DOWNES CREDITON GOLF CLUB 15th AUGUST 2013
Match Result DGCs 6 – DLGCs 2
This popular fixture, for many of us, was this year hosted by the ladies at Downes Crediton. “Curtain” as it is known locally is always known for it’s friendly atmosphere, good food and its idiosyncratic course designed within its 90 acres. The full course is relatively new in Devon golf opening in 1976. The team at Crediton is lead by Secretary Robin Goodey himself a Professional golfer, the ever popular Barry (Baz) Austin in his shop and the ebullient Jane Nott and her team in the restaurant, what a team !
The day started with rain in many areas of the County but come the starting time cometh the Captain “Suntan” magic. The sun shone and a lovely warm day lay before us with excellent company. Several matches were really close and the final result does not necessarily reflect this. Roger Monson and Peter Northcott obviously not displaying the gallantry expected on such an occasion, alternatively, desperate to reach the bar to slake their thirsts! The course reflected some of the recent rainfall and was positively lush in some areas with good growth evident.
The Captain and his partner, Terry (Shipmate) Membery, showed typical gentlemanly restraint with a polite half, thereafter significant wins from the men until Roy Smith, and David Beer a late replacement for Derek Reed unfortunately unavailable because of recurrent health problems, fell upon their swords in submission to Glenda Board and Chris Longden. I trust all matches were played in good humour and with enjoyment. My own match, partnered with Michael Pagliero and against Diana Friend and Alison Cook, had a distinctly medical flavour. Michael a retired Cardiac Surgeon and Diana’s husband a Gynaecologist we felt most angles were covered. Michael’s game was superb and reflected the fact that not that long ago he partnered Ron Blake in Palairet matches, for East Devon, when he was playing off five.
So to dinner, the Ladies resplendent, coiffured and parfume’, joined us for an excellent meal and the speeches, in the main thanking Crediton for the hospitality and use of their course. The Captains referred to the handicap differential, ie the SSS differential, perhaps next year consideration might be given to the “Bisque” to promote a more competitive arena! For those whom may fondly remember the late George Watts, a well known and popular member at Crediton, Peter related the story whereupon George’s car, very slowly, rolled downhill into the pond adjacent to the 18th. Happy day’s !
Malcolm Jordain
To view the Teamsheet for the complete result click here