News & Results

Autumn Meeting – Haverhill Golf Club - Friday 22th September 2023

The Association Autumn meeting was held at Haverhill Golf Club on Friday 22nd September 2023 with 30 Captains & Past Captains turning out to play for the Millennium Salver, combining scores from the Spring meeting and the Autumn meeting, the individual Stableford competition which is the Peter Grieve Trophy and the team competition playing for the Belle Trophy won in 2022 by the Fynn Valley team at Southwold Golf Club.

After a light lunch and a welcome address from Peter McClennan, Haverhill Captain 2023, the first group teed off at 1130 with the sun shining and the course in immaculate condition. Apart from a couple of quick showers, playing conditions were ideal for some good scoring.

Safe in the knowledge that Fynn Valley were going to relinquish the trophy they have held for the previous two years (only 2 players this year), would home advantage favour the Haverhill members?

Following the golf, an excellent 2 course meal was enjoyed by all before John Pywell thanked everyone at Haverhill Golf Club for being excellent hosts throughout the day. The Belle Trophy was again conspicuous by its absence but has since been found and will be delivered to Haverhill Golf Club.

Results:
Peter Grieve Trophy
1st - Andrew Cornish 37pts
2nd - Nigel Popper 36pts countback
3rd - Ade Gipson 36pts

Millenium Salver
1st - Tony Dartnell 43 – 33 76pts
2nd - Garry Clark 39 – 34 73pts
3rd - Brian Welton 33 – 36 70pts

Belle Trophy
1st - Haverhill 100pts
2nd - Bury St Edmunds 94pts

Captain’s v Lady Captain’s at Seckford Golf Club on Monday 14th August 2023

The weather set fair, we gathered for a light lunch at Seckford Golf Club prior to our annual fixture against the Ladies. It was apparent from the pre-match chat the Ladies were intent on winning back the Skevington Bowl. Birgitta and Sheila had taken over from Sally and Denise as joint organisers for the Ladies and they seemed equally competitive. However, as it was our home fixture, men off yellow tees and ladies off red tees with no courtesy shots was agreed. I think it may be different again next year??

The course was in good condition and we were made very welcome by all the staff at Seckford. In President John’s absence, the team was led off by Steve Finch & Keith Ribbans. The shots they were giving the opposition proved too much in the end losing narrowly on the 17th. However, a revival over the next four games gave us two wins and two halves. Despite losing the final game, we retained the Skevington Bowl with a 3 – 3 drawn match.

Results:

Steve Finch & Keith Ribbans – lost
Andrew Cornish & Paddy Lockwood – halved
Ken Stuart & Graham Denny – won
Mark Tibbenham – Derek Charlwood – won
Peter Mallinson – Nigel Kerridge – halved
Joe Maloney & James Douglas-Hamilton – lost

The atmosphere following the game gave the impression that the day was enjoyed by everyone. The food was excellent and the banter first class. Steve thanked Seckford Golf Club and the SLPPC for making this a most enjoyable fixture. Thanks to everyone for making yourselves available.

President’s Day at Hintlesham Golf Club, Monday 17th July 2023 – Monday 17th July 2023

The Association of Suffolk Golf Captains held the annual President’s Day meeting at Hintlesham Golf Club on Monday 17th July 2023. Unfortunately, our President, John Pywell was unwell therefore unable to attend his big day. A field of 62 signed up for the day including 16 guests from the teams who we play matches against throughout the season. It was apparent that a few of the Suffolk golfers looked a bit weary following their Hambro/Tolly fixtures the previous day.

Following a light lunch and a few concerns about isolated rain showers in the air, the assembled golfers set out to their respective starting holes ready for a 1pm start. The rain clouds blew over leaving ideal conditions for playing golf. The course was in excellent condition and, despite the greens being heavily watered, this did not prevent some unbelievable scoring. The format was a ‘Pairs’ better ball off 85% of the course handicap which made the scoring even more remarkable.

Winners were Allan Holmes & Ian Howlett from Rookery Park GC with 48 points. They were obviously intent on improving on their second place from the previous year. Second place went to Paddy Lockwood & Andrew Johnson from Newton Green GC with 45 points on countback from Tony Dartnell, Diss GC & Ken Stuart, Stowmarket GC.

Guest prize went to Clive Bassindale & Phil Farrow from Bedfordshire with 43 points on countback from Graeme Cowie & Gordon Cartwright from Norfolk.

Nearest the pin on the 4th was Rob Sherington
Nearest the pin on 6th was Garry Clark
Nearest the pin on 10th was Graeme Cowie
Nearest the pin on 15th was Peter McLennan

Following an excellent meal, the prizes were presented by Brian Kemp who also thanked everyone for supporting the event. What and great day and thanks to Hintlesham Golf Club for hosting this successful day.

Suffolk Golf Captains v Norfolk Golf Captains at Rookery Park Golf Club – Thursday 6th July 2023

The eagerly anticipated local ‘derby’ against our near neighbours was hosted by us at Rookery Park GC. The weather was again extremely kind with the sun shining brightly throughout the day. Following the usual lunch time fayre of bacon rolls & coffee, the teams were introduced and scorecards handed out. “How many shots are we giving” could be heard from around the clubhouse!!!

We were led off today by our Vice President Brian Kemp playing with Bill Darling and they proved too strong for Gordon Cartwright (President) and his playing partner Keith Whiting. This was quickly followed by 2 more victories making us confident the trophy was on its way back to Suffolk. Brig Archer and Derek Charlwood were instructed by their opponents not to mention their score and I am not about to change this (not likely). The afternoon took a turn for the worse as the next 4 groups lost, leaving it once again dependent on the final game. Keith Ribbans and John Hopwood won their game but the match ended 4 – 4 meaning Norfolk retained the trophy as holders. John Reed claimed victory for Suffolk in the ‘nearest the pin’ on the 9th hole. His tee shot came to rest inside 3’ from the hole. Please read on to see if sank the putt?

Brian Kemp presenting the trophy to Gordon Cartwright

Suffolk Results:
Brian Kemp & Bill Darling won 5 & 3
Bob Cooper & Ken Stuart won 3 & 1
Brigg Archer & Derek Charlwood won 8 & 7
John Reed & Andrew Cornish lost 1 down
Mark Tibbenham & Steve Frost lost 2 & 1
Jack Flaxman & Chris Pearson lost 1 down
Dick Seaman & Peter Mallinson lost 4 & 2
Keith Ribbans & John Hopwood won 2 & 1

A very content pairing following their resounding success!!!

The meal following the golf was enjoyed by everyone. Brian was very gracious in handing over the trophy to Gordon. I would like to thank Gareth, Golf Club Manager at Rookery Park and all his team for being totally first class in all respects in helping make this day a success.
By the way, John missed his putt for birdie on the 9th!!

Suffolk Golf Captains v EAFGS at East Herts Golf Club – Tuesday 27th June 2023

We were once again blessed with fantastic weather for the annual fixture against our friends from the EAFGS. This was a big change from the previous year where the game at Haverhill was rained off. The numbers were reduced from 16 to 14 as both teams appeared to struggle for players. Andrew Thurston’s excellent choice of venue met with our expectations and the course presentation received praise from both teams. Following a substantial lunch of Mixed Seafood and French Fries, the competitive juices kicked in as battle commenced with the ‘Farmers’ determined regain the Alderton Cup.

from L to R, Robert Markillie, Tim Pitt, Mr Starter, John Pywell & Ade Gipson

All our matches this year have been closely contested and this fixture once again went right down to the wire. President John Pywell and Ade Gipson led from the front sealing victory in their match on the 17th. However, as the afternoon progressed it was all down to the last match with the Suffolk Captains leading by 3½ to 2½. Chris Briggs and Keith Ribbans needed to win the 18th to draw level with their opponents. Not to be, Robert Rush sank a long putt to win the hole making the match result a draw. As holders, Suffolk Captains retained the trophy.

Suffolk Captains Results:
John Pywell & Ade Gipson won 2 & 1
Brian Kemp & Peter Mallinson all square
Tony Dartnell & Ken Stuart won 5 & 3
Steve Finch & Paddy Lockwood lost 1 down
Bob Cooper & Chris Pearson won 7 & 6
Paul Boon & Paul Gray lost 2 & 1
Chris Briggs & Keith Ribbans lost 2 down

East Herts Clubhouse viewed from the 1st tee

The day was rounded off with a most enjoyable meal and the usual camaraderie between the sides was very mush in evidence. Although President John was suffering badly from a sore throat, he thanked EAFGS for their hospitality and gratefully received the Alderton Cup form Robert Markillie. The photographer unfortunately forgot to capture this part of the proceeding therefore no picture (apology). Our thanks to East Herts GC for hosting this event.

Suffolk Golf Captains v Hertfordshire Golf Captains at Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club, 8th June 2023

Our visitors arrived to be welcomed by a typical day by the seaside…. clear skies, sunny and a gentle easterly breeze (sorry, howling gale force winds). Several players, including myself, made a quick dash to the changing rooms to change from shorts to long trousers. However, after the usual pre-golf get together, both teams looked in good spirits as they set out to face the challenge of a strong headwind for the first 6 holes.

I suggested to our President that I should video his first tee shot but he quickly turned down this offer. Shame, he proceeded to hit his drive arrow straight into the centre of the fairway!!!! The match itself was a closely fought affair following a similar pattern to our previous matches. Suffolk results as follows:

John Pywell & Keith Ribbans lost 5 & 4
Guy Lesser & Paul Gray all square
Garry Clark & Chris Briggs lost 5 & 4
Peter White & Allan Holmes won 1 up
Trevor Mason & Ken Stuart won 3 & 1
Tony Dartnell & Paddy Lockwood won 6 & 5
Tom Collett & Joe Maloney lost 3 & 1
Andrew Long & Dick Seaman won 3 & 1

The match was once again played in the true spirit of golf, and I truly think home advantage was a distinct advantage. The guys from Hertfordshire were very complimentary about the venue but several struggled to adjust to the demands of links golf. Watch out for next year, Eric Diment assures me that he will choose an equally challenging course. Special mention to Paddy & Tony for their resounding success. However, I may have to expand on the dress code in future as Paddy’s choice of footwear for dinner was something to behold!!! Thanks also to Tom Collett for making himself available as this was his first match for the Association for quite some time.

Following the golf, we enjoyed a two-course meal (not the traditional seaside fare of fish & chips) before President John Pywell and Captain Brian Macdonald thanked all the staff at Felixstowe Ferry GC for making us so welcome on the day. Brian was very gracious in announcing the result, Suffolk 4½ - Herefordshire 3½.

Essex Golf Captains v Suffolk Golf Captains at Harwich & Dovercourt GC, Monday 22nd May 2023

Arriving at Harwich & Dovercourt GC on a sunny morning, I was alarmed to find all the Essex team raring to go for this our annual fixture. Even though I had missed the change of start time (long story but not entirely accepting the blame), our team arrived at our original meeting up time. A light lunch was enjoyed before teeing off slightly earlier than planned in ideal golfing conditions.

The golf course was in great condition and the Suffolk boys seemed intent on making this our first victory of the season. In his last game as President, Garry led by example winning his match by a narrow margin. Thanks to his playing partner Ray Baines for playing after his late call up at 9am. Thanks also to Keith Ribbans and Steven Law for stepping up following a couple of call offs. The secretary peaked on the first hole by sinking a 40’ birdie putt. Sadly, this form did not last for too long resulting in a narrow defeat. However, 3 wins and half from the remainder of the games ensured we won 4½ to 3½.

Suffolk Results:
Garry Clark & Ray Baines won 1 up
Steven Law & Steve Finch lost 5 & 4
Tony Dartnell & Ken Stuart lost 2 & 1
Alan Keyte & Ron Sargeant won 1 up
Colin Firmin & Bob Cooper won 3 & 2
Dave Hornsby & Trevor Mason all square
Keith Ribbans & Colin Aldous won 2 up
Graham Denny & James Douglas-Hamilton lost 1 down

Garry accepts the Trophy from Kevin Smith

The day ended with a thoroughly enjoyable meal and our thanks to Essex Golf Captains for their excellent hospitality, the hard work of the catering staff and Harwich & Dovercourt Golf Club for the presentation of the course.

Spring Meeting at Bury St Edmunds GC, Wednesday 24th May 2023

The Annual Spring Meeting was well supported with 53 members signing up for the event. Brilliant sunshine on the day and the golf course in pristine condition, there was a great atmosphere in the clubhouse before the shotgun start at 1300.

