Thursday 17th Nov - FROGS Millenium
The eagerly awaited end of the season game over 9 holes to win the coveted Millenium Trophy.
A great turnout with over 20 Ladies playing, some great company and some great spot prizes
All credit to Annie and her loyal subjects, Lynne C, Lesley T and Glen who tirelessly promote and encourage Ladies through from the Academy onto the main course. Many Ladies that play regularly on the 18 holes, also play on a Thursday morning with the FROGS and offer support and encourage the newer players.
Nearest the pin on the 3rd, Gill S with Penny claiming nearest the pin on the 9th. Overall winner of the Millenium Trophy was the very talented Glen W.
Branston Ladies Golf Club
Staffs County Shield Winners
Another chance for a photo shoot of the victorious County Shield Winners and their caddies.
Finally we have the actually Shield at the Club and look forward to retaining the title next year
Left to right going up
Glen, Penny, Annie, Lesley, Lynne, Irene, Margaret
Front,
Me and Jenny
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| Saray, me, Sue and Penny |
A wonderful autumn morning and just time for a few photos
Thanks goodness
for the tree stump.........
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| Sarah, Gill and Penny |
After a long night at work, it was straight to the club for me and not enough time for a coffee before hand but looking foward to a lovely morning playing with Sarah T and Sue S.
However at the photo shoot, we were missing Sarah
She had very kindly gone to the Driving Range to pick up some coffe.
So many thanks to playing partner Sarah T who very kindly ensured I had a small caffeine intake to keep me going.
Sunday 12th November - TWLL MEWN UN
Turkey Shoot, Mixed Competition,
A toal of 17 teams playing in a great format which is always well supported.
My Team
Penny, Colin and Terry C playing with 10 shots. A great front 9 coming in level par with 36 points. We decided (well, self appointed Captain Colin decided), that that pars were no good and it had to be birdies.
So onward and upward to the 10th with Terry off first. As he was about to take his t shot, he casually remarked that the 10th is actually the ideal girly T shot as we should be able to get onto the green easily, as the mens T was so far back! He was swiftly reminded that he could at least try and get it on the green just in case, so without further ado, he duly rose to the challenge and obeyed without hesitation.
The result was a duffed T shot, thinned, hit with some force, which landed on the green and then travelled at speed towards the bunker at the back. No problem we thought, at least it wasn't short but the ball then hit the flag pole and landed abruptly in the hole.
His third TWLL MEWN UN, equalling the record by his good wife, however an experience never before seen by yours truly. The teams inability to rejoice in quiet resulted in shreaks of delight which I believe were heard as far away as the 15th (ask Jenny B! and she wasn't even playing)
The Winning Team
A great combination of Summer Pairs semi finalists Brian and Simon with the wonderfully talented combination of Donna and Nat keeping them on the straight and narrow.
They looked like they meant business with the team colours of red shirts over white and matching black trousers. (Apart from Simon who wore pink shorts and a lemon jumper)
A great score which was undoubtedly set as early as the 8th - a great chip by Donna from the 40 yards or so to clinch a birdie.
(Simon, shame on you for not mentioning that shot in your winning speech)
Sunday 23rd October - Matchplayers Day
16 Ladies,
4 T times,
2 Captains
1 Winning team 
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| The Famous Four, Which one is itching to put the Kiddies Fire Helmet on? |
A friendly, enjoyable game with Team Captains Mandy B and Chris Pe striving as always to win the coveted trophy. Again, a chance to learn matchplay rules and thanks to my playing partner Gill and our opponents Nat and Sarah.
Best shot of the day, Sarahs T shot on the 15th to within 4 ft of the pin
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| Nice pink ones for the girls.................. |
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| Colin, you're supposed to wear the yellow, not the pink................. |
Saturday 13th October - Branston Past Lady Captains
As the title suggests, a chance for some of Branstons finest to get together for a game and a meal afterwards. My thanks for the invite, as the Vice Captain I was invited to play but not eligable to win. However it was the taking part that counted and with my current form, there was no chance of that anyway. A lovely afternoon before a long night shift at work, made more enjoyable by the company of Carol A and Yvonne O.
Greatest saying of the year so far, undoubtedly from Yvonne on the 3rd (her T shot landed well into the trees on the right hand side of the bunker so she took about 5 clubs with her)
'you'd have thought with all these clubs I would at least scored a point'
No, she didnt......
Sunday 9th October - Rusty Duck
This is a strongly contested competition between Branston Staff and Branston Committee members which is taken very seriously by everyone playing. Not quite a walk over by any means for any team however it has been noted that for the past 5 years or so it probably has been, with the Staff winning each time.
The Rusty Duck Challenge has been won by Branston Staff for far too long, which is not too surprising considering that many on the staff payroll are professional golfers, or golfers that play off plus 2 maybe 3 or just play golf.....So it's no surprise that the result has been so one sided in recent years but even so, the Committe members who in fact play golf for pleasure, were victorious today in absolutely annihalting the Staff. And about time too.
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| Sarah, Me, Will and Nat |
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| Will, Mick, Me and Colin |
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| Will on the 2nd |
We were off last against the great pairing of Will playing off scratch and Mick W playing off 8. With 11 shots for Colin and 17 for me it had the makings of a very closely contested match (and it was)
A great T shot by Will on the 2nd landed just on the right hand edge of the green, never seen that before but a great view of the set up here.
