9x3 plus 9x2 results AUGUST 20TH 2024 RESULTS VIA MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - You have already received my report about the Clays Senior Open and the winners were fairly late in on Thursday last week, so they in turn, received their prizes on the day. Or organiser Mike Hollings, brought along the rest of the prizes today and they were duly presented before today's results were announced. I still have an envelope for Malcolm Hughes and Mick Carnell. Malcolm Williams was also able to fill the team sheet for next Tuesday and we now have a full team to play Holywell at their place. The draw has also been made for the DJ Bogie competition this coming Thursday, Today's golf - Our latecomer was let off for his tardiness and late tally this morning because it made up the numbers to a perfect 36 members. 9 x fourballs set forth for a (9x3) plus (9x2) in fairly warm weather. Any mention of intermittent showers disappeared, as blue skies with a little cloud ruled the weather, giving us very pleasant conditions. The course remains in great condition leaving no excuse for poor scoring. There were three prizes in total today- read on for scores: (9x3) plus (9x2) Results: First: Peter Lord, Peter Taylor, Alan Pocklington and Barry Evans - 110 points Second: Don Wraight, Andy Mitchell, Graham Wright and George Hughes - 97 points Third: Fred Court, Peter Fraser, Ian Ketland and Jon Falcus - 94 points

MATCH VS ALDERSEY GREEN AT HOME PLUS INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD RESULT

Seniors - Yet another win for Clays Seniors in their match against Aldersey Green at home. I have waxed lyrical about the course condition for weeks now and it is not letting us down. We met up with the opposition for coffee, making acquaintance with both new and old friends and the golf flowed. No fewer than 18 opposition were on show today, giving us a winning score of 6.5 to 2.5. A few thank yous went out to two members who stepped in very late to accommodate the opposition - John Kelty and Ken Tieszen. Lo and behold they were both drawn out by the opposition in the raffle and both received a bottle of wine - just desserts. More thanks went to Jane Evans also for stepping in and representing the team and she ended up being the only person out of 36 who scored a two (on the second green), receiving balls in the ballsweep for her efforts - well done Jane. My final thanks went to Tom Pierce for organising everything that required organising and supporting me on the day. The food was excellent as always from Hayley and her staff. A very enjoyable day for golf, conviviality and once again without rain. We also received a message from Andy Mitch that 8 earlybirds went out for an Individual Stableford before the match: Individual Stableford Result: First: Alan Barnsdale - 36 points Second: Don Wraight - 35 points

DGU COUNTY CAPTAINS DAY AUGUST 4TH 2024

The DGU County Captains Day was held at Clays last Sunday 4th August. 25 Clays entrants set forth out of a total entry of 74 entrants. There were 6 categories of prizes with winners and runners up awards in each. That makes 12 in total. NO FEWER THAN 8 OF THE PRIZES WERE WON BY CLAYS PLAYERS! These included 4 winners - Richard Collier, County Scratch Champion - Phil Davies County 6 to 16 Champion - Nigel Davies Senior Handicap Champion - Nick Buley Captains Day Stableford Winner. Plus the 4 runners up! This is a fantastic result. My congratulations to all 8 of you. My thanks also to our other entrants for their support on this day. Many thanks as well to Wayne Harris from the DGU for his organisation on the day, to Gareth Roberts who brought the event to Clays, and to Peter Bowen for his very long stint as starter. Below is the full text from the DGU web site with all the details. Alan Pocklington Competitions Secretary DGU County Captain's Day 4th August 2024 : Results ---------------------------------------------------- This year's County Captain Gareth Roberts has passed on his and the County's thanks to Clays' G.C. management and their greens staff for hosting and presenting the course in such a fantastic condition. He had received many compliments from members of other DGU clubs. He also thanked John Hatcher and Wayne Harris for their organisation skills on what turned out to be a very long day. Also, thanks went out to both Peter Bowen and Allan Pocklington for doing the starter duties on the day. COUNTY CAPTAIN'S DAY : RESULTS County Scratch Champion - Richard Collier Clays 75 Runner Up - Ian Hall Plassey 76 County 6 to 16 Champion - Phil Davies Clays 65 Runner Up - G. Davidson Clarke Clays 69 County 17 to 28 Champion - Gavin Millington Moss 43 Runner Up - James Houston Clays 36 Senior Gross Champion - Andy O’Loughlin Denbigh 79 Runner Up - Huw Parry Denbigh 80 CPO Senior Handicap Champion - Nigel Davies Clays 69 CPO Runner Up - Dave Palferman Clays 69 CPO Captain’s Day Stableford First Prize - Nick Buley Clays 42 Second Prize - Jack Whitehouse Clays 36 CPO All Scores are Stableford Points, except for County Scratch and Seniors Gross Competition which are shown as gross score. CPO = Card Play-off NOTE: Prize Vouchers will be issued via Club Representatives as soon as possible Spot Prizes of golf balls were given on the day to the following : Nearest Pin 12th - Chris Parry MVGC/County Vice Captain. Longest Drive 14th - Arwel Hughes Denbigh GC Nearest the pin in two 18th - Ian Hall Plassey GC

ALDERSEY GREEN SENIORS OPEN AUGUST 2024

Today's Report from Aldersey Green Senior Open: Hi Mike - Another good day although quite cold and with the odd threat of rain but it did stay dry. The course was in good condition overall but most of us thought that the greens were a bit slow. With their rating and giving a 90% handicap for pairs betterball we all had more shots than we normally play off but, it was the same for all the entrants. Some excellent scores overall and our kitty competition was quite tight. On one of the par 3 holes, one of our group hit the ball about 170 yards onto the green with it never leaving the ground. He than got a 3 for 4 points. No names but his initials are MD. Well done. First place Mike Drake and Tony Harcombe with 48 points Second Dave Mole Jones and Alan Bottomley with 47 points Third Eric Thwaites and George Hughes with 46 points. Other scores ranged from 36 to 44.

RHOS ON SEA MATCH RESULT VIA MIKE HEALEY

Hi Mike - A very enjoyable day at Rhos on Sea although the weather was a bit cloudy with a chilly breeze at times. Once again the course was in excellent condition with a lot of run despite heavy rain yesterday. The greens are fantastic with the contours being the subject of much discussion at the end. As always at these events there was a wide range of scores with pairs competing for our own 3 prizes. First:.... a surprise.... (Not really.) Richard Collier and Dave Palferman 40 points (21 on back 9) Second: Ernie Williams and Andrew Mitchell 40 points (19 on back 9) Third: Vic Rogerson and Alan Barnsdale 39 points. A further six pairs recorded scores between 31 points and 38 points. Thanks to all those who played

SENIORS RESULTS AUGUST 6TH 2024, RESULTS VIA MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - Another scorcher. The sun shone, the fairways had bounce and the greens are super - what more could we ask? No fewer than 28 seniors took themselves off to the Rhos-on-Sea senior Open and low numbers were expected at home. 24 tallies were perfect until a latecomer made it 25, so we split into 3 x threeballs and 4 x fourballs for a 2 to Count. Before the kitty prizes were announced, there was a reminder about raffle prizes for our own Senior Open next week and the Senior Captain also presented the monthly slate coasters to the winners of each section for the August medal. There were only two prizes going to the winning team in each section for today but the runners-up also get a mention: Threeball - 2 to Count: First: Alan Bottomley, Barry Dare and Mike Turner - 72 points (Prize) Second: Bryn Williams, Tony Vesty and Mike Healey - 71 points Fourball - 2 to Count: First: Mark Hughes, Mike Scott, Paul Cheetham and Fred Court - 87 points (Prize) Second: Steve Graham, Barry Evans, John Kelty and Peter Lord - 85 points

GOLF RULES VIA FRED AUGUST 2024

Seniors - Second e-mail of the day. Some of our kitty comps are won by a single point on occasions (a missed putt or a missed breach of the rules). Some observations have led the committee to look into the knowledge and application of rules by our senior section. Many members are good and many are average in their knowledge of the rules. Some, quite frankly, are diabolical with certain rules and we debated how we can improve the circumstances. The "Sheriff" for the senior section has always been Fred Court and we have asked him (having rejoined the committee) to publish a series of questions and answers, so that we might all improve our knowledge of the rules, should we need to. I thank Fred in advance for his planned contributions - please find below Fred's introduction to the series: Sheriff on the Golf Rules. As a teenager my sport of choice was “Fencing” a sport with integrity. For example if a judge missed a blade contact on your target area, but you knew contact had been made, you called “touche”, acknowledgement of a possible score against you. Many of you may say I am too pedantic with the rules but to me the same integrity should apply within the game of golf and the correct interpretation of the rules. A misunderstood application in the use of a rule will give a favourable score advantage to you against the rest of the field, therefore I am asking Seniors to take a few moments from time to time to read and understand the rules and their application, in order to create a level playing field. If a fellow competitor having scored 5 on a hole asked for 4 to be recorded, I am sure there would be a review of the play on the hole and the correct score of 5 recorded, so why do so many of us believe it correct to ignore the application of a penalty for a breach in the rules, eg. a player failing to mark the ball position where a rule permits the ball may be lifted, with one caveat, the ball position shall be marked. In competition a player has two responsibilities - the first being the correct gross score for each hole is applied to his card and second, as the attester for the gross scores on the card marked for a fellow competitor. Note a gross score is the number of strokes made plus any penalty strokes that should be applied. Monthly question and answer blogs will follow. The "Sheriff" Is back

AUGUST MEDAL 2024, RESULTS VIA MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - I believe 46 of us ventured forth in yesterday's senior medal, with possibly some of us coming fifth (apologies). I thank two people for the day - firstly, Mark and crew for presenting the course in excellent condition. The fairways in general looked great and held well after some heavy overnight rain. The greens are the best I've played on locally this year. My second thanks goes to Don for organising the weather to accompany the medal draw. It makes you feel like playing everyday when we can go out in shorts and T-shirts to do battle like we did. There was no excuse for shoddy scores and some good scores were indeed returned. Before the divisional results there are a couple of twos to announce in the ballsweep. Congratulations go to Don Wraight on the 5th and Nigel Davies on the 12th - well played both. August Medal Results: Division 1: 1st - Ernie Williams (70), 2nd - Jon Falcus (71), 3rd - Eric Thwaites (71)(c/b) Dave Palferman also carded 71 but missed out on countback. Division 2: 1st - John Kelty (67), 2nd - Peter Fraser (68), 3rd - Mike Healey (73) Dave A Jones also carded 73 but missed out on countback Division 3: 1st - Steve Graham (71), 2nd - Peter Lord (73), 3rd - Paul Cheetham (73)(c/b)

YELLOW BALL TUESDAY JULY 30TH 2024, REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Michael Healey . Tue, 30 Jul at 20:53 Seniors - despite 8 regular members contesting the Senior Pairs knockout early doors, 32 further seniors threw their tallies into the bag for a Yellow Ball in the scorching heat. The course was great today, greens fast and true, the ball running on fairways and overall an enjoyable day for everyone's golf. There were two prizes only, despite the top four cards all competing closely: Yellow Ball Result: First: Ken Tieszen, Mike Griffiths, Dave A Jones and Mark Hughes - 165 points Second: Fred Court, Chris Jacques, Jon Falcus and Mike Healey - 162 points

MATCH vs HAWARDEN AND KITTY COMPETITION JULY 23RD 2024. REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY AND ANDY MITCHELL

