Jeff Laing – Stuart Darke – Brian Waggett – Phil Webb
The season begins at Ilfracombe Golf Club, the home club for Phil Webb, and the now traditional Captain versus Vice-Captain. Driving to Ilfracombe there were several squally and nasty showers, not the forecast that I saw. Arriving at the club and rain abated there were already several players ready to start this keenly fought ‘in house competition’. A strong wind greeted us with a rather chilly edge to it, this however did not dissuade a few trusty warriors wearing shorts, despite the ominous sea fret which also deprived us all the terrific views which are a comfort when ones golf is not behaving. The usual warm welcome from all the staff at the club, from Mark Davies the charismatic Professional and his enormous stock in a modest shop to the clubhouse staff cheery and friendly. Tasty sandwiches and chips, to fuel those who were walking and a comfort to those in buggies was the prelude to play commencing at 1.50 pm.
Those with knowledge of the golf course will know the first four holes are tough and require accuracy and ability to cope with the terrain and today the quite strong wind. Even the short fourth, 74 yards off the back tees, is treacherous with a number of players dropping short and others flying into the bracken behind the green. Thereafter the course becomes significantly wider and less punitive, nevertheless a good test of golf for all handicap abilities, there were some heavy defeats! Relatively early in the season, and not the best weather for greenkeepers in the early part of the year, the course was in very good condition with decent greens and fairways.
The sea fret remained until after play and for those of us needing distraction from our opponents relentless play, no such luck. The club’s oft used maxim, “See the sea from every tee” was however possible, the hubbub in the clubhouse indicated much fun and enjoyment had taken place, regardless of results and I repeat, “We often remember the people long after we have forgotten the result” An excellent 3 course meal followed, with the usual homely and plentiful quantities, together with a couple of short speeches from our two, on this the only occasion, protagonists Phil and Jeff. Sounds like Disney characters however, we wish them both an enjoyable and successful year, well done gents. Next stop Sussex and Hampshire Captains, we’re off.
Malcolm Jordain
