
The culmination of the 2023 season took our players to Ilfracombe Golf Club, home for our retiring Captain Phil Webb. Chris Morton and I rose at 5am to be expertly chauffeured to the venue by Adrian Gazzard, to whom we are most grateful, allowing us to ‘set up’ for the competition. It was to be a qualifier and we received help from the Ilfracombe Admin team.
Earlier in the week the forecast was ‘iffy’, on the day however as soon as the early sea fret had cleared the sun was warm and very pleasant encouraging good scores and enjoyable golf. Enjoyable golf however can be something of ‘A Curate’s Egg’ for some the pleasure is when the golf is over, on the day! There are always exceptions and today was to be no different, 38 points returned early on and one felt that was probably going to be the target. To soothe the furrowed brows and refresh the wounded combatants Sian ,and her clubhouse team, were enthusiastic and efficient. The views from the course and clubhouse are always a welcome distraction from mediocre golf, “see the sea from every tee” a favourite maxim.
As scores were returned it became clear, subsequent to another 38 points, that this was the target unlikely to be beaten on the day. Hamish Marshall had a very good try just coming up short and Gerald Herniman, the popular owner of Libbaton Golf Club and a good friend to DGCs, achieved an excellent 35points, assuring both men of a place in the spotlight. Hamish won the Secretaries Salver and Gerald the winner of the Vets. Ian Edwards was probably the unluckiest player on the day with 38 points, beaten on the back nine for the Bowering Salver, too young for the Vets prize and not in the frame for the Scratch. The Scratch winner was an exceptional 33 points from Brian Stevens, Libbaton GC, playing off plus one.
Prior to the prize presentation I felt compelled to thank all present for their loyalty and support of the Captain and DGCs. Just 41 members played, I cannot remember fewer entries, for what is an outstanding association in existence since 1937, in this prestigious tournament. Bravo to all who played ! Prior to dinner the AGM was held without contention and in good spirit, I will of course be circulating the minutes at a later date. A very good 3 course meal was served and enjoyed by all before journeying home to try again another day.