Seniors - I received the following report from Malcolm last night but (with many grandchildren in tow) only now able to publish. Thank you Malcolm. Match v Harwarden (H) - Another really good win today for our team against Hawarden at home - 6.5 - 1.5. Nigel and I were the only losers - on the 18th! He was an excellent replacement for you with an interesting speech, as you can imagine. The course and weather were superb - the Hawarden boys were complaining that the greens were too fast! Hayley's food once again did us proud and we received numerous compliments from our visitors about the course and food. Our next match is at home to Aldersey Green on Thursday, 8th August - there are still a couple of places available. There was also a report from Andy Mitchell detailing early risers in an Individual Stableford: First: Andy Mitchell - 32 pts, Second: Tom McGrady - 30 pts, Third: Alan Pocklington - 26pts - thank you for organising Andy

MILE END MATCH FROM MIKE HEALEY

With only one tee to play from at Mile End (10.00am), we have had a think about timing and I have decided to go with a pre-draw. My grandchildren insisted on helping to make sure there was no cheating so any written complaints can go to them in triplicate and sent to their address in Prestwich. An earlyish meet is still advised for admin purposes (9.30ish/9.45ish) and for me to collect your £15.00. I am attaching yet another spreadsheet for your perusal - you will note your playing partner and tee time (you may have earned a 20 minute lie-in). I am putting buggies out first followed by Stuart Miles, who will collect kitty comp money after your game and resolve cards. If we can get away earlier, I would like the buggies ready and waiting and I have used 8 minute gaps in between tee times. It is not about rushing round but getting everbody away within the hour if possible. I also have a couple of other minor prizes to make it worthwhile for all. We have been advised that food will be served as we arrive back in groups rather than wait for 36 to appear. Thank you all for your co-operation and see you on Thursday.

SENIORS 2 DAY CHALLENGE. REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - Having missed the Two Day Challenge personally, I am a bit out of the loop, hence late report. For certain, you all had a mixed bag of weather with early starters on Tuesday seeing the rain and warm, muggy, cloudy conditions on Thursday. Despite some pools of water across some fairways from the heavy rainfall, I believe the greens were like lightning, which doesn't always suit all, but still the results came through. For the headline on this report, we must congratulate Tom Blackshaw on his magnificent score, especially on the second day. A combined 38pts with 44pts (82pts) is one of the best, if not the best score I have seen as a senior. I cannot remember any score for this competition being over 80pts in the past, so well done Tom. The runners-up were some 14pts behind on 68pts and equal second from Paul Cheetham and Richard Collier led the rest of the field. Well done to all who took part in a great field of 44 participants. I am listing the top six results for your perusal: Senior Two Day Challenge: 1st: Tom Blackshaw - 38pts and 44pts (total - 82pts) 2nd=: Paul Cheetham - 34pts and 34pts (total 68pts) 2nd=: Richard Collier - 35pts and 33 pts (total 68pts) 4th: David Palferman - 39pts and 28pts (total 67pts) 5th=: Michael Carnell - 34pts and 32pts (total 66pts) 5th=: Don Waright - 38pts and 28pts (total 66pts)

SENIORS RESULTS JULY 11TH 2024 VIA MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - I didn't play today and I thank Richard Collier for standing in at short notice. Tom did another magnificent job of organising everybody for today's home match with Northop GC. We registered a resounding 8-0 victory and possibly may consider this club for am/am fixtures in the future. The rain persisted but not uncomfortably so and nobody came in looking like bad adverts. By all accounts, all matches were convivial and Hayley's two course meal was well received. Indeed, one of the away members admitted that their players sign up early to play Clays because they like the food so much. Richard Collier was the only player to register a two (on the second hole) and was duly presented with his golf balls. The wine raffle also took place and both bottles (red and white) went to the opposition - small compensation for their match loss. All in all, a great game and great company - thank you again Tom. Reminder - the sign up for the match versus Hawarden at home on 23rd July has been posted. We are currently one player short and could always do with a couple reserves. On my arrival at the club today, 7 other seniors had booked early for an individual Stableford, which was won by Alan Barnsdale with 35 points and Wyn Jenkins arriving in second with 28 points. Remember our Open on Thursday 15th August - some members have been asking about getting partners. I am happy to put up a notice for you to sign next Tuesday and you can then pick your own partners. Other Opens - Peter Bowen is still not fit after his proceedure and is asking if anybody could take his place on Tuesday 13th August to play in the Pryors Heyes Open. Please contact Brian Beaton if you can fill this place. Last of all - following our outing to the Antrobus Open last week, Brian was presented with a free two ball visitors voucher worth £60.00. We conducted a draw on Tuesday and your Captain picked out his own number. Now I know what you are thinking?! We conducted the draw completely independently but nevertheless, I have accepted the voucher and I am conducting a blind auction between now and the end of the month. Please e-mail your bids to me and the best bid will receive the voucher. All proceeds will go to the Senior funds raised by the raffle on the day of the Open. I hope everybody believes that to be fair

SENIORS VETS TROPHY RESULTS FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors (and on this occasion) may I add Vets for this particular Trophy. I am going to start off by giving you all a huge thank you for your generosity last Thursday, following the medal. Maureen Elkin sat at the bar selling raffle tickets on behalf of Nightingale House and we contributed just over £100.00 between us. The Jean Key Charity for Nightingale House was a success the evening afterwards with 14 seniors and others taking part (this has been reported previously on ig). Jean sent me a personal e-mail the following day and asked me to thank you all - well done. Before today's golf report, dates are cropping up fast so keep checking your diaries. One important one is our very own Senior Open, which is on Thursday 15th August. The committee keep checking and there are very few golfers signed up for that date, let alone senior golfers from Clays. It is one of our biggest fund raisers of the year for the senior section so please find a partner to challenge others and do sign up as soon as possible. If you play elsewhere with golfing friends, ask them to bring friends to the Open and make a day of it socially. Remember £100.00 each for the winning pair and good prizes thereafter. We need you to rally behind the committee - your committee NEEDS YOU. Don has promised to raffle a boat - I'm not sure we saw one last time it was promised but it raised a lot of laughs, not to mention money. Get signing up!! Senior / Vets Trophy - I believe the highest age for seniors, way back in the day, started at 45 years of age and increased as the section grew bigger. When certain members reached the age of 70 years, it was decided to split the difference and add a Vets Trophy to the already played for Senior Trophy - hence the name of the competition. 44, shall we call them for today only, elder brethren, turned up for this board competition on a day forecasting horrendous conditions (that's dedication) and there were some good scores returned at the end of the day. I am not going to make an excuse of the weather for my disastrous score but it certainly didn't help. On/off showers throughout could not have helped anybody but looking at the top of the leaderboard, the top dozen scores or so did not seem to have done too badly. Most of us managed to get through the puddles that appeared but I feel obliged to report a magnificent "Barnes Wallis" style shot bouncing through the large puddle on the 11th fairway by Mike Drake. Somebody suggested "Ducks and Drakes" - I don't take responsibility for that one! We had to go into admin for dates of birth to determine who represented the Seniors and who represented the Vets so don't be embarrassed if your name appears in the latter half. There is only one trophy for each of the above but I am reporting the top three in each divide. Well done to all and I believe there might also be some twos prizes to follow when the competition is eventually closed. Senior / Vets Trophy ResultsThird: Seniors - First: Dave Palferman - 67 (c/b) (Winner of Senior Trophy) Vets - First: Reg Peacock - 69 Second: Ken Burgoyne - 67 (c/b) Second: Chris Jacques - 70 Third: Nigel Davies - 68 Third: Don Wraight - 71

DENIGHSHIRE QUALIFIER TEAM HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP AT OLD PADESWOOD JUNE 30TH 2024

Hi Derek, The Denbighshire Qualifier for the WG Team Handicap Championship was held at Old Padeswood on Sunday 30th June. The Clays 2 team consisting of Keith Hawthorne, Aaron Jones, Iqbal Shergill and Richard Collier were the worthy winners of this event. It is a stableford format with the best 3 scores out of 4 to count. Clays 2 amassed a magnificent total of 120 points - that's an average of 40 pts per player! They will now go on to represent Clays in the Finals of this event. This is held at Celtic Manor in early September. Congratulations to all 4 members of the team. It is worth mentioning that they will be joined at Celtic Manor by our Ladies Team who are competing in the Ladies version of this competition. Alan Pocklington Competitions Secretary

SENIORS MEDAL JULY 4TH 2024

Seniors Medal Thursday 4th July Division 1 1st David Mole Jones (14) 68 2nd Reg Peacock (20) 69 Division 2 1st Kenneth Burgoyne (25) 69 2nd Brian Beaton (26) 69 Division 3 1st Peter Lord (32) 73 2nd Paul Cheetham (37) 74

Jean Key Charity competition

Thank you to the thirty-three competitors who took part in this charity competition, it was a great evening. The weather was kind, and the halfway house was well stocked with delicious homemade cakes and savouries. Behind the scenes, Jean and all her supporting friends had been busy donating raffle items, making cakes, organising the competition, finalising cards and generally helping to make the event a success. The winners of this mixed competition were. Jayne Gibson 31pts, £50 voucher for the Club Shop Angela Thomas Williams 27 pts, £40 meal voucher for Pant-yr-Ochain Shan Stapley, nearest the pin on 5th, voucher for Salon 120 Hairdresser Craig Mathieson nearest the Pin on 12th, £40 meal voucher for Hickorys Top 10 results 1st Jayne Gibson 31pts 2nd Angela Thomas Williams 27 pts 3rd Kim Harcombe 25 pts 3rd Luke Steel, 25pts 5th Beverley Hood 25 pts 6th Mick Mc Hugh 23 pts 7th Tony Harcombe 23 pts 8th Shan Stapley 23 pts 9th Sue Falcus 23pts 10th Pauline Peacock 23pts There were 19 raffle prizes, and the following members have a winning ticket. Please collect your prize from reception. Sue Williams, Pauline Peacock, Hayley (Clays), Bob Jones, Ruth I, Pauline Wright, Alan Pocklington, Dave Palfreman, Mick Carnell, Jack Whitehouse, Sharon Price, Stuart Leyland, Carol Jones, Jo Morris, Jayne Gibson, Steve Monk.

