Through the Green 2023

GOLF

THROUGH THE

GREEN

The Off icial Journal of The Army Golf Association

4

19 th Hole

5

Chair’s Foreword

6

Major Events 2024

8

Strokeplay Championship

12

High Handicap Championship

15

Inter Unit Championship

19

Golf Skills Courses 24/25

20

Matchplay & Inter Corps Championships

32

Stableford Championship

36

Inter Regional Championship

39

Quill & Club Tournament

40

Ex GREEN FAIRWAY 23

44

Captain’s (Men) Report

47

Captain’s (Women) Report

50

Regional Reports

69

Corps Reports

The 19th Hole with the Editor Reflecting on the past golf season, I am blown away by the exhilarating journey it

has provided, brimming with excitement and development. Among the significant transformations we embraced was the renaming of Ladies Golf to Women's Golf, a symbolic shift reflecting the evolving inclusivity and recognition within the sport.

As the season unfolded, we welcomed a wonderful blend of returning golfers and keen newcomers, each one bringing their own flair and passion to the greens. Our fixtures calendar also saw the exciting addition of the Inter Corps league, a new initiative designed to foster competition and camaraderie among different Corps. The league's debut season was a success, drawing enthusiastic participation from teams and creating a vibrant atmosphere of teamwork and sportsmanship. Matches were highly competitive, with players showcasing their skills and determination in every game. The support from the community, along with the positive feedback from the participants, indicates that the Inter Corps league has quickly become a valued and eagerly-anticipated event on our fixtures calendar, setting a solid foundation for future seasons.

I would like to express my gratitude to the Regional and Corps Secretaries. Their continued commitment, dedication, countless hours of hard work, and unwavering support were key to delivering events and an excellent season.

I would also like to offer our sincere thanks to our Men's and Women's team Captains and their relevant committees. Their guidance, dedication, and tireless efforts in leading their teams and fostering a culture of excellence have been magnificent. It is through their vision and hard work that our teams have flourished, and our community has grown stronger.

With a new season ahead of us, let us continue to build on this momentum, keeping up the spirit of competition and aiming for even greater achievements. Here’s to a great season of golf!

4

CHAIR’S FOREWORD

CHAIR’S FOREWORD Brigadier Kieran Sheldon The Army teams started 2023 golf with the 2022 Inter Service Championships, which had to be delayed due to the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth. In a very tight competition throughout the Army teams worked hard and fought valiantly, but ultimately both men’s and women’s teams

were defeated by the Navy who won in both disciplines; a fantastic achievement for the Navy men’s team for whom this was their first victory in 17 years.

Keeping with recent tradition, the Strokeplay Championship was hosted at Belton Park Golf Club.

Once again, the course was presented in ideal condition with a fair but challenging set-up. Spr Graeme Torrie RE put in an excellent performance with a 2 under gross score across the 4 rounds, an

impressive 9 shots clear of the Army Captain and 2022’s champion, Capt Jack Musgrove RA. The second iteration of the UK Armed Forces Golf Association

Inter

Service

Development

Last year saw the further expansion of Army and

Championships saw the Army seek to defend their

Armed

event

title against stiffer competition, but a very strong

attendance, especially with respect to women’s golf

development team was able to successfully defend

at both levels. The increased participation at the

the championships. Back-to-back wins for the

Army Matchplay Championships, the expansion of

Army development team bodes well for the future

the women’s golf development programme and

of the Men’s Army team.

Forces

golf

competitions

and

the inclusion of the first mixed pairs event in the UK Armed Forces golf calendar. The most notable

In

success for Army golf last year was the Women’s

Championships returned to Saunton Golf Club. This

Army

team

regaining

the

Matchplay

and

Inter

Corps

Inter

Service

saw us play the 100th Army Championship, 13th

hard

fought

Army Ladies Championship and 49th Inter Corps

competition at the glorious Woodhall Spa golf club,

Championship. LCpl Thomas Sanghera REME and

home to England Golf.

Lt Col Alex O’Brien RLC were the eventual Men’s

Championships

crown

the

July

after

a

and Ladies winners and crowned Army Matchplay Right up front I would like to thank Captain Jack

Champions, a fitting way to end Lt Col Alex

Musgrove RA for his dedication, commitment and

O’Brien’s golfing career as a Regular (we hope she

enthusiasm as the Men’s Army Golf Captain for the

will return soon as a Reservist!). The Royal Signals A

last 5 years. During this period he has overseen

team came away victorious as the Inter Corps

significant changes to the development of the

Champions, defeating the Adjutant General Corps’

Army squad. He leaves the Army team in excellent

A team in a thrilling final. Another superb event,

condition as he hands over to Captain Scott

hosted at a wonderful golf club with whom our

Dickinson LANCS.

relationship continues to get stronger.

5

CHAIR’S FOREWORD

By September the Army teams were raring to take

Champions; 6 Regt RLC finished a valiant second.

on the other services also at the home of England

I must once again thank the Corps, Regimental

Golf, Woodhall Spa Golf Club. In a wonderful

and Regional Secretaries and their continued

competition at a globally renowned course, which

support and hard work that enables golf in the

is

the

Army to thrive. I again call upon them all to support

championship tees, the services once again did

rated

the

hardest

in

England

off

the AGA in identifying, attracting and developing

battle. The Army Men’s team fought valiantly but

players for a possible future Army team and in

were defeated by the RAF in their opening match,

spreading the word far and wide about the events

which proved critical when the RAF then also beat

that Army golfers can participate in.

the Royal Navy to take the championships. The Women’s team, however, were victorious in both

The sponsorship support being provided by Thales,

their matches and reclaimed the Inter Service

our headline sponsor, and Army Sport over this

Championships crown following a fabulous display

period has been invaluable and we remain very

of determination and teamwork.

grateful for it; without it we simply would not be able to deliver the events we do.

In the other events, the second iteration of the High Handicap Championship under the AGA, at Test

Steve Davis and Diane Walters continue to be the

Valley Golf Club, Cpl Hari Rai was victorious. He beat

driving force behind the AGA and all its great

LCpl Karl Straw by only 2 points to win with an

achievements, now supported incredibly well by

impressive 86 Stableford points from 2 rounds.

Jana Daniell. Thank you once again for delivering an array of wonderful events and supporting Army

The Stableford Championship was won by LCpl

Golfers everywhere.

Buluhang Rai in a much closer-fought event and the Regionals were won by the South East, pipping

Have a great winter, practice hard and get ready for

the Eastern region by a slender margin of 3 points.

another amazing season in 2024.

The Inter-unit event was won by the Gurkha ARRC Support

Bn,

making

them

back-to-back

unit

See you this year!

AGA MEMBERSHIP The AGA membership is open to all serving Army personnel; regular or reserve. It is also open to retired Army personnel, NRPS serving and retired, serving RN, RAF and overseas forces on Army Foundation Staffs, MOD(A) Civilians, Dependants (over the age of 18), and Spouses. It costs £15 per annum and runs from 1 Jan to 31 Dec (irrespective of joing date). Sign up here or renew your

existing membership through your membership record.

MAJOR EVENTS 2024 12 - 15 May 24

Matchplay Championship

Saunton GC

14 - 15 May 24

Women’s Matchplay Championship

Saunton GC

16 - 17 May 24

Inter Corps Championship

Saunton GC

22 May 24

High Handicap Championship

Test Valley GC

10 - 12 Jun 24

Inter Unit Championship

Catterick GC

8 - 10 Jul 24

Open Strokeplay Championship

Belton Park GC

5 - 7 Aug 24

Open Stableford Championship

Whittington Heath GC

3 - 4 Sep 24

Inter Regional Championship

Worksop GC

9 - 12 Sep 24

Inter Service Championships (Army lead)

Formby GC

3 Oct 24

Quill & Club Tournament

Mill Ride GC

6

STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP

STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP It was a pleasure once again to return to one of the

fairways adding to the protection of the course. The

best parkland courses in Lincolnshire, Belton Park

rough was starting to lengthen, and players

GC, for the AGA Strokeplay Championship. We are

realised very quickly that this was not somewhere

extremely grateful for the kind generosity of our

you wanted to be. With freshly cut and ironed

sponsors: Thales as our Headline sponsor, BT who

greens a stern test beckoned.

have been working with us to provide a more digitised approach to running our events, Heckler &

The weather on day one was clear but there was a

Koch for donating the new officials’ apparel for the

distinct chill in the air and overnight moisture on

coming season and finally to Comms Spec for

the course meant a loss of distance on both the tee

providing their radio systems for use throughout

and second shots. As the morning progressed and

our events.

the sun burned off the morning dew, the course firmed up and the greens became gettable for

Belton Park GC has hosted the AGA Stableford

those who could remain on the fairways. It certainly

Championship in the recent past but this was a first

paid to have a later tee time. With a field of 72 the

for the Strokeplay. The course was in excellent

main competition was played off the white tees,

condition with the first and second cuts and narrow

which measured 6490 yards; the par was 71 with a

slope rating of 122.

Scoring in the first round proved to be a challenge with only one player breaking par and another posting level par. The clubhouse leader was the current Army Vice Captain, Sgt Richie Over RE (1) on 69, 2-under par, followed closely by another Army team regular LCpl Alex Matthews RE (2) on 71, level Par, and then two on +1 sat in third, Cpl Glen Watt RAC (+4) and Spr Graeme Torrie RE (+3). Then in fifth place was SSgt Gaz Gurung RE (+1) on 73.

As the players headed into Round 2 it was clear anything other than a straight drive hitting the fairway was going to make scoring very difficult.

The second cut was sufficient to cause many a problem and anything wayward had the potential to wreck a scorecard, but as the weather turned warmer there was plenty of opportunity to post a good score.

Steady play and staying on the short stuff proved to be the way to go with Torrie, carding an excellent 5

under 66, to take him to the top of the leaderboard after two rounds on 138. Watt posted a decent 72, to Cpl Glen Watt RAC

8

move him into second place on an aggregate 141.

Matthews maintained his consistency with another

STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP level par round but this saw him slip a place to third on 142. The first round leader Over, dropped off the pace a little with a 4 over 75. but WO2 Kerry Roberts RA ended the day on 146 after a commendable 72, just behind him on 148 was the 2022 Champion Maj Jack Musgrove RA. So, after two rounds the leaderboard saw Torrie, Watt, Matthews and Over forcing the pace, but with Roberts and Musgrove close enough to make a move during round three.

Day two started warm and sunny and as the course

basked in sunshine 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.

Round three followed a similar pattern to rounds one and two with some struggling to cope with the conditions particularly as the wind had picked up a little. That said though, those who had found their groove,

were

making

things

happen.

Mental

resilience is vitally important and with everyone feeling the strain of the 10 hours of play on day one only the strongest were going to post a decent score. With 10 strokes separating the top 5 players it was all to play for and as the golf course tightened its hold on the field only the best players managed to hold their own. Torrie set about increasing his

SSgt Gaz Gurung RE

lead and Matthews, Watt, Over, Roberts and Musgrove all looked to make a charge.

Stableford. Within this field were some seriously good golfers eleven of whom were playing off a

As the third round unfolded it seemed only a

handicap of five or better.

collapse of “McIlroy Masters proportions” would see Torrie not see this through to the close. Noticeable

Round one saw four under par scores; Sjt Joshua

scores from round three: Torrie pushed on with a 1

Lucas INF 40 pts, WO1 John Butler RLC and Sgt

under 70 as did Musgrove; Matthews dropped his

Brett Evans AMS on 38 pts and CSjt Yambahadur

first shot with a 1 over 72 along with Over, LCpl Tom

Gurung RCAM on 37 pts. Then followed 3 on level

Sanghera REME and Lt Declan Brady INF. Round

par so there were several players capable of making

three closed with Torrie still out in front on 208,

a move in the afternoon round.

some 6 shots clear of Matthews on 214. Over was still hanging on with 216, closely followed by

Both Butler and Lucas continued their hot streak

Musgrove on 218.

from the morning round by following up with scores of 42 and 40 pts respectively. Then followed

Whilst all the action unfolded from the first tee in

Sgt Sean Beswick RA and WO1 Paul Gardiner REME

the main championship, on the 10th tee the

on 38 pts and Sgt Roman Rai RLC, Maj John Price

Stableford competition was underway for all those

AGC (SPS) and SSgt Chris Rosie RE on 37 pts. So,

who missed the cut which was set at 159 last year.

after two rounds we had a combined score of 80

43 players teed off in the 36-hole handicap

pts taking first place, although this would be

9

STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP The Championship leader just had to play a steady round without pushing it and with his closest opposition in the same flight starting to fall off the pace he was able to control the match from the front. After shooting the best round four score of 71, Watt must have been cursing his poor showing in the third round (I’m sure his time will come in future years). With a 9 shot lead though I have no doubt Torrie’s walk up the 18th was made that much easier. The top scores of the final round saw Watt on 71, Musgrove on 73, WO2 Ian Mahan INF, Sgt Matt Bruce-Smith AGC (SPS), Torrie and Capt Neil Williams INF all shooting 74.

As with all sporting events there can only be one winner, last year other than the golf course, that appeared to beat most of the players, it was Spr Stableford Handicap Winner - WO1 J Butler

Graeme Torrie RE, who won through with an impressively consistent performance of 2 under gross, and with scores of 72, 66, 70, and 74 totalling

decided on count back, with Butler taking the

282. 9-shots behind in second place was Maj Jack

spoils over Lucas. Scores of 72 pts for Gurung Y, and

Musgrove RA, who just came up short after putting

71 pts for Lt Col Stuart Campbell AMS and Evans

up a strong defence of his title with scores of 74, 74,

closed out the top 5.

70 and 73 totalling 291. The next 3 places making up

the top five saw Matthews on 292, Over on 293 and Back to the main event and with still gathering

Watt on 294. The standard of golf played by the top

momentum, round four saw a resurgent Musgrove

groups was without doubt impressive. The Army is

hitting 3 birdies over the opening holes to start a

awash with strong, young talent which bodes well

charge up the leaderboard, at a time when Torrie

for the Army team

was starting to drop shots, even though the

competition in the top AGA Championships fierce.

in

general and

making

reigning champion had left himself quite the hill to climb he had the game to achieve it.

The course set up was fair but challenging. Lush fairways, sometimes narrow in places, a second cut to challenge the very best, rough to avoid at all costs and firming greens all made for a perfectly presented course worthy of such a prestigious Army Championship.

Our sincere thanks go to the club Chairman, Andy Hodgson, the Captain, Bruce MacFarland, and the Committee. To the General Manager Ed Faulkner, the Course Manager, Lee Carratt, and the Head Professional, Shay Brennan. And last but certainly not least to all staff and members of Belton Park Golf Club for allowing the AGA to hold this Championship at their course and for making us all feel so welcome over the course of the three days.

The course was presented in such excellent condition. For the future Belton Park has kindly Senior Winner - WO2 K Roberts

10

agreed to host the 2024 Championship later in the season in July and we have booked to return in

STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP 2027 in our usual May slot. 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 2023 and to Army Sport for their support.

The 2024 AGA Strokeplay Championship will take place at Belton Park Golf Club over the period 8 – 10 Jul 2024. AGA members should note that this is a mixed competition open to ALL members of the AGA with the field limited to max 72 players; all

interested in playing whatever handicap should enter.

Strokeplay Runner-Up - Maj J Musgrove

L: Strokeplay Champion - Spr G Torrie R: Handicap Champion - LCpl A Matthews KEY RESULTS Strokeplay Champion

Spr Graeme Torrie RE 282

Runner-Up

Maj Jack Musgrove RA 291

Handicap Champion

LCpl Alex Matthews RE 286

Senior Winner

WO2 Kerry Roberts RA 297

Stableford Handicap Winner

WO1 John Butler RLC 80 pts OCB

11

HIGH HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP

HIGH HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP As the most junior of the AGA competitions, the High Handicap Championship was brought under the banner of the AGA for the first time in 2022.

Previously the event was coordinated by Lt Col Richard Sanders AGC (SPS), a former Regional and

Corps Secretary. Now in its second year under the watchful eye of the AGA, we are pleased to announce that entries remain on an upward trajectory and our aim is to reach maximum participation (c66 entries) in line with all other AGA Championship events. Last year we achieved almost 50% of our aiming mark; a field of one woman and 30 men played 36 holes off the yellow and red tees. Flights were sent out in four balls at 8 minute intervals, so the pace of play was key to the success of the day. With a little supervision all

flights pushed on and play flowed nicely with all groups through 18 in just under 4¼ hours.

Cpl Gary Taylor

We were once again hosted by Test Valley Golf Club (TVGC), a venue used periodically by the South East region and therefore was familiar to a few of the competitors. The course is based on chalk and so drains well and with little water on the course it seems a popular choice as a host venue.

The Championship is played over two rounds in one day. This was a first for many in the field, and mental, as well as physical, fatigue affected some.

Whilst the course was a little forgiving in places, the rough was high and the greens were quickening, having been cut and rolled prior to play. It achieved

all we set out for – a fair but stern test. The tee boxes were set up as they would be for all Maj Sue McFarlane

12

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

HIGH HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP and then introduced on the tee. For some, this added an extra layer of stress to the first shot of the day but again, it added to the experience.

The AGA committee selected the date well, as the course was bathed in sunshine and with minimal wind as the players arrived; this was to remain throughout the day and bode well for some good scoring opportunities. As the morning wore on the temperature rose, as did the standard of golf. There was plenty of good ball striking and whilst the run out may have been less than in the height of the summer,

the

slightly

slower

greens

gave

confidence for them to be attacked. This was clearly evident from the morning round scores. The clubhouse leader was Capt James Flood (26) on 45 pts, in second place was LCpl Karl Straw (22) on 43 pts, closely followed by Cpl Hari Rai (20) on 41 pts in third. In fourth place on 39 pts was SSgt David Whitwham (26), followed by WO2 Lee Wright (28) on 38 pts in fifth place. Then came two on 37 pts and four on 36 pts. So, with the top 10 players all

LCpl Ben Lee

scoring upward of 36 pts, the afternoon round would be all about consistency and who would be

With temperatures dropping and the sun hiding

able to hold their nerve and concentration best

behind a layer of cloud during the early afternoon,

in round 2.

some great drives were to be hit, none more so than the shot of the day when Cpl Hari Rai almost drove the green on the Par 4, 6th.

The standard of play across the board, belied many a handicap, with several of the players on a downward trajectory in terms of the standard of their game. It was likely their handicap would reduce once Club Systems had recorded the scores overnight – after all this was the purpose of this event, and certainly a proportion of the field may not qualify for next year’s competition. Of course, there is always the Stableford event at Whittington Heath GC at the beginning of August for them to pit their wits against some of our more established players. As one door closes, another opens.

Round 2 was closed with Rai improving on his morning round to card a very impressive 45 pts, next up was Wright, also improving on his morning score with 44 pts, followed in 3rd was Cpl Gary Taylor on 42 pts, and Straw on 41 pts. Then two

were tied on 39 pts and a further 5 tied on 37 pts.

WO2 Marcus Murcott

Three of the morning’s top five made it into the prizes at the close of play with WO2 Marcus Murcott

13

HIGH HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP climbing into the top 5 with two steady rounds of

the field of players year on year. Special thanks

golf. As always there can only be one winner and

must go to the AGA officials Diane Walters and

Rai managed to piece together two excellent

Jana Daniell for administering and running the

rounds of consistent golf of 41 & 45 pts. Assuming

event in their usual professional and tireless

his golf will only get better, it is unlikely that he will

manner both at the event and back in the office.

be unable to defend his title next year.

