, playing the world-famous St Andrews course.

Day two. Reveille 0800 for a light run along the beach before the first match, held at Silves Golf resort. Most holes have mountain views overlooking palm trees and olive groves, making for superb scenery with authentic Portuguese smells coming

from the local cork factory. As our first round out on

WO2 Baron enjoying his round

a course, this was more a practice to shake off the cobwebs rather than a strict competition. The

and one frustrated officer, Capt Joseph Jenkins,

match was won by WO2 (AQMS) Matt Baron with a

who lost a total of 15 balls in a single round of golf,

Stableford score of 30, closest to the pin was Lt Oli

mainly in the water on hole 5. Overall winning pairs

Measey and longest drive SSgt Lewis Haddon. A

team was WO1 (ASM) Guy Sargeant and Lt Keiran

few

between

Garroway scoring a combined Stableford score of

watering holes, we soon arrived at Golfland for our

80. Closest to the pin was again Lt Oli Measey and

second team, bonding event – minigolf.

longest drive WO2 (AQMS) Matt Baron.

Day three. Tee off was scheduled for 1106hrs at Vale

Day four. Tee off at 1048hrs at Alto Golf, 13AASR GS

de Pinta Golf. Eager and raring to go, 13AASR GS

vs Golfland GS. Alto Golf has long rolling fairways

commenced a pairs competition. A technical,

that provide plenty of forgiveness suiting big

challenging narrow course led to multiple lost balls

hitters;

refreshments

later,

bouncing

Pre match putting practice at Silves

however most

holes

are situated

on

SSgt Haddon teeing over the lake on the 5th

43

EX BIRDIE 22 using the Stableford system. The Captain of the club, Ian, who happened to be retired RAF, organised a team of retired Army and RAF members now living in Portugal. This led to good conversation and competition throughout the day and ended up in Ian’s privately owned villa situated on hole 3. Whilst enjoying his excellent hospitality with BBQ food and drinks, short speeches took place as well the prizes. Overall 13AASR GS lost to the local veterans but this was expected due to their local knowledge of the course and years of playing!

Day six. No more golf. Everyone was exhausted from walking the hilly courses in the midday sun and welcomed a relaxing day by the pool as we waited for our evening flight back to Stansted.

Ex BIRDIE 22 was thoroughly enjoyed by all those who took part. The team bonding events provided a structure for the evenings along with some golf practice with the simulator and minigolf. The four rounds played at picturesque golf courses with

ideal weather conditions have set up members of 13AASR GS ready for the remaining Corps events for this 22/23 golf season and beyond.

Capt Gwynn-Cousins fetching a ball elevated greens, making it challenging to finish unless you are on top of your short game. The scoring system used was Stableford, allowing our golf team to finish ahead of the local players by the

smallest of margins - thanks to WO1 (AMS) Guy Sargeant for carrying the team with his handicap of 40!

Day five. Back to Vale de Pinta for our final round against Carvoeiro Golf and Country Club, again

Some members of 13AASR GS and Carvoeiro Golf and Country Club

RESULTS Winner

WO1 Guy Sargeant

Runner-Up

Lt Keiran Garroway

Third

Lt Oli Measey

Longest Drive

WO2 Matt Baron x 3

Longest Drive

SSgt Lewis Haddon x 1

Nearest the Pin

Lt Oli Measey x 2

Pairs Winners

WO1 Guy Sargeant and Lt Keiran Garroway

44

By Maj Jack Musgrove RA

I

am very proud of the how the Army Mens team

their own in this match. It was also a great chance

performed during the 2022 season. My aim as the

to bring new players in at the deep end against top

team’s Captain during the season was to provide

amateurs.

new golfers the opportunity to represent the Army.

opposition can only make us better in my eyes and

I believe that increasing our squad size and

it is something I want us to do whenever the

providing competition for places is important,

opportunity arises. Against Cheshire it is notable

especially due to the current tempo of Field Army

that four of our team were unbeaten over the day’s

Commitments and an increasing number of Mens

foursomes

team fixtures. Sustainable success in the future will

Saunders, SSgt Adam Hayward, Spr Graeme Torrie,

require

and me. The same four team members represented

a

large

pool

of

players

capable

of

competing in scratch events.

Testing

and

ourselves

singles

against

sessions,

Maj

strong

Danny

the Army at the UK Public Service Championship held at Coxmoor GC later in May, finishing 3rd

As Captain, I continue to be supported fantastically

overall in the team event behind the Royal Navy

by Sgt Richie Over and WO2 Kerry Roberts. They

and MOD Civil Servants sides. The main takeaway

remain our Vice Captain and Team Manager

from this event was how superb a venue Coxmoor

respectively. It would be remiss of me not to give a

GC is, and how well the course was presented.

special mention to Kerry who has not only done a great job in supporting our matches, driving at

In June, the team competed in back-to-back

least 2000 miles in the process, but has also

fixtures. On Sunday 12 June, the Army side came

strengthened our relationship with PING Europe.

out on top in a hugely enjoyable match against

Capt Scott Dickinson is now also established as our

Little Aston GC. Little Aston and their members

Mens Golf Development Officer and is helping pave

continue to go above and beyond to support Army

the way for the next generation of Army golfers.

Golf and I am proud that we have ties with such a prestigious and welcoming club. On the following

We opened the season in the usual style by

the day the team headed North to play the Civil

competing in the Brent Knoll Bowl and with a

Service at Royal Liverpool GC. Sadly, we fell short in

match against Hayling Island Golf Club. Maj Danny

this match. A superb singles session display from

Saunders and WO2 Kerry Roberts did a great job

the Civil Service secured their victory.

leading our teams in these fixtures. These early season fixtures provide a great chance to get the

A new event was introduced by the UK Armed

team back together after a long break and shake

Forces Golf Association in July, which was designed

off the cobwebs that winter golf (or lack of golf)

to help all three Services develop golfers and

inevitably creates. In May, we played a new fixture

identify

against the Cheshire County team at Lymm GC.

Championships

Cheshire’s elite squad were excellent in 2022; this

development Inter Services Championship and was

was proven by their North of England Inter-County

played under the same format as the main Inter

results. I was tremendously pleased the Army held

Service Championships, except that the matches

talent

for

future

Inter

Service

teams.

The

event

was

a

45

CAPTAIN’S REPORT

Maj Musgrove whilst representing the UK Armed Forces team at South Staffs GC

Cpl K Kennedy and Spr Torrie eyeing up a crucial playoff putt on the 17th hole at Royal Liverpool GC

were not played in a central location within the

involved in these matches becoming stalwarts of

same week. The Army played the RAF at the Army

our first team in the coming years.

GC on 13 Jul, led by the new Army Champion Golfer, Spr Graeme Torrie. Our team was a great mix of

In August, the Army entered three pairs into the

new talent and seasoned Army golfers and in the

Hoylake Scratch Mixed Foursomes. This is one of

Aldershot sunshine it was my great pleasure to

the premier amateur mixed events in Europe. As

witness the Army beat the RAF 8.5 to 6.5. On 22 Jul

such, I was very pleased that the British Army was

at Enville GC, the Army team were crowned the

represented in the field. The pairs were LCpl Niki

winners

Inter

Sutton and me, Sgt Richie Over and Sgt Abi

Services Championship after routing the Navy 13.5

Kennedy, and Spr Graeme Torrie and Cpl Kirsty

to 1.5. On this day, the Army did not lose any of their

Kennedy. Both our Ladies Captain and I firmly

10 singles matches, which is the first time I have

believe in reducing the gender divide within our

seen such a dominant afternoon display in my 25+

sport and making Army Golf as inclusive as

years of team golf. All credit must go to Captain

possible. It was great to see SSgt Melanie van Zyl

Torrie and his team. These matches demonstrated

and LCpl Niki Sutton playing in the AGA Open this

the depth of talent we have in the Army in

year. LCpl Sutton, to my knowledge, became the

comparison to the other Services. Personally, I am

first woman to represent the Army team in the

looking forward to seeing some of the players

2022 Hayling Island fixture. If any of you are

Sgt Bruce-Smith teeing off against the Navy at Newquay GC

LCpl Matthews teeing off in the Development IS Championship against the RAF at the Army GC

46

of

the

inaugural

Development

CAPTAIN’S REPORT

The Army team at Coxmoor GC after competing in the UK Public Services Championship organising golf at the Regional, Corps or Unit level

selected to represent the combined UK Armed

in 2023, I urge you to make golf as accessible as

Forces team against a combined UK Public Services

possible for both men and women. Our AGA

side. I was honoured to Captain the UKAF team

permanent committee are on hand to advise on

which ran out convincing 9-6 winners at South

how to conduct mixed gender events. The goal

Staffs Golf Club.

wherever possible must be to ensure everyone can participate and have fun.

