Devon Golf Captains - Matches or Fixtures

President: Bernard Young – Captain: Mike Penlington

Hon. Secretary: Roy Smith Vice Captain: Mike Penlington

Match Secretary: Henry Paget

Click on the blue link below to view the complete Fixture List for 2012.

Please click this link to open up a new window with the fixtures in Adobe PDF format, which you can view on screen and print if required.

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Mike Angelos

Mike Penlington

MATCH REPORTS

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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v HAMPSHIRE GOLF CAPTAINS

TORQUAY GOLF CLUB 10th MAY 2012

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 3.5 - HAMPSHIRE GCs 4.5

Often match reports refer to the weather on the day, this report is to be no exception ! Hampshire were on tour and the previous day had played Cornwall at Lostwithiel Golf Club. Torrential rain had been endured during their match and enthusiasm had waned somewhat in their ranks. To start with they were redirected by ourselves to Torquay GC, the fixture was to be played at Teignmouth GC but had to be changed to the new venue as Teignmouth could not allow trollies or buggies, because of the rainfall received and forecast for the day. Our Captain arranged for the match to be played at his home course despite the short notice and the ability to use trollies was allowed.

On arrival at Torquay the forecast rainfall was in full swing and enthusiastic optimism was in short supply, including the Devon men. Play commenced however with a steady downpour demanding maximum results from waterproof clothing. Amazingly the greenstaff provided eighteen main greens, for those electing to use the full course. There were however those who chose to succumb to the conditions and volunteered "honourable halves" to one another, swiftly and gratefully accepted !

This match, the Captain's last before completing his term, was therefore disappointing because of the foul weather but everyone, especially the visiting Captains, made the very best of things in the clubhouse after showering and drying out. Torquay, visited frequently in the last few weeks by DGCs, were once again a splendid host club with their inhouse team led by the attentive and welcoming Toni well supported by an expert team in the kitchen. Thanks also to the members for our recent frequent use of their golf course.

"Adios Angelos" was initiated by Lew Easter (DGC Capt. 2009) who thanked the Captain and congratulated him on his year of office.

Malcolm Jordain

To view a Teamsheet for the full result click here

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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v BRITISH SENIOR GOLFERS' SOCIETY

ROYAL NORTH DEVON GOLF CLUB. 8th MAY 2012

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 4.5 - BRITISH SENIORS GS 5.5

This the fifth year of our now annual fixture against the Seniors was reduced to ten pairs per side, this meant that those Captains selected relished their day even more than usual. Once again reserves had to be employed, it is hoped that Peter Dunstan begins his period of Vice Captaincy, later this month, with fewer withdrawals than previous years.

The main concern when playing RND is always the weather, the day provided no excuses for those seeking a refuge for errant play! The marvellous game of foursomes examines every fibre of the golfer's ability, character and nerve. The opponents regularly enjoy this special test of golf at home and on tour, every match is played in the foursomes format. This translates into a "we" game rather than a "me" game meaning shared responsibility, win or lose ! RND offers the golfer an opportunity for a round with mans best friend, witness Charles Churchill and his black labrador. It is therfore no surprise that several players joined the "Kennel Club" on the day, Trevor "Chum" Reynolds and Malcolm "Rover" Jordain going down 7/6 putted off the course by Iain Breese and John Harkness, an RND member.

Whatever the result the Seniors are always excellent hosts as is RND a very special venue, preparations are well in hand for the club's 150th anniversary in 2014. Organisation on the day, by Peter Brown in his usual efficient manner, was this year accompanied by a warm welcome to all from Kate Brown, President of the club and of course Peter's wife.

The Captain's of both teams expressed their thanks to the members and staff of RND for the facilities provided and for an excellent dinner, enjoyed by all.

