SUFFOLK & NORFOLK R E F L O G JULY/AUGUST 2015
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New Shelter at Ipswich Golf Club by Neill Ellice, Secretary
The new shelter at the 11th tee was officially opened when former Junior Captain, Jack Jowers, accompanied by his parents, and uncle, Martin Elsworthy, presented Club Captain, Barrie Henderson, with a brass plaque commemorating Jack’s grandfather, legendary Ipswich Town footballer, John Elsworthy. The Jowers and Elsworthy families had generously donated £500 towards the cost of the new shelter.
Before his death in 2009, John Elsworthy had been a member here at Ipswich GC Jack Jowers presents the plaque to Barrie Henderson in the for 39 years and, in my first year as company of Neill Ellice, Martin Elsworthy, Jane Jowers (née Secretary, I recall seeing John regularly Elsworthy) and David Jowers. taking Jack, then aged 5, on to the Bixley course to help him master the As quoted in the The Independent newspaper’s game of golf. With uncle Martin being the obituary in May 2009, “John Elsworthy was a Professional at Rookery Park GC during Jack’s colossal cornerstone of the Ipswich Town side which childhood and teenage years, and a grandfather of featured in one of the most romantic of all footballing renowned sporting talent, it is perhaps, not success stories. Gifted at most sports, the teenage surprising that Jack, now graduated from Swansea Elsworthy chose football over cricket and rugby, university, plays off 3. spurning a chance to join Glamorgan County Cricket Club, enlisting instead with Newport County as an amateur. Spotted by Ipswich while excelling for the Somerton Park outfit at youth level, he signed on at Portman Road in 1949. The lanky Welsh wing-half was a dynamic midfield driving force as the hitherto unfashionable Suffolk club ascended from the lower reaches of the Football League to its very pinnacle under the inspirational guidance of Alf Ramsey, who was destined to lead England to World Cup glory Founded 1893 only four years later in 1966.
Royal Worlington & Newmarket Golf Club
Royal Worlington is regularly listed amongst the top 100 courses in Britain and Ireland by Golf Monthly, and has the reputation of being the greatest 9-hole course in England, if not the world. It is a firm, fast running links-like course, with true undulating greens. For a unique Clubhouse atmosphere, and a relaxed round of golf, contact the Secretary at
secretary@royalworlington.co.uk or by telephoning him on 01638 717787
County Card visitors are accepted as are 3 and 4 balls (at certain times), all visits must be arranged in advance. www.royalworlington.co.uk
When the men from Portman Road lifted the First Division title – the equivalent of the Premier League crown today – it was hailed as a sporting miracle, and its essence was personified by the largely unsung Elsworthy. In a patchwork team, stitched together expertly but frugally by the shrewdly imaginative Ramsey, he was a bastion of strength and reliability, but also a key creative influence. He held a unique record, being the only man to collect a championship medal at the League’s every level, and he was unswervingly loyal too, serving only the Town during a professional career which encompassed nearly 450 games”. Our grateful thanks are due to the families of Jack Jowers and Martin Elsworthy for their kind gesture. In times of bad weather, the shelter will be a welcomed location by players and those volunteers who take on the role of starter for some of our events.
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Fynn Valley Golf Club Raises more than £2200 for EACH
Fynn Valley’s Club Captain for 2014/15, Elsworth Holder, chose the East Anglia Children’s Hospices (EACH) as his charity for his year in office. Starting with Captain’s Week in June 2014, where a a large proportion of the money was raised, the club went on fundraising by a wide variety of methods, including Quiz Nights, Texas Scramble competitions, Craft Fayres, raffles and more…. The resulting £2201.35 was very gratefully received by Gemma Smith, Suffolk Fundraiser, on behalf of the Charity. Gemma said this amount was fantastic and would be of great benefit supporting local families and caring for children and young people with life threatening conditions. Gemma Smith and Elsworth Holder
Suffolk kids Charlie Goodridge (Bury Left: Charlie range) and Goodridge with 70 YEAR A GOLFER, 7 HOLES IN ONE golf Henry Meadows Henry Meadows Richard Mason has been a member of Ipswich Golf (Fynn Valley) Club for 70 years, he can’t quite remember if he qualified to play in joined in 1944,1945 or 1946! However he is 83 now the European Kids and still plays the Purdis Heath course from the Championships white tees at least twice a week with his social held at Gullane in group, the tea-set. In late May, playing in a friendly Scotland. but competitive fourball, he achieved his 7th hole in one, using his favourite 7 wood to the 138 yard 15th Six Hundred kids aged 7-18 from all hole. As you can see, his playing partners were over the world, teed almost as up in some very pleased as he windy conditions was, and and lightning fast celebrated along greens over three with further rounds. eager and Charlie was right congratulatory up there with the friends with leaders on day one, drinks in the scoring 3 over. clubhouse They both done afterwards really well finishing Here is a smiling middle of the pack. Richard, centre What an with Chris Cater Ray Tyler and experience! John Frew, who witnessed the deed!
Exiting times ahead for this pair of eight year olds.
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Suffolk Schools’ Golf Association by Adrian Pitts
The Western Area competition was held at Haverhill GC, with a total of 42 players representing 11 different schools. On a day when the temperature reached 34c and the greens running very quick and true, some excellent scores were recorded and several players were rewarded with cuts to their handicaps. The outstanding performance coming from Tom Turner with a gross 85 off his 25 h/c, while Harvey Watts was just 3 over par gross with a 5 h/c. A special mention must be given to the 11 students who took part in a 10 hole competition from the “blue” tees, for players who have just started having lessons but are yet to gain a handicap. For most of them it was the first time they had actually played on a golf course rather than on a practice ground, or in the case of some, the school field! With more clubs offering sessions for these students hopefully we will see junior numbers increasing again. The prize winners were: Boys’ Scratch: 1st Harvey Watts (Stour Valley) 75; 2nd Jude Everitt (Culford) 78; Boys’ Nett: 1st Tom Turner (Samuel Ward) 61; 2nd Henry Day (Thomas Gainsborough) 66; Girls’ Nett: 1st Fiona Stokes (County Upper) 67; 0-15 h/c Stableford: Alex Earle (County Upper) 35pts; 2nd James Cooper (Ormiston Sudbury) 33 pts 16-28 h/c Stableford: 1st Georgia Parker (Culford) 39pts; 2nd Ollie Page (Thomas Gainsborough) 34pts; 29-36 h/c Stableford: 1st Rio Everitt (Finborough). Beginners Competition: 1st Harvey Sandry (County Upper); 2nd James Johnson (Finborough). Team Stableford (best 2 scores of 3 counting) 1st County Upper 68pts; 2nd Culford 67pts.
Thanks go to Haverhill GC for making their course available and being excellent hosts. South Area competition was held at Fynn Valley GC, with 24 students from 7 schools taking part. On a warm day and firm fairways, the performance of the day came from Gregor Tait (right), who has recently been selected for England Schools to play against their Scottish counterparts later in the year. Gregor started the day with a h/c of 0.1 but after completing a superb round of 67, a new course record, he will see this cut to +1!
Boys’Scratch: 1st – Gregor Tait 67; 2nd Sam Byford 72 (both Kesgrave HS) ; Girl’s Scratch: 1st Melissa Schreoder 84 (Kesgrave HS); Boy’s Nett: 1st Aaron Shepherd 71 (Claydon HS); 2nd Max Davis 72 (Farlingaye HS) ; 0-18 h/c Stableford: 1st Will Garland 35 pts (Northgate HS); 2nd Alex Watkins 33 pts (Claydon HS ); 19-28 h/c Stableford 1st Ben Hambling 31 pts (Copleston HS) Girls’ Stableford 1st Charlie Woodage 29 pts (Ipswich HS for Girls)
The next event will be the Championship to be held at Felixstowe GC on October 14th. Suffolk Schools’ Golf Association is very grateful to Ransome/Jacobsen and Bramford Golf Centre for their sponsorship.
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Henry Meadows Wins East Anglian Under 12 Junior Golf Championship Henry Meadows, a nine year old member of Fynn Valley Golf Club, has won the 15th East Anglian Under 12 Junior Golf Championship with an 18 hole score of 73. Henry has been a consistent winner on the Stonham Barns 9 hole golf course over the last year, with a fantastic nine wins in ten starts. He has three more years to play in this event and has the chance to equal the three wins by Lee Spurling, the 2006, 2007 and 2008 winner.
In second place was 11 year old George Whitehall from Ely Golf Club with a score of 74, and in third place were 8 year old Charlie Goodridge from Bury Golf Club, and 12 year old Alfie Guy-Pinkney from Ely Golf Club,with scores of 75. The age categories were won by George Whitehall for the Under 12’s, Henry Meadows for the Under 10’s and 6 year old Finlay Brock won the Under 8 age category, with a great score of 82 helped by a birdie at the third hole.
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Stonham Barns Golf Centre has been hosting this event since 2001 and it gives the juniors the opportunity to experience some completive golf in a fun friendly environment. The main aim is they all enjoy the game, even if they do not pick up any of the prizes.
There are eight junior events each year at Stonham Barns and any juniors from 4-15 are welcome to go along and have a game. More details of all their junior events can be found on their website www.stonhambarnsgolf.co.uk
Ann Legg, Ann Graves President SLCGA, Kim Worne
Kevin Ward Wins 1st Suffolk Open FootGolf Championship
The first Suffolk Open FootGolf Championship at Stonham Barns, was won by Kevin Ward with a great score of 53 (-5 under par). In a round that included seven two’s he achieved his best ever score around the Stonham Course. Kevin from Colchester is a regular at Stonham Barns having played in most of the UK Ranking events.
SLCGA CENTENARY FOURSOMES
Sizzling – yes that was for both the weather and the scores for the Centenary Foursomes competition held at Bungay & Waveney Golf Club. Even a brief shower of rain just after lunch couldn’t dampen spirits. Twenty five pairs enjoyed playing 27 holes during the morning and afternoon on the course which was in great condition with superb greens. Hospitality throughout the day was generously provided by Ladies Captain Colly Muttit and her willing brigade of helpers. Winners, from Cretingham Golf Club with a sizzling score of 65 points were Kim Worne and Anne Legg. The trophies and prizes were presented by SCLGA President Ann Graves. Prize winners were:
In second place was Dan McLaughlin who also scored 53 and just lost out on count back. There were 4 players on 54, Darren Wheat, Chris Tranter, Liam Osborne and Ben Garnham.
There were three holes in hole on the day. Amazingly Tony Dobson with winner Kevin Ward 1st Kim Worne & Ann Legg - Cretingham G C, 44/21 = 65 Lewis Warnes points; 2nd Pam Willshere & Linda Gilham - Stowmarket achieved the first ever two holes in one in a round. G C, 38/16 = 54 points; 3rd Linda Bennett & Margaret Bussell - Ipswich G C, 36/17 = 53 points; 4th Carol Boffey He holed in one on the 2nd and the 16th holes. The third hole in one was achieved by Matt Prescott on & Alison Taylor - Ufford Park G C, 39/14 = 53 pts (on cb) the 7th hole. Over 60 footgolfers competed in The Suffolk Open FootGolf Championship which was played over 18 holes medal play around the scenic Stonham Barns FootGolf Course with the winner receiving the Scarlett Brown Trophy.
Winners of Brett Vale Ladies Open
Left to right:- Alison Stokes, ladies Captain, with the winners, Katy Cooper and Catherine Chick from Braiswick, and Sheila King, ladies Vice Captain.
Footgolf has really taken off in the UK and now there are over 120 footgolf courses (100 new courses over the last year) with many more opening soon. Here is a great quote about the game: "Footgolf combines the distinction, elegance and precision of golf with the passion, energy and fun of football in a marvellous new sport that's full of life”.
To have a game of footgolf contact Stonham Barns FootGolf Course on 01449 711545 or email tony@midsuffolkgolfacademy.co.uk
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Suffolk Golf Union
Suffolk Golf Union Current Officers and Members of the Executive Committee
President: Phil Platten (Woodbridge) Tel: 01394 461246; Vice President: Colin Firmin (Ipswich) 01206 298742 Honorary Secretary: Charlie Wilderspin (Rookery Park) Tel: 01502 588028 Treasurer: Geoff Henney (Aldeburgh) Tel: 01728 685525
Executive Committee: Ray Baines (Felixstowe Ferry) Tel: 01394 276076: Brian Brandwood (Southwold) Tel: 01502 723885: Bill Darling (Stowmarket) Tel: 01449 615854: Colin Firmin (Ipswich) Tel: 01206 298742: Mike Rees (Rookery Park) Tel: 01502 568941: Tony Rubin (Woodbridge) Tel: 01473 785350: Philip Graham (Bury St Edmunds) 07968-263531
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Other positions: Chairman Suffolk Junior Golf: Mike Stevenson (Thorpeness) Tel: 01728 603521; 1st Team Captain: Nathan Overton (Woodbridge) Tel: 07979 366874; 2nd Team Captain: Neil Meadows (Felixstowe Ferry) Tel: 01394 766104; Seniors Captain: Geoff Henney (Aldeburgh) Tele: 01728 685525; County Referee: Mike Rees (Rookery Park) Tel: 01502 568941 EGU Delegate: Charlie Wilderspin (Rookery Park) Tel: 01502 588028; SE Group Delegate: Mike Rees (Rookery Park) Tel: 01502 568941; Ecology Officer: Michael Thomas (Ipswich) Tel: 01394 283973. Chairman Suffolk County Golf Partnership: Crawford Gillan (Ipswich) Tel: 01473 254753; Suffolk Junior Golf Committee: Chairman: Mike Stevenson (Thorpeness) Tel: 01728 603521: Secretary: Charlie Wilderspin (Rookery Park) Tel: 01502 588028: Managers: Under 18s: Trevor Mason (Felixstowe Ferry) Tel: 01394 274331: Under 16s: Tony Watkins (Ipswich) Tel: 01473 713748: Under 14s: David Ashworth (Hintlesham) Tele: 01787 377752: Head Coach: Keith Preston (Aldeburgh) Tel: 01728453309: County Child Protection Officer: Stuart McCallum (Ipswich) Tel: 01473 782780.
www.suffolkgolfunion.com
Phil Platten
Welcome from the President of the Suffolk Golf Union Looking back at previous contributions from the President at this time of year, quite rightly there has always been a mention for the hardworking members of our clubs green keepers. Cherished at times and sadly maligned at others, theirs is an unenviable task to keep several hundred ‘employers’ happy all the time. All in all, they do a fine job when faced with all the vagaries of the weather and an ever increasing squeeze on clubs budgets. Whenever the SGU visit clubs for our championships, Anglian League and friendly matches, we are indebted to their hard work and dedication in producing a course for everyone to enjoy. Unfortunately my trip to France to play in the French Seniors (Over 65s) coincided with The Presidents Mashie at Gorleston where local man, Danny Western took the honours. A thank you goes to my Vice-President, Colin Firmin for attending the event and presenting the prizes. There is a full report on page 16, of the exciting two days of golf. After ten years of outstanding service to the SGU, our Honorary Treasurer, Geoff Henney is standing down at the 2017 AGM. His astute financial management of our funds has been the primary reason why the Suffolk affiliation fee has been and remains one of the lowest in England. He will be hard to replace and I would like whoever that replacement may be, to have the opportunity to work with Geoff until the formal takeover in 2017. If you are interested or know of anyone who may be interested, please contact the Honorary Secretary Charlie Wilderspin on 01502 588028. Finally, on the 13th September, we will be holding the Suffolk Category 2 and Category 3 Championship at Halesworth. This Championship gives the opportunity for those players holding a handicap in these categories, of becoming a County Champion. If interested, visit the SGU website and download the entry details. For administration purposes, cheques for all the championships are not processed until after event.
