KEN LAWRENCE MEMORIAL TROPHY 2024

The Ken Lawrence Memorial Trophy was initially postponed this time last year and eventually cancelled altogether because of course closure. We have more than made up for it this year. 50 tallies went into the draw at 8.45am, including a number of our newer brethren. Just to remind everybody - all competition fees for this event are donated towards the Royal British Legion for their Poppy Day Appeal. Threeballs and Fourballs went out from the regular three tees and having a dry 18 holes, at this time of year, was the icing on the cake. From a cold start, even the sun came out mid-morning and made the effort. The course was in good condition and greenstaff have worked very hard on reducing the fallen leaves, so not too many ball searches. Given the numbers, the whole competition took a little bit longer than usual but most seniors remained for the presentation. Just before the results were announced, Mr Captain asked everyone to bow their heads following armistice lines and informed all present of the recent demise of past senior member - Lew Bush. He thanked Stuart for resolving 50 cards and then announced the top 3 scores. There wasn't to be any kitty comp prize money on this occasion as we only present to the winner. A worthy mention of the runners-up though, Richard Collier and Paul Cheetham, both returning cards with 37 points each but the winner and recipient of the Ken Lawrence Memorial Trophy (and a bottle of malt whisky) was Wyn Jenkins with 38 points. Don stepped up with his camera (David Bailey style) and not only did he shoot the presentation but the whole group as well. Of course Wyn was not the only winner, as Chris our treasurer, collected and counted the money donated and so far we have reached the sum of £391.00. There is an envelope in reception for further donations if any of our members missed the golf today and it will remain there at least until next Tuesday. When we have a final sum, a checque will be presented to a RBL representative at our AGM on Tuesday 3rd December (did you spot the plug there?). The golf was good, as was the food and banter afterwards. All in all a satisfying day all round. Pairs Bettedrball on Thursday and we start the Winter League next Tuesday. See you there.

4 BALL AND 3 BALL KITTY COMPETION RESULYS 0CTOBER 29TH 2024 FROM STUART MILES

Seniors. What looked like we were going to get very wet as we arrived this morning, it all changed as the draw was taking place, rain stopped and hazy sunshine appeared. The round was completed on a very nice Autumn day. 31 turned up this morning to play Yellow ball. 4 groups of 4 balls and 5 groups of 3 balls. Result. 4 ball. (1 prize) 1st Stewart Poole. Tony Harcombe. Stuart Leyland. Mike Hollings. 122 points. 2nd Tom McGrady. Liam Roddis. Paul Wallace-Jones. Dave. A. Jones 117 points. 3 ball (2 prizes) 1st Peter Lord. LesWilliams. Barry Dare. 112 points. 2nd Colin Evans. Wyn Jenkins. Paul Cheetham. 103 points

KITTY COMPETION RESULT OCTOBER 24TH 2024 FROM STUART MILES

eniors, Sorry for the late report, it's been an hectic day and I have only just picked up the cards from Clays for the kitty comp. Let's start with the good news, as you may have known the seniors team were away to Wrexham today in an interclub match and I am happy to report that we beat them 6 1/2 to 3 1/2. Well done to everyone, very satisfying result. Thank you to Malcolm and Tom for all their hard work in organising this match and others throughout the season. Arriving at the club for the kitty comp draw before I went to Wrexham I found a willing volunteer in Nigel Davies who said he would check the cards and sort the kitty money out for the Texas Scramble. A big thank you Nigel for stepping in and I hope you didn't get too much abuse. 26 seniors turned up and it meant 5 x 4 balls and 2 x 3 balls. Result; 4 ball's 1st Wyn Jenkins, Alan Barnsdale, Ian Ketland, Ken Hawthorn. 43.5. 2nd Jon Falcus, Graham Bryne, Tom McGrady, Peter Bowen. 43.9. (before anyone emails me, I'm not sure who won the 3 ball, I'm sure someone will let me know)

INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD OCTOBER 22ND REPORT FROM STUART MILES