Malcolm Jordain

To view a Teamsheet for the full result click here

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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v SUSSEX GOLF CAPTAINS

TORQUAY GOLF CLUB 3rd MAY 2012

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 6 - SUSSEX GCs 2

We arrived at Torquay after recent heavy, and at times, torrential rain; the forecast was gloomy but the golf was most certainly not. From the moment Torquay Captain Steve Thorne welcomed everyone to Torquay and threw down the gauntlet to the Sussex team, which he certainly followed with his golf, the Devon team knew they up for a challenge . One of the Sussex team, Kevin,was left behind at Carlyon Bay ( He claimed he was reading "The Times" and missed his lift), where they had played Cornwall the day before. After many telephone calls and a long taxi ride, a flustered Kevin arrived at Torquay to ensure a full complement of players.

The recent heavy rain has caused a few headaches for the Torquay greenstaff washing away a lot of the recently filled drainage channels that cross many of the fairways, the course however is seeing the benefits of investment and the course is otherwise in good condition. The forecasted rain did not materialise and once the golf began it quickly became apparent on the golf course that one or two of the Sussex side had enjoyed a pint or two of "Doom Bar" too many the night before. The match was played in fine spirit, especially when we have amongst our ranks, a Sussex Captain doing his best to put one over his old teamates. Well done Barry! We were well looked after by the catering and bar staff and a really good day was enjoyed by all whom played.

Mike Penlington

Vice Capt.

To view a Teamsheet for the full result click here

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CAPTAIN'S TEAM v VICE CAPTAIN'S TEAM

TORQUAY GOLF CLUB 19th APRIL 2012

MATCH RESULT CAPTAIN'S TEAM 7 - VICE CAPTAIN'S TEAM 5

This annual match, although slightly incestuous, is now firmly established as a favourite for many. It is after all an occasion whereupon the odd ribald remark, in the fourballs contesting, is not so appropriate when playing more formal opposition. The few days prior to the match day were not encouraging in terms of weather, some spiteful squally showers did not entice golfers on to their courses, Thursday however was a welcome exception with most players suffering no more than a few drops of rain at worst.

As you will observe the match could easily have gone either way with some close games. Fortunate to be playing with the Vice Captain "Penners" against the Captain our match produced some homebred flavour, the Captain's partner being Steve "Spiceman" Spicer also a Dainton Park member as is "Penners", battle ensued and finished with the Vice Captain making a "gimmee par" on the eighteenth for an agreeable half.

A very positive aspect of the day was also to be the Torquay clubhouse staff, friendly and efficient and the meal was excellent. The two Captain's paid tribute to Torquay Golf Club and their members allowing us to take tee time . The course particularly the greens enjoyed by all. Next years match at Dainton Park will I am sure also be eagerly anticipated for the greens are always first class and the potatoes, meats and puddings!

Malcolm Jordain

To view a Teamsheet for the full result sheet one click here

sheet two click here

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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v WORCESTER GOLF CAPTAINS

SAUNTON GOLF CLUB 12th APRIL 2012

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 6 - WORCESTER GCs 2

On arrival at Saunton, we were greeted with pleasant sunshine, instead of the forecast showers, the weather got better but unfortunately my golf didn't ! It was Worcester Captain Pauls' first tee shot since his recent appointment, what a cracker, straight down the middle, resulting in a birdie on the first. The match continued in the same fine form, as was pointed out by Captain Mike at dinner for a fine half.

Four members of the Worcester side are Saunton members, with their local knowledge they were certainly hoping to win this match, however they came up against some Devon Captains in fine form and some very close duels were fought on the fairways. There was only one loss for the home team, that was in the last match, where Cyril played wonderfully well but couldn't rely on his partner, me, for any support at all, this combined with some very good play over the closing holes from Greville and Roger our opponents, they won with the last putt on the last green. The whole match was played in fine spirit on an excellent day, the course was in superb condition and we were looked after splendidly in the clubhouse, a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Mike Penlington

Vice Captain

To view a Teamsheet for the full result click here

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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v DEVON COUNTY JUNIOR GOLF SOCIETY

