Arriving at Exeter G&CC at 6.45 am I discovered the club didn’t open until 7.am however, the forecast was good and I could already see the efficient Lisa Newbury had already set up the registration desk in the Sports Bar, a good start! Setting up early allowed the players current handicaps to be achieved, using the England Golf App, in my opinion a step in the right direction. I realise the WHS is not to everyone’s liking however, on occasions such as this players were processed fairly smoothly and, if they so wished, could set up a qualifying scorecard with the benefit of a measured course, albeit the Yellow tees.
The Captain arrived with a friend from Exminster GC, Graham’s home club, who would be acting as starter for the day. Graham was unable to hold his competition at Exminster, a 9 hole course, and was pleased that Exeter G&CC were able to accommodate the event, knowing a good day was virtually guaranteed. The annual Captain versus Vice-Captain however is to be held at Exminster GC next year where Graham was Captain. The day progressed with Exeter players leading the field, the course, I was to find later, was in excellent condition presented by John Parr and his staff. The greens in nice condition and receptive to a well flighted ball, as some un-repaired pitch marks testified and putted well, no excuses for a poor score here! The club is currently developing various areas within the clubhouse facilities and looks to be providing some of the best facilities in the County and further afield perhaps, we look forward to seeing the finished article early in the new year.
A very good field of 112 players took part from clubs county wide, once again testament to Exeter’s appeal. The Captain set up his halfway house by the 8th tee, welcoming players with refreshments and soft drinks for those playing well and something a little stronger for those needing pain relief! Taking over the desk we were more than grateful to have Roy Smith, still wanting to help out on the day and Mike ‘Badders’ Badcock, a victim of no buggy available therefore unable to play, thank goodness you gent’s were on hand!
Results confirmed and checked we took our places in the spacious Duckworth Suite for the presentations and dinner, back to something like normal at last. Presentations completed, including a Callaway golf bag from our sponsor Graham Ruth, Tee Time Service and Brittany Ferry golf desk, dinner commenced. On this occasion a ‘set meal’ was enjoyed which provided for fast and efficient service and most enjoyable it was. The evening concluded with a heartfelt thanks from the Captain, for all concerned on the day, and an auction of two Exeter Chiefs shirts for their Foundation charity and Devon Juniors Golf Society, which I believe raised £200. Another good day for most if not all present.
Malcolm Jordain