The message from BSE Men’s Captain, John Reed in his welcome address was to avoid the rough as it was punishing. It was apparent that some golfers heeded his advice and some, including the secretary, chose to totally ignore him. There were some outstanding scores recorded with 7 golfers achieving par or better.
Winners on the day:

4th place - Chris Griggs 38 points
3rd Place - Garry Clark 39 points
2nd place - Dave King 40 points
1st Place - Tony Dartnell 43 points

Gary Slaymaker was the winner of the Past President’s Trophy with a score of 37 points

Thanks to Garry for providing the prizes for nearest the pins and the longest drive. Phil Thorndyke, Marthinus Robbertse, Dick Seaman, Paul Boon were the nearest the pin and Mark Tibbenham was the longest drive.

The catering staff at BSE GC are to be commended for providing an excellent carvery. I would like to tahnk Garry Clark for negotiating the shotgun start which inevitable helped in making this a shorter day. The proceeding ended with the AGM 2023 which did not delay departure by too much.

Cambridgeshire Golf Captains v Suffolk Golf Captains

Girton GC
Monday 17th April 2023

Our first away fixture of the season against Cambridgeshire was held at Girton GC and once again we were blessed with sunshine throughout the afternoon. Following a light lunch, 8 x 4BBB matches teed off with the Suffolk boys intent on retaining the trophy.

After 5 matches, it looked like victory was a distinct possibility as were leading by 3 games to 2. However, we clutched defeat from the jaws of victory and once again lost the match by 4½ to 3½. Shame it wasn’t “Hambro” scoring as Peter and Richard’s outstanding win would have secured victory. Not to worry, everyone appeared to enjoy playing the course and the excellent camaraderie shown between the teams was evident throughout the day.

Suffolk Results:
Garry Clark & Paddy Lockwood lost 2 down
Guy Lesser & Ken Stuart all square
Peter White & Richard Nicholls won 8 & 6
Kenton Jameson & John Pywell all square
Chris Griggs & Bob Cousins won 3 & 2
Peter Revell & Dave Hornsby lost 3 & 1
Steve Finch & Andrew Long all square
John Reed & Bob Cooper lost 4 & 2

The day ended with a thoroughly enjoyable meal and our thanks to Cambridgeshire Golf Captains for their excellent hospitality and Girton Golf Club for the presentation of the course despite the recent heavy rain.

Suffolk Golf Captains v Beds Golf Captainsn

Diss Golf Club
4th April 2023

The opening game of the season was played in superb conditions for the time of year. Brilliant sunshine all afternoon made for a most enjoyable round of golf against our good friends from Bedfordshire. Diss Golf Club made us very welcome and a standard lunch was enjoyed before teeing off on a course that was in very good condition. Our thanks to John Pywell for deputising for our President Garry Clark who for some unknow reason chose to holiday in South Africa rather than play golf at Diss!!!!

The game itself was a tight affair with thoughts of retaining the trophy looking favourable leading by 2½ to 1½ after the first 4 games. However, we narrowly lost the next 3 games and won the final game resulting in the trophy heading south to Bedfordshire by the narrowest of margins.

John Pywell presenting the trophy to Martyn Latch, Bedfordshire Captain

A two-course meal was enjoyed by all, and Diss Golf Club were complimented by John and Martyn for the condition of the course, quality of food and friendliness of the staff. Finally, thanks to Dave Hornsby and Chris Briggs for stepping in as replacements. Well played to John Reed, Graham Denny and Bob Cooper in this their first match for Suffolk Golf Captains.

Suffolk Golf Club Captains v Golf Club Managers Association

Flempton Golf Club Bury St Edmunds Suffolk
Thursday 13th October 2022

It was a lovely warm and sunny Autumn day at Flempton Golf Club on Thursday as the Suffolk Captain’s went into battle with the Eastern region GMCA. The course was in great condition and the welcome to the club was warm and friendly for the 20 a-side match. 10 matches playing 4 ball better ball matchplay.

A light lunch was provided prior to the matches which had a shot gun start all starting and finishing together which as always adds to the atmosphere in the club house.
The matches as ever were very tight with at least 4 matches going to the final hole sadly all that effort from the courageous Captains was in vain as they narrowly lost to the GCMA 5 ½ - 4 ½

Back in the clubhouse high tea was served and the Captains leader, President Garry Clark presented the fabulous trophy to the GCMA Captain Scott Clark from Boyce Hill Golf Club in Essex, in his address to the players Scott gave some indication that he felt that Garry Clark and Paddy Lockwood who he had played and lost with his partner had some Mexican heritage in their genes, “surely not “, said the rest of the Captains.

Suffolk Captains winners and losers
Garry Clark & Paddy Lockwood Won 2 & 1
Guy Lesser & Martin Anderson Won 4 & 3
Alan Holmes & Trevor Mason Lost 3 & 2
Roger Lowe & Graham Barber Lost 4 & 3
Brig Archer & Andrew Long Match Halved
Kenton Jameson & Peter Mallinson Won 1 up
Brian Kemp & Derek Charlwood Lost 5 & 4
Ian Woodhead & Chris Pearson Lost 1 Down
Barry Storey & Ian Duncan Won 3 & 2
Terry Edwards & Keith Cresswell Lost 1 Down

Autumn Meeting – Southwold Golf Club

Friday 16th September 2022

The Association Autumn meeting was held at Southwold Golf Club on Friday 16th September 2022 with 36 Captains & Past Captains turning out to play for the Millennium Salver, combining scores from the Spring meeting and the Autumn meeting, the individual Stableford competition which is the Peter Grieve Trophy and the team competition playing for the Belle Trophy won in 2021 by the Fynn Valley team at Rookery Park.

Following a light lunch, we set out for a shotgun start at midday with waterproofs at the ready and I was very impressed with many of the players braving the elements wearing shorts!! Strong winds and squally showers throughout the afternoon made for difficult golfing conditions, highlighted by only two scores better than handicap.

The majority in the field were glad to retreat to the shelter of the clubhouse to enjoy the traditional Southwold Golf Club fayre of Fish & Chips. Thanks to Steve Whitehead and his team for their hospitality throughout the day.

RESULTS

Millennium Salver

Keith Ribbans and Gary Clark

1st Keith Ribbans 72pts
2nd Paul Gray 70pts
3rd Paul Boon 68pts

Peter Grieve Trophy

Ron Sargeant, Garry Clark, Paul Boon and Dave Hornsby

1st Ron Sargeant 38pts
2nd Paul Boon 36pts (countback)
3rd Dave Hornsby 36pts

Belle Trophy

Garry Clark, Paul Gray, Ron Sargeant and Dave Hornsby

1st Fynn Valley (best 3 scores) 105pts
2nd Felixstowe Ferry 104pts

Captain’s v Lady Captain’s at Halesworth Golf Club

Friday 19th August 2022

Garry Clark receives the Skevington Bowl from Vivienne Sears

The weather set fair, we gathered for a light lunch at Halesworth Golf Club prior to our annual fixture against the Ladies. This being my first fixture since taking over from Paddy, I quickly realised that this was quite a competitive occasion. Sally and Denise decreed men played off white tees, ladies received a courtesy shot and the stroke indexes from the Red tees were used. It was apparent that our team had a look of determination as they made their way to the first tee for a 1230 start.
The course was a pleasure to play despite inevitably suffering from the recent drought. Our President Garry Clark and Ken Parry-Brown led from the front with a convincing victory to set the tone for the afternoon. Ken used his home course knowledge (and shots) to good effect. This was quickly followed by two further straightforward wins before the final three games proved much tighter affairs. Despite one loss, the Skevington Bowl was back in our hands with a result of 5pts to 1pt.

The atmosphere following the game gave the impression that the day was enjoyed by everyone. The food was excellent and the banter first class. Garry thanked Halesworth Golf Club and the SLPPC for hosting the day and looked quite pleased to receive the trophy from Vivienne Sears, one of the ‘founders’ of this fixture. Thanks to everyone for making yourselves available and the 6 reserves, none of whom were called upon.

Next year’s fixture is planned for Seckford Golf Club subject to confirmation.

PRESIDENTS DAY

Newton Green Golf Club - Friday 15th July 2022

The Association of Suffolk Golf Captains held the annual Presidents Day meeting on Friday 15th July 2022 hosted by Newton Green Golf Club. Again, of course, this being the summer of 2022 it was another very warm day so strange hats, sun screen and lots of fluid were the order of the day.

Guests were invited from all of the Associations opponents though not all were able to attend. Invitations went to Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, East Anglian Farmers, Hertfordshire, Suffolk Ladies, GCMA and Norfolk. At one stage there was a field of 60 but a few cancellations due to Covid reduced the field but overall it was a great turnout with past Captains attending from across the whole region

The course was in excellent condition considering the extended dry spell; the greens were in great shape and played very true which was reflected in some fabulous scoring.
Following a light lunch there was a “Shot Gun” start with the format four ball better ball stableford and considering players were only receiving 85% of their handicaps it made the scoring even more amazing.

Winners Trevor Mason and Steve Frost from Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club won on countback with 45 points from Allan Holmes and Ian Howlett from Rookery Park and in 3rd place was the former Association Secretary Paddy Lockwood and his partner Ian Woodhead from Newton Green also on 45 points

Winners of the guest prize were Chris Foster and David Price from Bedfordshire.

Nearest the Pin on the 6th was Steve Finch

Nearest The Pin on the 18th was Ian Howlett

Following and excellent meal the prizes were presented. President Garry Clark thanked everybody for supporting the event which as ever was a great success.
There was more than a little bit of sadness amongst the membership with regard to the outgoing Secretary.

President Garry thanked the former Secretary Paddy Lockwood for all his hard work in organising and galvanising the support for each of the Association events. Paddy said he had been in office for 10 years but nearly all members would agree it seemed very much longer. There was a rousing round of applause and cheers as Paddy eventually sat down.

Well done Paddy and thank you from all at the Association

What a great day and thank you to all staff at Newton Green Golf Club for contributing to another successful Suffolk Captains event.

Evening Meal

Winners Trevor and Steve

Little bit of Practice

Presidents addresses the crowd

President Garry Clark

Presentations

The end of an era goodbye Paddy

Spring Meeting Thursday 19th May 2022 Halesworth GC.

Unbelievable though it be the weather was great as Paddy failed in his attempt to make it rain (for the sake of his garden!).

The Council had decided to give a new garment, a ¼ zip top a go so with 22 in his box Paddy arrived early hoping to sell at least a couple. He sold them all and the person who’s idea it was Steve Finch arrived after they had been sold so is having to wait for the next lot to arrive. They are a bargain at £50. Anybody worth their salt would have got a picture of one but it is not to be. Hopefully someone will wear one soon and get caught by the camera.

44 members teed it up (43 stayed to eat). Unusually for the Captains events the scoring was quite good with at least 10 beating nett par even though they were playing of 90% of course handicap. The course was in great condition and many had a great game though not many missed the chance to go near one of the 13000 trees many of which are becoming well established.

Dinner was also very good with President Gary excelling in his menu choice and the main complaint was directed at the oppressed secretary who had not provided wine of the table. Apologies.

Winners on the day were:
5th Place                       Steven Law                 37pts OCB
4th Place                       Derek Charlwood       38pts OCB
3rd Place                      Stephen Ward             38pts OCB
2nd Place                      Rob Sherrington          39pts OCB

Pictured is the winner Paul Gray not receiving the Nigel Parker Salver as it was not present and not receiving his voucher for winning as the secretary had lost it.
Although there had been a suggest that the cup played for by the past President be renamed the Les Turner Cup due to the number of times he has won it today there is a different winner.

Gary and Chris Briggs share a joke as he is presented with the cup.

Following the presentations was the AGM. This was the usual quick affair and resulted in Garry Clark being voted in as President 45. John Pywell became vice president and Steve Finch (yes the culprit of the new top) was voted onto the Council. There was no secretary elected as Paddy stood down after 10 years and there were no nominations. The association is in a precarious position unless a willing volunteer comes forward.

Gary Slaymakers last job was to hand over the chain of office (collar) to the new president Garry Clark and this is pictured below.

Hintlesham GC Wednesday 20th April

It was a fantastic days weather as we resumed the rivalry for the cup after a couple of years of enforced postponements. After a slow start to the day the teams were announced, and the action began. What a tight match it was. In the end news came in that the score was 3 – 2 to Cambs with 3 games to come. President Gary playing his last match before the AGM, just failed but there were early wins for Steve and Keith and Jack and John. Vice President Garry with Ray Baines won as did Philip and late replacement Paddy. Somehow group seven who were 3 down with 3 to play managed to win the last 3 holes for a half and the overall win. Well done to Allan and Bob for a great finish.