Anyone wishing to submit articles or comments should email suffolkgolfer@aspects.net
by Charlie Wilderspin
Suffolk Boys in final of England Golf South East Under 18 League
Suffolk Boys scored resounding victories over Bedfordshire by 61/2 to 11/2 and Norfolk by 71/2 to 1/2 in the final league matches of the England Golf South East Group Northern Section at Colmworth and North Bedfordshire Golf Club which enabled them to win the section. The final standings were Suffolk 8pts, Bedfordshire 7pts and Norfolk 3 pts. It was by far their best performance of the season after a faltering start in the league, having lost to both counties at Thetford and narrowly overcoming both at Bury St Edmunds. Jed Seeley continued his excellent form with a 7 and 5 victory over Giles Evans of Norfolk, and a 2 and 1 victory over Jack Hawksby, who had represented Bedfordshire men in the South East Group team Championship the previous day. Gregor Tait beat Bedfordshire's Tom Mead who had also represented their men's team. William Farley of Norfolk retired with an injured wrist, but he was losing to Tait at the time. Will Morcombe, Connor Talbot and Lewis Whiting all picked up maximum points while Sam Byford and Jack Phillips both halved one of their matches. Phillips was three down against Ryan Smith of Bedfordshire, with three to play, but birdies at the last three holes earned him his half point. Ben Aves was making his first appearance for the county and was unfortunate to come up against Jamie Gibbons of Bedfordshire in excellent form, but Aves scored a point for his team with a convincing win over Taylor Davis of Norfolk. He will have benefited from the experience. Suffolk now meet the winners of the Central and Southern sections in the league final at The Dyke Golf Club in Brighton on 30th August.
Biggs recording the best individual score of 152, 12 over par. Their team score of 936, 96 over par, left them in last place some 54 shots behind the winners and South East Group qualifiers, Hampshire on 882. Individual scores - James Biggs 152-73-79, Chris Bartrum 153-77-76, Paul Waring 154-75-79, Ali Hall 155-72-83, Robert Salter-159-75-84, Josh Cottrell 163-80-83 Team placings - Hampshire 882, Kent 890, Essex 891, Norfolk 894, Surrey 895, BB & O 900, Middlesex 900, Sussex 901, Bedfordshire 928, Hertfordshire 933, Suffolk 936
Suffolk Seniors v Cambridgeshire Seniors
Suffolk Seniors travelled to Gog Magog to take on Cambridgeshire Seniors in an East Anglian Seniors League match. The morning foursomes saw them establish a commanding lead at 4.5 to 0.5 with four wins and a halve. Although they were beaten in the afternoon singles Suffolk completed a good win by 9-6, leaving them still with a chance of taking the league title with a good win in their final game which is away to Northamptonshire at Rushden Golf Club.
Results:- Am Foursomes - Steve Whymark and John Whitby beat John Yuill and Peter Laughlin 1 up, Mark Jackson and Richard Barton halved with Neil Hughes and Graham Miller, Roger Taylor and Geoff Henney beat David Burt and Gerald O'Keane 3 & 2, Giles Oates and Nick Owles beat Brendan Barry and Mike Morrison 1 up, Andy Ball and Jim Ross beat Hamish Fleming and Graham Clark 2 & 1. Pm Singles - Taylor lost to Yuill 2 & 1, Whymark beat Hughes 4 & 3, Whitby lost to Laughlin 1 down, Barton lost to O'Keane 5 & 3, Henney lost to Miller 2 & 1, Jackson halved with Burt, Owles beat Barry 6 & 5, Ball beat Fleming 1 up, Ross beat Morrison 5 & 4, Oates lost to Clark 4 & 3 Cambridgeshire 6 Suffolk 9
England Golf South East Group Suffolk v Lincolnshire County Qualifying Suffolk entertained Lincolnshire in an Anglian
Suffolk were in action at Hendon Golf Club when they were competing against eleven other Counties, in an attempt to qualify for the England Golf County finals which are to be held at Wychwood Park Golf Club on the 25/27 September. No one performed to their capabilities with James
League match at Rookery Park Golf Club. Lincolnshire have already reached the English County finals as Midlands Champions and were the winners of the Eastern Counties Foursomes recently, played at Seacroft. As a result of torrential rain overnight, all bunkers were declared out of play.
EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING: Froghoppers, Lower Marine Parade, CO12 3SR Tel: 01255 242141 E-mail: suffolkgolfer@aspects.net Front Cover: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com Publisher: Linda Basham Opinions, comments and reports in Suffolk & Norfolk Golfer Magazine are not Waldringfield GC necessarily those of the SUFFOLK or NORFOLK COUNTY GOLF UNIONS.
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The day started promisingly with Suffolk taking a 3-1 lead after the morning foursomes, with wins from Chris Bartrum and James Biggs, Josh Cottrell and Robert Salter and Ali Hall and Monty Scowsill. Unfortunately they were unable to capitalise in the afternoon singles going down 7-1 with only James Biggs taking a point, leaving Lincolnshire the winners by 8-4 Results:- Am Foursomes - Chris Bartrum and James Biggs beat Simon Richardson and Adam Wainwright 2 up, Calvin Sherwood and Paul Waring lost to Nick Watson and Shaun Marshall 6 & 5, Josh Cottrell and Robert Salter beat Billy Spooner and Jordan Wrisdale 5 & 3, Ali Hall and Monty Scowsill beat Rob McKay and Sam Whittaker 2 & 1. Pm- Singles - Sherwood lost to Richardson 2 & 1, Waring lost to Wrisdale 5 & 3, Bartrum lost to Spooner 3 & 2, Biggs beat Watson 2 & 1, Salter lost to Marshall 1 down, Scowsill lost to Wainwright 1 down, Cottrell lost to McKay 3 & 1, Hall lost to Whittaker 5 & 4. Suffolk 4 - Lincolnshire 8
Lincolnshire 2nds v Suffolk 2nds
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Suffolk travelled to Kenwick Park to take on Lincolnshire in an Anglian League match. Suffolk, previously unbeaten, began badly losing the morning foursomes by 3-1 with their only win coming from Jack Philips and Sam Byford. However, Suffolk fought back in the afternoon singles taking 5.5 points with wins from Jack Forgan, Josh Robertson, Jasper Johnson, Lewis Whiting and Jack Phillips whilst Sam Byford, the Suffolk Amateur Champion, came back from 5 down at the turn, to halve his match and maintain the Suffolk teams winning run. The average age of the Suffolk team was only 17. Am Foursomes - Josh Illsley and Oliver Harrod beat Jack Forgan and Gregor Tait 2 & 1, Sam Done and Les Toyne beat Lewis Whiting and Jed Seeley 4 & 3, Ashley Fletcher and Jacob Kirkham beat Jasper Johnson and Josh Robertson 5 & 4, Jamie Kinnaird and Joe Knox lost to Jack Phillips and Sam Byford 2 & 1 Pm Singles - Done lost to Forgan 2 & 1, Harrod beat Tait 1 up, Illsley lost to Robertson 2 & 1, Fletcher lost to Johnson 3 & 2, Kinnaird lost to Whiting 1 down, Knox beat Seeley 3 & 2, Kirkham halved with Byford, Toyne lost to Phillips 4 & 3. Lincolnshire 5.5 Suffolk 6.5
“It’s too dark to continue play” BY MICHAEL THOMAS
This is the season for knock-outs and sometimes matches have to go down the 19th or beyond to get a result. Occasionally players may run out of daylight and it becomes impossible to continue play – what are the options? Unless there are specific rules for that particular competition, the Rules Booklet gives guidance.
Rule 6-8 (page 51) deals with Discontinuance of Play and sets out the conditions under which a player is allowed to discontinue play, but there is an exception for match play stating “Players discontinuing match play by agreement are not subject to disqualification unless by so doing the competition is delayed”. Rule 6-8 also sets out the procedure for the resumption of play. A match can be resumed a day or two later by mutual agreement between players but must be resumed at the point where previous play was discontinued. The Decisions Book (7-2/10, 7-2/11, and 7-2/12) clarifies the procedure in certain situations.
If, for example, the match was discontinued at the 13th tee, this is where it would have to be resumed, even if the players had to play the first 12 holes in order to get onto a crowded course ! If a match could not be resumed for several days, it also states that either player can play on the course in the interim. It’s impossible, and very unwise, to try to abbreviate rules, so its worth having a read of Rule 6-8 to acquaint yourself with all the detail.
by Charlie Wilderspin
BYFORD IS SUFFOLK AMATEUR CHAMPION
The Suffolk Amateur Championship took place at Gorleston Golf Club. It attracted a field of 61 players, conditions were miserable with steady rain throughout the morning. The morning round saw Josh Cottrell, Ipswich, record a 70, followed by home player Danny Western on 72 and Jack Forgan, Stowmarket, and Sam Byford, (below) Ipswich both on 72.
Both Cottrell and Western fell away in the afternoon after shooting 76 and 75 respectively. Danny Perring, Gorleston and Ali Hall, Halesworth, carded 70's in the afternoon with Paul Waring, Felixstowe Ferry and and Will Wright, Aldeburgh both 71's. However, Byford and Forgan recorded 72's, which with their morning rounds of 73 left them tied for the lead on 145 - one shot clear of Bartrum (74-72) and Cottrell. Sam Byford took the title and the Todd Cup in a playoff, winning at the second extra hole. Jack Forgan received the John Doe Salver as runner up. Other prize winners were- Am Gross-Danny Western 72, Pm Gross- Ali Hall 70. The 36 hole handicap prize went to Daniel Crosby, Gorleston on 137 followed by Ben Aves, Bury St Edmunds on 140 and Graham Wardley, Cretingham 144 The scratch team shield was won by the Ipswich trio of Byford, Cottrell and Gregor Tait ( 75-79) on 445 one shot clear of last year's winners Diss who finished on 446. Ipswich now have the opportunity to represent Suffolk at the England Golf Champion Club tournament, which will be held at Brancepth Castle Golf Club on the 12/13th September.
Suffolk Junior Team Championship Cup
17 clubs were represented in this year’s competition. The format is teams of 3, playing individual stableford, with the team with the highest aggregate score progressing to the next round. The preliminary round saw Ufford Park defeat Thorpeness by 98 to 85 points. In round 1 Newton Green beat Halesworth 107 to 79, Fynn Valley beat Hintlesham 94-92, Bury St Edmunds won at Rookery Park by 89-64, West Suffolk overcame Haverhill 108-101, Gorleston beat Diss 103-97, Ufford Park won at Woodbridge by 102-90 and Felixstowe Ferry beat the holders Ipswich by 95-83. Bungay & Waveney Valley received a walk over from Rushmere who were unable to field a team. Round 2 saw Newton Green win at Gorleston in an extremely tight match by 96-95, Felixstowe Ferry beat Fynn Valley 89-80, Bungay & Waveney Valley beat Bury St Edmunds 89-82 and Ufford Park had an extremely good away win at West Suffolk by 10388. The semi-finals were played at neutral venues with Newton Green beating Felixstowe Ferry at Fynn Valley by 100-97 despite Charlie Harris of Felixstowe scoring 42 points. The other semi-final was staged at Halesworth where Ufford Park overcame Bungay & Waveney Valley by 99-91-George Fricker carding 38 points for the winning team. The final is to be played at Ipswich Golf Club , with the winners progressing to represent Suffolk at the National finals which this year are to be held during England Golf golf week at Frilford Heath on the 10th August.
Suffolk Match PlayParks and Beaumont Trophies
Round 2 of both competitions has now been completed. In the Parks the holders, Ipswich, were beaten at Stowmarket by 13 holes. Bungay & Waveney Valley overcame Brett Vale in a tight match by 2 holes. Diss beat Flempton by 12 holes. Gorleston beat Felixstowe Ferry by 8 holes. Woodbridge beat Southwold by 21 holes and Rookery Park were too strong for Seckford winning by 27 holes. Thorpeness had a good away win by 2 holes at Newton Green. Perhaps the strangest result featured the match between Waldringfield and Bury St Edmunds where the home team ran out winners by 3 holes, despite their first 3 pairs all losing. The final pairing of Derek
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by Charlie Wilderspin
West Suffolk progressed to round 3 with a 5 hole win at home to Haverhill thanks largely to Simon Cousins and Colin Bradham who were 6 up, Clements and Dave Harper saw the team through Waldringfield overcame Gorleston by 13 holes with with a 10 hole win. Stefan Majur and Ashley Pickering finishing 12 up. Round 3 matches – Thorpeness v Gorleston, Diss v Thorpeness had a good 15 hole win over Newton Bungay & Waveney Valley, Woodbridge v Green, Mick and James Cook 9 up on the day. Stowmarket, Waldringfield v Rookery Park. Stowmarket were only 2 holes up at lunch, however, The Beaumont saw Rookery Park defeat the holders with Dave Daniel and Matthew Voysey 11 up in the Ufford Park by 8 holes, Waldringfield beat Haverhill afternoon they went through comfortably by 15 by 6 holes, The Suffolk beat Seckford by 6 holes, holes. Brett Vale had a good 14 hole win at Diss had a good away win in an extremely tight Aldeburgh. Hintlesham went through with a 8 hole match at Rushmere by 1 hole, Bury St Edmunds beat home win over Fynn Valley. Bungay & Waveney Valley by 10 holes, Felixstowe Round 3 matches to play: Ferry had a good away win by 3 holes at Newton Thorpeness v Ufford Park, Brett Vale v West Suffolk, Green, Hintlesham beat Southwold by 9 holes and Waldringfield v Hintlesham, Rookery Park v Thorpeness won away at St Audrys by 3 holes. Stowmarket. Round 3 matches- Felixstowe Ferry v The Suffolk, Rookery Park v Bury St Edmunds, Thorpeness v Waldringfield, Hintlesham v Diss Round 2 matches.
