As we head towards the Summer league this Friday’s round will be a fun game for the traditional bottle of high-quality red wine.
If the colour of a penalty area has not been marked or indicated as yellow or red by the Committee, it is treated as a yellow penalty area.
Answer is at the end of this newsletter
It’s time to get your name down for our singles knockout, played between April and August each year. Paddy Moran will be doing his level best to defend his title this year, I am sure. Our Competitions Secretary (Ian Smith) will be putting a sign-up sheet on the Seniors’ noticeboard by Friday of this week. The closing date for entries is Friday 3 April (Easter Friday). Once the draw has been made details will be posted in the newsletter and on the noticeboard.
Full rules for the competition are in the Strategy Rules & Guidelines document which can be accessed from the banner at the top of the newsletter or here. Rules of engagement for this prestigious competition are set out on pages 16 and 17 of the document. Please pay particular attention to how matches need to be arranged and the importance of getting them played by the deadline dates. Good luck and may the best Senior win!
How well do you know your fellow senior? Which of the following facts about Rob are true and which are false?
Answer below
Reporter: Paul Foster
The final round of the Winter League produced a myriad of scores and tales to be told in the bar.
The winter greens I’m convinced were designed by someone who’s never actually seen a golf ball roll. One putt bobbles left, the next one hops like it’s avoiding landmines, and the third one stops halfway like it’s suddenly remembered it left the oven on at home. I hit what I thought was a perfect putt from four feet; it took two bounces, changed postcode, and finished closer to the Manchester Ship Canal than the hole. At this point I’m not even looking at breaks anymore, I’m just aiming for the general county and hoping for the best. As Ian Goodman pointed out, my 15-foot putt on the 8th finished approximately 1” from the hole but spent most of its journey in mid-air!
Nineteen players from the 1st division, and twenty-two players in the 2nd division.
No 2s scored today, and not even a sniff of a par at hole 5. Official statistics reveal; birdies – nil, pars – nil, near emotional breakdowns – several, green hit in regulation – classified, confidence levels – under investigation. In conclusion, the 5th will be remembered not for birdies or pars, but for its incredible ability to humble every golfer who dared to challenge it. Future players on this winter hole are advised to approach it with caution, realistic expectations, and possibly a dream that someday a par will be achieved. Officially a par 3, but emotionally a par 12.
The returning antipodean Mr Craggs equalled the league high of 30 points (rounded up to 12 holes) and receives the largest cut in handicap this year. Love it!
To protect his identity the following senior’s name has been changed. Let’s call him Bill Berry. After careful examination of Bill’s submitted scorecard, the committee would like to congratulate him on producing one of the most creatively completed cards of the Winter League. Unfortunately, while the artistic use of scribbles, mystery numbers, an incorrect handicap, a name in the wrong section, scores completed for holes 10 to 17, (we only played one of those holes) and what appears to be a hieroglyph marked on the 16th, it made the actual score slightly difficult to determine. The marker’s signature resembled a weather chart. In the interest of maintaining golfing standards, and basic handwriting, the committee politely reminds players that scorecards should ideally include, correct name in the correct place, a correct handicap, a score for each actual hole played, a marker’s signature, a player’s signature and numbers that belong on a golf course rather than in a cryptography puzzle. We look forward to the next submission and remain hopeful that, one day, we may even be able to read it!
| Winner | Dave Meir | 26 points |
| Runner up | Paul Lennie | 24 points (CPO) |
| 3rd place | Grahame Brickell | 24 points |
| Winner | Dave Craggs | 30 points |
| Runner up | Steve Bramall | 26 points |
| 3rd place | Alan Copeland | 24 points (CPO) |
| Winner | Steve Gosling | 128 points |
| Runner up | Grahame Brickell | 127 points |
| 3rd place | Paul Foster, Paddy Moran, Dave Meir | 125 points |
| Winner | Barry Smith | 127 points |
| Runner up | Mervyn Roberts | 120 points |
| 3rd place | Paul Keenan | 119 points |
That concludes the Winter League, now onto the Summer League.
Winter golf has worn me down. Muddy fairways, frozen fingers, silly hats, flags stuck in the middle of uncut grass, and a ball that feels like a rock. You turn up on a dark miserable Friday morning full of hope, and leave wondering why we bothered. But summer golf… that’s the dream, fresh cut fairways, warm afternoons, and a round that ends with a cold beer on the patio. The kind of golf where the ball actually flies (off grass and not those pesky mats), the greens roll true, and you don’t need four layers just to swing a club. Bring on the sunshine and proper golf!