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| A very happy Mr Vice on the 12th |
By the 17th it was all square with one to go. Both Will and Mick had some bad luck with their T shots and had to chip out so it was looking good for us as they were then both 3 over the water onto the green. With the waiting teams on the 19th, my nerves got the better of me and I hit my 3rd shot straight into the water and Colin went out of bounds with his 2nd shot. It was all over bar the shouting and we thought that we had lost the match but it didnt really matter, the Committe were already victorious, a 9 - 3 win.
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| Golf Director thinking the Staff has won, with a patient Mr Captain waiting to take the coveted prize |
Sunday 2nd October - Daily Mail Foursomes
More than 190,000 amateurs a year take part in the Daily Mail Foursomes, with over 3,000 pairs going on to represent their club in the first round. Every club in England, Scotland and Wales can enter a men's and women's foursomes team.
A special qualifying competition is usually played and enables higher handicappers to compete alongside more accomplished player however a club may decide to nominate a pair to represent it in the Tournament. Branston holds a qualifying competition each year and a good turnout considering the commitment that the winning pair have to make the following year if they progress through the competition
Brief Info on the Rounds next year
Sunday 25th September - Lady Captain v Lady Vice Captain
A great format for the end of the golfing season with 2 teams going head to head. Lady Captain, Sue D playing against her Vice Captain (me) in a format agreed by us both which was Full Stableford, Better Ball. A good turnout with 7 T times allocated and a chance for me to embed 14 Ladies with that ultra competitive streak that would result in a victory.....
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| The Winning Team |
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| Chris and Barbara |
However, they were only to be worn when walking between shots and on the green when they putt out. Strong winds and heavy rain meant the helmets were removed and stowed safely for immediate use on the putting green
Weather forecast was..........depends on which channel you watch.
So it was a fairly bright start to the day, but it looked like we might have to call it a day by the 9th.......
not really...........
we carried on and the sun shined brightly all the way to the end.
not really...........
we carried on and the sun shined brightly all the way to the end.
Thursday 15th Sept - Grand Stableford
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| Jo (left) and Margaret |
A total of 15 Ladies were eligable to play, these are the winners and runners up from the preceding seasons mid-week and weekend Stableford Competitions.
Some mixed weather reporting early that morning led me to believe a rather cold cloudy day with some rain, hence I decided to wear a pair of lightweight trousers.
Full marks to my playing partner Helen H who played in shorts (it doesnt happen very often) and disappointed I didnt get a photo.
Some good scores in, 2nd place was playing partner Helen with 39 and first Margaret with 40.
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| Playing partners, Jo and Margaret |
For some reason, I must have been looking at the wrong day and to my surprise, the day was sunshine, light breeze and sometimes quite muggy. I suffered in silence and chastised myself for not wearing a skort, however the sight of me in trousers on a warm day caused much concern to many Ladies who came to the conclusion that I was not well!!!!
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| Mr Captain John and Lady Capt |
Sunday 4th Sept - Lady Captains Day
Winner was Janet and Brian with 11 putts each (some fine tuning on the putting competition for next time)
The main competition was full Stableford with 'Power Play' on the back 9.
Prizes for best front 9, best back 9, plus numerous spot prizes for nearest the pin and nearest the squigly line ensured plenty of prizes for all.
A great day and relief all round when the sun came out. Hard work to arrange 1 Lady Captains Day but full credit to Sue as she had to arrange 2.
A great day and relief all round when the sun came out. Hard work to arrange 1 Lady Captains Day but full credit to Sue as she had to arrange 2.
See the links below for further information on Power Play
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PowerPlay_Golf
http://applauseeventsme.com/ceogolf/powerplay_golf.htm
More photos to follow.............
Thursday 1st September - Lady Captains Challenge
Lady Captains Sue D had meticulously planned todays challenge and this started with a briefing at 4pm on the patio, ready for a 5pm start.A total of 4 teams were ready each and waiting each given instructions on which specific holes to play. Armed with 2 buggies per team, a selection of clubs and an acme thunderer (whistle), it was as easy as that!!! Players already on the course had been advised that we would suddenly appear and graciously let us through because this was going to be a whirlwind game.
Speed golf is a new twist on the traditional sport, combining running!!! and golf. Speed golfers run between golf shots on a standard 18-hole course, the goal being to shoot the lowest score in the shortest amount of time. However for this competition, the lowest score wasn't part of the rules, it was just a matter of getting the ball from the t to the green as fast as possible. As soon as the putt was down, the whistle was blown which signified to the waiting player on the next tee to start.The group that had just finished then raced to their next hole ready and waiting.
Great fun watching everyone strutt their stuff and if you want to know more, then ask some of the players. It was so quick that there was no time to take any photo's however there is a great team photo on the 19th (picture to follow) My best memory is waiting halfway down the 18th with Sandra S waiting for Karl R to take the t shot. We could see Di H taking the t shot on the 7th, then Colin S and Phil G strategically placed on the fairway. Colin ran to the left of the fairway and hit the shot just into the trees on the left. As with every good team, the strategy was in place and the manoeveurs undertaken at this point would put any international football team to shame.
Phil showed his ability to multi task by:
1 - running towards the ball and at the same time
2 - making the decision to chip out and at the same time
3 - telling Colin where he was going to chip the ball to and at the same time
4 - chipping the ball out perfectly ready for the now out of breath Vice Captain to hit the ball onto the green.
A great day, much fun and a time of 26 minutes.
2 - making the decision to chip out and at the same time
3 - telling Colin where he was going to chip the ball to and at the same time
4 - chipping the ball out perfectly ready for the now out of breath Vice Captain to hit the ball onto the green.