HELSBY SENIORS OPEN RESULT VIA MIKE HEALEY

Seniors – busy week. I am starting this report with a big thank you to Brian Beaton for organising our day out to Helsby Golf Club today for their Senior Open. No fewer than 20 of our section made the journey over there, enjoyed bacon baps and coffee on arrival and made our way to the first tee for the serious end of our golfing day. The members there were very well organised and would have to be with every tee booked between 8.00am and 4.00pm – a lot of fourballs. The course was in superb condition, although greens were not as fast as Clays it has to be said. The weather was particularly pleasing, we all managed reasonable times for completion and retired back to the clubhouse for more food and liquid refreshment. On enquiry, there was a card from another club, returned with 48 points as we were leaving but the full results will be reported when Brian receives them. Meanwhile we conducted our own kitty comp as per usual and there were three prizes up for grabs: Helsby GC Senior Open Results: First: Dave Palferman and Richard Collier - 45 points Second: Brian Beaton and David A Jones - 44 points (c/b) Third: Alan Barnsdale and Mike Healey - 44 points (c/b) Before finishing – the countback requires an explanation! Brian stood on the 18th tee and hit an absolutely superb drive to within five feet of the flag. He then proceeded to down a magnificent putt, which not only earned him a (twos) prize in the Ball Sweep, but gained both him and Dave a four pointer, which pushed their card on countback in front of Alan and Mike. A fantastic match within a match. Well done them and an enjoyable day had by all

TEXAS SCRAMBLE JUNE 27TH 2024. REPORT VIA STUART MILES

Good afternoon Seniors. Well another pleasant day for golf, long may it continue. Thank you to my partners this morning Mike and Ken for an enjoyable game. Texas scramble was the order of the day, with 38 seniors putting their tallies up, resulting in 2 competitions of 6 x 3 balls and 5 x 4 balls. Results. 3 balls. 1st Chris Jacques, Brian Beaton and Alan Bottomley. 64.2. 2nd Alan Barnsdale, Graham Wright and Alan Pocklington. 67.4. 4 balls. 1st Andrew Mitchell, Paul Cheetham, Mike Griffiths and Bob Jarvis. 58. 2nd Fred Court, Tom Blackshaw, Dave (mole) Jones and Stewart Poole. 62. Just a couple of points. I apologize that I made a mistake with the date for Richard Keys charity afternoon. The date is Friday the 5th July. Finally Mike and I have quite a bit of prize money accumulated from previous kitty comps. Could the prize winners listed below catch up with me the next time we are at the club to claim their money, thank you. Andy Mitchell £4.00. Chris Jacques. £4.00. Alan Bottomley £4.00. Graham Wright £2.00. Reg Peacock £5.00. Mike Turner £2.00. Thank you and catch up next Tuesday for a pairs betterball

MATCH VS ALDERESY GREEN JUNE 25TH 2024

Good Afternoon Seniors - What a great day weatherwise for golf. Like most golf clubs in the country, Aldersey Green have had the exact same problems as Clays regarding weather and cutting. Also like Clays they claim to be behind in their maintenance schedule but they too have turned it round and both fairways and greens are very much up to standard. We thanked the greenkeepers on show and made it known to our playing partners in the matches. As always, the banter was good and social side as important as the result, however, the Clays team did prevail with a 6.5 to 1.5 win. All 32 players sat down to fish and chips followed by apple pie and the compliments flowed. No less than three players scored twos in the Ball Sweep: Chris Richards (Aldersey) on the 11th, Malcolm Williams (Clays) on the 11th and Derek Jones (Aldersey) on the16th. All were presented with half a dozen balls each. It was great to see the entire team in red team colours, with Don receiving a thank you for his efforts and all departed at the end with everybody looking forward to the return match on 8th August at Clays. Reminder from Malcolm: There is a sign up sheet on the noticeboard for our home game against Northop on Thursday 13th July. We are still short of players so if interested - do sign up as soon as possible. Thank you in anticipation

CAPTAINS NEWS LETTER JUNE 2024

Captain's Newsletter : June 2024 With the weather finally turning around this year the course is looking fantastic which is credit to mark and his team for all there hard work. I would like to thank everyone who played in myself and Shan’s drive in at the beginning of the month and a special thanks to those tho baked cakes and provided refreshments. Captains day is just around the corner now and as with the drive in the half way house will be with refreshments for a charity donation, we will also have nearest the pin on the 12th for men and 5th for women. I will also be hosting a ‘beat the captain competition on the 5th where you will be able to win 10% off vouchers for the shop. Competitions Its has been a busy month for competitions with the honours board competitions well and truly underway. Well done to Michael McHugh for winning the captains drive in, Gaz Davis for winning the Tom and Kathleen trophy, Andy Mathews for winning the Tommy Davies cup. I would also like to congratulate Jane Evans and the Ping mixed doubles team for progressing into the next round of that. Lady’s report The Captains’ Drive In, postponed from April was held on June 1st, when the weather was kind, and all holes of the course were looking good. After a nerve-wracking wait and a superb drive from Captain Patrick, it was my turn and thankfully the ball went down the middle. After that we enjoyed the game and especially enjoyed the opening of the new halfway house and the selection of homemade cakes donated by Pauline and Angela. Eight ladies played, although there were more well-wishers for the drive off. Angela Thomas Williams won with Jane Evans as runner up. The first pairs WG qualifier, Australian Spoons had three official entries, but some ladies also played the same format.Julie Hanmer Price and Shan Stapley were the winning pair with 36 pts and will go through to the Welsh final in Holyhead in September. Just when we thought summer had arrived, another storm took its place and May’s Stableford qualifier was cancelled. However, the following week we held the qualifier for the R & A Coronation foursomes, the pairing of Julie and Shan won with 29 pts and are going to the next heat in Hazel Grove in August. On June 5th the sun was shining, and 13 players took part in the Stableford competition, which was won by Hazel Bell 30pts and runner up Lady Vice with 29 pts. Our first home match of the season took place on June 7th, weather was good, and the visitors were very complimentary on the condition of the course. All matches were very close,and we halved the match overall with 2 ½ points. Clays team were, Angela Thomas Williams, Bev Hood, Sue Falcus, Christine Evans and Shan Stapley. The following week the same team were in action again against Mold at Mold. Again,very close matches played in beautiful weather but sadly this time we lost 4 and 1. The Ping mixed team of Jane Evans, Bev Hood, Richard Collier, Christine Evans and Jack Whitehouse had a very close match against Porthmadog 2 at St Melyd. At the culmination of all matches, it was all square, this meant the winning team would be decided on a sudden death basis! Jane and Graham took on the challenge and won the match on the 20th hole. Clays will go on to play St Melyd at Mold next month. On June 12th the ladies held their first Honours Board comp of the season, the Powells Jewellers trophy. Eleven players took part, one pair on the alternate day. Winning the trophy was Jane Evans 72 nett, Angela Thomas Williams 75 nett. One of our social golfers, Jean Key is holding a 13-hole Stableford competition on 5th July between 3.30 and 5.30 in aid of Nightingale house, £5 entry and lots of super prizes along with home made goodies in the halfway house. Tee time booking open now on IG. Shan Stapley, Lady Captain Lastly We are still looking for a Safeguarding /Welfare Officer. This is an important position so if any members are interested, or if you know of anyone who would be interested in this role please get in touch with myself or any member of the council. Please be aware as it’s getting very busy out on the course over the next few months, please avoid slow play. Kind regards Patrick McHugh

MEMORIAL TROPHY JUNE 19TH 2024.VIA STUART MILES

Seniors. what a turn out, 47 members put their tally's up for what is one of our most important days of the year. Bonus being the excellent weather that we were blessed with. A few thanks first, Don for his hard work in posting pictures on each tee of our late friends, for me personally it brought back memories of all the people whose pictures were on the tees, thank you Don. Thank you to our captain for his well chosen words and pause for thoughts for those who are no longer with us. Thank you to Paul Wallace-Jones for organising the 2's and congratulations to John Kelty who had the only 2 of the day on the 12th and finally to Fred who helped me with the draw this morning. Results. 1st Malcolm Hughes 39 points. 2nd Eric Thwaites 37 points. 3rd Keith Hawthorn 36 points c/b. 4th Mike Carnell 36 points c/b. 5th Reg Peacock 36 c/b. 6th Les Williams 35 points. 7th Dave "Mole" Jones 35 points c/b. Mike Healey 35 points c/b. Congratulations to Malcolm who is the winner of the Memorial Trophy with a superb score and playing of 8 today. A couple of housekeeping notes. Firstly, Don has asked me to tell anyone who has ordered the polo shirts and not collected them today they are in reception ready for collection. Thanks again to Don for organising these; they are superb and well worth the money. Secondly, one of our members and past captain Richard Keys, who passed away is to be remembered in a charity golf match on Friday the 15th July. The event has been organised by his widow Jean Key and starts at 3.30. Money raised will be donated to Nightingale House. Thirdly; We have an exchange day with Mile End golf club on the 25th July. Those wishing to take up this offer will you, please sign the sheet which will be on the notice. Fourthly we have an away game on Tuesday the 25th June at Aldersey, best of luck to the team, to those not participating we will have a normal kitty comp. Finally we send best wishes for a speedy recovery and recuperation to Peter Bowen and Mike Hollings. Regards. Stuart.

PAIRS BETTERBALL JUNE 18TH 2024. REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - we're coming out of the woodwork! No fewer than 21 seniors went to Vicars Cross GC for their senior Open this morning and a further 27 members turned out for the tally draw on home turf. Today's competition was Pairs Betterball and Mike Griffiths drew the lucky number for two bites of the cherry with different partners. The weather was cooler than yesterday but benign throughout and pleasant to play in. Most cards returned were around the average par scores with countback required just below the top scorers. Read on for the four winning teams: Pairs Betterball Results: First: Ken Burgoyne and Peter Lord - 43 points Second: Chris Blazdell and Ian Ketland - 39 points Third: Wyn Jenkins and Tom Blackshaw - 38 points Fourth: Tony Harcombe and Alan Pocklinghton - 37 points (c/b) Tom McGrady and Ken Tieszen (also on 37 points) missed out on countback and last prize. Notices: 1 - There will be a later report from Vicars Cross and a note about handicaps. 2 - On Thursday we are playing in the Memorial Trophy. It is a roll up and tally draw/kitty comp. as usual but it is also set up as a qualifier on ig. Please enter your scores into the system before handing your cards in. 3 - Advance notice - On Thursday 25th July there is going to be an exchange day with Mile End. Your golf will be free when you arrive but we need to commit to a £15.00 two-course meal afterwards and approximately 30 of the opposition will be arriving here for the same deal. The sign up will be posted this Thursday on the noticeboard.

