The Society’s Golf Day on Friday September 12th dawned dry and bright. ‘Twas ever thus’ – as they don’t often say in the Valleys.
Four teams of three gathered to compete in a Texas Scramble. As usual there had been some last-minute changes. Colin Thomas recruited fellow Oaklands Park Golf Club member Jeff Rowlands, who hails from Penarth, to join us. Brian Evans joined not only to play but also to perform the role of a knight in shining armour. He drove the buggy which enabled Pam Britton to play the full 18 holes. Pam not only enjoyed the golf, she was also treated to a thrilling ride as Brian raced around the course searching for the ball after Ralph Broomby had hit some of his wilder shots!
Whilst the standard of golf may not have equalled that on display in the Ryder Cup, the competition result was much closer. The winning team of Pat Whitworth, Colin Thomas and Jeff Rowlands won by just one point. At the lunch, they were presented with well-deserved prizes of bottles of wine. The losing teams won no prizes but their consolation was an enjoyable morning out on the course in good company and fresh air.
After the morning’s golf a rather late lunch was served. The twenty diners included two prospective new members, Dafydd Thomas and Glenys Parry-Jones, who were warmly welcomed. They must have enjoyed the company as both confirmed their membership.
During a conversation with Dafydd, he asked me where I came from in Wales and proceeded to inform me that he had a cousin living there. It turns out that his cousin has been a friend of mine since junior school, one whom I still meet up with regularly. It’s a small world.
We extend our thanks to Oaklands Park Golf Club. Their course was in excellent condition and the two course lunch and service was as good as ever.
Thanks also to Colin for taking on some of the organising this year, and to all who participated and helped make it another enjoyable event.
Gwyndaf John
Each team included a member of Oakland Golf Club, who would be familiar with the course. Rob Britton led the first team to tee off, accompanied by Rob Brett and Ray Brown. The latter was a last minute replacement for the injured Brian Evans, but was an eminently well-qualified substitute as his wife is Welsh. Despite sharing the same initials this team did not always share the same opinion when trying to choose their “best” shot. Perhaps a consequence of putting two retired legal eagles in the same team.
Whitworth, and the third saw Colin Thomas partnered by Pat Whitworth and Alun McCarthy.
The end result was very close indeed. Though there were no birdies recorded, there were plenty of pars recorded on all the scorecards. In the end Pam, John and Gwyndaf scraped home as the winners. They took 81 strokes, just one stroke less than the two Robs’ and Ray. Another three behind were Colin, Pat and Alun.
After the golf the players were joined by other members of the Society for a splendid two course lunch. Among those attending were Elan and Robin Preston-Whyte who had travelled over from Egham. A later than usual start to the golf meant a late sitting for the meal, so thanks are due to all the non-playing guests for their patience.
Prizes were awarded to the winning team, and Gwyndaf and Rob were thanked for arranging the event.
Ladies nearest the pin: Jane Morris
Salmon with Beurre Blanc Sauce & veg followed by lemon tart with mixed berry compote and whipped cream
Due to Covid restrictions rules were changed to allow for social distancing. Conditions were good, with sunshine and a slight wind.
The supporters returned to the course at 12:30 to find the first group at eighteenth hole and accompanied them for refreshments at the 19th hole.
Some 30 minutes later the last group arrived – and when their scores were compared – proved to be the winners! Gwyndaf looked quite pleased.
Chairman David Powell presented the prizes to the winning team.
The day was well supported with 34 sitting down for lunch. It was agreed without dissent that the golf day will again take place at Oakland Park on 30 August 2019.
