Site to be used to post Clays Seniors section news about Seniors kitty Competitions and news of interest to the Seniors section at Clays Golf Club, near Wrexham. If any member wishes for news to be posted and or photos please contact Derek at dglyon9@aol.com
24 September, 2022
Mile End Seniors Open results via Mike Healey September 21st 2022
Mike Healey reports on the results from the Mile End Senior Open held on Wednesday this week. We don't always report the Opens except for the times when Clay's members produce a winning score - read on for some incredible returns. It was almost a clean sweep!!
First: Mike Hollings & Stewart Poole 48 Points (Clays)
Second: Chris Andrews & Graham Wood 46 Points
Third: Stephen Porter & Tom Price 45 Points (Back 3)
Fourth: George Hughes & Feter Fraser 45 Points (Back 9) (Clays)
Fifth: Ernie Williams & Andrew Mitchell 45 Points (Back 9) (Clays)
LONGEST DRIVE (10th Hole) Andrew Mitchell (Clays)
NEAREST THE PIN (3rd Hole) Les Williams (4.10m) (Clays)
NEAREST THE PIN (17th Hole) Richard Collier (2.81m) (Clays)
NEAREST THE PIN IN TWO SHOTS (18th HOLE) Steve Porter (58cm )
BALL SWEEP - 2'S Bill Kelleher 7th Hole (Clays) Paul Jeffs 17th Hole (Clays)
22 September, 2022
Mold match away result September 22nd 2022.Report via Malcolm Williams
Unfortunately, our 15 match unbeaten run came to an end today at Mold! We started playing in bright sunshine but about 1.00pm the rains arrived and as you can imagine on the hills of Mold it was heavy and unpleasant. £ of the groups finished early with an agreed result, whereas 3 other groups battled to the bitter end! ( In 2 of those matches we lost on the last hole!). The welcome, food and course were excellent so despite the weather, a good time was enjoyed by all.
Individual Stableford September 22nd 2022. Report via Mike Healey
- This communication is starting with a reminder about next week's competitions. Tuesday is down as a stableford qualifier but the course today was too short for it to be a qualifier. Panic not - Mark was protecting the tees in preparation for the DGU competition on Sunday and he is leaving the course at qualifyinfg length for the Seniors next Tuesday. Thursday will be 3 clubs and a putter as advertised.
Today's Report - Malcolm Williams took the senior, unbeaten team for a match with Mold GC today (match result to follow), leaving numbers thin on the ground back at Clays. 13 members went into the tally draw and because of the odd number, we played a straightforward individual stableford. The forecast was rain around 2.00pm and thankfully the BBC got it right. We began slightly earlier than usual and all players were back in the clubhouse for coffee and presentations before the rain started. There were three prizes in total with 2 members just missing out on countback:
Individual Stableford:
First: Mike Healey (46 points)
Second: Irwin Elkin (40 points)
Third: Ian Ketland (35 points c/b)
Peter Taylor (35 points c/b) Andy Mitchell (35 points c/b)
20 September, 2022
Wales vs Rest of the world September 20th 2022. Report via Mike Healey
Given Clays' proximity to the English border, it was decided to advertise a Senior Wales v England competition towards the end of our Summer season trophies. Problem - there is quite an eclectic mix of nations amongst the membership, so we decided on Wales v Rest of the World for our "Not Quite the Ryder Cup" event held this morning. Nigel Davies (Wales) and Dave Palferman (RotW) volunteered to stand as team captains and did a splendid job, not only with pairs selection, but even better in not revealing selection until the day. Club Captain, Don Wraight somehow managed to inveigle an unused trophy and with a couple of accoutriments added to the front, produced our very own "Ryder Cup" for the presentation.
48 members, resplendent in their reds and blues, arrived before the set time for team photographs and pairs announcements. The banter was free flowing and there was an enthusiastic buzz before the first ball was struck. Multiple tees allowed all to get away reasonably spaced and from time to time, both jingoistic calls and singing were heard across the fairways. The competition was intense and then the results started to come in. The team captains oversaw the pairs results coming back into the clubhouse and Senior Captain, Chris Jacques gathered the troops together for the overall presentation.
There are too many individual winners to name, but the final result ended in Wales (5 matches won), two matches halved and RotW (5 matches won). It couldn't have ended any better. There were minor prizes purchased for the winning side and because of the result, these were presented to every winning pair. Everybody agreed that the event created a buzz, there was a lot of enjoyment and it will most definitely appear on the calendar for 2023. There are photos to be added to this report and thank you to everyone who participated.
19 September, 2022
Captains Newsletter September 2022
Captains Newsletter
September 2022
It saddens me greatly to have to start this September newsletter with the sad loss of our Queen. A truly great woman, who took on the duties of a Monarch at such a young age, and carried these on with an outstanding dedication to not only our country but the Commonwealth, Bless you Ma’am.
At the club September saw the finals day go ahead in nice weather and a fantastic course, which is getting better all the time.
Congratulations to all the finalists for getting to that day and further congratulations to the winners. Commiserations to the losers who put up a good fight I’m sure. The atmosphere in the clubhouse afterwards was amazing to see and hear, to see so many members enjoying themselves were a sight to see. Long many it continue.
A reminder that Presentation Day is on the 15th October and all the winners and runners-up will be expected to attend to receive their prizes and trophies, which unfortunately will not be permitted to leave the clubhouse.
This will follow a Texas Scramble and should be around the 3pm time. Entry for the scramble is on the noticeboard at the bottom of the stairs.
The Ladies Section are an inspiration to the club, I have never known this section prosper so much.
They have finished top of their league in the Challenge Shield and therefore get promoted next year. Jakki Moxon and Jane Evans have made it to the finals weekend of the Daily Mail, we wish them well. Angela Thomas-Williams is continuing her good form by winning both the Welsh Dragon Brooch and the President’s Day ladies prize. Let’s hope she can continue to do well when she accompanies the rest of the Ping mixed team comprising of Jane Evans, Beverley Hood, Dave Palferman, Nigel Davies and myself at Llanishen Golf club, Cardiff in a few days time.
Mike Drake and Steve Monk will also be representing Clays in the Seniors Greensomes a couple of days earlier. Good luck to both and let’s hope they can follow last year’s winners and keep the trophy at Clays.
Clays are proud to present the DGU Autumn Meeting on the 25th September where there will be a large representation from the various Union clubs.
I hope as many from the club support and Mark assures me that the Greens Staff will be pulling out all stops to present the course in a fantastic condition.
With this in mind can I PLEASE ask that should you visit a bunker would you PLEASE rake it after. Even if you walk pass and see that there are footprints, take a few seconds to rake which not only helps players behind but also the staff.
Happy golfing
Don
15 September, 2022
Multiplier results September 15th 2022 via Mike Healey
31 members came out of the tally draw this morning, so the Multiplier was split into Four- and Threeballs. We have moved into autumn quickly so the ball didn't carry quite as far this morning and putting was not quite so fast after the recent rain. The weather was warm enough but a couple of very light showers just put a dampener on affairs. There was one prize for fourballs (two reported because of countback) and two prizes for the Threeballs:
Multiplier Result - Fourball
First: Reg Peacock, Ian Ketland, Brian Beaton, Irwin Elkin 121 points (c/b)
Second: Mike Holings, Bill Kelleher, Peter Fraser, Colin Evans 121 points (c/b)
Multiplier Result - Threeball
First: Peter Taylor, Chris Jacques, Alan Bottomley 120 points
Second: Les Williams, Mick Carnell, Mike Griffiths 108 points
14 September, 2022
Clays Seniors match vs Hawarden September 12th 2022. Report from Malcolm Williams
We continued our winning streak which dates back to July 2019!! We have now won 15 matches in succession. Of course Covid interrupted much of this time but it’s still a phenominal feat! Well done to all involved. We won 5and a half to 2and a half today against Hawarden at home. It was a very enjoyable morning with great company , the course in very good condition and an excellent meal from Hayley once again.
Our final match of the season is away against Mold a week on Thursday, 22nd. Malcolm Williams
13 September, 2022
Individual Kitty Competition results September 13th 2022 Via Mike Healey
Quite a few members were involved in the match versus Hawarden at home today. That result and match report will follow via Malcolm Williams. Meanwhile 8 others decided to book early tees and in benign conditions they organised themselves for an individual stableford kitty competition with the following result:
Individual Stableford:
First: Bob Brown 41 points. Bob informed Derek that in his last 3 rounds he was 6 under par. Today he was 5 under
Second: Graham Bryne 34 points
Finals results of Honours Board Competitions
The finals of the Honours Board Competitions
The results are as follows…
Scratch Cup - Josh Green beat Paul Lloyd
Challenge Cup - Tom Pierce beat Mike Jones
JCB Shield - Gareth Roberts beat Damien Atkin
Senior Matchplay – Alan Barnsdale beat Mick Carnell
Abershield – Barry Dare beat Alan Pocklington
Aber Rose Bowl – Marian Williams beat Jakki Moxon
Gem Trophy – Justin Bull & Andi Jones were crowned winners!
Mixed Foursomes - Jakki Moxon & Richard Collier beat Sue Falcus & Iwan Bonds
Flick Cup – Anthony Mcallister & Phil Jones beat Kevin Wyn Jones & Dan Goodall
Ladies Betterball – Angela Thomas Williams & Jayne Gibson beat Jane Evans & Julie Hanmer Price
Senior Pairs – Richard Collier & Malcom Williams beat Les Williams & Peter Thomas
09 September, 2022
2 Day challenge results from Mike Healey
The Day 2 Day Challenge has now been completed andv the following results resolved:
Day 1 (Division 1):
1st: Alan Barnsdale 40pts (c/b)
2nd: David Jones 40pts (c/b)
3rd: Richard Collier 39pts
Day 1 (Division 2):
1st: Peter Fraser 37pts (c/b)
2nd: Bill Kelleher 37pts (c/b)
3rd: Colin Brown 34pts
Day 2 (Division 1):
1st: Ernie Williams 42pts
2nd Richard Collier 39pts
3rd Jon Falcus 35pts
Day 2 (Division 2):
1st: Stuart Leyland 38pts
2nd: Colin Brown 37pts
3rd: Tom Pierce 35pts
Once the scores had been totalled the following aggregate scores read as follows:
Division 1 Winner: Ernie Williams 78pts (c/b) Runner Up: Richard Collier 78pts (c/b)
Division 2 Winner: Colin Brown 71pts (c/b) Runner Up: Peter Fraser 71pts (c/b)
There was also a 9-hole result for this week:
1st: Irwin Elkin 19pts
2nd: Mike Parks 18pts
3rd Mike Kalka 12pts
05 September, 2022
Seniors Medal September 1st 2022
HowDidiDo Competition Results
Seniors Monthly Medal
01/09/2022
Division 1
Pos Name Result
1 David Jones 83 - 16 = 67
2 Jonathan Falcus 81 - 13 = 68
3 Chris Jacques 78 - 9 = 69
Division 2
Pos Name Result
1 Tom McGrady 90 - 24 = 66
2 Brian Beaton 92 - 25 = 67
3 Stuart Holloway Miles 93 - 24 = 69
Division 3
Pos Name Result
1 Liam Roddis 95 - 31 = 64
2 Colin Evans 100 - 34 = 66
3 Michael Drake 97 - 29 = 68
01 September, 2022
Match vs Holywell report via Malcolm Williams August 31st 2022
Our above match was, as usual at Holywell, played as an AmAm with 2 players from each Club in the teams. The winners were:- George Hughes and Stuart Leyland and their Partners with a score of 90. Runners up were Alan Barnsdale and Alan Bottomley and their partners on countback! A most enjoyable day for all involved!