I hope that like me you are all looking forward to the 2023 season. It promises to be our busiest year

Following

the

death

of

Her

Majesty

Queen

yet, and I will once again be trying to give as many

Elizabeth, the 2022 Inter Service Championships

people as possible the chance to play for the Army

were postponed and are rescheduled to take place

team. As a snapshot, in 2023 along with a busy

in April 2023. To close the season, the Army team

team fixture list, we will be competing for two Inter

took part in the Graham Butler Trophy at Ferndown

Service Championships, defending our Inter Service

Golf Club and the Cornish Piskey at Newquay Golf

Development Champions title, and conducting a

Club. The Army gave an excellent account of

tour to Florida. I hope to see you all at AGA regional

themselves in both fixtures. Finally in 2023, Spr

and national events throughout the year. Happy

Graeme Torrie, LCpl Alex Matthews and I were

golfing and best wishes.

The 3 mixed pairings representing the Army at the Hoylake Open Scratch Mixed Foursome in Aug 22

47

By WO2 Zoe (BK) Burrell -Knipe RLC

T

he 2022 season was a productive one for the

enhancing their management and administrative

Army Ladies. With no competitive golf played

experience.

for nearly 2 years it was fantastic to see the players out on the course again, enjoying their golf and

Burnham and Berrow in May is always a great

each other’s company.

fixture. A fantastic links course to play and the Ladies are always very welcoming, both during the

Over the winter our committee discussed various

match and at the evening meal afterwards. The

opportunities for development and recruitment of

team this year was a mix of representative and AGA

current and new players and the Development

players with 3 of the 4 matches going down to the

team worked tirelessly throughout the season to

last few holes but ultimately, we lost out 1.5 to 2.5 to

conduct events and recruit new players to the

our hosts.

Ladies Section for which I am extremely grateful.

In

June,

Wyboston

Lakes

welcomed

the

The last week in March saw 4 members of the

representative team back for the second year

representative team attend the Advanced Pro-Jam

running to host our annual fixture against the

development course at Brampton Heath Golf Club,

British Police and it was pleasing to see that the

providing them with some valuable coaching and

course was in much better condition than last year.

personal training at the beginning of the season.

The weather also stayed fine for the two days,

Feedback from the players was encouraging and

which is always a bonus. It was great to welcome

we will be looking to utilise this opportunity again

back Cpl Kirsty Kennedy RE and LCpl Bethan

in the future. Continuing with the theme of

Parker RAC into the fold after time away on

development, Maj Gina Smith REME and SSgt Kim

operational commitments; they have been sorely

Glynn-Galbraith AGC have done a fantastic job as

missed and we are over the moon to have them

our Development Officers this season, hosting an

back with us. On the flip side WO2 Claire Ham AGC

introduction day at Worldham GC in Alton for new

played in her first representative fixture. The

golfers (of which some have since gone on to play

standout

representative development fixtures for the Army

Galbraith AGC who made a fantastic eagle on the

Ladies) and organising the development fixtures.

9th in her singles match, knocking it in from 130yds

The first of the development matches was against

and playing 1 over gross through the front nine. As

the Army GC in Aldershot, a tough match off

always, each match was played in great spirits with

handicap saw us field a mixture of some of our

the friendly rivalry playing its part. However I am

newest players such as LCpl Lizzy Chapman AMS,

pleased to say that we came out on top with an

along with AGA members and well-seasoned team

overall 8-4 win, and we look forward to the 2023

players. This allowed us to compete on a more level

fixture at Macdonald Hill GC in Cheshire.

performance

was

SSgt

Kim

Glynn-

‘playing field’ but the result didn’t go our way losing the fixture 3-1. Another of the development fixtures

The Army Matchplay Championships held in July at

was vs Tylney Hall; loaded with new players both

Saunton Golf Club is a firm favourite in the golfing

regular and reserve, our team was captained by one

calendar; playing such a beautiful links course at a

of

club that welcomes us the way they do is always a

48

the

junior

representative

squad

members

LADY CAPTAIN’S REPORT

Army Ladies at Tylney GC in Aug 22 pleasure, so the players and I arrived eager to

Three players attended their first Army Matchplay

compete. The event this year was preceded by a

(WO1 Vicky van Zyl AMS, WO2 Claire Ham AGC and

mixed

to

Musn Justine Stringer CAMUS which was great to

commemorate their 125 year anniversary. With 10

see and showed promising results from our

females and 22 males on each side, the event was a

recruitment drive, especially after a number of our

great display of camaraderie and friendship only

more established players were unable to attend

strengthening the relationship between the Army

due to service commitments. Unfortunately, on day

and

was

one of the championships, I tested positive for

competitively fought with Saunton GC coming

COVID and had to withdraw and return home

away as narrow winners and none of us will dwell

missing out on the golf. The full report can be found

on the missed putt by the AGA Secretary on 18 to

elsewhere in this publication under the Army

flip the result – MUCH!

Matchplay Championships (see page 26).

match

Saunton

against

GC.

The

Saunton

match

Gina Smith

GC

overall

Mel van Zyl and Liz Griggs

49

LADY CAPTAIN’S REPORT

Left to right Claire Ham, Kim Glynn-Galbraith, Niki Sutton, Emma Dann

Left to right Sue Lambert, Gina Smith, Alex O’Brien, Zoe Burrell-Knipe

August brought a new fixture for the representative

with our male counterparts to compete, further

team at Eaton GC, Norwich, who have a very strong

developing the desire of both Jack and me as the

Ladies section enabling us to have a competitive

Army Captains to make our sport as inclusive as we

fixture to assist with IS development. The Ladies

can. This year two of the pairings brought home

were extremely welcoming, and the course played

silverware and the third performed admirably in

well despite searing temperatures in the preceding

the main part of the competition, which is great to

months. Eaton Ladies took a narrow win this year

see from such a prestigious event. With some of our

but with both sides keen to make this an annual

ladies playing in the AGA Open this year and LCpl N

fixture, we look forward to pushing for the win in

Sutton AGC being the first woman to represent the

2023.

Army Mens team playing alongside our male colleagues at Hayling Island, we are certainly

The end of the month was the Hoylake Scratch

heading in the right direction.

Mixed Foursomes, where 3 of the team joined up Unfortunately, due to the passing of Her Majesty

Queen

Elizabeth,

the

2022

Inter

Service

Championships were postponed and have been rescheduled to take place in April 2023, where we will look to defend our title and hope to make it 5 in a row.

Huge congratulations must go to Maj Gina Smith REME for being awarded ‘Player of the Year 2022’ for her performance across the season and her commitment to the development of our players.

2023 will see the Army Ladies team continue with their development and recruitment drive as well as

an overseas tour to Thailand. The committee continue to work hard to meet our targets and hopefully the year will see us win not one but two more IS Championships. Best wishes, Army Ladies at Wyboston Lakes GC in Jun 22

50

AGA EASTERN

By Capt Chis Tate With the pandemic ‘almost’ behind us, we were

was a Strokeplay event, with only three players

looking

no

breaking par. Well played to the overall winner

interruptions. It didn’t go to plan as Covid finally

Robbie Reynolds and to Capt Ingham, WO2 Huyser

caught up with me two days before the first event;

and Sgt Cooper for their under-par rounds against

however I brought on the super sub and Maj Dave

the course of par 72.

McGee

forward

stepped

to

in

a

great

seamlessly.

year

Still

with

with

the

R Reynolds

67

1st

A Ingham

70

R-Up

C Tate

75

during the year, a Stableford, a Strokeplay, 36 hole

3rd

B Saunderson

76

Championships and the coveted Bogey trophy.