PADBROOK PARK GOLF CLUB 9th APRIL 2012

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 2 - DCJGS 3

We arrived after a spell of dry weather to find the juniors practising hard in the sunshine and the course in good condition, for this time of year.In all the matches the Captains were receiving shots,and we certainly needed them. The match was played from the forward tees and it at least kept the scores respectable. With the Juniors hitting long irons and most of the Captains hitting drivers on the shorter or tighter par fours it was a pleasure to see some very good golf being played with plenty of birdies in evidence. All of the matches were played in good spirit and the usual result ensued with the juniors winning by three matches to two, both matches won by the Captains going to the last green. We were well looked after by Padbrook with plenty of food on offer for our refreshment and not even the Juniors could clear their plates . This was a very good way to kickstart the matches in our 75th Anniversary year with only the result being a disappointment.

Mike Penlington

Vice Captain

To view a Teamsheet for the full result click here

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WEST OF ENGLAND 6 COUNTIES CAPTAINS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP

SAUNTON GOLF CLUB 5th APRIL 2012

The victorious Devon Team with the trophy

To view the match report and results click the link

DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v SOMERSET GOLF CAPTAINS

DAWLISH WARREN GOLF CLUB 1st SEPTEMBER

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 3.5 - SOMERSET GCs 4.5

The final match of the Season, prior to the winter break, was to be a finale for Captain Mike Angelos before his attention turns to his Captain's Day at Torquay GC on September 15th.

We arrived under an overcast sky to play our match at the Warren. The first shock in store was how green the overall course was, at this time of year it is brown, today an altogether different look, must be due to the inclement weather we are receiving. Once into the clubhouse we were warmly welcomed by Warren Captain Mike. When the match started the sun came out and we were treated to a splendid afternoon. What a treat was in store, the course was quite challenging with an unusual wind blowing and the greens were outstanding, putting true and a nice pace, it was imperative not to get the wrong side of the hole. The first four matches were all very close affairs, but it all went wrong from match 5 onwards when the local boys received "a bit of a pasting" as described by one of the players. The men fron Somerset retained the trophy by the narrowest of margins but from the volume in the clubhouse over the splendid meal and wine afterwards, it was clear the everyone had enjoyed their day.

Mike Penlington

Vice Captain

To view a Teamsheet for the full result Click Here

DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v GLOUCESTER GOLF CAPTAINS

FORREST HILLS GOLF CLUB 23rd AUGUST

Match Result DEVON GCs 4 - GLOUCESTER GCs 4

We set out from Devon with some trepidation, the weather was dismal,low cloud and rain,the forecast not much better. The first horror we had to pay £5.70 to get into Wales and we were only going to be there for 5 minutes before returning to England and into Gloucestershire. We arrived to brightening skies and much pleasure when they brought out the lunch. Much amusement was seen when a seagull kept plunging into the lake in front of the clubhouse windows to retrieve a golf ball which he then dropped onto the ground only for it to roll back into the water.Ben Lynch was seen to to rush out and get said golf ball when the bird eventually flew away.

Alf Hunt popped in and acted as starter (he said "it's only just down the road for me"), nice to see you looking so well Alf ! The match took place under a sunny sky, and what a treat it was. A little local knowledge certainlyhelped in places, I must say our playing partners were very helpful in this regard and I certainly had a good partner on the day, well played Neil. Captain Mike was heard to mutter in the clubhouse about how well the the Club Captain David had played and he got well and truly beaten, well I think that was what he was trying to say. Some very close matches took place and after a very quick start by the home lads, a tense Captain Mike watching all of the later matches from the balcony above the eighteenth green, he managed to spur us on to a very honourable halved match.

We were well looked after in the clubhouse by the catering and bar staff and at least we didn't have to pay when we travelled back over the bridge to get back home.