It seems strange getting changed again but nonetheless we did and enjoyed a fantastic meal. The presentations were held and we broke up looking forward to going to Cambridgeshire next year.

Bedfordshire v Suffolk – Mount Pleasant GC Monday 4th April

The seasons opener was eagerly awaited, and the intrepid team set out, early in the case of President Gary, for the unknown in central Bedfordshire. Gary reported it was only a three hour journey. We arrived to the now traditional fair to the news that the owners of the course had given members notice and the course would shortly be a housing estate. We were lucky to get to play there before it closed.

It was an overcast, chilly day with a good breeze but stayed dry as we played. In a throw back to my rugby days on arrival at the changing room the showers were running lukewarm I was told. They were cold I tell you. Anyway we gathered for the meal and very nice it was to.

Then came the presentations. Both leaders were commendably succinct in their delivery though I suspect Gary was wondering about the journey home. In the wash down it was a win for Suffolk by 5 – 3 with some jolly close contests (apart from mine where Steve and I lost 3 and 2). The picture below shows the Bedfordshire Captain giving the magnificent trophy to Gary for another year in Suffolk’s possession.

Hello All,

The new season is just round the corner and the teams for the first two matches have been announced. The next round of availability requests is just round the corner and I will be sending them out in a week or so.

We have several new members so welcome to you all and I hope to see you at a match or event during the year if you can make it though we all know the lot of the captain during their year means very limited free time for golf.

For those of you that expressed interest in going to St Pierre in September I regret to tell you that this event has been called off due to a lack of support from other Counties. If you have those dates reserved in your diary you are now free.

The Council met recently to talk about the usual beginning of year events. One of the subjects discussed was the AGM and papers for that, invites etc will be sent out shortly. Please don't tell me you can (or can't) make it following this email as my administrative skills are being tested to the full at this moment. We did however discuss the elections and I announced that I would not be seeking re-election this year after I believe counting this year 10 seasons. Might be 9 can't work it out just now. That means that we need someone to come forward to take over. I am more than happy to run the matches this year and to work with anyone that is interested. I know that Brian was equally pleased for me to help him!

This announcement raised a number of issues and the Council decided that we would survey the membership on the next phase of the Association and Garry Clark and I are busy working on that currently. If you have any ideas for change or just want the status quo hopefully you will be able to find the time to let Council know.

One member has expressed an interest in having a quarter length zipped top rather than a woolen jumper. If you think this would be a good idea let me know and we may expand our range of clothing to include this especially as our fixtures are spreading out into months where the weather is likely to be cold.

Anyway, thanks for taking the time to read this, watch this space for more event news, AGM papers and requests for availability in due course.

Best regards

Paddy Lockwood
Hon Sec ASGC

Association of Suffolk Captains v Eastern Region GCMA

Woodbridge Golf Club - Tuesday 12th October 2021

Paddy’s Armageddon as tight match is lost to the GCMA

Mike Verheist receiving the wonderful Armageddon Trophy from President Gary Slaymaker

There was a superb turnout for the last Association of Suffolk Captains match of the season played against the Eastern Region of the Golf Club Managers Association with both teams fielding 20 players each. Ten matches of 4 ball better ball with the added complications of the new WHS handicapping system. The matches were very close, two halved, two matches lost 1 down and two matches losing two down Adi Gipson and Alex Giddens won 4 & 2 as did Chris Briggs and Dick Seamen. Andrew Cornish and Peter Mallinson had a strong 6 and 5 win. The surprise of the day was that our heroic organiser Paddy Lockwood and Colin Firmin lost disappointingly 5 and 3 leaving the overall score at GCMA 6 Suffolk Captains 4. Everybody was left wondering if only Paddy & Colin had won their game the match would have been tied.

We had started the day with a lovely late breakfast , it was warm but cloudy(not the breakfast …the weather) on a couple of holes we got a real drenching but it didn’t spoil our day, it was so great to be back enjoying our golf with great fellowship and camaraderie topped off with some cucumber sandwiches and cake.

Our President presented the coveted Armageddon Trophy to the outgoing GCMA Captain Mike Verheist and both thanked our host Woodbridge Golf Club for their splendid hospitality.

We look forward so very much to next years’ matches with no interruptions please.

East Anglian Farmers Golf Society v ASGC. Tuesday 28th September 2021 Thetford GC

Following on the from the Autumn meeting on Friday the ASGC team of athletes were well rested and ready for battle with our friends from the EAFGS. Andrew Thurston chose to play the fixture at Thetford and what a good choice it was.
Once again we nearly all assembled in good time and were treated to some fine Ham, Egg(s) and chips for lunch, clearly a tactic to slow us down. After a few jittery moments the last captain arrived in good time to tee off in the 7th group and I am pleased to report that he overcame the hinderance of a massive lunch. There were some great matches with 6 matches going to the 18th green. Tony played brilliantly with Chris but couldn’t overcome the arithmetic of having to give one opponent 21 shots. Brian Goldsmith, on debut, remains unbeaten and there were heroic stories on both sides though in the end the score saw a win for the captains of 6 ½ to 1 ½ . It was much closer than the score suggests.
We adjourned to the bar and enjoyed a hearty roast supper and then the fun begun. The farmers president, who shall not be named, explained that the trophy must be at home as he couldn’t find it even though his driver said he had seen it. Our leader Gary did little to help by explaining to everyone that this was the first victory under his leadership though our friends took this in good hear. The picture below shows President Gary accepting the make shift trophy from the said Farmers president even though he waffled for a while still trying to remember where it was.

Late Note
The errant trophy has been found. It was hidden in a cheap plastic bag near some bushes in the car park where it is suspected said President got out of the car on arrival. Well done Richard for being prepared to search for it. The Armageddon trophy is now safely in the hands of Mrs Lockwood who as we all know is always grateful when I bring a trophy home.

Autumn Meeting - Rookery Park Golf Club

Friday 24th September 2021

The Association Autumn meeting was held at Rookery Park Golf Club on Friday 24th September 2021 in another step back to some sort of golfing normality with 37 Captains & Past Captains turning out to play for the Millennium Salver, combining scores from the Spring meeting and the Autumn meeting, the individual Stableford  competition  which is the Peter Grieve Trophy, aka The Door Stop and the team completion playing for elusive Belle Trophy last won in 2019 by the Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club team at Bungay.

As with all of our meetings there is always something that will put our much respected Secretary Paddy Lockwood on tenterhooks, normally weather based, too hot, too cold, too windy or normally too wet. This time however it was a combination of the popularity of a staycation in Lowestoft and queues at petrol stations due to panic buying plus accidents leading to loads of traffic clogging up main arterial roads leading to Rookery Park that combined to make some of us late and Paddy slightly twitchy.

As always the excellent organisation from our leader provided a brilliant day’s golf and getting back together with our old friends again was a delight. The weather was warm and dry and led our President, Gary Slaymaker, to show us all how this game is played finishing with a great 40 points to take the Peter Grieve Trophy and the Millennium Salver. The team prize went to Fynn Valley on countback ahead of Halesworth both with 102 points.

A Steak and Ale pie followed and generously Dennis Cayless provided wine on tables for all to celebrate his 91st birthday, thank you Dennis!

RESULTS

Millennium Salver

President Gary Slaymaker and the Rookery Park Captain

1st Gary Slaymaker    33 points at Stowmarket + 40 points at Rookery Park Total 73
2nd Les Turner 70 points
3rd Keith Cresswell 66 points

Peter Grieve Trophy

1st Gary Slaymaker 40 points
2nd Brian Clarke 38 points

The Belle Trophy

1st Fynn Valley Golf Club (best 3 scores) 102 ocb
2nd Halesworth Golf Club 102

CAPTAIN’S v LADY CAPTAINS

Southwold Golf Club

Friday 20th August 2021 saw the renewal of our battle with Lady Captains (Past and present) at Southwold Golf Club. The weather was set fair, the forecast was good so what could go wrong.

After a leisurely lunch the match teed off at 2pm. It was good it did because the new WHS, courtesy shot, sloping and various other exciting administrative issues confronted the organisers. Sally and team were exemplary in sorting it all out leaving Paddy to fill in the handicaps of his players, or at least those that had arrived on time.

With such a good forecast it was slightly frustrating to leave the clubhouse for my warm up to find a few spots of rain in the air but it all turned out alright in the end. All the matches were closely contested I am told and ours certainly was with the result in doubt till the last hole.

The meal after was scrummy so a good day was had by all. Stand in President Brian Kemp was thrust into the limelight to do the presentations and with no time to prepare a joke that crisis was averted. He tried not to sound downhearted as he announced the lady captains had retained the Skevington Rose Bowl with a win of 4pts to 2pt but failed.

Having played on Friday it was about Monday before I realised there was no photograph of the presentation taken by me so here is a picture of the tee shot on the 10th instead to remind us of a good day out.

ASGC vs Norfolk

It was a typical summers day in England as we hosted our friends from Norfolk in a resumption of our annual match. The welcome to both teams at Gorleston Golf Club was exceptional and we welcomed their current captain John Hopwood into the ranks as well. He teamed up with President Gary Slaymaker and they were well beaten showing that local knowledge is always everything.

The early tactics are here typified by Keith and Steve who let their opponents have a drink before playing while retaining their athletic reputations in abstinence.

After lunch it was out to the course. Unless I was mistaken there was a keen wind and a couple of biblical rainstorms otherwise the weather was fine. There is truth in the rumour that rain makes the grass grow and any miscreant straying from the fairway was in for a shock. A keen contest was held and resulted in a 4½ - 5½ win for Norfolk as the Secretary and Vice President playing in the anchor position failed to deliver the winning point as the last group. Congratulations to Norfolk on a good win. The fish and chips were great and then the presentations ended a great afternoon in wet and windy Suffolk!

SOHGC v ASGC or Herts v Suffolk

After some frantic re-arranging our annual match against Hertfordshire took place at Harpenden Common GC. The weather was lovely, the course was excellent and food was very good so what more could we ask for. Well a win would be nice but it was not to be. A strong Suffolk team went down by 4 -2. Wins for new President Gary Slaymaker and Bill Darling (our new recruit to the youth opportunities scheme) and Flempton guru Tony Dartnell partnering Secretary Paddy Lockwood was the only good news. Bill was a little disappointed that his win was not that by the oldest on the day as Home stalwart Don (given 15 shots by Kenton) won his match at 86 years young. Luckily there is no cup to play for so we didn’t have to present it and neither did the Secretary forget to bring it!

Joe Maloney demonstrates excellent putting skills on the 18th (I didn’t go in)

Adi Gipson is giving Captain Neils little speech his full attention.

Dear Member

New President Gary Slaymaker is well and truly in office now being in possession of the chain of office which includes a bar (gold type) with his name on it in case he gets lost.

32 hardy souls made it to the tee at Stowmarket on Friday last. In short, not only did Les Turner win the past President trophy (as usual) but also the Nigel Parker Salver with a magnificent birthday present of 35 points. We thank you for the drink Les.

The next golf is Thursday 10th June. Thanks to all those that replied. A team of 12 is going to Harpenden Common to take on the might of Hertfordshire. Full details to the travellers nearer the time.

I am now in a position to confirm that the match against Norfolk will be at Gorleston GC on Tuesday 6th July with first tee time around 12.30. This will be preceded by a bacon roll and followed by a two course meal. It is a 20 aside match. If you wish to play let me know. One or two did include this from the previous email but I have not recorded that so if you wish to play let me know (again!). Any Covid restrictions still applicable will be confirmed immediately before the match when the start sheet is provided. The cost of this day will be £40.

I can additionally confirm that the Presidents day event at Newton Green GC is also scheduled to go ahead. This will be a shotgun start at 1.30pm on Friday 16th July. This is a pairs event. Enter with a partner though if you cannot do that enter as a single and I will find a partner for you. Please let me know if you wish to play and who your partner will be etc. Your starting tee will be announced shortly before the date. We will be joined by guests from the other teams that we play so should be an enjoyable afternoon. The cost will be £40 per head. For the newer members the prizes at this event are often not worth winning!!

I will be in touch regarding the next events in due course as we continue to progress from this pandemic and don't want to get too far in front of myself.

One new future date that requires no action now, is we have confirmed a 16 per side match with Farmers Golf Society (cancelled from June) at Thetford on Tuesday 28th September.

Looking forward to receiving entries for the match v Norfolk and the Presidents day.