1st

R Cooper

70

R-Up

A Huyser

71

3rd

J Shaw

73

remainder of the ERG golfing year being played on

Champion

completely new venues, we had loads to look forward to. The region managed to hold four events

Div 1

Div 2 Event One - Brampton GC - 31 Mar 22 A slightly wet start to the ERG golfing year would

Event Three - Rushden GC - 28 Jul 22

be an understatement, torrential rain and gale force winds being the order of the day, and the 26

Rushden

was

a

quirky

little

course

with

players that took part were steadfast in their resolve

outstanding hospitality. ERG like to have the ability

to get around. A challenging course was presented,

for a two tee start for the 36 hole Championship so

which included the par 3 stroke index 1 hole - not

we are not finishing in the dark, as we have done in

for the faint hearted. Such was the challenge it is

previous years, and thankfully Rushden basically

booked for 2023, just hoping for better weather.

closed the course for us. The course is split into two distinct set ups with the older established front

Champion Div 1

Div 2

R Lloyd

33

1st

A Ingham

31

R-Up

J Crossley

30

3rd

R Reynolds

30

1st

D Carey

29

R-Up

W Ginn

29

3rd

I Piears

29

nine and newer American style back nine, both

Event Two - Lakeside Lodge GC - 26 May 22 A reasonable turn out with another 28 players teeing it up on another new venue for the ERG. Great start to the day with a full English to set everyone up. Hospitality was great and the course certainly provided a stiff challenge, especially as it

ERG Scratch Champion

51

REGIONAL REPORTS presented in good condition. Again, some great golf played and special congratulations to SSgt Spicer who had a hole in one… and stood his round at the bar (mostly coffees). He was compensated with a double entry in the two’s competition.

Scratch Winner

Capt C Tate

61

Scratch R-Up

Capt A Ingham

55

1st

WO1 G Stones

64

R-Up

WO2 C Morton

63

1st

Sgt R Cooper

72

R-Up

Mr ‘Scouse’ Lloyd

67

Div 1 Div 2

Event Four - St Neots GC - 13 Oct 22 32 players rose to the challenge of St Neots, which is a great little course, having to plot your way around, driver not required too often. The day started with a full English, before tackling what was considered a super venue for all standards of golfer.

Although the course was still recovering form the

J Crossley gets the thumbs up from his playing partners

heat of the summer it played ok and only 5 players beat it.

Inter Regionals - Worksop GC - 6-7 Sep 22

Champion

W Ginn

2Up

1st

J Butler

2Up

R-Up

C Tate

1Up

3rd

S Anderson

1Up

in the top 6 could play so the super subs were

1st

P Spencer

2Up

brought in. Congratulations to J Butler, pictured

R-Up

A Smith

A/S

left, on winning the Third Nett Score and also the

3rd

D McGee

-1

Greensome runners-up prize, with partner Rob

Div 1

Div 2

The ERG team was selected from the Order Of Merit (OOM) standings after the year’s golf. The system works well but unfortunately not everyone

Cooper, at the Inter Regional Championship.

Summary The ERG has had a reasonable year’s golf with c120 players playing across four events, plus the team of 6 to Worksop for the Inter Regional Championship.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those that ventured out on to the fairways and a special

thank

you

again

to

Paul

Taylor

for

organising some additional trophies for ERG, which added to a small prize pot from the AGA. If you are reading this you must have a small interest in golf, so spread the word, AGA and especially the ERG is

classless and open to all ranks. We need more talent or individuals to develop for the future of ERG and Army golf, so please advertise as widely as possible. More information can be obtained from John Butler deep in concentration

52

the Eastern Secretary on eastsec@armygolf.co.uk, Mil: 94650 5120 or Civ: 01284 718470.

REGIONAL REPORTS

AGA NORTH WEST

By Capt Neil Williams Event One - St Anne’s Old Links - 22 Apr 22

Event Three - Penwortham GC - 22 Jun 22

After missing two seasons of AGA golf due to

Penwortham was the venue for our third event

COVID, it was a very much anticipated and

where the golfing gods were watching over us as

welcomed return to the 28 golfers who made their

we had clear blue skies and sunshine all day. A

way to St Anne’s Old Links. St Anne’s Old Links is a

short but fiddly parkland course saw some very

Par

good scores, particularly CSgt Lewis Royle, who

72

Championship

Links

course

on

the

Lancashire West coast, is regularly voted in the top

reduced the 142-yard par 3 15th hole to an ace.

100 courses in England, and is a qualifying course for the Open Championship.

Results:

A windy day made it a stern test for this first event

Champion – Mick Wiggins 39 pts

of the season; I was entertained by the expressions

Runner-Up – Matthew Griffiths 38 pts

of those players coming into the clubhouse at the

Third place – Lewis Royle 36 pts

end to hand in their scorecards a mixture of horror

Nearest the Pin – David Wilson

and despair from most.

Longest Drive – Sam Thompson

A long day in the end with it being a full field of

Event Four - Worsley Park GC - 12 Jul 22

players and with the strong winds making playing conditions very tricky to say the least, a score of 36

We headed over to Manchester for our fourth event

level par was definitely a good target for the day.

of the season, to Worsley Park Golf Course, which is regarded as one of the finest inland courses in the

Results:

North of England and has been a regular venue for Professional Tournaments over the years. The

Champion – Stephen Buck 36 pts

greens were soft and true so made scoring very

Runner-Up – Mick O’Hara 36 pts

good. Two outstanding scores came from Capt Neil

Third place – Darren Holmes 35 pts

Williams, who shot 3 under par gross with 15 pars

Nearest the Pin – Robert Delamar MBE

and 3 birdies, and Capt Steve Tickle, who scored a

Longest Drive – Paul Johnstone

phenomenal 45 points.

Event Two - Formby GC - 3 May 22

Results:

Our second event found us playing at the fabulous

Champion – Steve Tickle 45 pts

Formby Golf Club, ranked inside the top 100 golf

Runner-Up – Rob Delamar MBE 42 pts

courses in the UK; Formby never disappoints. No

Third place – Neil Williams 41 pts

surprise, we had our biggest turn out of the season

Nearest the Pin – Lewis Royle

with 38 players teeing it up.

Longest Drive – Connor Eastham

Results:

Event Five - Shaw Hill GC - 10 Aug 22

Champion – Kyle Cooper 41 pts

Shaw Hill Golf & Spa Hotel is located near the

Runner-Up – Ross Grundy 40 pts

Lancashire town of Chorley and is a challenging par

Third place – Connor Eastham 40 pts

72 parkland golf course. For this event, which was

Nearest the Pin – Scott Dickinson

the penultimate of this season, we had 16 players

Longest Drive – Leigh Clayton

attend on what turned out to be one of the hottest

53

REGIONAL REPORTS

Members of NW region at event one days of the year. Considering the heat, the course

The player in the lead of the season at this stage

was in fantastic condition and was thoroughly

was Robert Delamar MBE but unfortunately he was

enjoyed by all who played.

away on exercise in Estonia. In order to catch him in the points race the players in second and third

My distinct memory of this round was that of water

places, Glen Riding & Matthew Griffiths needed to

conservation! With no half way house in operation

score 37 & 38 points respectively in order to catch

and the 9th/10th being well away from the

him.

clubhouse, there was no chance of getting a resupply. It was that warm, you could have quite

It was a cold overcast day on an unfamiliar course

easily drunk all your fluids within the first 9 holes, so

for most; this was reflected in the scoring as most

a bit of water rationing and ‘buddy buddy’ sharing

struggled on a tight course and avoiding the trees

managed to get us through.

off the tees seemed increasingly difficult. In the end, it was too much of an ask on a tough day and

A cracking summer round of golf on a great course

unfortunately Glen & Matthew were unable to close

in fantastic condition.

the gap.

Results:

Congratulations to Robert Delamar MBE who was now the AGA NW 2022 champion golfer. A great

Champion – Matthew Griffiths 38 pts

comeback season for the NW, onwards & upwards

Runner-Up – Robert Delamar MBE 36 pts

for 2023.

Third place – Tony Davies 35 pts Nearest the Pin – Glen Riding

Results:

Longest Drive – Nick Wise Champion – Jase Moore 41 pts Event Six - Leyland GC - 7 Sep 22

Runner-Up – Al McKenna 36 pts Third place – Paul Nuttall 33 pts

The final event of the season was held at Leyland

Nearest the Pin – Carl Goddard

Golf Club, which is a par 70 parkland course

Longest Drive – Paul Johnstone

situated in the heart of Lancashire, just south of Preston. It was all to play for in this event as several

The overall winner of the North West 2022 season

players still had a chance to claim the overall title

was Robert Delamar MBE, the runner-up was Glen

for the 2022 season.

Riding, and third was Matthew Griffiths.

54

REGIONAL REPORTS

AGA NORTH EAST

By Maj Neil Bulmer The resurrection of the North East golf after a

Final League top 5:

4-year hiatus appears to have been welcomed by all across what is a big area in the North East of

Champion – Mr Pete Lynch

England. To that end, the events were spread far

Runner-Up – Capt Kumar Pun RGR

and wide as you can see below. Some with more

Third place – Mr Steve Thompson

success than others, but this has also allowed me to

Fourth place – Mr Karl Atkinson

better shape the 2023 season and our locations to

Fifth place – Maj Neil Bulmer YORKS

play golf.