VICARS CROSS OPEN RESULTS FROM BRIAN BEATON

First a big thank you to Stewart Poole, Andy MacDougall and Peter Taylor who filled in for members who were unable to play today. For most of the 20 Clays seniors this was a first time at Vicars Cross. We were faced with quite a difficult course, in excellent condition although the greens were a bit slower than Clays. There were many big ditches, some blind shots and they certainly made some decisions vey interesting. Overall, the scoring was pretty good with the lowest pair on 33 points. Results in the kitty prizes. 1st Mike Drake and Steve Monk 42 points 2nd Richard Collier and Dave Palferman 41 points 3rd Brian Beaton and Dave A. Jones 38 points There were some high scores on the leaderboard when we left with still a number of players waiting to start their rounds. The organisers said that they will e mail me with results and I will forward any prize winner information if we have anyone included. The course was well rated by everyone and I have had lots of requests to book again next year. Next up is Helsby on Wednesday 26th June. I also have a vacancy for Aldersey Green on Wednesday 7th August. If anyone is able to play please let me know Regards Brian

DEVON TRIP NEWS 2024. REPORT FROM STUART MILES

Good afternoon Seniors. Just a quick report on this year's Devon trip. 15 guys went on the trip and although much colder than last year, teeing off in 10 degrees was more like a November day than June, extra layers were the order of the day, although shorts were sported by many, tough guys. The weather for the first 3 days did brighten up eventually. We completed the 4 days of competition on Thursday, although in strong winds but rain for only 3 holes before the promised storm hit the area, fortunately all were in before the gales and heavy rain arrived. I, as always, enjoyed the week and the company and have booked us in for next year already. Details of next year are noted below. Results. Ramnee Trophy; Best accumulative stableford points over the 4 competition days. 1st Dave Nicholson 142 points. 2nd Alan Pocklington 138 points. 3rd Tony Vesty 135 points. Forrest Chaless. Lowest net strokes on any of the 4 competition days. Winner. Nev Bassett net 71. 28 My Ar**e Trophy. For the most 4 pointers or better over the 4 competition days. Alan Pocklington with 13. Congratulations to all the winners and a reminder the trophies will be presented at this year's Christmas Dinner. With regard to next year's trip I can confirm that it has been officially booked for Sunday the 15th June to Friday 20th June 2025. The cost is £418.76p per person based on 2 sharing a twin room plus £10.00 kitty money. This includes golf on the Sunday on the par 3 18 hole course, 4 rounds of golf Monday to Friday on the 4 different 18 hole courses for the main trophies and a further 18 holes on Friday for a social game for those who wish. The price includes 5 nights full board. The only things to pay for are the buggies, probably £16.00 per person next year and your beer / wine. The price includes a 20% discount (15% for repeat booking and 5% for a group of 12 or more. Sadly I only have 13 people who have indicated they wish to attend next year (all who went this year with a couple of exceptions) and have received no replies to my emails from a few weeks ago from other people. I accept that there are a lot of the guys who used to be regulars who have got to an age where they say they don't wish to go anymore and that is understandable, but there are a lot of younger seniors and I ask you to consider what I regard as a very enjoyable and reasonably priced golf week. I have provisionally booked for 20 next year. So long as we have a minimum of 12 to get the group discount I will organise next year's trip, but will consider what we do in future years. This year's trip included 5 guests and only 10 clays seniors. Although we have always welcomed guests if there is space, and some of the guests have been going for a number of years and have helped fill the spaces when people have dropped out, or numbers have been low it is primarily a Clays Seniors event and I would like the vast majority to be Clays Seniors. I shall be grateful to those wishing to go, to send me a deposit of £100.00 via bank transfer to A/C Name Mr. Stuart H. Miles. Number 45019260, Sort Code 30-99-95. I shall be grateful for payment by Friday 12th July as we have to pay the deposit within one month to get the full 15% repeat discount. Cheques can be sent to me at Brambles Cottage, Pen-Y-Lan, Nr Ruabon. Wrexham LL13. 6HW. I hope to hear from you. Any problems / queries / questions please email me or text / phone me on 07747041200.

LATEST CLAYS SENIORS RESULTS JUNE 13TH 2024 FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - Perfect numbers today for our Individual Stableford, 24 in total entered the tally draw. Andy in reception managed to turn our kitty comp into a qualifier, which we have all agreed is the way forward (at least 3 times a month). The weather remained warm throughout and although greying over and odd spots, the rain held off until after we had finished the round. The course was in good condition and the greens getting ever faster, leaving some with problems over their putting. I believe there were a couple of twos here and there but alas we did not run a ballsweep today. Still we prevailed and the results are as follows: Individual Stableford Results: First: Reg Peacock - 37 points Second: Chris Blazdell - 36 points Third: Richard Collier - 35 points Fourth: John Falcus: - 33 points (c/b) Fifth: Bob Jarvis - 33 points (c/b) Along with today's prize money, Mike Hollings turned up with his monthly medal inscribed coasters, which were won by: Div. One: Ernie Williams Div. Two: Reg Peacock Div. Three: Bob Jarvis Devon Results so far: "From your Devon correspondent". 10 Clay's seniors and 5 guests are away in what was last year sunny Devon. I'm afraid this year the first 3 days were more like November. Teeing off with the temperature barely touching 10 degrees. Today, Wednesday, has changed and we played in sunshine and a pleasant 15 degrees and no wind, last day tomorrow looks like a complete change and waterproofs will be the order of the day. Competitive as ever, results for the first 4 days: 18 hole par 3: 1st Mark Waddy 2nd Stuart Miles. Monday: Alan Pocklington 44 points. 2nd Dave Nicholson 38 points. Tuesday: Dave Nicholson 36 points. 2nd Stuart Miles 33 points. Wednesday: Dave Nicholson 38 points. Alan Pocklington 36 points. Final round tomorrow for the main trophy. I have to mention the leader in the "28 my ar*e Trophy" is Alan with an amazing 11 four pointers, I think he can claim that particular prize.

CLAYS SENIORS REPORT JUNE 11TH FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - where do I start? Stuart Miles has gone off to Devon with twelve seniors to play at the Ashbury GC course down there and I am assured of results as they plough through the week. Twelve seniors signed up for early door golf this morning - eleven of whom took part in an individual Stableford. The results were courtesy of Andy Mitchell. Individual Stableford Results; First: Tom McGrady (36 pts) Second: Ken Burgoyne (34 pts) Third: Keith Hawthorn (29 pts) Meanwhile - sixteen Clays seniors played for the team in a match against Holywell GC and we even had Jon Falcus turning out for the opposition (and winning to boot!!) The weather held despite cool temperatures early on and eventually the sunshine broke through. Alas, it was not all roses and I am obliged to report that Clays were runners up by 2 games to six. The opposition came prepared this time but we will be ready in August for the replay. The opposing players thought our course was in great condition, especially the greens and to a player, they all raved about the two course meal provided by Hayley after the golf. There was a ballsweep and no fewer than three twos were scored - all by Holywell players (Rob Hulse, Brian Furnell and Cliff Edwards). Mark Smale (Holywell Chairman) thanked all for our hospitality and Dave Hughes (Holywell Senior Captain) offered a reciprocal fixture in the future. The whole afternoon was completed with a raffle draw for wine and the two bottles were won by Mick McHugh and Nigel Davies (both Past Captains at Clays). I will finish with a big thank you to Tom Pierce who stepped in for Malcolm with all the organisation on the day.

CLAYS MATCH VS NORTHOP. AWAY REPORT VIA MIKE HEALEY

Northop were extremely welcoming and the weather was OK (terrible for June really!) We won the match 6-2 although there were some close finishes. We then enjoyed a two course meal with our hosts and look forward to welcoming them in July. Malcolm is otherwise engaged tomorrow but Tom Pierce is boss for our home match versus Holywell. Malcolm wishes us all well and for those who are playing, I am looking forward to continuing our great run of wins.

GOLF REPORT RECENT REPORTS FROM MIKE HEALEY. JUNE 10TH 2024

Tuesday 4th June (Stuart Miles Report) Seniors. Considering we had 16 members at an away match, 4 players playing their knockout match and six in Scotland on a golfing holiday, we still had 22 seniors who turned up for this morning's golf. Says something about our seniors’ section, when we still have this number for a kitty comp. With one eye on the weather forecast, which was all doom and gloom for mid-morning, we decided to alter the competition to an individual stableford to hopefully speed things up and avoid a soaking. Well, you would be better hanging a piece of seaweed out the window as other than three short showers, the weather was fine. Five prizes were available. Individual Stableford Results; First. Tom Blackshaw 37 points. Second. Graham Wright 36 points. Third. Alan Barnsdale 35 points c/b. Fourth. Peter Lord 35 points c/b. Five. Alan Bottomley 34 points. Thursday 6th June June Monthly Medal Div 1: 1st - Ernie Williams (72 c/b) 2nd - Richard Collier (72 c/b) 3rd - David Mole Jones (74) Div 2: 1st - Reg Peacock (74 c/b) 2nd - Sean McCarthy (74 c/b) 3rd - Chris Blazdell (75) Div 3: 1st - Bob Jarvis (71) 2nd - Peter Lord (76) 3rd - Vic Rogerson (77) There were no twos scored in the ballsweep

PERIL BALL COMPETITION RESULT FROM MIKDE HEALEY

The kitty competition was a little down on numbers today, largely because at least a dozen seniors were out on the course contesting their knockout rounds. It mattered not - 23 members played in today's Peril Ball (with one fourball carrying a ghost player). So what is Peril Ball? - It would appear, a bit like Marmite - some liked the format and others didn't but the majority carried the day and it will remain in the calendar. A bit like Yellow Ball but stiffer penalties and a chance for the team to redeem itself over the last two holes. The forecast rain did not materialise after teeing at 9.00am and sunny, but very windy conditions prevailed. We worked out that 108 points would be par for today's format but only one fourball managed to pass that figure. Read on for the two prize winning groups: Peril Ball Result: First: Barry Evans, Ken Tieszen, Bob Brown and Alan Pocklington - 111 points Second: Brian Beaton, Tom McGrady, Mike Turner and Mick Carnell - 99 points (2 other groups made mid-nineties) Well done to all who took part and it might run again later in the year. Information: Next week there is a match away at Northop on Tuesday and all team members playing should have received an e-mail from Malcolm. There will likely be somewhere between 12 and 20 more seniors back at Clays for a kitty comp. (to be decided) which Stewart is running. Thursday is the June medal and most of the entries have already been placed in ig. Don is completing the draw tomorrow (Friday) so if you wish to be play and haven't yet entered, please do so asap. Both days next week - Hayley is in Majorca all week, leaving Mark junior in charge, so there will only be sandwiches, pies, pasties and drinks available. Sign up sheets - tally board Tuesday and reception Thursday. All enjoy the week - make sure the team beats Northop and good luck to all entering the medal.

WELSH GREENSOMES QUALIFIER MAY 28TH 2024. REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - The postponed practice round scheduled for today became the Qualifier for the finals in September at Holyhead Golf Club. We have simply run out of dates to fit in any more events that might end up being postponed. Apart from being a qualifier, we had extra pairings playing the same format and all were included in a kitty competition. The qualifiers had their handicaps checked and all players were given their set number of strokes from the handicap ruling - 60% of lowest handicap and 40% of highest handicap combined. The draw was then made from three different tees and set times. All of this was posted just after 8 o'clock this morning. I have to report that I am somewhat disappointed that we had four no-shows on the day, throwing the draw at that point into total disarray, after all of the organisation that had gone on beforehand. The very least that the organisers might expect is a courtesy phone call regarding illness and I believe there are numerous contact numbers, least of all in reception at Clays. It is particularly important when you have already signed up for events, either on the board or through ig. The competition - 7 extra seniors showed up ad hoc and were slotted into pairings quite easily but that was expected to happen. Fortunately two pairings teamed up, but not until they had started playing. Can I thank both of those pairs for sensible golf thinking and all other participants who took on different partners to enter the competition. 4 pairs simply entered the kitty competition and a further 11 pairs threw their hats into the qualifier (15 pairs in total). We set off in drizzle but it would appear that nobody received a soaking and short sleeves were on show towards the end, with the temperature reaching 19 degs. The scoring was not as high as expected but there were some worthy winners. The winners below will go on to represent Clays at Holyhead GC on Thursday 5th September and we wish them all the best in the finals. The second pairing become first reserves for the same event and must make provision in their diaries. Welsh Greensomes: First: Andy Mitchell and David Mole Jones - 38 points (Qualifiers for finals in September) Second: Alan Pocklington and Peter Lord - 36 points (Reserves) Third: Damian Atkin and Stewart Poole - 34 points (c/b) Fourth: Alan Barnsdale and Mike Healey - 34 points (c/b)

SENIORS OPEN LLANDUDNO RESULT COURTESY OF DON WRAIGHT

The following report came in from the Senior Open in Llandudno, courtesy of Don Wraight: 12 brave souls drove in awful conditions to North Wales Golf Club in Llandudno today. Wind and driving rain met us at the course but the officials were adamant that the competition would go ahead, even with three holes closed. (Shades of Maesddu cancelling a couple of years ago!) Off we set but by the 8th/9th holes, four groups called it a day, sodden. A further group gave up on the 10th hole after a golf trolley had broken, leaving the remaining, totally mad, pairing from Clays to soldier on. One of them even played in shorts and they returned a card with 27 points on it. Well done Damian Atkin and Jon Falcus. I hope they all managed to dry out quickly, warm up with hot chocolate and return home safely. At least they got a modicum of golf. Well done guys.