Our final matches of the season are:- Hawarden (home) – Tuesday, 13th Sept. and Mold (away) – Thursday, 22nd Sept. Signing up sheets are on the Club Notice Board.
Recent seniors results via Mike Healey August 2022
In Mike's absence, there have been two results not reported - please find below:
Tuesday 16th August - Yellow Ball. While 32 members were contesting the Senior Open at Priors Hayes 16 seniors played out a Yellow Ball competition back at Clays. I would like to thank Don and Chris for organising the draw/resolving cards and Irwin for pinging on the result. Because of numbers, there was only one prize on the day.
Yellow Ball
First: Bob Brown, Chris Jacques, Alan Barnsdale, Mike Parks 198 points
Tuesday 30th August - Individual Stableford Qualifier
Again 16 seniors made their way over to Holywell Golf Club for an am/am match - please find result elsewhere. Back at base 21 seniors contested an individual Stableford Qualifier with the following leading results:
Stableford Qualifier
First: Gareth Thomas 43 points
Second: Peter Taylor 42 points
Third: Mike Kalka 39 points
Fourth: Royan Anthony 38 points
Fifth: Bob Brown 36 points
29 August, 2022
D J Bogie August 25th 2022
Winner Mr Captain Don Wraight with plus 8
Second Dave Fergus plus 3
Third Stewart Poole plus 3
Steve Monk also carded plus 3
28 August, 2022
Presidents Day 2022 via Gareth Roberts
Presidents day was well attended with a total of 64 players, enjoying great weather and some great golf, and some much needed refreshment with a free beer tent on the 5th provided curtisy of the President.
The day was made extra special for the President as he had a hole in ine on the 2nd ( 5 iron ) , that's his 2nd hole in one on the same hole in the last 6 months.
The course is in fantastic condition and thanks go to Mark and his team
There was 13 players getting a 2
The competition over all winner was Darren Edwards with 41 points .
best seniors prize went to Chris (trigger) Jones with 39 points
best ladies prize went to Angela Thomas-Williams winning on count back from Shirley Roberts both with 39 points
Nearest the pin on the 5th for the ladies was Shirley Roberts
Nearest the pin on the 12th for the men was Chris ( Trigger ) Jones
Nearest the line on 10th won by Tony Bull.
Thanks to the Members generous donations to Presidents chosen charity of prostate cancer which raised £100 on the day
27 August, 2022
Seniors Match result August 23rd 2022 via Malcolm Williams
Our latest Seniors’ match was against Northop at home on Tuesday, 23rd August. It was the first time we have entertained Northop so we were keen to develop the link. We continued our winning run with a 6 and a half to 1 and a half victory. All involved really enjoyed the day – the course was in excellent condition despite the recent hot, dry weather and Hayley was delighted to receive comments from Northop players that the food was the best they’d ever received on match days at any Club.
Our next fixture is scheduled against Holywell, away, on Tuesday 30th August.
23 August, 2022
Clays Seniors 2022 Open results
Here’s the results from our 2022 Senior Open…
🏆 1st Peter Thomas & Ray Griffiths 47pts
2nd Richard Collier & Ian Connell 45pts
3rd Michael JK Sanders & David Mason 43pts (Malkins Bank/Alsager)
beating Andy Mitchell & David Jones 43pts in countback
and Ernie Williams & Keith Hawthorn who also had 43pts
Nearest the pin 5th hole - Paul Fell
Nearest the line 10th hole - Mike Scott
Nearest the pin in two 18th hole - John Chapman (Chester)
19 August, 2022
Captains Newsletter August 2022
Captain's Newsletter: August 2022
July finished and August started in a grand way for Clays Golf Club.
In glorious sunshine the DGU team entertained Denbigh Golf Club in their final league match. Course was in stunning condition and praised by our opposition. The team won 5/3 securing the trophy as undefeated Champions, winning all 4 matches. Congratulations to all the team, not only in this match but over the season. Massive congratulations to Vice Captain Mick McHugh in leading the team to success.
The ladies beat Caernarfon G.C in their Challenge Shield match winning 3 & 1/2 to 1 & 1/2 a great away win, having won all their home matches, well done and keep it up.
Fred Court won the Men’s prize on Captains Day, Brian Beaton victorious in winning the Senior prize and Jacqueline Moxon winning the Ladies.
We still have a team competing in the Wales Golf mixed Ping competition and are due to play against Creigiau G.C at Builth Wells in the regional finals, victory here will be followed by semis and finals in Cardiff, good luck team!
Our Seniors are still undefeated in their home and away matches this time beating Hawarden in a very close game. Their next match is a home game with Northop the visitors. This is the first visit from Northop so we hope they enjoy our course and wish them well.
Former President, Captain and organiser of the Past Captains Bob Brown has retired from those duties. He was presented with gifts by Russ Adamson. Nigel Davies has agreed to be our Past Captains representative in the future.
Presidents day is on the 27th August which will be a shotgun start, sign-up sheet is on the noticeboard at the bottom of the stairs. Please support as you did with Captains’ Charity Day. Held in glorious sunshine, I think we all managed to get round without getting too hot.
Peter & Nicky Bowen, Gill Williams and Debbie Scott taking the 1st prize with Angela Thomas-Williams, Jayne Gibson, Mike D Jones and Maria, 2nd spot on countback.
Big thanks for all those who donated raffle prizes which boosted the takings to just over £1,000 and to the sponsors on various holes.
The course has been hit like everywhere with the extreme heat and very little if any rain. I would like you all to appreciate Mark and his team in the massive effort in keeping the course in great condition. Keep supporting them and raking those bunkers and repairing those pitch marks.
I hope you all have continued good golf and last of all thanks from my new wife Lesley-Ann for your good wishes.
Don Wraight
Captain
12 August, 2022
Seniors golf reports from Mike Healey August 11th 2022. Including photo of Don Wraight's wedding
There are 3 bits of news this week. The first piece of good news involves our illustrious Club Captain and Senior member Don getting married today, to his long time partner Lesley-Ann. Please find photo attached. We all convey our very best wishes to them both.
Secondly I am pleased to announce that Bob Brown was the winner of the Senior/Vets Trophy on Tuesday with a magnificent score of nett 63. Colin Evans was runner-up with nett 65 and Senior Captain, Chris Jacques and Barry Evans were 3rd and 4th respectively with scores of nett 66. As always the course was true and hot weather helped the bounce.
Today - 33 members braved the searing heat to enter the tally draw for a Bonus Ball and there were a few tired legs at the end. Threeballs contested the event and it was calculated that 144 points would be close to the mark - not far wrong. There were 3 prizes on offer but beforehand, the Senior Captain, Chris Jacques presented medal prizes for the previous two months. Todays Result -
Bonus Ball Threeballs:
First: Peter Taylor, Colin Evans, Bob Jarvis 152 points
Second: Mick Carnell, Barry Evans, Mike Drake 143 points
Third: Mike Healey, Stu Leyland, Chris Jacques 141 points
There was also a ballsweep and Andy Mitchell ran away with all the money having shot the only two on the 12th hole. Well done all and a final reminder about the Senior Open on Thursday next week. If you wish to enter - please register with reception.
DGUPC report via Russ Adamson August 2022. Includes presention to Bob Brown
I am very proud to be elected as Captain of the DGUPC this year
With numbers dropping at events pre covid it has been pleasing to see 30 plus PC’s from across the county attending our competitions and full teams for our matches.
So far Clays PC’s have won All events.
The season started at Abergele with Tony Harcombe and myself retaining the pairs better ball event withe 46 pts.
Reg Peacock won my Captains day that took place at Clays and Chris Jones(Trig)
won the singles event at Wrexham .
The County Team have played 3 matches against Flintshire,Chester Golf Clubs and Shropshire & Herefordshire winning all 3.
We still have events to play at
Ruthin/ Pwllglas,Plassey,Denbigh,Old Colwyn and a final bash at Clays.
The Clays PC’s made a collection and I was honoured to make a presentation to Bob Brown who has stepped down as the club county PC rep after many years of tireless work and organisation for our Clubs PC’s.
I wish to add that this is in addition to all the time and effort Bod has unconditionally given to Clays over many years.
Without the individual club reps the society would struggle to work and I am pleased Nigel Davies has taken over the role and I wish him well following Bobs service..
05 August, 2022
August 2022 medal
August Medal
Div 1
1 David Palferman 82-15=67
2 Don Wraight 87-16=71
3 Alan Bottomley 88-17=71
Div 2
1 William Kelleher 91-22=69
2 Keith Hawthorn 92-22=70
3 Graham Bryne 95-24=71
Div 3
1 Leslie Williams 101-34=67
2 Peter Fraser 97-29=68
3 Michael Drake 100-30=70
Some Seniors News and Information from Mike Healey August 5th 2022
The August calendar has just been circulated and it is indeed a month of board competitions, inter-club matches and Senior Opens. There are a lot of sign-up sheets on the noticeboard, so please read and do sign up.
The purpose of this communication is advance notice of the Two-Day Challenge, taking place on the 6th and 8th September (sign-up sheet already on noticeboard) and a new proposal deemed the “Not Quite the Ryder Cup” event. This has been ear-marked for Tuesday 20th September and it will be a great way to close the season.