Finally, the AGA is eternally grateful to Thales as the AGA headline sponsor for 2023.

Our sincere thanks go to Alastair Briggs, the Club General Manager, Maria McKenzie, the Events

The 2024 AGA High Handicap Championship will

Organiser, and staff and members of Test Valley

take place back at Test Valley Golf Club on Wed 22

Golf Club for allowing the AGA to hold this

May 24. AGA members should note that this is a

Championship on their course and for presenting

mixed competition open to ALL members of the

the course in such excellent condition. Going

AGA with the field limited to approximately 42

forward, TVGC has kindly agreed to host this event

players; all interested in playing whatever handicap

for the next 5 years and to work with us to increase

should enter.

High Handicap Champion - Cpl Hari Rai Inf

KEY RESULTS High Handicap Champion

Cpl Hari Rai Inf 86 pts

Runner-Up

LCpl Karl Straw RLC 84 pts

Third Place

WO2 Lee Wright REME 82 pts

Fourth Place

Capt James Flood RE 81 pts

Fifth Place

WO2 Marcus Murcott AGC 75 pts

14

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP Last year saw the Inter Unit move back to Catterick Golf Club after a break of four years (2 years not played due to COVID) and there was a reasonable turn-out of 14 teams. Each team comprised 3 players (with one reserve if nominated) with the

format of a 36-hole team Stableford qualifying competition on the first day. On day two, the top four

teams

progressed

into

the

Matchplay

Championship, the next four into the Plate and the remainder played a 27-hole team Stableford event.

The course was presented beautifully on day one with the greens staff giving the greens a double cut just to make things interesting.

Usually, it would be fair to say that the weather in

Catterick is a “couple of overcoats colder” than our office location in the South of England but not last year. Day one opened with clear blue skies and

CSgt Bikash Gurung

temperatures well into the twenties before anyone had even teed off. Umbrellas were up all over the course by mid-morning but last year this was to prevent sun stroke rather than a good drenching!

With handicaps from 4 to 25 throughout the field, and the golf course providing a stern test for any player, scoring well was always going to be a challenge. That said, there were some credible scores submitted and leading the way at lunchtime with 38pts was WO2 Bhim Kumar Garbuja 3 PWRR

(A), followed by Sgt Nabin Limbu 1 RGR and Cpl Raju Tamang 3 PWRR (A) on 37pts. As most cards

Cpl Craig McCreath

laid testament to, the front 9 was definitely a tougher test than the back.

15

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP After a great lunch it was back out and now the phrase “only mad dogs and Englishmen…..” was at the forefront of most players’ minds. Despite the increasing temperatures and ever-present stiff breeze, four players still managed to break par; Capt Prem Gurung 1 RGR achieving a very impressive 40pts, followed by LCpl Bishal Rai 9 Regt RLC and Cpl Surya Gurung 3 PWRR (B) on 37pts and Sgt Nabin Limbu 1 RGR on 36pts. Another 11 players managed 30pts or better despite the course doing its best to derail them. This was all the more impressive by virtue of the fact that only 11 in total had managed the same in the morning.

The undulating fairways, changes in elevation and sloping greens certainly make for a stern test of golf but if nothing else, from certain parts of the course, the views are indeed “beautiful”.

Cpl Liam Whitbread

The best of the overall individual standings from day one were:

Plate Competition: Capt P Gurung (9) – 1 RGR – 74pts

3 PWRR (B) vs 156 Regt RLC

Sgt N Limbu (10) – 1 RGR – 73pts

9 Regt RLC vs 39 Engr Regt

WO2 B Garbuja (15) – 3 PWRR (A) – 69pts Cpl R Tamang (7) – 3 PWRR (A) – 68pts

With the teams drawn and, in a bid to ensure

Sgt P Tamang (4) – 39 Engr Regt – 66pts

everyone could get away at a reasonable time, an early start beckoned on day two. The course was a

Team scores from the qualifying competition:

hive of activity as we arrived at the start of the day

1 RGR

203

with the greenkeepers preparing the course. But

3 PWRR (A)

188

the conditions were a bit different to day one; not

Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn

174

yet up was the sun and the morning dew was

6 Regt RLC

173

certainly going to test the waterproofing on some

3 PWRR (B)

170

of the players’ shoes.

9 Regt RLC

170

39 Engr Regt

169

As planned, all the matches were to be played from

156 Regt RLC

164

the 1st and the Stableford from the 10th. Those

SASC

163

playing in the Stableford were certainly warmed up

ATC Pirbright

163

by the time they got up to the 10th after their

29 Regt RLC (A)

147

sojourn up “Heartbreak Hill” with a vow to “play

8 Trg Bn

135

better next year” and get into the Matchplay to

29 Regt RLC (B)

133

avoid the climb. The 10th is a tough opening hole

1 IG

126

and even the best-looking tee shots from the tee can take a massive kick into the unknown, where

The draw for day two semi-finals in the two

lions, tigers and bears feared to tread. All this aside,

Matchplay competitions saw:

the six teams in the Stableford teed off in buoyant mood.

Main Championship: 1 RGR vs 6 Regt RLC

By the time everyone teed off, the sun was back in

3 PWRR (A) vs Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn

earnest, and it looked set to be another glorious day.

16

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP Out in the Plate semi-finals were 3 PWRR (B) vs 156

LSgt Stephen Wilson of 1IG who didn’t really

Regt RLC and 9 Regt RLC vs 39 Engr Regt. After

perform to his potential in the opening rounds but

what seemed like no time a smiling Sgt Prem

smashed the last 9, coming in with 20 points (just 1

Tamang of 39 Engr Regt came in to report a 7&6

less than he scored over 18 holes in the morning).

win in his match against SSgt Bipendra Rai

Special mention should also go to Mr Wilson (LSgt

Lingkha. Fairly shortly afterward he was followed in

Wilson’s dad and caddy) who managed to keep

by Cpl Surya Gurung of 3 PWRR (B) who won his

some of his hair!

match against WO2 Rob Delamar MBE, 6&5. We had to wait quite a while though for the remaining

With the Stableford done and dusted, all attention

results which saw 3 PWRR (B) win their remaining

now turned to the matches on the course, and first

two matches in very close fought battles: 1Up and

the Plate; 3 PWRR (B) and 9 Regt RLC had scored

2Up.

the same points in the qualifying rounds so it was expected that their matches were going to be

Despite the easy win of Sgt Prem Tamang, 39 Engr

tight. So it proved with Cpl Surya Gurung and WO2

Regt couldn’t find the other point they needed,

Arjun Rai of 3 PWRR (B) winning their matches 2&1

and 9 Regt RLC claimed their place in the final

over SSgt Bipendra Rai Lingkha and Sgt Dhanraj

alongside 3 PWRR (B) with individual match wins

Limbu. LCpl Bishal Rai of 9 Regt RLC though was

of 3&2 and 2&1.

determined not to lose all three points and ground out a 3&2 victory over Sgt Aash Bahadur Gurung.

Back to the Stableford and the morning round where CSgt Sarbajit Jugjali of ATC Pirbright shot a

To the main final then and the very much favoured

superb 40 points leaving the rest of the field

Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn went out hard with Sgt Suresh

scrambling with only 5 players being able to card

Ale Magar sealing an easy win over SSgt David

30pts or better. It was heating up weatherwise

Whitwham 6&5 who surely had given his all in the

though so perhaps better scores were coming our

morning round. It is worth noting here that two of

way in the final 9 holes.

the 6 Regt RLC team were playing in the High Handicap Championship just a few weeks ago and

The first of the main semi-finals saw 6 Regt RLC

that last year they were runners up in the Reserve

take on the might of 1 RGR, the latter having looked

Championship. For them then to be battling it out

very impressive in the qualifying rounds. The “men

for the Inter Unit Championship is testament to

in

hard work and determination they have put in over

green”,

as

6

Regt

RLC

have

become

affectionately known, certainly looked like the

the last 12 months.

underdogs on paper.

The 3rd match out was LCpl Liam Whitbread of 6 The second of the main semi-finals was an all

Regt RLC vs Cpl Rishikesh Sen. Whitbread would

Gurkha affair with 3 PWRR (A) taking on the

be the first to admit that he had not had the best

reigning Champions, Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn. This

of starts in the Championship, but he took an early

looked to be a very closely matched battle and so it

lead in his match and despite Sen pulling back a

proved when Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn just managed a

couple of holes, Whitbread held on to win 2Up.

2-1 win with individual match wins of 3&2 and 1Up. Only WO2 Netra Rai managed to get a win for his

Now the focus moved to Cpl Sean Byrne (6 Regt

team, beating CSgt Bikash Gurung, 3&2.

RLC) and CSgt Bikash Gurung who hitherto had been going about their business just under the

After 27 holes of Stableford, we had our Reserve

radar with only ever one or two holes between

Champions but before we get to that there are a

them. Gurung sunk a great putt on 16 to halve the

couple of people worthy of note: Capt Andy Corke

hole

of 29 Regt RLC (A) who scored an impressive 18

Unfortunately for Byrne, he pushed his approach

points in his final nine holes; WO2 Dave Smith of 29

and he had a devilish chip back which he made,

Regt RLC (B) who, by the time he had climbed the

but he had left himself a tough putt. Gurung once

hill to the 10th for the 2nd time, was well and truly

again showed his putting prowess and took the

questioning why he had agreed to play and finally,

hole before Byrne had a chance to sink his. After 2

which

meant

Byrne

teed

off

17

1Up.

17

INTER UNIT CHAMPIONSHIP days it came down to one hole. A half would force a playout, a win for either would secure the Inter Unit Championship and probably one of the most impressive trophies in Army sport. Despite his best efforts, Byrne couldn’t close out the match and Gurung’s putting didn’t let him down when it mattered, and he won the match 1Up. Huge congratulations go to all the players who fought hard over the two days for their units. The AGA continues to make it a priority to grow this event and welcomes entries from all units able to field a team of 3; male, female, or mixed.

As always, we convey our most sincere thanks to our sponsors, without whom we would be unable to run these events so to Thales, our headline sponsor, Comms Spec (comms supplier) and Army

PLATE WINNERS

Sport (grant support), thank you!

3 PWRR (B) WO2 Arjun Rai

And, finally our most sincere thanks to Catterick

Sgt Aash Bahadur Gurung

Golf Club and its members and Committee for

Cpl Surya Gurung

allowing us to take great chunks of their tee times over the two days. The course was presented in

KEY RESULTS

great condition, and we were looked after superbly by the Club Secretary Shireen Rudge, James Wallace, and his staff in the pro shop, and last but

Winners

CSgt Bikash Gurung

by no means least by Penny Bernhardt and her

Sgt Suresh Ale Magar

staff in the bar with special mention to Thierry who provided the catering and probably some of the best chips ever!

Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn

Cpl Rishikesh Sen Runners-Up

6 Regt RLC SSgt David Whitwham Cpl Sean Byrne LCpl Liam Whitbread

Plate Winners

3 PWRR (B) WO2 Arjun Rai Sgt Aash Bahadur Gurung Cpl Surya Gurung

Plate Runners Up

9 Regt RLC SSgt Bipendra Rai Lingkha Sgt Dhanraj Limbu LCpl Bishal Rai

Reserve Winners

ATC Pirbright CSgt Sarbajit Jugjali Cpl Hari Rai Cpl Benoy Gurung

RESERVE WINNERS

ATC Pirbright

29 Regt RLC (A)

CSgt Sarbajit Jugjali

Capt Andy Corke

Cpl Hari Rai

Capt Steve Francis

Cpl Benoy Gurung

18

Reserve Runners-Up

WO1 Shaun Goldsborough

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 The Army Golf Championships are the blue riband

After a day of gale-force winds, albeit in bright

event in the Army Golf calendar and have a

sunshine, the match-day weather appeared to

permanent

The

favour the AGA as the wind dropped, the sun

Championships took place from 9 to 12 Jul; they

shone, and the team was in high spirits looking

comprise the individual Matchplay event, both Male

forward to potentially posting a good score to

and Female and the Inter Corps tournament. The

reverse

event was generously sponsored by Army Sport; the

enthusiasm quickly waned as the Saunton team

AGA is indebted to them for their invaluable

got off to a firing start that proved too good to claw

support, and to Thales as headline sponsor of the

back. Although it should be noted that while the

AGA once again. We were especially pleased that

final score did appear to suggest a royal drumming,

BT, which has been working behind the scenes on

the vast majority of the matches were a close-run

our competition IT systems, was able to visit, and

thing. At the end of the day, golf and the friendship

Christopher Ward, the watch manufacturer, who

between our two organisations were the only

could not visit but has agreed to provide some

winners. With little time to spare following the

watches as prizes for our major events. I also have

completion of the last match, it was a quick wash

to say the officials looked particularly smart in their

and brush up and in for dinner with the AGA as the

new polos provided by Heckler and Koch.

host. Overall, the day was a huge success and a

base

at

Saunton

Golf

Club.

recent

defeats.

Unfortunately,

the

fitting celebration to mark such a landmark event Following a very successful 125th anniversary match

and occasion in the club’s history.

last year, the AGA was able to celebrate its own anniversary – the 100th Matchplay Championship

It

and the 17th consecutive year at Saunton. Alas, not

Championships in its original format with all the

much changed over the interim year as the AGA

embellishments that make the event truly special.

received another lesson in how to play the East

We are delighted to announce that Saunton has

Course; in doing so, we took a humbling 7-2

agreed to host the Championships for another five

thrashing.

years, for which we are eternally thankful .

20

was

good

to

be

back

and

running

the

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

100TH MATCHPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP For the first time in several years the Championship

difficulty

to

‘brutal’

with

many

in

the

field

was less than full on the final day for entry, a sign of

questioning their sanity in signing up for three days

the challenging times the Army is experiencing in

of golf in such conditions. This was a links course

the backdrop of the events around the world. We

with teeth and there was likely only going to be one

did have 100 players for the 100th Championship,

winner. Long irons were definitely the way forward,

which was fitting for such an occasion, but there

those who let the driver loose were more often than

was every chance there would be the odd drop out

not hitting three of six off the tee.

the closer we got to day one.

With no shocks of note in the qualifiers, day one of So, with the inevitable dropouts on day one, as luck

the main event commenced with overcast sky and

would have it the AGA Chair was itching to get out

a stiff onshore breeze. Second out leading from the

on the course, and it didn’t take much persuading

front was the AGA Chair, Col Kieran Sheldon RA

for him to step into the breech when the

who, against the sweep from the committee,

opportunity

the

managed to win through to the second round.

Championship got underway in full sunshine and

arose.

With

a

full

field

Notable scores saw Cpl Glen Watt RAC win 7&6, as

with a gentle breeze. Unfortunately, this was not to

did WO2 Kerry Roberts RA. Pte Carl Gelder AGC

last as within an hour or two of the first tee time the

won 7&5. There was a number of 6&5 and 6&4 wins,

weather changed to horizonal driving rain of

with five needing 19th and 20th holes to find a

biblical proportions. The course became brutal for

winner. The weather all morning appeared for

the next hour, then as is always the case in this

some to be unplayable with many of the newly

coastal area, the clouds blew over and the sun

purchased TaylorMade TP5s settling deep into the

returned for the remainder of the day. The Sunday

rough for others to retrieve.

Qualifying competition got under way with a field of 69 players having to qualify and 3 byes. This

SSgt Chris Rosie RE secured victory with an

would leave a full field of 64 to start day one on

impressive 31 scratch pts, while Capt Steve Johnson

Monday. The winners went into the main draw with

AMS claimed the second spot with 28 scratch pts.

the top 16 (in seeding order based on their scratch

Sgt Bhupal Gurung R Sigs and Cpl Ryan Moore

Stableford scores). The unfortunate losers went on

REME closely followed with 27 scratch pts each,

to compete in a scratch Stableford competition on

trailed by LCpl Cameron Weir RLC, WO1 Steve

Mon 10 Jul in the hope of qualifying for the Reserve

Canning REME, Cpl George Dickinson REME, and

Championship event, the Keith Seddon Trophy.

Maj Charles O’Shea RA, all tallying 25 scratch pts.

Only the top 16 scratch Stableford scores would get

The remaining competitors trailed slightly further

into that event.

behind, ranging from 24 to 14 pts, a testament to both the challenging conditions and the course's

The cut for automatic qualification into the main

toughness.

event was made at 3.0 whilst the highest handicap overall was 12.9. Some of the more established

With no change to the conditions in the afternoon

Army players were unfortunately not able to enter

all was set for a long day with the last flight setting

owing to work, operational commitments and

off at 1637hrs, albeit the rain had abated for a

courses. Lt Col Bob Pace (former Army Captain),

couple of hours. The 2022 Army Champion, Spr

Maj Jack Musgrove (Army Captain), WO2 Chris

Graeme Torrie RE, continued his charge with a

Bradley and Sgt Richie Over were away in Finland

convincing 8&7 win demonstrating how to play in

at the European Masters Games where they

true links conditions, whilst hardly dropping a shot.

collected a combined 6 medals; two Gold, three

Sheldon set the pace against a potential semi-

silver, and one bronze.

finalist, Watt, but any thoughts he had of making it

through to the later stages were shortlived once The course was as ever, in excellent condition with

Watt woke up and got a hold of the match. Credit

testing rough awaiting those who strayed off the

should

beaten track. The weather elevated the levels of

succumbed to lose 4&3.

go to Sheldon though as

he

finally

21

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS Notable results saw Torrie win through with a comfortable win, a display of championship links play; other Army players easing through the afternoon were LCpl Tom Sanghera REME and Capt Danny Saunders AGC both taking easy routes through with 5&4 victories. SSgt Adam Hayward RA and

LCpl

Johnny

Stevenson

Inf

played

out

a head-to-head with Hayward winning 1Up. In the other side of the draw SSgt Gaz Gurung RE, last year’s semi-finalist, eased through with a 7&6 win, Capt Tom Clarke REME and SSgt Somras Tamang R Sigs both had comfortable victories 5&4 and 4&2 respectively. Capt Neil Williams RA managed a 3&1

win, whilst Roberts scraped through on the 18th 2Up after a strong performance from Cpl James Watson AGC. ‘The blowing of the cheeks as he sunk the final putt’ summed up the day. Cpl Steven Farnworth Inf succumbed to Maj Om Pun R Sigs 5&4. Finally, Capt Kenny Wilson RLC battled hard to the end winning 2Up taking the match to the 19th.

TUESDAY STABLEFORD WINNER CSjt Yambahadur Gurung RCAM

The last in the field was Sgt Matthew Bruce-Smith AGC closing the day with a 4&3 victory. Play closed at 2040hrs with the light fading quickly and the rain continuing to fall; we just managed to avoid

(Mon pm), those who did not qualify to play in the

rolling into day two.

Keith Seddon Trophy (Mon am) and travelling reserves when we have them. Scores on the whole

In the Plate competition, the Denton Salver trophy,

were pretty average with only CSjt Yambahadur

held for the first-round losers from the main

Gurung

Championship, there were no clear favourites given

Dickinson Inf came in close second on 35 pts,

the high standard of golfers in the competition.

followed by 3 players on 34pts. CSjt Yambahadur

Sadly, WO2 Jason Moore AGC had to withdraw

Gurung RCAM is the 2023 Mickey Bryant Memorial

through injury, from a misspent youth playing too

Trophy winner.

RCAM

shooting

36

pts.