Best wishes

Paddy Lockwood

Spring Meeting beats the weather….. just!

After missing the whole of last year and making a late start this year the Golf Captains association is up and running again. Last week saw a zoom AGM that was perhaps poorly attended but saw Gary Slaymaker installed as the new President replacing the exhausted Keith Cresswell. The picture below shows Gary sporting the chain of office.

While he was on a roll Keith presented the secretary with a memento from his two years recollecting the issues of attending dinners and room sharing.

After meeting, elbow bumping and moaning about the weather it was time for the golf. To be fair we have known wetter days but the wind blew and blew.

Ian Duncan, leaving his wife at home on his wedding anniversary was in charge of the President starting the event. The photo of his drive will live in my memory for at least 3 days.

All the entrants made it round with varying degrees of success and varying scores. In the end there can only be one winner. Congratulations to Les Turner who won both the Nigel Parker Salver and the Past Presidents trophy with a magnificent 35pts. 4 players tied on 33 pts. The secretary was second with 20 on the back nine, Paul Boon was a good third, defying his later arrival than ideal but allegedly not due to having snooze in the car, with 18 on the back nine. Out of the prizes but worthy of mention was the President who had 10 on the back six and Alan Middle who had 9.

In the circumstances a convivial period of chatting was had in the clubhouse with Friday fish and chips. I wasn’t sure what the green stuff was on the plate so I left mine. This was followed by a warming bread and butter pudding.
Watch your in box for an email of future arrangements.

Minutes of the 43rd Annual General Meeting of the Association

held on Zoom at 6.30pm on Friday 14th May 2021.

Present: President Keith Cresswell and 8 members.
Apologies: John Pywell and Garry Clark

Minutes of the 41st AGM had been circulated. These were proposed as a true record by Keith Cresswell and seconded by Gary Slaymaker. Approved.
There were no matters arising

Presidents report.

I never thought that my year as your President would last for 24 months , that is how long I have been your President. I enjoyed the first 12 months, when I was able to play golf, but the last 12 months all I could do was keep the collar clean ready for my successor.

I must say a big thank you to Paddy our Secretary for his help and for arranging our ZOOM meetings and for the support of my committee.

I must say how frustrating it has been for me walking around Stowmarket golf course without a club and ball in hands, however it was good exercise and hopefully we are all safe and in good health now.

I would like to thank all of you who played and supported me in the matches during 2019/2020, it was not that successful, we won 2, drawn 2 and lost 4.

It was not as bad in 2020/2021 we did not lose any games, nor did we win any, because we didn’t play any, which meant our secretary didn’t forget to bring the trophies along and Mrs Lockwood didn’t have to clean them.

I had a very enjoyable Presidents Day at Bury St Edmunds golf club, when we had a particularly good turnout, which included presidents from other counties we play during the year.

As the President Suffolk Captains before the pandemic, I was invited to other counties Presidents’ Days, namely Norfolk, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire which was interesting to see the different ideas they had for the Presidents days. It was a good way to make new golfing friends, which I hope I will keep for a long time.

My successor, Chris Briggs did warn me that when you go on these days, you travel and may sleep in the same bedroom with our secretary and he has a habit of forgetting his Pyjamas, I did not believe Chris, but I can confirm it is true.
So, Gary be warned if you travel with Paddy to any away days and you stay overnight, make sure you have a spare pair of pyjamas with you.

Finally, I would like to wish our incoming President, Gary Slaymaker an enjoyable and healthy year and good luck Charlie Wilderspin on being elected to the committee.

And I would also wish you all a healthy golfing year and keep well.

Keith was warmly thanked for carrying on for an extra year and endorsed by all present.

Secretary’s report.

Paddy started by reading the names of those that had departed since our last AGM and a time of reflection was allowed.

The issue of attracting new members was raised. Ken Stuart suggested better awareness for those captains who move to Suffolk. Ian Duncan gave details of an ambassador card as a means of attracting new members.

Paddy subsequently went through the current plans for this year though with the caveat that Government rules or circumstances may yet change this.

Accounts

The balance sheet prepared by Charlie was presented for the year 2019. This was proposed by Keith and seconded by Ian Duncan. Paddy then stated that income for 2020 was 2499. There was little outgoings with the insurance being allowed to lapse and therefore asked that the AGM approve no balance sheet or formal accounts for the year. This was agreed.

Elections
All positions were proposed by the committee.

President         Gary Slaymaker           Seconded Allan Wells
Vice President Garry Clark                  Seconded Gary Slaymaker
Committee      Charlie Wilderspin      Seconded Keith Cresswell
Hon Sec           Paddy Lockwood         Seconded Ian Duncan

All were approved en bloc.

There was no other business and the meeting closed at 6.51pm.

LATEST UPDATE FROM HON SECRETARY PADDY - March 2021

Dear Member,

It is a long while since I communicated with you but I can assure you that the ASGC Council has met far more often than usual to ensure that we try to do the right thing in these difficult times.

It is with a heavy heart that we have decided not to play matches scheduled for April and May 2021. This means that yet again we will miss seeing our friends from Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and Essex. There are a number of reasons for this which include in no particular order, Government guidelines on Covid, No catering facilities at clubs, Clubs not accepting visitors after the reopening. It is hoped that some of the fixtures, if not all, can be played from June but I will be confirming this nearer the time. I hope that you will be able to support those should we be able to play.

Though we didn't play any golf last year we did support the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) and plan to do so again this year. Obviously there has been an accumulation of funds from membership but I have been getting some indication from clubs that prices will rise in the coming months to us so this may off set this at least temporarily. There are no accounts as such for last year other than income from the subscriptions so no formal accounts will be produced for that year.

The AGM last year did not happen and we agreed to roll over roles for a further 12 months. The AGM is due in May again this year. It was proposed to hold the AGM at Stowmarket on Friday 21st May after the Spring Meeting Golf. Stowmarket have offered to host our event but we are restricted to 32 members being able to play. Invitations to apply to play in this event will be sent out not before 12th April when the current state is assessed and there is a decision on whether to go ahead or not.

In these circumstances it would be unwise to hold the AGM after the golf due to social distancing measures and this could exclude some people from taking part in the AGM. It is therefore proposed to hold the AGM at 6.30pm on Friday 14th May via zoom. The invite details will be put on the website in good time and I will email out to members as well. On a small point we like to remember members who have passed away during the preceding year at the AGM. I have not been notified of many members who have died so if you are aware of any please let me know so they can be remembered appropriately. Papers and agenda will be served mid April via email.

As the year develops we will need to collectively make sure that all the Captains at are clubs are aware of the association and be proactive in encouraging them to join us as we move forward.

Hope you all enjoy the return to the course on 29th March.

Best regards

Paddy Lockwood
Hon Sec ASGC

Presidents Report May 2020

Dear All.

I hope you are all keeping well and you are able to get out and play the game we all love in this beautiful sunny weather.

What a year I have had as your President, it started so well with Chris Brigg, Past President handing over the Collar to me at the 2019 AGM at the Haverhill Golf Club.

The matches got off to a good start in May with us playing Bedford at Bury St Edmunds on a very sunny day and for once Paddy remembered to bring the trophy so we were able to have it presented on the day.

The second match was played against Hertfordshire Captains at Letchworth on a very wet day. The Hertfordshire Secretary said that it was payback time as when they played at Fynn Valley Golf Club in 2016, the match had to be delayed because of a storm.
From then on the weather went downhill; matches had to be cancelled because the courses were so wet they had to be closed.

We have some first timers this year. The first thing was Suffolk Ladies Captains and Suffolk Mens Captains teamed up for a mixed Texas Scramble played at Halesworth Golf Club, this had to be rearranged due to wet weather. The second, because of Covid-19 we were not able to hold the AGM at Stowmarket Golf Club, so the council held a Zoom Meeting, the only problem was my computer didn’t have a microphone so I had to use my mobile phone.
The third thing, the council decided as I had not for filled all of my duties this year I should be the first Suffolk President to serve for a second year.

I am sad to report we have lost four of our members Donald Munro, Fynn Valley Golf Club, Richard Handley, Bob Perrett and Past President Michael Spencer, Ipswich Golf Club. If there are others I am not yet aware of them.

On a brighter note, we have a number of new members including Kenton Jameson, Present Captain at Stowmarket Golf Club and Ken Stuart, Stowmarket Golf Club.

To all members, if any of you know of any Present or Past Captains who would like to join us please get in contact with our secretary.

Enjoy your golf, Keep Safe and Keep Well.
I look forward to seeing you all in the future.

Keith Cresswell
President

Sad News

Dear Member,

It is with much sadness I notify you of the passing of Michael Spencer, recent past president (2014) and dear friend to me and many others.

In these times we will be unable to attend the funeral, giving him the send off he deserves.

Best Wishes

Paddy Lockwood
Hon Sec ASGC

In light of the advice from Government and the ongoing pandemic requirements we have made the inevitable decision to cancel the early season fixtures. All fixtures up to the end of June are now cancelled and will not be played.

The AGM was due to be held at Stowmarket in May and this will not be held either. In the circumstances it is likely that Keith will continue in the presidents role for a further year and Gary Slaymaker will take over in 2021, assuming that all has returned to “normal”. However no binding decision has been made on this.

As you would expect this decision will be continually reviewed and a decision on events planned from July 1st onwards will be made in good time to allow for proper communication.

The association will still be happy for captains to join the association so if you can persuade your current captain to be interested contact the secretary by email or phone plus you could download the enrolment form from the website.

Regional Qualifying events

Fellow Captains as some of you may be aware Stowmarket will be hosting one of the eight Regional Qualifying events on Thursday 4th  June. England Golf have kindly donated a place free of charge to the winner of the Suffolk Golf Captains Spring Meeting which this year will also be held at Stowmarket.

One condition of claiming your free entry being you would need to be a member of the England Golf  Captains Programme. Should you not already be a member then you would need to sign up to take up the free entry.

The Cost of membership is £20 for past captains. The cost for Current and Vice Captains is free.

While some of you have played in these before will know should you be successful in this event you qualify for the final. This will be played in 2020 at Frilford Heath as part of the England Golf Week. The final will consist of one Practice Day and two days of competition golf, with your accommodation cost covered.

To enter the competition I would encourage you to go to the England Golf Website and look for the competition tab at the top of the page click on this
Then you will see the Captains Tab click that. It will then take you to the page along with the other 7 Regional Events.  You click then what  venue(s) you wish to play and follow the steps. The live entry is on 3rd February from a personal experince book early as the places do go very quickly.

Saunton Salver 2019

So after deciding that we would not go again after last year 12 intrepid Suffolk Captains arrived in Devon at lunchtime (ish) on Tuesday 8th Ocober. The secretary decided the wind and rain (with more rain forecast) was too much so declined the practice round. The pioneering spirit of Andrew Cornish, Gary Clark and Peter White decided to give it a go. The trio of Alan Middle, Adrian Gipson and John Cunnell had fallen foul of the M25, M4 and M5. No that is not true. They took 2 hours to make Cambridge from Stowmarket thanks to Woolpit on the A14. Anyway they to dashed out.

The next day and first day of competition was slow. Very slow indeed very very slow. The wind blew at up to 45mph and you wouldn’t believe how pleased I was with the 20 minute hail storm that blew in. To be fair we did well to score 159 points. The following day was better. No much but better. We were first out and certainly our group was 70 minutes quicker. We all performed well but it was to be 159 again. This ultimately put us in 8th position out of 14 so it was a reasonable defence. The winners were Dorset who ironically scored 344 the same as us last year so well done to them betting Shropshire by 10 points.

So to the presentation dinner. Last years president Chris Briggs, who failed to produce a sparkling speech after our victory was announced was given the chance to redeem himself and he did. Well done Chris. As a county we did well on the 2’s with Brian Kemp winning 42 balls. Peter White and John Cunnell received the runners up prize on the West Course for day 1 so it was another good performance all round.

The secretary retired to the bar at the Barnstaple Hotel for, as he thought, the last time only to hear we want to come again from some. Who knows!

Watch my lips…. Never again

The apres ski was most acceptable and pictured below are the top table for the day

SUFFOLK CAPTAINS v GCMA   Fynn Valley Golf Club  Tuesday 15th October 2019

In keeping with the year this was no ordinary match with a total of 14 calls off. However thanks to the last minute inclusion of Les Turner the secretary, who was otherwise engaged, was allowed to slip quietly away.
The day started with a full English breakfast and Coffee.