On the day we are setting up a national challenge between Wales and the Rest of the World. It will require a sign-up sheet for both sides (if we fail to match numbers then a couple of seniors may be asked to swap teams). The Welsh team will be asked to wear red and ROTW – blue. The team Captains have been identified as Nigel Davies (Wales) and Dave Palferman (ROTW). They are both tasked with organising pairs for a one-day match-play competition. The scores will be collated and the winning team announced. There will be a Trophy and an inexpensive prize for each member of the winning side. If all goes well and the event proves popular, we will consider a two-day event (including singles) next year.
The September Calendar is already published and will be slotted under the August sheet on the noticeboard. It will also be sent out individually at the beginning of September. The Not Quite the Ryder Cup sign-up sheet will appear mid-August. Senior Committee
02 August, 2022
Texas scramble July 28th 2022 and Pairs betterball August 2nd 2022. Results from Mike Healey
Thanks to Peter Bowen, Tom McGrady and Andy Mitchell for resolving cards last week. I now have the updated results for last Thursday's Texas Scramble. 41 seniors played and there were 7 x threeballs and 5 x fourballs with 2 prizes in each section.
Texas Scramble Threeball Result:
First: Mike Hollings, Ernie Williams, Russ Adamson (52.7)
Second: Tony Harcombe, Alan Barnsdale, Barry Evans (55.5)
Texas Scramble Fourball Result:
First: Stewart Poole, Tony Jackson, Mike Parks, Damian Atkin (50.1)
Second: Graham Wright, Reg Peacock, Peter Taylor, Peter Fraser (52.5)
Tuesday 2nd August - Only 23 members entered the tally draw this morning for Pairs Betterball. There might have been a few with a weather eye on the forecast. It was pretty accurate with scattered showers through to 10.30am, some of them quite heavy but we survived. There was a bit of fine tining on the greens, which are still in excellent condition and the course also played well, albeit a tad slower after the overnight rain. There were three prizes on offer overall and it was tight for third prize with two cards on 39 points and three on 40 points:
Pairs Betterball Result:
First: Barry Evans and Dave Palferman 44 points
Second: Dave Jones and Bob Brown 42 points
Third: Russ Adamson and Nigel Davies 40 points (c/b)
All participating members entered the ball sweep and there were three x twos:
Andy Mitchell (2nd) Dave Palferman (5th and 12th)
26 July, 2022
Waltz competition result July 26th 2002 from Mike Healey and Hawarden match result from Malcolm Williams
Another busy day in the senior calendar. Malcolm Williams took a team of sixteen players over to Harwarden for a senior match – report to follow from that one and other groups were out mopping up various rounds of club competitions. I am otherwise engaged currently and would like to extend my thanks to Peter Bowen and Tom McGrady for overseeing today’s competition, organising the tally draw, resolving cards and issuing prizes at the end of the golf.
The weather was cooler but still warm and a little gusty. 26 members threw their hat in the ring and there were two competitions for a Waltz. Five fourballs (2 prizes) and two threeballs (1 prize) took part with the following result:
Fourball Waltz Result:
First: Peter Taylor, Liam Roddis, Pauline Peacock, Fred Court 98 points
Second: Jon Falcus, Reg Peacock, Tony Jackson, Alan Pocklington 87 points
Threeball Waltz Result:
First: Mike Hollings, Peter Fraser, Bob Brown 76 points
Hawarden match report from Malcolm
We maintained our winning run in matches with a very close encounter at Hawarden.. The final result was only determined when the last game came in – all square! We won 4 and a half to 3 and a half. Once again, we received a very warm welcome from our hosts , the course was in excellent condition and we enjoyed a tasty 2 course meal afterwards.
22 July, 2022
Blog 10/7/2022. Nearest Point of relief. Golf rules and/or a local rule may allow a player to take relief from a condition on the course such as fixed objects and pathways. Consider only the “objective item” for which you may take relief, any other condition or object do not enter into the establishment of “Nearest Point of Relief”.
I.e. if the nearest point of relief is in a hedge, the hedge will not change the identity/location for the nearest point of relief and further consideration involving penalty drop for an unplayable ball may be required.
By definition nearest point of relief:- is the nearest position, not nearer to the hole in play, from its present position, the ball is required to be, that would remove the “objective item” from interfering with a players ball, stance or swing area.
In the sketch, I have shown alternative positions to determine the nearest point of relief for a ball on the path at point “D”.
For a right handed player, the option for Point “A” is always adjacent to the path no nearer the hole. To establish options on the other side of the path, take your stance next to the path with the club you would normally expect to use for your next shot, giving you a position between “B” and “C” depending on your club selection.
Whichever of the three positions is closest to the ball position “D” is your nearest point of relief.
Taking the same club, establish your relief area from point “A”,”B” or “C” as the appropriate nearest point of relief, measure one club-length and peg this point. Your relief area is a D shape area, one club radius from this point. The ball must be dropped, land and come to rest within this relief area.
21 July, 2022
9X3 and 9x2 result via Mike Healey July 21st 2022
Seniors - I am sure that a number of you will have been disappointed in the cancellation of the Two Day Challenge this week. As explained via e-mail, it was all done for the right reasons and because of the extreme weather conditions. It has already been moved to September, the sign up sheet has been placed on the noticeboard and all will receive details nearer the time. Twelve "brave or otherwise" members signed up on Tuesday and played in the early morning heat but only friendlies were played, so there are no competitions as such to report,
Today we had the unusual situation of having 44 tallies on the board but only 43 names on the cards at the end. With a bit of ghost scoring we managed to complete 11 cards for today's competition "9 x 3" plus "9 x 2". The temperature had dropped considerably from Tuesday and with a slight breeze, conditions were great to play in. There were three team prizes in total with countback required for the last prize:
"9 x 3" plus "9 x 2" Result:
First: Les Williams, Peter Fraser, Reg Peacock, Steve Monk 115 points
Second: Jane Evans, Gareth Thomas, Andy Mitchell, Keith Hawthorn 112 points
Third: Alan Bottomley, Ian Ketland, Mike Drake, Peter Taylor 111 points (c/b)
Reminder for diaries - We have always supported charity days in the past and donations are required for this year's event - Captain's Charity Day - Saturday 13th August. It would be good if we could support Don in anyway possible - raffle prizes, etc or even better, put your name down to play on the day.
20 July, 2022
Yellow ball July 12th 2022 and Stableford qualifier July 14th 2022
Yellowball: Tuesday July 12th 2022
First: Colin Evans, Mike Scott, Alan Pocklington, Jon Falcus 186 points
Second: Dave Jones, Graham Bryne, Peter Thomas, Mick Carnell 181 points
Stableford Qualifier Thursday 14th July 2022
1 Alan Pocklington 46 pts
2 Damian Atkin 40 pts
3 Barry Evans
15 July, 2022
Captains Newsletter July 2022 via Don Wraight.....Captain
Captains Newsletter: July 2022
Published on 13th July 2022
July sees the golfing season really under way and the course in fantastic conditions as is the golf that you all are playing I hope you are all enjoying.
The DGU team after a narrow victory at Wrexham continued in great form by beating the Moss 7 / 1 and last weekend topping that victory by going to Old Colwyn and winning 5 ½ 2 ½. Anyone that has played Old Colwyn will know just how tough the course is and what a great victory it was. Team has now played 3 and won 3 with Denbigh visiting us on the 7th August our last league match. Good luck to the team and well done once more vice-captain Mick McHugh. Unfortunately at this moment we have no league table to see how the positions are but it looks pretty rosy.
Ladies section is prospering with a draw at North Wales followed by wins at home against Llangollen and North Wales in the Challenge Shield. They are still active in the Daily Mail and Purves knockouts, great achievements.
Former Lady Captain Angela Thompson-Williams will be doing a 72 hole marathon in aid of the Wales Air Ambulance in August, we wish her well and I hope you will all help in her sponsorship.
Seniors have a match against Northop away on the 14th July a new venture and fixture, we wish they well and hope for a good result.
The Ping mixed team had a great victory at Porthmadog golf club against Maesdu in horrendous conditions, all down to a winning putt on the last hole by Nigel Davies who kept his nerve in pouring rain and high winds. Next opponents are Abergele at Mold golf club in a couple of week, good luck at hopefully better conditions.
Finally Captains Day was held last week in lovely sunshine and a nice breeze to keep everyone comfortable.
Mark and his team presented the course in fabulous condition, I don’t recall it looking better, thanks lads oh and Molly.
83 players entered the competition which was a shotgun start, played at a nice pace.
Scoring was very close with former Club Captain and Vice President Fred Court taking the men’s trophy with a great 41 pts pipping Nick Buley into second place on 39 pts.
Lady’s trophy was won by Jacqueline Moxon with 39pts and Sue Falcus on 36pts.
The Senior’s prize was won by Brian Beaton a good 39pts from runner up Barry Dare last year’s winner with 37 pts.
There were prizes for nearest the pin for ladies on the 5th which Shirley Roberts won. Nearest the line wad actually plumb and won by Shan Stapley beating yours truly by millimetres. Darren Jones took the prize for nearest the pin in2 for men on the 18th.
Big thanks to Haley who laid on sandwiches and chips for everyone after the game. It was fantastic to see so many enjoying the clubhouse and outside afterwards and attending the presentation. Let’s keep that atmosphere going please.
Finally June and July ended and started with 3 losses to our membership. Keith Jones, Graham Stokes and former Captain and President Richard Key all passing, they will always be remembered by most I’m sure.
Happy golfing and keep safe
Don Wraight
Club Captain
12 July, 2022
Yellowball Competition July 12th 2022. Results courtesy of Mike Healey
Well that was a surprise!! A glorious weekend behind us and a forecast to go through the roof ahead of us, the bulk of our members turned up in shorts. We were all non-plussed with the slow drizzle, which turned into persistent rain at one stage but the temperature gauge remained fairly high, so conditions were not too unpleasant. A perfect number (28 seniors put their tallies in) for a fourball Yellowball and two team prizes were the rewards for effort. As expected, the score of 180 points worked out as par - read on for the winning teams:
Yellowball:
First: Colin Evans, Mike Scott, Alan Pocklington, Jon Falcus 186 points
Second: Dave Jones, Graham Bryne, Peter Thomas, Mick Carnell 181 points
Ballsweep: 3 prizes: Jon Falcus (2 on 5th), Mick Carnell (2 on 5th), Dave Jones (2 on 9th - par 4)
On Thursday this week, 16 members are going off to Northop for a Senior's match but there will be an Individual Stableford set up for the rest of you back at Clays. Peter is setting up the computer as a qualifier but give your cards to Mitch, who will be resolving results and giving out kitty comp winnings. Don has taken down the sign-up sheet for next week's Two-Day Challenge so that he can complete the draw. If you still wish to play you need to contact him urgently and two reminders: (1) It is £5.00 to enter but that covers the two days. (2) You must be available for both days!! Well done again to today's winners.