Mike Penlington

To view the Teamsheet for the full result click here

DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v DEVON LADIES GOLF CAPTAINS

EXETER GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 18th AUGUST

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 6 - DEVON LGCs 2

This eagerly anticipated match is always played in competitive but generous manner, the first negotiation to be decided is the difference between SSS for men and women. Once calculated it is not unusual for the ladies to introduce their feminine guile, to request "courtesy shots", often met with a sudden loss of hearing by the regnant Captain. I'm not quite sure what happened this year but the outcome was an additional three shots for the ladies before the 3/4 allowance.

The reason for the lack of information was in the timing, at 10.30 whilst readying myself for the drive to Exeter a telephone call, from Mike ("don't panic Mr Mainwaring) Penlington, to say that the tee time was now 11.30 and not 1pm as given. A certain amount of fast movements followed, arriving at the golf club I was called to the tee and promptly "toed" my drive just past the ladies tee, to great delight and laughter from the gathered company!

The match proceeded for all in fine weather and the course in excellent condition, particularly so since there had been sustained rain during the night and early morning. My partner, Alec Gosling and myself were fortunate to be drawn against a couple of charmers, Jan (Staddon) and Marilyn (Dartmouth) and much fun was had!The Captain was paired with the popular current Exeter Captain Paul Smale, this is always a pleasant occasion when the home Captain is invited as our guest for the day, a small thank you to the home club for allowing us courtesy of their course.

Exeter is a very fitting venue for this particular match, the elegant clubhouse a perfect setting for our opponents to join us coiffured and perfumed. There followed a very nice meal beautifully serviced by some very young staff. The Captain's made their thanks to all at the club and to their players, a splendid day for all once again and wished all a safe journey home. Long may this match continue!

Malcolm Jordain

To view the Teamsheet for the full result click here

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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v CORNWALL GOLF CAPTAINS

OKEHAMPTON GOLF CLUB 11th AUGUST

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 5 - CORNWALL GCs 4

After a break of almost a month the matches recommenced at Okehampton GC against "the old enemy" Cornwall. There is always a friendly rivalry in this fixture, as in most other sports, against our neighbours. Therefore an ideal time for Captain Mike Angelos to make his playing return, after his recent health problems.

Okehampton, as usual lush and well prepared, was for many of us a pleasant return to the wonderful quirky, unusual and very individual golf course. I know of no other course even vaguely similar, which I find even more appealing, previous play at the course a tremendous benefit.

The weather on the day was mostly kind to us with a little drizzle here and there. The greens, of a medium pace, were in excellent condition and putted true even with some of the severe levels on many. In the distance the Okehampton Show was in full swing, audibly by way of the sound amplification, where Secretary Beverley and Pro. Ashley were running a stand on a membership drive, good idea!

On this occasion Okehampton Captain Mike Hutchinson was able to join us, as our guest, and warmly welcomed us to the club. This was followed by both Captains thanking him and the members for the courtesy of the golf course and also to all the staff. The staff in particular were enthusiastically applauded for their friendly attitude and excellent service. Many larger and more high profile clubs could well be impressed by the quality of food produced from such limited facilities, the cosy and rustic clubhouse I'm sure together with excellent fare produces that element within golf sometimes missing "clubmanship".

Malcolm Jordain

To view the Teamsheet for the full result click here

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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v SOUTH WALES COASTAL CAPTAINS

WOODBURY PARK GOLF CLUB 14th JULY

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 4.5 - SOUTH WALES COASTAL CAPTAINS 3.5

An unusual occurrence today with neither the Captain or Vice Captain available to play. "Penners" away in France on annual family holiday and Mike Angelos recovering from his recent pacemaker surgery. Mike however attended and rode with me on a buggy in the match against SWCCs Captain Graham Turnzynski.