Match Play competitions
Stenson Shield
Bungay & Waveney Valley went down 9-3 at home to Woodbridge, Ipswich beat Hintlesham 8.5 to 3.5, Felixstowe Ferry defeated Gorleston by the same score, Bury St Edmunds beat Aldeburgh 7.5 to 4.5, The second round of the Hambro and Tolly Cobbold Waldringfield beat Halesworth 8-4, Rushmere beat Fynn Valley 11.5 to 0.5, Haverhill squeezed through Cups took place. in a tight match with Newton Green by 6.5 to 5.5, In the Hambro the holders Newton Green beat Thorpeness beat Flempton by 7.5 to 4.5 Rushmere by 5 holes with their top pair, Russell Round 3 matches to be played on Saturday 11th Oakey and Harvey Watts, 6 up on the day. Ipswich July- Ipswich v Thorpeness, Rushmere v had a comfortable 13 hole win against Ufford Park Woodbridge, Felixstowe Ferry v Bury St Edmunds, with Simon Godbold and Daniel Hedges 14 up on the Waldringfield v Haverhill day. Ufford’s Fricker brothers were 4 up. Diss lost at home to Bury St Edmunds by 4 holes where Josh Driver and Michael Manser were 6 up in the morning against Ben Coleman and Dan Smailes and 6 down against the same opponents in the afternoon. For Bury Roger Nicholson and Steve Duffety were 14 up on the day. Halesworth entertained Haverhill and looked to be on their way to the next round when Position : Under 14’s Manager they lead by 7 holes at lunch, however, with 3 of their for 2016 4 pairs securing good wins in the afternoon Haverhill secured a 5 hole victory. Other results- Hintlesham The Role : To manage the U14s squad beat Rookery Park by 14 holes, Stowmarket beat To work with coaching Professionals to develop Woodbridge by 16 holes, Gorleston beat Southwold the players: Assist and advise players on the by 20 holes whilst Bungay & Waveney Valley were coaching (Talent Pathway) programmes given a walk over by West Suffolk.
Vacancy Suffolk Golf Union
Round 3 matches to play:Haverhill v Bungay & Waveney Valley, Hintlesham v Bury St Edmunds, Gorleston v Stowmarket, Newton Green v Ipswich
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In the Tolly Cobbold, holders Ufford Park took a 18 hole lead over Rushmere at lunch, eventually achieving a comfortable victory by 29 holes with Fair and Reeve 10 up on the day. Rookery Park had an impressive away win at The Suffolk by 18 holes, with father and son pairing James and Harry Cook 12 up.
Undertake all administration for the U14 squad Report back to the Chair of Suffolk Golf and Junior Committee The volunteer will be supported by a proactive committee in this rewarding role Apply in first instance to: Mike Stevenson on 01728 603521 or e-mail: mikeandmarystevenson@live.co.uk
Connections and Coincidences BY MICHAEL THOMAS
Professional Frank Hill’s article in the last issue of the Suffolk and Norfolk Golfer, drawing a connection between Suffolk, Augusta National and Thorpeness was intriguing. Once you start researching the early years of golf in Suffolk, all sorts of interesting connections and coincidences emerge.
It was Felixstowe Golf Club that played an important part in the development of golf in England and its early membership was eminent and influential in many spheres. They sought the best and set high standards Frank Hill mentioned Dr. Alister MacKenzie who, having served as a surgeon in both the Boer and First World wars, gave up medicine to follow his real passion – golf course design! He produced, and was involved in, changes to many well known courses in the UK before moving abroad to be responsible for famous courses like Royal Melbourne as well as Cypress Point and Augusta National.
According to Bernard Darwin, the renowned golf writer and correspondent, MacKenzie also did a good job in redesigning Felixstowe as an 18 hole course after WWI. “Dr. MacKenzie , who had the hard task of fusing the old and the new, has done it with the greatest ingenuity”.
Bernard Darwin (grandson of Charles Darwin) had fond memories of Felixstowe, as it was here he learnt the game as a young lad in the 1880’s. He accepted an invitation to become an honorary member of the club in 1957 – his 80th year. An informative (and sensibly priced) small book “Alister MacKenzie - Playing his Legacy” has just been produced by Robert Fletcher. This traces
MacKenzie’s achievements in the UK as well as revealing much about the man himself and his firm views on course design.
Sam Goddard, a member at Felixstowe GC, has also been hard at work, so far generating over 150 biographies on early club members who were “eminent in art, science and literature”. He is currently doing a series for Suffolk Radio which makes compelling listening, but, as they say,” that’s another story”, or should I say “stories”.
SENIORS by Charlie Wilderspin Suffolk Seniors entertained Lincolnshire Seniors in an East Anglian Seniors League match at Aldeburgh.
The morning foursomes saw Lincolnshire establish a 3-2 lead with only Andy Ball and Chris Whyatt achieving a win for Suffolk. Roger Taylor and Geoff Henney and Giles Oates and Nick Owles halving their respective matches. Suffolk fought back in the afternoon led by Steve Whymark, who shot 69 to earn a halve with Stuart Fawcett. Wins followed from John Whitby, Geoff Henney, Mark Jackson, Andy Ball who holed his second shot on the 480 yard 16th, to close out his match, Chris Whyatt and Giles Oates. Nick Owles halving his match.
Results AM Foursomes - Steve Whymark and John Whitby lost to Tim Seaton and Wayne Wallace 5 & 4, Mark Jackson and Dick Barton lost to Paul Chaplain and Steve Cullington 1 down, Roger Taylor and Geoff Henney halved with Stuart Fawcett and Robin Horsman, Giles Oates and Nick Owles halved with Dave Keen and Ray Pauley, Andy Ball and Chris Whyatt beat Dave Quincy and Rod Bell 4 & 3.
PM Singles - Taylor lost to Seaton 1 down, Whymark halved with Fawcett, Whitby beat Horsman 2 & 1, Barton lost to Wallace 1 down, Henney beat Keen 7 & 6, Jackson beat Cullington 4 & 3, Owles halved with Chaplain, Ball beat Bell 4 & 3, Whyatt beat Quincy 1 up and Oates beat Pauley 1 up. Suffolk Seniors 9 Lincolnshire Seniors 6
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Western wins President’s Mashie by Tony Garnett
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Danny Western won the President’s Mashie, the Suffolk Golf Union match play title, in overcast, wet but unusually still conditions at his home club of Gorleston. The 35-year-old, who finished tied 11th in the Welsh Mid-Amateur Championship at Machynys Peninsula last week, beat Ali Hall of Halesworth 2 and 1 in front of a gathering of enthusiastic members of the home club. For the opening 12 holes Hall was in control. He had a birdie at the opening hole and was two up after the third. He was only one up at the turn having found a playable lie in gorse at the ninth. Hall was out in 36 and Western in 37. A birdie at the 12th put Hall two up once again. Then fortunes changed. Hall’s tee shot into the trees at the 13th reduced his lead to one. Then Hall threeputted the 14th having already conceded a threefoot par putt to Western, an act of generosity that raised a few eyebrows. The Gorleston man, in good form as he prepares for the Logan Trophy at the Northumberland Golf Club between July 3 and 5, birdied the 15th and virtually clinched victory with a tremendous approach shot to within four feet for another birdie at the 16th to go two up. Hall needed to sink a long birdie putt from near the edge of the green to keep the match alive at the 17th but it was asking too much. Western had Suffolk under-14 team member Jake Bailey as his caddy which was good experience for the youngster. For Western it was consolation for the disappointment of missing out on the stroke-play championship a fortnight earlier when well placed with two holes to play. The semi-finals were completed in drier conditions. Chris Bartrum of Diss was bidding to reach the final for the fourth successive year. On this occasion his putting let him down as Western eased ahead in the closing stages after sinking a long putt on the 14th. Hall was four up against Gorleston’s three-handicap Josh Manser after 11 but it was far from all over. Twenty-two year old Manser hit back to reduce the deficit to two when he sunk a confident long putt on the 14th. His second shot on the 15th stayed in bounds, but only just, and he came away with a half. He just missed out on a birdie at the 16th and then the holes ran out. On the 17th he drove into a greenside bunker on the left while Hall was in the bunker just short of the green. Hall secured the half he needed to clinch his
place in the final. The first round was played in thoroughly unpleasant conditions. Heavy rain stopped just before the start but it remained overcast with lengthy periods of persistent rain. Manser was the surprise packet. He claimed the scalps of two Suffolk first team players, Josh Cottrell (Ipswich) and then Jasper Johnson (Woodbridge). Manser, with no protection against the rain, played in a shirt and shorts with no glove or umbrella. This did not detract from the quality of his play. He was two up against Cottrell with two to play when he missed a five foot putt on the 17th which would have closed out the match. It looked as though Cottrell would survive for a playoff when Manser’s drive found gorse on the left on the 18th. He took a penalty drop. Cottrell was in a bunker on the right but the balls were close together on the upslope of the fairway with Cottrell having played two and Manser three. Cottrell missed green to the left with his third and Manser was on the green in four. Cottrell’s mishit his chip and then put his fifth shot close enough for the putt to be conceded for a bogey. Manser now had two putts to win the match. With the pressure off he holed out from 15-feet and then went home for a hot bath to prepare for the afternoon. Sam Byford (Ipswich) was unable to repeat his splendid form that saw him become Suffolk county champion. He was one up against Josh Driver (Diss) after five holes but then Driver, last year’s Suffolk junior match play champion, piled on relentless pressure to win 7 and 5. Luke Thompson of Rookery Park, played steadily to beat Jack Forgan of Stowmarket 3 and 2. Hall overcame Monty Scowsill 2 and 1. At one stage Scowsill was three down and three under par. It was a quality performance from both players. It was a tough first round pairing because they were the only
winning Suffolk foursomes partnership in the Anglian League first team match against Leicestershire the previous weekend. Paul Waring (Felixstowe Ferry) was one of the favourites to win the trophy as Suffolk’s only qualifier for the Brabazon Trophy. Johnson, though, is a gritty match player who won the 13th and 14th to establish a three-hole lead which would have been greater had not Waring sunk several lengthy pressure putts. Waring fought back but Johnson held on for a one-hole victory. It was not a good day for Felixstowe Ferry as their Parks Trophy team, following on from the match play, also lost. Young Ben Aves of Bury St Edmunds faced Western and can take heart from the fact that he gave the eventual winner a competitive match. Bartrum won through against another Gorleston hope, Danny Perring, who could not reproduce the form that led to a second round of 70 in the stroke play. There was a tough battle between James Biggs (Diss) and Alex Taylor (Southwold). Biggs needed birdies at the eighth, ninth, 16th and 17th holes for a 2 and 1 victory Taylor, who has played for Lincoln University, may well win a major Suffolk title in the near future. In the afternoon Hall, with his mother doing a splendid job as caddy, beat Thompson 4 and 2 while Manser fought back to claim his second county first
team scalp when he beat Johnson one up. Johnson had been two up after 11. Western had the measure of Driver while Bartrum beat his Diss county colleague Biggs by one hole thanks to a birdie at the last. The Gorleston course was in excellent condition and club captain Mark Everard, secretary-manager David James, club members and staff proved to be welcoming hosts. It seemed strange that the most easterly golf course in England should provide a Suffolk winner by the name of Western. President’s Mashie results First round: Luke Thompson (Rookery Park) beat Jack Forgan (Stowmarket) 3 and 2, Ali Hall (Halesworth) beat Monty Scowsill (Woodbridge) 2 and 1, Josh Manser (Gorleston) beat Josh Cottrell (Ipswich) two up, Jasper Johnson (Woodbridge) beat Paul Waring (Felixstowe Ferry) one up, Josh Driver (Diss) beat Sam Byford (Ipswich) 7 and 5, Danny Western (Gorleston) beat Ben Aves (Bury St Edmunds) 3 and 2, Chris Bartrum (Diss) beat Danny Perring (Gorleston) 4 and 3, James Biggs (Diss) beat Alex Taylor (Southwold) 3 and 1. Quarter-finals: Hall beat Thompson 4 and 2, Manser beat Johnson one up, Western beat Driver 5 and 4, Bartrum beat Biggs one up. Semi-finals: Hall beat Manser 2 and 1; Western beat Bartrum 2 and 1. Final: Western beat Hall 2 and 1.
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NEWS from THE SUFFOLK GOLF PARTNERSHIP
It’s our game so ... SELL, SELL, SELL!
As I hope most of you are now aware, Get into Golf is a national initiative, providing opportunities for new and beginner golfers and aims to provide an accessible and appropriate entry into our sport. It supports England Golf’s Strategic Plan 2014-2017 entitled ‘Raising our Game’ around the outcomes of more players, more members and stronger clubs.
I am very pleased to report that our initial 3-month review demonstrates that Suffolk is currently one of the leading counties as far as Get into golf bookings are concerned, but I know we can do better…!
Before I elaborate further and to give some context, we currently have 16 golf facilities delivering a variety of projects under the Get into Golf banner. Some offer 4 weeks of basic and fun introductory coaching with more structured sessions available afterwards. Others have sessions for those that wish to improve or are returning to the game and some offer “Learn to Play in a Day” sessions for those that have time and availability constraints. No matter the activity, all equipment is provided free of charge and sessions are delivered in groups in an encouraging and supportive manner by PGA Professionals. Costs vary but all are very reasonable and help to hopefully illustrate that golf is not as expensive as perhaps perceived.
by Alastair Spink County Development Officer Mobile: 07545 155341 Email: alastair@suffolkgolfpartnership.co.uk Web: www.suffolkgolfpartnership.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @SuffolkGolf
• To locate your nearest Get into Golf sessions, contact information and to book online please visit www.getintogolf.org/suffolk
• By recommending a Get into Golf activity you will be assured that your friend, relative or work colleague etc will receive a warm and friendly welcome. Most clubs Alastair Spink will have a relaxed dress code, initially happy to accept trainers with many allowing jeans for the coaching sessions (although perhaps not on the golf course). • As existing golfers, we often tend to forget how intimidating golf and golf clubs can be perceived. Many of us probably play and enjoy competitions but new golfers may wish to play for other recreational reasons, such as just enjoying being outdoors and involved in healthy activity.
• We also mustn’t forget that there’s no better sport for bringing people together and for making new friends. In contrast to many other sports, golf truly is a game for life and with it’s winning combination of exercise, skill and social interaction it is the perfect game for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
• And of course to “close the deal” remember we To support these activities, England Golf, the Suffolk are blessed with some truly beautiful golf courses Golf Development Group and the golf clubs all work in Suffolk, situated in wonderful settings and incredibly hard to promote the sessions through a offering stunning views of the countryside. variety of methods including digital advertising, local media and attending public events. So, please help us to grow our game that we all love so dearly – golf is unique in so many ways and no And so back to my “I know we can do better” comment … although we have experienced a great matter how we sometimes feel when leaving the 18th start, I still believe the most successful and powerful green I know we can all promote it’s virtues and form of promotion remains “word of mouth”. Imagine encourage at least one other to get involved particularly now that you know there is such a therefore how well we could do if all our existing fantastic framework available throughout the county members and regular golfers were to become our to encourage and retain new golfers. most successful promoters - surely we could then make some real impact and start to grow the game on a local level?