11 July, 2022
Captains Day and other results July 9th 2022 and July 5th 2022
Captains Day July 9 2022
1 Fred Court 41 pts.
2 Brian Beaton 39 pts
3 Nick Buley 39 pts
Sunday Shop Stableford 10 July 2022
1 Darran Edwards 40 pts
2 Darren Jones 39 pts
3 Dylan Jones 38 pts
SENIORS
Tuesday July 5th 2022
Fourball - Four to Count:
First: Graham Bryne, Mike Parks, Mike Scott, Keith Hawthorn 141 points
Threeball - Three to Count:
First: Jon Falcus, Stewart Poole, Mike Healey 111 points
Second: Reg Peacock, John Kelty, Steve Graham 104 points
Seniors Monthly Medal 7 July 2022
Div1
1 Jonathan Falcus 79-13=66
2 Alan Bottomley 85-18-67
3 Chris Jacques 77-9=68
Div 2
1 Pauline Peacock 90-24=66
2 Graham Bryne 90-24=66
3 Michael Carnell 90-22=68
Div 3
1George Hughes 93-29=64
2 Fred Court 101-33=68
3 Dave Fergus 96-28=68
05 July, 2022
3 and 4 ball all scores to count. July 5th 2022. Report via Mike Healey and photo via Don Wraight
It was great to see Peter Lynch and Colin Williams returning to the fold today. Neither of them have been able to play for quite a while but watch this space for future results.
Before today's report ....
34 tallies went into the draw this morning, so we played two competitions (6 x Threeballs and 4 x Fourballs - All to Count). There were no fewer than 3 x 2's scored in the ballsweep: Alan Barnsdale on the 2nd, Graham Bryne on the 5th and Tony Jackson on the 12th. It also happened to be a roll-over week so winnings in that field were good.
We were expecting the possibility of isolated drizzle in patches but some fairly heavy showers ensued between 11.00 and 11.30am, which did affect some scores. For the main event there was 1 prize for the Fourballs and 2 prizes for the Threeballs:
Fourball - Four to Count:
First: Graham Bryne, Mike Parks, Mike Scott, Keith Hawthorn 141 points
Threeball - Three to Count:
First: Jon Falcus, Stewart Poole, Mike Healey 111 points
Second: Reg Peacock, John Kelty, Steve Graham 104 points
30 June, 2022
Pairs betterball June 30th 2022. Report via Mike Healey
Pairs Betterball Result - We should call ourselves the "rain dodgers" remaining dry throughout. There was rain before the draw, rain around us and in other parts of Wrexham while we were playing and further rain as some of us were leaving the club. No excuses today, the 19 C was a nice temperature to play in - you just had to get your partner into gear. A perfect number of 36 turned up for the draw and overall, amongst the 18 cards returned, there was a good series of scores. 38 points was popular (5 cards) but all of them just outside the prizes. 42 points went to countback as did the top score of 45 points. There were four prizes altogether - read on:
Result
First: Stuart Leyland and Colin Evans 45 points (c/b)
Second: Peter Taylor and Tom Pierce 45 points (c/b)
Third: Mike Drake and Tom Blackshaw 43 points
Fourth: Tony Jackson and Mike Healey 42 points (c/b) (Andy Mitchell and Nigel Davies just missed out with the same score)
28 June, 2022
Multiplier June 28th 2022. Results via Mike Healey
The "Cloud" forecast was spot on but the BBC failed to warn us about the gusty winds across the course. Never mind - At least they were right about rain coming in later and there were still some very good scores returned (1 member kick-started his team with a 5 pointer on the first hole - BK). Quite a few members went out early as they were tidying up knock-out matches (both individual and pairs) so once again, numbers were slightly down and awkward with 29. We played a Multiplier but with 2 competitions - threeball (1 prize) and fourball (2 prizes). Read on after the results for reminders.
Multiplier - Threeball
First: Bill Kelleher, Harold Hughes, John Kelty - 122 points
Multiplier - Fourball
First: Steve Graham, George Hughes, Gareth Thomas, Alan Pocklington - 138 points
Second: Peter Taylor, Jon Falcus, Mike Hollings, Don Wraight - 125 points
23 June, 2022
Memorial Day June 23rd 2022. Report from Mike Healey and photo from Don Wraight
what a scorcher! - and that's just the golf!! Shorts and plenty of drink were the orders of the day and no fewer than 47 members placed their tallies in the draw for our Memorial Trophy. With temperatures reaching 28/29C, we all did well to survive and complete cards.
While we have had three bereavements and a couple of funerals recently, it is always nice to remember our old mates. Every year on this day, Don places photographs and other name lists on all 18 tees, so that we can do that very thing. Chris Jacques (Senior captain) spoke about both our long-deceased (and more recent) colleagues and also held a minute's silence before the announcements of winners and presentation of the Memorial Trophy.
It was an individual Stableford Qualifier in terms of competition and there were 8 prizes in total. I am pleased to add that the top prize and the Memorial Trophy were both presented to Harold Hughes by the Senior Captain. Well done Harold!
Memorial Trophy Results:
First: Harold Hughes 44 points
Second: Tony Jackson 43 points
Third: Mike Scott 42 points
Fourth: Les Williams 41 points
Fifth: Andy Mitchell 40 points
Sixth: Jon Falcus 39 points (c/b)
Seventh: Damian Atkin 39 points (c/b)
Eighth: Fred Court 39 points (c/b)
21 June, 2022
Texas scramble June 21st. Report vis Mike Healey
It's not often we run out of superlatives for the weather (27C today) but hasn't it been great?! There were plenty of drinks on show and even the greens around the course needed a soaking from the bowser this morning. 33 members entered the draw today so we played 11 x threeballs and swiftly changed to Texas Scramble, as opposed to the Mexican version. I have to say that the winning card scored an incredible 62 gross, including 2 x 2's and 7 x 3's. There were three prizes and the following teams were the winners:
Texas Scramble Result:
First: Colin Brown, Reg Peacock, Russ Adamson - 52.5
Second: Mike Hollings, Mike Healey, Steve Monk - 54.7
Third: Liam Roddis, Gareth Thomas, Mike Scott - 57.1 and four other cards below 60 nett!!
Reminder - Thursday 23rd - Memorial Trophy is a roll up kitty comp and Individual Stableford Qualifier
17 June, 2022
Captains Newsletter June 2022
Captains Newsletter: June 2022
Published on 14th June 2022
Glorious Glorious June, lovely weather, fantastic golf course and lots of great facilities. This is Clays Golf Club at its finest. Use and enjoy all that’s on offer.
First let me congratulate Malcolm Williams and Ewan Bonds and team for all their great effort in producing a fantastic NHS charity day.
It was well supported from club members and visitors who praised the event and our course, so yet again a massive thanks to Mark and the boys for their efforts.
All the results from the day are on the Clay’s web site and well done to those prize winners. The weather was inclement to start but brightened as the day progressed although a strong breeze made for tough conditions. Scores were very close throughout and comments were that we have a very tough course.
The total monies raised will be posted as soon as the blind auction has been run. There are lots of fantastic prizes on offer and if anyone wishes to participate the auction will close on the 18th June. Details are still in the clubhouse.
Jubilee plate has entered the 1st round proper and matches are on the notice board so good luck to all in this round.
The DGU team visited Wrexham on the 29th May and achieved a narrow but a great win, 4 1/2 to 3 1/2. A brilliant start to the team’s league matches. Next is a visit from Moss Valley on Sunday 19th June. Good luck team and well done to Vice Captain Mick McHugh in picking a winning team.
Congratulations Clays Ladies winning their home match against Royal St Davids Harlech in the NW Challenge shield. The Ladies section has been supported well and continues to grow with new members, which is fantastic for the club.
JCB qualifier is now on the HDID knockout section, if you were among the top eight you will see who you are pitted against in the knockout stages; please complete the 1st round by beginning of July.
A note from our handicap secretary Peter Bowen, please if you enter a competition you are obliged to submit your card, even if you decide midway that you are having a bad round. Failure to do so can mean you could be penalised by Wales golf.
Up and coming event is CAPTAINS’ DAY on the 9th July. This, as last year will be a shotgun start. Entry sheet is on the noticeboard at the bottom of the stairs, please support. £10 entry, which will incorporate food, and a free drink at the bar. If any member wishes to donate raffle prizes please leave at reception and big thanks for doing so.
Having just completed the NHS charity day brings me and Lady Captain to inform members that our charity this year will be in aid of Shooting Star Cancer Support Wrexham, who apart from myself, have given great help and care to many. There will be further information concerning the charity in the form of leaflets in the clubhouse. Please help and we will be hosting our charity day on the 13th August.
Just leaves me to wish you all good golf and to remind you that using the rakes in the bunkers is free, so please use them.
Don Wraight
Club Captain
16 June, 2022
Seniors 4 ball tango report June 16th 2022 from Mike Healey
the good weather continues! ☀☀ My car thermometer registered 280C after the presentations and the majority of members who turned up were glad they were in shorts. That was the only thing that could have put us off our golf today. The course is in great nick and the groundstaff were putting even more work into the bunkers. A number of seniors were playing in the pairs knockout and another group were on a day out at Abergele, not to mention the crowd down in Devon for the week. Despite the absences, 19 members still went into the draw for a Fourball Tango and we employed a ghost player (dubbed Jacob Marley) for one of the groups. On average - par for this format should have been around 96 points, Three groups achieved this and the two others were not far behind. There were two prizes - read on for the result:
Fourball Tango:
First: Ian Ketland, Ken Tieszen, Steve Monk, Chris Jacques - 112 points
Second: Andy Mitchell, Bill Kelleher, Mike Scott, Stan Robertds - 99 points
14 June, 2022
Holywell match and Kitty Competition results June 14th 2022. Report from Mike Healey
The Summer rolls on. Another glorious day weatherwise and smiles all round. The Holywell members passed good comments on the condition of our course and they were a friendly bunch indeed. Unfortunately they could only field 14 players in the end but we made adjustments and our spare players joined the remaining seniors for a small kitty comp. We adjourned afterwards to the clubhouse, where Hayley provided our regular tasty two-course and we all enjoyed the conviviality. Chris Jacques wrapped up the presentation in fine humour. Alas there were no 2's but there was a raffle draw for wine and the two bottles were won by Ram Patel and Bernie Welsh (both from Holywell). Dave Hughes, their organiser announced the result, which favoured Clays four and a half to two and a half. I would like to thank Steve Monk and Nigel Davies for helping with the money collections and Dave Palferman for keeping me in the game!! A great day all round.