The top 5 players from the season and the grand The 2022 season was made up of 6 league events

final winner were all selected for the Regional

and a Grand Final, all playing their part in selecting

Championship and would be heading to Worksop

the team for the Regional Championship at

GC in early September to take up the regional

Worksop in early September. There was a great mix

challenge. Unfortunately, due to unchangeable

of serving personnel and veterans across all events,

commitments Karl Atkinson was unable to play and

with the spoils also spread amongst each group.

was replaced in the team by the next player in the

The average number of attendees across the

final league table, Cpl Nathan Rose YORKS. After a

season was 32 players, and 25 people scored league

shaky morning of foursomes from all, the team had

points across all events. The locations and winners

a better afternoon with Sgt Ian Lockwood YORKS

are listed below.

having the top individual score of the day with 44 pts. The team finished in a credible 4th place. Well

Event 1: Weatherby GC - Mr Pete Lynch

done all.

Event 2: York GC - Mr Jack Baldwin Event 3: Driffield GC - Capt Kumar Pun

The format for the 2023 season will be the same,

Event 4: Durham GC - Cancelled

with only the 36 hole grand final day being

Event 5: Selby GC - Sgt Danny Ray

tweaked slightly to include a 9 hole team event and

Event 6: Cleveland GC - Mr Karl Atkinson

an 18 hole individual play only. I hope the

Grand Final: Catterick GC - Sgt Ian Lockwood

participation will grow as word spreads that the North East golf is back in town.

Thank you to all the clubs listed for their support and understanding, and keeping the cost of each

Good luck to everyone for the upcoming season!

event as low as possible.

AGA SOUTH EAST

By WO2 Matt Priston As Army Golf and the world emerged from the

up with some stalwarts of the regional meets, my

cloud of the pandemic, so did I as the newly

first year as secretary has been a very enjoyable

appointed secretary for the South East region. It

one. This was made easier by the fantastic support

has been a fantastic year so far, whether it be

of Steve, Di and Jana at the AGA and all of the

playing new courses within the region, welcoming

members in my region.

new players to the events, seeing members of the region attend wider AGA tournaments, or catching

Thank you.

55

REGIONAL REPORTS Spring Meeting - 16 Mar 22 - Oaks GC

decided on countback, WO1 Ray Conway emerged victorious

The spring meeting was contested by 38 golfers,

with

a

tremendous

40

points

on

countback.

ranging from low handicaps to those at the higher end of the range. Nonetheless, the day was a well

Results:

contested event, played over 18 holes Stableford at the Oaks Golf Centre on what turned out to be a dry

Champion – WO1 Ray Conway

and mild day.

Runner-Up – LCpl Sanjib Limbu Third place – Maj Justin Revell

With 4 points splitting the top 5 the day belonged

Most Golf – WO2 Nick Gill

to golfers from 3 PWRR filling 3 of the top four

Nearest the Pin – WO2 Jamie Lucas (x2)

places, with Maj Dhan Gurung being crowned the

Nearest the Pin – Capt Al Ahern

SE Spring Champion.

Longest Drive – WO1 Ray Conway Par 3 Champion – LCpl Sanjib Limbu

Results:

Par 3 Runner-Up – Sgt Deian Jones

Champion – Maj Dhan Gurung

Inter Regionals - Worksop GC - 6-7 Sep 22

Runner-Up – CSgt Martine Dodds Third place – Sgt Ashley Burns

The region was represented by 6 players at the

Fourth place – CSgt Sanjay Ghale

Inter Regional Championship and whilst they put

Nearest the Pin – Cpl Raju Tamang

up a valiant fight, they were unable to bring home

Nearest the Pin – WO2 Netra Rai

the

Nearest the Pin – Mr Ian Houghton

expressed strong encouragement for others to put

silverware.

All

six

enjoyed

the

day

and

Longest Drive – Cpl James Watson

L to R: Capt Deb Ghale, Sgt Hugh McGarvey, WO1 Chris Topping, Maj Justin Revell, WO1 Guy Wilkinson (C) & Cpl Jimmy Watson

Spring Champion 22 - Maj Dhan Gurung

Summer Meeting - Drayton Park GC - 7 Jul 22

themselves forward for selection next year.

Quill & Club Tournament - Army GC - 6 Oct 22

With

the

Army

Matchplay

and

Inter

Corps

Championships taking place at Saunton the same

With participation by invite only, WO2 Jamie Lucas

week the event went ahead to allow those less

and I attended the Quill & Club Tournament at the

talented or not selected to enjoy another glorious

Army Golf Club, competing for the coveted trophy

day of sunshine on the course. Making the most of

against

Drayton Park’s facilities, the format of the day was

committee members and sponsors of the AGA in

Stableford, first over 9 holes on the short Par 3

an 18 hole Stableford format. Whilst the weather

course, followed by lunch, before attacking the

was fantastic, and the course in great condition as

main course for 18 holes. The day was well

always, sadly my golf wasn’t. However, Jamie played

contested by 20 players and with the course in

very well and secured third place in a very

great condition good scores were no doubt

enjoyable

inevitable. With much of the order of merit being

afterwards. A big thank you to Steve Davis and Di

56

past

day,

and

present

including

AGA

a

secretaries,

carvery

dinner

REGIONAL REPORTS Walters for organising the day.

AGA WALES

By WO2 Mal Burn Season Open Meeting - The Vale GC - 30 Mar 22

Results:

After the winter period, the opening golfing event

Champion – Craig Samuel

of the year took place at The Vale Golf & Country

Runner-Up – Kim Burn

Club with the chosen national course. The Vale is

Third place – Lloyd Jenkins

one of the finest venues for Golf in Evesham, with

Nearest the Pin – Dafydd Gould on the 5th

superb views over the Malvern and Bredon Hills.

Nearest the Pin – Sam Crawshaw on the 11th

Even

though

the

weather

had

been

very

unpredictable over the previous couple of weeks, it

Summer Meeting - Cottrell Park GC - 6 Jul 22

was great to get a dry round of golf on a most stunning and beautiful course. Yes, golf should be a

The third event of the year took place on the Button

challenge, but on the national course it was a

Gwinnett Course in Cottrell Park, located just

layout where you can perfect your technique prior

outside Cardiff. This magnificent course, with its

to the start of the season. The course was in great

rolling views of the Vale, is based more on an

condition and the hospitality, which The Vale laid

American design with a number of water features

on, was superb. The event was a full handicap

spread over the 18 holes. A beautiful sunny day, the

Stableford competition from the yellow tees over 18

course

holes. The event was well turned out with 48

conditions.

golfers. Congratulations to Lloyd Jenkins, who won

Stableford competition played from the yellow tees.

with a great score of 40 points.

Great scores again, three personnel had 37 pts and

played

The

long

in

event

the

was

a

windy

weather

full

handicap

John Hendry won the event OCB, thanks to his 30Results:

foot birdie on the last hole. A fantastic turnout of 40 golfers.

Champion – Lloyd Jenkins Runner-Up – Rob Picton

Results:

Third place – Jim Kirkpatrick Nearest the Pin – Jason Suller on the 3rd

Champion – John Hendry

Nearest the Pin – John Hendry on the 14th

Runner-Up – Mal Burn

Third place – Dave Hurley Spring Meeting - Gower GC - 11 May 22

Nearest the Pin – Neil Summers on the 16th Longest Drive – Craig Samuel on the 5th

The second event of the year took place at the Gower Golf Club, 18 hole parkland course, which is

Autumn Meeting - Morlais Castle GC - 22 Sep 22

located at the entrance to the beautiful Gower Peninsula. As we arrived, early in the morning ready

The last event of the year took place at Morlais

for our bacon roll and coffee, the weather was

Castle GC. Situated on the outskirts of Merthyr

horrendous; however by the first tee time the

Tydfil, the golf club is enjoyable for both low and

clouds blew away leaving a cold but stunning day.

high handicapped golfers. A challenging moorland

What an absolute pleasure to play this course with

golf course set in the surroundings of the foothills

stunning views over the sea to England. What a

of the Brecon Beacons with some magnificent

hidden gem! The event was a full handicap

scenic views. The event was a full handicap

Stableford competition from the yellow tees over 18

Stableford competition from the yellow tees over 18

holes. Great scores were had by all, but Craig

holes. Great scores again; congratulations to Paul

Samuel took the glory quite easily. Well done,

Hicks who won the event with a fantastic score of

another great turnout of 38 golfers.

