Bob Beeson reports …
This was an eagerly anticipated revenge match for the Devon Juniors, following last year’s 5-1 victory to DGC. We were met with rather indifferent weather with heavy showers in the forecast.
Bacon baps & chips were demolished and then yours truly and Stover’s Vice Captain Neil Goddard (8) faced the formidable pairing of Captain Freddie Elgin (+2.6) & Joe Aldous (+0.1) on the 1st tee.
We just got our noses in front until the old 4th hole which is being played as a par 3 replacing the 7th hole which is out of play. Yours truly had a hole-in-one for a net 0!!!
After celebrations and some disbelief, we were greeted on the 10th tee with a wee dram from Mark Sangster, the Godfather of Devon Juniors, and I produced one of my best drives of the day. My second ended up going down the road, followed by a skinned shot over the green towards the river. My partner was near the hole in two net one, so I went to retrieve my ball from the riverbank and on the way back, I slipped and ended up face first in the river. Somewhat shocked and embarrassed, my partner and Mr Vice eventually retrieved me from the river and with the help of both team players and Simon Bawden, I made my way back to the clubhouse.
Once dried out, I was eager to find out how things were going and was informed by Mark S that the boys had insisted on conceding our game and had gone out on the buggy to gee up their team. I caught up with them and after a short discussion, it was agreed an honourable half would be in order.
They then informed me they were getting a drubbing, and the result was a 7-1 win to DGC. Well done chaps and I understand that there was some excellent scoring on both nines with a couple of commendable fight backs. This was certainly a game of highs and lows, but I must say it was a pleasure to play such a talented and well-mannered group of young gentlemen, and I wish Freddie all the best in the future with his Devon County Golf ambitions.
The day finished with a fine meal and final speeches from both Captains with many compliments being paid to the Devon Juniors. Long may we continue these matches.
