Roger Corkhill – Phil Webb – Peter Robbins – Malcolm Hughes
Day two of the tour and quite a long drive from the Premier Inn Polegate to the Hockley Golf Club near Winchester. Once again our drivers did a sterling job alas we were a man down, David Jack had to return home. Fortunately one of the members at Hockley, who had already played earlier, volunteered to play as a sub for Devon, as you will see he was accompanied by his lovely “Sprocker Spaniel”, an inveterate ball finder! The forecast was for rain later in the day and light showers only, fortunately everyone had packed their waterproofs!
The course was a parkland layout and appeared to be in good condition although the greens were a little slower than at Willingdon. Suffice to say the weather forecast was not precise and, after Bill Hammett and I had played seven holes we seriously discussed the possibility of “going in” our charming hosts felt it was “looking brighter”. This was a big mistake, great company though our hosts were they were terrible meteorologists, the rain persisted and on the 11th we surrendered at two down, such is life.
Returning to the clubhouse, showering and changing into dry clothes it was most certainly the best part of the day. Subsequent to a very enjoyable meal and the usual thanks to all concerned we rather wearily prepared for the journey home. Seated alongside the President in his “speedboat” we hurried West through constant rain and standing water to then encounter the closure of the A303 for several miles ensuing us following the diversion signs. Arriving home safely is sometimes more welcome than usual!
Malcolm Jordain