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And so, if you choose to accept this mission, I have listed below a few thoughts that might help you to refine your “pitch”:-
If nothing else I hope that perhaps when considering these points it will remind you of why you started to play golf and how easy it is for us all to overlook it’s qualities, especially when we’ve just missed a 2 footer!!!
ROYSTON JOHN WHITING
The end of May saw the passing of John Whiting, a staunch supporter of Suffolk Golf. In recent times a member of Bungay & Waveney G.C. John had been involved in East Anglian golf for over 45 years. Previously a Captain of Rushmere G.C. he also had spells at the Halesworth and Stowmarket Clubs, and in fact took over as President of the Suffolk Winter Alliance from Stow’s John Gooderham nearly 20 years ago. Much of John’s leisure time was spent organising and playing golf, regularly turning out for the Past Suffolk Captains, or organising Stour Valley Golf Society events in his role as Secretary. He could be generally relied on to turn out for many charity days which included those for The Air Ambulance and Norfolk Blind Society. Other past times enjoyed by John were woodworking and motor cars, having in earlier days been involved with Cycles both push and motor. John leaves behind wife of over 60 years, Barbara, 4 daughters, 8 grand and 4 great grand children. by Bill Darling, Suffolk Winter Alliance Committee
Warren Richards has become the New Rushmere Golf Club Captain for 2015/16. His chosen charity for his Captains year is Local Mental Health Charities and his Captain’s Day, held the day after his drive-in, raised over £1000.
Warren Richards, Spot the Ball!
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BUNGAY GOLF CLUB RAISES £3000 FOR charity golf day was held, at Bungay & CANCER RESEARCH AWaveney Valley Golf Club. 96 ladies, from
the eastern region played in the competition, which was won by Diane Hegarty, Kim Ward, Fiona Todd and Ann Spencer, from Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club. Bungay Ladies Captain, Colly Muttitt, said, “I was thrilled that we managed to raise over £3,000 for Cancer Research. Most of us have been affected by cancer, either directly or indirectly, and consequently everyone was very generous”. ‘Lauren Lou’ the Pink Robin Reliant, which is used as a fund-raising vehicle for Cancer Research in the Lowestoft area, was at the course for the day and Gary Bennett, the driver, talked to the ladies about the fund-raising done by ‘Lauren Lou’.
BEN WAS BEST
Right: Ben Tawell (Rushmere GC) being presented by Club Captain Les Howard, with the Stuart Paul Cup which is the Rushmere Club Championship Nett, Ben had a nett total of 137.
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Suffolk Ladies start County Match Week with the promise of good things to come… This year’s inter-county matches were hosted by Essex and played at Chigwell, a course which many will know rolls over parkland, offering generous fairways and plenty of trees to exercise the golfing brain.
by
Julie
Since Essex and Hertfordshire joined Bedfordshire, Cambs & Hunts, Norfolk and Suffolk to form the East Region of England, it has become habitual to expect either of them to win the coveted place in the finals of the English County Championship. Not that the original four counties lack ambition to knock the ‘big two’ off their perch but, out-classed by sheer numbers which turn out trim and fit and talented young golfers in an apparently endless stream, the task can be a little daunting. Nevertheless, everyone goes bravely into the fray, buoyed up by hope and expectation.
Above: Suffolk group waiting for the off.
Left: Going to do a runner? No! - looking too happy! County President, Miss Ann Graves and County Captain, Sarah Saggers
Suffolk first met Bedfordshire, traditionally not the strongest county but who have oft-times sprung a surprise and turned out to be tough. This time, Suffolk began well, capturing two points from the three foursomes matches and Bell, Inglis and Symonds played some effective single matches to put three more points on the board for the five needed to claim victory. So far, so good. Next came Cambs & Hunts. Often very hard to beat, nevertheless Suffolk sailed confidently into action. Again, they were 2-1 up at lunch. The singles proved productive. Lily Kent made the most of the one day she was available, adding a point to her morning success. Whyman won the Champions’ game. Bell, Howe and Symonds joined the winners’ circle. Suffolk 7, Cambs & Hunts 2.
Latimer-Jones
It would take too long to put everyone’s point of view, so we’ll stick to the Suffolk experience. A Back row (left to right): Lils James, Tanya McGregor, mixture of mature, youthful and inexperienced Sarah Saggers (Captain), Miss Ann Graves (President), golfers met up at Chigwell under the captaincy of Sarah Saggers. Most were familiar: Vanessa Bell, Sharon Luckman. Middle row (left to right): Vicki Inglis, Abbie Symonds, Lottie Whyman, Vanessa Bell. Sarah Howe, Vicki Inglis, Lils James and Sharon Front row (left to right) Sarah Howe, Ellie Aldous. Luckman plus the younger element which included Lottie Whyman, this year’s Suffolk Champion, Ellie Aldous, Abbie Symonds and Lily Kent. Then there was Tanya McGregor, new to the County scene, a real golfing enthusiast.
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Wednesday was a red letter day! Suffolk took on Hertfordshire and beat them five games to four. No one could remember when Suffolk last won three matches consecutively but, for the third time, they earned two of the three foursomes’ points which was hugely helpful. Three points needed from the singles sounds simple, but is hard to do against Hertfordshire who are always demons on the putting green. This time, Lottie Whyman stepped up to beat Alison Leake by 6/5 and Vanessa Bell beat Esther Strauss 4/3. With the outcome of the overall match in the balance, the day’s heroine was Ellie Aldous, at the tail versus Nicola Callendar. Ellie reached eighteen one up, needing a half to win. Nicola needed a win for a halved match. Ellie was up to the task, made the most of Nicola’s eventual putt which charged past the hole and turned in a point for a 2-up scoreline and a Suffolk victory.
The final two days were an anti-climax for Suffolk. Norfolk were the next opponents and, over the years, the honours between the two counties have been pretty even. This year, however, Norfolk proved too strong for the Suffolk contingent who, at times, looked a little jaded. It is a very long week especially if you’re on the receiving end. Sharon Luckman and Lils James secured the only foursomes point. In the singles, Vanessa Bell continued her steady performance against Tiffany Mills and Sharon Luckman beat Jess Dixon. Norfolk won 6-3. That left Essex who had carried all before them on the first four days and were still striding down the fairways looking as fresh as daisies. They garnered all three foursomes points, so needed only two points from the singles for a clean sweep and a smooth route to the County Finals. Three Suffolk
players slowed them up just a little. Lottie Whyman, the young Champion, had a splendid battle with Hannah Moul, winning by two holes in a game full of excellent golf and good-natured competition. Ever dependable, Vanessa Bell worked hard to beat Sophie Madden by 2/1. Sarah Howe, always determined, shared a valuable point with Holly Haslam. Tanya McGregor deserves a mention. Playing her first County single match against Emily Irons, she stuck to her task, taking her opponent to eighteen before losing by two holes. Final score: Essex 7.5, Suffolk 2.5 So a good week? Yes. Disappointing? Yes a little, especially to be named in fourth place. Essex, of course, had five match wins, match wins being the criteria at that point. Norfolk, Hertfordshire and Suffolk each had three match wins and the placings were calculated on individual match points, which seems a little hard in the circumstances, particularly if you happen to be a Suffolk supporter. But never mind! As has been said before ‘there’s always next year’.
Suffolk Ladies County Golf Association Current Officers:
President: Ms Ann Graves Tel: 01394 411020; Captain: Mrs Sarah Saggers Tel: 01394 383583. Vice-Captain: Ms Vanessa Bell Tel 01473 231411; Hon Secretary: Mrs Jeanette Longman: Tel 01394 450939; Hon Treasurer: Miss Hermione Scrope Tel 01359 232618; England Golf Representative: Ms Rebecca Evans Tel 01787 464624; Handicap Adviser: Mrs Eunice Gray Tel 01473 833392; Junior Organiser: Miss Sarah Howe Tel: 07990 110976 ; Seniors Organiser: Mrs Jo Moore Tel: 01502 711155; Scratch Score Assessor: Mrs Sue Cook Tel 01728 688406. All other personnel may be found on the County website at www.suffolkladiesgolf.org.uk
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOAN Joan (Mrs Rushmere), joined Rushmere Golf Club in the early
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60’s and in that time has served as Lady Captain twice, 1968 & 1989, was Club President 1998/99, and has been a Trustee of the Club up until this year. Joan has also helped the Club on two occasions at least, running the Club as Secretary. She is full of knowledge and has kept present day General Manager, Bob Tawell, informed of all regulations that have to be kept up to date. Joan was presented with some vintage wine at the recent AGM by Club President Brian Trett. On her 90th Birthday, Business Chairman Mr Terry Mills presented Joan with 6 Crystal glasses from the Club, suitable inscribed Mrs Joan Leggett (Mrs Rushmere) with a well-deserved celebrating her 90th birthday with the message. Ladies Section, Past Captains and Trustees
Law wins second English title by 16 shots World number three Bronte Law set out to stamp her authority on the English women’s amateur championship – and she succeeded, retaining her title at Hunstanton on 13-under par and with a 16-shot winning margin.
Bronte Law
(Image © Leaderboard Photography)
“I didn’t just want to come here and win by a bit. I really wanted to put a stamp on this, that’s what I came here to do,” said the 20-year-old from Bramhall in Cheshire.
challenges each day and trying to be best player I can be. “I kind of forgot about the score and tried to enjoy the experience – and having my family with me made it so nice,” she said. Law was accompanied by her mother, 11-year-old sister Bella, 91-yearold grandfather and the family dog. Dad had to go to work!
She paid tribute to her home coach, Richard Green at Bramhall, who “has taught me the sort of shots I needed out in the wind. He has been really influential throughout my career.”
Law is only the fourth player to successfully defend the trophy and the first for 20 years. She went on: “Coming back and winning this again is big for me. Her experience at university in America, where she You can win once, but winning again really proved to is a student at UCLA (University of California, Los me that I have come a long way as a player.” Angeles) has also played its part – and she has two more years there. Her outstanding performance was recognised by Hunstanton, which made her an honorary member. Meanwhile, the battle for second place was won by Yorkshire’s Rochelle Morris (Woodsome Hall) who pipped Lizzie Prior (Burhill) with her better last round after they both finished on three-over.
But first, her attention turns to next week’s European individual championship in Austria. “Having four solid rounds of stroke play under my belt is definitely going to help me,” she said.
Bronte Law made her title intentions very clear from the first round when she opened with a score of nine-under par 63, which included 11 birdies. She followed up with 69 in the second round and was one-under for today’s final 36 holes with scores of 69, 74, returned in an ever increasing wind.
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“I said to my dad that this was a competition for second place,” laughed Morris, who was delighted with her achievement. “I grew up on a windy course and I’m usually pretty decent in the wind.”
In this morning’s third round she got to six-under par after the 15th, with a pair of eagles and a pair of birdies but dropped shots on the last three holes. In the final round, the winds grew steadily stronger, but Law responded with steady play designed to limit any errors.
“I’m really happy with how I played in the conditions today. It was tough and to be under par for the day is pretty good. It’s windy out there and when you stand over those short putts they don’t feel so short anymore!” Her lead grew and grew throughout the tournament, from three shots, to 10, to 13 and finally to 16. But she never relaxed: “I don’t get complacent, I know there’s a lot of good players out there. I never think I’m cruising. For me it’s about creating my own
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Tyler wins Silver Barrel by Tony Garnett
James Tyler, who plays off a handicap of three, won the Silver Barrel at his home club Ipswich, with a net score of 140. He had rounds of 72 and 74 (net 69 and 71) to beat 14-year-old Habebul Islam into second place by one shot. Habebul had net 71 and 70.
Habebul, who plays off a handicap of four, is among the entries for the Reid Trophy, the England Boys’ Open under 14 Championship to be played at Preston Golf Club on August 4, 5 and 6. The other Suffolk player in that field is George Fricker of Ufford Park. They tee off within 10 minutes of one another at 10.00 and 10.10. Habebul is considering playing in the Suffolk Junior Championship at Waldringfield on Monday, August 3 so it would be an exhausting few days should he go ahead with that schedule. The Silver Barrel was played on a day when there were some heavy showers on the Purdis Heath course which was in superb condition.
James Biggs of Diss had the best gross scores to earn points in the Suffolk Golf Union order of merit. He had rounds of 69 and 74 to beat Robert Salter (Woodbridge) into second place by three shots. Salter had two rounds of 73. Tyler was third on count back. Luke Thompson of Rookery Park was fourth with 147 and Habebul fifth with 149 which beat several established players who are regulars in their club’s Stenson Shield squads. The Silver Barrel was presented to the club by Tolly Cobbold Brewery in 1964. The first winner was Harry Head.
Leading gross scores (Ipswich unless stated). 143: James Biggs (Diss) 69 74. 146: Robert Salter (Woodbridge) 73 73, James Tyler 72 74. 147: Luke Thompson (Rookery Park) 74 73. 149: Habebul Islam 75 74. 152: Jasper Johnson (Woodbridge) 79 73. 154: Connor James 76 78. 155: Simon Godbold 75 80, Kane Mayes 75 80, Mark Lewis 73 82. 157: Russell Rayner 82 75, Toby Spink (Felixstowe Ferry) 79 78. 158: David Reid (Woodbridge) 76 82. 159: Ben Sayers (Felixstowe Ferry) 79 80, Ian Pope (Rushmere) 75 84. 160: Ricky Dzierozynski (Woodbridge) 78 82. 161: Sean Sidney 84 77, James Hellyer (Hintlesham) 81 80, Warren Goddard 81 80, Malcolm Pook (Five
James Tyler of Ipswich Golf Club is presented with the Silver Barrel by club vice-captain Brian Adams. Photograph: CONTRIBUTED
Lakes) 81 80, Adam Golding 80 81, Andy Clark 80 81. 162: Dominic Rosser (Woodbridge) 79 83, Jack Forgan (Stowmarket) 78 84, Tom Fowler 75 87. 163: Trevor Hellyer (Stowmarket) 83 80, Jordan Dymond 81 82 Mark Fosker (Felixstowe Ferry) 80 83.
Brett Vale
golf club
Set in the heart of Constable Country where a warm welcome is always guaranteed
SOCIETIES WELCOME Surrounded by stunning Constable Country, Brett Vale golf course offers a challenge to players of all ages and handicaps; along with first class facilities.