CAPTAINS NEWSLETTER MAY 2024

Captain's Newsletter: May 2024 Lady captain Shan Stapley and I would like to welcome all members new and old to our first newsletter. firstly I would like to thank the outgoing captains Sue and Micheal for there great work over the past year, on the theme of great work I would also like to say a huge thankyou to Mark and all of the green staff and also volunteers who have worked tirelessly once the weather has permitted to get the white tees back out and the course in a fantastic shape so quickly after the terribly wet winter we have all endured. Competitions finally the white tees are back out and competition are coming thick and fast, the first honours board trophy of the year was won by Kev Scaife with a Nett 6. The May medal was won by Alan Barnsdale with a Nett 66. the Welsh team handicap championships qualifiers have also been held so congratulations to those who have qualified to play in that. The first DGU match of the year is being held away at Denbigh on the 19th of May so good luck to the team. there are many more great competitions coming up over the next few months so keep an eye out on IG and get booked in and support the club. Ladies report May I thank Mark and his team, with a little help from Seniors too, for managing to open all 18 holes for the start of our May competitions. For the Ladies it was a big shock playing 18 rather than our comfortable winter rounds of 13 holes. Nine ladies joined the first competition on May 1st, and many were shocked with a reduction of shots following the new regulations. Congratulations go to Bev Hood, 34 pts with Gill Williams and Angela Thomas williams with 29 pts. Gill taking runner up spot on countback. The following Wednesday, saw the first medal of the year, those who took part only played preferred lies on fairways so that this competition could be a qualifier. Eight ladies signed up in beautiful weather, but the competition was tough and slow going. Congratulations to Bev Hood, 76 nett with runner up Angela Thomas Williams, 80 nett. Jane Evans was the only lady to enter the medal on Saturday 4th May coming in with an impressive 71 nett. On Friday May 3rd, Pauline Peacock, Lizzie Hart, Bev Hood, Shan Stapley and Gill Williams represented Clays Ladies in our first NWLCS match of the year. It was away in St Deiniol, Bangor, the views were spectacular the course in excellent condition, although very challenging. The flag was rarely seen from the tee box and often rocky outcrops, beautiful gorse bushes and steep sided inclines, both up and down added to the drama. Clays ladies tried hard but lost 3 1/2 to 1 1/2. Angela Thomas Williams and Jane Evans continued their campaign in the Daily Mail Foursomes Ladies Competition beating Chester, however in the last competition against Plassey they lost on the 18th hole. I would like to thank Jane and Angela for representing Clays in such a tough national competition. Another big thank you to our hardworking President and former Captain Mick who have transformed the area for the new Portaloo. The area has been flattened, tidied up, fenced and painted, with a new toilet installed at the beginning of May. A code for the lock will be shared with lady members and members who may need to use it because of medical reasons. The providers will clean and replenish supplies weekly. And finally from me… I would like to echo what is said in the Lady captains report and say a big thank you to Trig and Micheal for there hard work around the new toilet area. And most of all enjoy your golf! Kind Regards, Patrick McHugh

INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD RESULTS VIA MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - Before today's result - 4 bits of information. Firstly, it was my pleasure today to present the May divisional medal winners with inscribed coasters (brilliantly manufactured by Mike Hollings). Div. 1 - Dave Palferman, Div. 2 - Tony Harcombe and Div. 3 - Paul Cheetham. Secondly, members have been asking about the senior red polo shirts for matches. Don has put an advert sheet up on the board and is taking orders for said items (£15.00 each - see Don). Malcolm is now short of one player for the match against Northop (away) Tuesday 4th June. Please get in touch with him if you are interested in playing. There has been some confusion over the forthcoming Welsh Greensomes - It will be played next Tuesday - 28th May and it will be run as a kitty comp in conjunction with the qualifier for the final in September. It will no longer be a practice round! If you wish to contest this competition, each pair must pay the Welsh fee of £5.00 and must be available to represent the club on Thursday 5th September at Holyhead Golf Club. If you only wish to play in the Greensomes for kitty comp purposes, that is also fine but you will play behind the qualifiers - normal £1.00 contribution. Today's competition - No fewer than 38 seniors turned up today for an Individual Stableford competition. The intention was to make it a qualifier and they WILL be arriving any day soon. Unfortunately the bunkers were all GUR, which put the brakes on the planning. Still, the course was in good condition and the weather warm and pleasant - what more could we ask for? Despite the high number of participants for the kitty comp, there were also other groups out for senior knockout rounds both individual and pairs. Good luck to all players in those competitions. There were 7 winners today - all with very good scores at the top and involving countback: Individual Stableford Results: First: Andy Mitchell - 38 points (c/b) Second: Peter Lord - 38 points (c/b) Third: Peter Taylor - 38 points (c/b) Fourth: Dave Mole Jones - 37 points Fifth: Bob Jarvis - 36 points Sixth: Richard Collier - 35 points (c/b) Seventh: Alan Barnsdale - 35 points (c/b)

POST FROM STUART MILES

Seniors, as much as I have missed your company and the golf the last few weeks, I think looking at the state of those who played in the kitty comp coming in, other than the 2 ball who got in before the monsoon and those who played in the knockout's, I will wait till a sunny day, if there are going to be any. With 12 players out playing their knockout competitions there were still 22 seniors who put their tallies up for the kitty comp of pairs better ball. A big thankyou to Fred who organised the draw. Before I list the results a couple of items I've been asked to bring to your attention. Firstly Malcolm has asked to say there are places available for the inter club match on the 11th June at home to Holywell. If you are available please put your name on the sheet on the notice board or see Tom who is in charge of this match. The other item is regarding polo shirts, Don has sourced a supplier, the shirts are in red and are available in all the usual sizes. The shirt will have Clays Golf Club, with Seniors below this embroidered on the shirt. The price is a very reasonable £15.00. Don will put a list up on the notice board, if you're interested could you please put your name down together with your size required by the 30th May and give Don your £15.00. Thank you. Today's results, once I managed to dry the cards out and check them before they disintegrated. 1st Peter Taylor / Barry Evans 38 points. 2nd Paul Cheetham / Eric Thwaites 37 points. 3rd Dave. A. Jones. / Mike Turner 32 points. Hope everyone has dried out. Cheers Stuart

GEMINI TROPHY RESULTS FROM MIKE HEALEY. MAY 14TH 2025

The Gemini Trophy has come round once again! A unique competition in that two medal scores are added together - there are not many of those about. There was a lot of rain on Sunday, continuous overnight rain on Monday and a half expectation that there might be hole closures. It wasn't the case as the course held up very well. There were odd small pools here and there, the traditionally wetter holes held up also and preferred lies were the saviour on the day. All that said, the forecast rain on the day did not materialize and short sleeves came out in the warmth. Scoring was not as good as in previous years and there was only a single two recorded in the ballsweep by Richard Collier on the fifth hole. (He very nearly added a second on the 12th but we are not reporting that one.) Well done to everybody taking part, especially the pairs involved in a veritable battle at the top of the final scores. All results finalised in ig but read on for the top three winning scores: Gemini Trophy Result: First: Ernie Williams and Paul Wallace - Jones - 142 nett (c/b) Second: David Mole Jones and Andrew Mitchell - 142 nett (c/b) Third: Mick McHugh and Chris Trig Jones - 146 nett

Old Padeswood match and Arscott results via Mike Healey

Personally, I have thoroughly enjoyed a brilliant day in our match against local rivals Old Padeswood. We played an am/am at their place a couple of weeks ago but this time we played matchplay with our eight pairs. The result was an overwhelming win to Clays - 8-0 and all credit to the home team. I have to say that the teams getting on with each other so well, we could be considering am/am fixtures in the future. The course is looking so much better and the weather was a generous 21 degs, so what more could we ask from an inter-club match or even just a game of golf. All arrived back in good time and enjoyed refreshments in the sun before ascending for the two course meal that was arranged upstairs. Thank you to Hayley for an excellent meal and a big thank you to Malcolm for the entire organisation of the event. There were no twos recorded and the raffle ticket draw for wine bottles went to Peter Fraser and Jim Fenn (Captain of the OP). The opposition could not believe that we had 16 players to oppose them as well as 24 members out at Arscott for their Senior Open. I asked for the latter results to add to this report and right on cue, Tony Harcobe rang them in. The Clays results are below but the full Arscott positions are still to come. All in all a great day all round. Arscott Results: First: Richard Collier and Dave Palferman - 43 points Second: Daian Atkin andErnie Williams - 39 points (c/b) Third:Mike Hollings and Eric Thwaites - 39 points (c/b) I have already reported the Clays kitty comp. winners from the Senior Arscott Open last Thursday but the final positions have since arrived via Brian Beaton and it would appear that Richard Collier and Dave Palferman were second overall, so well done to them. Dave A Jones also won a prize for Nearest the Tiger Line and there were 11 players in total, scoring twos in the ballsweep, of which three of them belonged to Clays: Alan Bottomley on the 1st, Mike Jordan on the 3rd and Richard Collier on the 17th. Congratulations to all our winners on the day and a good day had by all it has been reported.

TANGO AND MEDAL RESULT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - I am starting with a quick report about last week's medal. The result is in ig for all to see but it is good to see one's name in lights as we don't all have the ig app. May Medal Result: Division 1: David Palferman - 37 points, Ernie Williams - 34 points, Andy Mitchell - 33 points. Division 2: Tony Harcombe - 28 points, Stuart Leyland - 27 points (c/b), Barry Dare - 27 points (c/b). Division 3: Paul Cheetham - 41 points, Peter taylor - 31 points, Alan Pocklington - 30 points. Well done all competitors. Before today's result, a few reminders - Malcolm has posted the starting line up for our match with Old Padeswood at home on Thursday. If you cannot make it, do let him know (we have reserves). He has also posted sign up sheets for the forthcoming matches versus Northop and Holywell. Do sign up on the noticeboard if you wish to play in these matches. Good luck to the 24 seniors who travel to Arscott this Thursday for their senior Open - we hope you all play well. Next Tuesday is scheduled for our Gemini Trophy - this is played in pairs, as the name suggests and you need to enter via the ig app. Don will most likely make the draw towards the end of this week. Finally, there is a sign up sheet on the noticeboard for the Welsh Greensomes pairs. The qualifier will take place next month but we are having a practice round beforehand (Tuesday 28th May). Today's golf - Tango. Some members were confused by the name, probably because we have rarely played this before. 1,2,3 and 4 to count - very simple. 36 seniors were in the hat and again with three tees to start from, all got away relatively spritely. The pace however, was not too great today and the later groups were somewhat tardy. We are still on preferred lies in the general area and the greens probably need a little more work before coming up to scratch. All in all, the course has shown a vast improvement and it was a pleasant day for a round of golf. Teams of four contested three prizes: Tango Result: First: Andy itchell, Brian Beaton, Tom Blackshaw and Tony Vesty - 90 points Second: Mike Hollings, Peter Taylor, Paul Cheetham and Graham Wright - 85 points Third: Mike Drake Keith Hawthorn, Steve Monk and Graham Bryne - 84 points (Quite a bit of prize money was uncollected - safe in kitty box!)

