Mike Slater – Steve Spicer – Bob Webber – Clive Reynolds
The final and newest tour of 2017 demanded, for some, a last “bonding” on the evening prior to the match at Chipping Sodbury GC. Seven, mostly septuagenarians, elected to travel and stay at the hotel the day before the match. This is a new tour event combining the two Counties matches in place of the original one day matches. In future it is hoped to reverse the fixture thereby playing Worcester on the first day followed by Gloucester on the way home. Those of us choosing to stay the extra day were fulsome in their praise of staff at this Premier Inn, very efficient, friendly and importantly a good sense of humour, it does make such a difference!
So, breakfast taken, absorbing some of the previous evenings libations, a leisurely drive to nearby Chipping Sodbury to meet with fellow team mates who were travelling on the day. Upon arrival it was a pleasure to catch up with the Club General Manager Robin Goodey. Robin has been in position at the club for a little over four years, as many will know Robin is also a PGA professional and still occasionally plays in Pro-Ams. Previously Robin was at Downes Crediton and his amateur career was played out of Teignmouth GC. He sent his best wishes to all who know him in Devon Captains.
The course, to many a new experience, was in very good condition typically parkland with numerous ditches and water hazards. The greens, of moderate pace, were true and tricky to hit mostly like upturned saucers. The Devon boys found the course to their liking and managed to overpower our hosts, in some cases decisively. A first timer for Devon, Stewart Jackson (East Devon) who thoroughly enjoyed his involvement. We do need more Captains to support the match teams so Stewart’s inclusion was very welcome, for next year’s matches it’s still not too late to apply for selection. Following an excellent meal and complimentary thanks to all concerned the Devon boys returned to base to exchange stories of valour and incredible misfortune, missed gimmee putts and bandits in every match………….
Malcolm Jordain
Team & Result Sheet v Gloucester
