Captain′s Corner
Gentlemen. Firstly, I would like to record how much I appreciated the honour of being elected Captain for 2024 at our Spring Meeting.
I have been a member for nearly 14 years, and as Captain, I am trying to ensure that other members enjoy their time with the Association, as much as I have so far. We may be a relatively small group compared to some of the other counties, but in some ways that works to our advantage. I think we are a more tightly-knit group than others, with a greater familiarity with each other. New members are always welcome, but it is also great to meet up with friends we have made through the matches and meetings over the years.
Results so far this year have been really encouraging. We lost to Bedfordshire on holes won/lost by 8 holes. Thereafter, though, we have remained unbeaten with wins versus Hertfordshire, London and Surrey, and draws against Northants and Hampshire. All these matches have been played in good spirit, with good company, some fine golf, and enjoyable refreshments – both meals and the liquid variety!
The winner of our Spring Meeting was a new member from Harleyford, Lee Dawson, winning on his maiden appearance with the Association. John Pettitt, another Harleyford Member won the match with the Ladies, alongside his partner, Carol Cottrell, from Wexham Park.
The shortened Captain’s Tour was held at Old Thorns, a very tricky course, made more difficult by the slow play of other visiting parties on the first day, and by Old Thorns seniors having their Club championship immediately in front of us on the second day. Despite the slow play, everybody seemed to enjoy the trip. Congratulations to John Newell, who pipped Roger Warren to the Miners Lamp Captains Day was won by Trevor Murphy from Lambourne with a magnificent 41 points, winning by 2 points from Tony Jeffries. 46 players took part in the golf, and 51 attended the dinner where we were treated to an excellent after-dinner speech from Greg Searle. I should mention that only 2 people beat your Captain and the Pro, (mainly the Pro!), in our Captain/Pro challenge on the 12th, so congratulations to Brian Rodgers and Mark Mugglestone.
There is still much golf to be played this season. I hope to see as many of you as possible participating in our fixtures, and at the Autumn meeting. This is to be played on October 10th at Gerrards Cross, one of the finest clubs in Buckinghamshire. Please make every effort to be there, as I am sure it will be a fun occasion.
Colin