9x3 plus 9x2. April 30th 2024, Report via Mike Healey.

Today's Results - 36 seniors (another perfect number) arrived for today's kitty comp (9 x 3) plus (9 x 2). We were all pleased with the course being fully open, tiring as it was and also warned about greenstaff working on sanding the greens, following tining. It was great to get 3 starting tees back in the frame and at the end of the day there was very little hold up. All 9 groups arrived back in the clubhouse in reasonable time with 4 of the 9 cards returning good scores over 90 points. We all remained dry and returned for the 3 prizes on offer - read on for winners: (9 x 3) plus (9 x 2) Results: First: Reg Peacock, Chris Blazdell, Peter Taylor and Tom Blackshaw - 96 points Second: Don Wraight, Nigel Davies, Alan Barnsdale and Mike Parks - 93 points Third: Steve Graham, Wyn Jenkins, Mike Drake and Ian Ketland - 92 points Sadly the fourth group with 91 points just missed out on prizes.

PAIRS BOTH SCORES TO COUNT. APRIL 25TH 2024. REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - Are we finally moving into some summer golf? The sound of gang mowers across the fairways, dry conditions to play on and despite the early shower, enough warmth to finish off the round. 36 seniors popped their tallies on the board and we played a Pairs competition with both to count. The scoring at the top became very competitive with countback being required for the four prizes, as well as a good many middle to lower scores. Before announcing the four prize winners, a reminder that we are still a few names short for the match v Old Padeswood at home on 9th May (remember 20+ are already committed to the Arscott Open that day). Also another thank you to the fourteen seniors who brought their rakes and cleared both the 1st and 7th fairways yesterday. Your efforts have been most appreciated by everybody. There was some good scoring overall - read on for today's results: Pairs - Both to Count: First: Tom Blackshaw and Ernie Williams - 56 points (c/b) Second: Alan Barnsdale and Mike Drake - 56 points (c/b) Third: Andy Mitchell and Bob Brown - 52 points (c/b) Fourth: Steve Graham and Keith Hawthorn - 52 points (c/b)

Bonus Ball APRIL 25TH 2024, REPORT FROM Mike Healey

Seniors - The organiser lost his rag today with a series of 20p's and 50p's arriving in the kitty, but the discovery of a euro in the mix brought on the apoplexy. Let us just leave it at £1.00 coins would be most appreciated or change your coppers at reception, behind the bar or at the Co-op before arrival. 38 seniors turned up for a Bonus Ball competition so it was necessary to employ two ghost players to make up numbers to 10 x fourballs. The track was playing a lot drier and although we still employed preferred lies in the general area, we dropped the leaves, long grass, winter ruling. Overnight rain appeared to do no damage and it was even warm enough for jackets and jumpers to come off. 130 points was the expected par and five other teams were around the 120 mark. Read on for the three prize winners: Bonus Ball Result: First: Mike Hollings, Ernie Williams, Mick Carnell and Alan Barnsdale - 130 points Second: Paul Cheatham, Steve Monk, Colin Brown and Graham Wright - 123 points Third: Graham Bryne, Richard Collier, Ian Ketland and Paul Wallace Jones - 121 points Quite a number of you have agreed to come down in the morning ( 9.00am start ) for a session of grass clearance. Don't forget your grass rakes - there are a number of spares just in case. The aim is to clear as much cut grass as we can in two hours. Mark is briefing me at 8.45am but I think it is just a question of rake where you can and wherever you see piles of grass, especially up the 1st and 16th in particular. I have ordered coffee for just after 11.00am and Hayley will do breakfast baps if anybody wants them. See you tomorrow and a thank you in anticipation.

INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD APRIL 18TH 2024. REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - We cancelled the medal previously for non-qualifying reasons but still had a magnificent turn-out of 42 members this morning (something to do with sunshine?). The kitty comp calendar has been all over the place with closures so we opted for an Individual Stableford to get everybody out into the sun. The new handicaps threw a lot of us a curve ball but it was resolved through the tables in ig and following a conversation with Josh afterwards, he has now printed out a full competition table which we can refer to in the future. Further explanation next Tuesday. The course is once again drying in the wind and sunshine but it was still necessary to employ the winter rules that have prevailed since the beginning of November. There were a lot of cards around the 24/25 pts mark but there could only be 7 winners today with some countback required - read down for results: Individual Stableford Results: First: Bob Jarvis 29 points (c/b) Second: Chris Blazdell 29 points (c/b) Third: Peter Taylor 28 points Fourth: Alan Barnsdale 27 points (c/b Fifth: Peter Fraser 27 points (c/b) Sixth: Keith Hawthorn 27 points (c/b) Seventh: Jon Falcus 26 points

PAIRS BETTERBALL RESULT. APRIL 16TH 2024 FROM STUART MILES

Seniors, at last on the course and decent weather, is the weather turning around ?. 30 seniors placed their tallies up for a change of format from texas scramble to pairs better ball, a number agreed with so little golf played, playing as many shots as possible was a better option. Thanks goes to Steve Monk for doing the cards and giving out the money while Stuart was in the committee meeting. Result. 1st Wyn Jenkins / Peter Lord 29 points (back 9 countback of 15) 2nd Peter Taylor / Alan Barnsdale 29 points (back 9 countback 13) 3rd Reg Peacock / Tony Vesty 28 points. 4th John Falcus / Alan Pocklington. 27 points. Let's hope the weather stays fine till Thursday (and about 8 weeks more) so we can get out on the course again. With the calendar in disarray due to the weather and the cancellation of the medal Thursday's format is to be decided. One other thing Don has asked me to say is that there are slots vacant for the dgu match at Denbigh on Sunday 21st April, tee times at 15.20 and 15.29. If you are interested can you please contact Don.Seniors - Following Stuart's report here is a little general info - mostly dates. From Malcolm: Match v Northop (9th April) – postponed (bad weather). Now Tuesday 4th June v Northop (A). Match v Old Padeswood (19th April) still on at present. Am Am competition at their request. Match v Wrexham (16th May) – postponed by Wrexham (fixture clash). Now Tuesday 24th September(H). Next scheduled match v Old Padeswood (H) (Thursday 9th May) Sign up is now on the board but be aware that this match clashes with the Arscott Senior Open. From Club Captain: Captain's Drive-in postponed. Now on Saturday 1st June. Job Vacancy - there is a vacancy for the post of Safeguarding Officer at Clays. See any of the Club Captains or Josh regarding the post. Reminder that we have reciprocal arrangements with the following clubs: Eastham, Northop, Old Padeswood and Withington. Josh has more information and you will need to ring first before playing these courses. Finally - Tom has asked me to inform all regarding his change of e-mail address: jeanpierce00@outlook.com Mike H

PUTTING COMPETITION APRIL 11TH 2024. RESULTS FROM STUART MILES

Ladies and Gentlemen, the sun may be shining but not enough or long enough yet to let us out on the golf course. Some of us have seen the photographs taken by Mark and it's not pretty, bunkers full to the brim and ditches that he has never seen with any water are full. So we can only bear with it, Mark is fighting nature and sadly nature is winning at the moment, he and his team are trying their best when able and we understand that. So another day of putting and thanks to Paul's chipping mat, chipping competition. At least with the chipping we managed to set it up outside and get some sunshine and fresh air. Thanks to Tom for collecting the money and our esteemed Captain for helping me run the competitions. The putting course was reversed today and it was fine once we got started and stopped good old Barry from going the normal way and meeting everyone head on. Results: Putting Competition; !st Stan Roberts 29 putts. 2nd Mick Carnell. 30 putts. Obstacle Putting; Colin Brown ( after a 3 way play off). Chipping; Tom McGrady. 15 points. Excellent sarnies and coffee from Hayley as always finished the morning off. Even though the weather looks good for the next few days it is doubtful if it will be long enough to help the condition of the course. So unless you hear otherwise via ig, email or the website it looks like another day of putting and chipping on Tuesday. See you all then. Regards. Stuart

Seniors putting competition April 9th 2024. Report from Stuart Miles

Gentlemen, another day of indoor putting, will this weather ever change. 12 seniors turned up and the usual format resulted in Putting Competition; 1st Mike Carnell. 2nd Tom McGrady. Both with 31 Mike winning on play off Obstacle Putting; Stuart Miles. Longest Putt; Tom McGrady. All retiring to the bar after for the usual delicious baps and coffee. Advanced notice that almost certainly the course will be closed on Thursday so unless a heat wave arrives, indoor putting and if the weather is calmer chipping, with a start a 9.00am. Malcom also asked to let you know that the postponed game against Northrop away has been rearranged for the 4th June, sheet will go up as usual.

Putting competition results April 4th 2024 from Stuart Miles

Well Gentlemen another morning where the weather had the final say and another day of putting although with the added chipping competition, with thanks to Paul for providing his new chipping mat, which added something new to the rainy day programme. Putting Results. 1st. Barry Evans 63. (definitely a course record, well done Barry) 2nd Richard Collier 68. 3rd equal. Mick Carnell. Stan Roberts. 69. Pitching Results. 1st Paul Wallkace-Jones 30 points. 2nd Alan Bottemley 25 points. 3rd Richard Collier 20 points. Let's hope the weather improves before next Tuesday. There is a match away to Northop so a number of the regulars will be away, the kitty competition for the rest of us will be decided on the day depending on numbers. Cheers. Stuart

Putting competition result April 2nd 2024. Report from Stuart Miles

Well gentlemen yet another lost day to the weather. The only consolation, other than Hayleys lovely sarnies, was the putting competition was held outside on the putting green in lovely sunshine, everyone looking towards the course thinking will we ever get back on it. Anyway 4 circuits and longest putt were the order of the day results. 1st Richard Collier. 2nd Peter Taylor. 3rd Colin Brown. Longest putt after a play off. Chris Blazdell.

PUTTING COMPETITION RESULTS FROM STUART MILES . THURSDAY MARCH 28TH 2024

Well another day of no golf, but 9 seniors turned up for the alternative indoor putting. Usual format with the winners as follows. 4 rounds of normal course; 1st Mick Carnell with an excellent 40 putts. 2nd Barry Evans. Longest putt. Stuart Miles. Obstacle Putt. Eric Thwaites. All retired to the bar for coffee and Hayleys lovely sarnies and convivial conversation with Barry keeping us amused with one of his tales as an insurance rep. Just a clarification for Tuesday's Peril Ball. One person raised a good point regarding the definition of lost ball. May be other rules but my understanding and the way we will play it on Tuesday is as follows: For example, the yellow ball holder sends his tee shot out of bounds to the left down the road on the third. He can play 3 off the tee but his score entered on the scorecard (if he scores )is only what he scores with the penalty stroke and NOT DOUBLE. Also when it comes to his turn for the yellow ball again he can score but cannot double his score, he has lost that right by losing his ball for the rest of the game. Also when the player has the yellow ball but loses the right to double his score, his score has to go on the card together with one other person, you cannot use someone else's score which could be higher than the person who has the yellow ball at the time. We will still be playing the long grass rule, so if the yellow ball holder sends it into the long stuff, then the usual rule of agreeing where it landed and playing another with no loss of shot will apply. Hope this clarifies the game a bit more, any other queries we will sort out Tuesday. Here's hoping to see you all Tuesday with decent weather and a dryish course, could our Captain please bring back some sunshine with him

Waltz competition March 26th 2024. Results via Stuart Miles

Good afternoon Gentlemen, a pleasant morning out with decent weather and no rain. 37 seniors put their tallies up and the Tango also became a Waltz, with 7 4 balls and 3 3 balls. Results as follows. Waltz, one prize, winners were, Peter Lord, Peter Thomas, Peter Fraser. 59 points. Tango, 2 prizes. First, Andy Mitchell, Stephen Graham, Chris Blazdell, Mike Carnell with 71 points. Second, Don Wraight, Dave (Mole) Jones, Mike Griffiths, Malcolm Hughes with 70 points.