43. A good turnout of 34 golfers.

57

REGIONAL REPORTS Results:

As the Chair, Secretary and gofer, I want to personally thank all those golfers, who have

Champion – Paul Hicks

attended each of the golf events and supported

Runner-Up – Mal Burn

AGA Wales. Keep smiling fellow golfers, stay safe

Third place – Rick O’Shea

and I hope to see you all this year. Happy golfing!

Nearest the Pin – Rick O’Shea on the 11th

AGA NORTHERN IRELAND

By WO2 Paul Morey 2022 has been a relatively quiet year for Northern

retained the Inter Regional trophy after playing at

Ireland, partly because of the pandemic; however

the Championship held at Worksop GC in Sep 22.

there has been a large number of serving personnel and Army veterans involved with a number of

Owing to security measures there are no details

societies across the region, including the NIAGS,

released via media of any activities held in NI.

which celebrated its centenary year.

The Northern Ireland Region has a large number of WO2 Paul Morey took over as the Regional

fantastic courses from Parkland to Links varieties,

Secretary for Northern Ireland in Jun 22.

and with the easing of restrictions the plan to

increase the number of events will hopefully see A team from the AGA Northern Ireland successfully

AGA members make full use of these events.

AGA SCOTLAND

By Capt George Watson Getting back to some form of normality, this year

has

been

wonderful

and

we

have

had

Results:

an

outstanding year on the fairways of Scotland.

Div 1 Champion – Stuart Campbell Div 1 Runner-Up – George Watson

Spring Meeting - Turnberry GC - 14 Apr 22

Div 2 Champion – Andy Kennan Div 2 Runner-Up – Frank Martin

The first event of the year was held on the world

Div 3 Champion – Philip Mould

famous Trump Turnberry GC, a beautiful peninsula

Div 3 Runner-Up – Ross Manson (RN)

of links land on the coast of South Ayrshire, with

Nearest the Pin – Ben Dempster (RAF)

spectacular views across the Firth of Clyde to the

Longest Drive – Mal Moule

islands of Arran and Ailsa Craig, the Mull of Kintyre and even to Ireland on a clear day. The King Robert

the

Bruce

course

was

in

excellent

R SIGS vs AGA Scot - Haggs Castle GC - 8 Jun 22

scoring

conditions with 82 golfers in attendance, including

In June we played the annual match against the

representation from the Royal Navy and the RAF. As

touring R Sigs team at Haggs Castle Golf Club in

per normal, the field was split into 3 divisions and

Glasgow. A team of ten was selected and although

the scoring was really tight in all 3 as the results on

the weather was particularly wild on the day, this

the right show.

did not spoil the event and after some tough

58

REGIONAL REPORTS matches a gentlemen's ‘match all square’ was

Inter Regionals - Worksop GC - 6-7 Sep 22

declared.

In September we sent a strong team to the Inter Summer Meeting - Kinross GC - 19 Jul 22

Regionals at Worksop GC and after a spirited performance the team just came up a bit short into

The summer meeting was held on the hottest day

second place, which was a massive improvement

on record in Scotland. Kinross GC offers two

on the performance from last year. Could 2023, at

challenging but fair 18 hole golf courses known as

last, be the year we win for the first time? Here’s to

‘The Bruce’ and ‘The Montgomery’. We were

hoping.

blessed with great weather and the two courses were immaculate. 44 golfers were in attendance for

Development Match vs RLS - Kinross GC - Oct 22

the two rounds and the scores were really close.

We played in three divisions, with the combined

In

October

we

hosted

the

touring

RLC

Stableford scores in each division winning and the

development team with two rounds at Kinross in a

Scottish Champion was the player with the highest

really hard fought encounter, with the AGA team

overall combined score. The following were the

emerging victorious. The event was cancelled in

successful players on the day, with Maj Zander

Sep, due to Her Majesty’s funeral, and numbers

Russell the Scottish Champion after an outstanding

attending in Oct were slightly down. Hopefully next

second round.

year we will get back to a full turnout.

Results:

Autumn Meeting - Deer Park GC - 19 Oct 22

Div 1 Champion – Zander Russell

In October we returned to Deer Park in Livingstone

Div 1 Runner-Up – Stuart Campbell

with 36 golfers. The course played extremely well

Div 2 Champion – Arthur Frame

after two weeks of heavy rain and the green staff

Div 2 Runner-Up – Will Brown

deserve mention for the way they got the course

Div 3 Champion – Jack Crook

playable.

Div 3 Runner-Up – Tam Jeffrey NP Montgomery AM – Crawford Swanson

Results:

NP Montgomery PM – Peter Gorrie NP Bruce AM – Paul Chalmers

Div 1 Champion – Mark Tynan (RN)

NP Bruce PM – Brian Innes

Div 1 Runner-Up – Kenny Wilson

Longest Drive Montgomery AM – Craig Surgeon

Div 2 Champion – William Watson

Longest Drive Montgomery PM – George Watson

Div 2 Runner-Up – Alan Holmes

Longest Drive Bruce AM – Stuart Campbell

Div 3 Champion – John Mill

Longest Drive Bruce PM – Shaun Innes

Div 3 Runner-Up – Alex Watson Nearest the Pin – William Watson

Scotland vs RN - Deer Park GC - 31 Aug 22

Longest Drive – Ray Shiels (RN)

In August we played the annual match against the

Prize-Giving - St Michaels GC - 9 Nov 22

Royal Navy at Deer Park GC in Livingstone, a tough parkland course with lightning quick greens that

46 players attended the prize-giving. The majority

tested all those taking part. At long last we had a

of

female member of the team, WO2 Chalky White,

attendance to receive their prizes. The winners of

who partnered the Secretary on the morning 4BBB

the Texas Scramble on the day with a net score of

session, which we managed to win. This, along with

55.2 were:

the

winners

mentioned

above

were

in

the AGA team dominating the morning session, contributed to the AGA’s magnificent win by 8

Stuart Campbell, George Watson, Rory Stuart, Jim

points, and was after a spirited comeback by the

Westwood

Royal Navy on the singles matches in the afternoon.

Nearest the Pin – Arthur Frame

A great day played in the right manner.

Longest Drive – Andy Blair

59

REGIONAL REPORTS I want to thank all the AGA Scotland members, the Royal Navy Northern Society and the RAF Kinloss Society for their continued support throughout the year, and for those from the AGA who attended the RN and RAF events throughout the year.

Due to impending retirements the time has come for George Watson and Brian Innes to step down from the running of AGA Scotland. Brian retired in Dec 22 and I will be retiring in the summer of 2023. I want to take this opportunity to thank Brian for his support over the 14 years. We have both thoroughly enjoyed our time running the society and we wish our successors Kenny Wilson and Dave Grant all the best taking the society forward.

Brian Innes and George Watson

AGA WEST MIDLANDS

By Sgt Avinash Ale The West Midlands Golf’s aim is to improve

hole Stableford competition, and Maj Nick Hill won

competition formats and vary event locations to

the High HC Championship with 38 pts.

encourage and promote the sport across the region.

UK

West

Midlands

Golf

has

had

a

Summer Meeting - Llanymynech GC - 29 Jun 22

reasonably successful term, which also includes the Festival of Sport 2022.

The weather was on our side, and it was one of the prettiest courses. There were 18 participants in total,

Spring Meeting - Shropshire GC - 23 Mar 22

and Maj Nick Hill won the Stableford competition with an overall score of 41 pts, with Cpl Simon Nunn

The

year

started

with

the

Spring

Meeting.

as runner-up with 35 pts.

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend owing to my

last minute course confirmation, but Sgt Ishwor

WM Matchplay - Various GCs - Mar-Aug 22

kindly ran the event for me. The format for the event was 9 hole Texas Scramble and 18 hole

On 2 Feb WM Matchplay JIs were released. There

Stableford competition in the afternoon. WO2

were 9 SPs from the West Midlands who took part,

Claire, Cpl Prem, Sgt Roche, and WO2 Sanjay took first place in the Texas Scramble competition. Sgt Ross Milton became the Spring Champion with 39 pts. All in all, it was a success since everyone had a good time.

Handicap Championships - Telford GC - 11 May 22 The Handicap Championships, which began in 2021, were hosted at the Telford Golf Resort. There were 15 serving personnel competing overall, and the weather made things challenging. WO1 Suresh Gurung won the Low HC Championship in the 18

60

WM Matchplay Finalists: LCpl Forsyth and CSgt Cromwell before teeing off at The Belfry GC

REGIONAL REPORTS and the matches began from Mar 22. Since the final

Festival of Sport - Oakridge GC - 28 Sep 22

was the only one that would get funding from the AGA, SPs were required to host each other for the

An 18 hole Pairs Greensome Stableford competition

matches that were played. The opportunity to

was used, with alternate shots, until completion of

compete in the Plate Finals was extended to those

the hole. The day's handicap allowance was 60% for

who were relegated after the first game. They were

the lowest handicap and 40% for the highest

required to play at their present HC and adhere to

handicap.

