Malcolm Jordain and Ben Lynch
Captain’s Day at Exeter G&CC is an excellent venue for such a day, practice facilities particularly good with an excellent short game area available. The squash bar providing excellent casual dining and refreshment area and in the evening the Duckworth Suite perfect for a hundred or more diners.
Lew Easter and myself arriving at 7.15 to discover Roy Smith, Captain Ben Lynch and Vice Brian Rice already there preparing for the day. It’s an enjoyable experience running the reception desk on the day, greeting old and new members to the day. In total 104 players on the day, proving Exeter to be a popular venue. Brian Rice had checked out from the start sheet how many members, who had played in matches this year, were not playing on the day… quite a few. What perhaps is even more surprising is how many of the field had NOT played in matches, if you are one of these players why not consider forwarding your name for next year !
The weather was perfect with warm sunshine and a few clouds, the course was in excellent condition and those playing the redesigned course for the first time were mostly impressed and enjoyed the day, At the halfway house the Captain provided nourishment, in the form of tasty pasties, and beer or soft drinks for the ‘serious golfer’ !
On this occasion I would like to thank my playing partners, Lew Easter and Tony Edge for their support and encouragement, results will explain why. We played from the yellow tees on the day, which definitely lessens the challenge from the course, however this seems to be refuted by the somewhat modest winning scores. A plethora of prizes awaited the winners with the Captain offering raffle prizes with a free draw, donations were optional and hopefully most supported the local hospice, the recipient of funds collected.
Prior to a very nice meal the presentation took place with thanks to the Captain Ben, all the staff at the club and everyone who contributes to the management of Devon Golf Captains, arguably the best club in Devon. It was my pleasure to also pay tribute to our Secretary Roy Smith, I think I’ve said it before however, every association like ours needs a Roy but we’re fortunate to have the original. The many many hours that Roy spends on these days is outstanding and he is meticulous, this from a man now in his 90th year. As usual Henry Paget came along later in the day to help process the cards, thank you Henry.
Thank you Ben and Exeter G&CC for a very nice day, other than the Saunton Salver in October Captain’s Day is the finale for events and matches this year. To all members stay safe and well until next year and good golfing for everyone.
Malcolm Jordain