After the breakfast, Bob Crosbie acting Captain of Fynn Valley Golf Club, welcomed everyone and explained that the new club house was celebrating its first anniversary. As it was also Paddy Lockwood’s birthday the President presented him with a bottle of drink, which was gratefully received.

Before we consider the match the secretary managed to admit that he had left the trophy behind putting pressure on the captains to retain it to save a face saving trip to Southend to deliver it.

The president in the first group with Bob Crosbie playing Neil Ellice and Scott Ballentine found himself 8 down after 9 holes Scott having played 2 over scratch with the game all over after 10 holes 9 & 8. With the exception of Derek and Keith losing seemed to be the in thing so with 6 groups in the captains were 5 / 1 down and staring at a heavy defeat. Secretary Paddy though kept back his trump cards as Philip and Geoff, Chris and Brian and Steve and Les all winning leaving the score on 4 - 5. Everyone sat waiting for the result of the final match which was a win for Brian and Dennis, so the match result was halved at 5 each. Well done Suffolk Captains who retained the trophy and saved the blushes of the secretary.

The day ended with a cup of tea and a piece of cake each with next years’ battle scheduled to take place at Woodbridge.

Pictured below is President Keith explaining how all this was part of his master plan and Bob Crosbie working hard to believe him.

Autumn Meeting - Friday 20th September 2019 held at Bungay and Waveney Valley Golf Club.

Following the long dry spell the secretary was hoping that his usual weather ability of rain the drought would be ended. No luck it was a lovely day that was welcomed by all 40 entrants. The secretary had fallen foul of an evening of indoor games with his granddaughter and failed to make the starting line though it transpired that Dr Peter White had the the answer to the problem.

After a long afternoon on the course the results were worked out for this three trophy event as the field enjoyed an excellent carvery.

The results were:

Peter Grieve Trophy

1. Garry Clark 38 pts
2. Allan Wells 36 pts
3. Colin Firmin 35pts (20 back 9)
4. Graham Barber 35pts (19 back 9)
5. Philip Thorndyke 35pts (18 back 9)

Garry is pictured with the trophy being presentd by Keith.

 
Millenium Shield

1. Allan Wells 71pts
2. Nick Bonney 68 pts

As the photograph below shows the sound the secretary heard while retrieving the Peter Grieve trophy was the Millenium salver falling to the floor so in the word of said granddaughter he is required to pretend.

The Belle trophy

Most clubs didn’t manage to find a team of 3 but it did not stop a top competition between those 5 that did.

In the end the trophy was won by Felixstowe Ferry (without the assistance of Brian Kemp) on 101pts (Trevor Mason, Ian Buxton and Allan Wells) who just beat off the challenge of the home team from Bungay (Steve Rowe, Brien Traves and Dermot Cronin) who scored 99.

Pictured below is the Felixstowe side demonstrating what being in disarray means.

The Skevington Rose Bowl

The lady and gentlemen captains met up for the annual renewal of the trophy at Flempton Golf Club on windy Friday afternoon.

We were well looked after but the club. The secretary, who in previous years had stuck gamely to the principle that the yellow tees were not negotiable this year relented and the gents played off the white tees and gave 2 curtesy shots. This tactic is now in urgent revision by the gentlemen but not by the ladies.

Most games were very tight and keenly contested but the new Ladies organisers, Sally and Denise had been astute in team selection resulting in a 6 – 0 win for the ladies.

We adjourned to the club house and enjoyed an excellent meal during which President Keith handed the trophy to Sally.

Presidents Meeting - Monday 15th July 2019 at Bury St Edmunds Golf Club

There was another brilliant turnout for the Association of Suffolk Golf Captains Presidents meeting at Bury St Edmunds. 76 players enjoy the excellent Bury St Edmunds course at its best in really great condition. There have been major improvements to the course over recent years and we were all lucky enough to enjoy them on Monday.

Not only did our secretary organised the attendance of players and guests from all over the eastern region representing all the groups that the Captains play matches against throughout the golfing season, he also ensured that we had the best weather the summer can offer.

Sadly Secretary Paddy was the odd one out and didn’t play but we did see him out on the course and he witnessed my partner and I enduring our only blob of the day. Not only odd but a bit of a jinx we thought!

The competition was a fourball betterball stableford format and to crown a really great day there were some outstanding scores. Alan Keyte & Keith Ribbans representing Brett Vale came in with 47 points to win the Suffolk Captains prize narrowly beating home players Barry Storey & David Kerswell with 46 points

Hertfordshire Captains, Richard Blanchflower & Eric Diment won the Guests Prize with 44 points.

Champagne moment of the day was Stowmarkets’ Tim Pitt representing the Farmers who won the nearest the pin on the 18th by holing his third shot.

Before the presentations Keith Cresswell was able to present a belated trophy relating to last week’s match v Norfolk. Presented to Norfolk President Terry Pyle

Full Results

Winners
Alan Keyte and Keith Ribbans - Brett Vale 47 pts.

Runners up
Barry Storey and David Kerswell - Bury St Edmunds 46pts

Winning visitors:
Richard Blanchflower and Eric Diment - Hertfordshire Golf Captains 44pts

Nearest the Pin
2nd Andrew Cornish
9th John Cunnell
13th Peter White
15th Paul Gray

Nearest the Pin in 2 at the 7th Nigel Popper
Nearest the pin in 3 at the18th Tim Pitt

Suffolk Captains winners Keith and Alan

2nd place Suffolk Captains

Norfolks Terry picks up the Trophy from Keith

Best Guest Prize

Nearest the pin winner 1

Nearest the pin winner 2

Nearest the pin winner 3

Nearest the pin winner 4

Great Meal after the round Bury club house

On the patio at Bury

Suffolk Captains v Hertfordshire

The day started with an email from a member of the Suffolk team asking if it had been called off yet due to the weather forecast. It had not. We arrived at Letchworth, a really good, Golf Club in good time for what turned out to be an outstanding lunch. By that time it has started to rain. The secretary was overjoyed to find that his waterproofs were still drying at home and was indebted to Murray Staines who lent him a spare top that certainly fitted. For the record it rained all the way round. Sometimes heavier than others but nonetheless rained. A plan was hatched at the  fantastic half way house that provided tea, beer and cake to get the manager to call us in as we might damage the course. That failed as they helpfully said it would be fine and to continue.. As far as the golf went we did OK but lost . This is the only match without a cup so I haven’t got to show a picture of Keith handing it over but instead a picture of the Herts President who was pleased with Herts effort. For the record the meal in the evening was just as good as lunch and we all returned home, replete and hopefully ready for further battles ahead.

Suffolk Golf Captain v East Anglian Farmers

The weather was set fair for the annual renewal of our rivalry with the Farmers. We descended on Diss Golf Club this year and such was the anticipation the road had been closed to make arrival a challenge for some.

It has not been the secretaries year and that did not stop for this match when it was established that two team members had not received the team notifications. Congratulation to Derek who made it from his roll up at Bury St Edmunds to play in the match. Apologies to the pairs of Farmers who were tested only be a single player team and well done to Keith and Dennis who uncomplainingly gave it their best which was not quite enough. The rest of the teams had some good games. Once the dust had settled it was established that the draw 4 – 4 had occurred and it was quickly pointed out the Farmers had retained the cup.

We had a great meal after which President Keith presented the cup to Tony who announced next year the fixture will be contested at Thetford.

Suffolk Gents and Lady Captains Texas Scramble

The rearranged date for the Texas Scramble proved to have much better weather conditions to the original date in May.
There were eight teams consisting of two ladies and two gents, with all players to have four Tee shots, with the two extra Tee shots to be played by one lady and one gent.

All the prizes were presented by Anne Archer before the dinner.

The prize winners were as follows:-
Front 9 Holes – Sally Clarke, Jackie Waghorn, Ian Buxton & Dennis Driver.
Back 9 Holes -  Lucie Reeve, Joan Cook, Colin Fulton & Richard Nichols.
The Third Place – Ruth Kemp, Liz Jeary, Andrew Johnson & Ken Parry-Brown.
Runners Up – Anne Archer, Pauline Hislop, Pat Shepherd & Geoff Severn.
Winners – Rachael Goldsmith, Linda Cresswell, David Kerswell & Brian Clarke, with an outstanding Gross score of 69 shots less 8.1 handicap, giving them a nett score of 60.9 shots.

The Presidents team were treated to a beaker of Gloria Rockcliffe’s special coffee, which was doused with Baileys. This made the holes look smaller so we didn’t do so well on scoring, but the coffee was good.

The picture is of the winning team.

Suffolk Golf Captains v Essex Golf Captains

The annual renewal of this fixture took place on 23rd May 2019 at Newton Green Golf Club. The weather was set fair and with a multi tee start there was no long period of standing and waiting before or after.

The early Suffolk Groups were in fine form with the acting President Chris Briggs standing in for Keith and winning well. The next group won too but that was the end of the good news with the Essex side completing a comprehensive win. We retired to the clubhouse where we enjoyed an excellent meal preceded by an under whelming birthday cake and a rousing chorus of happy birthday to the celebrant Peter Freeman the Essex secretary who spent his birthday afternoon playing for the opposition with Paddy Lockwood as the curse of on the day calls off struck again.

The meal was excellent, the wine was good and Peter offered to buy us all a drink so a good day was had by all. We did notice that despite winning last year the trophy, now happily mended, had been engraved showing Essex as winners. So the good news is that history will show us winning today.
Immediate Past it captain Chris Briggs did his usual witty speech and is pictured below handing the trophy to Essex captain Barry Larcombe.

Suffolk Golf Captains v Bedfordshire Golf Captains

After last weeks rain off at Halesworth the Suffolk Captains returned to match duties this week with the 4th renewal of the rivallry with our becoming Old friends from Bedfordshire. The weather behaved and allowed a number of brave souls to play in shorts. Suffolk had two debutants, one Peter Mallinson after 8 years of avoiding playing and Ken Parry-Brown who joined recently and is this years captain at Halesworth.

Before hostilities began we were treated to the most fantastic light lunch. The course was in great shape and was thoroughly enjoyed by all especially El Cid masquarading as Chris Foster, the Bedfordshire Captain who stripped Keith Cresswell of his unbeaten tag at the first time of asking. However there were many close games through the field. The secretary, playing from the reserve berth with John Pywell found themselves 5 down after 11 and contemplating an early bath. A run of 4 wins in successive holes meant a tense finish and it was great to see the Beds player Martin Pettit hole a 5 foot downhill putt on the 18th to win 1 up.

So to dinner that was in the same category as lunch and with bated breath we awaited the result. It was close, as all our matches have been but yes it was a home win by 5.5 to 4.5. There was little sign of joyous celebration as we had all eaten well and the challenge for next year was laid down for our away trip.

The photo below shows Suffolk President Keith Cresswell receiving the cup from Chris Foster.

The Suffolk Captain Spring Meeting and AGM May 1st 2019

The Association of Suffolk Golf Captains held their Spring Meeting and AGM at Haverhill Golf Club on Wednesday May 1st 2019.

There was a really good turnout of Captains and Past Captains from across the County to enjoy the Haverhill Golf Club hospitality. We were lucky with the weather as the warm spring sunshine helped to bring out the very best golf for some of the same old names. The course was in excellent condition.

The only downside was that Association Secretary Paddy Lockwood allowed the AGM prior to the meal to drag on for a full 11minutes cutting into the Captains drinking time.

Outgoing President Chris Briggs thanked everybody for their support during his year as Captain which, save for a couple of matches, was extremely successful culminating in a magnificent win at Saunton Golf Club beating 12 other Captains Associations. The    incoming President Keith Cresswell asked all current members to make a point of encouraging their new club captains to join the Association.

The meal was a delightful carvery served up by catering team one of which, Holly, celebrated her birthday with a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday” from the Captains.

Workaholic Secretary Paddy Lockwood continued to display his masterful organisational skills by ploughing on with the formal part of the evening

Playing for the Nigel Parker Salver an individual stableford competition produced the following results

Winner - Gary Slaymaker - Halesworth Golf Club 40 points
2nd  - Nick Bonney - Bury St Edmunds Golf Club 37 points on countback
3rd - Michael Coventry - Halesworth Golf Club 37 points on countback
4th Chris Briggs from Haverhill Golf Club 37 points on countback
5th Charlie Wilderspin 36 points

Les Turner took the Past Presidents Trophy

The evening was topped off by the passing over of the magnificent Presidential chain of office from Chris Briggs to Keith Cresswell. Good luck in your year as President Keith

1st Place for Gary Slaymaker with the Nigel Parker Salver

2nd place Nick Bonney

3rd place Michael Coventry

4th Chris Briggs

5th place Charlie Wilderspin

Chris Briggs hands over the Presidential reigns to Keith Cresswell

Outgoing President Chris Briggs tells it as it is

Grace

Past Presidents Trophy winner Les Turner

Paddy holds court

Patio at Haverhill

Suffolk Golf Captains v Cambridgeshire Area Golf Captains

The first match of the year was held at the Girton Golf Club on the 15th April 2019 on a lovely sunny day. A big thank you to Tony Dartnell and Adrian Gipson for standing in at the last minute as other members had gone sick the day before. One thing was missing on the day and that was the Suffolk Secretary who stated he was unable to play as it was his Ruby Wedding Anniversary, in his absence everyone raised their glasses and toasted the happy couple.

