It is always nice to start off a report with some good news, and this I can do. Mendip golfers have always considered that their course is more difficult to score on than many others, and so felt that they had an advantage over visiting golfers', handicap wise. This has now proved to be the case as the recent review of Standard Scratch has increased it from 71 to 72. This means that for the handicap golfer playing off white tees an even par round is 35 points Stableford or a nett 72. It will be interesting to see if this has any overall effects upon the Mendip golfers' handicaps during 2010.
Mendip golfers are renowned for their hardiness and so it was no surprise to find all the tees full at 09.30
on Saturday January 2nd for the Captain's Drive In. Despite a heavy frost, with all greens on temporaries (but no mats)
and a temperature of -3C there was a competitive atmosphere. It did warm up a little during the morning,
greatly helped by the tot of whisky/soup and hot sausage roll at the First tee. Bob Clark, our new Club Captain
drove in well, as did Nola Russell, the Lady Captain. It was good to see our new professional, John Goymer, playing.
After a pleasant drink and filling snack, prizes were presented.
The winning team with a very fine 93 points was
Leon Clay, John Davies, Ray Ashman and Trevor Davies. Second with 92 points (on the back 6) were David Gregory,
Jeff Hodder, Adrian Sond and Ron Curtis. Third also with 92 points were Keith Beasley, Norman Shillabeer,
Alan Evans-Jones and Pat Meatyard.
Ladies Team Cora Pavey, Carol Curtis, Libby Bellew & Andrea Williams 89 pts.
Mixed Team Anita & Phil Butcher, Jackie Wigley & David Pilbeam 97 pts (B9)
Nearest Lady Captain's Drive Vi Hayes
Nearest Captain's Drive Trevor Davies
Charity Car Parking Space Terry Carter
The car park space was drawn from the drum by Nola Russell and much to everybody's amusement she drew out
Bob Clark's name. He auctioned the space, which Terry won, bringing extra money to his charity.
The two charities being sponsored this year are Diabetes UK South West (for the Captain) and
the Air Ambulance (for the Lady Captain). It is hoped that members and visitors will generously support both
these worthy causes throughout the year.