We will continue to use the winter handicaps, until such time as the course is deemed ready for WHS by the club, when we will all revert to our WHS handicaps.
Nothing to report this week as the course was scheduled to be closed for maintenance. Normal service will be resumed next week.
As the dates above are Easter Friday and Easter Monday there are no Seniors’ booking schedules. Please make your own bookings on IG for social golf.
False. See Definition of Penalty Area. If the colour of a penalty area has not been marked or indicated by the Committee, it is treated as a red penalty area.
All three facts are true! If Rob were a cat, he would now only have two thirds of his lives left.
Newsletter editor: Ian Goodman
In stroke play, a player playing from the teeing area misses the ball completely. They push the tee farther into the ground and then play the ball. What is the ruling?
Answer is at the end of this newsletter
Reporter – Martin Franks
Fine conditions made a pleasant change for the Seniors’ Betterball final played over 13 holes between Franks & Ranscombe and Pickles & Copeland. A very competitive match with never more than one hole in it was played to a high standard with a combined betterball score of 1 over par gross, which included gross birdies by Mark Pickles on the 6th and Martin Franks on the 8th.
Alan Ranscombe, who had bemoaned his play during the round, came good when it really mattered, as he’d done in previous rounds, with gross pars on 12 and 13 to seal a 2-hole win for him and Martin Franks.
(Editor’s note: Congratulations Martin and Alan. Solid golf throughout the competition. Well played also to Mark and Alan C for reaching the final).
Mary Queen of Scots may have invented the idea of the caddie. She played golf in the 1500’s and had a military cadet carry her clubs, possibly the origin of the word “caddie.”
Author: Ian Goodman. Photographs and AI Steve Barlow
Having scored 21 points on the front nine, our very own flying Dutchman decided to open up the green on the 11th by hitting his tee-shot towards the tree at the top of the bank on the 10th hole. Few of us would have had the imagination to try that. To make it even harder on himself, he opted to use the hosel of his five iron rather than the face of the club. Golfing genius! Having achieved his objective, Koos had to be hoisted into position on the precipitous bank by his two playing partners in order to play his second shot. By this time word of Koos’s audacious strategy had reached the clubhouse and a small crowd gathered to see what he would do next (see photograph below).
Following some uncharacteristically mediocre short play, Koos left the green with a well-earned six.
Reporter: Paul Foster
Early starters in the penultimate round were greeted with classic ‘British Spring’ conditions – steady rain, soggy fairways, only 8 holes open, and all on winter greens. It makes you question your life choices. A number of canny souls quickly decided being at home was the better option and pulled out. As the morning went on, the weather mysteriously improved for the later golfers, who enjoyed much drier conditions. The result? Record low numbers for the winter league with the field considerably smaller than usual. Those who did battle the elements deserve credit – if not for their scoring, then certainly for their commitment to keeping round 9 alive. Or at least for keeping the bar busy afterwards!
The entertainment continued in the car park, where I witnessed a small gathering of ‘experienced’ golfers in deep conversation – or at least attempting to be. With hearing aids at varying levels of effectiveness, the discussion quickly turned into a full volume exchange of shouts. “Where’s your card?”; “Eh?”; “Flat white for me“; “I haven’t seen him”. Several minutes passed with each gentleman confidently replying to questions that nobody asked. At one point three different conversations were happening simultaneously, none of which appeared to be related. Eventually everyone seemed satisfied that something important had been communicated, and they all retired to the bar for a bottle of red wine, (you know who you are). Great being a member of the seniors!
Just 6 players from the 1st division, and 13 players in the 2nd division.
No 2’s scored today.
All handicaps entered were correct for the first time ever, and all but 1 card was meticulously completed, well done all.
| Winner | Arthur Nuttall | 27 points |
| Runner up | Paul Foster | 26 points |
| 3rd place | Paul Collins | 21 points (CPO) |
| Winner | Alan Ranscombe | 27 points (CPO) |
| Runner up | Richard Yates | 27 points |
| 3rd place | Steve Bird | 26 points (with a 5 pointer on the 3rd) |
Going into the final round of the winter league:
Steve Gosling still leads the 1st division followed by Paddy Moran and Paul Foster.
Mervyn Roberts still leads the 2nd division, followed by Paul Keenan and Barry Smith.