Membership available with no joining fee
Fantastic function room available for that special occasion or business meeting For all enquiries please telephone 01473 310718 'We go that extra mile, why don't you!'? Noakes Road, Raydon, Near Ipswich, Suffolk, IP7 5LR
www.brettvalegolf.co.uk
EXCEPTIONAL DRAINAGE PLAYABLE ALL YEAR
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CAPTAIN’S WEEK
Fakenham Golf Guy Stratton with past Lady Captain Club Captain, Guy Jean Seppings Stratton, held his Captain’s Week and Captain’s Day with a week long stableford competition open to all. This was supported by over forty members playing during the week. A nine hole Texas Scramble was held on a perfect summers evening. 18 Teams of three participated followed by a BBQ in which family members attended. At the weekend a full complement of over 60 players played in a qualifying stableford, which was followed by a hog roast being served to players and guests after the golf. PRIZE WINNERS. Captain’s Week 1st P. Allen 2nd N. Featherstone
42 pts ocb 42pts
Texas Scramble 1st R.Linley, J. Seaward, P. Allen 31.3 2nd G. Stratton, Miss J. Robotham, T. Jarvis 31.7 Captain’s Day 1st C. Humphry 2nd D. Olley 40pts
40pts ocb
Hidden Partners 1st D. Olley / G. Lumsden 78pts 2nd B. Reynolds / B. Porter 71pts ocb Ladies 1st
Miss B. Townsend
34pts
Straightest drive 10th Hole - A. Keeler Nearest the Pin 18th Hole - R. Gould
Daniel Jennings will be the new Rushmere Junior Captain, with Charlotte Woodage his Vice Captain.
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Daniel Jennings Rushmere Junior Captain, Carol Perks Junior Organiser, Charlotte Woodage Rushmere Junior Vice Captain.
Stowmarket Golf Club was delighted to host the Suffolk Professional Golf Association Championships and Trainee Championship
In spite of chilly, cloudy conditions, and a fresh wind blowing, 23 Professional Golfers battled it out for this prestigious county professional title. Many congratulations to the prize winners and in particular to Patrick Spraggs, professional at Woodbridge Golf Club and past member of Stowmarket Golf Club, before turning professional who, with rounds of 68 (the only round under par) and 71 (139 in total) won both The Mallinson Trophy (SPGA Champion) and The Dell Bower Trophy (SPGA Trainees Champion). Peter Latimer was Runner-up in both, with scores of 70 & 71 (141). Bradley Wilkins was in third place, again in both Championships, with scores of 75 & 72 (147). Chris Smith in fourth place, 76 & 73 (149) completed the prize winners. Stowmarket GC were delighted to receive a very complimentary letter from Terry Broome, Suffolk PGA Secretary commenting that the course proved to be in magnificent condition, with some testing pin positions making for a very challenging but worthy proposition, particularly when the weather deteriorated to persistent rain in the afternoon, mid-round for most, severely testing many of the competitors ‘skill levels. All in all it made for a good Championship. Assisting as competition starters were Stowmarket GC President Bill Darling and Club Captain David Fletcher.
BELOW: Patrick Spraggs (left) is seen holding the The Mallinson Trophy which is the Suffolk PGA Championship prize received from Terry Broome (right) SPGA Secretary, whom is holding The Dell Bower Trophy, - Suffolk PGA Trainees Championship which he also won. Dell Bower is the Suffolk PGA President.
NEW FORMAT CHAMPIONSHIP A HIT
A new format for the Newton Green Golf Club men’s championship, incorporating a presentation barbecue, proved a great success. The 36-hole championship for single handicappers, along with similar 18-hole titles for 10-18 and 19-28 players, were dovetailed to end at the same time. Previously, the higher handicap events ended at lunch time, leaving the single figure golfers to continue on their own in the afternoon. The new format meant a large crowd was present to see Greg Hills pick up the president’s salver for Kieron Sorrell, Greg Hills and Craig Rollinson completing the 36-hole event with a three over par 142. It was a hat-trick of wins for the three handicapper (now back to two), having previously won the title in 2010 and 2011. He missed the next season while working abroad, and watched rivals Ian Woodhead and Russell Oakey lift the trophy the following two years. Hills recorded rounds of 72 and 70 to regain the title, just one shot ahead course record holder Jed Seeley, who carded 73 and 70, with former champion Oakey a further shot behind on 144, with rounds of 70 and 74. In the 10-18 handicap event, Kieron Sorrell won the Harry Wordley Trophy with a score of 80, just one shot better than fellow junior James Cooper, while next on 83 were Nigel Gerrans, Sam Pritchard and Ben Wilkinson. In the 19-28 division Craig Rollinson, whose handicap has been plunging since joining the club a year ago, won on 85 from Tom Wise 89 and Roger Leonard 92.
Woodbridge trainee pro Spraggs sInks monster putt for PGA win
Patrick Spraggs clinched the Weston Homes plc East Herts Classic in sensational style by draining a 50-foot birdie putt on the final green. The first-year PGA trainee from Woodbridge Golf Club led for the majority of the second round of the PGA in England (East) order of merit event before James Webber (Three Rivers) pegged him back at the penultimate hole. Webber nailed a 14-footer for eagle before Spraggs (right) missed a five-foot birdie putt to leave both men at sevenunder-par heading to the last tee. It appeared to be odds-on a play-off after neither golfer could knock it in close at the 192-yard par-3. But Spraggs, 24, judged his long-range left-to-right breaker to perfection, celebrating with a fist pump. And moments later, after Webber was unable to convert his 30-footer, the Suffolk-based player was able to savour the biggest win of his short professional career. Back-to-back rounds of 67 left him victorious at eightunder-par, just nine days on from finishing dead last in a regional Open Championship qualifier at West Lancashire. Spraggs said: “That 50-footer on the last really capped off a good two days for me. It was pretty surreal, to be fair... I was just expecting a play-off. But
I’m really chuffed to hole a putt like that. “When it was rolling, it looked dead centre to me, so I was getting a little bit excited. And the fist pump, I don’t know if that was really called for, but who cares! It feels brilliant.” Spraggs, who completed a sportsbased degree at the University of Stirling in 2013, is this season competing for the first time on the East region circuit. He failed to make the top-40 in the two previous order of merit tournaments but indicated that his success at East Herts will give him a fresh surge of belief. Spraggs added: “This just means that I can actually do it again, because I was kind of doubting myself. I had a poor start to the season and Open qualifying last Monday was not very good. “But I made a few little swing changes and, Bob’s your uncle...this is great! It is a big, big confidence boost for me – a good step in the right direction.”
WESTON HOMES PLC EAST HERTS CLASSIC (PGA in England East, order of merit) leading scores: 134: P Spraggs (Woodbridge) 67 67. 135: J Webber (Three Rivers) 67 68. 137: D Salisbury (Three Rivers) 71 66; D Charlton (Dunstable Downs) 68 69. Selected others: 143: I Ellis (Great Yarmouth & Caister) 73 70; Neil Mitchell (Bury Golf Range) 70 73. 145: C Smith (Fynn Valley) 71 74; T Clements (Eaton) 71 74.
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Charity Day at Halesworth Golf Club raises £14,426 for East Anglian Air Ambulance
Another hugely successful event enabled Halesworth Golf Club to hand over a cheque for £14,426 including a very generous donation of £1000 from Barclays Bank to the East Anglian Air Ambulance, an organisation for whom they have been raising funds for 13 years, with an accumulated total of over £128,000 to date. The team Stableford competition took place on the 18 hole Blyth Course at Halesworth. The event had fantastic support with 55 teams of 4 playing the immaculately presented course, players enjoyed bacon rolls before play and finished with a two course meal and prize presentation. With over 45 Golf Clubs donating courtesy rounds, and local business supporting through Tee and Green Sponsorship including Mitchells Renault who have repeatedly given their support to this event for the Hole in One prize on the 11th. A huge prize table beckoned enabling 20 teams to take away prizes, the overall winners enjoying two rounds of golf at a venue of their choice up to the value of £400. Organisers Gary Slaymaker and Ashley Turner would like to thank everyone who supported the event either by playing, sponsoring or volunteering and are already planning next year’s golf day which will be played on Friday 17th June 2016. Eric Burt (Rushmere GC), got his fifth Hole-in-one at the Entry forms for the 2016 golf day will be 14th hole recently. Above with his playing partners: L-R available to download from David Duffell, Eric Burt, Jim Pendle and Harry Gallant www.halesworthgc.co.uk very soon.
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NEWTON WOMEN ON A WINNING STREAK
Newton Green Golf Club’s low handicap women have hit a successful streak, although the high handicap members of the Suffolk Cranworth Trophy team has fallen at the first hurdle. Club champion Alice Barlow has added the Suffolk Girls’ Junior title to her current collection The Newton Green Stearn team: Sally Cade, Cate Fraser, Lorna Lowe, Rebecca of awards, just beating Evans, Di Cunningham, Pat Hawkins (captain) and Jan Doe. Newton colleague Ellie Aldous on count back in the 36-hole championship event at Ipswich Golf Club. Due to school examination commitments, Barlow has been forced to pull out of the Suffolk Ladies team playing in the Eastern Counties Golf Week towards the end of July, although Aldous will still be there to represent Newton. Barlow pulled off a significant win in the club’s home Weston League Division One match with Felixstowe, beating the visitor’s highly-ranked Amanda Norman in the top match of the day. It set Newton on the path to a convincing 4 -1 victory in this scratch team event, and followed the cliff hanger defeat against favourites Ipswich in the opening match. Other winners for Newton against Felixstowe were Aldous, Emily Penfold and Cate Fraser, with Sally Cade the only player to taste defeat. As lead player, Barlow scored her third successive victory in the Weston as Newton beat Bungay 3 – 2, and look assured of holding their place in the top division. Aldous and Penfold put the team into an unassailable lead, with Fraser and Di Cunningham, who missed a putt on the 18th to go into a play-off hole, just going down in the following matches. In in the first round of the Suffolk Stearn Trophy (handicaps 12-20), Newton came out victorious 2 -1 at Waldringfield, and now travel to Rookery Park, Lowestoft, in the next round of a competition played off 36 holes. On this occasion Cade and her partner Jan Doe pulled off the allimportant victory against the home club, being two up to Mary Tucker and Margaret Knott. Earlier, Newton’s Laura Lowe and Cate Fraser had completed a comfortable seven and six win against Pat Dougan and Liz Jones, while the visitor’s pairing of Cunningham and Rebecca Evans tasted a similar margin of defeat against Trish Galleway and Liz Smith. However, the recent run of team success was a different story for the club in the Cranworth Trophy, which has ended on the Newton trophy shelf twice in recent years, with defeat against Haverhill on the neutral Waldringfield venue.
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Swinging by numbers!
Over the past few years we have seen a great move towards (and reliance on) ball flight systems. With the advent of Trackman/Flightscope/GC2 systems, the golfer can now find out exactly what actually took place during their last swing – as long as it was hit from the centre of the clubface! However, the numbers that they produce can only be useful to you if you understand the context in which they were produced. Coupling this knowledge with an expert diagnosis of the numbers by a PGA Professional can help to really move your game forward. e.g.- If the clubpath was 2° in to out, with the clubface 1° closed to the target, on a 4° angle of decent with a forward shaft lean of 6° - what would be the likely result of your 6 iron shot? - The most likely result would be a strong, low draw to the left but will be determined by how accurate the strike was from the centre of the club! As a golfer, it can be helpful to know some of these numbers, but more importantly we need to know how it felt to produce a specific shot in order to reproduce it when we need it.
As there is no way to obtain any of these numbers while playing a game on the course, to be reliant on these numbers to assess your play may be counter-productive in the long term. It is only when you can incorporate some degree of feel for these movements - by understanding your body’s biomechanics - that you can truly own your own golf swing on the golf course. For expert analysis of your golf swing contact The Doctorgolf Academy on details below.
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Stuart Robertson PGA Golf Professional The Doctorgolf Academy Ufford Park Woodbridge 01394 383480 mail@doctorgolf.co.uk www.doctorgolf.co.uk @doctorgolf247
Seen above is St Audrys Seniors Captains Day winner, Tony Rhodes, being presented with the Silver Salver by Seniors Captain John Goodship . Tony won with 43 stableford points from Guest Eddie Gillett with 41 who was second, and Member John Henson with 40, third. Tony also won the pairs prize with his guest Laurence Irving scoring a joint total of 80 points. On the day, 52 players took part in glorious sunshine and a total of close to £1500 was raised for this years charity St Elizabeth's Hospice. * * * Improvements to the clubhouse at St Audrys continue with members re furbishing the veranda decking, rails and furniture. The main steps are also in the process of re-building in brick. Further re-decoration is scheduled ahead of the Clubs 60th anniversary year in 2016.
John Horne (centre) achieved his first hole in one, at the Par 3, 161 yards, 14th Pond Hole at Rushmere GC, using a Rescue 4. His playing partners were James Barker (left) and Derek Gardiner (right).
Peter Ballingall
@
LETTER FROM SPAIN
I mentioned in an earlier piece how many more British golfers have visited us this year, than ever before and so we were delighted to welcome Stuart Smith, a Norfolk/Suffolk professional, and his group of thirty players from Thetford, Saffron Walden and Hayden Grange Golf Clubs.
I didn’t get to meet all of them but those that I did speak to enjoyed this, their first visit. The temperatures were unseasonably low – in the mid 20’s – including one afternoon of rain [what is that?] and some stiff breezes that almost all found challenging, but everyone spoke highly of the condition of the courses and the resort in general.
Stuart is a most affable character, very energetic, who epitomises the ‘new breed’ of golf professional who gets off his ‘butt’ and works hard to promote his classes. Good on you, mate! We hope you will return again next year.
I have been enthralled by the England-New Zealand ODI cricket matches. What joy to see the ‘new look’ English team, young and talented all, playing without fear of failing and taking the risk etc. They, like the New Zealanders, seem to play now with a smile on their faces.
In this atmosphere it barely matters who wins or loses, for in truth, there can be no ‘losers’ when the entertainment and excitement they give us is so different to that of the past. It can and should be the same in golf. Why do so many take it all so seriously when they play? Why do so many ‘beat themselves up’ when they make mistakes?
Jenny Lee Smith [now Lucas] was Europe’s greatest lady golfer in the 80’s and 90’s who won the British Ladies Open Golf Championship, the biggest ladies championship in the world, whilst still an amateur and who was , for a period, Barnham Broom Golf Club’s Ambassador on tour, always played with a smile on her face – and what a ‘bonny’ smile it was too! When she played a poor shot she LAUGHED – which was why she endeared herself to everyone who played with her. We must remember not to let our bad shots get to us. True ‘scramblers’ are thick-skinned and they always beat the ‘Whiners’!!
Mrs B. spent a fortnight in Devon but also made a visit to Norfolk to play with Annie Charlton in The Royal West Norfolk Invitation Day. They played and had fun in spite of finding many of the bunkers there. She then returned to Devon to play in an Open Day with her son, coming sixth with 42pts that included four three-putts! Such is golf – but she smiled, I know, as she always does … even with a golf club in her hands. Enjoy!