Capt

Scott

much football. This left Lt Harry Owen REME with a walkover into round two. Notable scores from

As the afternoon of day two unfolded, the quarter-

round one were: 8&6 win for Cpl Prem Bahadur

finals

Gurung R Sigs, 6&5 win for Capt Anthony Parkinson

Championship witnessed some of the Army’s finest

REME, and 6&4 win for WO1 Steffan Gibbs R Sigs. Lt

talents and potential Inter Service team members

Col Stuart Campbell AMS had won through, and he

pitted against each other. Watt had a great tussle

had high hopes of reaching the final. All was set for

with Sanghera, but eventually succumbed 1Up. It

an intriguing day two and the hope of a more

will only be a matter of time before Watt steps up.

friendly weather system passing though Devon.

Torrie, the reigning 2023 Strokeplay Champion and

commenced

in

earnest.

The

main

defending Champion, secured victory by closing Day two morning session of the main event saw

out the match against Capt Sanjeev Rai R Sigs with

Watt out first again, this time against Saunders, in

a 2&1 triumph on the 17th. N Williams beat last

what was thought to be a tough match on paper

year’s finalist G Gurung 2&1; they scored 4 birdies

but turned out to be less so as Watt eased through

between them in the four holes leading to the 17th

with a 6&5 win.

where G Gurung missed the green left, leaving a

horrible chip from the thick rough. The bogey Tuesday also brought the first handicap Stableford

sealed victory for Williams. Finally, Bruce-Smith

(Mickey Bryant Memorial Salver) for those who are

wore down Roberts to a 3&2 win to set up the four

knocked out of the Main and Plate Championships

Army players in the semi-finals.

22

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS pts, Capt Carl Wray REME on 35 pts, three players on 34 pts and five on 33 pts. SSgt Narayan Thapa AGC is the 2023 Bartley/Taylor Trophy winner.

In the semi-final of the Keith Seddon Trophy Weir beat Pearson 2&1, and Canning beat Stephens 3&1.

The Plate Championship got underway with M Rai beating Thapa Magar 3&2. In the other semi-final match Anand A took on P Gurung, but this was a match too far. Anand and P Gurung took a comfortable win 6&4.

The main semi-final saw last year’s Champion Torrie

up against Sanghera. Both players had been having very successful seasons to this point with Torrie seeking a double of Strokeplay and Matchplay trophies in the same year, having won the Strokeplay earlier in the year. Both players were playing some outstanding golf hitting the ball a WEDNESDAY STABLEFORD WINNER SSgt Narayan Thapa AGC

country mile with a high degree of precision, but Sanghera was not to be overshadowed and fought hard against a formidable opponent. After taking the initiative throughout the middle of the match

The last of the three quarter-finals, the Keith

he started to put pressure on Torrie taking what

Seddon Trophy, saw Weir, WO1 Jay Pearson RE, Maj

turned out to be an unassailable lead. He held firm

Ben Stephens Int Corps and Canning all reach the

coming down the stretch, eventually taking the

semi-finals, some had easier routes through than

match with a very credible 4&3 win.

others, particularly Stephens following his 7&5 win.

The second of the main semi-finals saw Neil Wednesday morning started with a torrential

Williams up against fellow Army Player Matt Bruce-

downpour that lasted 30 min, but once it finished

Smith. However, Matt, the reigning Dorset County

the air cleared and the day changed to bright

Champion, was just too good on the day and ran

sunshine. Unfortunately for the players the wind

out with an easy win of 5&4, to set up a final

remained as strong as had been experienced all

between two new finalists.

week;

at

least

they

were

acclimatised!

The semi-finals of the Keith Seddon Trophy teed off at 0730hrs, followed by the Plate (Denton Salver) and then the Main Championship (Paget Trophy) all played on the East Course. 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 earlier in the week. After three days of highly competitive golf there was the inevitable dip in performance. With

the weather condition remaining as windy as had been experienced throughout the week, scoring was evidently difficult with only one player scoring better than 36 pts; SSgt Narayan Thapa AGC on 37

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER Cpl Glen Watt RAC

23

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS The final of the Keith Seddon Trophy pitted Weir against Canning. Both players played some good golf, with Weir eventually running out the winner 3&2. LCpl Cameron Weir RLC is the 2023 Keith Seddon Trophy winner.

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

Gurung P with only one close-run match in the quarter final stage all others were comfortable victories. Equally, M Rai had won all his matches to the final by 3&2 or better so the final was set to be a

tight affair. That was of course until both players hit their first tee shot, from where the pressure can be released if it can be overcome. On this occasion it appeared that Prem Gurung was able to cope

PLATE WINNER Cpl Prem Bahadur Gurung R Sigs

better and stormed to a 6&5 victory over M Rai, who I am sure will return this year with vengeance. For last year though there was just one deserved winner. Cpl Prem Bahadur Gurung R Sigs is the

next

2023 Denton Salver winner.

throughout with neither able to take the initiative.

hole,

this

followed

a

steady

pattern

With the scores level on the 8th Bruce-Smith was The Paget Trophy final was set with two new

blocked following his drive. The only option was a

finalists, who had been amongst the top 10 players

right-angle recovery shot akin to Bubba Watson in

at the Strokeplay in May: Sanghera playing off +3

the Masters against Tom Watson. He managed to

and

County

reach the edge of the green and then up and down

Champion, playing off +2. On paper this was to be

to save par. The match ran through to the 18th all

an evenly matched contest. The match was a close

square. Sanghera hit his traditional huge drive to

affair with each player going 1Up before losing the

the middle of the fairway, whilst Bruce-Smith hit

Bruce-Smith,

a

recent

Dorset

the fairway bunker. The second shots saw Sanghera hit to the back of the green beyond the mounds, whilst Bruce-Smith could only play safe to within 90yds. His approach to the green left him with a 20-foot putt for par. Sanghera on the other hand could chip or putt. With the spectators all offering their

opinion

to

‘putt’

amongst

themselves,

Sanghera opted to chip and did so in spectacular fashion leaving just a 4-foot putt for par. BruceSmith’s return putt was close but narrowly missed the hole by an inch closing with a bogey, leaving Sanghera the par putt for the win, which he duly nailed. LCpl Tom Sanghera REME is the 2023 Paget Trophy winner.

The standard of play throughout the competition in such harsh conditions was outstanding and overall

levels of sportsmanship were of the highest order RESERVE WINNER LCpl Cameron Weir RLC

24

with

some

excellent

individual

performances

throughout the week. Congratulations go to the winners and all the players!

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

MATCHPLAY CHAMPION 23 LCpl Tom Sanghera REME KEY RESULTS Army Champion

LCpl Tom Sanghera REME

Runner-Up

Sgt Matthew Bruce-Smith AGC (SPS)

Plate Winner

Cpl Prem Bahadur Gurung R Signals

Reserve Winner

LCpl Cameron Weir RLC

Tuesday Stableford Winner

CSjt Yambahadur Gurung RCAM

Wednesday Stableford Winner

SSgt Narayan Thapa AGC

Most Improved Player

Cpl Glen Watt RAC

25

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

13TH LADIES MATCHPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP The 13th Army Ladies Matchplay Championship

With no real shocks after round one, perhaps Maj

took place on 11 and 12 Jul 23 on the East Course

Lizzy Stileman RLC beating Cpl Emma Dann RCAM

which was in immaculate condition as usual. The

being the exception, the eight strongest players on

greens team had set up the course to be a

paper progressed to the quarter final. The top half

challenge and when you added this to the awful

of the draw had previous champions SSgt Kim

weather it was set to be a battle of the fittest for

Glynn-Galbraith AGC (SPS) and Maj Kate Eastman

sure. Encouragingly after a lot of hard work by the

AMS and looked set to be a very tight battle. The

Development team we were only one short of a full

other half was, on paper, more open but any of the

field with 4 entrants playing for the first time.

eight were more than capable of going all the way and lifting the trophy.

With last year’s winner, LCpl Niki Sutton AGC (SPS)

missing

from

the

field

due

to

operational

The quarter-final matches saw Glynn-Galbraith

commitment, there was only one seed, runner up

beat Maj Sue Lambert AGC (ETS) 4&3, the latter

from last year, Maj Gina Smith REME. Now anyone

playing in her final Army Championship as she

who knows Smith will know that it is not in her

takes a very well-earned retirement at the end of

nature to finish any match in regulation and has

the year. Eastman beat Smith 1Up, which must

often been known to play out to the 22nd or 23rd

have seen Smith play the least amount of holes

hole. Good for her then that this time she got to

she’s played at Saunton for many a year. SSgt Mel

watch the ever-worsening weather from the shelter

van Zyl AMS beat Stileman 5&3 and van Zyl was

of the driving range

the

looking very good as she progressed through the

remainder of the field battled through the first

field. Her regular rounds on St Andrews Old Course

round.

surely giving her a good grounding for Saunton

and clubhouse as

SAUNTON BOWL WINNER Maj Gina Smith REME

26

BOWLES TROPHY WINNER Cpl Emma Dann RCAM

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS So

back

to

the

semi-finals

of

the

main

Championship and literally the draw was wide open with the winner potentially coming from anywhere.

The first match, Glynn-Galbraith versus Eastman saw two previous champions go head-to-head.

With the weather improving slightly Eastman pushed on and took the match on the 16th green 3&2. The other side of the draw had van Zyl versus O’Brien. Van Zyl looked the stronger perhaps after the previous two rounds but O’Brien would not let

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER Lt Col Alex O’Brien RLC

go of what was perhaps her last chance to be champion as she retired from regular service last year. The match finished in front of a packed

and this weather. That just left the last match, an all

clubhouse veranda with O’Brien winning 1Up. We

RLC affair and the Captain WO2 Zoe Burrell-Knipe

hope she joins the reserves and comes back to

(BK) RLC taking on the Vice Captain Lt Col Alex

attempt to regain her title. Lt Col Alex O’Brien is the

O’Brien RLC. The match was nip and tuck all the

2023 Meechie Trophy winner.

way through, but they had to go through the turn and on to the 20th hole before O’Brien took the

The Walters Trophy is a new award in honour of Ms

match. It should be noted here that this was only

Diane Walters, who stepped down as the Army Golf

BK’s second competitive round since recovering

Ladies Manager after 18 years in the role. It is the

from surgery.

Ladies Players’ Player of the Year Award, presented to the individual who has shown outstanding

The Plate competition for the Bowles Trophy saw

dedication and team spirit throughout the season

2Lt Molly Bean Int Corps versus Tpr Michelle Bolten

as voted for by the players. Last year the trophy was

HAC, WO1 Mel Silvester AGC (SPS) versus Dann in

presented by Diane, for the first time ever, to SSgt

the top half and Musn Justine Stringer HAC versus

Mel van Zyl AMS. Her dedication to the team has

LBdr Lizzy Griggs RA and WO2 Claire Ham AGC

seen

(SPS) with a bye in the bottom. The weather

representative fixture during the season.

her

play

in

every

Army

and

UKAF

certainly wasn’t improving but with a constant keen wind at least what there was, rain or shine,

Congratulations go to all players for not only the

was only overhead for short bursts. Bean, Bolten,

standard of play but also the level of sportsmanship

Silvester and Griggs were all playing in their first

displayed throughout.

Matchplay

Championships

and

despite

the

elements and the best the East course could throw at them they all gave a superb account of themselves with some certain to form part of future Army

teams.

Unfortunately,

Griggs

couldn’t

complete her round due to injury so that gave Stringer a W/O. Dann displayed flashes of brilliance in her match to overpower Silvester 8&6, and this just left Bean and Bolten battling it out with Bolten just edging it out with a 2&1 win. As we moved into the semi-final, experience won out and Ham beat Bolten 4&3 and Dann just eased out Stringer 1Up. So to a Dann/Ham final, with both players showing their determination and tenacity throughout with

everything though, someone has to win and on this occasion Dann just pulled ahead at the end to take the match 2&1. Cpl Emma Dann RCAM is the 2023 Bowles Trophy winner.

THE WALTERS TROPHY WINNER SSgt Mel van Zyl AMS 27

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

LADIES MATCHPLAY CHAMPION 23 Lt Col Alex O’Brien RLC KEY RESULTS Army Ladies Champion

Lt Col Alex O’Brien RLC

Runner-Up

Maj Kate Eastman AMS

Bowles Trophy Winner

Cpl Emma Dann RCAM

Saunton Bowl Winner

Maj Gina Smith REME

Most Improved Ladies Player

Lt Col Alex O’Brien RLC

Ladies Players’ Player of the Year

SSgt Mel van Zyl AMS

28

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

49TH INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIP The draw for the Inter Corps Championship,

were convincing 5 – 0 wins for the AGC (A) team

generously sponsored by Army Sport, was made by

over AGC (B) team, as was the case between RA (A)

the Tournament Director, Lt Col (Retd) Keith

over REME (B). RLC had a 3-2 win over AAC, RA (B)

Seddon, on Wed 12 Jul, after the Matchplay finals

had a 4-1 over the Int Corps. In the other side of the

and Prize Giving had concluded and prior to the

draw the two R Sigs teams could only manage a

AGM. 17 teams entered; the field comprised 12 “A”

draw with the A team winning on a play-off hole.

teams (RCAM did not enter a team) and 5 “B”

The RE overcame the RAPTC 3½-1½, the Inf beat

teams. RA A (1) and R Sigs A (2) teams, as winners

the AMS 3½-1½ and finally the REME (A) beat the

and runners-up from the 2022 Championship

RAC 3-2.

respectively, were the 1 and 2 seeds with the remainder being drawn out of the hat. The draw

In the second round the draw had pulled together

was evenly matched with AAC playing RLC, AGC (A)

the two RA teams, the A beating the B team 4 – 1. In

playing AGC (B), Int Corp playing RA (B), and REME

the other matches the R Sigs A continued their

(B) playing RA (A) in the top half. R Sigs (A) playing

charge with a 3-2 win over the RE, the Inf A beat the

R Sigs (B), RE (A) playing RAPTC, INF playing AMS,

REME A, again by a 3-2 margin and finally AGC A

and RAC playing REME (A) in the bottom half. It was

beat the much-fancied RAC again 3-2. With last

difficult to see where the winners would come from

year’s finalists still in the hunt it was difficult to see

particularly as last year’s winners, the RA (A), were

who would come out on top.

not at full strength. Unfortunately, with 17 teams, one was balloted out. Last year it was the RE (B)

The main semi-final line-up would see the AGC (A)

team, and so the subsidiary competition was not

versus last year’s winners RA (A) and the finalists

held for the first time since its introduction.

from last year, the R Sigs (A), up against the 2021

winners the Inf. Four strong teams where matches As usual, the Championship moved completely to

could go either way. All players performed well

the West Course, a tricky course and one to be

given the conditions, but the eventual finalists saw

navigated

the

the AGC (A) beating the RA (A), 3-2 and the R Sigs

weather conditions deteriorated further with more

(A), beating the Inf 3½-1½. So, a re-match of last

heavy rain and gusty winds. It was going to be a

year’s semi-final between the AGC (A), and the R

stern test only for the brave. In round one there

Sigs (A), beckoned.

around carefully.

Unfortunately,

STABLEFORD WINNERS RA B SSgt Adam Hayward collecting the REME Salver on behalf of RA B

29

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS next was the R Sigs (B) on 94 pts with the RE coming in 3rd on 85 pts. Individual scores saw WO2 Cornelis

Mostert

RA

leading

the

way

on

a

commendable 24 pts, followed closely by LCpl Cameron Weir RLC and WO1 Michael Shipp REME on 23 pts. RA (B) are the 2023 REME Shield winners.

In the Plate (Singapore Trophy) for the first-round losers, AGC (B) had a close encounter with the Int Corps; after a drawn match the Int Corps won through on the play-off hole. On the other side of the draw, the AMS team, buoyed by the leadership

REME were all smiles despite the moody weather conditions

of Lt Col Stu Campbell, persevered to a hard-fought

3-2 victory over the RAPTC team. This result set the stage for a closely contested Plate final between

In the REME Shield for day one losers, each team is

the AMS and the Int Corps. On the day, against all

required to play 18 holes scratch Stableford, with all

the wind and rain, the Int Corps triumphed 3½-1½.

5 scores counting. Friday morning started with a

Int Corps are the 2023 Singapore Trophy winners.

severe weather warning of torrential rain and gale force

winds,

it

was

debateable

whether

the

In the main final, as the light faded fast and after a

competitions would be played. After discussions

gruelling day on the course, it was always going to

with the golf club staff the only reason to stop play

be a tough ask for either team, and the fact that

would be if the ball would not stop on the greens; it

they both persevered to the end was truly

was close but not quiet at that point so the

commendable. After such a demanding week for all

waterproofs were donned, and play commenced.

the players in challenging conditions, the final

On completion of play, it was clear the weather had

remained a closely contested match. However, the

won the day when comparing the scores from last

R Sigs (A) managed to clinch victory, sealing a 3-2

year; there was almost a 50 pts difference between

win over the AGC (A) in the last pairing. With this

the winning teams. After battling the wind and rain

triumph, R Sigs (A) proudly claim the title of the

the RA (B) team won through on a mere 100 pts, up

2023 Royal Irish Rangers Bowl winners.

PLATE WINNERS Int Corps L to R: Maj Stephens, Capt Thomas, Sgt Ware, Sgt Timson, Lt Bean 30

MATCHPLAY & INTER CORPS CHAMPIONSHIPS

INTER CORPS CHAMPIONS R Signals A Top L to R: SSgt Reeves, Sgt T Gurung Lt Col Pace, SSgt S Tamang, WO1 Gibbs, Cpl B Gurung Bottom L to R: Capt S Rai, Rob Tickell KEY RESULTS Inter Corps Champions

R Signals A

Runners-Up

AGC A

Plate Winners

Int Corps

Runners-Up

AMS

Stableford Winners

RA B

Runners-Up

R Signals B

Once again, the AGA extends immense gratitude to

respective categories, while the R Sigs (A) team

the Saunton Golf Club Committee and members

triumphed in the Inter Corps Championship.

for graciously hosting our event for the week. The exceptional hospitality and camaraderie extended

Our heartfelt thanks go to our sponsors Thales,

to all involved within the AGA, including players and

Army Sport, and BT for their invaluable financial

officials, were truly remarkable. We cherish our

and technical support. Special appreciation is

strong relationship with one of the top golf clubs in

reserved for Mr Jon Southerland, the General

the country, not something we take lightly!

Manager, and his Assistant, Liz Cann, at Saunton for their unwavering assistance throughout the week.

LCpl Tom Sanghera REME and Lt Col Alex O’Brien

We also extend our gratitude to the Tournament

RLC emerged as deserving champions in their

Committee for orchestrating the event.

31

STABLEFORD CHAMPIONSHIP

STABLEFORD CHAMPIONSHIP The 2023 AGA Stableford Championship returned to its spiritual home of Whittington Heath Golf Club for the 38th time, missing only once during that time due to the new course construction in 2021. It was wonderful to return to familiar surroundings

amongst friendly and welcoming members and staff. The course was progressing well following the redevelopment associated with HS2 and it must be said, the course was again in excellent condition, something we have come to expect.

Following months of warm dry weather in the early part of the year, Whittington had recently fallen foul to periods of torrential rain, so on arrival we were met with lush fairways, hard fast greens and substantial rough. The forecast for the three days

looked to be indifferent, but with harsh weather hitting Whittington on the final day.