Woodbury, as one expects, in excellent condition and very well presented, the car park filled to the overflow area, what recession? Some of the familiar Welsh faces not present this year, President Ron Pope & Arnie Pigeon (Sec. St Pierre) not available. This was balanced by two of the regulars Eric Brown, tasting a rare defeat at the hands of Steve (Spiceman) Spicer & evergreen Roy (two drivers) Smith, and gentle giant George Lowe with his customary win.

Although not a fan of par three finishing holes Woodbury and St. Pierre are exceptions to the rule, both providing convenient terraces for the onlooker to witness the entire play of the hole, with a glass of cool ale. Speaking with Eric Brown, after our matches, it would seem that the possibility of St. Pierre (50th) and DGCs (75th) celebrating our anniversaries together next year is still on.

The very good dinner was enjoyed by all and we were joined by Robin Hawkins, Woodbury's owner, who thanked us all for choosing his golf course and enthusiastically welcomes our return. Final thanks from Mike and Graham to their teams and all at the golf club concluded another good day for all.

To view The Teamsheet for the full result click here

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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v SOUTH WEST SECRETARIES

PADBROOK PARK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 7th JULY

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 5.5 - S. WEST SECRETARIES 2.5

Padbrook Park a new venue for our matches were excellent hosts, the Pro shop and hotel staff friendly and welcoming. You will I hope remember Padbrook is the venue for the 75th celebration dinner next year, Friday 30th March, full details will be forwarded in September.

The match against the Secretaries is always keenly contested and this year was to be no different ! There are several players who qualify to play for either side, notably our fine Vice Captain Mike Penlington who on this occasion was promoted to Captain for the day, Mike Angelos not feeling well enough to attend after his recent surgery.

Much banter between "Penners" and Richard (Jessop) the Secs. Captain took place during the team announcements together with the Secs. team changing handicaps, upwards, no handicap certificates were requested by the Captains! This of course is the humour the matches enjoy with "bandit" heard here and there.

The course is demanding and requires thoughtful club selection, particularly off the tee and approach to the greens, the sloping greens often meant hazardous downhill putts if above the hole. The course definetly benefits local knowledge and most of us who return will feel more confident second time around. Local knowledge prevailed in the match with Barry Long, playing with Padbrook owner Gary Scargill, a very welcome substitute for David Madge who had to withdraw in the morning due to family illness.

The very well appointed hotel provided the excellent after match dinner whereupon thanks to all at Padbrook was expressed by both Captain's, the trophy was then presented to Mike by Richard whose keen inspection of said trophy revealed the Captains had engraved their 2009 win TWICE. Currently the Captains lead in results won, creative engraving !

Malcolm Jordain

To view the Teamsheet for the full result click here

DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v DORSET GOLF CAPTAINS

LYME REGIS GOLF CLUB THURSDAY 30TH JUNE

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 4.5 - DORSET GCs 3.5

Arriving at Lyme Regis golf club in bright sunshine was very welcome, a number of people had arrived on other occasions to find the course wreathed in fog and mist. Captain Mike arrived chauffered by the newly wed John "Churchy" Churchward, John hasn't been on the Captains match list for some time so a pleasure to see him back in harness.

The course is set on a plateau on the cliffs overlooking the historic town of Lyme Regis with stunning views toward Portland Bill and Chesil Beach and West to Berry Head. The course itself was in good condition with the greens running at a medium pace. There are some excellent holes particularly the seventh an uphill par 4, SI.1. 464 yards with a well guarded green, the tenth also a long par 4 with a large tree in the middle of the fairway.

The course obviously suited the DGCs managing a narrow victory with some decent golf being played. The Captains thanked everyone at Lyme Regis for the use of the course, caterers and greenstaff for a most enjoyable day. Toasts were made to one and all with the next match upcoming against SW Secretaries, at Padbrook Park, Mike Angelos is hoping the return to winning form continues.