A great day, much fun and a time of 26 minutes.
To see how its done, (professionally) see the link below
Monday 29th August - BH Fun Competition, Mixed Scramble
12 teams of 4 playing in another BH fun competition., the format consisted this year of 2 Ladies and 2 men. The very well organised Helen H issued each team with an empty margerine containing, inside an empty yoghurt pot, sweets, a dice and a comprehensive set of instructions. Teams of 4 played off 1 / 10th of their combined handicap, teams of 3 played off 1 / 6th combined handicap. Each player was nominated a number (1 - 3 or 4) and after each t shot was taken, a dice was thrown and the corresponding number indicated which t shot had to be taken. Numbers thrown that were not allocated meant that the team could then choose the t shot to take. The team could then choose which shot to take from there on.
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| Mandy, Stuart and Me |
My team were reduced to 3 due to some last minute cancellations however not to be fazed by this, my playing Mandy and Stuart B were fired up and ready to go.
We had a great strategy (or should I say team captain Mandy had a great strategy) and true to form, with a total of 8 shots, we birdied the 2 par 5/s and parred the rest of the front 9. The back 9 was looking good and we struck lucky with every throw of the dice until the 13th.
A stray t shot from me into the trees on the left was followed by my number being thrown on the dice, we needed to get the ball down in 4 but managed a 5.
A stray t shot from me into the trees on the left was followed by my number being thrown on the dice, we needed to get the ball down in 4 but managed a 5.
The brilliance and distance of Mr B's fairway shots are undoubtedly worthy of a mention and as a result came in with a gross 60.8 to take 3rd place, pipped at the post by 60.4 in second and the winners coming in with 59.5.
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| They called themselves the 'Dream Team' |
Team looking good from the left but looks like the Lady Player in Pink has drawn the short straw with the 2 on the right............
Saturday 27th August - Ladies Major, Paul Winship Trophy
Another popular Ladies Competition with 20 playing Ladies playing. My playing partners were Helen D and Barbara K and a mixed forecast of sunshine and showers.
After some very wet weather overnight, we all settled quickly into our game and braced ourselves for the rain that was forecast again that afternoon.
We had some fun as can only be expected, got wet, dried off then got wet again.I had a great front 9 coming in with 45, then 51 on the back 9.
A nett 72 ensured I won my first single Major however the standard scratch of 76 resulted in another 2 shots off my handicap, taking me down to 22.
Sunday 21st August - Andy Dughan Trophy |
| Bec, Me and Barbara |
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| Winners - Jenny, with Nancy, Rita and Chris |
Nancy always buys the prizes for the winners and has only missed one presentation due to ill health. She is a very sprightly lady with a liking for expensive shoes and has a wicked sense of humour.
I asked her what she wanted to drink when she arrived so when she asked for a whisky, straight, with a glass of water, I knew that we would get on.
There are still a few members and very few Ladies that remember Andrew, but Nancy can rest assured that all the while we play this competition, his name will live on in the hearts of the those at Branston Golf Club.
Sunday 14th August - Mixed Major, Suzanne Milner
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| Me, Steve, Cherry and Brian |
Another popular mixed competition, format is 4BBB medal.
A total of 35 couples played, again with some good weather. We were off last with the great Steve W and steady Cherry. We had a good (ish) front 9 but lost it a little over 2 or 3 holes on the back but came in with 72.
Some great scores ahead of us, with the winners, Gill and Roger coming in with 64.
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| Roger and Gill |
Our running battle with Mr Vice and Mr Vices wife meant it was us who had to pay over the obligatory £5 losers fee. (one all at the moment)
See the men if you want to know what this is all about and also what they're betting on next year when we do a bit of wife / husband swapping!!!!!!!
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| Mr Captain, waiting to assist with the Presentation - (someone go and get Gok............) |
Tuesday 9th August - Branston Ladies Away day at Morley Hayes
A total of 14 Ladies played, 2 x 3 balls and 2 x 4 balls. My playing partners Di H, Pam G and myself had a great time meandering across the fairways, in and out of bunkers. Apart from nearly taking out Lady Captain on the 5th & 7th, the day went perfectly well and all credit to Sue for her impeccable organisation. Some well deserved Pimms at the halfway house and a great evening meal ensured the day was a great success and was topped with Barbara K showing everyone how to make paper lilies from serviettes.
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| Pimms at the Halfway House |
A couple of spot prizes for nearest the pin and nearest the squigly line meant everyone had a chance of winning but Sue made sure that everyone went home with a little goody bag.
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| Me and Sue, Lady Captain |
I had a great game and came in with 40 Stableford to win the match.
A handicap cut to 24 was inevitable but alas, I've lost my place in the final of the County Shield as the handicap for players is 25 and above.
However, there are many other fine Ladies that will no doubt take the coveted crown for Branston later in October.
Sunday 7th August - Ladies Stableford
Ladies Stableford, few playing today but not such a good round with 29 stableford. Weather was very changeable and probably would have come in after the front 9 but stuck it out for the practice as a busy few days coming up.Wedding Anniversary but one has to have a game......
Saturday 6th August, Presidents Day
A great turnout with 23 Ladies playing and 158 Gents. Congratulations to Ann B with a great score of 45 and a handicap reduction but also a few scores into the 40's for the Gents. Came a respectable 6th with 35 and had a great time
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| Me, Dave, Chris, Sarah, Jane |
Sunday 31st July - Rose and Thorns
An excellent turnout of 36 teams playing. The format is 1 Lady, 2 Gents playing off maximum of 30 and 18 respectively. Best 2 scores to counts, with all scores to count on the par 3's.