Sgt Aidi Bennett R Signals

First up was the annual match against past Captains and members of Whittington Heath GC, and the AGA officials with a select few AGA members and sponsors. With the teams evenly matched handicap-wise, all bode for a close-run match. With scores even through to the last match, all but one match being won on the 18th. That one, of course, being the AGA Secretary’s. Unfortunately, having injured his hand the day before, and against his better judgement, he proceeded to play. With the weight of expectation weighing heavily on his partner’s shoulders (Lt Col Stu Campbell AMS) they tried in vain to hold their own, but on this occasion, fortune did not favour the brave and they went down 5&4. The result left the AGA winning the Wooden Spoon, which is awarded annually to the

losing team. At the end of the day the only winner was the golf. The match was followed by a dinner

Sgt Mike Cupper RA 32

where old friendships were cemented for another year.

STABLEFORD CHAMPIONSHIP saw LCpl Buluhang Rai RLC (13) leading the way on 41 pts, Sgt Robert Cooper REME (18) and Lt Col Suart Campbell AMS (5) on 37 pts, followed by Capt Paul Simpson REME (7), Maj Scott Dunn Inf (10), WO1 Michael ‘Charlie’ Brown AGC (9) and LCpl Ben Slaven R Sigs (28) all on 36 pts. There were 35 players scoring 30 pts or better in round 1.

The wind settled down and with the sun shining throughout the afternoon, the competition settled into some rhythm, which ensured the scoring remained consistently high for the top half of the leaderboard with, once again, over 30 players

scoring higher than 30 pts. Interestingly very few of the top 10 of the first round were able to hold their consistency and so the leaderboard was starting to become congested as the day progressed. This would ensure the focus into day two, when some players tend to drift off the pace. The afternoon scores saw Cpl Michael Parry AGC (24) as the round 2 leader on 39 pts. Next up was Cpl Lee Williams AGC (12) and Capt Steve Pammen AMS (19) on 38

SSgt Pasang Sherpa RLC

pts, followed by SSgt David Whitwham RLC (27), Cpl Simon Nunn R Sigs (17) and Pte Jason Browring

With a field of 59, including last year’s Champion,

AGC (10) all on 37 pts. Thereafter, there were 5

Capt Mukunda Rajali Inf, sporting his new handicap

players on 36 pts and a further 6 on 35 pts.

of 17 (down from last year’s 22), round 1 started better than forecast, although the wind had picked

Results after two rounds then: Rai lead the pack on

up and was gusting across the course sending

74 pts, closely followed by Williams on 73 pts, then

many a tee shot into the rough off the first. The

Campbell on 72 pts, and Pammen, Brown and Lt

greens had been cut and rolled first thing, so they

Col Adrian Grinonneau Inf (16) all on 71 pts. Such

were waiting to add to some of the pain of the

close scoring meant day two was set up for some

fairways. However, as the day progressed the wind

stiff competition.

abated, and the sun shone through to create good scoring opportunities. Unfortunately, Sgt Barrie Fraser Inf had to withdraw during round 1 due to an ongoing chest infection.

The competition format ballots out those with the lowest

handicaps,

so this

event

provides

an

opportunity for the middle to higher handicap players to have a good run for the trophies. Any idea

that

the

lowest

handicap

players

will

automatically fare better is a myth well dispelled early in the first round.

Clubhouse leader Cpl Steven Farnworth Inf (1)

posted a solid 33 pts, which looked tidy for the first hour. But as the field completed round one, 33 pts was never going to cut it, although there were only 8 pts separating the top 10 players. Stand out score

Mr Ian Bosley 33

STABLEFORD CHAMPIONSHIP The forecast for day two was set for torrential rain

The leaderboard was starting to take shape going

with the potential for thunder and lightning. To our

into the final round where realistically the winner

surprise we were met with strong winds and

could have come from any of the top 10 players:

sunshine. The overnight rain had softened the greens so they could be confidently attacked, but

LCpl Buluhang Rai RLC (13)

107 pts

to even things up the grounds staff took revenge

Lt Col Stuart Campbell AMS (5)

105 pts

with some brutal pin positions that did take their

Pte Jason Browring AGC (10)

104 pts

toll later in the day. So, with the course looking

Cpl Lee Williams AGC (12)

104 pts

immaculate, something we had come to expect at

Sgt Mike Cupper RA (24)

103 pts

Whittington Heath, day two got under way.

Capt Steve Pammen AMS (19)

103 pts

Maj Robin White Inf (16)

102 pts

Scoring on the third round once again remained

SSgt David Whitwham RLC (27)

102 pts

high, although with more new names appearing

Lt Col Adrian Grinonneau Inf (16) 102 pts

further up the leaderboard. LCpl Benjamin Lee Inf

Capt Paul Simpson REME (7)

101 pts

(26) led the way with an impressive round of 39 pts;

WO1 Charlie Brown AGC (9)

101 pts

right behind on 38 pts was Capt Stephen Johnson AMS (10), with Maj Alastair Wills AGC (13) one back

The final round saw lots of tired legs and sore feet

on 37 pts. Browring remained in the overall running

with several blisters, and mentally fatigued players

on 36 pts joined by WO2 Gary ‘Geordie’ Fernandez

starting to drift from the leading pack as the course

RAPTC (13) and Maj Robin White Inf (16) all on 36

set-up and prevailing weather conditions took their

pts. Once again, there were over 30 scoring 30 pts

toll. The number of players breaking 30 pts was

of more. WO2 Claire Ham AGC was the leading

down to 28. That said, the scores remained

female competitor remaining in the top third.

consistently high with 39 pts again topping the board with the reigning champion Rajali finding his

game to hold on the best score of round 4. Three others followed one back; Brown, Mr Ian Bosley (10) and Maj Gina Smith REME (13), finding her game at last, with an impressive 38 pts. One back were four others, resulting in some movement at the top of the leaderboard. Unfortunately, some fell away.

Noticeably Campbell struggled to 24 pts. After turning up on the wrong tee, Browring proceeded to double across to the correct tee and lost his first ball off the tee. He then bogeyed the next two holes to put an end to his championship push. Hero of the day was Grinonneau, who after being stung by a bee and with a swollen hand, still managed to out drive his playing partners straight down the middle.

Of the final groups contesting for the lead, there were lost balls within the first three holes. The balls having only to drift off the second cut of rough to be lost for another day; either that or left for Keith or Steve to find as they ‘spotted’ flights throughout the day.

So, as the day drew to a close with the expected

dark clouds looming ever closer and with some of the front runners falling away, LCpl Buluhang Rai

WO1 Ian Barnes RLC 34

RLC, with four consistent rounds, came in as the winner by 3 pts on 142 pts.

STABLEFORD CHAMPIONSHIP The top 10 positions were:

We thank Thales, our headline and Stableford Championship sponsor, along with Army Sport and

LCpl Buluhang Rai RLC – 142 pts

Comms Spec Ltd for their continuous support.

WO1 Charlie Brown AGC – 139 pts

Special thanks to Club President Kelvin Edwards,

Sgt Mike Cupper RA – 138 pts

Captain Ian Hilary, Manager Oli Baines, and Emma

Mr Ian Bosley – 136 pts OCB

and

Cpl Carl Thompson Inf – 136 pts OCB

Appreciation also goes to the catering staff for their

Pte Jason Browring AGC – 136 pts

hospitality. Our gratitude extends to Mike, the Club

LCpl Benjamin Lee Inf – 135 pts OCB

Professional, Ben, his assistant, and Adam and the

Lt Col Adrian Grinonneau Inf – 135 pts

greenkeeping staff for their efforts in maintaining

Capt Paul Simpson REME – 134 pts

the course. The AGA deeply values the warmth and

LCpl Tim Shaw RLC – 133 pts

friendship of all at Whittington Heath.

her

team

for

coordinating

the

event.

L to R: Taylor/Bartley Trophy & Handicap Cup Winner - LCpl Buluhang Rai RLC Harrison's Shield Winner - WO1 Charlie Brown AGC Courage Cup Winner - Cpl Steven Farnworth Inf

KEY RESULTS Stableford Champion

LCpl Buluhang Rai RLC 142 pts

Scratch Champion

Cpl Steven Farnworth Inf 120 scratch points

Senior Winner (Over 45)

WO1 Charlie Brown AGC 139 pts

Best Round of the Competition

LCpl Buluhang Rai RLC 41 pts (round 1)

35

INTER REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

INTER REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP Once again, we are indebted to Worksop Golf Club

fast in the morning having been freshly cut and

as

Regional

rolled, had slowed slightly by mid-afternoon. All was

Championship. In the middle of a mini heatwave

set for a good day’s competition; it was now left to

the temperatures rose to new heights, presenting

the teams and players to produce the scores.

they

hosted

the

2023

Inter

additional concerns to the organisers to ensure the

safety of all involved in the competition. With

It was clear that those with the ability to hit

additional measures in place, the committee and

consistently straight shots would score well and

the golf club were content that the competition

this was the case in the morning Greensomes,

could commence safely and without adjustment to

where some extremely good scores were posted.

the format. The course was in great condition albeit

Some familiar names started to appear towards the

the greens were not at their usual fast pace, but

top of the board, WO1 Jon Bulter and Capt Cliff

they were as ever, running true.

Tweed being but two. As the morning progressed it was clear that scoring was going to be down on last

A little rain in the preceding few days helped the

year with only one pair hitting the 40 pts mark.

fairways which now had some give, meaning the

Other notables were: WO2 Jamie Lucas and SSgt

ball was not able to run for the distances they once

Andy Bird from the South East on 39 pts, Runners-

had. This coupled with the receptive greens made

Up OCB over Mr Steve Thompson and Mr Simon

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

Ellis from the North East region, Mr Paul Tallon and

said, and on reflection, scoring across the board

Mr Paul Nuttall from the North West region, and

was down on 2022; whether that was an effect of

finally Capt Steve Hickey and Capt Tek Rai from the

the heat, who knows.

South West region. The only other score of note was WO2 Geordie Ferandez and Mr Peter Moses on

With a field of 9 teams (Cyprus unable to travel), we

38 pts from the Wales region.

had 54 players representing their A Teams in last year’s

Championship;

Northern

Ireland

(the

As for the team scores, after the Greensomes the

reigning Champions), Scotland, Wales and both

reigning Champions from Northern Ireland looking

Northern, Midlands, and Southern regions.

for a third straight win, were struggling at the foot of the leaderboard with 97 pts. They definitely had

The competition format remained the same in time

their work cut out if the trophy was to venture back

honoured

Pairs

across the water for another year. So, the scene was

Stableford in the morning and Singles Stableford in

set with the chasing pack not more than 4 shots

the

handicap

behind the early leaders, the North West region on

allowances. The only change last year was the use

109 pts. Wales next up on 105 pts, then North East,

of the White Tees for the Greensomes and the

South East and South West all on 103 pts, followed

Yellows for the singles. This was on account of the

by Scotland, Eastern and the West Midlands on 100

high temperatures and the potential for fading

pts.

tradition

afternoon,

all

with with

Greensomes relevant

light for those teeing off last in the afternoon.

With the temperatures at their height, additional An early start accompanied by mild fog and muggy

water on board and the match officials doing

conditions gave the feeling that you could get at

circuits of the course with extra supplies, the

the course and score well early on, until the early

afternoon singles competition set off. As in the

morning moisture burnt off and the greens sped

morning rounds the scoring remained fairly even

up. The one saving grace was the greens that were

with very few players able to hit the heights of

36

INTER REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Roger Brierley - North West

previous years. This was most likely down to the

mention must go to the Club Captain, Mr Stephen

heat and slow play, owing to the society that had

Read, who went out of his way to make us feel so

been slipped in front of our leading groups; an issue

welcome and stayed late into the evening to assist

to be addressed for next year. That said, scoring

at the prize giving. To Natalie Willis and her

remained

leaderboard

catering staff in the hospitality space, and all of the

changed on receipt and population of each

greenkeeping staff for setting the course so well.

afternoon scorecard. Given only five scores were to

Finally, a special mention to the General Manager,

count

off,

Mr Simon Booth, for agreeing to retain the

consistency in the collective group would be key to

Championship for the next five years. We are

success. Once Northern Ireland’s Capt Cliff Tweed

already looking forward to 2024!

consistent

with

the

and

lowest

so

the

score

dropping

posted a credible 41 pts, they thought they had made up sufficient ground to reach the top, but

In addition, our thanks to Thales, the AGA headline

any notion was swiftly quashed, as South East

sponsor, to BT and Comm Spec who continue to

region posted scores in the mid-30s to counter any

provide pro bono IT tech and comms support to the

single spikes across the board.

AGA, and to Army Sport. And last, but by no means least, to Keith Seddon the Tournament Director,

At the close of play, there were only 3 pts between

Chris Bartley Tournament Official, and the Vice

South East (269 pts) & Eastern and Wales (266 pts)

Chair Bob Gamble for ensuring the event ran

which were decided on count back; then three

smoothly.

teams, Northern Ireland, Scotland and the West Midlands, 2 pts back on 264 pts; then North West

With the Championship secured at Worksop for the

on 254 pts; and finally two teams took a share of

next five years, we look forward to returning

last place on 253 pts, North East and South West.

Tue 3 and Wed 4 Sep 24 with the usual practice

on

round and Committee match taking place on Tue 3

Our thanks, once again, go out to the Worksop

Sep 24. Given last year's 3:1 defeat, the AGA is

committee and all its members for allowing us the

dedicated to implementing

use of their course for this event and for their

approach to team selection this year to improve our

generous

chances of success.

hospitality

and

support.

A

special

a more strategic

37

INTER REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

2023 CHAMPIONS - SOUTH EAST L to R: SSgt Andy Bird, LCpl Cameron Weir, WO2 Paul Simpson, WO2 Matt Priston, WO2 Jamie Lucas, SSgt Craig Butler

KEY RESULTS Greensome Pairs (AM): 1st

WO1 John Butler and Mr Bob Cooper (Eastern)

40 pts

2nd

WO2 Jamie Lucas and SSgt Andy Bird (South East)

39 pts OCB

Singles Nett (PM): 1st

Capt Cliff Tweed (Northern Ireland)

41 pts

2nd

WO1 John Butler (Eastern)

40 pts

3rd

Capt Andrew McGuffie (Wales)

37 pts

4th

WO2 Paul Simpson (South East)

36 pts OCB

Regional team Scores: 1st

South East

269 pts

2nd

Eastern

266 pts OCB

3rd

Wales

266 pts

4th

Northern Ireland

264 pts OCB

5th

Scotland

264 pts OCB

6th

West Midlands

264 pts

7th

North West

254 pts

8th

North East

253 pts OCB

9th

South West

253 pts

38

QUILL & CLUB TOURNAMENT

QUILL & CLUB TOURNAMENT The annual AGA Quill and Club Tournament

Slow and steady wins the race, as was proved by

returned to the scenic Mill Ride Golf Club in Ascot.

Craig Morton who carded 17 on both halves to just

The event is organised by the AGA committee at

take the trophy from Ian Lester on count back.

the season’s close for all the current and past

Third time lucky next year, Ian!

organisers of AGA events at Army, Corps, and

Regional levels.

The event closed with a lovely meal and the opportunity for the players to reminisce over the

We were delighted to host two potential sponsors

“what might have beens”. As ever the event was

for the day; Richard Austin of Methods and Ash

played in great spirit and the day was enjoyed by

Baldwin of Fortinet. We eagerly anticipate their

all.

presence at future events.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Mill Ride for their The weather had picked up for the day and for once

warm hospitality, and we eagerly anticipate our

rain was not in the forecast. The course was played

return on Thu 3 Oct 24 to relive the excitement. To

really well but still managed to throw up a stern

all the players who travelled from far and wide,

test to all players with nobody managing to “shoot

thank you for your support throughout this and

the lights out”. Although Secretary Steve Davis

previous years - without you Army Golf would not

appeared poised to claim the title of "most golf"

be the force that it is.

after his front nine, he gracefully bowed out of contention on the back nine.

The competition boasted a diverse range of handicaps, with participants evenly split between single figures and mid/high teens. This ensured a thrilling contest for all involved.

Only Ian Lester managed to break par on the front nine, carding 20 points. However, a stumble on the back nine saw him relinquish the lead, ultimately settling for a runner-up position, mirroring his performance from last year. Matt Priston was the only other player who managed to break par, this time on the back nine, where he also scored a very creditable 20 points.

Craig Morton (L) accepting his trophy from Secretary AGA, Lt Col (Retd) Steve Davis (R)

KEY RESULTS Winner

Craig Morton 34 pts OCB

Runner-Up

WO2 Ian Lester 34 pts

Third

Matt Priston 33 pts

Nearest the Pin

Ben Ware

Nearest the Pin in 2

Chris Bartley

39

EX GREEN FAIRWAY 23

EX GREEN FAIRWAY 23

By Capt Lewis Ramsbottom INT CORPS The Int Corps Golf Association (ICGA) continued

period; although our last-minute Individual Training

with its overburdensome demands it places upon

Requirements to deploy were finally met, we could

its

GREEN

not have stepped onto that outbound flight

FAIRWAY 23 (Ex GF23), only the second Overseas

without his sublime work and commitment to help.

members.

Welcome

to

Exercise

Sports Visit (OSV) carried out by the Association. In September 2023. 11 service personnel (both Reg and

After a lost work phone and a smooth flight later,

Res) deployed to the sunny shores of Orlando

the Ex GF23 team collected their colossal American

Florida, USA, for a gruelling 10-day gladiatorial

trucks and headed for their 14-bed palatial AirBnB.

battle on the winding flats and swamp corridors of

The

the region's finest golf courses.

competition spread across 11 days, with the most

remit

was

clear,

8

rounds

of

golfing

important fixture against an American team from The start you want is not always the start you are

the

granted. Permissions to travel and authority to

sandwiched in the middle. A careful massaging of

carry (golf clubs) were thought to be a thing of the

the fixture list placed this match on day 6, allowing

past to the Ex OiC, SSgt Timson. With surgical

for the ICGA players to hit peak performance before

planning and administration akin to a prime Ted

teeing up for the shotgun start (or at least that was

Hastings in Line of Duty, our preparative paperwork

the idea). Although national pride and professional

was thought to be in hand, but not even we were

integrity were up for grabs against the Americans,

safe from the tentacles of assurance. Twenty-four

players were also in competition for the coveted

hours prior to departure, the joys of conducting

Tour Championship Trophies: The Strokeplay Steel

soldier conditioning reviews and SERE training

Cup and the Stableford Glass Award. The individual

were afforded to the bulk of the team. A special

with the best aggregated score across three

thank you to the Corps Adjutant, Capt Jack Emmis,

separate rounds would be victorious and claim

for his tireless support during this tempestuous

their respective prize.

40

mighty

MacDill

Air

Force

Base

(AFB),

EX GREEN FAIRWAY 23 Let the games begin. The Legends Course at

into the night, attending the Tampa Bay Rays

Orange Lake was our first introduction to Florida

Baseball game, which proved to be a mighty

golf, an experience better shared by some more

spectacle.

than

others.

Championships

The

first

was

up

round

for

next,

and

the

Tour

what

a

To say we had saved the best courses until last was

sensational GC it was; Disney’s Lake Buena Vista.

an

understatement.

The time spent appreciating our surroundings and

remained, Celebration GC, Hawks Landing GC, and

searching for balls in the 3-inch-deep rough was

Panther Lake at Orange County National, were

shared equally. Needless to say, all were quick to

sublime and true tests of our golfing ability

forget their spending budgets when procuring

(although maybe the words “I have not come to

Disney embossed items from the pro shop after the

Florida to layup” were spoken a little too often).