Before the match we had a light lunch of Bacon Rolls & Coffee and after the match we had a very good dinner of Steak & Ale Pie followed by Blueberry Cheesecake.

The President in his speech congratulated Girton Golf Club on the condition of their course and how quick the greens were.

Now down to the result, Cambridge ½ and Suffolk 7 ½, the Suffolk President Chris Briggs was pleased to received the Replica Ryder Cup from the Cambridge Captain John Fuller. 

See the below picture, which shows the President doing so well to hold his stomach in while I took his picture.

Suffolk Golf Captains V Golf Club Managers Association

The final match of the year was held at the Links GC (Newmarket) in mid October. It was not a great day for the secretary who had organised a lift but then found himself too ill to even go and tell him that he was ill. Well done to Allan Wells and Keith Cresswell, who, used to being thrown in at the deep end, stood in with alarming success.

Newmarket and their manager were particularly helpful in that the current vice captain was “press ganged” into playing some more golf having already got wet through in the morning. On the subject of weather I am told it could have been much worse.

Anyway, President Chris Briggs put in his usual pep talk and this seemed to work as the side ran out as winners by 7 - 3. The more astute will note we played 20 aside, a measure of how much this fixture is enjoyed by both sides. Another quick mention for Chas, my replacement, who knowing my skills lost his match with Chris Gwinnett-Sharp as I am sure I would have done.

With the unique formula of tea and cake to follow play (preceded by breakfast!) the whole day was greatly enjoyed.

Pictured is Chris Briggs receiving the trophy from Bob Tawell.

Saunton Salver 2018 played on Wednesday 10th and Thursday 11th October 2018 at Saunton Golf Club

For the 4th year Suffolk Golf Captains made the exhausting trip from one side of the country to the other. Unlike some years the travels were accident free for a change and we managed to play 18 holes practice on the Tuesday before the big competition.

Captains from Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, Hampshire, Herefordshire and Shropshire, Oxfordshire, South Wales, Staffordshire, Suffolk, Surrey/Wiltshire and Worcestershire made up the 144 player.

At the end of Day 1 Suffolk were laying in 3rd place with 170 points being headed by the holders Derbyshire on 174 and Worcestershire on 171. It had been a windy day but the team had packed well with leading performances from Garry Clark and David Kerswell (Bury St Edmunds) on the west course and Brian Kemp (Felixstowe Ferry) and Andrew Long (Flempton) on the harder East Course.

Day 2 saw the Suffolk Teams first away with friends from Oxfordshire. A quicker speed of play clearly suited the team. The weather threatened to be awful but just about held itself together with the exception of a couple of spells of rain and wind. The team had performed well and the team donned there jackets for the presentation dinner.

After collecting a good number of balls for 2’s it was great to see Dave Hornsby (Fynn Valley) and Andrew Cornish (Haverhill) declared the winners on the tough East Course with 39 stableford points. Our leading performers on the West Course was the evergreen Chris Pearson (Felixstowe Ferry) and President Chris Briggs (Haverhill).                     

       
With bated breath we listened to the overall presentation. In third place with 344 points on Countback were Derbyshire the outgoing holders. In second place with 344 points were Devon and the winners with 345 points Suffolk. Let the celebrations begin.

The Suffolk Team of Chris Briggs, Andrew Cornish (both Haverhill), Chris Pearson, Brian Kemp, Peter White (all Felixstowe Ferry), Dave Hornsby (Fynn Valley), John Cunnell (Seckford), David Kerswell (Bury St Edmunds), Garry Clark (Brett Vale) and Andrew Johnson and Paddy Lockwood (Newton Green) are pictured with Saunton Captain after the Salver had been presented to Chris Briggs. (Andrew Long (Flempton) was absent at the time of the photograph)

It is anticipated that there will be a rule change for next year with the team assisted by the professional caddying teams who are pictured below after the presentations.

We had decided this was the last year but now we may have to defend it. Next years dates are 9th and 10th October. Who wants to come?

Autumn Meeting

Halesworth Monday 24th September 2018

The Association of Suffolk Captains held their 2018 Autumn meeting at the much improved Halesworth Golf Club on Monday September 24th. The weather was set fair and the course was in extremely good condition considering the long hot dry summer.

42 Suffolk Captains, Past Captains and Associates from across the County enjoyed a great days golf competing in the 18 hole stableford competition playing for the individual and sort after Peter Grieves Trophy, Brian Belle Team Trophy and the Millennium Salver (best combined scores of the Spring and Autumn meetings).

Paul Boon (Waldringfield) had a superb 40 points to take the Peter Grieve Trophy with Association Secretary Paddy Lockwood (Newton Green) coming in with 37 points to secure 2nd place followed by Colin Aldous (Ufford Park) 3rd place with 35 points on countback.

Brian Kemp (Felixstowe Ferry) took the Millennium Trophy following a great round at Brett Vale at the Spring meeting and a steady round at Halesworth.

The Belle Trophy went to a strong Felixstowe Ferry team comprising of Steve Foster, Brian Kemp and James Douglas – Hamilton.

The golf was followed by the presentation supper, superb Roast Beef & Yorkshire Pudding with an Apple Crumble and Custard dessert. The presentation conducted by Secretary Paddy Lockwood with President Chris Briggs presenting the prizes was a jolly affair as usual, much enjoyed by the winners with much jealousy from the losers.

Our thanks to the hosts at Halesworth Golf Club for a super day.

RESULTS
Peter Grieve Trophy
1 Paul Boon 40pts
2 Paddy Lockwood. 37pts
3. Colin Aldous 35pts
4 Donald Munro 35pts
5 Garry Clark 35pts
Millennium trophy
Winner Brian Kemp
Belle trophy
Winning team Felixstowe Ferry GC Steve Foster, Brian Kemp and James Douglas.- Hamilton

Suffolk Captains v Suffolk Lady Captains

As we near the end of our 40th year it was good to meet up with fellow celebrants for the Skevington Rose bowl which was held at Newton Green GC on Thursday 16th August 2018.

Paddy held his breath on the lead up to the match as the weather forecast looked worse and worse and indeed on the day it rain poured but the rain hardened team stoically turned up and with resigned enthusiasm went out to play. Initially he was saddened that the Anne had arrived with a late call off meaning she had to play alone. Buoyed by the new skill of counting he had learned Paddy realised there were indeed 12 in the opposition so ended happily

The weather cleared by 2.45pm so over half the round was dry. The ladies, protesting in previous years about the colour of the tee were presented with 2 courtesy shots and the men played from white tees. I understand that there were some good games however the men ran out winners by 4 ½ to 1 ½ and retained the trophy for this this year.

The meal was enjoyed by all and a return to Newton Green would be welcomed.

Chris Briggs is pictured with Anne Archer receiving the Skevington Rose Bowl.

Suffolk Captains v Norfolk Captains

The renewal of this fierce rivalry took place on Wednesday 11th July at Bungay and Waveney Valley Golf Club. Without going into detail this turned into a logistical nightmare and thanks to James Gardiner and Richard Nichols who volunteered to go home without playing.

Bearing in mind the weather this year the course played well I am told and there were indeed some close matches. Vice President Keith Cresswell again took the helm as the secretary dropped himself again and played bridge instead.

Local captain Steve Rowe making his team debut played alongside president Briggs who was still having a nose bleed after his score in the presidents day. However they won and I am sure that local knowledge assisted. Weighed down by organisational issues Keith lost but the rest of the team did very well and we ran out 6 – 3 winners. We haven’t won this match for a couple of years so it was good to get back to winning ways.

The catering was of a high standard though it has to be said that most were more worried about where they were going to watch the world cup semi-final. As usual there are no photographs of the presentation but at least we all know what happened.

Thanks Bungay for looking after us and we look forward to returning soon.

Suffolk Golf Captains v East Anglian Farmers Golf Society

The Alderton Cup match returned to Ryston Park near Downham Market for the renewal of friendships with our farming friends. It would be good to say that things went well but that wouldn’t be true. The secretary carefully remembering to bring everything left the Alderton cup at home.

The effect of the continued hot weather was clear for all to see but we soldiered on getting hotter and hotter. One of the Suffolk team visited Royston first and reported it was just as hot there before hurrying across Cambridgeshire to Norfolk in time to play but missing out on his ham egg and chips.

Recent years have seen a number of wins for the captains but it was not to be this year as the farmers won a great series of matches by 4 ½ to 3 ½ .

Pictured below are members of both teams either looking for the cup that was still on the secretary’s dining room table or queuing for the hastily changed menu of meat and salad. With the cup absent there is no picture of the presentation!!

Suffolk Golf Captains v Hertfordshire Golf Captains

On a warm, if not hot afternoon, 16 players from each County met at Stowmarket GC for their annual tussle.

President elect Keith Cresswell was put in charge of the pre match team talk and this he used to good effect on himself as he teamed up with Keith Ribbans to win handsomely. The secretary partnered by Allan Wells found themselves in a huge struggle which eventually went Suffolk’s way thanks to a good put on the 17th. Strangely have implored the sides to keep up with play the secretary let the team down by dropping 2 holes and was roundly told off by Trevor Mason and Barry Storey for so doing. Despite this slowness the rest of the team packed well leading to a winning score of 5 ½ to 2 ½ to Suffolk.

We adjourned to the clubhouse for a welcome drink and a very tasty meal provided by the recently arrived caterers. With no cup to play for there was no presentation so pictured are the Keith and Jan having enjoyed the meal.

Suffolk Golf Captains v Essex Golf Captains

The Suffolk team played Essex Captains at Harwich and Dovercourt GC with a 20 aside match being agreed.

Suffolk have played second fiddle to their opponents in recent times but recently elected President Chris Briggs certainly had a fully motivated team with him on this occasion. A most enjoyable afternoon ended with Suffolk winning 9 -1 much to all our surprises.

President Briggs is pictured with Essex Captain Phil Smith being presented with the trophy. The picture does tend to show who had won.

SUFFOLK CAPTAINS PRESIDENTS MEETING – July 2018

The Association of Suffolk Golf Captains held their annual Presidents Meeting at Ufford Park Golf Club on Thursday 5th July 2018.

This meeting also celebrated the 40th anniversary of the formation of the Association in 1978.

Sixty Six Members and Guests from other associations that the Captains play in annual matches attended, with representations from Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk Ladies and the Golf Club Managers Association.

The competition was a four ball better ball stableford

The Ufford Park course was in excellent condition, particularly the greens which played very true and reflected in some superb scores. Association President Chris Briggs and his playing partner Tom Harrison from Haverhill Golf Club stormed to a fantastic 46 points. It was a day that 40 points was very average. Runners up were Keith Ribbans and Danny Lumley (Brett Vale) 44 points. The winners of Guests Prize were Jan Cembala and Eric Diment (Hertfordshire) 41 pts

The golf was followed by an excellent meal followed by Presentations and a short but succinct and humorous address by one of the founding Captains, Graham Barber.

All involved in the day received an engraved wine glass in acknowledgement and memoir of the 40th Anniversary

Winner of Guests Prize Jan Cembala and Eric Diment (Hertfordshire) 41 pts with President Chris Briggs

Runners up Keith Ribbans and Danny Lumley (Brett Vale) 44 pts with Chris Briggs

Winners were President himself Chris Briggs and Tom Harrison (Haverhill) 46pts. Prize presented past President Brig Archer

Great Turnout

Graham Barber addresses the Members and Guests

Narrow defeat at South Beds for Suffolk Captains

Suffolk Golf Captains played the Bedfordshire Golf Captains at the challenging South Beds Golf Club, close to Luton, on Thursday 17th May 2018. It was a glorious day for golf warm and sunny but sadly not so glorious for the strong Suffolk team of 20 good men who sadly failed to retain the trophy they had won the previous year. Bedfordshire Captains eventually won by 6 matches to 4. The golf was followed by a super carvery and New President Chris Briggs was forced through gritted teeth to present the trophy to the opposition President Barry.

