LAS VEGAS FORMAT SEPTEMBER 12TH 2024. Report via Mike Healey

0 Seniors - It was always a bit of a "gamble" playing the "Las Vegas" format on a day that was forecast for heavy rain. Just over a dozen members turned up, four got as far as pulling out trolleys - two of whom, donned full weather gear with the intention of going out and headed off to the first tee. I believe one of Shakespeare's expressions was "Discretion is the better part of valor!" and that certainly applied this morning. The two stalwarts re-appeared rather sharpish, as the heavens opened further and conditions worsened. The rest of the Seniors stood around debating weather forecasts at length and the general concensus was that the rain was not going to abate much before late morning hence the Las Vegas was abruptly cancelled. 3 or 4 remained behind for machine coffee, but the car park cleared by 9.30am. From my point of view, it was opportune to catch the two Ryder Cup Captains and go through the selection process with them. I can now announce that Wales will be led by Barry Evans and Peter Taylor will take charge of RotW. They sat down separately and selected their pairings and I have subsequently completed a draw, which will be announced on the day. There will be a draw sheet posted with names, times, tees and shot allowance based on today's handicap index. We are playing 90% of Course Handicap. Should your handicap index change before Tuesday, you must adjust your shots accordingly (if needed). Next Tuesday, with hindsight, would it be too much trouble to arrive slightly earlier than suggested in the last communication. If we can be ready for a photograph at 8.30am, announce the teams and start moving to tees about 8.40am. The Captains will lead the way but the rest of us need to be right behind them at 8.50am for our starts. We have 5 groups off the 1st, 4 off the 16th and 4 off the 14th - with 52 playing (great commitment) we need to be on the ball getting to tees. No doubt you will all look resplendent in your reds and blues and should there be echoes of "Sosban Fach" , "Ilkley Moor baht at" and other jingoistic callings drifting across the fairways, it will all add to the occasion. I thank you all for signing up and look forward to our annual battle of the nations. See you all on Tuesday. Mike