6-hour round. We were treated to Florida’s golfing

Their completion left but one thing to announce,

history at Dubsdread on day 4, followed by the

the

symbolic Champions Gate on day 5. The courses

Congratulations were in order for Messrs Sgt Adam

seemed to get better and better as the days went

Fisher, for winning the Strokeplay Steel Cup, and

on. It is, therefore, no surprise that some among the

SSgt Alan Martin, for winning the Stableford Glass

ICGA players were seen “misplacing” 7 and 8 irons

Award. They were rightfully crowned the two best

amidst the fracas of excitement. The lost and found

golfers of the Tour whose game shone above all

was certainly benefiting from our visit so far.

others.

The game that mattered most. Day 6 was upon us,

All in all, ExGF23 was a triumphant success,

and the match against MacDill Air Force Base was

bringing together members of the Corps from all

to begin at 0830hrs sharp. Red vs Blue, the match

over the world to compete in the game of golf.

epitomized fierce competition. The format, 2BBB,

Alligators were seen, friends were made, but above

allowed for us to truly compete as a team, drawing

all else, the encouragement for future participation

on each other’s strengths for what was a tooth and

in the sport was firmly cemented. A closing thanks

nail bout of attrition. After the opening 9 holes, it

to ICA, and the ASL, for funding (we couldn’t have

was apparent that the Brits had the upper hand,

done it without your help) and our opponents, the

which left the Americans with only one option, to

team

call upon their strategic reserve, AKA, The Corps of

competitors and outstanding hosts. Finally, and

Mosquitos. The bites were ferocious, even forcing a

most importantly, I would like to thank, SSgt Jacob

12th hole CASEVAC for an ICGA player; however, the

Timson, for organizing what was a superb OSV for

strength of the team proved too great for the

members of the Corps. I speak on behalf of all who

Americans. The Brits seized a comfortable victory 4

attended, and those who unfortunately could not

-1 lifting the “Ryder Cup-esque” Trophy in the

make it, when I say we cannot wait for the next

clubhouse post-round. The celebrations continued

iteration of Ex GREEN FAIRWAY.

winners

from

of

The

the

MacDill

three

Tour

AFB,

rounds

that

Championships.

who

were

valiant

ICGA vs MacDill Air Force Base

41

42

43

By Maj Jack Musgrove RA Overall, I am very satisfied with how the 2023 Army

In March, our season kicked off with a 2-week tour

men’s team season went. As Captain, I believe I

in Orlando, Florida, where twelve squad members

achieved most of the goals that I set; less that of

honed their skills on a variety of challenging

winning the Inter Service Championships, which

courses like Panther Lake at Orange County

uniquely we competed in twice in 2023. For me,

National and Celebration Golf Club. Florida is a

men’s team Inter Service results are the key metric

superb venue for a golf tour, and I believe everyone

we should assess our overall yearly performance

who took part in this tour thoroughly enjoyed the

against. However, though I am unable to report to

experience. The benefits of warm weather early

you that the Army men’s team secured Inter

season practice were almost immediately apparent,

Service success in 2023, I believe there are so many

as the team later won both the Brent Knoll Bowl at

other reasons to be positive about last season and

Burnham and Berrow GC and an annual fixture

the future of the team. Our squad of players

against

continues to grow; giving more people the chance

weekend in late March; both these results were

to play golf at the Service level and individuals have

reason to celebrate individually – such is the quality

quickly risen from our development squad to break

of the opposition in each fixture. That said, I am

through and compete at the pinnacle of Service

most pleased that we were able to field two teams

golf, the Inter Service Championships.

with the quality to win tough matches on the same

Hayling

Island

GC

during

the

same

Men’s Army team at the Brent Knoll Bowl L to R: Declan Brady, Richie Over, Gaz Gurung, Tom Sanghera, Matthew Bruce-Smith, Jack Musgrove, Club Captain Symon Clifford

44

CAPTAIN’S (MEN) REPORT

Men’s Army team at the rearranged Inter Service Championships in April 23 L to R top: J Musgrove, M Bruce-Smith, A Harriott, G Gurung, D Saunders, K Roberts L to R bottom: J Howse, T Sanghera, R Over, G Torrie, A Matthews, R Pace

weekend, it is a testament to the incredible depth

generated through the Association. Representing

we have within the Army men’s team.

the Army in the development championship has quickly established itself as a clear pathway into the

The rescheduled 2022 Inter Service Championships

Army's first team; noting that the five most recent

were held in April on the Lodge Course at Enville

Inter Service players have all previously been part of

GC. A new-looking Army team arrived with high

the development team.

expectations; Sgt Matthew Bruce-Smith, LCpl Alex Matthews, LCpl Tom Sanghera and Spr Graeme

Returning in its usual September slot, the 2023

Torrie all making debuts in the Championships.

Inter Service Championships were held at Woodhall

However, in what was a cold and frosty week, our

Spa GC with matches being played over the

team performance failed to light any fires. After

impressive Hotchkin course. Financial limitations

being narrowly defeated by the RAF in the opening

prevented the team from being able to play the

fixture, we edged to victory over the RN on day two;

course before the week of the Championship,

although due to matches won and lost even before

making competing against a reinforced RAF team

the RN and RAF played the deciding fixture, our

in their backyard even more of a challenge. With

chances of winning were very slim. The RN went on

Sgt Glen Watt making his Inter Service debut, the

to beat a rotated RAF team, deservedly ending a

Army team defeated the RN on day one, a victory

long wait for Inter Service victory.

made possible by a superb team foursomes performance. The stage was then set for a straight

In June, Lt Declan Brady led the Army team at the

shootout with the RAF after they swept aside the

Inter Service Development Team Championship at

RN. Sadly, we were second-best against the RAF

Thonock Park GC in Gainsborough. The red team

when it mattered. After edging ahead of us during

defeated the RN and tied with the RAF, ensuring

the foursomes session, they were clinical during

the Army retained the Championship. Once again,

singles matches – we can have no complaints; we

this is a clear demonstration of the strength of the

were undone by an excellent team, in form, on a

AGA and the number of excellent golfers being

golf course that they knew insideout.

45

CAPTAIN’S (MEN) REPORT Other fixtures during the season included: the Cornish Piskey at Newquay GC; the Graham Butler Trophy at Ferndown GC, playing the Cheshire County team; and the return of our hugely popular match against the Little Aston Scratch team. For his superb commitment to the team and excellent individual performances both for the Army and in Regional events, Sgt Matthew Bruce-Smith was recognized as the Army Men’s Player of the Year; he, along with SSgt Gaz Gurung, LCpl Alex Matthews, LCpl Tom Sanghera, and Spr Graeme Torrie, were awarded full Army team colours, having

played

in

their

second

Inter

Service

Championships during the season.

The end of the 2023 season marked the end of my Captaincy. Captaining a team that means so much to me, and that I love being part of, has been an enormous pleasure and privilege. I have memories

all, I want to thank the team and all those from

from the experience that I will cherish for the rest of

across the Association who support the team. I am

my life. I cannot thank Sgt Richie Over and WO2

delighted that Capt Scott Dickinson has been

Kerry Roberts enough for all the support they have

selected as our new Captain. I know that he is the

given to me as Vice Captain and team Manager

right person to drive us on; I hope that my time has

respectively. I also will never forget how much I

set the conditions for the team to be successful

have been helped by our Association’s permanent

under his Captaincy.

staff members, Steve Davis, Jana Daniell, and of course my dear friend Diane Walters – I am hugely

I hope to see as many of you as possible at AGA

grateful to them all and without their work our

events in 2024. Best of luck to you all both on and

Association would not be what it is today. Most of

off the golf course.

Inter Service Development team L to R top: Glen Watt, Rob Perrins, Declan Brady, Adam Hayward, Dean Geoghegan L to R bottom: Clinton Prime, Steve Farnworth, Bisal Gurung, Ben Ware, Craig Cowie

46

By WO2 Zoe (BK) Burrell -Knipe RLC The 2023 season proved to be a bustling period for

Next highlight on the fixture list was the encounter

the Army Women, marked by numerous fixtures

with Burnham & Berrow (B&B) Ladies, cherished

and a robust recruitment strategy aimed at

among players. Transitioning from the customary

bolstering our membership.

4BBB Matchplay to a Stableford format, B&B secured victory by a narrow margin after eight

As tradition dictates, our season commenced with a

fiercely contested matches.

spirited fixture against the Army GC women in Aldershot, offering AGA members and our budding

June witnessed a highly competitive fixture against

development players an immersive experience in

the

representative golf at a welcoming venue. Despite

Whitchurch. Despite adverse weather conditions

fiercely contested matches, we succumbed to a

necessitating the abandonment of the 4BBB on

formidable Army GC team, conceding the overall

day

match 3½ to ½.

permitted the completion of the eight singles

Police

one,

at

clear

Macdonald

skies

the

Hill

Valley

following

GC

in

morning

matches. Although Capt Megan Owen and WO1 The

Inter

Services,

postponed

to

April

2023

Vicky van Zyl showcased admirable performances

following the passing of Her Majesty Queen

after stepping up from the development squad, the

Elizabeth in September 2022, unfolded at Enville

Police emerged victorious with a 3-5 win.

GC. Aiming for a fifth consecutive victory, the Army Women

entered

with

I won’t steal the thunder from the Army Matchplay

unwavering confidence. However, the Royal Navy,

report, but it was great to see so many new players

bolstered by an influx of new talent, asserted

entering the competition. It was a first introduction

dominance in the foursomes, clinching their first

to Army Women’s golf for LCpl Michelle Bolten

Inter Service Championships in a decade. Special

(HAC) and Lt Molly Bean, who was also selected to

accolades

her

represent the Int Corps and took home some

inaugural selection to the Inter Service team,

silverware. Lt Col Alex O’Brien triumphed in the

earning her half colours.

Ladies’ Championship in her final year before

to

Musn

the

Championships

Justine

Stringer

for

departing the Army, a fitting conclusion to her In late April, a group of ten fortunate players, comprising

team

members,

tenure. Congratulations!

development

prospects, and AGA affiliates, embarked on a two-

The development team secured victory against

week overseas visit to Thailand. Originally slated

Tylney GC, with a first selection for LCpl Tegan

during the COVID pandemic, this tour was a

Smith. The committee, spearheaded by Maj Gina

highlight for all involved, offering unforgettable

Smith and notably SSgt Kim Glynn-Galbraith,

rounds on spectacular courses and memorable

deserves commendation for their hard work and

excursions. Our gratitude is extended to Lt Col Alex

tireless

O’Brien, her commitment to creating such an

recruitment through training days and recruitment

outstanding

her

events. Their dedication has yielded tangible results

unwavering support for Army Women's Golf, and

in attracting more women to the sport. In the

we are hugely grateful for her contributions.

upcoming season, collaboration with Corps Golf

opportunity

truly

exemplifies

efforts

in

driving

development

and

47

CAPTAIN’S (WOMEN) REPORT

Army Women’s Golf Tour 2023 - Thailand L to R: Daisy Mundy, Claire Ham, Alex O’Brien, Mary Woollard MBE, Emma Dann, Lizzy Chapman, Vicky van Zyl, Gina Smith, Mel van Zyl, Kirsty Kennedy

committees will be pivotal in advancing Women’s

Woodhall Spa hosted the 2023 Inter Service

golf development.

Championships,

and

our

Women’s

team,

determined to rebound after the April loss to the The penultimate fixture before the 2023 Inter

RN, delivered an outstanding performance. Day one

Service Championships took place against Eaton

saw Army vs RN, with our team securing the

Golf Club in Norwich, serving as an excellent warm-

morning session 2½-1½ and drawing the afternoon

up in the same format. Despite a tied score after

singles 4-4. The following day, the RAF faced off

the tightly contested foursomes, the Eaton Ladies

against the RN, resulting in a 6-6 draw. The decisive

surged ahead in the singles, eventually defeating us

match against the RAF began with a 2½-1½ lead in

by a single point.

the

morning

foursomes,

followed

by

a

commanding 5-3 performance in the afternoon singles, securing the Inter Service Championships win - a remarkable achievement! This victory marked a fitting conclusion for Lt Col Alex O’Brien and Maj Sue Lambert's Army Golf careers before their departure from service.

The season concluded with a memorable AGA dinner at the BT Tower in London, impeccably organized by Steve Davis and Diane Walters. It was heartening to witness the Army Golf community come together and be acknowledged for their contributions in such a prestigious setting. The evening culminated with SSgt Mel van Zyl receiving

her

colours

blazer,

SSgt

Kim

Glynn-Galbraith

awarded the Walters Trophy for Players’ Player of the Year, and Sgt Kirsty Kennedy recognised as Player of the Year, not only for her on-field

48

CAPTAIN’S (WOMEN) REPORT

BT Tower Dinner L to R: Kim Glynn-Galbraith, Kirsty Kennedy, Emma Dann, Gina Smith, Zoe Burrell-Knipe, Sue Lambert, Laura McLean, Mel van Zyl, Abigail Kennedy

performances but also for her unwavering support

her 17 years of dedicated service as the Ladies team

and commitment, even during injury setbacks.

Manager. It was indeed a remarkable year for Army

Additionally, special tributes were paid to Maj Sue

Women’s

Lambert

anticipates the exciting prospects of the upcoming

for

her

25

years

of

representative

commitment to Army Golf and to Diane Walters for

Golf,

and

my

committee

eagerly

season.

Sue Lambert Karen Fidell Emma Dann

Kim Glynn-Galbraith

Jonathan Lambert Mel van Zyl Alex O’Brien

Niki Sutton

Kirsty Kennedy

Claire Ham Mary Woollard MBE

Abigail Kennedy Zoe Burrell-Knipe Laura McLean

Beth Parker

Inter Service Championships 2023 at Woodhall Spa GC

49

REGIONAL REPORTS

AGA EASTERN

By Capt Chis Tate I write this report having completed my time as Eastern

region

secretary,

and

with

Event Two - 18 Hole - Strokeplay - Lakeside Lodge

possible

retirement looming, ready to hand over the reins to

A slightly lower turn out with 28 players teeing it up

WO1 John Butler. The Eastern region successfully

on another visit to Lakeside. I think it’s their

organized four events and fielded a team in the

hospitality that made us return and an outstanding

Inter Regional Championship. However, it is evident

full English to kick things off. Strokeplay is not

that the demanding nature of Army commitments

everyone’s favourite event, as there is nowhere to

and

have

hide in that format. As you can see by the results,

significantly impacted turnout. Nevertheless, we

only 3 players played to their handicaps or better,

remain hopeful for a slight increase in participation

against the par 72. Great effort.

the

ongoing

cost-of-living

crisis

this year. Our traditional Eastern region events, including

Stableford,

Strokeplay,

the

36-hole

Championships, and the coveted Bogey trophy, were all keenly contested.

Event One - 18 Holes - Stableford - Brampton For me, having remained COVID-free last year, it

3rd

Ind Div 2

P Spencer

Nett 73

3rd

Ind Div 1

A Cromwell

Nett 76

2nd

Ind Div 2

G Stones

Nett 71

2nd

Ind Div 1

W Ginn

Nett 76

1st 1st

Ind Div 2 Ind Div 1

D King A Anand

Nett 69 Nett 76

R Stratton

Nett 68

Overall Winner

was truly a pleasure to finally have the opportunity to play on the course. Despite the absence of the

Event Three - 36 Hole ERG Championship - Ely

adverse weather conditions we experienced in previous years - rain, sleet, and snow - participants

It’s been some time since the ERG has been to Ely

still faced formidable gusts exceeding 40-50mph,

City Golf Club and once we started playing we

alongside the invigorating exposure to fresh air. The

remembered why. Although not an over-long

year began on a positive note with 40 players in

course, it presents tight fairways with little room for

attendance,

exceptional

error. Precision off the tee is essential. Ely was very

performance of two players who achieved 40+

accommodating despite lower numbers. With only

points was truly outstanding and added to the

27 participants, they still allowed for a two-tee start,

overall excitement of the day.

ensuring we didn't finish in the dark as previously

and

witnessing

the

experienced.

3rd

Ind Div 2

K Taylor

34 pts

3rd

Ind Div 1

J Crossley

31 pts OCB

36 Hole Scratch Winner

Capt C Tate

2nd

Ind Div 2

I Piears

35 pts

36 Hole Scratch R-Up

Mr R Owen

2nd

Ind Div 1

W Ginn

31 pts OCB

36 Hole Div 1 Winner

Pte T Shaw

1st

Ind Div 2

R Cooper

40 pts

36 Hole Div 2 Winner

WO1 G Stones

1st

Ind Div 1

R Owen

32 pts

36 Hole Div 1 R-Up

Lt Col (Retd) Sanders

Overall Winner

J Butler

41 pts

36 Hole Div 2 R-Up

Sgt D Morton

50

REGIONAL REPORTS Inter Regional Championship The team for Worksop and the Inter Regional Championship remained a by-product of the year’s golfing and the top 6 of the Order Of Merit were selected

to

represent

the

Eastern

region.

Congratulations to the team of J Butler, M Seely, M Watkins, R Cooper, R Owen and P Taylor, who finished in a credible 2nd place.

Ron Owen happy with his Runner-Up result at Ely

Event Four - 18 Hole - Bogey Trophy - St Neots The second year of playing St Neots, and I believe WO1 Butler might be returning for a third. 28

R Cooper getting to grips with the greens

players returned and I am glad to say that it was as tricky as I remember it from the last year, to play for

Summary

the 150-year-old Bogey Trophy. There were a few

countback scenarios to decide the prize winners.

The Eastern region celebrates another successful

Although the course had recovered significantly

year, with c120 players participating across four

since the previous year, the greens were on the

events, in addition to fielding a team for the Inter

slow side which made life difficult all around and

Regional Championship. I would like to extend my

only 6 players beat it.

gratitude to all those who ventured out on to the

Div 2 R-Up

P Spencer

A/S

Div 1 R-Up

R Seely

1Up

Div 2 Winner

M Watkins

1Up

Div 1 Winner

A Stones

1Up

Bogey Third

C Gelder

1Up

Bogey R-Up

B Alderson

2Up

Ind Champion

I Piears

2Up

fairways, as well as to the unit reps whose ongoing efforts continue to encourage new members to experience

Regional

golf;

it’s

not

elitist

and

everyone is welcome. If you're reading this, you must have some interest in golf, so spread the word. We're on the lookout for more talent and individuals to nurture for the future, so please advertise as widely as possible. More information can be obtained from the AGA website.

L to R: T Shaw, M Rafferty, P Taylor, G Stones complete the year golfing at St Neots

Capt Tate handing over the reins of Eastern region to WO1 Butler(left)

51

REGIONAL REPORTS

AGA NORTH WEST

By WO2 Glen Riding Event 1 - St Annes Old Links

It was an all action day with double the on course prizes on offer for this last event so there was

There was a great turnout with 46 players teeing it

always something to go for. Pace of play is always

up in sunny, but challenging conditions, with winds

up from and centre with a field this large but we

gusting to 30mph.

managed to get everyone round, with the last group putting out on the 18th as the sun

The results were:

disappeared over the horizon. A great turnout and

Twos - Dave Holliday, Daz Holmes, Mark Roberts,

some great golf, a fantastic way to finish off the

Rob Barr, Adrian Bennett

2023 season on one of the North West’s premier

Longest Drive - Stephen Burke

courses.

Nearest the Pin - Rob Barr Best Gross - Adrian Bennett

The winner of the day’s event was Jase Moore who won with 40 points, he needed a back nine of 23

Nett results:

points to push Aidi Bennett into second place on

Champion - Adrian Bennett 45 pts

count back.