Back at the clubhouse Andy Mitchell announced the kc winners:
First: Tom McGrady 43 points
Second: Colin Brown 40 points
Third: Mike Scott 39 points
10 June, 2022
Seniors Medal June 9th 2022
Div 1
1 Alan Bottomley 82-19=63
2 Malcolm Williams 89-20=69
3 Thomas Blackshaw 89-19=70
Div 2
1 Brian Beaton 96-26=70
2 Reg Peacock 92-22=70
3 Mike Hollings 96-24=72
Div 3
1 Dave Fergus 99-29=70
2 Ken Tieszen 102-31=71
3 Alan Pocklington 110-37=73
08 June, 2022
Seniors news June 7th 2022. Report from Mike Healey and Andrew Mitchell
MiKE Healey joined 27 other Clays members at Shrewsbury GC Open today and what a great day we all had - home and away. The inclement weather at the weekend and tomorrow's forecast for wall to wall rain was broken up brilliantly by today's 20 degrees of warm and sunny weather, which was brilliant for our golf. No fewer than 7 committee members were at Shrewsbury for the Open and in the unfortunate absence of the remaining committee members, today's kitty comp was left in the capable hands of Andy Mitchell. Mike is in his debt for the following report. Despite having 28 abroad, 20 seniors also turned in at Clays for the Individual Stableford draw. There were 5 prizes and the result follows:
Individual Stableford Result:
First: Peter Taylor 42 points
Second: Reg Peacock 41 points
Third: Liam Roddis 40 points
Fourth: Jon Falcus 39 points
Fifth: Graham Bryne 38 points
02 June, 2022
Jubilee Kitty competition June 2nd 2022.Results courtesy of Don Wraight- club captain
31 Seniors showed up today and played a best 2 scores to count.
Beautiful conditions, bright and sunny and the course was fabulous.
1st: with a score of 94pts: ALAN POCKLINGTON, KEN TEISZEN, MICK CARNELL & ALAN BOTTOMLEY
2nd. Scoring 92 pts; DAVE PALFERMAN; LES WILLIAMS; MICK HOLLINGS & TONY JACKSON
31 May, 2022
Yellow ball. May 31st 2022. Report via Steve Monk
Today we played a Yellow Ball competition with 8 x fourball teams. Although rain was promised in most weather forecasts, the morning turned out to be dry and umbrellas were never in evidence, conditions proving to be very good. Results were:
1st - Peter Taylor, Brian Beaton, Bob Jarvis and Liam Roddis, with 177 points.
2nd - Mike Parks, Stewart Poole, Tony Jackson and Colin Evans, with 172 points.
Following the game, Don Wraight, Club Captain, presented the Wales Seniors Greensomes Trophy for 2021 to winners Damian Atkin and Stewart Poole.
Well done to Damian and Stewart and to all of today's winners too.
26 May, 2022
Unknown Stableford Pairs results from Mike Healey May 26th 2022
Today's Golf - Wasn't the course great today? Not only did it look good but it played well and the greens just carry on improving. Warm but breezy conditions did not make a dent on the golf itself and the odd sprinkling of rain proved the BBC forecast wrong again. 31 seniors placed tallies in the draw so we had an odd number for Unknown Pairs. One player had two bites of the cherry but it didn't matter because all partners were random anyway. Each card on arrival back in the clubhouse received a specific number and the scores were totalled. The following pairs made the prize money:
Unknown Stableford Pairs:
First: Brian Beaton (42pts) and Reg Peacock (42pts) Total 84pts
Second: Colin Evans (36pts) and Ernie Williams (40pts) Total 76pts
Third: Tony Jackson (42pts) and Alan Bottomley (33pts) Total 75pts
Fourth: Fred Court (34pts) and Harold Hughes (40pts) Total 74 pts
24 May, 2022
Texas scramble results May 24th 2022. Courtesy of Mike Healey
Today's Texas Scramble Result
The course just seems to be getting better each week and the greens are not far from being in tip top condition for the coming summer season. Showers were forecast and boy, when they arrived, they were fast and furious. I'm glad to add that they were also intermittent and most of us came in dryish! Overall we played in warm if not sunny conditions. Once again, quite a few members were involved with knockout matches (some more successful than others I might add) but it did not deplete numbers. No fewer than 36 seniors put their tallies into the draw for our Texas Scramble. Three teams were still a little confused over handicap percentages and reductions but we resolved their cards and the following results were recorded:
First: Peter Taylor, Billy Spilsted, John Kelty, Keith Hawthorn score - 53.1
Second: Gareth Thomas, Mike Parks, Ken Tieszen, Tony Jackson score - 54.6
Third : Peter Bowen, Mike Hollings, Tom McGrady, Andy Mitchell score - 55.2
20 May, 2022
Best 3 scores from 4 May 19th 2022. Report from Mike Healey and Steve Monk.
eniors - in my absence, can I thank Steve Monk for the following report:
35 players turned up for today's Senior's kitty competition, which was an alternative to the originally planned 'Unknown Pairs'. Instead we played a 'Best 3 scores from 4' competition, with the Unknown Pairs being moved to next week. 9 x 4-ball teams participated, with one team fielding a 'Ghost Player' using the recently introduced method for scoring this non-existent 4th team member. Results were:
1st - David Jones, Ernie Williams, Mick Carnell and Stan Roberts, with 130 points.
2nd - Bill Kelleher, Tony Jackson, Wyn Jenkins and Peter Fraser, with 126 points.
3rd - Nigel Davies, Richard Collier, Stewart Poole and Harold Hughes, with 123 points
18 May, 2022
Gemini Trophy May 17th 2022. Report via Mike Healey
The weather remained blowy but warm today allowing us pleasant conditions to play in. Once again, the course looked and played in good condition despite some overnight rain. We had been warned about the fertiliser granules on the greens and although they slowed the putting a little, they didn't seem to make much difference. The Gemini Trophy is unusual in that it is strokeplay with two players adding their nett scores together for an overall combined score. We asked members to enter their scores into the computer but teething troubles with the new software put an end to that. Worry not - the data has been recorded elsewhere. It is worth noting also that this competition is a non-qualifier as playing partners are able to confer during the playing process. Only two members shot a 2 in the ballsweep - both on the fifth hole and both within seconds of each other. Congratulations go to Alan Barnsdale and Tom McGrady. Overall, 44 members teed from the first and this time the result follows in reverse order:
Fifth Place: Alan Bottomley (74) and Mick Carnell (71) Combined nett score -145
Fourth Place: Andy Mitchell (76) and David Jones (68) Combined nett score - 144
Third Place: Stuart Leyland (71) and Tony Harcombe (71) Combined nett score - 142
Second Place: Alan Barnsdale (72) and Mike Healey (69) Combined nett score - 141
and the Winners of this year's Gemini Trophy are..................
First Place: Mike Hollings (69) and Dave Palferman (68) Combined nett score - 137
13 May, 2022
Home match vs Old Padeswood and kitty competition May 1th 2022. Report from Mike Healey
A good day for all of our members who played in the home match against Old Padeswood. The weather held throughout, although the breeze did increase mid-morning, making conditions somewhat chilly at one stage. The course was in very good condition and the opposition were not only complimentary about conditions but a very sociable bunch to play against. Congratulations must go to the team, as we have continued with our winning ways in defeating the opposition by 9 matches to 1.
Hayley provided a very good 2 course meal (as usual) and the conviviality flowed. The opposition Ladies Captain turned out to support her team (without playing) and with speeches from captains and prizes at the end, the whole day was a complete success. Raffle bottles of wine were won by Ron Braid (OP) and another OP member whose name escapes me. 2’s golfballs in the ball sweep were won by Andy Turner (OP), Alan Bottomley and Mick Carnell. Our thanks also go to Tom Pierce for donning the mantle and taking on the responsibility for organisation in Mal Williams’ absence. Well done all.
And for those Clays members not involved in the match…………. An impromptu kitty comp transpired with Steve Monk leading from the front – almost literally!! 11 seniors put their tallies up on the board and an individual game of Stableford took place:
Stableford Kitty Comp
First: Peter Taylor 37 points
Second: Wynn Jenkins 35 points
Third: Steve Monk 34 points
10 May, 2022
Seniors both scores count May 10th 2022. Report from Mike Healey.
Mike's better Half was in serious trouble first thing this morning. She told me that the forecast was light cloud with intermittent sunshine. The shorts came on for me and several other seniors but the umbrellas also appeared for the "intermittent showers". The sun did eventually shine forth and the group competition saw a pleasurable ending. 31 tallies went into the draw, so one lucky person had two bites of the cherry at the front of the crowd. Tony Harcombe was the only player to shoot a 2 (on the second) but alas, we did not run a ballsweep on this occasion. It makes no never mind because he won in the top pair anyway. There were four prizes today and the winners were as follows:
Pairs - Both Scores to Count
First: Tony Harcombe & Mike Healey 72 points (c/b)
Second: Colin Brown & Peter Fraser 72 points (c/b)
Third: Harold Hughes & Brian Beaton 70 points
Fourth: George Hughes & Alan Barnsdale 66 points
There were three other very respectable cards on 65 points. Match v Old Padeswood on Thursday 12th. Book your own tees or there might possibly be some spaces after both teams in the match have teed off. Don't forget the Gemini Trophy sign up for next week.
06 May, 2022
Seniors Monthly Medal May 5th 2022
Seniors Monthly Medal May 5th 2022
Div 1
1 Chris Jacques 79-9-70
2 Derek Jones 89-17-72
3 Wyn Jenkins 90-18-72
Div 2
1 Tom McGrady 89-24-65
2 Pauline Peacock 92-25-67
3 William Kelleher 88-21-67
Div 3
1 Steve Monk 94-29-65
2 David Fergus 101-29-72
3 Peter Bowen 108-35-73
03 May, 2022
Bonus ball April 3rd 2022. Report from Mike Healey
With competition first-round deadlines looming, quite a few seniors were involved elsewhere on the course this morning. That said, there were still 32 participants to take part in the Bonus Ball kitty comp. The forecast rain at 1.00pm did not materialise and with ongoing mowing taking place, the course is really starting to get into shape. There were a number of two's recorded but unfortunately, we did not run a ballsweep on this occasion. There was an outright winning team but three cards were within 3 points of each other for runner-up spot. There were only two prizes today. See you all for the medal on Thursday.