WINTER LEAGUE FINAL RESULTS VIA MIKE HEALEY

Michael Healey Tue, 19 Mar at 19:15 Seniors - we did it and did it in style. Given the persistent inclement weather we have been experiencing, nobody thought we would get through 6 rounds of our Winter League this year but we have persevered, remained flexible on dates and lo and behold, today we completed the set. No fewer than 39 members turned out for the final round and there was even a hint of shirt sleeves towards the end. There was a definite feeling of spring around and we are all keeping our fingers crossed for our postponed St David's Day Trophy on Thursday. There was quite a bit of count back at the top as you will see. The final Winter League Table will be posted on the board Thursday but here are today's scores and winners. There were seven prizes in total as well as League points: Senior Winter League - Round 6 Results: First: Bob Jarvis 32 points (10 WL pts) Prize Second: Jon Falcus 30 points (9WL pts) Prize Third: Alan Barnsdale 29 points (8 WL pts) Prize Fourth: Stuart Miles 28 points (7 WL pts) Prize Fifth: George Hughes 26 points (c/b) (6 WL pts) Prize Sixth: Don Wraight 26 points (c/b) (5 WL pts) Prize Seventh: Barry Dare 26 points (c/b) (4 WL pts) Prize Eighth: Peter Taylor 26 points (c/b) (3 WL pts) Ninth: Wyn Jenkins 26 points (c/b) (2 WL pts) Tenth: Alan Bottomley 26 points (c/b) (1 WL pt) Bob Jarvis kept up the challenge with his scores, taking third place overall with 32 WL points. Alan Barnsdale took part and scored well in all six rounds, achieving 38 WL points. Our winner overall, had already made himself unassailable after 5 rounds but added more points today, achieving a total of 45 WL points. The winner of the Senior Winter League Trophy is Peter Taylor. Well done Peter.

SENIORS MEDAL STABLEFORD MARCH 7TH 2024

1st Alan Barnsdale(16) 29 2nd Alan Bottomley(17) 29 3rd Robert Jarvis(28) 28 4th Damian Atkin(19) 27 5th Gary Campbell(22) 27 6th Richard Collier(11) 26 7th Michael Hollings(26) 26 7th Michael Carnell(20) 26 9th Brian Cross(24) 25 10th Don Wraight(14) 25 11th Peter Lord(33) 25 12th Peter Taylor(42) 25 13th Ernie Williams(20) 25 14th Reg Peacock(23) 25 15th David Mole Jones(14) 25 16th Peter Michael Thomas(24) 24 17th Graham Bryne(24) 22 18th Stuart Leyland(28) 22 19th Keith Hawthorn(20) 22 20th Steve Monk(29) 21 21st Alan Pocklington(34) 21 22nd Barry Dare(26) 21 23rd George Hughes(29) 21 24th Mike Healey(26) 20 25th Chris Blazdell(26) 20 26th Malcolm Williams(21) 20 27th Stewart Poole(22) 20 28th Ken Tieszen(32) 19 29th Tom McGrady(25) 19 30th Tony Harcombe(25) 19 31st Peter Fraser(28) 19 32nd Andrew Mitchell(19) 19 33rd Leslie Williams(32) 18 34th Ian Ketland(32) 17 35th Peter Bowen(32) 17 36th Barry Evans(42)

WINTER LEAGUE ROUND FIVE RESULTS FROM MIKE HEALEY MARCH 5TH 2024

Seniors - a misty, murky morning with a promise of sunshine. The rays came through eventually adding to a pleasant morning of golf. Our highest number to date in 2024 - 39 tallies were thrown into the bag and we set off in our groups for Round 5 of the senior Winter League. One unfortunate participant had to retire because of a ride-on failure but the rest battled it out in good finishing time. There was lots of count back on the cards for Stuart to sort out but he coped with it admirably. As usual, there were 10 league points up for grabs and 7 kitty competition prizes. I am attaching the up-to-date spreadsheet with results from all five rounds thus far and the astute observers amongst you will note that a certain member finds himself in an unassailable position going into Round 6 in a fortnight's time. Well done Peter. Winter League - Round 5 First: Peter Taylor - 36 points (10 WL pts) Prize Second: Dave Mole Jones - 30 points (9 WL pts) Prize Third: Peter Lord - 29 points (c/b) (8 WL pts) Prize Fourth: Bob Jarvis - 29 points (c/b) (7 WL pts) Prize Fifth: Nigel Davies - 29 points (c/b) (6 WL pts) Prize Sixth: Alan Pocklington - 28 points (c/b) (5 WL pts) Prize Seventh: Alan Barnsdale - 28 points (c/b) (4 WL pts) Prize Eighth: Paul Wallace-Jones - 28 points (c/b) (3 WL pts) Ninth: Mick Carnell - 27 points (c/b) (2 WL pts) Tenth: Wyn Jenkins - 27 points (c/b) (1 WL pt)

YELLOW BALL REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY FEBRUARY 29TH 2024

I am starting hesitantly by saying the weather might have changed. We certainly had no rain and although the temperature gauge was one short of double figures, a round yellow object appeared, from time to time, amongst the clouds. 36 seniors placed their tallies in the bag for a Yellow Ball competition and 9 x fourballs set off to the tees. There was some discussion regarding further openings of the remaining five holes but it is obvious where the problem lies when they are inspected thoroughly. 13 holes was enough to satisfy our competitive edge and the challenge was on. Pressure was experienced by all yellow ball holders, some more than others but overall, an enjoyable morning's golf. Three teams carded 115 points but alas only one of them was eligible for a prize due to count back. Read on for winning three teams: Yellow Ball Result: First: Dave Mole Jones, Chris Blazdell, Damien Atkin and Peter Taylor - 137 points Second: Alan Pocklington, Graham Bryne, Steve Graham and Peter Lord - 123 points Third: Stuart Miles, Alan Bottomley, Bob Jarvis and Dave A Jones - 115 points (c/b)

PUTTING SESSION FEBRUARY 29TH 2024. REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - I have once again travelled back home across the River Dee at Holt and I swear that the water level has not dropped since 31st October. With the whole of our November and December senior golf being wiped out, we have managed to date, 8 competitions in 2024, including 4 x Winter League. Today somebody mentioned 20 x putting sessions and he was spot on. Today we played our 20th indoor session but at least it was in yet another format. I believe it is the first time in golfing history that any Ryder Cup event, anywhere, has been decided on putting alone. Another first for Clays senior section. 18 members went into the bag and the first out tallies (Captains) were asked to choose team names. Barry Evans led from the front of his team (Geriatrics) and Peter Taylor captained his team (Tigers) and said he would sort his team's handicaps out. The first two circuits involved Pairs Betterball matchplay and league points recorded. It was then a free for all in singles matchplay to round off the competition. The two teams could not have been any closer until, on the very last putt of the day, the entire competition was hanging and won with one shot. The player asked modestly not to be named (initials MH). A fitting end to a keen but sporting competition. Well done to all who took part. Ryder Cup Winning Team: Peter Taylor, Stewart Poole, Stan Roberts, Bob Brown, Richard Collier, Eric Thwaites, Mike Hollings, Ken Tieszen and Mike Healey Reminders: 18 of us retired to meet other members for refreshments and decisions over the calendar. Looking ahead at next week weatherwise, we are not yet out of this depression. Rather than have an on-off situation, the Nearly St David's Day Trophy has been postponed and moved to Thursday 21st March. 2 apologies: - I reported initially that this event is a tally draw which is incorrect. 43 have already signed up and Don takes those names for a pre-draw, which will be posted in advance of the event (hopefully we will have the 16th tee back in play by then). The 2nd apology is those of you who cannot make the renewed date. Kindly take your name off the sheet if you are now unavailable. If the course is open next Thursday, a kitty comp will be inserted

CAPTAINS NEWSLLETER FEBRUARY 2024

Captain's Newsletter: February 2024 Captains’ Newsletter February 2024 Since my last newsletter we have played precious little golf due to the continual wet weather, thus a very short report. We did however manage to get a few games played, thankfully the February medal went ahead which was won by Darran Edwards with 32 points, in 2nd place Jack Whitehouse with 31 points and in 3rd place Michael McHugh with 27 points. We are all hoping for better weather so that Mark and his team can get the machinery out cutting again and to get all 18 holes playable as soon as possible. A big thanks to the seniors who volunteer to clear up the debris on the course caused by resent stormy weather. The seniors are continuing to make the best of the bad weather by turning out on Tuesdays and Thursdays in large numbers to take part in some indoor putting competitions on the days where the course is closed organised by Mike Heeley with bacon baps, coffees and a bit of banter afterwords, well done Mike . the golfing season will be getting under way in just over a month’s time so don’t forget to book into as many competitions as you can . Ladies Captain, s Report The Ladies Section in January were fortunate to have been able to play some 9 hole kitty competitions, however this has not been possible due to bad weather in February. Those who were able to play enjoyed the team competitions and the opportunity to get together socially after the round. On the occasions when the course has been closed some members met at the Range for practice. I think it is fair to say that everyone is looking forward to fairer weather and the opportunity to get out and play some golf! In planning for the forthcoming season we have a number of teams entered at a range of ‘Opens’ in the coming months. I would like to remind everyone of our own Club Competitions and to sign up for our Honours Board Competitions, Ping team applications etc. Please refer to the entry forms for the deadline dates. This year Angela Thomas Williams and Jayne Gibson have entered The Daily Mail competition so we wish them luck. We are looking forward to our overnight trip away in late March to play at Nefyn and Abersoch Golf Clubs, which will be a great preseason start for us all! Can I ask that you encourage Lady Golfers from other Clubs to sign up for our reinstated Ladies Open on July 17th. This proved last year to be very successful with lots of very positive comments from all participants. On behalf of the Ladies Section I would like to thank the Seniors Section for the huge effort undertaken by many of them to help clear debris from the course after recent stormy weather, it certainly made a difference on the course and aided Mark and his team to move forward in their maintenance programme. For those of us playing our Texas Scramble that day, despite the added pressure of an audience to keep us focussed, we enjoyed the jovial banter! Thank you. As you know, our Halfway House is now completed and looks fantastic with the dedication in its construction lead by our President Chris Jones and Captain Mick McHugh. We are now in process of acquiring folding tables and stacking chairs to ensure it is ready for use in the pending season. Dates for your diary, Friday March 22nd The Captains’ Last Supper dance, 2 course meal and dancing to a live band The Cheese cutters. Some tickets are still available and can be purchased from Hayley. Saturday March 23rd Club AGM. The agenda for the meeting has been circulated so please try and attend. Sue Falcus (lady captain). And finally from me… Just a few weeks to go before the Captains last supper on 22nd of March so if you have not got your tickets yet please do so asap . The AGM will be held on Saturday afternoon 23rd of March it would be nice to see as many members as possible in attendance. A reminder when we do get out on the course please keep all trollies behind the white lines around the greens, rake bunkers replace divots and repair pitch marks. So until next time enjoy your golf, fingers crossed the weather will get a bit dryer soon Kind Regards, Michael McHugh (Club Captain)