Some great teams and it was anyones for the taking. A beautiful, hot, sunny summers day, my 2 Thorns were Brian and Ron D. (See '2011 My year as Vice Captain" for an few words on Rons form a few days before this competition)
A great start for us, great shot by Brian on the 4th. His T shot didnt make the fairway directly in front of the clearing but 2nd shot landed on the green finished off by 2 putts for a par. As the saying goes 'its not about the shot you've just taken, its about the shot you're about to take'
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| Brian, Me and Ron |
We slightly fell off target on the 5th and 6th before picking it up and staying steady for the rest of the game to come in with 93. A nil score on the 17th was a disappointment and the 18th didnt start too well either. My t shot didnt make the stream, my 2nd shot went a good distance down the fairway but the shot over the water was too much and went out of bounds into the waiting arms of Mick W on the patio.
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| Glen, Victory Speech |
No score for me, Brians T shot went into the ditch on the right, chipped out then landed the next shot a few feet from the pin to putt out in 4. It was Ron who ended up taking the team shot of the day. His 2nd shot went into the Captains Bunker and was well and truly plugged into the softest sand we've ever seen. A packed crowd on the patio watched with baited breath to see the resulting shot which was nothing short of brilliance and landed a few feet from the pin. (He missed the putt for the par but we wont go there.)
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| A proud Jim, eagerly waiting to celebrate |
The winners with a great score of 98 and were led by the wonderful Glen W who looked stunning in turquoise, ready for a night of celebration with hubby Jim
Another Ladies Major, this time a Par / Bogey Competition.
Congratulations to Fiona B who won with 1 up and to Annabelle coming in second all square.
Not a good day for me, 9 down - not sure where it all went wrong. All square, level at the 7th but apart from a 5 on the 11th it was downhill all the way. Great company though with Helen, Glen and Lesley.
Nice to see Audrey again, will get a photo next time....
SUNDAY 10th JULY - Club Championship, Day 2
Day 2 and at the Club again around 08.00 and managed to get in some more practice on the Driving Range. Due to the result from Day 1, my playing partners were Rita, Rachael and Helen. Not a good front 9 for me with a 10 on the millenium and after hitting a 47 on the front 9 the day before, I was very disappointed with a 55 today.
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| Fiona, Club Champ, Victory Speech |
With a few minutes to regroup and give myself a pep talk at the halfway house, I had a better back 9 coming in with 49, 2 shots less than the previous day.
A very long 2nd day but a great experience to play a competiton over 2 days and my combined scores were enough to clinch the net with a 72 and 78 on the Saturday and Sundary respectively and a handicap cut to 25.1.
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| Me and Fiona, Net and Gross Winners |
Many congratulations to Fiona Briggs, 2nd year as Ladies Club Champion and a great 2nd shot onto the 18th green and a birdy to finish.
Probably the best day of the year at the Club, the Best of Branston gents playing onto the 18th in front of a packed terrace around 6.30 pm.
SATURDAY 9th JULY - Club Championship, Day 1
Both the Ladies and Gents are played over 2 consecutive days, mainly due to the large number of participants for the Gents competition. The Ladies started at midday with a total of 15 playing, and the Gents started around 7.30am with over 100 playing. Both the Gents and Ladies have a Gross and Net prize, so the net was my reason for playing. I arrived at the club around 8.00am with Brian as he was off at 09.00 and with a few hours to go, decided to have a swim and sauna before some loosening up on the Driving Range.
My playing partners for the first day were Penny and Annie and we had a very relaxed 4 ish hours. I was using my sand iron and pitching wedge with confidence so the hours of practice had started to pay off. A couple of holes that were not too good, an 8 on the 5th and 9 on the 14th due to a bad tee shot into the trees on the left.
However, by the end of the game, a net 72 (gross 98) after Day 1 and a handicap cut to 25.1
SUNDAY 2nd JULY - Charity Day
The Club Charity this year is a local charity called Stepping Stones, which is a support Group for children with Downs Syndrome and a very well supported day by both the Golf and Gym members. The competition was Stableford with a 154 Gents and 28 Ladies playing. There is the usual tombola with ample prizes for everyone, plus the book and cake stall, all of which raised a good sum for the Captains Charity.
The Gym Team also completed the Log Challenge as usual in style. My playing partners were Mandy B, Suzy E and Helen D, off last around 1.20. I had a great front 9, coming in with 23 stableford points and the back 9 was going great guns - 35 points by the 15th when I hit my tee shot into the Trent. It went downhill literally from there and I didnt score again until the 18th with a point to finish.
Where did it go wrong? Not sure, the jury is still out on that one but a great score for my playing partner Helen. There was no stopping her and she came in with the winning score of 43, with a cut from 28 to 25.
Well done, Helen. It was a pleasure to mark your card.
SATURDAY 18th JUNE - Captains Day
One of the most popular competitions of the year, very well supported by the Men and Ladies alike. Ladies play between 12 and 1, full Stableford however this is a Major Competition for the men so its Medal for them.
A lovely game for me with Lady Past It Sandra H, Chris Pa and Lesley D.
Sandra and I had a great front 9 both at 19 points on the turn. I had a couple of No Returns on the back but still managed to come in with 17 on the back 9 giving me a total of 36. Not sure what happened but I lost it after the 16th, with no returns on the 17th and 18th.