Bonus Ball (Fourball):
First: Russ adamson, Bill Kelleher, Mike Drake, Nigel Davies 181 points
Second: Fred Court, Alan Pocklington, Peter Thomas, Liam Roddis 172 points
02 May, 2022
Captains Newsletter May 2022
Published on 2nd May 2022
May has arrived with warmer weather and the prospect of good golf dressed in summer clothing.
Greens are still being worked on, and due to this nicer drier weather greenstaff have been hampered with no rain to wash the sand in, although as I write this a shower is falling. Please stay patient and it will not be too long before they are back to their best.
To help maintain your golf course can I remind members to insure that you rake the bunkers after using them, what a pain it is when your ball lands in a foot print? Replace those divots and repair those pitch marks and our course will be top dollar.
This month sees lots of Club competitions being played and opportunities to represent the Club in many ways.
A GUW team qualifier was played at the weekend and the top 8 players will be split into two teams to go on to a regional final and if successful then go to Celtic Manor in August of this year, good luck to you all.
Seniors have started their matches and were successful in beating Old Padeswood away 8/2 well done to them and good luck in the forthcoming return match on the 12th.
Ladies have played their Challenge Bowl and congratulations to Gillian Williams who beat Lady Captain Julie Hanmer-Price on countback to claim the trophy both scoring 38 points.
We have exciting times ahead with the launch of the Intelligent Golf Management system on the 11th of May. This will be replacing the BRS system and will make life a lot easier for the lads in reception and us members. Josh will be sending out details very soon on how to operate the new system and there is also an app that you can download onto your devices if you so wish.
Please remember to have a pint or a coffee after your game and get that clubhouse buzzing.
Don Wraight
Captain
28 April, 2022
Welsh Greensomes qualifier April 28th.Report from Mike Healey
Another good day for the Section. The forecast was always cool with a gentle breeze and that is how it remained. No fewer than 45 members turned out for our Welsh Greensomes Qualifier. Before the result, can I record my thanks to Irwin Elkin for relinquishing his pairing position and marking one of the group cards. 22 pairs took part overall in the Greensomes, but not all qualifiers. It was also played as a kitty competition with five prizes. The following results came in for the kitty comp - read on for the Qualifier Result.
Greensomes Result:
First: Ernie Williams and Keith Hawthorn 43 points
Second: Mike Drake and Steve Monk 42 points (c/b)
Third: Bill Kelleher and Chris Jacques 42 points (c/b)
Fourth: Peter Fraser and Harold Hughes 41 points (c/b)
Fifth: Peter Taylor and Barry Evans 41 points (c/b)
Dave Palferman and Richard Collier just missed out (also on 41 points (c/b)
Welsh Greensomes Qualifier - The winnining pair above are unable to travel to the Welsh finals, which are being held this year at Llanishen Golf Club, on the outskirts of Cardiff (15th September). The Clays Senior representatives will therefore be Mike Drake and Steve Monk. We all wish them well going forward. Mention also of our Reserve Pair - Bill Kelleher and Chris Jacques whose entry has to be submitted. I will follow this result up with your monthly calendar for May,
27 April, 2022
Individual Stableford qualifier April 26th 2022. Report from Mike Healey
No fewer than 42 members put their tallies in for the draw this morning and there were a number of very good scorecards returned at the end. We started off in a fairly cool breeze but the sunshine broke through on occasions, leaving a warm temperature and benign conditions to play our golf in. There were seven prizes in total and they were distributed amongst the following members:
Individual Stableford Qualifier:
First: Ernie Williams 43 points
Second: Brian Beaton 40 points
Third: Peter Fraser 39 points
Fourth: Alan Barnsdale 38 points
Fifth: Les Williams 37 points (c/b)
Sixth: Mike Drake 37 points (c/b)
Seventh: Reg Peacock 36 points (c/b) * Three other players also registered 36 points
In the Ballsweep - Three players registered 2's: Bob Jarvis (2nd Hole), Andy Mitchell (2nd Hole), Nigel Davies (5th Hole)
22 April, 2022
Result of Padeswood match April 22nd 2022 from Malcolm Williams
We continued our winning streak with an 8-2 victory against Old Padeswood away today. Their course was in excellent condition and the usual banter ensued throughout with an enjoyable meal afterwards. Two’s were achieved by Mike Scott, Richard Collier, Barry Dare and Nev. Bassett. Our next fixture is at home to Old Padeswood on Thursday, 12th May – please sign up as soon as possible on the Notice Board in the Club.
Pairs betterball results from Mike Healey/Steve Monk April 22nd 2022
Mike is very much very much in Steve Monk's debt for resolving cards and sending the below report:
Today turned out to be a great day for golf. 16 pairs competed in a Pairs Betterball kitty competition. Before giving the list of winners, I must report that a hole-in-one was recorded today by one of our players on the 12th hole. Keith Hawthorn hit a really sweet 6-iron from the tee. It sailed beautifully towards the green on a line slightly left of the flag, landing just at the front edge of the green. After pitching, the ball took a kick slightly right, bounced a couple of times before commencing a roll and finally disappearing down the hole! Excellent shot. For those of us in opposition, the slight downside was that the shot earned Keith and his partner 5 stableford points!!
As for the results, they were as follows....
1st - Dave Palferman and Keith Hawthorn with 47 points.
2nd - Irwin Elkin and Andrew Mitchell with 44 points.
3rd - Barry Evans and Tom McGrady with 43 points.
4th - Mike Hollings and Reg Peacock with the best countback score from 4 pairs with 40 points.
Keith after his ace can be seen in picture below.
19 April, 2022
Multiplier April 19th 2022. Report from Mike Healey
This e-mail is in 2 parts. Firstly - a reminder to sign up for the Welsh Greensomes on the 28th April (£5.00 per couple). It will be run as a kitty comp on the day and anyone can play in the greensomes but members who have signed up to the Welsh competition will receive priority on the tees.
Secondly - Multiplier Result. The forecast, beforehand, was cool and cloudy but it turned out anything but. The wind was almost non-existent and rather warm conditions meant that shirt sleeves came to the fore. 34 members entered the draw this morning for the Multiplier. Once again - two sections were required, with 2 prizes for the Threeballs and 1 prize for the Fourballs.
Multiplier - Threeballs:
First: Don Wraight, Mike Parks, Mike Hollings 96 points
Second: Peter Fraser, Alan Bottomley, Mike Drake 93 points
Third: Brian Beaton, Graham Wright, Tony Harecombe 85 points
Multiplier - Fourballs:
First: Tom McGrady, Rodney Evans, Peter Thomas, Alan Barnsdale 105 points
Second: Stuart Leyland, John Kelty, Bill Spilsted, Peter Taylor 99 points
Third: Chris Jacques, Peter Regan, Andy Mitchell, Barry Evans 96 points
In the 2's sweep the following were carded
Tony Harcombe - 2 on the 5th
Don Wraight - 2 on the 12th
15 April, 2022
3 and four ball Texas scramble April 14th 2022. Report via Mike Healey
The torrential rain from Tuesday had soaked away just in time for the greens to receive top dressing! We knew it was coming, so there was a contingency plan if work was taking place on our particular playing hole. The weather was cloudy but warm and conditions made for a pleasant round of golf, despite the odd unavoidable mound of sand on the greens. 41 Seniors appeared for the draw and we split into threes and fours for 2 separate Texas Scrambles. There were two prizes for each section.
Threeball Texas Scramble:
First: Tony Harcombe, Mike Hollings, Mick Carnell 59.2
Second: Jon Falcus, Les Williams, Barry Dare 61.9
Third: Bob Jarvis, Peter Fraser, Mike Healey 63.8
Fourball Texas Scramble:
First: Don Wraight, Graham Bryne, Stan Roberts, Richard Collier 57.6
Second: Keith Hawthorn, Bill Kelleher, Wyn Jenkins, Dave A Jones 57.9
Third: Stewart Poole, Ernie Williams, Nigel Davies, Steve Monk 58.0
12 April, 2022
Winter league first 3 results 2022
Peril Ball results April 12th 2022. Report from Mike Healey
How did we know that a ball was in standing water, further down the course? Because there were two ducks paddling next to it!! The forecast had been heavy showers with sunny intervals in between. We ended up with persistent rain for exactly three hours and there was not much mention of the sun when the cards were returned to the clubhouse.
A quick explanation of the newly tried "Peril Ball" was the order of the day and 25 stalwarts took to the fairways to do the business. Again, because of numbers, we split into threes and fours and there was only one prize for each of the sections. Despite a few damp patches returning on clothing, we received a number of positive comments on the format and my thanks go to Mike Hollings for the original suggestion. Peril Ball will re-appear later in the year. There was only one x 2 in the ball sweep and the kitty ended up in Nigel Davies' hands after his two on the fifth. Whatever you do - don't ask him who won the Grand National sweep at the weekend.
Peril Ball Threeballs:
First: Don Wraight (Club Captain), Liam Roddis, Graham Bryne 86points
Second: Les Williams, Jon Falcus, Ken Tieszen 74points
Third: Graham Wright, Alan Barndsdale, Mike Healey 73points
Peril Ball Fourballs:
First: Steve Monk, Mick Carnell, Alan Pocklington, Barry Dare 108points
Second: Ivan Corlett, Peter Regan, Tom McGrady, Andy Mitchell 93points
Third: Mike Hollings, Nigel Davies, Alan Bottomley, Steve Graham 92points
11 April, 2022
08 April, 2022
Captains Newsletter from Don Wraight April 2022
Captains Newsletter: April 2022
Published on 8th April 2022
On behalf of Lady Captain Julie Hanmer-Price and myself, we wish to thank those that supported The Captain’s “Drive Ins” on Saturday.
It was lovely to see so many members either playing or watching the dazzling display that was put on by Vice Captains, Sue Falcus and Mick McHugh. You could say that the proceedings went off with a bang! Both Captains having to drive off with older clubs and exploding golf balls! Our actual drives were on the fairway, with a combined yardage of 317yds. The “Guess the Combined Yardage” went to past Captain Nigel Davies who guessed 318 yds.
Congratulations to the winner of the Ladies Drive in Nicola Bowen with a score of 33pts and to Anthony Norris with an incredible 43pts winning the Men’s Drive In.