Runner-Up - Glen Riding 41 pts OCB 3rd - Rob Barr 41 pts

Summary

For the overall season competition, the format of using the best four scoring rounds from a possible six allows for lots of potential movement up and down the board on the final day. After all the scores were worked out, the results for the overall season competition were: Champion - Glen Riding 158 pts Runner-Up - Paul Nuttall 155 pts 3rd - Aidi Bennett 153 pts

Nett Champion Adrian Bennett (right)

Event 6 - Final - Formby The AGA NW’s season came to end in Sep 23 with its final event being played at Formby Golf Club. A total of 47 players teed it up with a large number of them still being in the chase for the top three

places for the overall season competition. After a week of wind and rain, the golfing gods smiled down on us again as they have done all season and gave us a perfect day of weather for golfing.

52

Overall NW Champion Glen Riding (left)

REGIONAL REPORTS

AGA NORTH EAST

By Maj Neil Bulmer The North East AGA 2023 season was entertaining

Thank you to all the clubs listed above for their

and varied. After a successful 2022 and the

support and understanding and keeping the cost

resurrection of North East Army golf, it became

of each event as low as possible.

apparent to me what a big area the North East of England is! Therefore last year’s events were not as

Final league position (top 5 ):

spread as the previous season, concentrating on a

Champion - WO2 Shane Corcoran 26 pts

more central area which evened out the travelling

Runner-Up - Mr Steve Thompson 25 pts

time for the vast majority of players.

3rd - Mr Simon Ellis 22 pts 4th - Mr David Wright 22 pts

The 23 season was made up of 6 league events, an

5th - WO2 Ian Owen 19 pts

NE grand final all playing their part in selecting the team for the Regional finals at Worksop in early September. There was a great mix of serving and veterans across all events, with the spoils also spread amongst each group. The average number of attendees across the season was 34 players and 31 people scored league points across all events.

The locations and winners are listed below: Event 1: Sandburn Hall GC - Sgt Danny Ray (with his only 40 plus score of the season) Event 2: Pike Hills GC - WO2 Ian Owen Event 3: Ripon City GC - SSgt Craig Dally

North East Champion 2023 - WO2 Shane Corcoran

Event 4: Scarthingwell GC - LCpl Dan Gibson Event 5: The Oaks GC - Mr Graeme Elstob

The format for 2024 season will be almost the same

Event 6: Easingwold GC - Mr Paul Barker

but with the top 15 gaining points at each event,

NE Grand Final: Catterick GC - Capt Scott

rather than the 10 as last year. The season will again

Dickinson

finish with a 27 hole grand final played for the final spot in the NE Regional team for Worksop. It would be great to get more players involved, so spread the word to those serving and your mates that have left the Army.

Neil ‘Sandy’ Sanderson sinking another birdie putt in the Grand Final

L to R: K Straw, L Williamson, G Gurung, L Whitbread

53

REGIONAL REPORTS

AGA SOUTH WEST

By Maj Steve Hickey Spring Meeting

best scores coming from the late starters. An early score of 39 points was posted by Brian Campbell,

The first SW meeting of the year was held at

who also secured a two. This score stood until the

Tidworth Golf Club on Tue 28 Mar 23. It was well

last few groups, where another two was posted, as

attended, with 42 players teeing off. There were a

well as another 39 points. However, Brian managed

few late entries, with thanks to Tidworth Golf Club,

to win the Nett competition on countback. The

they were able to participate.

Gross competition went to Tom Clark (1 handicap

and his home course), with 30 points, showing how The day started with the AGM, where the secretary

tricky the conditions were.

laid out his plans for the coming year and canvassed opinion on the venue and format for the

Our thanks go to Tidworth Golf Club. Lynda, Alan,

next few meetings. It was decided to use the AGA

Paul, and the team took excellent care of us, and

grant to offset the cost of prizes, matches, and the

we look forward to coming back next year. The date

Inter Regional Championship, and to use last year's

is already booked.

leftover funds to buy team mid-layer tops (one of

The longest drive was won by Adam Cartledge with

which was on display for everyone to see the type

a great drive into the wind on the 15th, and the

and quality). It was also decided that the Summer

nearest the pin by Arron Scott on the 13th, though

Meeting would be a 36-hole format, and that the

he didn't make the two.

current venue, Dorset Golf & Country Club, was not practical because of travel time and early start due

The winners were:

to course restrictions. Dorset will be used for the autumn/winter meeting once a date is confirmed

Nett

with the club.

Winner

Brian Campbell

39 pts OCB

Runner-Up

Bishal Rai

39 pts

The secretary asked for a volunteer to become the

3rd

Sabin Tamang

38 pts

4th

Anil Ghale

37 pts

Assistant Secretary and run the matches, as Paul Caviell, who had just taken up the role, was successful on the WO1 promotion board and is now posted outside the region. Our loss, but we're sure he'll

add

value

to

the

gaining

region.

We

congratulate Paul and wish him success in the

Gross Winner

Tom Clarke

30 pts

Runner-Up

James Page

27 pts

3rd

Dhanraj Limbu

24 pts OCB

4th

Scott Dunn

24 pts

future. There was a volunteer after the round, so we welcome Paul

Holford as

the new Assistant

Secretary. Thank you, and I'm sure the region will continue to support you in the role.

The spring meeting itself was a success, despite the rainy weather and strong winds, which made playing tricky. Nonetheless, shorts were spotted on the course.

The course was in good condition considering the recent heavy rain, with winter rules still in place. The early starters didn't fare as well as those who had a good 90 minutes to warm up. This paid off, with the

54

Gross Winner Tom Clarke

REGIONAL REPORTS Summer Meeting

The secretary did mention that anyone not winning a prize will automatically win the honour of

The summer meeting was held at the Bristol &

becoming the Assistant Secretary. However, as this

Clifton Golf Club on Thu 22 Jun 23. It was attended

was shared, the vacancy still exists. If anyone is

by 12 players, though there were quite a few late

interested, please let the secretary know as soon as

withdrawals. A big thanks to the Bristol & Clifton

possible.

Golf Club for being very understanding.

The winners were: The day started with bacon rolls and tea/coffee. Due to the low numbers, the club took orders for coffee, so plenty of fancy coffee in big glass cups was on display - beats the usual filter stuff (you can tell I’m not a coffee drinker).

The course had a parkland layout, with the front 9 having a few blind shots but very receptive greens.

The back 9 had hardly any blind shots, but some tricky holes. The course was in excellent condition

Stableford Winner

Runner Grewal

62 pts

Runner-Up

Reece Carless

60 pts

Nett

Winner

Jay Rochester

114 pts

Runner-Up

Ben Redstone

148 pts

Winner

Tom Clarke

Runner-Up

James Page

Gross

and proved a good test for us. At these events, there's usually banter about who holed the longest putt, etc. However, this time it was more about who scored the highest. "I had an 8," followed by, "I'll see your 8 and raise you to 11." The winner saw the 11 and raised it to 14. Don't worry, Lee, it's our secret.

The morning round saw the better scoring, with Runner Grewal playing to his handicap with 36 points, and Jay Rochester scoring a solid 34. In the afternoon, Jay matched his earlier 34, while Ben Redstone scored 33.

Jon Scammell putting out whilst Kev lines his up

The side competitions saw Ben securing the 2s pot as the only player to get one. It almost cost him

Winter Meeting

more, as his tee shot hit the flag and could’ve dropped in - it wasn’t even on the nearest the pin

The winter meeting was held at the Kingsdown

hole. However, he did win nearest the pin in the

Golf Club on Thu 17 Nov 23. It was attended by 16

morning, with Steve Hickey winning the afternoon

players teeing off. There were quite a few late

round. The longest drive in the afternoon went to

withdrawals and additions as the original date, 2

Bruce Sanderson, which was about 70 yards behind

Nov, was forecast as the day Storm Ciara would hit

the morning drive by Reece Carless, who hit a

the southwest. I made the decision to reschedule

monster shot and managed to keep it on the

two days before the event. The club was very

fairway.

accommodating and, as it turned out, the course was closed that day due to flooding.

The meeting was split into three competitions: Gross, Nett, and Stableford, with the rule that you

The day started with bacon rolls and tea/coffee.

can only win one prize.

With rain forecast, not many ventured out for a warm-up. The weather was much better than

Overall, despite the low turnout, the day was

expected, and although most players wore wet

excellent. The course, the food, and the staff all

weather gear at the start, they were able to discard

made the day enjoyable, making it a venue that we

it after a few holes. The course held up well, with

should consider again in the future.

the greens in good condition.

55

REGIONAL REPORTS The round saw some good scores despite the

Thanks to the AGA for the grant that helped offset

number of trees that were hit. That might have just

the costs and prizes, and finally to everyone from

been me! I was playing alongside Om Pun and

the region who was able to attend.

George Parsons. Both played steady golf. Om did well on the par 3s and had his name on two of the

The region, like others I'm sure, is extremely busy

three nearest the pin markers, only to be beaten by

for those

the last few groups. He blames me for sending him

challenge, especially at a price that's affordable to

out first, and in future, he wants to be in the last

younger participants and with the flexibility to

group.

make last-minute changes.

The side competitions saw only one 2, so Andy

The vacancy for the assistant secretary will be filled

Ballantyne secured the 2s pot. This event had

on a short-term basis by Jay Rochester, who kindly

nearest-to-the-pin on all three par 3s, with Uttam

volunteered as he has another year in Shrivenham.

Limbu closest on 4, Tek Rai on 14, and Bipendra Rai

The AGASW secretary role will be available next

on 17. Well done to the three of them. The longest

year, so if anyone is interested, please let the

drive on 11 was won by James Butler with a great

secretary know as soon as possible.

serving.

drive.

event is

Nett

The scoring, in general, was above handicap for most of the field, although a few players posted some

Organising an

excellent

scores.

The

competition

was

Stableford. Tek Rai scored 36 points to secure 3rd place in the Nett, George Parsons came second with 37 points, and Runner Grewal won the Nett

with a superb 41 points (after his exploits in the

Winner

Runner Grewal

41 pts

Runner-Up

George Parsons

37 pts

3rd

Tek Rai

36 pts

Gross Winner

Mick Shipp

29 pts

Runner-Up

Om Pun

27 pts

3rd

Andy Ballantyne

24 pts

summer meeting, where he won the Stableford, the handicap committee might be keeping an eye on him for the next event).

In the Scratch competition, Andy Ballantyne came 3rd with 24 points, Om Pun secured 2nd with 27 points, and the winner, with 29 points, was Mick Shipp. Congratulations to all the winners.

The day concluded with a two-course meal and the presentation ceremony. Thanks to Kingsdown Golf Club for hosting us; the course and greens were in excellent condition considering the time of year

Mick collecting the Scratch winner’s prize

and the amount of rain in the region over the last few months. The catering staff looked after us very well, and the food was just what was needed.

George Parsons & Om Pun on the 13th

56

Runner collecting the Nett winner’s prize

a

REGIONAL REPORTS SW vs Defence Academy at Shrivenham GC The first match of the season was against the Defence Academy at Shrivenham, where one of our regional members and former Assistant Secretary, Marcus Murcott, is the current Club Captain. A big thank you to the eight players who competed in this match, to Scott for captaining the team, and to Shrivenham GC for hosting us. The result wasn't particularly close, but the real winner was golf.

The team against the Defence Academy

SW vs Sherbourne GC at Tidworth GC

SW vs Kingsdown GC at Kingsdown GC

The second match of the season was played

The final match of the season was against

against Sherborne GC at Tidworth GC. The game

Kingsdown GC at Kingsdown GC. The team was

was played in great spirits and was a close-run

captained by Tek Rai. The day went really well, and

event, with the SW region coming out on top.

the result was in our favour. Thanks to the club and

Thanks to Steve Canning for captaining the team

its members for hosting, and we look forward to

and to Tidworth GC for hosting us.

playing again next season.

AGA SOUTH EAST

By WO2 Matt Priston Winter Champs - Test Valley GC - 24 Apr 23

everyone eagerly awaited the end of Gaz Gurung's round to see if we stood a chance against a

With the original date in March postponed due to

phenomenal +2 golfer. Unfortunately for the field,

heavy snowfall on the day of the event, the field of

Gaz's talent was clear for all to see, carding

32 players took advantage of the soft conditions on

a 3 under 67.

a mild yet damp April day to record some good scores.

Spring Champs - Hoebridge GC - 28 Jun 23

With impressive scores coming into the clubhouse,

With the delay to the winter event, the spring event

and a personal best of 4 over gross by yours truly,

was pushed right in the calendar into June.

However, this worked to the region's benefit; there's no better feeling than teeing off on a warm, sunny

day.

Unfortunately,

a

reduced

field

competed for the title of Spring Champion due to a number

of

withdrawals

because

of

unit

commitments.

That didn’t stop the field of 21 players from putting on a competitive show. A tight grouping of scores made for early entertainment in the clubhouse for much of the afternoon until Trevor's exceptional score of 41 Stableford points, 4 points clear of 2nd

place. Trevor is a veteran member of the region and a regular at events, exemplifying the important link Winter Champion - SSgt Gajendra ‘Gaz’ Gurung

between serving and veteran participation. A very worthy winner.

57

REGIONAL REPORTS Inter Regional Championship Where do I start? What a team, and what a fantastic two days! The event began with a long drive up to Worksop for a practice round on day one, followed by a second practice round for the team to familiarise themselves with the course, especially the undulating and fast greens. Worksop GC has seen many top golfers call it home, notably Lee Westwood; reminders of which are displayed throughout the clubhouse.

The course is a thorough test of golf for all abilities,

and the practice rounds were certainly needed to

Spring Champion - Mr Trevor Gregg

ensure

the

team

had

the

best

chance

of

performing in the championship the following day.

Summer Champs - Oxford GC - 29 Aug 23 The day started with an 18-hole pairs greensome On what seemed to be another warm, sunny day,

Stableford. With all pairs scoring well, we were well-

the region visited Oxford Golf Club for the summer

positioned to make a run for the title after a short

championships,

a

lunch break. The afternoon saw players compete in

Strokeplay format with prizes for Gross and Nett

this

time

competing

in

an 18-hole individual Stableford format, with the

scores. Oxford Golf Club, not to be confused with

best five scores from a team of six counting toward

the Oxfordshire, is a hidden gem of a course, always

the overall team score.

in fantastic condition. It's a risk-and-reward course, forcing you to carefully choose when to attack.

Shortly after the conclusion of all rounds and as the sun set, the AGA committee completed the scoring

From a field of 35 players, Justin Revell walked away

and announced the final standings of the regional

with 1st place in the Nett category, shooting 66 (84

teams. With the team scores being announced in

gross). However, the Summer Champion, by a clear

reverse order, and still awaiting our region to be

margin, was Mick Shipp, who comfortably finished

called, it soon came time to announce the winners.

8 shots clear of 2nd place with a gross level-par

After what was described as an extremely close

round of 70.

competition, the Southeast was crowned Regional

Summer Champion - WO1 Mick Shipp

58

L to R: LCpl C Weir, WO2 P Simpson, SSgt A Bird, WO2 M Priston, SSgt C Butler, WO2 J Lucas

REGIONAL REPORTS Champions, winning by the slimmest of margins.

Winter Champs - Weybrook Park GC - 18 Mar 24

Cue the celebrations and beaming smiles from the whole team. So happy was the team that not even

The largest field in a while saw 48 players teeing off

the closure of the M1, causing a 90-minute detour

at Weybrook Golf Club near Basingstoke, with a mix

on the drive home, could dampen our spirits.

of

regional

stalwarts,

newcomers,

and

AGA

committee members. After enjoying hot baps and A huge thank you must go to Bob Gamble OBE,

brews in the clubhouse, everyone began warming

Steve Davis, Keith Seddon, and Chris Bartley at the

up in preparation for a very competitive and

AGA for putting on a fantastic event, one which I

overcast winter's day.

encourage everyone to aspire to represent their region in.

With Gross and Nett prizes up for grabs, in addition to the on-course prizes, the field started to attack

Retaining the title next year will surely be tough,

the course right from the first hole, with an uphill

but I believe the region has the talent to do just

par 5 into the wind. Nikki Sutton embodied this

that.

aggressive mentality on the par 3 11th, hitting a short iron just to the right of the pin, only for it to

Autumn Champs - Hurtmore GC - 15 Nov 23

spin left off the slope and narrowly miss a hole-inone. Thankfully, Nikki made the birdie putt and

A windy yet attackable Hurtmore Golf Club hosted

walked away as the sole recipient of the twos pot.

the Autumn Championship. An ideal location for autumn or winter golf, the course presented

As the scorecards came in, it was clear that both the

challenges for all abilities. The field of 32 players

Gross and Nett competitions were going to be close

consisted of seasoned regulars and new members

-run affairs, with both eventually being decided by

of the region.

countback. Lee Fuller emerged victorious over

Sanjay

Ghale

with

a

Nett

70.

In

the

gross

The wind played havoc with everyone's shots all

competition, reigning champion Gaz Gurung put

day, causing even the straightest of drives to be

up a fight but was beaten into 1st place by James

pushed off the fairway and reducing driveable par

Watson, both carding a 76 gross, with James being

4s to a drive and a short iron or wedge. However,

crowned the Winter Champion on countback.

this didn’t stop most of the field from carding scores in the mid-30s, with a few vying for top spot

A huge thank you to all who attended, and I hope to

on 37 points. That was until Nathan Murrin rolled

see everyone at the next event. Let's see if we can

into the clubhouse, beaming with a score of 41

break the 50-player mark. Thank you also to the

points, a clear winner and Autumn Champion. A

AGA Vice Chair, Lt Col (Retd) Bob Gamble OBE, for

solid round from Nathan prompted the customary

attending and presenting the prizes.

calls of 'bandit' and jokes about a potential handicap review on the England Golf system.

Autumn Champion - WO2 Nathan Murrin

Winter Champion - Cpl James Watson

59

REGIONAL REPORTS The 2023 season also saw members of the region attending several events outside of the region's normal schedule. Of note are the match against the On Course Foundation at Woburn Golf Club on the Duke's Course, the Quill & Club Trophy at Mill Ride Golf Club, the OP CHRISTMAS BOX Charity Golf Day at Ash Valley Golf Club, and numerous AGA majors, plus individual corps/regimental events and tours.

The 2024 season is shaping up to be an exciting one, and with participation growing; it’s a great time to be a member of the region and the AGA. Although costs for golf days are rising in line with

the cost of living, my aim remains to execute regional events with value for money in mind, while

AGA team L to R: WO1 G Wilkinson, WO2 P Simpson, WO2 M Priston, Capt M Rajali

also moving the location around the region to share the burden of travel.

AGA WEST MIDLANDS

By SSgt Ishwor Pun Matchplay Competition

plate. After 18 holes of competitive rounds, Capt

Welton won the match 3&2, and WO2 Claire won The 2023 WM Matchplay final for the winner and

the plate 2&1. It was a lovely day with beautiful

plate winner was held at the Forest of Arden Golf

weather and great company.

and Spa Hotel on 30 Aug 23. It was played in an 18-hole matchplay format. Initially, there were 11 players at the start, but it came down to the final four: Capt Welton against Sgt Gurung for the main match, and WO2 Claire against Mr Wood for the

WO2 Ham securing her Matchplay Plate

Inter Regional Championship On 5 and 6 Sep, Inter Regional Championship was held at the Worksop Golf Club. Following careful team selection, a six-person team from the West Midlands region, representing several cap badges

and led by myself, competed in the event. The team battled valiantly and finished with a solid 264 WM Matchplay Winner - Capt Welton

60

points, but they were unable to secure a podium finish.

