Captain's Blog, 16th April 2024

Bush Hill Park

Captain's Blog, 16th April 2024

Spring is definitely in the air now and as we bid farewell to a long, wet winter, I would like to congratulate the winners of the two pairs knockout competitions that have now been concluded. Richard Kemish and Mark Kermode beat Sean Nugent and Brian McDermott in the final of the Greensomes Goblet and Guy Croton and Matt Bowen beat Andrew Harrington and Ben Lawrence in the Edgar Collar Cup.

Last week, our Rabbits team kicked off their new season with a home fixture against Crews Hill. I’m very pleased to report that we had a resounding win of 5 ½ to ½ . Well done to our Captain of the day, Eamonn McDonough and to all of those who played.

On Saturday, we held the second week of qualifying for the Rafferty Cup in what can only be described as testing conditions once again. Ian Luke and Kyley Bland both carded a net 73 apiece, being the best scores in Division 1 and 2 respectively. We now have 32 qualifiers from the past two weeks and the draw for the knockout stages has now been made.

On Sunday, eighteen couples competed for the Spring Trophy with some outstanding scores being posted. Eventual winners, with an outstanding 44 points, were Margaret Herlihy and Eamonn McDonough with Paul Robertson and Una Kilgallon coming in second with a very creditable 39points. Unfortunately, due to coming down with the dreaded lurgy, I was unable to attend the meal and presentation, although I’m sure everyone was well looked after and enjoyed the occasion. Thanks go out as usual to Mark Stevens and Janet Connor for organising the event.

This coming Sunday, our First Team are hosting Highgate GC in their Rowse Trophy match. Please come and support the boys throughout the day if you able to - it can make all the difference. Unfortunately, due to a clash of fixtures that was completely out of our control, I will not be able cheer the team on as I am heading to Woodhall Spa to take part in Danny’s Captain vs Pro Ryder Cup. We have 24 members taking part in the two-day event and I am looking forward to reporting back on the outcome next week.

Finally, just to remind everyone that our Women’s Captain, Lucy Bidmead is organising a second-hand golf sale, which is taking place this Saturday 20th April from 11am in the Clubhouse foyer. If you have any donations, excluding clubs, please contact Lucy. It will be a cash only sale and all proceeds will go to the Captain’s charity, Isabel Hospice.

Have a good week.

Jon Copley
Club Captain