Bob Beeson reports …
After a stop off at Stinchcombe Golf Club on the way, 12 of the team enjoyed a practice round whilst I enjoyed the cool comforts of the club house. The other 3 members of the squad were meeting us at our headquarters at the Premier Inn in Bromsgrove where we enjoyed good food and planned our campaign over a drink or two on the opposition over the next two days.
Day 1 saw us make the short journey to face Worcestershire at Droitwich Golf Club where we were greeted by electric gates and a very prestigious clubhouse and course. Captain John greeted us and after a short history of the club from the present Captain, we announced the teams over lunch.
So, on to the first tee and, after a break from golf due to injury, I did not surprise myself when I duffed my drive a matter of yards into a bush still on the tee. At least it was past the Ladies tee but unfortunately lost so I quickly decided my partner Jeff could take over. This he did for the front nine to keep us in the game. I did come in on one hole with a back handed putt from off the green which went in the hole and then won the next with 2 shots – no problems win for the good boys. We then proceeded with 2 wins and a half before the opposition fought back, and it took a win from Jeff and Val at the end to produce a 4½ to 3½ win for Devon.
A splendid homemade curry then followed and yours truly gloated over the result and gleefully accepted the cut glass decanter to take back to Devon. After negotiating the electric gates and yet another detour, we made our way back to the headquarters to discuss tactics for the next day over a drink or two.
Day 2 left us a 40-minute journey to Brickhampton Court Golf complex with yet another impressive entrance – a driveway with the course on both sides for several hundred yards. I was greeted by Gloucestershire Vice Captain Trevor who explained that he has taken over the Captain’s duties as Captain Nick Broady is suffering from MND. Nick’s wife was hoping he would be able to make the tee off and presentation after dinner.
Teams were announced over lunch and so to the tee. I was presented not only with a ball from Captain Nick but also a yellow ball that I lost with my now famous tee shot from the day before. I was partnered by my Vice as we had not played together all season, and he certainly got me out of trouble all the way round as always, resulting in yet another win for your Captain! We then won the next match but lost the next two and I thought a draw was on the cards. But no! – the team rallied and won the next three with one halved – result 5½ to 2½ to Devon.
We enjoyed a fine meal, during which Vice Trevor explained a little more about Captain Nick – his illness, bravery and charity raising since being diagnosed around the time of the 6 Counties at Stover. Sadly, Nick has a very short life expectancy, but he insisted on coming especially to present the trophy which made for a truly emotional occasion. After the presentation, we made our weary ways home and for once not a diversion in sight. That is until after Dave had dropped me off at home only to find the A38 closed!!
Worcestershire
Gloucestershire