Tue, 22 Oct at 15:45 Seniors. Well after the rain at the weekend and more overnight I was pleasantly surprised to find the course open this morning. But it was and thank goodness as we had a lovely sunny pleasant Autumn day. 38 seniors put their tallies up and Individual Stableford was the order of the day. With the 16th hole closed and only 13 holes open, Don and I decided to send some groups off the 5th, which seemed to work well, except having to wait for a 3 ball who had gone out before us. They weren't slow and didn't hold us up, so while the 16th is shut we may do this in future. A very good first prize was on offer for today's competition with such good numbers. Result. 1st Dave. A. Jones 27 points. c/b. 2nd Alan Barnsdale 27 points c/b. 3rd Nigel Davies 26 points. 4th George Hughes 25 points. 5th Jon Fulcus 23 points. 6th Peter Fraser 22 points. 7th Ken Tieszen 21 points c/b. Remember that Thursday the team are away at Wrexham for an inter club match. I'm playing in the match but will come to the club first to organise the Texas Scramble which is scheduled for that day. I'm looking for a volunteer to collect the cards and divy the money out and send me a quick report please. Thank you in advance. Cheers. Stuart.

TUESDAY OCTOBER 15TH 2024 KITTY COMPETION LAS VEGAS REPORT FROM STUART MILES

Seniors, despite the murky skies and threat of rain 42 seniors put their tallies up for today's competition of Las Vegas, a really good turnout. With the numbers it was decided to have 2 competitions of 6 x 4 balls and 6 x 3 balls. Now we have delays on some of the tees as the 16th hole is shut and that can't be helped at the moment. Several 3 balls skipped holes and went to the 5th to try and ease things then came back and played the holes they missed. I will look, as was suggested, at putting groups off the 5th to see if this helps, so please bear with me. As reported by Mike and myself we have had a number of senior moments the last few games but today reached new heights. I started it, there was a discussion of past winners on the honours board, I stupidly asked why 2024 was blank, well it is still 2024. There were concerns that I deal with the kitty money and should I be allowed to handle money. But the next senior moment definitely sets new standards. Checking the cards I found I had only 5 3 ball cards in but all the money for the 3 balls. With help we established who the group were and I approached them to ask who had the card only for 2 of the players, one had gone, to look at each other and said they had thought the other was marking the card, so no card. They had been stating the scores they had on each hole, but thought someone else was marking a card. I will save them embarrassment by not naming them, but this is a first, unless of course you know different. Please keep me informed of any senior moments, that's taking that you can remember them to tell me. Results; 4 ball 1st Peter Bowen, Paul Cheetham, Graham Wright, Tony Harcombe 489 points. 2nd Stuart Leyland, Chris Roseblade, John Falcus, Mike Scott 499 points. 3 ball. 1st Barry Evans, Peter Lord, Mike Mchugh, 485 points. 2nd Mike Drake, Stewart Poole, Nigel Davies 502 points. Important note from the Captain and Don regarding Thursday's medal. There is a threat of bad weather tomorrow, please check IG to check if the course is open on Thursday, if the medal is cancelled it will not be rearranged. Also check IG or the start sheet on the web site as tee times where put in 10 minute intervals and not 8 minutes. It should have been adjusted but please check. And finally there will be no bar open on Thursday, so no food or coffee. Drinks are available from the shop or coffee machines. Thank you. Stuart.

PAIRS BETTERBALL OCTOBER 3RS 2024. REPORT FROM STUART

Seniors, well after Sunday and Monday's downpour we managed to get out. What a glorious day, sunshine, pleasantly warm and no wind. Considering the rain the course was in good condition with only holes 16 and 17 closed. 32 seniors put their tallies up and the format was pairs betterball. 4 prizes with the 4th place being decided on a countback between 3 teams and 1st and 2nd place on a count back. Results; 1st Paul Cheetham / Richard Collier 34 points. c/b. 2nd Ken Burgoyne / Mark Hughes 34 points c/b. 3rd Chris Blazdell / Tony Vesty 33 points. 4th Don Wraight / Andy Mitchell 32 points. There has been some debate about the preferred lies in the rough. I will clarify this and send an email out once it has been agreed before next Tuesday. One other item Jon Falcus was presented with his voucher for his win with his partner Nigel Davies (Nigel had already received his voucher, but pointed out that I hadn't mentioned his name when doing the presentation, sorry Nigel) in a DGU competition at Llangollen, congratulations to both of them. Nigel wanted to make a speech but thankfully his request was shouted down. Weather permitting, see you next Tuesday