Not to worry we will win next year.

Suffolk Golf Captains Spring Meeting & AGM at Brett Vale

The Association of Suffolk Golf Captains held their 2018 Spring Meeting and AGM at Brett Vale Golf Club on Wednesday May 2nd. Sadly it was another wet day sandwiched between a warm and sunny day before and a warm and sunny day after. The association members going out first had the worst of the weather which improved later in the day. Those having a later start times benefited as reflected in the winning scores. The pretty course at Brett Vale was in excellent condition and a pleasure to play. The Nigel Parker Trophy, an individual stableford competition, was won with a superb 39 points from past Felixstowe Ferry Captain Brian Kemp playing off a 12 handicap. Brian was a clear winner by 3 points from Michael Coventry from Halesworth Golf Club with 36 points.  Third place went to home past Captain Brett Vales Garry Clark with 35 points.

Brian Kemp receives the Nigel Parker Trophy from President Brig Archer

The Past Presidents cup went to Les Turner from Haverhill Golf Club on count back from Felixstowe Ferry’s Chris Pearson.

The 2018 AGM followed the presentations and Chris Briggs from Haverhill Golf Club was duly elected as President for 2018/19

Results

Nigel Parker Trophy

1.            Brian Kemp (Felixstowe Ferry GC) (12)                   39 pts
2.            Michael Coventry (Halesworth GC) (19)                 36 pts
3.            Garry Clark (Brett Vale GC) (12)                                 35 pts
4.            Paddy Lockwood (Newton Green GC) (16)           34 pts
5.            Colin Aldous (Ufford Park GC) (13)                           34 pts (ocb)

Past Presidents Cup

1.            Les Turner - Haverhill GC                                              25pts ocb
2.            Chris Pearson – Felixstowe Ferry GC                       25 pts

The Association of Suffolk Golf Captains comprises of both past and current Captains from most of the Suffolk Clubs. There are also nine associate members who are past Captains from clubs in other counties who now reside in Suffolk.

During the playing year there are seven matches and two main meetings. The matches are against the Cambridge Captains, Essex Captains, East Anglian Farmers, Hertfordshire Captains, Norfolk Captains, Suffolk Lady Captains and the East Anglian branch of the Secretary’s Association.

If you are a Captain or past Captain and would like to join the Association please contact Secretary Paddy Lockwood by email suffolkgolfcaptains@gmail.com

Go to the website at www.suffolkgolfcaptains.co.uk or download the APP via Google Play or the App Store at this link http://wsu.ma/golfcaptains

Texas Scramble – Thorpeness GC Wednesday 25th April

This year is the 40th anniversary of the forming of both the Association of Suffolk Golf Captains and the Suffolk Ladies Past and Present Captains Society and during their annual confrontation last year for the Skevington Rose Bowl the idea of a joint meeting was discussed and this event is the fruition of that.

48 players descended on Thorpeness with the organisers Anne Archer and Paddy Lockwood most unsure as to how it would go. All was in order however as the 12 teams battled the course and to the hilarity of most of the teams the last 3 teams fought through a hail storm and arrived wet through at the clubhouse. An excellent meal was had by all and we were welcomed by current Thorpeness captain Robin Leggate before the presentations were made.

Winners on the day were Pam Evans, Di Heggarty, Chris Gwinnett-Sharp and Malcolm Crissell with a most respectable 59.4 shots. There were presentions to runners up and 3rd place and best front nine and back nine so a lot of the field went home with wine.

Paddy is regularly reminded by this press guru to get pictures but due to being in one of the wet groups he forgot about pictures until Needham Market on the journey home so there will be no pictorial record of the winners.

The review of the day by both camps was very positive and it is hoped that his will become and annual event.

Association of Suffolk Golf Captains v Cambridgeshire Area Golf Captains.

The first match of the season took place at Felixstowe Ferry GC on a pleasant day. Our local rivals were keen to play at this venue especially secretary Stuart Watson who was missing on the day due to a surgical visit to the local hospital. We wish him a speedy recovery. Match manager Ray and Secretary got proceedings off to a start with much less mistakes than in previous years. In the end after some really close games and the traditional re counts the match ended in a half at 4 pts each. A most enjoyable afternoon was had by all. The meal was the excellent as usual. Following this we were treated to his only joke of the year by Brig in his last match of his year. Cambs captain Terry and Brig are pictured with the shared trophy this year.

Suffolk Golf Union AGM

The new season is upon us and members are bombarded with information about events and matches as another busy summer stretches before us.
President elect Chris Briggs and Hon Sec Paddy Lockwood attended the recent Suffolk Golf Union AGM at Bungay and Waveney Golf Club. The Association donated £500 towards the costs of the junior programme to the Chair of Suffolk Juniors Trevor Mason. The association was thanked during the meeting for their support for the juniors which played its part in the performance of the County sides and will help raise those standards in the coming years.

Chris is pictured below presenting the cheque.

Update on Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire Matches.

The season started with our match against Cambridgeshire at The Links GC in Newmarket. The only call off on the day was the secretary which was a blessing however it resulted in absolutely no photographs being taken on Chris Pearson’s last duty as President.

On a pleasant afternoon some tight golf ended with a narrow win for Suffolk with our friendships renewed in a match played in excellent spirit. Dinner was excellent and a good day was had by all.

The next match was the renewal of our recently established rivalry with friends from Bedfordshire. The match was held at Newton Green GC and saw the teams play for the brand new cup that was on show for the first time. If the previous match was close this was very close and indeed needed a stewards enquiry to decide who would hold the cup with a 5 – 5 scoreline. Secretary Paddy Lockwood won the argument that we had the cup as we had won the previous year so was pleased to take the cup home for safe keeping for this year. An excellent carvery followed the golf and thanks to Newton Green for the flexible arrangments on the day.

The photographs below show :
Mick Firth, the Bedfordshire Captain enjoying watching the rain fall while Chris Briggs the substitute President plays with his phone.

The new cup without the head and shoulders of Chris involved due to operator incompetence.

Match v Hertfordshire

There was a lot of comment surrounding the cardiac values of the Royston GC track before the intrepid team set out for this match. Orchestrated by the recently installed secretary this turned out to be a good days golf that was not won by us. It was a really hot day and saw an early removal of jackets at dinner.

The secretary failed to play again preferring to work in Manchester and once again there was not a surplus of photographs from the day. Well actually none.
Anyway it was a good day, good food and much enjoyed by all.

Match vs Essex

The match versus Essex was played in glorious sunshine at Brett Vale GC. The golf was played in a competitive but friendly manner and was enjoyed by all. Essex were so confident about retaining the trophy that they forgot to bring it, but in the end were beaten 71/2 – 21/2.

The proceedings were orchestrated for the Suffolk team by stand-in secretary Keith Cresswell who did a magnificent job.

The course was in fine condition and the clubhouse staff looked after the proceedings well. Thank you Brett Vale.

Captains v Farmers

Well what a day that was. We arrived at Rushmere GC all checking the weather forecast for the arrival of rain during the afternoon. The optimists went for 6pm the pessimists for 3pm. Lunch was a huge portion of ham, egg and chips and we quickly got ready to play. Most of the matches were closely contested though President Brig and Chris Ward did have a big win. Chris is pictured below celebrating said win.

Following some historical investigations it was established that the Farmers had been far more successful than they themselves believed. Secretary Andrew Thurston was therefore surprised that the arrival of the last pair to the clubhouse was important to the result. Alas for the farmers it was not to be as the last group of John Pywell and Murray Staines delivered the all important point for the win by 5 to 3. What was more important was that we all got in without getting wet!

We adjourned to dinner with ASGC member Sean delivered a further huge portion of food that was enjoyed by all before the presentation of the Alderton Cup by President Jeremey Thompson to Brig.

Another successful day and a big thankyou to Rushmere for looking after us so well. As one member said in an email the following day. I enjoyed my debut and now don’t need to eat for a week.

Spring Meeting Thursday 4th May 2017 – Felixstowe Ferry GC

A strong gusting NE wind greeted players producing a tough day for good golf scores. As per usual there were a number of good results:
The morning 9 hole competition on the Kingsfleet Course results from 24 starters was
1st Keith Ribbans(15) – Brett Vale 21 pts
2nd Gary Slaymaker (11) – Halesworth 19pts ocb (12 last 6)
3rd Nick Bonney (10) – Bury St Edmunds 19pts ocb (11 Last 6)

A small mention for Charlie Wilderspin (Rookery Park) and Roy Barnes (Ufford Park) who also scored 19 pts but missed out on the prizes.

The afternoon round for the Presidents Cup, The Nigel Parker Trophy and the first round of the millennium cup draw an entry of 50 soon to be cold and wind swept golfers only some of whom scored well!

The results were:

Nearest the pin on 12 – Gary Slaymaker (Halesworth)
Nearest the pin in 2 @18 – Martin Allen (Waldingfield)
The Presidents Cup was retained by a surprised James Gardiner (Halesworth) with a score of 26 pts.
The prize winners for the Nigel Parker Trophy were:
1st Nick Bonney (10) – Bury St Edmunds 35pts ocb (3 at the 18th)
2nd Doug Pipe (16) – Felixstowe Ferry 35 pts (2 at the 18th)
3rd Chris Briggs (13) – Haverhill 34 pts ocb (19 on last 9)
4th Peter White (7) – Felixstowe Ferry 34 pts (18 on last 9)
5th Charlie Wilderspin (13) Rookery Park 33 pts ocb (6 on last 3)
6th Paul Boon (8) Waldingfield 33 pts (5 on last 3)

Special mention for Chris Gwinnett-Sharp who had a hole in one on 16 using a 5 iron witnessed by playing partners, Charlie Wilderspin, Alan Keyte and Paddy Lockwood. Having managed an amazing 10 pts on the first 12 holes he went on to score 18 on the last 6!

Winning players Nick Bonney with Nigel Parker Trophy and Keith Ribbans

Following the golf and an excellent meal the AGM voted in Brig Archer (Brett Vale) as the incoming president. He is pictured below wearing the chain of officer after the presentation by Chris Pearson.

Suffolk Golf Captains season 2017

The new season is around the corner and members have responded in large numbers for the matches to be played for this year with some oversubscribed by up to 3 times the required number.

However the first event of the year was attended by Council Members Brig Archer and Chris Briggs which was the recent Suffolk Golf Union AGM. The association was pleased to again support the Suffolk Junior section as Brig was able to present retiring youth Chairman Mike Stevenson with a cheque for £500 during the event.

The secretary has recently received the below from Suffolk GU:-

On behalf of Suffolk Junior Golf may I thank you and your Association for your generous support of the County Juniors. It is greatly appreciated.

Regards and thanks
Charlie Wilderspin
Secretary Suffolk Golf Union

SUFFOLK CAPTAINS AUTUMN MEETING

The Association of Suffolk Golf Captains held the 2016 Autumn Meeting at Hintlesham Golf Club on Wednesday 12th October 2016.

The weather was kind for both the morning and afternoon competitions with an odd shower here and there but it was generally warm. The wind picked up in the afternoon but there were still some spectacular scores from very impressive field of 50 Captains from all corners of the County. The rough has been cut back to speed up play for visiting societies at Hintlesham which meant that it was quite hard to get into trouble which in turn enhanced the chances of some big stableford scores from some of the players, whilst the rest as is tradition, were left trailing behind.

The morning competition was over 12 holes and a very competitive event which was won by Chris Gwinnett-Sharp (Bury St Edmunds) with 27 points on countback from Stowmarket’s Ian Duncan; Gary Slaymaker from Halesworth was third with 26 points

It was very busy day at Hintlesham and the big field for afternoon round necessitated that we had a two tee start, with the Autumn nights closing in it was a reflection on the Association Secretary Paddy Lockwood’s superior organisational skills that every player completed their round in daylight.

Following the action we all enjoyed a tasty roast beef meal followed by apple crumble and an entertaining Presentation of trophies from the Associations’ answer to Laurel and Hardy, President Chris Pearson and Secretary Paddy Lockwood.

The winner of the afternoon competition and the new holder of the Peter Grieve Trophy was Gary Clark (Bury St Edmunds) from John Cunnell (Seckford) on countback with 42 points.

The Winner of the combined aggregate Spring and Autumn Meetings playing for the Millennium Salver was Gary Clark (Bury St Edmunds) with 78 points Alan Middle (Seckford) and James Douglas-Hamilton (Felixstowe Ferry) were in joint Second place on 75 points

The Winners of the Belle Team Trophy were Halesworth best three scores totalled 107

A great day’s golf – Thank you to our hosts at Hintlesham for a very enjoyable day.