REGIONAL REPORTS Autumn Meeting

Winter Meeting

On 14 Sep 23, the autumn meeting was held at the

On 30 Nov 23, the winter meeting took place at

Chase Golf and Country Club. Twenty serving and

Ingestre Park Golf Club. Out of 15 serving and

retired personnel from across the West Midlands

retired personnel from across the West Midlands,

participated. Despite the weather conditions, the

Cpl Suraj Gurung stood out among the players,

event was a success. Everyone who attended

scoring 24 points to win the competition. As

seemed to enjoy the day. The competition was

expected in the winter months, the weather was

organised in an 18-hole Stableford format. Despite

quite challenging and cold, with some frost. The

the weather, the scores were impressive, with Capt

course, which had to limit the number of playable

Gurung scoring 39 points to win the AGA WM

holes due to the weather, still provided a good test

Autumn Meeting 23 Trophy.

for the participants.

Autumn Meeting Winner - Capt Bhupal Gurung

Autumn Meeting Winner - Capt Bhupal Gurung

AGA WALES

By WO2 Mal Burn Season Open Meeting - 26 Mar 23

gem, offering stunning views of the Shropshire Hills, the Brecon Beacons, and the Malverns, at least

After the winter break, the opening golfing event of

when the low clouds cleared. There were a couple

the year took place at Herefordshire Golf Club. This

of temporary greens, but the course was in good

event was quickly organised by the Captain of Flash

condition. The golf was competitive, but the banter

& Hackle, Rick O’Shea. This new course was one

was even better. The match was closely contested

where the AGA had never played before, giving

and nail-biting to the end. Each team won four

Flash & Hackle the upper hand from the start. Eight

games, resulting in a tie, and the final result was

fourballs, with 16 players from each team, played a

determined by the cumulative scores of all pairs.

betterball pairs competition to see who would win

AGA Wales won the event by a single point - what a

this first ever meeting between former soldiers &

close fight! Thanks must go to Rick O’Shea for

officers of the R Welsh and RRW, and AGA Wales.

organising

the

event,

and

to

everyone

who

attended.

Even

though

the

weather

had

been

very

unpredictable over the last couple of weeks, today

Spring Meeting - 19 May 23

was no different - wet, misty, and generally miserable. The round began just as the rain was

The spring event took place at Ashburnham Golf

tapering off. The course turned out to be a hidden

Club, a stunning location just outside the small

61

REGIONAL REPORTS town of Burry Port, on the Carmarthenshire coast.

Inter Regional Championship

It is one of the finest Championship Links courses in Britain and is currently rated the 6th best course

The above event was held at Worksop Golf Club on

in Wales. On a cloudy and occasionally blustery day,

6 Sep 23, with teams comprising six AGA Wales

31 golfers descended on this beautiful course for an

members.

18-hole Stableford competition from the yellow and red tees. The course itself was in immaculate

Format of Play

condition, thanks to the great weather over the previous weeks. With beautiful fairways and fast,

AM – 18 Hole Pairs Greensomes Stableford:

true greens, high scores were expected. There were

a)

some excellent scores, but some not-so-great ones,

Both players drive, choose one drive, then alternate play until completion of the hole.

including a notable performance from Rick O’Shea.

b)

All three team pairs' scores count.

A great day out nonetheless. The results were as

c)

Handicap allowance is 60% of the lowest

follows:

handicap and 40% of the highest.

Champion - Mark Cadman 39 pts

Geordie Fernandez & Peter Moses - 38 pts

Runner-Up - Kim Burn 37 pts OCB

Mario Roffi & Mark Cadman - 36 pts

3rd - Ryan Williams 37 pts

Andy Johnson & Andy McGuffie - 31 pts

Nearest the Pin 13th - Nigel Evans

Total points: 105 - placed 2nd (leaders 107 points).

Nearest the Pin 16th - Martin Anthony PM – 18 Hole Stableford Strokeplay off full handicap Summer Meeting - 27 Jul 23

(handicap limit 20), with teams of six players and the five best scores counting:

The third event of the year took place at my home

course, Coed-Y-Mwstwr Golf Club. This is a highly

Andy McGuffie - 37 pts

recommended parkland course set on the hills

Mark Cadman - 35 pts

overlooking Bridgend and the former Ford Factory.

Geordie Fernandez - 32 pts

Golfers arrived to a gloomy and drizzly start to the

Peter Moses - 31 pts

day, but a hearty bacon roll and copious amounts of

Mario Roffi - 26 pts

coffee helped lift the spirits. The golf, an 18-hole

Andy Johnson - 24 pts (not counted)

Stableford

Total points: 161 points.

competition

from

the

yellow

tees,

eventually got underway. The course was in great condition, with smooth greens that were slightly

Wales finished 3rd overall on countback with 266

slower than previous events. As the weather

points.

improved, the golf also picked up, with many good scores being recorded. Notably, Shady, who had

It was a great effort, and we're looking forward to

been on a 15 handicap for 10 years, scored an

participating again in 2024.

impressive 40 points despite only playing twice in 2023. After the round, everyone enjoyed a fantastic

Autumn Meeting - 29 Sep 23

two-course meal. As Chair, I said a fond farewell to Mr Len Green, whom I have known for the past

The autumn event took place at Llanishen Golf Club

12 years, as he is retiring from Army Golf due to his

in the north of Cardiff. Founded in 1905, it is highly

young age of 73. The results were as follows:

regarded for its friendly atmosphere. Caerphilly Mountain provides a beautiful backdrop, and

Champion - Shady Kent 40 pts

golfers can enjoy spectacular views across the

Runner-Up - Lewis Edwards 38 pts OCB

Bristol Channel towards the Somerset coast. On

3rd - Nick Summerhayes 38 pts

arrival, we were greeted with fantastic service and

4th - Kim Burn 37 pts OCB

whisked away to our own function room, where we

Nearest the Pin 4th - Clive Cole

watched the commencement of the Ryder Cup on

Nearest the Pin 11th - Craig Samuel

a large screen while enjoying bacon rolls and coffee. The competition for the day was an 18-hole

62

REGIONAL REPORTS Stableford event from the yellow/red tees. The

Following a hearty bacon roll, the competition for

course, though not very long, required precise

the day was an 18-hole Stableford event from the

course management. If you knew the course well,

yellow/red tees. The conditions didn't seem to

you'd know which club to use. Despite the wet

dampen the golfers' spirits, as there were some

weather in recent weeks, the course was in

excellent scores. I must congratulate Nigel Evans

immaculate condition with perfectly true-running

for winning the event with 37 points on countback.

greens. There were some excellent scores, and I

We also had a hole-in-one on the 16th by Doug

must congratulate Rick O’Shea for winning the

Pratt, but he had to leave before the presentation,

event with 40 points. Well done!

perhaps to avoid buying a round of drinks! Well done. The results were as follows:

Champion - Rick O’Shea 40 pts Runner-Up - Geoff Banham 37 pts OCB

Champion - Nigel Evans 37 pts OCB

3rd - Darren Smith 37 pts OCB

Runner-Up - Mike Denton 37 pts OCB

4th - Pete Poses 37 pts OCB

3rd - Mal Burn 36 pts

Nearest the Pin 9th - Martin Lilygreen

Nearest the Pin 6th - Mike Denton

Nearest the Pin 16th - Ben Read

Nearest the Pin 14th - Stuart Pratt

Longest Drive 17th - Andrew Ward (with a 3 wood)

Longest Drive 18th - Stuart Pratt

Twos - Darren Wood

Twos - Mal Burn, Stuart Pratt, Doug Pratt, Stuart Ferguson, Mike Denton, Paul Hicks

Winter Meeting - 6 Dec 23 Closing Note The final event of the year took place at Celtic Manor Resort and Golf Club, Roman Road Course,

As Chair, Secretary, and gofer, I want to personally

just outside Newport. Given the recent heavy

thank all the golfers who have attended each of the

rainfall, the event was initially in doubt, but thanks

golf events and supported AGA (Wales). It's been a

to the hard work of the green staff, the course was

difficult year for me, but through thick and thin, I've

opened in time. The greens and tee boxes were

enjoyed meeting you all and sharing many happy

immaculate, but elsewhere, conditions were still

moments, as well as the typical ups and downs of

quite wet, leading some golfers to suggest that the

golf - a funny old game. There is light at the end of

course should remain closed. There were many lost

the tunnel. Personally, a big thank you must go to

balls, even those landing on the fairways. Despite

my wife, who has assisted me with the organisation

the challenging conditions, 32 golfers turned out to

on the day. I look forward to seeing you all in 2024.

support the event and complete the course.

Happy golfing!

AGA SCOTLAND

By Capt Kenny Wilson MBE Spring Meeting

compete within their own categories. Prizes were also awarded for the longest drive and nearest the

The spring meeting was held at Stirling GC on

pin. The competition was fierce, and scoring was

27 Apr 23. The event attracted a field of 92

high in near-perfect conditions. The scores from the

competitors, including four female participants and

three divisions reflected the quality of the golf

representatives from both the Royal Navy and the

played and the excellent condition of the course.

RAF.

The results were as follows:

Stirling provided a spectacular backdrop for this

Division 1

event, with the course situated at the foot of Stirling

Winner - David Grant 38 pts OCB

Castle and the Wallace Monument. The field was

2nd - Craig Sillars 38 pts

divided into three divisions, allowing competitors to

3rd - Reece Sibley 36 pts

63

REGIONAL REPORTS Division 2

Division 1 (Nett)

Winner - Gary Currie (40 pts)

Winner - Ken Scott (68 pts OCB)

2nd - Dave Milne (37 pts OCB)

2nd - David Grant (68 pts)

3rd - Grant Weatherston (37 pts)

3rd - Jonny Stevenson (64 pts)

Division 3

Division 2 (Nett)

Winner - David Murdoch (43 pts)

Winner - Jake Watson (80 pts)

2nd - Thomas Jeffery (42 pts)

2nd - Dougie Morgan (70 pts OCB)

3rd - Billy Raitt (39 pts OCB)

3rd - Bob Lond (70 pts)

Nearest the Pin - Andy Kennan

Division 3 (Nett)

Longest Drive - Lloyd Jones

Winner - Gary Haldane (69 pts OCB) 2nd - Billy Rait (69 pts)

3rd - Alex Watson (68 pts) Nearest the Pin Bruce - Alex Watson Longest Drive Bruce - Kenny Wilson Nearest the Pin Montgomery - Rory McIntyre Longest Drive Montgomery - Neal Allardice

Brig (Retd) Tony Duncan and WO1 David Grant

Summer Meeting The summer meeting was held at Kinross GC on 19 Jul 23. The event attracted a field of 68 players, both male and female, from all over Scotland, featuring a mix of serving and veteran golfers.

Kinross GC is an excellent venue, providing the perfect setting for a 36-hole competition with its two golf courses, the Bruce and the Montgomery.

This event includes both a Nett and a Gross Stableford competition, allowing golfers of any standard to compete within their own divisions. The highest gross Stableford score would determine the winner of the coveted title of Scotland

Gross Winner - Chris Paterson

Champion 2023. Both courses were in great condition, with the Montgomery proving to be the

Autumn Meeting

trickier of the two, as reflected in the scoring, due to its tight fairways and undulating greens. However,

The autumn meeting was held at the prestigious

scoring was high overall, with results below:

Dumbarnie Links Golf Course on 18 Oct 23. The event was supported by 100 golfers, both male and

Gross

female, from across Scotland, including serving

Winner - Chris Paterson (67 gross pts)

personnel, veterans, and guests from the AGA,

2nd - David Gutcher (63 gross pts)

Royal Navy, and RAF. The AGA was represented by

3rd - Brian Gilfillan (59 gross pts)

Lt Col (Retd) Bob Gamble OBE, Vice Chair AGA, and

64

REGIONAL REPORTS Chris Bartley, AGA Committee, who supported the

Match - On Course Foundation vs AGA Scotland

event. Their engagement with players and staff throughout

the day

was

greatly appreciated,

The inaugural match between Scotland and the On

demonstrating the AGA's investment in the wider

Course

Foundation

(OCF)

took

place

at

the

Army Golf community.

stunning Blairgowrie Golf Club on 17 Aug 23. The event featured two teams of eight players from the

Dumbarnie Links was a fitting venue for Scotland’s

Scotland and OCF.

final major event of the season, with its exceptional design and spectacular views. The course was in

The Scotland Secretary was approached by Mr Will

immaculate condition, the hospitality was flawless,

Barker, Head of Funding for the OCF, early in the

and the facilities were what one would expect from

season to arrange a friendly match between

a top venue in Scotland – an absolute treat! This

Scotland and OCF. The primary goal of the event

was a Stableford event offering equal opportunity

was to build relationships, create friendships, and

for all participants within their respective divisions.

support the OCF in a golf setting.

The typical protection for Links courses comes from the Scottish weather, and Dumbarnie Links was no

The

exception. Conditions were challenging, with winds

Lansdowne course, renowned for its scenic beauty

gusting up to 40-50 mph. However, this did not

and well-maintained layout, winding through pine

dampen spirits, though it may have affected

and silver birch trees. The event was a great

scoring

success,

somewhat.

Nevertheless,

a

few

very

match

was

played

fulfilling

its

on

main

Although

the

goal

the

picturesque

of

fostering

respectable scores were posted, as reflected in the

relationships.

results below:

secondary to the event's primary aim, Scotland

competition

was

team emerged as the clear winner. We are looking Division 1

forward to further engagement with the OCF and a

Winner - David Gutcher (39 pts)

return match this summer. For more information

2nd - Alan Kelly (37 pts)

about the OCF and the remarkable work they do in

3rd - Brian Innes (36 pts)

supporting the recovery of wounded, injured, and sick Service personnel and veterans through golf

Division 2

and employment in the golf industry, visit the On

Winner - Gary Currie (39 pts)

Course Foundation website.

2nd - Colin Beattie (37 pts OCB) 3rd - John Gillie (37 pts) Division 3 Winner - Danny Watson (37 pts) 2nd - Thomas Jeffery (34 pts) 3rd - Graham Bell (33 pts OCB)

group photo

Nearest the Pin - Campbell Falconer Longest Drive - Barry Haldane

Match - Royal Navy vs AGA Scotland The annual match against the Royal Navy was held at Hilton Park Golf Club on 14 Sep 23. This gem of a golf club is nestled within the hills and forests of the Trossachs,

offering

spectacular

views

of

the

gateway to the Scottish Highlands.

The match was played over 36 holes, utilising the two beautifully prepared courses available; the Brig (Retd) Tony Duncan and Dave Gutcher

Hilton and the Allander. The contest between the Royal Navy and the Army is always fiercely

65

REGIONAL REPORTS competitive, and last year was no different. With

secure a respectable 3rd place. However, next year,

the scores level at the halfway point, there was

we might need to consider fielding a younger

everything to play for in the afternoon's singles

team, as three rounds in two days proved to be a bit

matches. Both teams were vying for the bragging

much for some of our players.

rights, and the second round was equally intense.

In the end, the Army prevailed, recording a 14–10 point victory.

The match was played in the true spirit of the game, with both teams demonstrating the highest levels of sportsmanship and respect for each other.

As the home team next year, the Army looks forward to hosting the Royal Navy for what

promises to be another epic duel.

L to R: G Watson, B Innes ,D Grant, K Wilson MBE, G Perry, S Campbell

Team Texas Scramble The final event of the year was held at St. Michaels Golf Club on 15 November 2023. The aim of this event was to recognise all AGA(S) members for their contributions and support throughout the season and to present awards to those fortunate enough to win a prize.

With a field of 72 players, the event was again admirably supported by the membership. The theme of the day was fun and team cohesion in a Frank Dodson and Stuart Campbell

warm and welcoming setting. St. Michaels provided the perfect backdrop, with its friendly staff and a beautifully laid-out course. The Texas Scramble

Inter Regional Championship

format is always enjoyable and allows members to build friendships and foster relationships with

The Inter

Regional Championship was held at

others in the society.

Worksop Golf Club on 6 Sep 23. This is an event that everyone looks forward to because it provides an

Overall, this was another highly successful event

opportunity to reunite with old friends from various

and a fitting end to a brilliant season. We are

regions. Last year, our team comprised George

looking forward to next season, where we hope to

Watson (in his final week of service), Brian Innes,

offer

Dave Grant, Kenny Wilson, Stuart Campbell, and

opportunities to play some of the best courses that

Gordon Perry. With a combined team age well over

Scotland has to offer. The committee would like to

320 years and no Veterans class, we knew we had a

express their sincere thanks to the membership for

tough challenge ahead, especially considering that

their continued support and commitment to Army

after the long drive down from Scotland and the

Golf in Scotland.

the

membership

new

practice round on Tuesday afternoon, the team dinner consisted of paracetamol and ibuprofen, washed down with a glass of red wine.

The hospitality shown by the members and staff at Worksop was exceptional and, as always, the course was set up to offer a good test of skill for all competitors. Despite the obstacles, we managed to

66

group photo

and

exciting

REGIONAL REPORTS

AGA CYPRUS

By WO2 Christopher Andrew Gamon First of all I would like to thank all those who have played and taken part in each event in Cyprus last year. We have had a total of 43 players participate in all five competitions played throughout the year, with each event featuring between 22 and 28 players. These events would not be possible without the support of everyone who participates

in each round, and I am profoundly grateful for their contributions. Long may this continue.

2023 has been a wonderful year for golf in Cyprus, with competitions held on all grass courses on the island. The season culminated in a two-day event at Secret Valley Golf Resort. The year began with the winter

meeting

in

January

at

the

18-hole

championship golf course at Aphrodite Hills Resort, which has achieved the prestigious PGA National Cyprus designation. This event was the first

competition of the calendar year, and twenty-two golfers braved not-so-wintery conditions of 24 degrees. WO2 Danny Wilson (1 LANCS) took the spoils, earning the first win of the season and

CSgt Kyle Cooper and Capt Scott Dickinson

setting himself up for a strong shot at the Cyprus National Order of Merit (NOOM) over the year. To qualify for the NOOM, golfers needed to submit four cards from various events throughout the year, with the top four scores from the six matches played determining the winners. Stableford scores only.

The spring meeting was held at Secret Valley Golf Resort, a prestigious course located near “Petra tou Romiou” the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. This event took place in March, with a full field of 28 golfers. Despite the tough greens and challenging slopes, CSgt Jordan Hoe (1 LANCS) won the Nett, while WO2 Philip Piercy (Dhekelia Station) won the Stableford, both playing off six handicap.

The Cyprus Open was held at Minthis Hills Golf Course, a beautiful and demanding course that

winds through a 12th-century monastery, offering breathtaking views of the Troodos Mountains. This Cpl Steve Farnworth and Capt Scott Dickinson

event, played in June, is renowned for its shade and cooler temperatures, owing to the higher altitude

67

REGIONAL REPORTS

NOOM Winner - CSgt Loz Lightbown

Finals Nett Winner - CSgt Loz Lightbown

and plentiful trees. Mr Ian Berry won the Nett event,

Ultimately, CSgt Loz

while Capt Mark Wilson (1 LANCS) won the

Cyprus AGA NOOM title for 2023 with 157 pts, with

Stableford,

WO2 Chris Gamon in second place with 153 pts, and

beating

WO2

Phil

Edwards

(BFC

Episkopi Station) on countback.

Lightbown clinched

the

Cpl Steve Farnworth (1 LANCS) in third with 150 pts.

Worth mentioning is Capt Ramsden (1 LANCS) in

In August, the summer meeting took place at Eléa

fourth place with 148 pts, and WO2 Danny Wilson in

Golf Club, a premier venue with a challenging Par

fifth place with 144 pts.