CLAYS PAIR WINS DGU AUTUMN MEETING. REPORT FROM ALAN POCKLINGTON The Clays pairing of Nigel Davies and Jon Falcus were the winners last Sunday at Llangollen. This was the DGU Autumn Meeting, the final DGU event of the season. They won with the magnificent total of 47 points! Congratulations to them, and also my thanks to the other Clays players who entered the event. It was very well supported with 19 Clays pairs entering. Below is the text from the DGU Web site. Alan Pocklington AUTUMN MEETING : Report and results. Thanks to everyone who attended yesterday at Vale of Llangollen Golf Club and braved the unseasonal weather, which ranged between Storm & Tempest , a Plague of Frogs and Glorious sunshine! We witnessed our largest ever field with 150 players registered but then disrupted by 7 players failing to attend and one last minute apology. Our thanks are extended to the players who help us by shuffling around and accommodating the inevitable 'tweaks' in start times on the day. RESULTS: As seems to be the 'norm' in current events, the returned scores were remarkable, bearing in mind the weather. The winners were Davies & Falcus (Clays Golf Driving Range & Golf Course) with 47 pts, winning on countback from Tweedie & Brown (Vale of Llangollen Golf Club). Subsequent places were secured by: 3rd : Evans & Waddell (Moss Valley Golf Club - MVGC Official) 46 4th : Bull & Jones (Plassey - Holiday Park, Retail Village & Golf Course) 44 5th : Pearce & Griffiths (Vale of Llangollen Golf Club) 43 12 pairs scored 42 points or more and, as required by the WHS, their cards will be returned to their home club for handicap modification . This ends our events for the year and we thank EVERY player for their support.

CLAYS SENIORS VS WREXHAM . REPORT VIA MIKE HEALEY

Seniors - I start with a quick report regarding the non-match playing seniors. I'm not sure of exact numbers (12/13) but groups went out before today's match and organised their own kitty comp. I believe Reg Whittam took the honours but the groups were a bit scattered and not all cards came back to me. Well done all for having an extra stableford comp. Today was yet another match win for Clays Seniors against other clubs. This time it was the turn of Wrexham Golf Club, who requested home and away fixtures at the start of the year. Before the golf is mentioned, I have to sing the praises of Mark and his greenkeeping staff. I believe the course was closed for a short period on Sunday due to the downpours over several days. Plenty of work went into the course to get it ship-shape and when Malcolm visited yesterday, he was told it was playable. Indeed it was and in much better condition than any of us expected. Just before the golf, Hayley arrived early for our usual coffee but we were inexplicably thin on the ground from both teams. The unknown factor was traffic problems on the by-pass. A number of players arrived slightly after the expected start time but eventually we got everybody under way. The scores came in and Clays ran out winners 7.5 against 2.5. We held our regular Ballsweep and there were a number of prizes: Jane Evans - 2's on both12th and 17th holes Neil Gledhill - 2's on both 5th and 12th holes (Wrexham previously Clays) Andrew Chisholm - 2 on the 5th hole (Wrexham) Bottles of wine from the raffle draw were won by Tony Cooke and Huwie Griffiths (both Wrexham). Excellent food from Hayley, great rivalry and banter from the Wrexham players, good golf and a good day had by all. Thanks once again to Malcolm and Tom for their organisation. The sign up is now posted for the return match on the 24th October at Wrexham GC.

INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD QUALIFIER SEPTEMBER 19TH 2024. REPORT FROM STUART MILES

Seniors, after the excitement of Tuesday's Not Quite the Ryder Cup it was back to normal today with an Individual Stableford Qualifier. 34 seniors put their tallies up and set off to enjoy the lovely Autumn sunshine, lovely day for golf. Once we managed to get our scores in IG thanks to the guys in reception for helping out the results where; Results; 1st Dave A. Jones. 34 points c/b. 2nd Dave Mole Jones 34 points c/b. 3rd Jonathan Fulcus 33 points. 4th Peter Lord 32 points. c/b. 5th Keith Hawthorn 32 points. c/b 6th Alan Bottomley 31 points. Congratulations to Dave who had a superb back 9 score of 21 points, to just pip Dave Mole on the countback. Alan, catch up with me next time I have your prize money. Just a reminder that next Tuesday there is a home match against Wrexham, best of luck to the team and here's hoping you thoroughly beat them. Anyone else wishing to play before the match needs to book at tee, last one at 8.40am. Next Thursday is a kitty comp, Mutilipler. Cheers. Stuart.