RESULTS

Morning 12 hole Competition
1st Chris Gwinnett-Sharp (Bury St Edmunds) 27 Points
2nd Ian Duncan (Stowmarket) 27 points
3rd Gary Slaymaker (Halesworth) 26 points

Peter Grieve Trophy –Afternoon individual 18 hole stableford competition
1st Gary Clark (Bury St Edmunds) 42
2nd John Cunnell (Seckford) 42 (countback)
3rd James Douglas-Hamilton (Felixstowe Ferry) 39
4th Paul Boon (Waldringfield) 39 (countback)
5th Alan Middle (Seckford) 38
6th Bill Havers (Newton Green) 38 (countback)h

Millennium Shield
The Millenium Shield for aggregate of both round in Spring and Autumn meeting
1st Gary Clark (Bury St Edmunds) 78
2nd Alan Middle (Seckford) and James Douglas-Hamilton (Felixstowe Ferry) 75
4th Bill Havers (Newton Green) 72

The Belle Trophy for best 3 score from club at which they were Captain.
1st Halesworth 107
2nd Felixstowe Ferry and Fynn Valley 103
4th Ipswich 100
5th Newton Green and Brett Vale 98.

Chris Gwinnett-Sharp receiving first prize for the morning round from President Chris Pearson

Gary Clark receiving the Peter Grieve Trophy

Gary Clark receiving the Millennium Shield

President Chris Pearson with Gary Slaymaker and the Halesworth team with the Belle Trophy

Suffolk Answer to Laurel & Hardy President Chris and Secretary Paddy Lockwood

Suffolk Golf Captains v Hertfordshire Captains Fynn Valley Golf 15th June

A Wednesday in June, a nice day for golf. Don’t believe it. I have never been so glad of a two tee start as the first 4 games to go off the first tee arrived a local player muttered the immortal phrase – “Don’t worry it won’t rain here.”

Within seconds it had thundered, there were flashes of lightning and it hailed and rained and hailed and the course soon resembled a swimming pool. Why were we lucky well the summer house at the tee just about accommodated us all. After a delay of almost 45 mins the intrepid pioneers known as the president of Suffolk Chris Pearson and the Captain of Herts decreed it was safe. We started.

The secretary was relieved there was some golf as the match was dogged by unavailability and was indebted to especially Michael Spencer and Bob Gibbs who stood in at the last minute to ensure we had a full side. It was a great match with the organiser having the scores at 2 ½ all with 3 matches to come. With due aplomb Suffolk triumphed in them all securing a convincing score. It was a game played in great spirit that continued into the restaurant where we treated to a most enjoyable meal.

Thanks to all at Fynn Valley.

Pictured below Suffolk President Chris Pearson is congratulated by Bob, the Hertfordshire captain.

East Anglian Farmers v Suffolk Captains - Thursday 2nd June 2016

The Farmer’s Captain, Andrew Thurston said that he had put together a strong team by including players who are members at the Gosfield Lakes Golf Club, so we knew that we would have a battle on our hands.

Once the first five teams came into the club house we knew it was going to be a close score, with the Suffolk Captains winning 3 games and the East Anglian Farmers winning 2 games

Chris Williams & Bill Darling won their match, it was then down to Colin Aldous, Brian Clarke, Godfrey Batley & Peter Mills who halved their games.

The match then finished 5 games to The Suffolk Captains & 3 games to the East Anglian Farmers.

It was then down to The Farmer’s President Jeremy Thomson to present the Trophy to Chris Pearson.

Jeremy said that the scores are getting closer so they will take the trophy away from us soon.

We had a very good meal supplied by Gosfield and all departed home at 7:30 pm.

Essex Captains v Suffolk Captains - Thursday 26th May 2016

The hardest part of the day was finding Woodford Golf Club unless you had been there before; this is where a sat-nav comes in very handy.

When we were ready to start the Essex Team were short of one player so the Woodford Golf Club Secretary stepped in to make up the numbers, which was not much help to James and myself as he took us apart 5 & 3, but he was able to show us where to find the next tee.

We agreed to change the teeing order to let two of the Woodford members go off first to show us the route round the course, followed by the Essex Captain and the Suffolk President. We all started off the first tee as there were only nine greens. We did ask if we could use the first and the tenth tees but they said that the greens may be a bit crowded with eight players trying to put out.

There were a few delays on the course to let dog walkers and cyclists cross the fairways.
It was a very pleasant day and played in the correct spirit. Unfortunately the result wasn’t what we wanted with Suffolk Captains loosing eight and half to one and half, well done Gary Slaymaker and Keith Ribbans for the one point with Gary Clark and Neil Ellice coming in with the half. Rest of us were still trying to work out the speed of the greens.

The day finished with a very good meal of Shepherd’s Pie followed by Spotted Dick and Custard.
The President presented the Trophy to the Essex Captain and we all departed for home at 9:00 pm.

Bedfordshire Report

The second match of the year was new to the Suffolk Captains side as an annual fixture with Bedfordshire captains was agreed during the winter recess.
Armed with Sat Nav and survival gear we set out for The Millbrook Golf Club on a pleasant spring day. Felixstowe Ferry members used a bus to ensure they all arrived (or none of them) using their professional driver for insurance.

Following an excellent lunch play commenced with President Pearson leading the way. The first two holes dispelled the myth that Bedfordshire was flat as a number of Suffolk Members suffered climbing long steep hills and did indeed recover in time to conquer the 11th which was a really steep hill. Anyway we all survived and in the final shake up the secretary losing 7 and 5 was immaterial as the team triumphed by a grand score of 6 pts to 4 to win the trophy. (We don’t actually have one yet but will have!!)

We adjourned to the clubhouse for an excellent dinner. I can say that is the first time I have had aubergine puree at a captain’s function (and hopefully won’t be the last). The excitement of the day was not over as one of the Suffolk members was taken unwell but following the arrival of the paramedic and ambulance I am pleased to say he has returned home with no lasting illness identified.

Thanks to our new friends in Bedfordshire and more especially The Millbrook GC for hosting such an excellent day.

Spring Meeting and AGM

Bury St Edmunds Golf Club hosted the Association of Suffolk Golf Club Captains Spring Meeting and AGM on Tuesday 4th May 2016. The sun shone on the Captains as never before, it normally rains at our Spring Meeting but this time our secretary Paddy Lockwood pulled out all the stops, spoke to the right people and organised the best weather we have had for a long time, a wonderful warm May Day with a slight breeze.

The morning 9-hole competition was played on the splendid 9-hole pay & play course. The course has matured into a real challenge with some great holes the big greens were in excellent condition. I did say a challenge, well it was for some of us but Ray Sargeant from Fynn Valley blew the field away with a superb 23 points. With a cluster of players on 19 and 20 points it did mean that Paddy’s maths were again put to the test.

In the afternoon round on the 18-hole course a familiar name retained the trophy. Alan Middle from Seckford had a great 37 points beating Stowmarket’s Pat Shephard on countback with 14 points on the last 6 holes. The course was in excellent condition with one temporary green on the 6th hole and it was playing its full length (particularly if you played off the white tees). Obviously there has been a lot of work put into the course recently and a lot of trees have been taken out making real improvements to a very good golf course. There were some really good scores and predictably some very average scores... we don’t think we can blame the course or the weather this time, got to think of some different excuses for the future.

Excellent hospitality and a very enjoyable meal preceded the AGM and presentations. The AGM traditionally a very speedy affair seemed to drag this year completed in about 7 minutes. President Barry Storey handed over the reins to Chris Pearson for the coming 12 months and Paddy agreed to continue for the next 10 to 20 years as “Organiser Supreme”.

A great day was had by all, thank you to the management and staff at Bury

RESULTS

AM – 9-Hole individual Stableford

1st Ron Sargeant - Fynn Valley 23pts

2nd Ian Ransby - Halesworth 20pts (15 last 6)

3rd Brig Archer - Brett Vale 20 pts (14 last 6)

Nigel Parker Salver – 18 hole individual Stableford

Alan Middle - Seckford 37pts (last 6 14pts)

Pat Shephard - Stowmarket 37 pts (last 6 11)

Garry Clarke - Bury St Edmunds 36 pts (last 9 16)

Charlie Wilderspin - Rookery Park 36pts (last 9 15 last 6 12)

James Douglas Hamilton - Felixstowe Ferry 36pts (last 9 15 last 6 11)

Barry Storey - Bury St Edmunds 35pts (on countback)

Past Presidents Cup was won by James Gardiner – Halesworth

The crowd excited by the AGM

Barry Storey races through the AGM as the members demand

Barry Storey passes on the Presidents Chain to Chris Pearson

AM winner Ron Sargeant Fynn Valley

President Chris Pearson Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club

Past Presidents Trophy Winner James Gardiner

Winner of the Nigel Parker Salver Alan Middle

11th Bury St Edmunds from the yellow tee

Season starts at Waldringfield Golf Club

The Suffolk Captains season got off to a cold, but dry start at Waldringfield Golf Club where we entertained our friends from Cambridgeshire.

The team was led off by Chris Pearson (Felixstowe Ferry) who, partnered by Bill Darling managed a valuable point thanks to Bill playing the back 9 very well and it was all about a putt on the last green! The secretary lost 2 down and a further defeat and the writing was on the wall for another loss. It was inspired play by the remaining groups who all won their matches to leave Suffolk winning by 6pts to 2. Special mention to Bob Cousins (St Clements) who made his debut and partnered by Mark Edgerley is now one of the few unbeaten Suffolk Captains.

Following some competitive and enjoyable golf played in great spirit we retired to the bar for an excellent dinner. Thanks to the green staff and catering staff for an excellent welcome and day.

Pictured below is Chris Pearson receiving the cup from Cambridgeshire Captain David Creek.

Suffolk Golf Union AGM

President Barry Storey and the secretary were invited to attend the Suffolk Golf Union AGM held on Friday 1st April 2016. The AGM is preceded by a better ball pairs competition that saw the due come in with 39 points which was of course nowhere. Barry presented the Suffolk Golf Union President Paul Platten with a cheque for £500 for the Suffolk Junior Section.

Autumn Meeting - Halesworth Golf Club 21st September 2015

The secretary gives up. Another randomly chosen date and despite the early optimism it rained poured with the early starters getting slightly the better of the weather but still drowned. The skill of reading a wet piece of card is useful but one no further practice at would be useful.

It was a disappointing turn out of 39 (25 in the morning) who missed a course in excellent nick and a pleasure to play on despite the totally awful weather. Some were privileged to see a bagless electric trolley making its way down the fairway but most missed it. On another weather point even the peacocks failed to come out for a look preferring to shelter in the hedge. However we did welcome débutants in Keith Ribbans, Ian Bedford and Ian Ransby. 

In the morning the scoring was exceptional when of course it was dry and windless but the shorter course was still a good test for many. The afternoon scoring was as expected more reserved and some who scored well in the morning on 9 holes only just beat it in the afternoon over 18.

Following a warm shower we were royally entertained in the clubhouse. Dinner was about the best I have had for several years so well done chef. The Malbec was good too! We were welcomed by Ian Ransby the current mens captains at Halesworth. President Barry responded, (thankfully no joke!) and then presented the prizes as detailed below.

Prize giving followed the below results

AM
1st Alan Keyte (7) 25pts (29 gross -4)
2nd Gary Slaymaker (11) 23pts (14 last 6)
3rd Martin Ashburn (27) 23pts (12 last 6)

Peter Grieve Trophy

1st Alan Middle (7) 39pts
2nd Gary Clark (13) 36pts (17 back 9)
3rd Adrian Gipson (13) 36pts (16 back 9)
4th Chris Pearson (14) 35pts

Belle Team Trophy

1st Seckford (Middle 39, Gipson 36, Bedford 28)
2nd Brett Vale (Clark 36, Keyte, 27, Archer 28) (Not as announced!)
The more astute will note that Gary Clark has been transferred to Brett Vale rather changing the positions in the team competition. Better luck next year Bury St Edmunds.
3rd Felixstowe (Pearson 35, Kemp 29, Mason 23)

Millennium Salver

1st Alan Middle (42 + 39)
2nd Paddy Lockwood (41 + 32)
3rd Gary Clark (32 + 36)
4th Alan Keyte (37 + 27)

Thanks go to Halesworth Golf Club for hosting this event and especially all the staff for making it a most enjoyable day.