Weather was cool but bright and the course was, and is, in fantastic condition, so a massive thanks to Mark and team who worked so tirelessly on Friday to make the course so great.
This brings me to remind members that to keep the course so well there will be course maintenance work taking place beginning on April 11th for the week. Please allow the green staff to continue with their work without hindrance and if necessary move to the next hole to continue with your round.
Those that are in various knockout competitions will see the various draws on HDID, which are to be played within those dates, so please make sure these are played which will allow the competitions to progress without any hiccups. Seniors have their draws inside the tally cabinet and again, please play by the allotted dates.
April sees the introduction to the dreaded white tee markers, denoting the start of the playing season. There will be an abundance of competitions and chances to represent the Club in the coming months so please support these and you may be victorious and have a trophy together with your name on the honours boards.
Our aim this year will be to have members support the club and those that help provide a great service to all of us. Josh, Russ and Andy, in reception, Ben in the shop, who has a fantastic display of goods to purchase at good prices. Our coaching staff, Gareth James, Richard Edwards, Steve Priest and Rhodri Fieldhouse, who have all the equipment and knowledge to improve your game.
Not forgetting Hayley, who not only supplies us with good food but also a bar service. It would be great to see more members use the clubhouse and get that buzz back that we used to have before the lockdowns. This is the place to get to know other members, enjoy some banter and a coffee or pint or two!
Lastly if anyone has ideas on how to improve the social side of the club I would be interested to hear their views or any other ideas. This is YOUR club so let’s have your views on what you would like to see happen if possible.
Don Wraight
Club Captain
07 April, 2022
Seniors Medal April 7th 2022
Seniors Monthly Medal
Division 1 Result
1st Andrew Mitchell 91-18=73
2nd Alan Barnsdale 90-16=74
3rd David Palferman 89-14=75
Division 2 Result
1st Tom McGrady 94-24=70
2nd Stewart Poole 97-23=74
3rd Michael Kalka 102-25=77
Division 3 Result
1st Liam Roddis 104-33=71
2nd Barry Dare 99-28=71
3rd George Hughes 101-29=72
05 April, 2022
Three ball Waltz and 4 ball Tango results from Mike Healey April 5th 2022
Another good day weather-wise. The promised showers did not materialize and there was little evidence on show from the overnight rain. 29 seniors put their tallies up on the board for the 8.45am draw, so we split into 3 x Threeballs for a Waltz and 5 x Fourballs for a Tango. It was Strictly Golf!! with some reasonable scoring, especially the tight fourball result. See results below:
Threeball Waltz: (1 prize)
First: Stewart Poole, Barry Dare, Mike Healey 84 points
Second: Andy Mitchell, Bob Brown, Liam Roddis 74 points
Third: Peter Taylor, Bill Kelleher, Nigel Davies 62 points
Fourball Tango: (2 prizes)
First: Tony Harcombe, Tom McGrady, Mick Carnell, Peter Fraser 93 points
Second: Richard Collier, Colin Evans, Dave Jones, Peter Thomas 89 points (c/b)
Third: Les Williams, Mike Parks, Alan Bottomley, Steve Monk 89 points (c/b)
There was only one winner in the 2's competition - Nigel Davies on the 5th hole. Well done all the above.
31 March, 2022
Seniors both scores to count March 31st 2922. Report from Mike Haeley
Fellow Members - I believe the weather was better than expected. The overnight rain had been absorbed and the work around the course is making it look very tidy. The wind kept us cool on occasions but the sunshine tried to come through and overall we had pleasant conditions. 35 Seniors attended so there was an odd grouping of three, which was accommodated. Please find result below.
Pairs - Both to Count:
First: Dave A Jones and Mike Drake - 72 points
Second: Mick Carnell and Keith Hawthorn - 68 points (c/b)
Third: George Hughes and Mike Healey - 68 points (c/b)
Fourth: Bill Kelleher and Richard Collier - 64 points
30 March, 2022
Las Vegas competition March Report from Mike Healey March 29th 2022
Odd numbers were not too difficult to organise today. Three x 3 balls (basically the committee) were sent out in front of the group, in order to get back in for their committee meeting. They held a separate competition with the same format. Seven x 4 balls contested the main comp., which I gather became long-winded. The Las Vegas format that we played, by nature, requires everybody to putt out, so inevitably the course timing was unfortunately extended for the latter groups. The fog at the outset delayed us a little bit but the sun came through and combined with course conditions, it made for a good morning's golf. Please find both results below:
Las Vegas - Three Ball
First: Don Wraight (Club Captain), Alan Bottomley, Mike Healey 698 points
Second: Peter Bowen, Mike Hollings, Malcolm Williams 707 points
Las Vegas - Four ball
First: Mick Carnell, Liam Roddis, Ken Tieszen, Bill Kelleher 610 points
Second: Dave Jones, Harold Hughes, Tom McGrady, Keith Hawthorn 641 poin
28 March, 2022
Captains News letter March 2022
Captains Newsletter: March 2022
Published on 28th March 2022
Welcome to my last newsletter as your Club Captain. Rather than say a long-winded goodbye I thought I would take the easy option and borrow some lines from the song made famous by Frank Sinatra.
And now, the end is near
And so I face the final curtain….
Regrets I’ve had a few
But then again, too few to mention
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exception
Yes, there were times, I’m sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew
The record shows, I took the blows
But I did it my way……..
(My Way by Paul Anka)
Well that just about sums up my two years as your Club Captain. It was mainly a pleasure, and I thank you all for your support, both on and off the golf course. Your respective contributions to the nominated Captains charities have been extremely generous. The final amount raised for the Alzheimer’s Society is in excess of £2500. This sum is in addition to the £750 raised for the British Heart Foundation in 2021. Your contributions will, I’m sure, make a difference to those less fortunate than ourselves.
A big thanks to management, Mr & Mrs Lewis, for their continued investment, Josh, Russ and Andy for their help and support. Also, Mark and his team for continuing to work hard maintaining and improving the course to enhance our enjoyment of the sport we all love.
Looking forward, I sincerely hope members continue to support our club competitions, club teams, our Club Council, Hayley in the bar and of course our new Club Captain Don and Lady Captain Julie. It is only with your support and participation that our club can prosper; don’t let your immediate past captain down.
Your Captain has left the course….
Dave Palferman
Captain 2020 & 2021
25 March, 2022
Seniors home match vs Mold 24th March 2022. Report from Malcolm Williams
Our first Seniors’match of the season was played Thursday March 24th in glorious sunshine at home against Mold. The course was in excellent condition and the refreshments provided were first class. Many of the Mold players made really positive comments during the day, so congratulations and thanks to Mark and Hayley.
We managed to win the match 7-3 so congratulations to all who represented Clays.
Our next match is away to Old Padeswood on Friday, 22nd April.
23 March, 2022
Winter League round 6 results from Steve Monk March 22nd 2022
March 22nd 2022, Winter League Round 6.
38 players turned out today for Round 6 of the Seniors Winter League. The weather was perfect - dry, warm and little or no wind - and the course had dried out really well from the plentiful winter rain. All this resulted in some keen competition for score-counting places in the final Winter League game of the season.
Prize- and points-winners were:
1st: Bill Kelleher with 42 Stableford points - 10 league points.
2nd: Mike Drake with 42 (on countback) - 9 league points.
3rd: Mick Carnell with 42 (on countback) - 8 league points.
4th: Alan Bottomley with 40 - 7 league points.
5th: Alan Barnsdale with 39 - 6 league points.
6th: Ken Tieszen with 39 (on countback) - 5 league points.
7th: Peter Taylor with 38 points - 4 league points.
8th: Stewart Poole with 38 points (on countback) - 3 league points.
9th: George Hughes with 38 points (on countback) - 2 league points.
10th: Richard Collier with 37 points - 1 league point
18 March, 2022
Seniors Monthly Medal March 17th 2022
Seniors Monthly Medal.
Thursday 17th March 2022
Div1
1 Andrew Mitchell 42 pts
2 Don Wraight 40 pts
3 Damian Atkin 38 pts
Div 2
1 Tom McGrady 48 pts
2 Michael Carnell 41 pts
3 Harold Hughes 40 pts
Div 3
1 David Fergus 40 pts
2 Stuart Leyland 40 pts
3 David A. Jones 39 pts.
16 March, 2022
Waltz kitty competition March 15th 2022. Report from Steve Monk.
Today was scheduled as a Tango competition for which four balls are required. However we had 33 attenders today, so slightly altered the competition to a Waltz, which we played in 11 x 3 balls over the full 18-hole course. Winners were as follows:
1st - Don Wraight, Russ Adamson and Peter Fraser, with 87 points.
2nd - Dave Palferman, Mick Carnell and Dave A Jones, with 86 points.
3rd - Joe White, Ken Tieszen and Peter Thomas, with 81 points (on countback from the 4th team).
13 March, 2022
Pairs Betterball March 10th. Results from Chris Jacques
Pairs betterball 10th March.
1st. Peter Bowen/Stewart Poole 46pts
2nd. Stuart Leyland/Tom McGrady 45pts ( cpo )
3rd. Irwin Elkin/Keith Hawthorne 45pts
4th Mike Hollins/Alan Bottomley 44pts ( cpo )
08 March, 2022
Seniors Golf report Four Ball 3 to count from Mike Healey. March 8th 2022
A relatively trouble-free day of golf! The damp!! period from last week has dried up nicely and fairway cutting plus narrow tining on the greens, are all helping the course to look in good condition for this time of year. 36 soldiers registered for today's Fourball - 3 to Count, in cool but dry conditions and there were 3 team prizes. The organiser expected a score of 108 points plus as average and he wasn't disappointed. The bottom card of 9 registered that very score, with another on 109 and 4 cards on 112, good scoring indeed. Reminder - Pairs Betterball on Thursday 10th, with Steve in charge and Hayley leaves for the Caribbean on Sunday, so no catering facilities on either the 15th and 17th March. There will be opportunity for prizes on the 15th (buy your own coffee) and the 17th is, of course, the revised medal. Today's Result:
Fourball - 3 to Count:
First: Peter Bowen, Nigel Davies, Peter Taylor, Graham Bryne 124 points
Second: Tom McGrady, Alan Barnsdale, Alan Pocklington, Steve Monk 119 points
Third: Liam Roddis, Irwin Elkin, Stewart Poole, Tom Blacksahw 118 points
07 March, 2022
Captains News letter March 2022
Well, dry January has swiftly been followed by a stormy February. Goodbye to Dudley, Eunice and Franklin lookout for Gladys, Herman and Imani. We should all hope that storm Willemien does not arrive anytime soon!