Malcolm Jordain

To view the Teamsheet for the full result click here

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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v OXFORD GOLF CAPTAINS

TAVISTOCK GOLF CLUB WEDNESDAY 22ND JUNE

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 3.5 - OXFORD GCs 4.5

The Tippex contract is safe, and is now a rolling agreement, so that future Captains and Vice Captains will never exhaust current stocks. On this occasion there was even a replacement for a replacement, hence thanks to all the subs!

Lowering skies and squally heavy showers threatened the day's match, on arrival at Tavistock standing water on the putting green looked ominous. Our concern was soon answered with brightening sunshine, the course drained very well and was in excellent condition. Many of the Oxford team hadn't played Tavy. before and by all accounts all enjoyed the course particularly the greens.

The result was to be our Captain Mike's first defeat, it has to come at sometime, but the match was summed up for me by a comment by one of my opponents. I played with a welcome newish Captain, Graham Heaman from Exminster, our match had been particularly ding dong with Graham keeping us in the match mostly. At the eighteenth with the Oxford boys having a four footer and unusually I had a two footer also for par we offerred a half on the match which was warmly accepted. David,one of our opponents, said "Thanks gentlemen very generous, it's the people one remembers not the result" this I think sums up the golf we all like to play! Although this result had some bearing on the overall outcome golf is the eventual winner.

Captains Mike and Richard warmly thanked Tavistock for their welcome and hospitality particularly the dinner which all agreed was first class. The Oxford team were overnighting and travelling to their next match at Dorset on Thursday. DGCs travel to Lyme Regis to play Dorset next week hopefully the course will be playable as it suffers frequently from fog and sea mist.

Malcolm Jordain

To view the Teamsheet for the full result click here
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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v SHROPSHIRE & HEREFORD GOLF CAPTAINS

BRIDGNORTH GOLF CLUB TUESDAY 14TH JUNE

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 5 - SHROPSHIRE & HEREFORD GCs 3

The long drive to Bridgnorth, in bright sunshine and warm conditions, was rewarded with a delicious pint of Wye Valley pale ale. The drivers as usual ready to sit back and relax enjoying the gathered company before battle commenced. Bridgnorth starts with a severe uphill par four with local knowledge a most definite advantage, the second shot often a blind "hit and hope". Once the first three holes are played the course becomes a flat parkland course running alongside the Severn. The greens for most of us were of a medium pace and in good condition, having earlier left behind the arid wastes of Devon Brignorth appeared positively lush.

My own match, partnered by Brian Waggett now in positively rude health, was a particular pleasure against the two " Jolly Rogers". Roger Meredith a chaming octogenarian and Roger Elston currently the County President of S&H CGU and real fun company, this accompanied by a splendid spirit of sport when giving a half on the eighteenth which was far from sure, gratefully received. The same spirit one hopes exists in most of our matches, if anyone should exhibit golf in it's best light then surely Past Captains must stand first in line.

Speeches and thanks to all at Bridgnorth our intrepid travellers, sat nav prepared, headed for The Premier Inn at Telford for overnight accomodation and some R&R to prepare for the next day at Lilleshall.

Malcolm Jordain

To view the Teamsheet for the full result click here

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DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS v SHROPSHIRE & HEREFORD GOLF CAPTAINS

LILLESHALL HALL GOLF CLUB WEDNESDAY 15TH JUNE

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 4 - SHROPSHIRE & HEREFORD GCs 4

Refreshed and a good english breakfast inside us, particularly good value for our accomodation and food, we bade farewell to mine hosts and made the very short journey to Lilleshall. Well, for those of us not already familiar with the course, a treat indeed awaited for all. Lush greenery everywhere, facilities abound football, rugby, hockey pitchess seemingly at every corner. Indoor facilities also for training and practice set in acres and acres of beautiful grounds.

Teams announced the golf began, a little rain had already fallen which explained the verdant conditions we were about to enjoy. Mike (Penners) Penlington and I exchanged notes after the match and we agreed "not a long course but very tricky and sometimes demanding, very enjoyable". To those people visiting this area we agreed well worth a recommendation, a particular feature the sloping greens mainly from front to back making the approach shot a real "tester". Often the seemingly good shot ending up at the back of the green in the "three putt zone", the greens very quick with some very subtle borrows and run off areas.