Not quite the Ryder cup report from Mike Healey

Seniors - It escapes my particular Senior mind as to who dubbed this competition "Not Quite the Ryder Cup". It is better than the actual Ryder Cup in terms of commitment, team spirit and camaraderie. I am not convinced on the golf but once again, our senior section managed to create a great atmosphere, before during and after the event. The competition is not a new concept at Clays, in fact it was being run along similar lines in the early 2000 years. As an experiment, a sign-up sheet was posted and 2022 saw 48 seniors doing battle. 2023 was the exact same copy of the previous year and indeed, the result remained the same. Yes - both years ended up being an equitable draw, even after a series of telephone calls and reserves stepping in. This year was different - 13 pairs signed up for their respective teams: Wales v Rest of the World and a further three seniors pinged in for the reserve list. My thanks go to Bev Nicholson, Russ Adamson and Peter Bowen for being on standby. Peter even turned up on the day and ended up taking the main photo on the clubhouse steps. Both teams looked resplendent in their red and blue and a number of Welsh flags were spotted on and around the course in between fairways. Signals were being made and finger calculators were being put into use for result prediction. All team communications came to a halt when, Alan Barnsdale scored his Hole-in-One on the fifth hole. The news spread fast and even got back to the clubhouse before Alan. The two captains: Barry Evans and Peter Taylor made their pair selections/order of play lists last Thursday, when the kitty comp was rained off but announcement of team selection was a hard kept secret right up until immediately after the group photo. The battle began and slowly but surely the results started to drift in. The pace was reasonable although none of us would have minded a few more minutes out in the sunshine. The prizes were lined up and prizegiving began. The occasion started with the presentation of Medal winners from September. Div One - Ernie Williams, Div Two - Tony Harcombe and Div Three - Paul Cheetham. The two team captains were presented with their Honorary bottle of wine and the result announced. For the first time ever in three years we had a winner as follows: Wales = 6 matches won and Rest of the World = 7 matches won My congratulations go to Peter and his team who proceeded to step up and receive their mini bottles of wine and a Billy Bonus Golf Ball. The clubhouse saw nearly everybody staying for the result and there was a great atmosphere all round. It was all finished off with a tot of whisky for those that wanted one, from Alan's Hole-in-One. My final thanks go to Chris Roseblade who took photos on the course and Richard Collier who photographed the prizegiving. A great day had by all - please find photos attached

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

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

HESWALL SENIORS OPEN AND OTHER FUTURE NEWS

Seniors - Firstly, my thanks go to Dave Palferman for a quick report returned from the Heswall Senior Open today, followed by notification of the forthcoming "Not Quite the Ryder Cup" competition next Tuesday. Four intrepid senior members ventured forth in what can best be described as horrendous weather; high wind, torrential rain, hailstones and the odd clap of thunder. Memories of our trip to North Wales golf came flooding back, no pun intended. The course at Heswall was presented in excellent condition with wide, well maintained fairways and beautiful looking greens. As normal players from Clays found the greens a little slow but true. We would recommend a return visit when the weather is more suited to playing golf. Unusually for a senior open, the competition was an Individual Stableford 95% off yellow tees today. It will be a more normal 4BBB next year. Unfortunately, the scores were adversely impacted by the weather: Dave Palferman 39pts Dave Mole Jones 32pts Jon Falcus 31pts Colin Brown 29pts Regards Dave P. "Not Quite the Ryder Cup" - Tuesday 17th September I have in my possession a sign-up sheet with 50 names on it, which breaks down to 26 Welsh players and 24 players for RotW. Ideally we require 2 more names for RotW or one of our Welsh players to change allegiance and we would send out a singleton match at the front of the pack. First come first serve on names to me via e-mail. We don't really wish to go beyond 52 players (already 13 tees) I am attaching a printed copy of the sign-up sheet (now in alphabetical order) for all of you to check that you are all still available. I have added today's H/Cap index by your name for selection purposes only. If it changes before Tuesday, obviously you play off your new handicap. The Team Captains will be announced tomorrow after our Las Vegas competition and pairings will be decided for a Pairs Betterball by them over the weekend. The teams/pairings will be announced immediately after our traditional photograph at 8.45am on the steps (please arrive slightly beforehand, if you wish to be on the photo). There will also be a printed copy of the draw on the handicap board outside to check. We ask that all Wales team members wear a red shirt/top and RotW team members wear a blue shirt/top. Back at the clubhouse, please return all cards to Mike and remember your usual £1.00 kitty comp fee to cover inexpensive prizes for the winners. We have two more requests: Please make every effort to remain at least long enough at the end for the prizegiving and most importantly, it would be most appreciated if you could let me know at any time over the weekend, for any reason, if you cannot play next Tuesday, so that we can balance the teams. Contact: mjhealey@talk21.com or 07716 527332 See you in the morning.

