Both teams, having driven through the predicted heavy squally showers, arrived at Okehampton with some apprehension as to the day’s upcoming weather, The result was a win for all concerned with hardly a spot of rain all afternoon. The welcome at Okehampton is very predictable always, warm and friendly and the artisan clubhouse a refreshing alternative to some of the more modern and sterile erections. From Beverley Lawson, the long standing Secretary, to the wonderfully stocked Pro shop of Asley Moon Okehampton offers an excellent service to members and visitors alike.
These days the club also offers a few buggies for those who are in need and extends the golfing life at such courses for many. The course was in excellent order with greens in good shape with moderate pace which suited some of the holes undulating slopes. Gary Carey, the club Captain, welcomed all but warned they were in desperate need of a delivery to re-stock their cellar with beer. The gathered company visibly paled, the reason, Gary’s Captain’s Day had successfully drained the beer stock to a minimum, fortunately later in the day emergency stock was delivered.
Many of our visitors had never played the course and, judging by the result, very quickly became accustomed to the slopes and lies the course demands. The unique and some might say quirky course, designed originally by JH Taylor, is in stark contrast to some of the more formulaic modern courses and every hole quite different. As always a number of renewed friendships make these matches so enjoyable, the memories of past encounters and the banter thereafter quite special. Phil and Ian both thanked Garey and the club for hosting what had been a very good day’s sport, rounded off nicely with a truly exceptional dinner of Pork Belly or Hunter’s Chicken quite delicious!
Malcolm Jordain