Contact me, Peter Ballingall at: Apartado de Correos 101 21450 Cartaya (Huelva) ESPAÑA Tel: (0034) 959 02 42 42 or E-mail: pballingall@golfelrompido.es Website: www.peterballingall.com
Garry Robinson wins Senior Titles
Six handicapper, Garry Robinson won the Senior Club Championship (Bentwaters Cup) at Woodbridge Golf Club. Robinson was playing in his first senior event and he took the title with an impressive gross 73. With the course in excellent condition and the greens as true as they have been for many years, players were keeping an eye on the weather as rain was forecast.However the rain did not materialise and playing in the third group, Robinson recorded four birdies, one of which came at the last after a double bogey at 17. Hot on his heels were regular county senior players Steve Whymark (2) and Dick Barton (5) with 75’s. Robinson, then followed the feat of last year’s winner Mark Jackson, by winning the handicap trophy (Pennington Cup) by two shots from Peter Miller (86-17=69). Miller who has been struggling with a bad back, returned to form playing the last four holes in level par to pip Jon Marks and Dick Barton, who tied third with 70. Garry Robinson with the Pennington & Bentwaters Cups
Heacham Manor Ladies Invitational Tournament On what was officially the hottest day in July on record in the UK, Heacham Manor Golf Club staged their first Ladies Invitational tournament. Each member of the team invited 2 guests to play in the tournament which saw 51 ladies take part on the day. With the best 2 stableford scores on each hole counting and all 3 counting on the par 3’s, every team member had their part to play in the final L-R: Patricia Nixon, Rachel Hodgkinson, score. Jan Nixon and Angela Bissett. In an effort to help beat the heat, volunteers from the men’s senior team kept the ice cold beverages flowing on the course until the ladies had a chance to cool down back at the Avocet Barn, where the results revealed a tie between 2 teams on 87 points. After a beautifully presented late lunch in the Mulberry Restaurant served by new Head Chef Liam Starmer, Luke Harris, Deputy Golf Manager, presented the winners with their prizes. Rachel Hodgkinson, Ladies Captain, commented “It was fantastic to see so many ladies playing in our very first Invitational day at Heacham Manor. Even though it was the hottest day of the year everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy the day.”
1st Place: Angela Bissett (Heacham Manor) and her partners Jan Nixon (Searles) and Patricia Nixon (Ely City). 2nd place: Joan Gill (Heacham Manor) and her partners Marie Long (Middleton) and Jane Purdy (King’s Lynn). 3rd place: (85 pts) Anne Wells (Heacham Manor) and partners Judith O’Brien (Middleton) and Johanne Pywell (Searles).
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Mike NORFOLK COUNTY Devlin Hon GOLF UNION Secretary by
NCGU CONTACTS President
Doug Gilchrist, Weston Park Golf Club
Vice President
Graham Turner, Mundesley Golf Club
Imm. Past President
Alan Winstanley, Sheringham Golf Club
Hon. County Secretary
Mike Devlin, Acacia House, The Street, Tibenham. Norfolk. NR16 1QA Great Yarmouth & Caister Golf club niblick@btinternet.com 01379 674516
Hon. County Treasurer
Richard Betts, Gt Yarmouth & Caister Golf Club 01603 720957 email: richardbetts@btinternet.com
County Captain Kevin Wenn - Costesey Park Golf Club kevinwebb160575@gmail.com 2nd Team Captain Richard Wilson - Dereham Golf Club prorichard@aol.com
Seniors Captain Terry Norman, Great Yarmouth & Caister Golf Club, terrynorman45@hotmail.co.uk Seniors Administrator Malcolm Carr of Sheringham Golf Club malcolm.carr@tiscali.co.uk
Junior Secretary - Norman Blanch, 10, Hillside Crescent, Wicklewood, Norwich. NR18 9QD Tel: 01953 604394 normanblanch@btinternet.com Team Managers (Juniors): Andrew Cullington 01603 898311 ajcully@btinternet.com
The County Golf Union 2015 Coronation Savers hosted by Bawburgh Golf Club
Went the day well? - There's a familiarity about that question. The day was stormy, gusting winds and some squally showers. Hatches were battened, weather gear donned and all were prepared for the struggle ahead. Anyway, that was the forecast. In the end, a slight shower at the beginning of proceedings gave way to a really pleasant day. Some 52 pairs, including the current holders of the Championship, set off in pursuit of the main prize. The course at Bawburgh was in fantastic condition, a tribute to the Course Manager, Gary Beckwith and all of the greens staff. Early leaders in the clubhouse, Alfie Gotts & Brian Dack from Bawburgh Golf Club, carded a really impressive 38 stableford points and so began a nervous wait. One by one the remaining pairs completed their rounds and returned their scores, with still no one challenging their lead. Almost at the end of the field now and in came another 38 points total, that belonging to long time supporters of the event, Mark & Sharon Allen of Eaton GC. When the cards were checked, Mark & Sharon's score was beaten on countback for the second year running. So the final outcome and Champions for 2015 were Alfie Gotts & Brian Dack. Mark & Sharon finished second with Charlie Bick and Nick Gursky of Thetford coming in third with 36 points and past County Captain Iain Yule and his partner Freya Biles of Dereham, finishing in fourth on 35 points on countback from Giles Evans of Barnham Broom and Will Cross of Thetford.
Nick Macartney - 07766 805314
U18 Manager - Gary Davis - 01603 610006 email: davis393609@aol.com
PGA Secretary - John Paling ‘Squirrels Reach’, Folgate Lane, Old Costessey, Norwich NR8 5EF Tel: 01603 741301 jandjpaling@uwclub.net Norfolk Schools - Margo Horsburgh 5 Bishops Croft, Barningham, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP31 1BZ 01359 221281 dandmhorsburgh326@btinternet.com
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Girls Organiser - Carol Delf Gt Yarmouth & Caister Golf Club
(L to R) Alfie Gotts & Brian Dack receiving their Salvers from County President Doug Gilchrist
ROGER TROWER TROPHY
HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIPS
Costessey Park played host for the 2015 Handicap Championships and what hosts they were. A warm and friendly club, reflected in the membership who turned out in numbers, not just competing but providing ball spotters and course A testing time was had by all with sunshine and marshalls. heavy showers the order of the day. The course was The course was in fantastic condition, a tribute to in great condition and this only served to enhance the work undertaken by Course Manager Jon Coady its reputation with well defined, manicured fairways over the last few weeks and it all makes for good and good greens. The players showed their golf with the good weather enjoyed. appreciation of the course with some good scoring. Home player Roy Gee swept all before him with Jack Yule of Middleton Hall shot a fantastic gross 68 superlative rounds of nett 66 and nett 63 for a total taking the Roger Trower Trophy awarded in memory of 129 and with it taking the Handicap Champions title for 2015. of Roger who was the Norfolk County Secretary for Stephen Webster of Eaton also delivered an many years and himself a member of Royal impressive nett 69, followed by a nett 68, for a total Norwich. Chris Mullen and Darren Abbs both of of 137 which brought him second place on Royal Norwich came in with 72's, Chris taking countback just pipping Thomas Rutherford of Great second on count back leaving Darren in third. Yarmouth & Caister, also with a 137 total. Completing the top five positions was Joe Robinson Fourth was secured by Mark Bacon of Costessey and Philip Mullen. The handicap division was taken Park with a 138 total and young Mac Gee also of by Philip Mullen of Royal Norwich with a nett 67 and Costessey Park completing the top spots finishing with it the Handicap Salver presented to the club by fifth with a total of 140. the late Peter Clarke, a long time servant, President, Costessey Park continued their good form by Secretary and Treasurer of the County Union and a retaining the Handicap Team Championship Shield past President of Royal Norwich. Bother to Philip, for the second time in two years. Chris finished second with a nett 68. Third was The team of County Captain Kevin Webb, Aiden Sonny Williams also of Royal Norwich on a nett 69 Tanner and Roy Gee delivered a stunning six round beating Darren Abbs on count back and County total of 415 nett, overall some 5 shots under par, Captain Kevin Webb of Costessey Park completing leaving the rest of the competing teams in their the podium finishers with a nett 70. wake. The inaugural staging of the Roger Trower Trophy concurrent with the NCGU Order of Merit saw a strong field take to the fairways at Royal Norwich.
SCRATCH Name Jack Yule Chris Mullen Darren Abbs Joe Robinson Philip Mullen Richard Wilson Bruce McQuade Adrian Myhill Kevin Webb Scott Nicholls Ben Aldous HANDICAP Name Philip Mullen Chris Mullen Sonny Williams Darren Abbs Kevin Webb Joe Robinson Ben Aldous Adrian Myhill Jack Yule Alex Sergent
Club Middleton Hall Royal Norwich Royal Norwich Royal Norwich Royal Norwich Dereham Royal Norwich Royal Norwich Costessey Park Royal Norwich Bawburgh
Club Gross Royal Norwich 73 Royal Norwich 72 Royal Norwich 77 Royal Norwich 72 Costessey Park 75 Royal Norwich 73 Bawburgh 75 Royal Norwich 75 Middleton Hall 68 Costessey Park 82
Gross 68 72 72 73 73 74 74 75 75 75 75
H/c 6 4 8 3 5 3 5 4 -4 10
Nett 67 68 69 69 70 70 70 71 72 72
Below: Handicap Team Champions (Back Row: County Vice President Graham Turner and Club Captain Martyn Tanner - Front Row: Aiden Tanner, Kevin Webb and Roy Gee)
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ORDER OF MERIT at SPROWSTON MANOR GOLF CLUB
36 players were entered for the latest Order of Merit event this year at Sprowston Manor Golf Club. The sun was shining, the breeze blowing and the scoring was electric. Jack Yule (below right) triumphed in the Scratch with a fantastic 66. The plus 3 player from Middleton Hall just back from his exploits in the Amateur Championships at Panmure and Carnoustie, where he finished tied for third in the strokeplay before moving into the knock-out stages where he was eventually beaten by England player Ashley Chesters, was clearly in the mood for a win. Starting with a birdie he completed the first nine holes in 30 strokes and backed this up with a level par back nine of 36. Second spot was secured by Alex Bates of Dereham on 72 with Harry Brister of Bawburgh finishing third with 73. Jay Penfold of Swaffham came in a creditable fourth on 75 just pipping Paul Savage of King's Lynn also with a 75 on countback . The Handicap division was won by Bradley Smith of Royal Cromer with a nett 68, just easing out Costessey Park player Warren Blackwell on countback. Ben Aldous of Bawburgh finished third with a nett 70, with Aiden Tanner of Costessey Park also with a nett 70 but losing out on countback coming in fourth. Paul Donaghy of Costessey Park completed the podium places finishing fifth with a nett 73. Sprowston Manor was in great condition and the players expressed their thanks to the club for hosting such a good event. Scratch Results Handicap Results Name Club Gross Name Club Gross H/c Nett Jack Yule Middleton Hall 66 Brad Smith Royal Cromer 72 4 68 Brad Smith Royal Cromer 72 Warren Blackwell Costessey Park 73 5 68 Alex Bates Dereham 72 Jack Yule Middleton Hall 66 +3 69 Warren Blackwell Costessey Park 73 Alex Bates Dereham 72 2 70 Harry Brister Bawburgh 73 Ben Aldous Bawburgh 75 5 70 Jay Penfold Swaffham 75 Aiden Tanner Costessey Park 76 6 70 Paul Savage King’s Lynn 75 Jay Penfold Swaffham 75 4 71 Ben Aldous Bawburgh 75 Harry Brister Bawburgh 73 1 72 Aiden Tanner Costessey Park 76 Paul Savage King’s Lynn 75 3 72 Peter Ogden Caldecott Hall 77
North Norfolk Golf Classic
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Two north Norfolk clubs have created a combined event, using scores from two competitions for the 72-hole North Norfolk Golf Classic. It started at Sheringham, with the 36hole handicap stroke-play Deterding Cup, followed by Royal Cromer for the 36-hole strokeplay Golf Coast Cup. The Deterding Cup was won with scores of 71 and 74, by Lee Willis from Crondon Park. The 36-hole gross prize was won with scores of 73 and 76, by Kevin Goude of Tydd St Giles. The next day, in battling weather, 71 players from the east region played for prizes at Royal Cromer. Rookery Park’s David Porter, handicap 11, was victorious with rounds of 71 and 70, just pipping home captain Joe Thwaites into second. Willis won the gross prize with two 78’s. The North Norfolk Golf Classic prizes were also picked up by Willis and Porter.
KING’S LYNN MIXED OPEN
The King's Lynn Golf Club held their June Mixed Open day which attracted 53 pairs from 27 clubs. The weather was not one would expect in June, but players were not put off. The Captain, David Lawman, welcomed the players and presented the prizes, together with the Ladies Captain, Pat Arnold. The prize winner were: Lisa & Stephen Cooper (Woodbridge Golf Club) 52pts; 2. April & Chris Cooper (Eaton Golf Club) 46pts; 3. Sue & Paddy Lockwood (Newton Green Golf Club) 45 pts; 4. Hillary & Roger Smith (Royal Cromer Golf Club) 45pts; 5. Ann & David Norman (Royal Cromer Golf Club) 44pts; Best front 9 - Jill & Paul Ollington 25pts (Costessey Park Golf Club); Best back 9 Susan & Jonathan Soar (Costessey Park GC)
AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Sheringham played host to this year’s Championships. The venue was spectacular despite the weather thrown at the weekend.
Round 1 saw only a little rain and Simon Clark of Gt Yarmouth & Caister took advantage of the weather window, to deliver the round of the Championships. Playing from the new Black Course Simon fired a superb five under par 65, and with it took the lead for the first round on day one from fellow competitors Matthew Bacon of Costessey Park, Nic Cains of Swaffham, Justin Fordham of Bawburgh, Paul Savage of King's Lynn, all lying joint second on 71. The afternoon saw the weather close in with a freshening breeze and more rain, the players were subjected to some pretty difficult conditions, but showing their mettle they met these obstacles with determination and not a little skill.
Simon continued to shine and by the end of round two he had maintained his lead over the field settling for a 72 and a combined total of 137. Matthew Bacon reduced the lead to four shots by the end of his round delivering a combined total of 141, just ahead of King's Lynn player Paul Reade on 143. At close of play on Day one, the cut for the top twenty players and ties was made at 152, enabling 24 players to go through to day two. Day two started very quietly with a gentle zephyr and no rain. The field began to reduce the lead of Simon, but he responded and by the end of round three was still four shots clear. The final round was altogether a different affair with heavy rain showers and driving winds changing the whole dynamics of the course.