GOLF REPORT REF HAWARDEN

Seniors - Report number two for the day. Malcolm organised 16 of us to visit Harwarden GC and a splendid day we had. Like us, the greenkeepers started their ground maintenance yesterday and half of the greens had been tyned and sanded but still in reasonable condition. The remaining greens were in very good condition for putting. We recognised a number of the opposition, who were all very helpful with tips around the course and eventually Clays team ran out winners by 6 matches to 2. We experienced a couple of squals early on and the tailenders caught the last of the rain just before coming back to the clubhouse. The 2 course meal was very welcome and catering staff thanked for their service. Apart from the team result a number of players received balls in the sweep. Unfortunately, Harwarden do not recognise 2's on their fifth hole because it is deemed too short (104 yards) but the players who made a two still get a mention - Reg Peacock, Jeff Prestwich and Kev Taylor (both Harwarden). Kev also recorded a two on the second, along with Ian Dyment (both Harwarden) and Paul Wallace-Jones. Those three all received balls. Last but not least, we had the usual raffle draw for wine and lo and behold, both bottles were won by Clays players - Richard Collier and Dave A Jones. Thank you Malcolm and I believe the team sign-up sheet is now on the board for the Wrexham match on the 24th of the month.

INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD SEPTEMBER 10TH 2024 FROM STUART MILES

Seniors, with an away match 27 seniors still put their tallies up even with the prospect of rain, which we got and boy did it rain for a few minutes. With the planned course maintenance ongoing it was decided to play individual stableford and any holes that could not be played the player was to record a net par and 2 points. All but a few of us managed to play the 18 holes. Results. 1st Mike Carnell 34 points. 2nd Peter Fraser 33 points c/b. 3rd Alan Pocklington 33 points c/b. 4th Mike Drake 32 points. 5th John Falcus 31 points c/b. 6th Wyn Jenkins 31 points c/b. See you all on Thursday for Las Vegas, by which time I would have learnt the rules, rather than confusing you today like I did.

CLAYS FINALS WEEKEND REPORT VIA ALAN POCKLINGTON

FINALS WEEKEND REPORT Finals weekend was held on September 6th & 7th. It includes 11 finals from the Honours Board Knockout Competitions. The preliminary rounds started in April, so this Finals Weekend is the culmination of a lot of effort by all the finalists throughout the season. Saturday was a pleasant day weatherwise, and conditions were good. Sunday was wet, but not excessively so. There was an unconventional running order due to the fact that 2 of the finalists were playing twice on the Saturday. My thanks to Graham Davidson - Clarke and Jane Evans for doing this and thereby making it possible to complete all the matches on the weekend. The unconventional running order did not work out how I thought it might! However, everybody completed their matches in good time and in good humour. There was also a good social gathering in the bar before the matches with everyone enjoying the bacon bap and coffee provided by Hayley and Clays Council. Thanks Hayley! THE WINNERS Ladies Betterball Jane Evans and Julie Hanmer-Price Gem Trophy Adam and Mike Jones Seniors Matchplay Nigel Davies Abershield Trophy George Hughes Scratch Cup Conor Mitchell JCB Shield Jack Whitehouse Aber Rose Bowl Angela Thomas- Williams Mixed Foursomes Graham Davidson- Clarke and Jane Evans Clays Challenge Cup Andy Matthews Seniors Pairs KO Stuart Miles and Eric Thwaites Flick Cup Graham Davidson - Clarke and Paul Wallace-Jones CONGRATULATIONS to all the winners! Especially to Graham, the only double champion this season. Well done everybody. My thanks also to the runners up. It is always disappointing to lose at the last hurdle. I think that it is however a great achievement to have reached and played in the final. Thank you for your contribution to the competitions. Without you they cannot exist! My thanks also to the referees, Fred Court and Chris Jones, also Mick Mchugh, Patrick Mc Hugh, Marion Williams and everyone else who assisted with the day's organisation. Alan Pocklington Next up is Presentation Day on October 19th at 2.30. All the season's Trophies will be presented and the prize money handed out. All are welcome to attend and offer the winners and runners up their congratulations. There is a Texas scramble in the morning before the presentation. All are welcome to enter this. It's a Shotgun Start, so book your favourite tee early!!