A great win for Mandy B with 38 followed by Nat A on 37 and Sandra H 3rd, also on 37.
A total of 4 Ladies including myself came in with 36.
See photo of Mr Captain John O, with proud mum Wendy at the halfway house.
PLUS - Graham Tweed was 50, Lovely picture of Owen Tweed, ready and waiting to celebrate Dads birthday ON THE Branston Club Members page.
I think the tab is still open if anyone has missed it..............
TUESDAY 14th JUNE - Monthly Stableford
A lovely day and played the Stableford with Fi around 14.30.
Had a good steady round and parred the 6th for the first time. Not sure why I did it but very rarely go for the green on my second shot. I normally hit an iron to the front of the green, chip on and then aim for 2 putts. This time, because my chipping has been so abysmal (topping or slicing the ball), I decided that I would play a shot straight onto the green which would save me a chip.
Seemed to work on this hole so I tried this again on the 9th and 12th.............worked a treat.
We both came 2nd in our Division, a nett 76 for me.
SUNDAY 12th JUNE - Husband and Wife
Competition is as the title suggests, Foursomes Stableford and a very popular one with over 20 couples taking part.
A very wet and windy day from the start, not the best conditions to play a Major but we all struggled through till the bitter end. It was so wet that even the ducks were seen swimming on the 12th............
Many congratulations to Rachel and Chris Smith for taking the top slot with an excellent 39 and Stuart and Mandy Belcher for second.
SATURDAY 11th JUNE - The Willdig Shield
This is a regular Club Competition which I believe was first played when Chris S was Lady Captain so that must be around 10 - 15 years ago. The format is full handicap Par / Bogey with a total of 23 Ladies playing today, lowest handicap 5 and highest at 36.
My playing partners were Desley (plays off 12) Wendy W (31) and Fiona B (5)
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| Maisie, Me |
We had a great game with Wendy and Fiona coming in at level par (Fi was 2 up by the 15th!!!), Desley came in with 2 up and me with 3 up. It was looking good for me to retain the Shield that I won this time last year but a worthy winner in Maisie S pipped me to the post with plus 4. She was level par on the front 9 and stormed in on the back 9 to take 1st place.
Well done Maisie, a great score by you and a good week for you following your trip to Oxley Park on Monday. We've both been docked, Maisie 32 - 30 and me 27 to 26
SUNDAY 5th JUNE - Mixed, The Deakin Trophy
A very popular mixed competition, Foursomes stableford Major with a total of 38 couples playing. We had a great day with our playing partners Sarah and Tim K, we came in 17th with 33 points. Sarah played a steady game and was very consistent with her chipping onto the green. Tim hits monster tee shots landing consistently on the fairway.
My lovely husband has seen better days, so he's packed himself off to the driving range for the rest of the week to prepare for the Husband and Wife on 12th June which iis another very popular mixed Major and is restricted entry as the name implies. However, a secondary competition takes place immediately after the happy couples play, and includes those that play together regularly or those that have yet to tie the knot, this is very aptly named 'Him N Her'
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| Steve, Monica and Helen |
After todays performance by my wayward but wonderful husband, I was indeed tempted to file for divorce and remarry within a week. However a proposal from Peter Past It to spend the next 7 days with him so we could qualify in the Him N Her, prompted me swiftly to forgive and forget......plus, there is the small matter of the Trophy to defend. (We won last year, coming in with 43, just pipping Pam and Roger G on a better back 9. Will be a strong field this year with many more couples, fighting it out for the coveted prize)
Back to The Deakin Trophy, many congratulations to Helen H and Steve W, overall winners with 42 points.
Looking forward to another Fun Competition but rain stopped play. The course wasnt closed but too much rain water on the greens meant the competition was cancelled.
However, a very happy Helen H was seen leaving the club house around midday with a boot full of wine which was originally ear marked for the winners I believe!!!!
FRIDAY 20th MAY - Whackers Just 9 holes today with Michael and Leon (Brian otherwise engaged) Michael is the ex Junior Club Captain from Burton Golf Club, now a member at Branston. Came in contented with 17 points but beaten hands down by Glen W who came in with a wonderful 24. Well done......Many thanks to Michael for the liquid refreshement which was duly handed out by the 3rd
SUNDAY 22nd MAY - Jen Tatum, Ladies Major
The 2nd Ladies Major of 2011 with a great turnout of 28 Ladies.Very windy, some sunshine, a little rain but great company in the form of Helen D and Glen W.
Well done to Helen, Lady Past It from 2009 who won the competition again this year with 37
Came in third with 34, just pipped by Glen into 3rd place on a better back 9.
FRIDAY 13th MAY - Whackers
A fun 9 hole competition run every Friday by Mick and Wendy W. £2 per person, best Stableford for the Gents, Ladies and the usual Birdy pot.
Both started well then went down hill by the 5th. Lots of heavy rain by the 9th and the good intention we had of completing the full 18 holes went out the window as early as the 7th.
Fingers crossed for a dryer Saturday and Sunday but alas, its not looking too good.
A great evening thought at the Unicorn, Newton Solney. Thanks to Foxy for arranging and look forward to the next one.....
SATURDAY 14th MAY - Ladies Stableford
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| Lesley, Me and Fi |
Played at 12:50 with Fiona and Lesley M.
Today was also a Gents Competition, the Bernard Neale however the Ladies always have an hours slot between midday and 1pmHad a really good game and won with 39 stableford so its a cut to 26.4 for me and losing a shot on the 16th.
