
President’s Day at Dartmouth G&CC started fairly early with my very good friend Chris Morton collecting me at just before 7am for our five minute drive to the Dartmouth Higher Ferry. Arriving at the club a little after 7.30am we set up the reception desk and looked forward to a successful day. The first item I am pleased to mention is the enormous help provided by Brian Mushens. Brian used to lecture in IT and there’s not a lot he doesn’t know about computers and software, consequently he had set up, using IG, the competition as a qualifier and provided us with the labels for each player’s scorecard. This is an enormous help as I discovered last year at Churston by way of the Pro Harry Mayers in the shop and Chris Morton. So, very punctually, Brian and the other eight players from Dartmouth set off under the watchful eye of Terry Wilson starter on the day and a special servant to the club for many years.
It soon transpired that traffic was to have an unwelcome impact for players from away, roadworks plus early holiday traffic and the ferry queue just two of the issues. Nevertheless with a bit of start time juggling and compliance from some players starting later play flowed along. President Lew had some voluntary help from some lady members as ball spotters, that proved to be useful because in some areas balls were plugging, the course was wet. As a consequence buggies were not allowed on the fairways and had to remain on the buggy paths also Winter rules were not in place. Because this was not discovered until later in the day options were not available. President Lew provided welcome drinks and snacks as players made the journey from 9 to 10.
The first flight posted their scores after four & three quarter hours and amongst the Dartmouth returns there was a score that was unlikely to be equalled on the day, Steve Atkins the current Dartmouth Captain. The weather proved to be as forecasted, dry periods with some intermittent heavy showers, this did not help the remainder of the field! As scores were posted it became clear the course was not playing at its easiest however, as usual there are always a few players who manage their games well and score well.
Apart from a few ‘glitches’ the day went quite well and all, once showered and changed, retired to the President’s Suite for the presentation and dinner. The dinner was very good tasty and plentiful for those who were ready to eat and, as far as I am aware, enjoyed by all. Short speeches were made by the President, Captain Phil Webb and the winner Steve Atkins. Once again I am very grateful for the support from Graham Ruth and his new business Bonjour Golf. Next up Captain’s Day at Ilfracombe GC, home course of Phil Webb and President’s Day next year is at Dainton Park GC.
Malcolm Jordain