R&A Matchplay rules.

A four man team representing each regiment Capt Ian Wells and Sgt Ross Milton competed in

competed for the day, with 24 SPs representing

the WM Plate Matchplay Finals on 15 Jun, which

their respective regiments, including reserves. 30

was arranged at the Derby Course, The Belfry. The

Sig Regt were the Major Unit Champions, with

Plate Matchplay was won by Capt Wells with 3/1.

DMRC as the Minor Unit Winners.

The WM Matchplay Finals between LCpl Forsyth

Inter Regionals - Worksop GC - 6-7 Sep 22

and CSgt Cromwell also took place on the Derby Course on 2 Sep 22. An extremely competitive

Following a careful team selection, Inter Regionals

match that saw LCpl Tyler demonstrate his skill and

were attended by a six person team from the WM

tenacity, but was ultimately won by CSgt Cromwell

region, which was represented by several cap

by a 2Up score on the 18th hole.

badges. CSgt Bikash Gurung, ARRC Bn led the team, which battled valiantly and finished with a solid 256 pts, but they were unable to secure a podium finish.

I was a little disappointed that I couldn't play again owing to commitments, but was happy for the sport being promoted for the regional golfers.

Due to work commitments, I could not organise an

Sgt Ross Milton and Capt Ian Wells

Autumn Meeting. The 2023 Winter Meeting had to be postponed to Jan 23 due to TRAWL Deployment.

AGA SOUTH WEST

By Maj Steve Hickey Spring Meeting - Tidworth GC - 5 Apr 22

offset the prizes, matches and the Inter Regions, and not to use it to buy team polo shirts. It was also

The Spring Meeting was well attended with 52

decided that the Summer Meeting would be held

players teeing it up. There were a few late

at Bath GC.

withdrawals due to covid & injury, however this was a very pleasing turnout, especially as it coincided

The Spring Meeting itself was a success, with so

with another Corps event.

many taking part there was plenty of noise from around the course, mainly when another 3 putt

The day started with the AGM, where the Secretary

happened (or even a few 4 putts). The course was in

laid out his plans for the coming year and

good condition and the greens played fast with

canvassed opinion on the venue for the next few

tricky pin placements. The wind really got up which

meetings. It was decided to use the AGA grant to

made it a challenge for all levels. This was

61

REGIONAL REPORTS highlighted by the winning score only being 36pts.

caused lots of issues, so well done to the two

The Longest Drive was won from the first 4 ball out

winners.

with the current Ladies Champion Niki Sutton smashing a monster down the 6th. Those following

The weather was good with a gentle breeze. This

couldn’t even see the marker from the tee. If the

allowed for good scoring from most of the field,

Longest Drive only had one name on it, the Nearest

however there were some outrageous scores from

the Pin had quite a few, with the winner finally

a few Kingsdown Club members. ‘Time spent on

coming from Liam Rutter.

recce seldom wasted’ comes to mind, or just too much time off playing golf!

With scoring difficult those who were in the prizes did very well, however it’s the taking part that

The rules are you can only win one prize, so some of

counts; a bad day on the golf course is always

the winners were the winners in more than one

better than a good day in the office!

category.

Ian Whitehead took first prize in the Stableford, Saroj Pun took the Net prize (he would have won the Stableford as well, as his morning round was 47 pts), with Sunil Gurung taking the afternoon prize with an equally impressive 44 pts. Al Hennessey took the Scratch prize with a total of 157.

A good day with some great scores played in the right spirit in the sunshine.

Spring Champion: Chris Vaughan

Summer Meeting - Kingsdown GC - 28 Jul 22 The day began with bacon rolls, always a winning

Al Cameron teeing off

start. As this was the Summer Meeting, it was a 36 hole event that included Gross, Net & Stableford competitions, ensuring everyone had something to

Autumn Meeting - Ogbourne Downs GC - 1 Nov 22

play for in the afternoon.

The Autumn Meeting was attended by 23 players.

The course was in good condition with the greens

This was a very pleasing turnout despite a few late

running true and fast. The staff at Kingsdown

withdrawals.

looked after us extremely well and this proved to be a good value event.

The day started with the heavy overnight rain and

wind easing. The course was in good condition with The Longest Drive was won in the morning by Tek

the greens running true despite the rain. The

Rai and in the afternoon by Matt Loft; two great

course is built over fast draining chalk downland

drives. The Nearest the Pin was won in the morning

which gives rise to tight springy fairways. This

by Aiden Eldred and in the afternoon by Lee

would later play havoc with the scoring as the

Williams, a short Par 3 down a big slope that

winds picked up in the afternoon.

62

REGIONAL REPORTS The Longest Drive was won by Callum Vaughan on

37, and sinking a putt to win the 18th and tie the

the 14th. The Nearest the Pin was won by Tek Rai;

match. Fraser and Alan were also worthy of note,

this was a short 120yd Par 3 played down a slope.

putting

Only 1 of the 23 hit the green, which shows how

understand that the rest of the matches were

difficult the wind made the course. Tek went on to

closer than they appear on paper, but home course

make the putt to be the only player to score a 2.

advantage proving the difference.

in

a

strong

winning

performance.

I

The rain held off for most of the day so players had blue skies. This also meant some shots were difficult to see due to the low sun. ‘Hit and hope’ took on a whole new meaning!

This was a Stableford competition. The winner of the Nett was Rasham Shrees, who was the only player to play under handicap. His 37 pts was 3 better than 2nd, where Ogbourne member Ervin Brown won OCB. Al Hennessey took the Scratch prize with a total of 27, with Fraser Bott running

Members of SW region at High Post GC

him close with 26. Fraser is also a member, so local knowledge clearly had an advantage.

SW vs Sherborne - 20 Jul 22

Another good day out. We got lucky with the

For the match the weather was very kind, a slight

weather on a challenging course in great condition

breeze throughout,

for November, and played in the winter sunshine.

generally excellent conditions; a great day to play

Those playing would like to play the course again in

golf. We struggled to field a team of 10 due to

better weather so we will maybe look out another

unavailability;

meeting in the future.

committed elsewhere and to other Corps events.

all

of

a

very brief shower,

the

reserves

were

but

also

The Sherborne Captain agreed prior to the match to field 8 players.

The first group went off the 1st at 1200hrs. With the temperature at around 23°C they had an uphill battle to contend with shots given. The gradient was too steep, especially on an away course they

had not played for many a year, Sherborne taking the first point. Sooty and Percy were following on playing the club 2022 Captain and partner, and 1st tee smiles didn’t last long

after halving the first 4 holes quickly found themselves 2 down. They fought back at the turn to all square. A nip and tuck game, unfortunately they

SW vs High Post - 4 May 22

were 2 down again, after missing a putt to win the hole to reduce the deficit to 1. Another point to

A fine May day saw the High Post GC hosting the

Sherborne, but a well fought match.

SW team. The course was in good condition, and a long period of dry weather saw the fairways firm

Marcus and Milan dovetailed very well together

and the greens running well. Fortunately, the rough

throughout their match, and at one point found

was not overly penal, and the conditions made the

themselves in control and 3 up. The wind on the

course play reasonably short from the yellow tees,

15th, 16th and 17th holes swirls around the valley,

making it an enjoyable experience for all. In the top

making these holes tricky. They battled on and

match, Steve George put in an outstanding

despite a comeback from the home team, they

performance, playing his front 9 in a gross score of

were victorious by 2&1.

63

REGIONAL REPORTS Om Pun and Lee Alfie brought up the final group

This is the first time SW played the friendly match

at 1230hrs start time, giving shots to the home

against

team playing David and Rob, steady and seasoned

players didn’t know the course well, but they

golfers. Once again they battled hard in a tight

enjoyed it and also the company from host team.

Chippenham

GC,

therefore

most

SW

match, unfortunately losing by 3&2 to finish the match.

Chippenham team Captain, Pat Blake, and many club members appreciated our presence, and are

A great day, fabulous course, and a great match

hoping to continue in the future. All in all, it was a

where the SW were hosted by a fantastic team.

great day and big well done to the SW team for the

Plaudits need to be highlighted to the green staff,

excellent result!

the

course

management

team

and

caterers.