As usual, some great shots by current club champion Fi with 2 birdies and a steady game by Lesley especially on the front 9.
SUNDAY 8th MAY - Mixed Bedford Trophy
A very popular competition, the first Major of the year and a nice format to start the season.
Greensome, stableford Gents min of 18 and Ladies min of 30 playing a percentage of their combined handicap. We had 22 shots between us and had a lovely game with Desley and Mick
We started well on the front 9 and by the turn had 22 points.
A great score on the 4th for Jim and Susan B - an eagle
Well done to the winners, Max and Kirsty.
A lovely winning speech by Max watched by proud parents Nat and Mike. (Great tip; Max prepared his speech and its discreetly tucked into his cap!!)
SATURDAY 7th MAY - The May Trophy
The May Trophy is a Medal for both the Gents and Ladies. A windy day with some rain forecast but generally very warm. Tee time for me was 12:40, a 3 ball with Glen W and Helen D. Many congratulations to the winners, Gents - Max Atkin and Ladies - Sandra S. Also well done to Wendy W who came in 2nd.
THURSDAY 5th MAY - Gents Summer Pairs
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| Ron, Mike, Tweedy, Foxy |
Just about to leave the club and caught a glimse of Ron, Foxy, Mike and Tweedy playing their match for the Summer Pairs.
As usual, they all glady posed for a photo on the first tee especially Mike who was in his new designer 'shell suit'
Update: Winners Mike and Tweedy
FRIDAY 29th APRIL - GreenKeepers Revenge What a way to celebrate the Royal Wedding. This was the day that the Green Keepers certainly had their revenge,
- pins in awkward, not always legal positions
- tee markers pointing in the wrong direction
- beer barrel, wiggly lines and circles on the Fairways
The Whackers Special was a really enjoyable 9 hole fun comp, you had to be there to experience the fun and fingers crossed, we can persuade Mick, Wendy and Phil to repeat this memorable day. Congratulations to all the winners:
1st Division - Evan O'Dell with 17 points on a BB6 best Gross with a score of 43 (although I think his Grandad had his eye on the Champagne Evan won for this),
2nd Division - Josh Wilson with 19 points
Ladies - Ann Bishop with 19 points.
Wooden Spoon - In every comp there must be a loser and this award went to D. Lievesley with a score of 3 who won 2 digi cards ( but we'll say no more about that) !!
13 lucky Birdie winners - £16 for each birdie
Spot prizes:
1st hole - Dave L - 7 pints of beer
2nd hole - Joe D - Nestle Hamper full of coffee, chocolate, biscuits and cereals.
3rd hole - Andy E - 2 personal Training sessions & a Massage (Simon Wheatcroft)
4th hole - Gill S - 2 Branston Experience vouchers
5th hole - Glynn H - a 9 hole playing lesson with Steve Hadfield
6th hole - Gill S - a £75 voucher off a meal for 4 at the Winery
7th hole - Jon O - £100 voucher to spend at Barton Fields Garden Centre
8th hole - Mick L - A Nike Sports package from ACE sports
9th hole - A. P - a Sunday Brunch for 4 at BGCC
Glen W and Scot P won the prize draw, a bag of golf goodies.
A great day was had by all and a total of £135 was raise for the club charity.
(Thanks for Wendy W for the update)
(Thanks for Wendy W for the update)
THURSDAY 28th APRIL - Ladies Stableford
Instead of booking our own tee times, Ladies were able to put their names down for a drawn stableford which was a nice change.
My playing partners were Jenny E and Pauline G.
Again another lovely day, Jenny often hitting a monster tee shot and Pauline plays a sweet, safe game, hardly ever topping the ball but coming in with some good scores.
The Perry Cup
MONDAY 25th APRIL - International Mixed Fun Competition (Birdied 1st)
A very well support day, tems of 4- usually 1 lady and 3 gents - each playing for either England, Ireland, Scotland or Wales. Lady Captain took this game seriously and brought a Welsh flag for each of her teams. Over 70 played with approx 18 tee times booked, starting at midday
So my opponents were Lady Captain playing for Wales, Roger W for Scotland, Mr Captain for England and me for Ireland, first off at 12.00pm
Lovely hot day and a good start for me as I birdied the first. First hole of the day with only 1 shot and its usually a 5 or 6 for me so well please with the birdy.
Again, extremely well organised by Helen H and a great win for the Irish. Best 12 scores to count and I believe we thrashed the opposition.
Well done for Nat A, over 40 points with 3 no returns and quite rightly, cut to 29 at long last.
Mr Captain, John O hit a tee shot on the 8th which landed in a rather odd place. (see picture)
Probably a shot never to be repeated but
we had some fun and so glad I had the
camera phone with me
SUNDAY 17th APRIL, Cygnet and Swans
A popular match, again Match Play where the Swans (over 55 I think) play against a team of Cygnets. My playing partner Nat A and myself (Cygnets) were pitched last against there more mature Swans namely Rita B and Wendy W.
A lovely day, hot and sunny and just right for topping up the tan. One of my best games to date this year, my lessons learnt from Jake starting to show. The 8th saw my t shot and subsequent fairway shot at the 150 yard marker, I've never been that far before.
Didnt go for the green on my 3rd shot but probably should have, just to see if it would have made it.
Another day maybe..........