Your vice-captain Don and I had the pleasure of attending the AGM of the Denbighshire Golfing Union (DGU) held at Denbigh golf club earlier this month. A presentation to the winners of the respective DGU competitions held throughout the 2021 season formed a significant part of the AGM. Once again, our golf club won some significant competitions. Congratulations to all those who had success in the DGU competitions last year. Can I ask all members to keep checking the notice boards for sign-up sheets for the DGU competitions to be held this coming season including, Spring Meeting, DGU Team, Jubilee Plate etc?
The DGU, like other golfing unions and golf clubs, are struggling to attract volunteers to fill council posts. The DGU has vacancies for a Treasurer and a Competition Secretary currently. It is clear from the discussions held at the AGM that the future of the union is under threat if it cannot attract volunteers from the nine participating clubs to fill positions on the council. Should any member wish to volunteer for either of the above posts please contact Don Wraight. The DGU has entered into preliminary discussions with Flintshire, who are similarly struggling to attract volunteers from the 11 participating clubs, about possible joint working in the future. The scope of co-operation will be discussed at meetings of the DGU council in the near future.
That reminds me, we are still short of a volunteer to take over form Paul Lloyd as our club Competition Secretary. As noted in last month’s newsletter, this position provides the post holder with the opportunity to make a positive contribution to the running of the members section. It also provides a seat on the Club Council that meets to discuss current issues and make long term plans on the first Tuesday of each month. As you can see attending one meeting each month is not an enormous commitment, so why not give it a go? A nomination form has been posted on the notice board.
Finally, can I ask that any member who intends to attend the Captains Last Supper buy their tickets as soon as possible? In order to ensure sufficient food and drink is available on the night Hayley needs to confirm numbers by Friday 11th March.
Enjoy your golf and stay safe.
Dave Palferman
Captain 20221
dpalferman@gmail.com
01 March, 2022
St David's Day competition March 1st 2022. Report from Mike Healey
Let us start at the very beginning. Don asked all of us to arrive early for today's competition, which most of us did. The previous day's rain had left 5 holes unplayable, so the course was reduced in holes and distance and it was also deemed unfit for buggies and ride-ons from the outset (BRS message at 7.27am). Don and Chris were faced with making a decision, which was never going to please everybody. Ultimately, the least worst option for everybody that turned up, was to play the competition over 13 holes and complete the prizegiving after the lunch. Chris made this very clear in his summary at the end of proceedings.
St David's Day Trophy - This report starts with a great big thank you to Don for his magnificent effort for our St David's Day Trophy competition. Not only did he sort out the sign-up sheet and starting tees, but also gathered together another Welsh assortment of prizes for this event (ten in all!). Thanks also to Steve for sorting money, as usual, and liaising with Hayley regarding the (soup and sandwiches) lunch provided afterwards. Last but not least, the final thank you goes to Ernie, who not only provided Welsh cakes at the start but personally baked them. Well done all three!!
38 members returned cards and enjoyed 13 holes in sunny weather, cool to start with but reaching a heady 11C. Because we lost the 16th tee, alternative starts were hastily re-arranged. There were some good scores at the top end and a lot of countback in the middle. Please find the top ten scores below plus a list of Two's (all on the 5th green) in the ball sweep:
Winner - St David's Day Trophy and Penderyn Malt Whisky - Mick Carnell (33 points)
Second - Gin - Graham Bryne (31 points)
Third - Hip Flask - Dave Palferman - (30 points)
Fourth - Merlyn Liqueur - Brian Beaton (29 points) c/b
Fifth - 6 x Logo golf balls + 1 x beer - Peter Thomas (29 points) c/b
Sixth - 3 x Logo golf balls + 2 x beers - Ernie Williams (29 points) c/b
Seventh - 3 x Logo golf balls + 1 x beer - Irwin Elkin (28 points) c/b
Eighth - Welsh Cap + 2 x beers - Richard Collier (28 points) c/b
Ninth - Welsh Rugby Moneybox + 1 x beer - Colin Brown (28 points) c/b
Tenth - Dragon Statuette + 1 x beer - Alan Bottomley (27 points) c/b
Recipients of prize money for two's: Peter Thomas, Nigel Davies, Richard Collier, Barry Dare, Dave Palferman
17 February, 2022
Multiplier February 17th 2022. Report from Mike Healey.
Before today's result, can I remind all that the sixth and final round of the Winter League will be played next week on Tuesday 22nd February. Today we kicked out the Mexican Scramble in favour of the cancelled Multiplier from Tuesday. Weather was always going to be a consideration and it was deemed better to keep moving rather than have members hanging around until it was their turn to fire a shot. As luck would have it, we dealt with some wind, with infrequent gusts but the temperature rose and conditions were not too bad at all. 24 members were in the draw and we played three ball to keep everything ticking along. It could have been the draw but there was a mixed bag of results ranging from the not so good to three very high scoring cards of note. Alas with these numbers there were only two prizes. See result below:
Multiplier (Threeball):
First: Andy Mitchell, Mick Carnell, Les Williams 82 points
Second: Tom McGrady, Graham Bryne, Dave Jones 81 points
Third: Barry Dare, George Hughes, Damian Atkin 79 points
11 February, 2022
9x3 plus 9x2 competition February 10th 2022. Report from Steve Monk via Mike Healey
Mike Healey sent his apologies for not being part of today's competition. Steve Monk conducted affairs admirably and my thanks again go out to him. Because there were 35 of you he applied a ghost player to make up all fourballs and it would appear that we might apply this in future. The course was good and although the weather was cool there was a fair amount of sunshine for today's play. Here are the results:
"9 x 3" plus "9 x 2" Fourball Result
1st: Barry Evans, Alan Pocklington, Andrew Mitchell and Richard Collier with 114 points.
2nd: Stuart Leyland, Peter Taylor, Dave Jones and John Slater, with 112 points (countback, 48 on back 9).
3rd: Peter Bowen, Ken Tieszen, Tony Harcombe and Dave A Jones, with 112 points (countback, 46 on bac
09 February, 2022
Seniors Winter League round 5 February 8th 2022. Results from Mike Healey
Round 5 of the Senior Winter League saw some very good scoring today. The course held well after the weekend rain, all 18 holes were open and the greens, once again, were relatively quick for the start of the season. Early tining was taking place but that did not effect the scores and the weather held for us, with the mercury reaching a heady 13c. 34 members turned up for the draw and there were 6 prizes. So who produced the top scores? - read on for stableford points (league pts in brackets). Countback was required on certain scores.
Winter League - Round 5 Result:
First: Stewart Poole 46points (10pts)
Second: Mick Carnell 43 points (9pts)
Third: Andy Mitchell 42 points (8pts)
Fourth: Peter Fraser 41 points (7pts)
Fifth: Tom McGrady 40 points c/b (6pts)
Sixth: Barry Dare 40 points c/b (5pts)
Seventh: Dave Palfderman 40 points c/b (4pts)
Eighth: Richard Collier 40 points c/b (3pts)
Ninth: George Hughes 39 points (2pts)
Tenth: Alan Barnsdale 37 points c/b (1pt)
04 February, 2022
Seniors Medal Thursday February 3rd 2022
Seniors Monthly Medal Thursday February 3rd: 2022
Div 1
First Ernie Williams 43 pts.
Second Don Wraight 40 pts.
Third David Palferman 40 pts.
Div 2
First Michael Carnell 43 pts.
Second Graham Bryne 41 pts
Third Tom McGrady 37 pts
Div 3
First Leslie Williams 43 pts
Second Barry Dare 42 pts
Third Brian Beaton 40 pts
01 February, 2022
Unknown pairs result via Mike Healey February 1st 2022
Another fine Winter's morning to do golfing business. The course held very well after two days of rain and the sunshine was most welcome after a cool start. The main winner of the day was the strong, gusty wind, which made the members think about some of their shots. There were good points scores handed in but somewhat reduced compared with previous weeks. 33 seniors made the draw so we played 11 x threeballs, which made for slightly faster progress around the course. Because of the odd number, 1 player had 2 chances with different partners and 4 prizes were up for grabs overall. Essentially we played an Individual Stableford but it was added to another score giving - Unknown Pairs.
Unknown Pairs Result:
First: Tom McGrady and Nigel Davies 74 points (Combined)
Second: Peter Fraser and Graham Wright 73 points c/b (Combined)
Third: Mal Williams and Alan Pocklington 73 points c/b (Combined)
Fourth: Steve Monk and Graham Bryne 72 points (Combined)
Captains Newsletter January 2022
Captains Newsletter: January 2022
Published on 31st January 2022
Welcome to my first newsletter of 2022. It has been a fairly dry January in more ways than one! Who would have thought we would be playing 18 holes in January? I certainly cannot remember too many occasions when this happened over the past twenty odd years. I think you will all agree the course is looking really good at the moment. A reminder to all, out of respect for your fellow golfers, please repair divots on the fairways, pitch marks on the greens and rake the bunkers; it is really not that difficult!
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a member, male or female, to join the club council as the competition secretary. The current position holder, Paul Lloyd, is aiming to spend some time cycling in Italy this summer. Paul has kindly agreed to assist in setting up the competitions for the coming season. Therefore, anyone who takes on this important role will be able to have a handover with Paul before he cycles off into the distance. Anyone interested in this position please contact Paul or myself to discuss the scope of the role. While the position of competition secretary is an important one, it also provides the post holder with an introduction into the workings of the club council. As a member of the club council you will be in a position to make a positive contribution to the future development of the members section.
As mentioned in previous newsletters, the club council has been updating the club constitution. The final draft will hopefully be approved at the club council meeting in February. Once approved by council, the constitution will be published for members to view and make comments via the notice board and hopefully the club website. Details on how to submit comments or questions will be circulated at this time.
The removal of the majority of Covid-19 restrictions means we are able to hold the Captains Last Supper dinner dance. This Black-Tie event was introduced during the captaincy year of Chris (Trig) Jones and Dawn Thompson. Obviously, due to Covid restrictions we have not been able to hold this event for a couple of years. It is important that this and similar social events become embedded in the social calendar of our golf club. This event will take place on Friday 25th March. Posters in the clubhouse give full details of the event with tickets available from Haley in the bar. Included in the £25 ticket price is the usual banter, good humour, a three-course meal and a disco.
Finally, enjoy your golf while the good weather is with us. Stay safe.
Dave Palferman
Captain 2021
dpalferman@gmail.com
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