WALES GOLF TEAM HANDICAP FINALS REPORT FROM ALAN POCKLINGTON

WG TEAM HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP FINALS On 1st September Clays Teams went to Tredegar Park Golf for the Wales Golf Team Handicap Finals. The men's team, consisting of Iqbal Shergill, Keith Hawthorne, Richard Collier and Aaron Jones were veterans of the format, having qualified via the Clays Qualifier and the subsequent DGU eliminator. The Ladies, consisting of Jane Evans, Angela Thomas-Williams, Christine Evans and Shan Stapley, went straight for the Finals. And the result? Both of our teams finished in a very creditable 4th place in their respective Finals! In an all Wales Championship Final, this is a great result by all the players. Here at Clays Golf we are very impressed! Thankyou for representing Clays so well. There were, however, two matters causing dissatisfaction. Firstly, Wales Golf had made a late switch of venue from Celtic Manor to Tredegar Park. The latter lacks the prestige of the former! Secondly, and I think more importantly, the playing condition of Tredegar Park was not good. It featured long grass on the fairways, patchy greens and areas of GUR , some surrounding the greens. This is not how a Championship course should be presented. Clays Council have sent a letter of protest to Wales Golf. A reply is awaited.......... Notwithstanding the conditions, our players went on to produce a good result Congratulations to them all, Alan Pocklington Competitions Secretary

SEPTEMBER 2024 MEDLAL RESULTS VIA MIKE HEALEY

The weather first. Cloudy all morning with a chill breeze at times - we could all have done with just a little bit of sunshine but the good news is that it remained dry. For such a large number (51 in total) the playing threeballs progressed around the course very well and the whole competition just flowed today. Before reporting any of the divisional scores and Ballsweep, we must all note a certain young man who hit a rescue club on the second tee, followed it up to the green but could not find his ball. He knew it was close but presumed it had gone through the green to the rough at the back. Eventually, it was found in the hole and we must all offer our congratulations to Ernie Williams for his hole-in-one. Whisky was placed on the bar afterwards and for those who wished to imbibe, all had a tot to celebrate Ernie's good shot/fortune. The report on twos in the Ballsweep makes very similar reading because there were no twos except a single hole-in-one, so Ernie will be a few bob better off with that result. As if a hole-in-one was not enough, Ernie continued to score well and found himself on top of Division 1. Read on for the rest of the divisional results before it becomes the Ernie Williams Roadshow 🤪: September Medal: Division 1: 1st - Ernie Williams (68) (c/b) 2nd - Jon Falcus (68) (c/b) 3rd - Reg Peacock (69) (c/b) Division 2: 1st - Tony Harcombe (70) (c/b) 2nd - Bob Jarvis (70) (c/b) 3rd - Dave A Jones (73) (c/b) Division 3: 1st - Paul Cheetham (66) 2nd - Peter Lord (73) 3rd - Les Williams (75) (c/b) Congratulations to all.

PAIRS BETTERBALL AUGUST 3RD 2024. REPORT FROM STUART MILES

Seniors, decent weather after yesterday and once the sun came out a pleasant day for golf. 36 seniors put their tallies up and pairs betterball was the order of the day. 4 prizes. Results. 1st Alan Barnsdale / Ernie Williams 44 points. 2nd Paul Wallace Jones / John Fulcus 39 points. 3rd Wyn Jenkins / Mike Drake 38 points c/b. 4th Ken Burgoyne / Colin Brown 38 points. Just a further note, Fred Court has been doing his rules questions and answers. A few more replies to the questions would be appreciated. He has also agreed that anyone who has a question on the rules, perhaps something that has come up during your round, please forward it to him. He will answer it and forward it to everyone else for their information. Thank you. Best of luck for those in the medal Thursday, see you next Tuesday for a kitty comp for those who are not involved in the away match to Harwarden. Format to be decided on numbers.