SATURDAY 16th APRIL - Captain v Lady Captain
This is one of the prestigious prizes in the golfing calender and is taken as seriously as any other major competition. There are only 16 t times available, 2 ladies against 2 gents, matchplay. Great experience to play matchplay again - Desley played off scratch, Colin 2 shots, Brian 4 shots and I had 11 shots.
Simple: Win a hole, that's one for you; lose a hole, that's one for your opponent. Ties essentially don't count; they aren't kept track of in the scorekeeping.
Back to the Match: The order of play is a closely guarded secret however, it is understood that the gentlemen infiltrated the ladies locker room prior to the match. It can only assumed this was to use the team pairings to their advantage or alternatively for some other reason only known to themselves......
My playing partner Desley was on tremendous form, elegant and inspiring as always, solid and dependable. Our opponents, Vice Captain Colin S and other half Brian T, also dazzled at times and it has to be said, displayed some moments of brilliance but alas, were still beaten by the better pair.
The resulting 10 - 6 win in favour of the gents has only inspired the Ladies section to ensure that this is not repeated next year and will do whatever it takes to see Mr Captain present the Trophy to the triumphant Ladies
Terminology that I had not heard of before in Match Play is 'dormie' A match-play match is said to be "dormie" when one of the players achieves a lead that matches the holes remaining (i.e., 3 holes up with 3 holes to play), thus assuring himself of at least a halve. The player who is trailing can only hope to tie in regulation, but cannot win. When a match reaches this state, it is said to "go dormie" or to have "gone dormie." The player in the lead has "taken the match dormie."
TUESDAY 12th APRIL - Ladies Medal
Shame to waste the day after an enjoyable morning with the Rabbits (see details on Club Events) so Fiona joined me later in the afternoon and we played in the midweek monthly medal.
I met a great lady in the shape of Doreen after the presentation to the Rabbits, Doreen is the SCLGA Secretary and has been playing golf for 50 years. She recalled her memories of the club from years gone by and also some stories about our mutual friend Audrey. A lovely picture with a lovely lady which is on the above tab and look forward to seeing her in the summer when she visits Branston to play in the Veterans which is run by Gill S.
A couple of birdies for Fiona with at least 3 more chances but just missed the putt.
One of my best games this year and at last getting some distance with that driver and 4 wood. Messed up on the 18th though.
Fi waited patiently for me after putting her 2nd shot onto the green. My t shot went into the ditch on the right, the chip out went over to the other ditch on the left. The shot out of the ditch hit the back and went back in, then the shot out went right over the the left by the willow.
Finally ended with an 8 and so glad the patio was empty....
SUNDAY 10th APRIL - Matchplayers Day
A drawn competiton with 2 teams competing hotly for the coveted prize of an 'engraved egg cup' |
| Helen, Rachel, Me, Carol |
Not my best game but one of the most enjoyable days.
It was great to see the Marshalls out and taking notice of everything that was happening on the course especially Michael who pointed out that he preferred the skirt I wore the previous day as it was shorter than the one I was wearing.
SUNDAY 3rd APRIL - Spring Greensomes
Lots of mums enjoying lunch in the club today and also some mums in the Greensomes looking forward to a meal out with family later in the day at it was Mothers Day.
SUNDAY 3rd APRIL - Spring Greensomes
Lots of mums enjoying lunch in the club today and also some mums in the Greensomes looking forward to a meal out with family later in the day at it was Mothers Day.
Penny couldn't make it so Donna played with me and we had another great day. Again some lovely shots especially those t shots.
This was Donnas first competition and hopefully wont be her last. Playing partners were Barbara K, Gill T, just beat them by the one point.
Well done to Fiona and Natalie who came in with a resounding 38 points.
SATURDAY 2nd APRIL - Ladies Medal
A long day at the club for me. Lesley has an inactive handicap so we needed to play in the Medal today to give her another card alongside the Stableford we played in.
SATURDAY 2nd APRIL - Ladies Medal
A long day at the club for me. Lesley has an inactive handicap so we needed to play in the Medal today to give her another card alongside the Stableford we played in.
We played at 07:20 and were joined on the front 9 only by 2 other golf members, Kev and Dave. Not easy, playing a medal in a four ball AND with 2 men but they were very courteous and waited patiently while we concentrated to play out each hole.
We both finished with respectable scores then I played again at 12:48 with Penny, Si and Fiona.
I'd already played in the Medal so this was a chance for me to have a chilled round and get some shots on the fairway with my 3 wood instead of using my safe, reliable 4 wood.
Brian played in the Branston Masters at 11:40 so only had a couple of hours or so before I finally came off the course.
THURSDAY 31st MARCH - Ladies Stableford
Off at 4pm with Lesley M and Donna. Cutting it a little fine to get the 18 in but Lesley needed this to get her cards in before the competitions start, plus it was nice for Donna to start playingin the monthly Stablefords.
We just about managed to get to the 18th by around 7:40pm THURSDAY 31st MARCH - Ladies Stableford
Off at 4pm with Lesley M and Donna. Cutting it a little fine to get the 18 in but Lesley needed this to get her cards in before the competitions start, plus it was nice for Donna to start playingin the monthly Stablefords.
SUNDAY 27th MARCH - Ladies Stableford
1st Stableford of the year and played with Donna H and Sue S and had a lovely afternoon.
Not as cold as Saturday but didn’t come in with any ground breaking scores. I’ve gone up 0.1 to 27.5 so playing now off 28, with a shot back on the 16th.
Following my lesson that morning, I found that I was hitting the ball further off the tee as well as off the fairway but definitely need the practice to keep the swing and momentum going.