71 course designed by the legendary Sir Nick Faldo.

Known for its numerous bunkers and strategic

Thank

you

all

for

your

continued

support

layout, Eléa Golf Club is one of the most demanding

throughout the season. I look forward to seeing you

courses on the island. Capt Ramsden (1 LANCS) won

all and many more fresh faces in the new year for

the Nett, while CSgt Loz Lightbown (1 LANCS) won

the first fixture of the 2024 season.

the Stableford.

CSgt Loz Lightbown’s closing address (2IC) The 2-day finals were held at Secret Valley Golf Resort in October. This event comprised both Nett

A perfect account of the events over last year’s

and Stableford competitions over two days, with

highly successful golf season with the AGA Cyprus,

the overall NOOM winner announced on the final

none of which would have been possible without

day. The first day saw Cpl Steven Farnworth (1

the swift revival by WO2 Chris Gamon. COVID

LANCS) win the Nett, while CSgt Loz Lightbown (1

greatly impacted AGA Cyprus, leading to no events

LANCS) took the Stableford. The second day was

for over a year, but WO2 Chris Gamon worked

fiercely contested, with WO2 Chris Gamon (1

tirelessly to reconnect the British Forces Cyprus

LANCS) winning the Nett and CSgt Loz Lightbown

(BFC) golfing community. The appetite for forces

(1 LANCS) winning the Stableford. The overall results

golf in Cyprus is strong again, and I'm sure I speak

for the 2-day event were Nett: CSgt Loz Lightbown

for everyone when I say a huge thank you to WO2

(1 LANCS) and Stableford: WO2 Chris Gamon (1

Chris Gamon and congratulations on a very

LANCS).

successful season. Long may it continue!

68

CORPS REPORTS

INFANTRY

By Capt Scott Dickinson As we entered my second year as the lead for

at Belton Park GC, with eight players selected to

Infantry

of

represent the Infantry. Unfortunately, the result

identifying new players to compete at the Corps

didn't go our way, with a narrow 5-3 loss, though

level began. Fortunately, we are happy to report

the talent in our ranks was evident. A big thanks to

that

WO2 Ian Mahan for running and captaining the

a

Golf,

few

the

post-season

players

have

challenges

either

re-entered

representative golf or played for the Infantry for the

team during this fixture.

first time. Last season saw the newly installed Inter Corps league, adding to the golf calendar and

Our second Inter Corps fixture was against the RE

allowing the Committee to rotate players and bring

at Newbury and Thatcham GC. Due to various

in fresh talent at the Infantry level.

ongoing commitments, we decided to "break glass

in case of emergency" and brought back some Infantry golf has lost a couple of players to "civvy

experienced players, mixed with regulars. It was a

street" last year: Maj Cliff McAulay MBE and WO2

welcome

return

for

Maj

Benedict

Toomey,

Gary Waugh. Both have played for the Infantry numerous times, contributing not only their golfing prowess but also their good old-fashioned Scottish humour. We wish them well in their future endeavours.

The addition of the AGA Inter Corps league has created a busier golfing calendar. The Infantry was placed in Division 1 with five scheduled matches, setting them up for the Inter Corps Championship at Saunton. The first match was against the R SIGS

2023 Infantry Inter Corps team

Cpl Steve Farnworth never downloaded the weather app coming from Cyprus

69

CORPS REPORTS Maj Chinbahadur Thapa, Capt John Donaldson, and Capt Al Ahern. Special mention goes to Sgt (now CSgt) Kyle Cooper, who played while on leave in the UK from Cyprus! CSgt Andy Cromwell also deserves credit for organising and captaining the side. The plan worked, as the Infantry eased to a 6-2 victory.

Our third fixture, against the AGC, was played at Catterick, a home ground for the Infantry. Using local players, the Infantry once again secured a victory, winning 5.5 to 2.5 points. A big thanks to 4 SCOTS, who comprised most of the team.

The R IRISH lads always willing to travel

Our final two fixtures were away matches. The RA

parkland and heathland - known as a lowland

hosted us at Tidworth GC, their home course. It was

heath style - which provided a challenging track for

a closely contested affair with two good sides,

all levels of golfers. The event was supported by 73

resulting in a 4-4 draw, reflecting the high standard

Infanteers, including veterans and reserve players.

of play. The final fixture was hosted by the RLC at

Besides the main prize for the Infantry Strokeplay

Thirsk & Northallerton GC. For this match, we

Champion, there were also Individual Stableford,

brought out the "big guns" topping the team with

team Gross, and team Stableford competitions

as many low-handicap golfers as possible. It was a

running concurrently, along with an additional

high-standard competition, but unfortunately, we

Veterans prize. The event faced some tough

narrowly lost 3-5 points. Throughout the year, we

conditions with changing weather, and day two

used at least 27 players across these fixtures.

brought

swirling

winds

that

affected

scores.

Nevertheless, LCpl Jonny Stevenson held his nerve, The flagship event of the Infantry golfing calendar

shooting a quality 72 and maintaining his position

is the Infantry Strokeplay Championships, held at

at the top of the field to be crowned the Infantry

York GC in July 2023. The course is a serene blend of

Strokeplay Champion. Capt Scott Dickinson fought through the field on day two to finish runner-up for the second consecutive year, one shot ahead of Capt Kumar Purja Pun and Sgt Jhamak Limbu.

Running concurrently with the Strokeplay were the Infantry Stableford Championship, the Infantry Gross & Stableford team events, and a Veterans category. With a large field of 73 players, the competition was intense. It's worth noting that there was a 7-point spread between the second and nineteenth places in the Stableford event, underscoring the competitive nature of the event.

Notable newcomers included LCpl Manmohan Ale, who took first place in the Stableford with 74 points, and runner-up Capt Mukunda Rajali with 72 points.

A special mention goes to the RGR, who came all the way from Brunei to attend, and units from

Northern

Ireland,

highlighting

the

logistical

challenge of attending the event. The RGR's effort Infantry Champion - LCpl Jonny Stevenson

70

paid off as they were crowned winners of the team Stableford Competition with a total of 201 points,

CORPS REPORTS edging out 1 RANGER with 198 points. The team

Prime, and LCpl Jonny Stevenson all achieving

Gross winners were the QD team, beating the

representation. Additionally, Capt Scott Dickinson

ARRC team. The Veterans competition saw the

has been selected to take on the role of Army Men's

largest number of entries last year, with 18 players

Captain for the new season. This reflects the

competing. Maj Alan Falconer, a former Infantry

continued growth of talent within Infantry Golf.

Captain, took the gross prize by two shots over Mr Daz Finch and WO2 Ian Mahan. The Veterans

Despite missing out on a few trophies, Infantry Golf

Stableford winner was Capt Steve Harrison, with

has had a successful season and will continue to

runner-up Maj McCormack.

identify new talent and compete against other Corps. Our aim is to encourage more players to get

The Infantry has continued to send players to

involved in golf. Without the players, the sport

represent

of

never grows. Thank you to everyone who has

competitive golf, with Lt Declan Brady, WO2 Dean

contributed to last season's success, and we look

Geoghegan, Cpl Steve Farnworth, Cpl Clinton

forward to seeing you on the course next year.

the

Army

at

the

highest

level

ROYAL SIGNALS

By SSgt Jim Reeves Golf within the Corps has continued to grow. We

Home team

Away team

Belton Park GC

INF

3

R SIGS

5

Leatherhead GC

R SIGS

3.5

RE

4.5

Kenilworth GC

AGC

3.5

R SIGS

4.5

year - many of them newcomers, including several

Tidworth GC

RA

4.5

R SIGS

3.5

women, which is extremely encouraging for the

York GC

R SIGS

3

RLC

5

now have over 400 subscribers to our Corps Golf newsletter,

have

participated in some form of Corps golf event last

and

more

than

150

golfers

Venue

future of Corps Golf in the Royal Signals (R SIGS).

Friendly Matches AGA Corps league 2023 saw the R SIGS play two friendly fixtures. The The R SIGS was placed into Division 1 of the AGA

annual fixture against the Worshipful Company of

Inter Corps league for the 2023 season. Five

Information Technologists at Calcot Park Golf Club

matches were played at various venues throughout

resulted in the R SIGS team retaining the CITO Cup.

England, with R SIGS winning two of these

The second fixture was the annual development

matches. They finished fourth in the league,

match against the REME at Cumberwell Park Golf

ensuring their place in Division 1 for the 2024

Club.

season. Individual match results are shown in the table on the right:

Army Matchplay and Inter Corps Championships

By Capt Sanjeev Rai R SIGS Golf has achieved a remarkable feat last year, winning in both the Inter Corps and the Army Matchplay Championships. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the golfers involved, as well as the support of the wider Corps community. The Inter Corps Championship sees teams from across the British Army compete for

the title of champion, and the R SIGS A team emerged victorious last year. This is a significant R SIGS team at Tidworth GC vs RA

achievement,

given

the

high

standard

of

competition within the Army Golf Association.

71

CORPS REPORTS come true to see the Corps win the Inter Corps Championship. I am confident that R SIGS Golf will continue to be successful in the future. We have a talented squad of golfers, and we are committed to developing them to reach their full potential. I look forward to competing in 2024 as the defending champions. Congratulations to all involved in this remarkable achievement!

2023 R SIGS team & supporters with the Inter Corps Championship Trophy

Corps Championships A highly successful competition saw 88 Corps

The Army Matchplay Championship is an individual

golfers competing for the Corps Championships, a

event open to all serving Army personnel. Capt

two-day event at the Ashley Wood Golf Club in

Sanjeev Rai reached the quarter-finals of 2023's

Dorset. The event was well supported by players

main competition, losing on the 17th hole to the

from across the 3 Rs (Regular, Reserve, and Retired),

defending champion. However, Cpl Prem Gurung

with those in attendance competing in a variety of

was

formats to ensure everyone had something to play

triumphant

in

the

plate

competition,

highlighting his skill and determination.

for.

This

included

Medal,

Stableford,

and

Greensomes rounds.

2023 R SIGS Championships results: Corps Champion - SSgt Somras Tamang

Challenge Bowl - SSgt Somras Tamang Keith Pritchard Memorial Bowl - Sgt Avinash Ale Stableford Championship - WO1 Steffan Gibbs Veterans Trophy - Mr Jeff Morris Officers Trophy - Capt Stu Welton Challenge Cup - Capt Nowosielski & Sgt Stanley Inter Unit Trophy - 22 Sig Regt (Cpl Jackson, Sgt Stanley, Capt Indra Thapa) A huge thank you must go to Lt Col (Retd) Mick Boyle, who has organised this event for a number of years and continues to do so even in his retirement from the Services. A lot of planning goes into an event of this size, and all involved with Corps Golf are grateful for his continued support.

Cpl Prem Gurung with the Denton Salver

Autumn Meeting

These successes reflect the strength and depth of R

The autumn meeting was held at the Ashley Wood

SIGS Golf. The squad of 14 golfers who represented

Golf Club on 20 Sep 23. The planned 36-hole

the Corps last year ranged from first-timers to

Stableford event had to be cut short due to

experienced players. This indicates that the Corps is

horrendous weather conditions, with play being

committed to developing golfers of all levels, with a

halted shortly after the completion of round one.

clear pathway for progression.

An outstanding effort was made by all who As Corps Captain, I am extremely proud of what R

attended

SIGS Golf has accomplished last season. It's a dream

challenging conditions.

72

and

completed

18

holes

in

such

CORPS REPORTS The Scratch competition was won by Lt Col (TOT) Bob Pace, while the Handicap Trophy was won by Mr Ben Redstone. Both individuals played brilliantly despite the extreme weather conditions.

Female Development Day A Corps Golf female development day saw 13 personnel attend Salisbury Golf Centre, where they were introduced to basic golf skills by

two

professional coaches. All attendees participated in

Lt Col (TOT) Pace at the home of golf

range work, short game techniques (including bunkers, chipping, and putting) before heading out

on to the 9-hole course to test the skills they had

for four consecutive years. As a regular Army player,

learned. It was a hugely successful day, enjoyed by

he was the natural choice to become Army Captain,

everyone in attendance. A massive thank you goes

leading the team to two consecutive Inter Service

to Salisbury Golf Centre for hosting the event, and

titles.

to the members of the Army Women’s team, who provided insight into women's golf within the Army.

He stepped down as Army Captain in 2019 and took

It is hoped that a similar event will take place in

over as Chairman of Royal Signals Golf, a position

2024.

he held for four years before handing over in late 2023. For over 20 years, he has enabled others to The End of an Era

play golf while achieving the highest level of success within the Army himself. During this time,

Lt Col (TOT) Bob Pace has represented Royal

he planned and organised numerous tours for the

Signals Corps Golf for over 20 years, serving as a

Corps and Army, including an Army Overseas

player, Secretary, Captain, and most recently as the

Sports Visit (OSV) to South Africa in 2019.

Chairman. He began playing golf at unit level in 1992 and, within four years, had won trophies at the

For his dedication, commitment, and outstanding

Corps Championships in his first appearance. In

performance, Lt Col (TOT) Bob Pace was awarded

2000, he was selected to represent the Corps Golf

the Royal Signals Lifetime Achievement Award in

team in Germany. The British Forces Germany

2023. Here's his roll of honour:

(BFG) golfing community thrived at the time, and he was part of the team that went on to win the

Inter Services Winners: 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018

Inter Corps League in BFG for the next four years.

Inter Corps Champions: 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2023

During his years in Germany, he took over the role

Corps Champion: 2013, 2018, 2021, 2022

of Golf Secretary, facilitating matches and events

Army Championships Runner-Up and Most

for all BFG-based golfers.

Improved Golfer: 2015 European Masters Games – Silver and Bronze

Upon returning to the UK in 2010, he became the

Medals: 2023

Corps Secretary for Golf, responsible for organising all golf events throughout the Corps for the next

We hope to see the soon-to-be "Mr Pace" at future

two years. His playing skills were recognised with a

Corps and Army Golf events.

call-up to the Army team, earning him Army Colours in 2012. In 2013, he was appointed Corps

Looking Forward

Captain, where he had an immediate impact, leading the Corps team to win the Inter Corps

R SIGS Golf is in an excellent position with a similar

Championships for the first time in over 10 years. He

fixture forecast for 2024. One of our key aims is to

remained Corps Captain for four years, during

further develop all golfers in the Corps, continue to

which the Corps team dominated golf throughout

build female participation in Corps Golf events, and

the Army, winning the Inter Corps Championships

aim to retain the Inter Corps Championship in 2024.

73

CORPS REPORTS

ROYAL ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL ENGINEERS

By Capt Carl Wray 2023 has been an exceptional year for the REME

was fantastic and the weather was glorious.

Golf Association (RGA). Our fixtures were spread

Sgt Aajanish Anand played exceptional golf and

across

became the RGA’s 2023 Corps Champion.

the

country,

allowing

for

broader

participation. This, combined with relative success in the AGA Inter Corps league matches, and solid

performances by our members in Major AGA events,

contributed

experience.

The

to

RGA

an

overall

also

focused

positive on

the

development of golfers across all skill levels, which has raised the standard of play and promoted healthy

competition

during

our

meetings

throughout the year.

The year commenced with the RGA High Handicap Meeting at Salisbury and South Wilts Golf Club. The event consisted of a 9-hole Texas scramble in the

morning, followed by an 18-hole Stableford in the afternoon,

allowing

high-handicap

players

to

partner with lower-handicap players, providing a unique opportunity to learn more about the game and improve their skills. Soon after, the RGA's Annual Captains tour took place, where 12 golfers headed to the Algarve in Portugal for a full week of

RGA Corps Champion - Sgt Aajanish Anand

friendly competition, which ultimately proved to be a tremendous success.

The spring, summer, and autumn meetings were held at Thornock Park, the Vale Golf and Country Club, and Sherfield Oaks, respectively. The final meet of the year, the Brass Balls, took place at Ogbourne Down Golf Club, with the 2023 Order of Merit and Hadrian's Cup still up for grabs. The eventual winner of both the Hadrian's Cup (with his partner Sgt Stuart Evans) and the Order of Merit was

Sgt

George

Dickinson,

who

displayed

RGA tour to Portugal

consistently excellent golf across all meets and

As 2023 progressed, the AGA league matches

A fixture the RGA looks forward to each year is

unfolded, with impressive victories against the AAC

Officers vs Soldiers, held at Sonning Golf Club. Last

and RAPTC, as well as friendly wins against the

year, after a morning session win of 6-0 to the

R SIGS and Royal Marines, contributing to a strong

soldiers, the officers made a valiant effort, but the

league season. The RGA Corps Championships

soldiers ultimately retained the trophy with a final

were held at Sonning Golf Club, where the turnout

score of 10-8.

74

matches.

CORPS REPORTS

Officers vs Soldiers

Matchplay Champion - LCpl Tom Sanghera

At AGA Major events, LCpl Tom Sanghera had great

The RGA aim to replicate and improve in 2024 with

success,

encouraging more members and expanding our

winning

the

Army

Matchplay

Championship at Saunton Golf Club.

events radius to capture all golfers across the Corps.

INTELLIGENCE CORPS

By Capt Rod Farnworth The 2023 Intelligence Corps Golf Association (ICGA)

Cup. Veteran and former ICGA President Col (Retd)

season began in late April at Oxley Park Golf Club in

Jim Brown secured the Sir Michael Gow Challenge

Wolverhampton, organised by Sgt Ben Ware.

Trophy, narrowly missing out on the coveted

Although attendance was low, largely due to the

Derbyshire Trophy, which was retained once again

operational commitments currently affecting the

by an in-form Sgt Ben Ware.

whole Forces, those who attended had a great time, using the event to shake off the winter rust

The Intelligence Corps Golf team, though severely

and get ready for the upcoming golf season.

under strength with only five players last year, excelled at the AGA Inter Corps Championship,

In early July, ICGA golfers gathered at Hellidon

lifting the Singapore Trophy for the third time in

Lakes Golf Club, a challenging 27-hole course in

recent years. This remarkable achievement shows

Northamptonshire, to compete in the 2024 ICGA

that while the Corps may be small, it consistently

Championships. The first round presented players

punches above its weight. In September, 12 golfers

with what could only be described as a set of holes

took part in a very successful Overseas Sports Visit

that wouldn't be out of place in Jurassic Park, with

(OSV) to the USA, covered by a far better article

an especially tricky downhill par-3 second hole.

than this (see pages 40-41)! Unfortunately, due to

Water lurked to the right and dense foliage to the

typical UK weather, the planned autumn meeting

left, prompting many players to hit provisional balls.

in October had to be cancelled, making the OSV

Remarkably, the author’s ball narrowly missed

the final ICGA event for the year.

Capt David Thomas, who, ironically, wasn't even near the green, setting the tone for a challenging

A big thank you to everyone who participated in

round.

and organised events this year - Sgt Ben Ware, Sgt Jacob

Timson, the

and

Ian

continued

Comerford.

We

also

support

from

the

After a night's rest and relaxation, players were

appreciate

sorted according to their first-round scores to

Intelligence Corps Association and Army Sport,

compete for the Derbyshire Trophy (Champion

which funds Corps sport, providing members with

Scratch Golfer), the Sir Michael Gow Challenge

exciting opportunities in some fantastic locations.

Trophy (Official Handicap), and the Boughton Cup (Unofficial

Handicap/Bandit

Cup).

With

fine

We hope that 2024 will see a greater turnout from

weather holding, round two got underway with

Regular, Reserve, and Veteran golfers, operations

Veteran Stewart Mitchell capturing the Boughton

and life permitting.

75