An excellent and encouraging turn out at 18 aside. Potentially we may have been able to secure several more, though both groups need earlier sign ups to help preparation.

 

The Ladies captain (Debbie Pearce) and her team organised the post-match catering and elected to play in pink in support of many undergoing and recovering from health issues. Quite poignant as we (Vens) set off with quickly reshuffled groupings following an illness.

 

Spirits were high as we approached the first tee. Though our first challenge - how would the Venerables cope with gifting approximately 200 shots to the ladies across the 9 groupings?

 

The course was in reasonable order and shots rolled considerable distances. Much to the advantage of both parties - I’ll not mention additional gain from a red tee box (sorry I did). There was a cry “Venerables should play off the Whites”. Beware next year. Though interestingly, a week earlier the Ladies held a ‘Welcome to Golf day’ with a professional coach to help encourage Ladies golf.

 

With 9 groupings we managed to return to the clubhouse in a reasonable time. After initial rehydration, much chatter was enjoyed about the game and life in general, accompanied with exotic sandwiches and fries.

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Results were collated: Opening with a Ladies win but quickly neutralised with a Vens win followed by a draw and another Vens win: So at that stage, Ladies 1 ½ to Vens 2 ½.

 

Excitement slipped a little as we were all square at the mid-point, but quickly recovered with a Vens win, two draws and a final Vens win. The overall result:

 

Ladies 3½ to Venerables 5½

 

Fantastic news: The Venerables retained and received the trophy from Mrs Akhtar.