Donna played really well and hit some lovely shots. Definitely one to watch for the coming year! We’re playing together in the Spring Greensomes on Sunday 3rd April so looking forward to that one. Brian played just after us in a four ball with Simon, Brian M and Lesley M. Haven’t met Brian and Lesley before but have seen them early on a Saturday morning, early birds as well.
It will be nice to see Lesley playing in some of the Ladies Competitions this year as she is just getting her cards in. We’re playing in the mid week Stableford on Thursday 31st March and the Medal on Saturday 2nd April so she will be all ready for the coming season.
MONDAY 21st MARCH - Mixed Seniors Trophy
MONDAY 21st MARCH - Mixed Seniors Trophy
The other one is the Spring Mixed Seniors Trophy and we were both looking forwad to playing again. Brian's t time was 10:40 and mine just before at 10:16
 |
| George, Lesley, Mike and Me |
I had a great team again, Lesley T and 2 wonderful gentlemen who said that if we forgot their names we could just remember them by their alter ego's, Mike Tyson and George Clooney!!
One definately doesnt look like muscle bound world champion boxer and the other may have
the looks, charisma and style of a hollywood icon but is only about 4ft tall.....
SATURDAY 19TH MARCH - Captains Drive In
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| A packed 19th.... |
What a great start to the weekend. After 4 lovely hot weeks in Goa, it was finally here and the weather was perfect. Clear blue skies, no wind and the sun shining brightly.
My orders from Lady Captain was to be at the Academy by 1100am to change. Sue had perfected the Maggie Smith look even down to the scary hat and persuaded John O to fulfil his lifelong ambition to dress up as a schoolboy, a very striking Harry Potter.
I wasn’t quite sure what Colin would come as, but Hagrad was a good bet however the resemblance to Snape was uncanny. As for me, Hermione was a good choice as I already had a schoolgirls outfit from a previous New Years Eve party.
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| John, Sue, Colin and Me |
So by 11.15 we were all ready in the buggies and made our way from the 18th tee down towards the clubhouse. It was a great experience and one which I will be looking forward to repeating next year.
‘The Captains Drive In’ is the traditional start to the new golfing season for the 2 new Captains for that year. Captain and Lady Captain decide on the format, in recent years this has been a Texas scramble with a shotgun start. Teams are mixed with 5 players per team.
The Captains and their Vice Captains (usually in fancy dress and usually decided by the Lady Captain,) drive in a buggy down the 18th fairway from tee to green and are greeted by all members who congregate on the terrace. Each new Captain ‘drives’ 3 balls each from the back of the 18th green down the fairway towards the 18th tee.
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| Colin and Me |
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| Sue, taking the perfect T shot |
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| Steve, Andrew, Me, Richard and Colin |
My team of Colin, Steve W, Andrew G and Richard P came in 3rd, a great fun day and ...
yes we did have to overrule our team captain a couple of times when deciding who's tee shot to take.
SUNDAY 6TH FEBUARY - Captains Farewell Mixed
The Captains Farewell is a drawn, mixed Competition, usually 1 Lady and 3 Gents.
Not quite sure what happened with the draw but my team eventually ended up with just me and Simon L so instead of playing the format which was a Turkey Shoot, we played Greensomes.
I think I could describe Lamby as quite particular and I was frequently chastised for not cleaning my golf balls after finishing each hole.
Needless to say, a great experience to say the least, we birdied the 4th and 14th and were the only 2 ball playing
SUNDAY 30TH JANUARY - Ladies Winter Greensomes
SUNDAY 30TH JANUARY - Ladies Winter Greensomes
First Ladies Comp of the year and played with Penny S in the Ladies Winter Greensomes, playing partners were Nat A and Fiona B
Such a good day, we all had a wonderful time and as usual it was a pleasure to watch Fiona who plays off 5 and is the current Branston Ladies Champion.
Such a good day, we all had a wonderful time and as usual it was a pleasure to watch Fiona who plays off 5 and is the current Branston Ladies Champion.
A great format, both Penny and I played off 30, 3 extra for me which was a bonus and very comfortable for Pen.
Nat was great and took command, telling Fi whos drive they were taking.
Fi took everything in her stride as usual and did as she was told.
.
A great result, we came in with 45 points a piece but they pipped us on the back 9 to come in 2nd
Worthy winners of the day were Glen W and Barbara K with an fantastic 24 on the back 9 to take the title.
SUNDAY 16th JANUARY - Captains Mixed Competition
Worthy winners of the day were Glen W and Barbara K with an fantastic 24 on the back 9 to take the title.
SUNDAY 16th JANUARY - Captains Mixed Competition
Mixed Teams, Stableford, Best 2 scores to count.
My team off at 11:12, Mick W, Mal B and Keith M
MONDAY 10TH JANUARY - Barbara Stone Trophy
The competiton was postponed from early December due to bad weather and is a Seniors Mixed Competition with a maximum of 48 players, 8 teams of 4 - 2 gents and 2 ladies.Played with Dave J (handicap secretary , Gill T and Billy C.
We all had our moments but persevered to win the Trophy, my first Seniors match with a win and a lovely cut glass bowl to show for it.
A very enjoyable day with prizes for everyone and run with precision engineering by Mitzi M who told the obligatory naughty joke during the prize giving.We all had our moments but persevered to win the Trophy, my first Seniors match with a win and a lovely cut glass bowl to show for it.
Brians teams came in further down the line and he won 4 cans of lagar.........
