The opening match with Bob and Adrian versus Tony and Ian
As is now the custom, for some, a number of us travelled to the venue a day early to bond and trial the local hospitality. On this occasion eleven Captains arrived at Patshull Park to discover a most delightful venue both pastoral and peaceful. A huge lake, alongside the hotel and golf course, afforded a beautiful vista and fishing facilities with equipment and boats for hire, in total the property extended to 275 acres. The benefit of our accommodation was simply that after our first match we did not have to drive to another hotel. Obviously those who chose to imbibe were not restricted, especially the drivers.
High temperatures meant that those players using buggies did not have a physical challenge as well as a golfing test. Although not a hilly course, except for one hole, local knowledge was an asset for sure, a number of blind holes would be less intimidating second time around. As one would expect at this time of year the greens and golf course were generally in very good order. There are some exceptional deals to be had at the complex for those anglers who also play golf, for the non golfers there are health and beauty options including a fine swimming pool, these were of course studiously avoided by our intrepid players.
As is pretty much the rule the golf was played in very good humour and rekindling friendships another element, particularly with our Shropshire and Herefordshire opponents, means that the results are of minimum significance, a good thing on this occasion ! Ben Lynch and Roger (Cooperman) Cooper the only victors with Terry Thorne and yours truly snatching a half from the jaws of victory, two up with three to play never wins !!!! We also are grateful to Roger Monson, a late replacement, who made the journey to Shropshire to complete our number. There were not too many matches that were close but tomorrow is another day, Bridgnorth here we come.
Malcolm Jordain
Devon Captains v Shropshire Captains at Patshull Park