Sherborne players were victorious winning 3&1.

SW vs Defence Academy - Tidworth GC - 5 Oct 22

Thanks to all those players who travelled and

The forecast for the day was for heavy rainfall but,

competed hard against a good side. Looking

due to the elevated position of Tidworth GC, the

forward to the return home match.

rain only fell for a few holes towards the middle to late holes of the round, albeit enough to soak you through in that time!

The two teams met in the clubhouse at a little after 1000hrs and enjoyed a hearty breakfast buffet prepared by our excellent hosts. The appeal of hot coffee and warm bacon baps proved far more

inviting than the range on the cold wet morning.

Members of SW region at Sherborne GC

The first group teed off at 1120hrs and quickly forged the way forward for the others. The Captain for the day, Steven Canning, shot a 71 gross score

SW vs Chippenham - 17 Aug 22

off his 5 handicap. In the second group, the star of the show was Marcus, rising to the occasion with

Generally excellent conditions and a great day to

his scratch partner coming in as victors. The third

play golf. Despite maximum leave period and

group suffered a shock defeat as we all hoped Pete

school holidays, SW did manage to field a team of

and

10, and the Chippenham Captain matched the

opponents, but after giving away a combined 11

number with their 10 players.

shots, it proved too much and they excruciatingly

Paul

would

be

able

to

dispatch

their

lost their match on the last hole.

The match started with the two Captains group at 1234hrs. The front 9 hole match was quite relaxed

Defence Academy thought at this point they may

and ended up with 2 up to the SW team, but the

have been able to grab a half; however, despite

back 9 gradually started to heat up. The team kept

Jacob having to give up an extraordinary 36 shots,

their lead and finally won the match with 4&3.

our final pair came in securing victory for the SW team on the last hole! His low handicap proved he had the skills on the day to deal with the howling wind.

Despite their defeat, the team from the Defence Academy were all smiles back in the clubhouse; the course, catering, and facilities proving to be much enjoyed on the day. Plenty of tales were shared and Members of SW region at Chippenham GC

64

enquiries on handicap accuracy made, all in good humour of course!

RLC

By SSgt Adam Herbert RLC Golf has been very active in 2022. We have over

Inter Corps and Army Matchplay

245 subscribers to our Corps Golf Society and have had more than 170 golfers who have played in

RLC entered 2 teams into Inter Corps 2022 at

some form of the Corps golf events this year – many

Saunton. One of our teams made it through to the

of them newcomers which is extremely positive.

semi-finals, losing to the AGC 3-1. We also did well in the main Matchplay event with our Chair, Maj

The Corps managed to play six of the scheduled ten Inter

Corps

matches

throughout

the

‘Jonny’ Howes, making it into the Quarter-Final.

season,

winning four, losing one and a half in the other. The

Spring Meeting - Belton Park GC - 3-4 May 22

intent is to play all events this year whilst bringing

more new players into the fold and setting up

The Spring Meeting was hard fought in very windy

fixtures with other Corps/Regiments.

conditions, but all competitors dug deep and the winners were: Gross Champion – Jonny Howes Net Champion – Adam Herbert Team Gross – 165 Regt RLC Team Net – 3 RLC

Club house at Belton Park GC

Summer Meeting - Hartlepool GC - 28 Jul 22 51 golfers attended what was a successful event

organised by SSgt Adam Herbert. There was some excellent scoring throughout the day with Jonny Howes Some of our members visiting St Andrews during the 22 Scotland tour

coming

out

on

top

in

the

scratch

competition with a superb Stableford score of 72.

SSgt Dafydd Gould became our Summer Net Champion with a score of 80 pts!

65

CORPS REPORTS Summary RLC Golf will be just as active if not more this year.

With new Fixtures Secretary Gary Adams, we plan to play all fixtures and AGA events played last year and more.

Summer Net Champion: SSgt Dafydd Gould

Autumn Meeting - Tidworth GC The Autumn Meeting saw fantastic conditions for low scoring. However, over Par won the day. Mr Dave Holyoak won the 36 hole Gross competition

Autumn Gross Champion: Mr Dave Holyoak

with 64 pts.

A AC

By Lt Col Al McKenna MBE This season has been one of reinvigoration post

In such a small Corps, it can be difficult to obtain

COVID and a ‘changing of the guard’. We have seen

the services of our ‘natural’ athletes, who are pulled

a number of established players retire from the

in different

Corps and the Chair’s main effort has been

brothers, AirTprs Jack & Harry, have made a

nurturing new and junior talent. So far this season

significant contribution to the team and it is hoped

24 players have represented the Corps in five

that we can get at least one of them vying for the

matches and the Inter Corps Championship. Of

Army team in the not too distant future.

those

individuals,

nine

made

their

directions.

However,

the Catterall

debut

appearance this year, and eight were junior ranks, a

With such a change, unfortunately results have not

significant increase on past seasons. Additionally,

been as good as last year when we won all our

despite ongoing operational commitments, there

matches. However, each match has been fiercely

has been representation from the vast majority of

competitive and our inexperienced players (a total

our units & HQs.

of 15 have played fewer than five matches for the Corps) have gained valuable matchplay experience.

Also, owing to work commitments, we sent an inexperienced

team

to

the

Inter

Corps

Championship; some other Corps are able to field two teams. Despite this, the junior players gained experience of competing at this significantly higher

level.

We have also organised our biennial overseas training camp. These camps provide a fantastic AAC vs DA Golf

66

opportunity for coaching and competitive games against different opposition on unfamiliar courses,

CORPS REPORTS Obviously, our season ended as we entered as the winter months and the committee started the planning and administration for next season.

We will play our usual fixtures in 2023 and continue to advertise and encourage attendance at the AGA events. Golf remains very expensive and we rely heavily on the financial support we receive from the AAC Corps fund. Especially for our younger SP, and to manage this year on year, we have increased the gap in subsidy between our junior and senior players to support those who need it most.

Batu caves

with vastly different challenges to UK courses. This year we played against the Malaysian Armed Forces Golf Association (MAFGA) and were superbly hosted

by the team, led by their Chair, Brig Gen Dato’ Hj Semaon bin Hj Marjuki (Comd of the Malaysian Defence Academy). We also played a local civilian

AAC members in Malaysia

team.

INFANTRY

By Capt Scott Dickinson Infantry Golf has seen several changes throughout

To start I would like to mention a few players that

2022 - both to the management and to the squad

have decided to leave the Army and will be a loss to

players. Through the year there have been limited

Infantry Golf. Gdsm Jordan Slater, Fus Lewis Philips

fixtures owing to the high tempo of the Infantry

and Cpl George Casserly, all Infantry golfers for

and

calendar;

several years and represented the Infantry in

however individual development again this year

individual matches, Inter Corps selections and at

has been at the forefront of Infantry Golf.

Army level. These players will be a big loss to

availability

within

a

proposed

Infantry Golf not just through their technical ability, Capt ‘Dicko’ Dickinson 1 LANCS has taken on the

but also through the friendship and personalities

reins of Infantry Golf from Capt Neil Williams. All at

that they brought to the squad. We wish them all

Infantry Golf would like to thank Neil for all his

the best. We have also lost Sgt Matty Bruce-Smith

efforts over the last few years, especially through

to the AGC (more to follow on Matty in this article).

the challenging time of lockdowns and restrictions.

The Infantry is in a good place and hopefully we can

Every year the Infantry tries to host several Inter

push on to further the successes seen in recent

Corps matches. This is not only to get the

years.

competitive golf under our belt, ready for the Inter

67

CORPS REPORTS Corps Championship at Saunton GC, but also to identify and develop talent from across the Infantry.

This year we were limited to two Inter Corps fixtures, mainly due to deployments, career courses and opponent availability. However, both matches saw

excellent

competition

and

new

talent

emerging.

Inf vs R Sigs - Belton Park GC - 7 Apr 22 The first match was not only a chance to select a few players that had come on the radar for the

Infantry, but also to get some competitive golf during the early part of the season. The morning fixtures were foursomes, and the Infantry went in to the afternoon singles 2-2. This was a chance to see 2Lt Dec Brady and LCpl Caspin Sandry come and play, playing off scratch and 1 respectively. Both played some unbelievable golf, Brady giving his opponent 14 shots and still winning 4&2, and Sandry giving his opponent 11 shots and narrowly losing 1 down. The Infantry unfortunately lost the match 6½ to 5½, but this was a great indication to

where Infantry golf is.