Thaine Hacon, Simon Clark and Tom Carding
Simon Clark with President Doug Gilchrist
Bacon to fourth, completing the podium places was Harry Brister of Bawburgh finishing fifth on 297.
The Team Shield played for by teams of three concurrently to the Championships, was retained by Matthew Bacon showing real determination chipped last year’s Champions, Great Yarmouth & Caister away at Simon's lead and at last he caught him, which again put a smile on Simon Clark's face as he however Simon responded and once more moved was part of the team alongside fellow Gt Yarmouth clear, but now with a slender lead of only two shots. players Thaine Hacon and Tom Carding. This move proved decisive and Simon finally ran out as the County Champion for 2015 with a total of 291 The team will go forward to Brancepeth Castle Golf for the four rounds. Although finishing on 293 Club in Durham, to represent Norfolk at the England Matthew had himself been caught by James Hill of Golf Champion Club tournament later this year. Sprowston Manor, Name Club Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 who nipped in to CSS 72 CSS 72 CSS 72 CSS 75 Total take second, Nic Gt Yarmouth & Caister 65 72 74 80 291 Simon Clark Cains of Swaffham James Hill Sprowston Manor 75 71 71 76 293 who finished third 74 71 77 293 71 Swaffham Nic Cains and all with the Matthew Bacon Costessey Park 71 70 74 78 293 same score as Harry Brister Bawburgh 74 75 72 76 297 Matthew, but Thomas Nudd Royal Norwich 74 74 75 76 299 depriving him of Caldecott Hall 78 72 70 79 299 Peter Ogden second and third Thaine Hacon Gt Yarmouth & Caister 72 76 77 76 301 spot after countback William Farley Barnham Broom 76 72 77 77 302 74 78 72 78 302 Bruce McQuade Royal Norwich moving Matthew
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Senior seniors compete at Eaton Captains' Week
This year Captain Ted Evans rang the changes to include as many members as possible throughout Captains’ Week, ably assisted by Ladies’ Captain Christine Gallagher. Various competitions were staged, and they attracted a magnificent turn-out. Events took place for five-day members; 80 lady members competed on Lady Captain’s day; 193 members (31 ladies and 159 gentlemen and juniors) played on Captain’s Day itself, and there was also a skills challenge for juniors not yet able to compete at the level needed for 18 holes. The Captain was particularly pleased that 10 senior members aged 85+ years also played during the week, their ages adding up to a total of 883 years! The most senior player on the day was the ever youthful Harry Moorhouse, who was 97 years young when he played. Harry had his 98th birthday just days after the competition, and he is still a very regular player on the course at Eaton. The 85+ winner was John Murrow, and this year's overall Captain’s Day winner was Angus Campbell (pictured) with a score of 42 points off his 12 h’cap.
WELL DONE AMY!
Bawburgh Golf Club congratulate Amy Taylor on winning the Norfolk Ladies County Championship at Barnham Broom, at just 14 years old, becomes the youngest winner in the competition's history. Following 36 holes of medal play, Amy qualified for the last 16 to be played in match-play format.
The first morning, Amy had a tough draw against Sue Henderson (Dunston Hall) but managed to come out victorious by 3 & 2. This set up an intriguing quarterfinal against fellow Norfolk Junior Amelia Williamson (Royal Cromer) in the afternoon and, again, Amy played very well to win 3 & 2. The second morning's semi-final and, in the rain, Amy was up against another of Norfolk's Juniors in Jess Dixon from Thetford. Amy was in inspirational form and ran out a comfortable winner by 5 & 4.
The afternoon's final, and Amy's 6th round in just 3 days, was against home favourite Jo Ashmore. Once again, Amy was in excellent form and after 9 holes was already 6 up. She held her nerve and, following an exquisite chip on the par-5 13th, closed out the match 6 & 5 and, with it, sealed the Championship. Well done to Amy, (right) and her Dad Steve who caddied all six rounds, on what is an amazing achievement and, we all hope, will lead to even greater things in the coming months and years.
MUNDESLEY MIXED OPEN
Barnham Broom Ladies held their Club Championships on a recent weekend, with the 8 best gross scores going through to a match play event. The Results as follows:-
Recently the ladies of Mundesley GC held their annual Saturday - Qtr Finals: Mixed Open, having been in the planning for several Ellie Brown vs. Sheena Perry - Ellie Brown winning weeks and was blessed with good weather. They were Jo Ashmore vs. Jess Warner delighted to have many ‘old friends’ return for this Jo Ashmore winning enjoyable Greensomes competition which attracted Megan Mann vs. Lulu Humberston participants from Norfolk, Hertfordshire and Essex. - Lulu Humberston winning The winning team in the Home/Mixed category Tara Davis vs. Vanessa Mann - Tara Davis winning were Angie and Paul Ellis with 40 Stableford points. The Away team winners were Dallas and Geoff Sunday - semi Finals / Final Marsom (Royal Cromer and Royston respectively) Ellie Brown vs. Tara Davis - Ellie Brown winning with 38 points, returning to improve upon their 2nd Jo Ashmore vs. Lulu Humberston place two years ago. Jo Ashmore winning Compliments were paid to the wonderful condition of the 9 hole course, as well as the catering (including Final: Ellie Brown vs. Jo Ashmore the halfway house) by many of the visitors who will be - Ellie Brown winning welcomed, same time, same place next year!
“A WORD”
from your Norfolk Golf County Development Officer
ATTRACTING MORE FEMALE GOLFERS INTO THE GAME
A question I find myself being asked frequently by clubs on my travels is, “how can we increase our ladies membership and get more women and girls playing golf?” It is clear female membership numbers both nationally and locally have seen a decline over the last few years and this is a trend that needs to be reversed sooner rather than later. However, research by England Golf suggests that women are potentially one of the largest growth areas in golf huge latent demand for golf exists within the female population. To support clubs in this area England Golf have produced a number of fact sheets that offer clubs suggestions and recommendations based on the latest research to hopefully help attract and inspire new women players and members. The factsheets focus on 9 key areas that clubs could consider when looking to focus on women golfers:• RECRUITMENT • RETENTION • PLAYING OPPORTUNITIES • MEMBERSHIP • WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA • MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION • CLUB ENVIRONMENT • VOLUNTEERS • CLUB HANDICAPS All of the women’s factsheets plus many more useful case studies can be viewed and downloaded via the England Golf website www.englandgolf.org or the England Golf Clubhouse portal. As someone new to the game and this particularly applies to women, the biggest barrier is often just having the confidence to step through the golf club door as it can be a really nerve-racking experienceWhat equipment do I need? Am I allowed to play on the course without a Handicap? What should I wear? What are the rules? Everyone is staring at me. Everyone is better than me. I don’t fit in here etc etc… However, we all know through already being involved in the game that clubs and especially ladies sections, are often extremely friendly, welcoming, social and great places to be. Luckily for me, when I started I was helped by a friend who had also started playing just a few months before me. She acted as a mentor type figure and took me along to meet some of the ladies she was now regularly playing with. Over a cup of tea they were then able to answer my questions and show me around the club plus introduce me to some of the other members and so
forth which really helped to put my mind more at ease. They also introduced me to the Club Professional (who I subsequently booked some lessons with) and generally made me feel welcome and integrated into the club right from the start. On reflection this approach made my transition from absolute beginner to regular golfer a much more enjoyable and easier experience. It is fantastic to see that clearly many golf clubs now recognise the importance of this approach and are working hard on this aspect with their new members. Research suggests that the majority of people leave club membership within the first 18 months of joining because they didn’t feel part of the club so the importance of this integration process can’t be underestimated. I am aware that every club is different in their approach to recruiting and retaining members and different ideas will work for different clubs and their customers, one size does certainly not fit all. However, whether you’re a club with a thriving membership or not, it is vital to try and understand your strengths and weaknesses and identify what sets you apart from other clubs (a unique selling point) so you can then promote and market this to your customer effectively. Analysing why your current members (including women) joined and re-join every year is a well worthwhile exercise and is a relatively straight forward process through a properly constructed membership survey. In addition to this, the national ‘Get into Golf’ campaign is a great tool for clubs and Club Professionals to engage with in order to help attract new people to the game and your facility. Further details about this can be found at www.getintogolf.org If your club would like some help in developing a women’s offer or you are interested in any of the other points and initiatives I have highlighted please do get in contact with me and I will be only too pleased to help. Alternatively, if your club has had success in growing their ladies section through a certain approach or initiative, please do let me know as we are always looking for case studies and the opportunity to share good practice to help grow the game.
Happy golfing! Karen
E-mail- k.woodrow@englandgolf.org Mob- 07736 880922 Twitter- @NorfolkCGP Website- www.norfolkgolfpartnership.org
39
Dereham Golf Club News
by Jane Bizley, Ladies Captain
JUNIOR SECTION
Norwich City weren’t the only ones to play well on bank holiday Monday! Dereham Golf Club’s junior members continued the 2015 season by playing for the Ashfield Cup, kindly donated and sponsored by David Ashfield, and the Worthington Trophy, sponsored by Dillington Hall Estate.
Lily Farrelly with The competition saw some excellent Birdie Challenge scores at all levels. Alisha Margerum Trophy won the Ashfield Cup with a gross 81, closely followed by Freya Biles with a gross 82. In the Worthington Trophy Joe Crane had an amazing round to win his first 18 holes competition (87-28-59), second place went to Elliott Daniells (94-26-68). The prizes were presented by competition secretary Bill Sergeant. In the 9 holes competition Jacob Hales shot a fantastic gross score of 51 to take the Ashfield Cup salver whilst Gareth Catchpole played well to win the 9 holes Worthington Trophy salver with a net 35; overall third place went to Tom Smart. There was also a 5 holes competition which saw Jack Attfield taking pole position. Prizes were presented by Ladies Captain Jane Bizley. All winners and runners up received vouchers for the pro shop.
On a recent cloudy Sunday our 18 holes junior competition saw Max Jacobs win the Captain’s Junior Prize competition, whilst junior vicecaptain Immy Leeder took the Larking Gowen Junior Championship claret jug, which were kindly sponsored by Club Captain, Nigel Elmar and Larking Gowen, Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors. Max was pleased to win the Captain’s Prize completing the course with a gross 77, playing off a 7 handicap. Captain Nigel Elmar presented him with a glass golf trophy, a voucher for the pro’ shop and most importantly the Captain’s putter. The Captain also presented a voucher to runner-up junior captain Frazer Chettleburgh who lost out on countback.
Immy led the field of 13 juniors and won with a net 67 (81-14-67). She was presented with the Larking Gowen claret jug and voucher for the pro’ shop by Chris Greeves, a partner with the firm. Mr. Greeves also presented runner-up Joe Crane (93-23-70) with a pro’ shop voucher. Also during the afternoon there was a 9-hole competition which saw Jacob Hales take the gross prize with Tom Smart as runner-up. The Captain presented both with pro shop vouchers. The net prize went to Gareth Catchpole with George Sommerville taking the runner-up position, both of whom received pro shop vouchers sponsored by Larking Gowen. Jacob and Gareth also received commemorative trophies. Four of our younger juniors took part in a 5hole competition which was won by newcomer Jude Marsden-Mooney who was playing in his first junior competition. Jude received a salver and a pro-shop voucher donated by the Captain.
Dereham Golf Club will host its annual sponsored Junior Open on Friday 7th August, tee times from 12 noon. Please see website for details or contact junior organiser “Although the weather wasn’t great it stayed fine for Jane Bizley on 01362 693153. what is one of our biggest competitions of the year. All the juniors performed well, with some excellent scores from those in the prizes, both gross and net” said junior organiser Jane Bizley. “It was a lovely day, with 24 juniors participating in total. Everyone enjoyed the afternoon and we are most grateful to our Captain, Nigel Elmar, and to our sponsors Larking Gowen for their support and sponsorship once again this year,” she added.
Freya Biles, Alisha Margerum, Joe Crane & Elliott Daniells
40
The Norfolk Junior Girls’ Championship was held at Royal Cromer Golf Club recently. The Birdie Championship, a Stableford competition for girls with handicaps 25 and over, was won by Lily Farrelly of Dereham with 34 points on countback from Poppy Beales of Middleton Hall. * * *
CAPTAINS’ CHARITY EVENTS
In early May Dereham Golf Club’s Captains Nigel Elmar & Jane Bizley held their charity golf day in aid of Stroke Association.
A rather blustery day saw 92 players participating in a team event over 18 holes. The winners were Simon Chisholm, Charlotte Chisholm, Terry Vertigan & Nick Hird with 104 points. There was a silent auction and a raffle throughout the day which added to a large proportion of the entry fees raised £1310.50.
A couple of days later Steven Hammond from the East of England Ambulance Trust came along to instruct members and guests on how to use the recently installed community defibrillator should it be required. Both Captains had combined their fundraising efforts in order to purchase the defibrillator which is situated on the outside wall at the front of Dereham Golf Club. Their efforts were supported by Dereham & District Round Table to whom they are most grateful. Ladies Captain Jane Bizley with Steven Hammond and members of Dereham & District Round Table
Dereham Golf Club appoints new Club Professional
Dereham Golf Club has appointed Andrew Agnoli as their new Club Professional. He joins the Club from Bishops Stortford GC where he has been an Assistant for the last 10 years. Andrew said ‘ I am delighted to be moving to Norfolk to take up my first position as a Head Professional and am looking forward to working with the members at Dereham to continue to build upon its reputation as a friendly members club with an excellent 9 hole parkland course’ Stuart Bizley the Chairman of Dereham GC said ‘ The Club are very pleased to have secured the services of Andrew who comes with an excellent reputation for his coaching and he has already set about modernising the Pro shop to make it more welcoming to members and visitors alike as well as initiating a revamp of our Blue Course to make it more player friendly to those learning the game .
Pictured: Andrew Agnoli (centre) and his assistants George Bedwell (r) and Sam Naughnane
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NORFOLK SCHOOLS GOLF ASSOCIATION (Affiliated to the English Schools Golf Association)
By Hon Secretary - Margo Horsburgh, 5 Bishops Croft, Barningham, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP31 1BZ (Tel: 01359 221281) Email: dandmhorsburgh326@btinternet.com
NORFOLK’S AMELIA WILLIAMSON WINS ENGLISH SCHOOLS’ NATIONAL GIRLS’ CHAMPIONSHIP At the English Schools’ Golf Association’s National Golf Championships held at Peterborough Milton Golf Club, Norwich High School for Girls’ pupil, Amelia Williamson, won the girls’ title with scores of 73+73=146 (two over par) this by a stroke from Hertfordshire’s Hannah Screen with Lucy Walton from Worcestershire third on 149. This secured her place in the England team to play against Welsh Schools at Sherwood Forest Golf Club on 24th August 2015 and against Scottish Schools in Scotland on 14th September 2015. This followed on from her win at the South East Schools’ Regional Championships held at John O’Gaunt Golf Club at the end of May. Amelia had set out her intention to win the National Championships when she played at John O’Gaunt and she hasn’t disappointed. Amy Taylor, Wymondham College, who is the Norfolk Schools’ Girls’ Champion, came fourth with scores of 76+74=150 and she too will gain an international cap by playing in Scotland. She admitted that she was very nervous and wasn’t too happy with her morning round but her two over par afternoon score showed both grit and determination to make the international team.