PAIRS BETTERBALL FEBRUARY 27TH 2024. REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - Our highest turnout in the New Year so far. 38 seniors posted their tallies today for a Pairs Betterball (first of the season). The only rain encountered was a short heavy burst while we were all inside completing the morning's draw. The brollies went up but came down almost immediately and we remained dry throughout. The course is drying still and our greenkeepers are working really hard on both holes 16 and 17 as I am reporting. Today, two groups went out as 3 balls with a middle player getting two bites of the cherry. All came back in good time for refreshment. Cards were reasonable with some countback required and the four prizes were distributed as follows: Pairs Betterball: First: Peter Thomas and Steve Graham - 32 points Second: Reg Peacock and Steve Monk - 31 points Third: Andy Mitchell and Peter Taylor - 29 points (c/b) Fourth: Bob Jarvis and Mick Carnell - 29 points (c/b) Reminder: The postponed St David's Day Trophy is now being held on Thursday 21st March and there will be a kitty comp this coming Thursday instead. Next week - Tuesday - Winter League 5 and Thursday - March Medal. March calendars to follow!

SENIORS GOLF REPORT 22/2/2024 FROM MIKE HEALEY

I have once again travelled back home across the River Dee at Holt and I swear that the water level has not dropped since 31st October. With the whole of our November and December senior golf being wiped out, we have managed to date, 8 competitions in 2024, including 4 x Winter League. Today somebody mentioned 20 x putting sessions and he was spot on. Today we played our 20th indoor session but at least it was in yet another format. I believe it is the first time in golfing history that any Ryder Cup event, anywhere, has been decided on putting alone. Another first for Clays senior section. 18 members went into the bag and the first out tallies (Captains) were asked to choose team names. Barry Evans led from the front of his team (Geriatrics) and Peter Taylor captained his team (Tigers) and said he would sort his team's handicaps out. The first two circuits involved Pairs Betterball matchplay and league points recorded. It was then a free for all in singles matchplay to round off the competition. The two teams could not have been any closer until, on the very last putt of the day, the entire competition was hanging and won with one shot. The player asked modestly not to be named (initials MH). A fitting end to a keen but sporting competition. Well done to all who took part. Ryder Cup Winning Team: Peter Taylor, Stewart Poole, Stan Roberts, Bob Brown, Richard Collier, Eric Thwaites, Mike Hollings, Ken Tieszen and Mike Healey Reminders: 18 of us retired to meet other members for refreshments and decisions over the calendar. Looking ahead at next week weatherwise, we are not yet out of this depression. Rather than have an on-off situation, the Nearly St David's Day Trophy has been postponed and moved to Thursday 21st March. 2 apologies: - I reported initially that this event is a tally draw which is incorrect. 43 have already signed up and Don takes those names for a pre-draw, which will be posted in advance of the event (hopefully we will have the 16th tee back in play by then). The 2nd apology is those of you who cannot make the renewed date. Kindly take your name off the sheet if you are now unavailable. If the course is open next Thursday, a kitty comp will be inserted.

BETTERBALL COMPETION PLUS OTHER SENIORS NEW FEBRUARY 15TH 2024. FROM MIKE HEALEY

Short and sweet today. 12 of us paired up in the putting for a Betterball competition, which was completed in reverse to the normal indoor set-up. Following three rounds and after a three hole play off, Mick Carnell and Tony Harcombe finished runners up to Malcolm Williams and Stuart Leyland, who took the main prize. With time to kill we proceeded with a Dogleg arrangement and Tom McGrady picked up the spoils there. Last but not least, we finished as per with a long putt competition. There were some early close markers until Mick Carnell dropped a hole-in-one. With all modesty, the very last putt of the morning followed into the hole by none other than your section captain and the prize was split honourably. All retired for refreshments, prize-giving and great banter all round. Some reminders: We are not re-scheduling today's comp., so the medal will not appear in February. Winter League Round 4 - next Tuesday 20th and St David's Day Event on Thursday 29th. This is a tally draw start but you need to sign up on the board for numbers and catering purposes. Don't forget Senior Knockout entry sheets to Don or reception (don't forget to include entry fees). If you are entering, Club Competition Knockout entry sheets need to be returned to Alan Pocklington or reception with fees. If you are interested in mixed comps, the Ping Pairs sheets are also out for entry. Tickets for the Captain's Last Supper (Mick McHugh/Sue Falcus) on Friday 22nd March are currently on sale through Hayley - get them while you can. The club AGM is the day after (Saturday 23rd March) and several club council posts will need filling. We currently require a secretary imminently! Peter Bowen as Handicap Secretary is running for one more year, as is Alan Pocklington as Club Competition Secretary. Both are giving notice in advance of retiring next year, so that if anybody is interested in following on, they might be trained up through 2024. If interested in any of the three above posts, talk to a member of the committee or have yourself proposed and seconded on the nomination sheet in the foyer. Finally - The topic of golf insurance was discussed at Club Council on Tuesday and we were re-assured that the club is covered for a lot generally but it is vitally important that individuals are covered for their own personal liability.

SENIORS MULIPLIER FEBRUARY 13TH 2024 REPORT VIA MIKE MEALEY

Today's competition was a Multiplier and we did what is says on the tin. The two best scores multiplied throughout and there were two outrageous scores of 16 on the very first hole but neither of those teams were in the winner's circle. There were 33 seniors (11 x threeballs) heading out to multiple tees and all arrived back to the clubhouse in good time. We were lucky with the weather, although it did try to rain on a couple of occasions but we mostly stayed dry throughout. There were three prizes in total at the end. Multiplier Results: First: Andy Mitchell, Wynn Jenkins and Bob Jarvis Second: Colin Brown, Ken Tieszen and Ernie Williams Third: Alan Bottomley, Paul Cheetham and Chris Blazdell

SENIORS GOLF REPORT FEB 8TH 2024. REPORT VIA MIKE HEALEY VIA STUART MILES

shortest report ever. 14 members attended this morning but 10 of us were committee members convening for a meeting. Alas the putting competitions are waning and I can't blame anyone for not showing. The snow has not materialised as this report goes out but the rain came in on schedule and is likely to be with us for some time. On that note, the February medal, re-scheduled for next Thursday 15th is now under threat. I believe Don is making the draw but with reservations on the date. Don also asked me to add that any senior knockout entry forms can be left with reception. He has always asked that they go direct to him in the past but with course closures, he would like a back-up for any further entries coming his way. I will keep all informed about competitions or otherwise next week. Mike H Today's result: Report from Stuart Miles - A hardy 5 seniors or those who didn't fancy shopping, or venturing out in the cold turned up for the now all too regular putting competition. Results: 3 circuit Putting - Mick Carnell Longest Putt - Stuart Miles.

INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD FEBRUARY 6TH 2024, REPORT VIA MIKE HEALEY

We've had a wet day (you haven't heard that for a while!) The forecast was originally horrendous for 10.00am and 18 seniors set off in light rain, becoming heavier as they played, however, the horrendous did not really arrive until after they had all finished. That is the good news. The bad news is it has come down in buckets since and the putting green was like a swimming pool before I left. With the water table remaining high and poor forecast for the rest of today and Thursday, we all need to be aware of possible closure - decision by 8.00am on Thursday morning. 6 x threeballs set off for an Individual Stableford, fought their way through the rain and damp conditions and there were still 6 cards on par or above (some with countback). There were 4 prizes today and all kitty comp. money paid out before 1.00pm. Right on cue, Tony Jackson arrived for a "long-drive competition with friends" but he was steered instead, towards the dining area by Mike Turner, just in time to have Happy Birthday sung to him by the troops. I'm sure he won't mind me telling you that he was celebrating his 80th birthday and his daughter Helen made all the arrangements and payment for the seniors to have a breakfast bap in his honour. Naturally his birthday cake was also divided between us and there was a sense of party about the place during his birthday breakfast celebration. All seniors were grateful and applauded Helen in her absence. I have a feeling the long-drive competition didn't materialise! Today's results: Individual Stableford: First: Tom McGrady 31 points Second: Peter Taylor 29 points Third: Graham Bryne 27 points (c/b) Fourth: George Hughes 27 points (c/b) Steve Graham also carded 27 points but missed out on countback

COURSE CLEARING UPDATE

There was no Churchillian speech before the course clearing, but there was a huge thank you from me on behalf of Mark Jones at the end. Mark and the greenstaff were extremely grateful for the work completed across the course. No fewer than 18 seniors arrived at the agreed time, armed with their grass rakes and posed for a picture before the briefing took place. At the outset, Mark listed the areas across the course that required clearing and the troops set off to both sides of the road. The plan was to rake and create piles of sticks and branches that had fallen, following the gales. This worked out perfectly when the greenkeepers followed us up with their brand new trailer, collecting the piles along the way. Apologies to the group on the clubhouse side who missed out on the 10.00am mini-break. Workers on the far side received a chockie bar for energy and a wee dram to warm the cockles. The working clock stopped after two hours and everybody retired back to the clubhouse for a well-deserved coffee and some breakfast baps. I am very grateful to Mr Club Captain, Mick McHugh who was responsible for all photos and also very adept at selfies. Mark asked me to tell everybody that our two hour's work would have taken the greenstaff the best part of a week to complete the same task. I believe everybody was satisfied with what we achieved and what is more, we have left an improvement around the course for the entire membership

SENIORS WINTER LEAGUE ROUND 3. RESULTS FROM MIKE MEALEY

Seniors - a chilly but bright morning, which invited no fewer than 35 members to take part in Round 3 of our Winter League. Comments were passed on the debris clearing from the previous day and despite hole closures and further cutting being required in places, the course is looking to get into shape. Back to the stableford competition - overall, the scoring was better than the first two rounds and the jockeying for positions was tight at the top. There were 7 prizes on offer - read on for results: Winter League - Round 3 Results: First: Wyn Jenkins 30 points (10WL pts) Prize Second: Ernie Williams 29 points (c/b) (9WL pts) Prize Third: Stan Roberts 29 points (c/b) (8WL pts) Prize Fourth: Brian Beaton 27 points (c/b) (7WL pts) Prize Fifth: Mike Healey 27 points (c/b) (6WL pts) Prize Sixth: Peter Taylor 27 points (c/b) (5WL pts) Prize Seventh: Andy Mitchell 26 points (c/b) (4WL pts) Prize Eighth: Mick McHugh 26 points (c/b) (3WL pts) Ninth: Reg Peacock 25 points (2WL pts) Tenth: Alan Barnsdale 24 points (c/b with three others) (1WL pt)