A casual examination of team sheets provides the fact that in the majority of matches DGCs give shots to the opposition, I'm not quite sure what, if anything, this tells us but it is most certainly the rule rather than the exception. This match proved to be the most difficult to date in Cap'n Angelos reign, his 100% record now gone! For all that a shower, another local ale consumed, and results are soon forgotten. A very enjoyable meal and the traditional speeches delivered we were soon on our way home, courtesy of our splendid drivers. Most I'm sure will remember the Shropshire tour with some affection, it is I am sure one of the "special" matches although only eighteen people submitted their names this year.

Malcolm Jordain

To view the Teamsheet for the result click here

DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS V WILTSHIRE GOLF CAPTAINS

CHURSTON GOLF CLUB THURSDAY 9TH JUNE 2011

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 5.5 - WILTSHIRE GCs 2.5

The lack of rainfall no better exemplified than at Churston proved entertaining for all players. Some amazing club selections proved quite astonishing for some players, Peter Kneebone for example hitting Driver and a six iron to the par 5 fifth. Despite this everyone seemed to enjoy the course, particularly the Wiltshire lads many of whom had never played the course before. The greens catching many out they were both fast and true, a tribute to Kelvin Millar and his greenstaff.

Once again a number of reserves had to be called up to fill withdrawals from the original selected team. Some interesting pairings produced interesting results with Mike's team managing to win three matches by the narrowest of margins all going to the eighteenth. Soup and sandwiches started the day off with the popular and sensible method of announcing the pairings prior to play enabling the fours to sit with each other for an hour or so.

So far so good for the Captain 100% record with two matches played, he thanked Churston and the members for the use of the course also complimenting the catering staff for a very nice meal. Ian the Wiltshire Captain endorsed all the comments and presented Mike with the Trophy with the addition of a Churston ball marker.

Next stop Shropshire, Bridgnorth and Lilleshall golf clubs the venues. Always a popular tour we all hope to see courses a little greener and more verdant.

Malcolm Jordain

To view the Teamsheet for the full result click here

DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS V WARWICKSHIRE GOLF CAPTAINS

EXETER GOLF & CC. THURSDAY 2ND JUNE 2011

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 6.5 - WARWICKSHIRE GCs 1.5

There can be no better setting in Devon golf than Exeter Golf & CC on a day such as this. Although all are desperately needing rainfall the course and it's environs were positively lush and verdant compared to many. The refurbishment to the clubhouse and terraces must be the envy of many visiting players. To be able to sit and watch players on the putting greens and others finishing on the 18th, whilst sipping a refreshing libation, is such a pleasure with this warm and sunny weather.

This, the first match for our newly elected Captain Mike Angelos and also his Vice Mike (Penners) Penlington , proved to be a dream start with a convincing win with just one game lost, oops! According to Past President Keith Gordon it was difficult for Warwickshire to field a team, distance, age and work committments for the younger Captains the main reasons, a familiar story. Despite this the teams enjoyed the course the company and the usual banter results soon forgotten once showered and changed, for two of us none too soon!

In the splendid dining room we enjoyed a satisfying meal, overseen by the exuberant clubhouse manager Mike. The Captains thanked all concerned for their attendance, thanks also to Exeter GolF & CC. the members and staff for their contributions in making the day so enjoyable. Next years return match will be at Sutton Coldfield, we anticipate the renewal of accquaintance in our 75th Anniversary year.

Malcolm Jordain

To view the TEAMSHEET for the full result click here

DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS V HAMPSHIRE GOLF CAPTAINS

TYLNEY PARK G.C. 5TH MAY 2011

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCS 5 - HAMPSHIRE GCs 3

Rested and relaxed the tour party departed for Tylney Park for day two, still an hour away, we arrived to the inviting aroma of bacon being prepared together with a full english breakfast, enjoyed by both teams.