Inf vs RAC - Weymouth GC - 7 Sep 22

Inf Strokeplay & Stableford Champs - York GC reserve players. Outside of the main prize of being the Infantry Strokeplay Champion there were

The second Inter Corps fixture was again a chance

Individual

to see a few new players and to play in a

Stableford competitions running concurrently. The

competitive match. Rgr James Murphy, CSgt Andy

conditions for the 36 hole events were, at times,

Cromwell, and Capt Henry Kirkpatrick came in to

testing (to be polite), with only 1 player hitting par

their first matches following some great golf. The

or better. Bruce-Smith scored an unbelievable -5 on

format was 18 hole Matchplay, the team performed

the first day to take an 8 shot lead after day 1. Cpl

fantastically well and won the match 6-1. To note no

Steve Farnworth kindly donated a bottle on the bar

individual got beaten with 5 wins and 2 halves. Sgt

after a superb hole in one on day one. As he was the

Kyle Cooper came out with the best results, an

1st

emphatic 7&5 win, closely followed by Kirkpatrick

reverberating around the course, and the buzz of

with a 5&4 win. As always, WO2 Ian Mahan was the

the clubhouse for those yet to play changed with

driving force behind the team, and was thought to

the players itching to get out there. As mentioned,

be the ‘sacrificial lamb’ against Cpl Glen Watt (an

the conditions were challenging to say the least,

Army player off +4) but came out with a 3&2 win!

with only 17 golfers scoring in the 70s! However the

group

Stableford,

out,

we

Team

could

Gross,

hear

and

the

Team

cheers

leaderboard was tight and there could be many Inf Strokeplay & Stableford Champs - York GC -

changes on day 2. The whole field was chasing

30 Jun - 1 Jul 22

Bruce-Smith’s 8 shot lead, but the heavens decided to make it a little tougher with a continued

The flagship event of the Infantry golfing calendar

downpour, followed by high winds - perfect

is the Infantry Strokeplay Championships. The

conditions to go low!

course is a serene blend of parkland and heathland, known as a lowland heath style, and a challenging

Seasoned Infantry players LCpl Johnny Stevenson,

track for all levels of golfer. The event was

Farnworth, WO2 Gary Waugh, and Mahan even

supported by 76 Infanteers, including veterans and

struggled to set a score in the conditions. CSgt

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CORPS REPORTS Webb, Cromwell, and Murphy battled on day 2 to push themselves up the leaderboard. Ultimately the lead by Bruce-Smith was too big a gap to close and he was crowned Infantry Strokeplay Champion by a clear 9 strokes from Dickinson. A fitting result not just from his -5 first round score, but for an Infantry player that has been at the heart of Infantry success over the last 6 seasons winning his first & last

Infantry

Championship

as

he

has

been

successfully accepted for transfer to the AGC. We wish him all the very best and look forward to meeting him on the course as an opponent in the

near future.

Running concurrently to the Strokeplay are the Infantry Stableford Championship and the Infantry Gross & Stableford Team events. With a large field of 76 players this proved to be a highly competitive affair. The were some real high scores from some of the

higher

handicappers,

playing

the

tough

conditions within their abilities and using course management over distance, like some of us supposed ‘better’ golfers. There were seven players

that shot under their handicap over 36 holes, a

2Lt Dec Brady at Army vs RAF match

superb effort in the conditions. But again here was a runaway leader, Maj Jogendra Limbu, with an

make a 4th but limitations of numbers meant they

unassailable 88 points! Sgt Alan Hawthorne earned

were unable.

the well fought 2nd place with 81 points, with Capt ‘Doc’ Doherty coming 3rd with 80 points. There

This year the Infantry has continued to feed players

were only 7 points to separate 2nd – 12th place; just

towards Army representation. Again, Stevenson has

showing how competitive the standard was. A

represented the Army. New to being selected to

mention must go to Maj (Retd) Alan Wright playing

play

against some of these ‘ young uns’ earning himself

Farnworth, Brady, and Dickinson (who has also

a very credible 12th place finish. Alan has been

taken on the role of Army Development Officer).

played in this fixture too many times to mention,

The Infantry has continued to push to mentor

but has been quoted as saying “it’s about the

current talent and identify new talent. All the top

taking part, I’m too old to be competing now”. It

Infantry golfers also played in most of the AGA

for

the

Army

were

Cpl

Clinton

Prime,

seems Alan still has it and hopefully he can step it up for next year.

Another mention must go to those that travelled across from NI, a really strong cohort made the journey, and also went away with some of the prizes. 2 R IRISH were the winners of the Team Stableford competition with a total of 224 points,

beating 1 RANGERS into 2nd place with 213 point.

Both teams must be getting plenty of golf in over in NI! The Team Gross winners were 1 LANCS for the 2nd time in three years, narrowly beating MRTC by three strokes. Another mention must go to ITC who fielded three teams this year; they were going to

Infantry B team at the Inter Corps Championship

69

CORPS REPORTS events this year, with the Infantry A team being runners-up in the REME Shield. We hope that this year we can get more fixtures into the diary, and also as many players to all the AGA events supporting Army Golf as a whole and pushing the Infantry back towards challenging for titles.

The final mention must go to WO2 Ian Mahan. Ian has been involved in Infantry Golf for over 15 years, not just in a playing capacity but also as direct support to Captains, Secretaires, and committees over this period. He has seen transitional changes in

Infantry golf and sourced emerging talent and nurtured this to fruition in the last few years, where Infantry was the best team in the Army, and producing some of the best players in the Army set up. Ian has been at the forefront of this, he has seen Infantry Golf Captains come and go but has always been well placed as the 2IC to each and every one of them. Ian is due to leave the Army after 37 years Colour Service in the next few years and Infantry Golf is going to be up against it to find a replacement.

With his

constant

and devoted

support to Infantry Golf WO2 Ian Mahan was selected for a Life Time Achievement Award to Infantry Sport at this year’s Infantry Sports Awards.

We couldn’t be prouder to see him receive the recognition he deserves!

Life Time Achievement Award - WO2 Ian Mahan

R SIGNALS

By Capt Ash Ingham Royal Signals golf has gone from strength to

Inter Corps and Army Matchplay

strength throughout 2022. We have over 350 subscribers to our Corps Golf newsletter and have

In preparation for the Army Matchplay and Inter

had more than 120 golfers who have played in some

Corps Championships an excellent three day

form of Corps golf event last year – many of them

development golf event was arranged at Trevose

newcomers, which is extremely positive.

GC. The main aim of the event was to expose our better golfers (potential Corps team) to the rigours

Corps Matches

of links golf in a matchplay setting.

The Corps managed to play eight of the scheduled

The development event certainly achieved its aim,

ten Inter Corps matches throughout the season,

with the R Signals managing to field three teams in

winning four, losing two and drawing two. The

the Inter Corps Championship. All three teams

intent is to play similar events this year whilst

performed superbly well; however, they were

bringing more new players into the fold.

pipped at the post becoming runners-up in three

70

CORPS REPORTS

R Signals team at Kenilworth GC team competitions. More individual success was

Autumn Meeting - Ashley Wood GC - 21 Sep 22

achieved with Cpl Bisal Gurung winning the Army Matchplay Plate competition and Maj Om Pun

In total, 40 golfers attended what was a successful

winning the Keith Seddon Trophy. Well done!

event organised by SSgt Jim Reeves. There was some excellent scoring throughout the day with

Corps Championships

Cpl Bisal Gurung coming out on top in the scratch competition with a superb gross score of 68. This

A hugely successful competition with 90 golfers (3

was another successful event for Pace who was the

regulars and many newcomers) playing in the 2022

runner-up in both the Scratch competition (nett 72)

Corps Championships at The Ashley Wood GC,

and the Stableford competition (40 points).

Blandford. Lt Col (Retd) Bob Pace played some excellent golf and retained the Corps Individual Scratch

Trophy.

Capt

Ash

Ingham

won

Looking Forward

the

Handicap and Officer’s Trophy and the Inter Unit

Royal Signals golf is in an excellent place and has a

was contested amongst eight units, with 30 Sig

similar forecast for 2023. One of the key aims is to

Regt emerging victorious. Well done to not just the

further develop all golfers in the Corps and

winners,

and

hopefully go one better with a win at the Inter

supported the event. Finally, thanks must go to Lt

Corps Championships 2023. Looking slightly further

Col Mick Boyle, who this year organised his last of

afield, the Corps are in the early planning stages of

many Corps Championships before his retirement.

organising an OSV for 12 golfers to Turkey in 2024.

but

everyone

who

took

part

Ashley Wood GC - Corps Championship Winners

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