Both girls were instrumental in securing the team trophy for the South East schools, which is played for by the five regions that make up the ESGA, with a score of 1,804 beating the South West region by 31 shots.
Both girls join a growing number of Norfolk players who have gained international recognition through schools’ golf and the County is certainly a force to be reckoned with especially as we are one of the smallest counties in England with regard to playing numbers.
NORFOLK ACHIEVES THREE OUT OF FOUR!! At the South East of England Schools’ Championships held at John O’Gaunt Golf Club, Toby Briggs (Thorpe St Andrew and Dunston Hall) and Amelia Williamson (Norwich High for Girls and Royal Cromer) (both right) made it a double celebration for Norfolk as they won the Boys’ Championship and Girls’ Championship respectively in very challenging conditions. There was further delight for the team from Norfolk as they scooped the girls’ team title, missing out on a clean sweep in the boys’ team which went to hosts Bedfordshire.
Heavy rain and blustery conditions made the morning round difficult which was reflected in the scoring, however, Toby produced a battling one-over-par 72 to take a one shot lead over Essex player Arron Edwards-Hill and Gregor Tait from Suffolk. 42
In improving conditions in the afternoon, the boys’ race was always close, with Toby posting a 75 giving an aggregate total of 147, five over par to win the title by one shot from Arron Edwards Hill.
Amelia found herself seven strokes behind at lunch after a morning 83 but was confident that she could post a good score in the afternoon. She returned a two under par 72 finishing three shots ahead of defending champion Hannah Screen from Hertfordshire. This score helped the girls to pick up the team championship, a clear 12 shots ahead of Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.
Both Toby and Amelia and have been picked to represent the South East Team at the National Championships at Peterborough Milton at the end of the month, however, Toby is unable to play due to his England commitments. Amy Taylor (Wymondham College and Bawburgh) who was part of the winning girls’ team also gained a place at the Nationals by finishing in fifth place in the Girls’ Championship.
The other member of the team was Ellie Brown (Hethersett Academy and Barnham Broom) 14th place. Abigail O’Riordan (Wayland Academy and Thetford), who was entered as an individual, finished in a credible 11th place. The other members of the boys’ team were Toby Lane (Wymondham College and Dunston Hall), George Bedwell (Easton & Otley College and King’s Lynn) and Ashley Johnson (Easton & Otley College and King’s Lynn) who finished 18th, 30th and 32nd respectively.
Once again Norfolk has proved they are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to Schools’ Golf.
NORFOLK PROFESSIONAL GOLFERS' ASSOCIATION
by Secretary, John Paling ‘Squirrels Reach’, Folgate Lane, Old Costessey, Norwich NR8 5EF Tel: 01603 741301 Email: jandjpaling@uwclub.net
N.P.G.A. Pro Am Weston Park Golf Club
The course at Weston Park looked in excellent condition, but the challenge for the players was the hard bounce, and it looked as if any one got near to par then they could pick up the winners prize. As it was, Mark Spooner’s (Bawburgh) 73 looked to be heading for the winner’s cheques, but at the end of the field Caroline Grady (Dunston Hall) came in with a level par 72. The team competition was also a very tight affair, with only two points between the three leading teams and Caroline came close to making it a remarkable double, but was pipped by her fellow Dunston Professional, Sam Cubitt, with Alex Beckett (Barnham Broom) coming in third. Nearest Pin was Simon Garrod. Longest drive was Neil Featherstone.
Team. 1st 136 Sam Cubitt with Andy Horne, Scott Seally & Nigel Kimber. 137 Caroline Grady with Graham Baker, Neil Featherstone & John Gaskin. 138 Alex Beckett with Peter Whitbread, Spencer Thorpe & Mark Flawn.
Professionals. 1st 72 Caroline Grady. 73 Mark Spooner & Lee Patterson (Royal Cromer). 74 Sam Cubitt. 75 Mark Allen (Eaton).
PGA Norfolk v Norfolk Ladies 1st Team
For the first time in over a dozen years, a match between the professional golfers and Norfolk ladies took place at Weston Park. Ladies team captain, Tracey Williamson, saw it as an opportunity to give
www.club-noticeboard.co.uk
COMMITTEE MEMBERS Chairman: Mike Jubb; Norfolk PGA Representative: Michael Few; Captain: Ryan Pudney; Vice Captain: Neil Lythgoe; Committee: Alan Hemsley, Lee Patterson
her team some practice before next week’s inter counties competition in Essex, and PGA Norfolk were keen to support the ladies in their build up to the inter-counties. This competition had been a regular fixture and with the fun and success of this year’s event the PGA secretary, John Paling, has already pencilled in a date for the match to be played next year. The ladies won the match by 21/2 to 11/2 points playing to a 4BBB format with the scores being: Amelia Williamson & Tiffany Mills beating Tony Varney & Ryan Pudney 2 & 1. Karen Young & Jo Herd lost to Michael Few & Adam Lewarne 3 & 2. Shelley Pleasance & Jasmine Campbell beat Tim Lond-Caulke & Michael Skipper 6 & 5. Amy Taylor & Ellie Brown halved with Gary Potter & Caroline Grady.
P.G.A. Norfolk Order of Merit 2015 (After 6 Events) Professional Golf Club Points Ian Ellis
Great Yarmouth & Caister
41
Mark Spooner
Bawburgh
28
Mark Allen
Eaton
22
Lee Patterson
Royal Cromer
14
Tom Clements Will Cross
Eaton
Thetford
26
14
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NORFOLK CHAMPION AT 83!
John Plane is a member and resident of Caldecott Hall Golf Club and was previously a member at Gt Yarmouth & Caister for 50 years! He is well know and well respected by all his fellow players. John recently played in The Lawrence Batley over 80's Golf Tournament, at Leatherhead Golf Course in Surrey, and won with 39 points with his current handicap of 17. This is the second time he has won the tournament, winning on his first entry, at age 80!
It is an annual event held at three different venues, when all golfers over 80 can show the rest, of a lesser age, the determination and stamina it takes to be a winner, particularly as some have difficulty in walking, getting round the course but still coming in with a very respectable score.
Congratulations go to John on this momentous achievement, and he thanks all those that have supported him, and those who travelled the distance.
NEWS FROM THETFORD
Below: The winning team of Tony Noakes, John Sampson, Bob Powley and Bill Sawings show off their prizes on either side of Thetford Captain Andy Dunn.
Andy Dunn's Captain's Charity Day at Thetford GC raised more than ÂŁ5,200 on the day, when it was played in glorious sunshine. There were prizes on every hole as well as an overall competition for the best two out of three scores. This was won by a team led by Bill Sawings from Maylands GC along with Tony Noakes, John Sampson and Bob Powley with a total of 90 points. They had seven birdies between them and came in with a better ball score of five under par. Runners-up, on 85 points, was the Rookery Park quartet of Andrew Coleman, Bob Taylor, Mick Varley and Dwain Barber and third place went to Daniel Abrahams, Victor Abrahams, John Moore and Michael Hunter from Hainault with 83. The nearest the pin prizes went to Dave Norman (1st), Corrine Everett (3rd), Bill Sawings (11th) and Victor Abrahams (16th). A separate competition trying out a new hybrid club at the 16th for ladies and men was won by Debbi Jary and Tim Sims. Other prize-winners were: 2nd hole Kevin Hawkins; 4th Peter Bangay; 5th John Sampson; 6th Sue Pitcher's team; 7th Peter Bugg; 8th Corrine Everett; 9th Ged Davey; 10th Jonathan Reynolds; 12th Peter Ogden; 13th Raymond Stonnell's team; 14th Sue Pitcher; 15th Mervyn Brain; 17th Steve Palmer; 18th John Ward. Thetford GC vice-captain Alan Brown won the Seniors Medal Championship with a fine score of 81-13-68. He won on countback from David Horsburgh, who returned 79-11-68. Other scores: John Chapman 91-20-71, Peter Spencer 83-12-71, Frank Benn 92-21-71, Harold Ham 84-13-71, Brian Chadwick 83-11-72, Phil Halford 85-13-72, Jim Neal 93-21-72, Frank Dowling 88-15-73, Trevor Wignall 83-10-73, Robert Fletcher 83-10-73, David Edgar 93-20-73, Mike McBride 91-18-73, Chris Crimmen 94-21-73, John Balster 8613-73. The Carter Rose Bowls are awarded to the winners of a mixed greensomes Stableford, and this year Geoff and Dawn Dixon won with a score of 36 points on countback from Steve Cobb and Carolyn Beaumont. Sheena and Robert Setchell were third with 34, one ahead of Phil Beer and Kath Malvern. Ladies' March Stableford, Division One: Margo Horsburgh 38pts, Jan Bone 37, Heather Keeble 35. Division Two: Sandra Lester 37, Mary Neal 36, Judy Zannini 33. Division Three: Julia Leeson 37, Jean Howe 33, Val Cunningham 31.
Weston Park Ladies- Last Norfolk Club Standing in the Mail on Sunday Competition
Back Row: Jane Gurney-Read, Alison Gillings, Becky Eagling, Sharon Spooner, Evelyn Edwards, All England Schools Champion Amelia Williamson, Gina Marsh, Sara Bland Front Row: Linda Key, Jane Sheppard, Team Captain Linda Sheppard, Jenny Sheppard, Liz Dann Not pictured: Sue Hosking and June Deans were also members of the Squad
Following a trail of victories in other competitions and their recent home win against Felixstowe Ferry, the Weston Park Ladies remain the only Norfolk team left in the renowned Mail on Sunday competition.
As a club in what could be its final year, making it through to the 7th round of the Mail on Sunday Golf Classic is a phenomenal achievement for the Ladies of Weston Park. Egged on by a huge amount of support they have battled their way through to be the last remaining East Anglian Club in this competition which sees in excess of 3,000 clubs enter every year! Following the draw on 13th July, they now face Spalding Golf Club Away.
Now only 3 rounds away from the semi-finals in El Rompido in Spain, we couldn’t be more proud and what a fantastic show of club comeradery in such uncertain times! Going out with a bang is what we are all aspiring to do this year!
Norfolk youngsters win National School Team title
Three Norfolk youngsters broke a deadlock at the top of the leaderboard to win the English schools’ team championship on the Bracken course at Woodhall Spa. Thorpe St Andrews School in Norwich, represented by Lewis Unstead (Sprowston Manor), Hope Neild (Royal Norwich) and Toby Briggs (Dunston Hall), scored 76 points, with their best two cards counting. Their total, returned towards the end of a dreary day when heavy showers drenched the later starters, shot them past a four-way tie at the top of the leaderboard on 72 points. “We’re elated,” said Briggs, 15, an England U16 Hope Neild, Toby international, Briggs and Lewis Unstead with the who plays off trophy (Image © plus-two. “This Leaderboard Photography) is the first national event Hope and I have played in and it was brilliant,” said Unstead. Neild added: “It was great.”
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Norfolk Seniors by Bernie Peet
Norfolk Seniors playing season is now in full swing again after the winter break, starting with a pre season squad get together at Gt. Yarmouth & Caister which was well attended by both old and new faces. The day was won by Tony Lount (Sheringham) with 37 pts with Steven Greatrix from the host club coming 2nd with 35 pts, well played Tony, it just goes to show that some of the older players still have something to offer for the season ahead.
This was followed by the traditional match against the Ladies team, again at Gt Yarmouth & Caister. Team: Doug Gilchrist (Weston Park), Tony Lount (Sheringham), Terry Norman – capt., Ian Sperrin (Gt Yarmouth & Caister), Alan Hewison (Richmond Park), Ian Hogg (Royal Cromer), Barry Clarke (Barnham Broom) and Bernie Vaughan (Costessey Park). This is always a difficult match and so it proved with the ladies winning 3 matches to 1 with the only win coming from Clarke / Vaughan. We wish the ladies all the best for the season ahead. Next was the first County game, a friendly against
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QUEBEC ROAD, DEREHAM, NORFOLK NR19 2DS
Bedfordshire at Thetford. Team: Doug Gilchrist, Simon Tilbrook (Weston Park), Michael Horley (Thetford), Chris Taylor (Eaton), Terry Norman – capt (Gt Yarmouth & Caister), Ian Hogg (Royal Cromer), Graham Turner, Paul Ellis (Mundesley), Barry Wortley (Caldecott Hall), Jim Laird, Malcolm Carr (Sheringham) and Barry Clarke (Barnham Broom). After the morning matches the teams were all square with 3 matches each, the afternoon 4 balls went the same way with 3 matches each so the overall match score was 6 all. Maximum wins came from the pairings of Norman / Hogg and Turner / Ellis. The next match was the first league match of the season, away at Diss against Suffolk, who Norfolk haven't beaten on their own soil for many years. Team: Richard Oaks, David Hudson (Hunstanton), Jim Laird ( Sheringham), Terry Norman – capt, Steve Greatrix, Paul Whiting, (Gt Yarmouth & Caister), Alan Hewison (Richmond Park), Ian Hogg, Bernie Peet (Royal Cromer) and Doug Gilchrist (Weston Park).
The morning foursomes went well for Norfolk with the top 3 matches all winning to give a 3-2 lead at lunch. The afternoon singles also went well with 51/2 pts being won so Norfolk won their first league outing of the season 81/2 to 61/2, a very good result against a strong Suffolk side. Team capt. Terry Norman used the words 'the first win against Suffolk, in Suffolk, in living memory' – whether this is correct I don't know but it was certainly the first win in Suffolk for a very long time!! It was a great start for the 2105 league campaign and there were maximum points for Whiting, Greatrix, Norman and Hudson. On a personal note I was saddened to hear that Keith Bass had passed away, a man I had worked with in Junior golf for many years and his enthusiasm for his various roles in Norfolk golf never ceased to amaze me. All the juniors that played for him respected him and they always knew where they stood with him, Keith always being very firm but fair with them all. Keith did so much for Norfolk golf and will be sadly missed.
ROSE BOWL
Middleton Hall Lady Captain, Brenda Boldero, presents Sandra Quince with the Rose Bowl trophy which she won with a splendid net 63. The Rose Bowl is a Medal competition which is open to all those ladies who have won a Medal or Stableford competition during the year.
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on any Wed till end of September
To book please contact Richard Tidy Golf Sales Manager I P.G.A Professional T: 01508 473897 E: rtidy@qhotels.co.uk
Dunston Hall Hotel & Golf Club Part Of The Q Hotel Group