The golf course proved to be a total contrast to the previous day, a very attractive parkland layout in splendid condition. The greens quite pacy and true, a pleasure to prepare the putting stroke for the season ahead.

The weather was simply marvellous but I would suppose all golfers and gardeners are hoping for some rainfall soon, even this course provided some very long running balls. The clubhouse, overlooking the 18th green, provided suitable accomodation to witness victors and vanquished finishing their games with suitable comments from both teams.

After a welcome meal and suitable addresses from both Captains, thanks also to Derek from DGCs, we embarked on the long journey home. I am sure all passengers will join me in thanking our intrepid drivers for their tour de force.

Malcolm Jordain

To view the teamsheet for the full result Click Here

DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS V SUSSEX GOLF CAPTAINS

EASTBOURNE DOWNS G.C. 4TH MAY 2011

MATCH RESULT DEVON GCs 4.5 - SUSSEX GCs 3.5

After a long and arduous journey, particularly for the drivers, we arrived at Eastbourne with a pleasant day ahead and a course not previously played by most of the Devon Captains. The course as it name suggests downland and very much affected by the wind, evidenced by some acute angles of trees and bushes.

A close match ensued with some games heavily weighted in favour of the winning side, Adrian (Rex) Beaumont and Geoff (Rover) Rogers suffering the "dogs licence", taken in good spirit. The course had not yet "arrived" and a problem with the greens meant that we did not play the course at it's best. In spite of that everyone seemed to enjoy the day with terrific off course views and good company.

Both Captains, Derek now fully recovered, concluded the day with thanks to the greenstaff, caterers and Eastbourne Downs members for the use of their course.

Packed and on the road to the Premier Inn Hotel Crawley to rest and overnight, with one or three nightcaps, to ready ourselves for the trip next day to Hampshire, sleep well!

Malcolm Jordain

To view the Teamsheet for the full result Click Here

DEVON GOLF CAPTAINS V BRITISH SENIOR GOLFERS' SOCIETY

ROYAL NORTH DEVON G.C 3RD MAY 2011

MATCH RESULT DEVON G.Cs 4.5 - SENIOR GOLFERS' 7.5

This relatively new fixture, this the fourth year, is very much a match to savour for those who have played in previous years. It is therefore rather ironic that 36 Captains were invited to play before a team of 24 could be presented, once again the message to all who submit requests for matches is please be proactive and inform the Captain if your circumstances change prior to team selection.

In spite of the number of reserves required a splendid day was enjoyed by all, the weather as last year warm with a light breeze, RND as benign as one could wish for. Most of the matches were extremely close as you will see with good sport for all, the overiding experience provided by the Seniors match format, foursomes. Although many of us rarely play foursomes I believe it to be a healthy golfing experience, it is after all a 'we' game rather than a 'me' game.

With the match over and Dinner, with the wine provided by way of the Seniors generosity, was readily taken with some of the Seniors charming ladies joining us. A splendid meal followed by thanks from the Seniors Captain Charles Churchill, who was later presented with a souvenir of his Captaincy, the first RND member to be appointed Captain of the British Senior Golfers' society. Unfortunately at this time our Captain Derek became unwell, with Vice Captain Mike Angelos not present Mike Penlington filled the breech admirably with a more than adequate ad lib reply.

As is now the expectation match manager Peter Brown arranged the day, some would add also the weather, with his usual attention to detail offering white or yellow tees to each match. The course a joy to play and in superb condition, presented by Mark Evans and his staff, was for some of us a welcome return since playing the Captain v Vice Captain match recently.

For those selected to play in the tour of Sussex and Hampshire, an early night and a long journey the next day required an early departure from the proceedings. We look forward to next year to renew accquaintance and friendship.

Malcolm Jordain

To view the Teamsheet for the full result Click Here

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