GOLF REPORT THURSDAY AUGUST 29TH 2024 FROM STUART MILES

Seniors, good afternoon and I have to say it's nice to be back playing golf after a few weeks off. Thanks to Mike , Don and others who have covered for me in my absence. Before we have today's report I have a message from Malcolm. He is 5 players short for the match away to Harwarden a week's Tuesday, if anyone can play can you please put your name on the sheet on the board or contact Malcolm or myself directly, thank you. Today's kitty comp, well after a bit of an autumn feel first thing it turned out to be a glorious day and that showed with 46 seniors putting their tallies up, most this year I think, Mike will let me know if I'm wrong. Texas scramble was the order of the day and with the number we had we had 6 x three balls and 4 x four balls. 2 prizes for each group. Result. 3 balls. 1st Andy Mitchell, Tom Blackshaw, Mike Scott. 64.7. 2nd Barry Dare, Tony Harcombe, Nigel Davies. 66.00. 4 balls. 1st John Falcus, Eric Thwaites, Tom McGrady, Peter Lord. 59.9. 2nd Don Wraight, Alan Bottomley, Pauline Peacock, Keith Hawthorn 62.2.

SENIORS GOLF AUGUST 27TH 2024, REPORT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Michael Healey Tue, 27 Aug at 17:46 Seniors - you are about to receive no less than two reports from today's endeavours. Firstly, the match against Holywell (away) was contested between sixteen members from each club and as they normally do, they arranged to play an Am/Am. They were a little disappointed in their own greens, which had some treatment a fortnight earlier and they apologised in advance. The friendship between groups has always been and will remain tip-top. The barman and kitchen staff were thanked for another excellent meal and I don't think I have ever had a bad meal there. There were two two's scored on the day and Malcolm Williams and Ian Jones both received balls - well done them. Their club random draw for a bottle of wine was won by Ram Patel (Holywell) and the overall winners (who all received a bottle of wine) were Ian Naylor, Brian Law (both Holywell), George Hughers and Mike Healey recording 82 points. The runners up were just one shot away. My thanks go to Malcolm for all of his organisation, both before and during the day. The second report arrives courtesy of Don Wraight, who organised the home draw for an Individual Stableford, played and resolved the cards at the end, before sending this report: Excellent turn out today in spite of 16 players away at Holywell, 32 players turned up at Clays this morning to play an Individual Stableford competition. The course as usual, was very good and although very windy, we all managed to get round before the rain came, which to be honest the course needed. Excellent scores with the top 6 winning prizes: 1st Mike Drake 40 pts 2nd Colin Bown 38 pts (c/b) 3rd Peter Taylor 38 pts 4th Paul Cheetham 35 pts 5th Russ Adamson 34 pts 6th Fred Court 33 pts (c/b) My thanks go to Don for his contribution today and well done all of the above winners

CLAYS SENIORS OPEN RESULT FROM MIKE HEALEY

Clays Senior Open - Where do I start? That one is easy - it has to be the thank yous. At the top of the tree comes Mike Hollings who has fronted the entire operation, kept us on our toes and organised everything that we have experienced today. I would add my thanks to all the members of the committee who have played their part in a variety of jobs throughout the day, some starting at 7.00 am and others finishing at the other end - 6.45 pm. Adding to that, my thanks go to Andy for arriving early to open everything up and allowing buggies for gazebo operations. Club Captain, Mr President and ladies from the ladies section have been present in the Halfway House throughout the day and overall, it was a great team effort. Hayley employed extra staff for the refreshments afterwards and it was a long day for them. One of my biggest thank yous goes to Mark and the Greenstaff for their magnificent work prior to the competition. The course was in excellent condition and lots of compliments were received. Finally, to the seniors who contributed to the raffle prizes, a massive thank you for your input, which raised ove £400.00 on the day and who knows, the Xmas Party could be a good one this year. Weatherwise, I believe we all expected damper weather from an earlier point in the day but it held and the fine drizzle did strengthen with heavier rain later on for the afternoon tees. It did not deter the winning teams who also seemed to arrive from the later tees. Over 100 participants took part, 54 of them being Clays Seniors. Apart from twos in the ballsweep (which are not recorded here) there were a variety of prizes alongside the major three winning prizes for points. Read on for full results: First: Graham Davidson-Clark and Jane Evans - 43 points (c/b) Second: Alan Bottomley and Mick Carnell - 43 ponts (c/b) Third: Jon and Sue Falcus - 43 points (c/b) The three cards were decided on back nine - 23, 22, and 21 consecutively. Well done all! Nearest the Pin on the 5th hole was won by Mal Hughes (Clays) Nearest the Pin in two on the 18th hole (guests only) was won by Bill Hughes (Padeswood and Buckley) Nearest the Line on the 10th hole was won by Tony Harcombe (Clays) Overall, it was a day that suited all with many going home having enjoyed their golf.

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.