Reporter: Peter Willson
A chilly grey and gloomy day with little bit of mist to start – however the rain held off and the skies lightened somewhat.
5 teams – 18 players – 3 x 4 players; 2 x 3 players
Good ol’ Team Stableford format
Winners: Mike Bennett, Colin Crail and Rich Yates – 77 points in total – 25.7 points per player.
Yes, they did again; last out and most of the other competitors waiting in the clubhouse with bated breath for their card! But through a “schoolboy” accounting error all was nearly lost. A swift re-count and the spoils were theirs to take home (again!).
In second place: Kevin Bocquet, Dave Craggs and John Hayes – 75 points or 25 points per player.
Highest Individual scores – Mike Bennett – 30 points and Steve Bramall – 29 points. Mr Handicap Secretary – I draw your attention 🙂
Answer 1 is correct. There is no penalty. See Rule 6.2b(6). If a player’s ball in play lies in the teeing area, they may lift or move the ball without penalty and play it from a tee or the ground anywhere in the teeing area.
Newsletter editor: Ian Goodman
In match play a player mistakenly picks up their ball-marker believing they have won a hole. What is the ruling?
Answer is at the end of this newsletter
Only one of the following statements about Andrew is correct. The other two are false. How well do you know your fellow senior?
Answer below
Reporter: Paul Foster
After months of winter conditions that tested all members patience, with saturated fairways, slow play, continuous rain, having to play a short course, and harsh conditions – there was real relief among members that spring golf may finally be on the horizon. This was the first day’s golf for many weeks when we were not dressed like Sherpa Tensing!
Scores reflected the improving conditions with nine players from 23 in the 1st division managing to score under par, and five players from 16 in the 2nd division also beating par.
Two 2s scored today, Paddy Moran & Russ Jones.
Two incorrect handicaps entered from the 1st division and two also from the 2nd division.
Lowest gross of the day belonged to Paddy Moran & Dave Meir, both finishing just 1 over par.
In the 1st division, second place was decided on a count-back from four winners with equal points, in what can only be described as the most dramatic non-winning moment in seniors section history, round 8 produced a finish so tight that several calculators, two pencils, one pair of reading glasses and twelve fingers were required to separate the contenders. After an intense review of scorecards, the 4 players scored a total of 29 points, Grahame Brickell scored 14 on the back 6, Paddy Moran, Barry McGuigan & Tony Dixon scored 13 points. Paddy, Barry & Tony scored 7 points on the back 3, Paddy & Barry scored 3 points on the last hole. (Editor’s note: I’m losing the will to live). Both scored 3 on the hole 3, 2 points on hole 7, 2 points on hole 8, finally Paddy beat Barry by scoring 4 points on hole 11 to Barry’s 3 points. (All this is explained in the handicap rules).
Post-Round Reactions:
One contender blamed a temporary lapse in concentration caused by Edgar and Allan Crowe
Another cited ‘winter mats trauma’
Meanwhile Grahame quietly waltzed off with the glory whilst everyone else argued over decimal margins.
Moral of the day:
In golf, every shot counts – especially the ones you thought didn’t matter at the time
And remember, nobody remembers who finished second……
PLEASE CHECK YOUR SENIORS’ HANDICAPS – link below
| Winner | Grahame Brickell | 29 points (CPO) |
| Runner up | Paddy Moran | 29 points (CPO) |
| 3rd place | Barry McGuigan | 29 points (CPO) |
| Winner | Richard Yates | 30 points |
| Runner up | Barry Smith | 28 points |
| 3rd place | Bob Ellison | 26 points |
Steve Gosling still leads the 1st division followed by Paddy Moran, John White & Mike Pigott.
Mervyn Roberts still leads the 2nd division, followed by Paul Keenan, Bob Ellison and John Hayes
Reporter: Steve Bird
It appears that Spring is trying very hard to meet the meteorological timetable for a start date of 1st March. This morning we were greeted by watery sunshine, no precipitation, daffodils and green keepers lightly mowing fairways. In short, the sap is beginning to rise!
A total of 16 players today made up two teams of four, two of three and one of two. For the first time in many weeks we were able to play holes 1 – 13.
The winning team with an average score of 27.75 were Alan Copeland, Charlie Hill, Steve Bramall and Steve Bird. The latter top scored with 31 points and I had the pleasure of watching Steve Bramall pitching in from a full 100 yards on the 12th for a 4 pointer.
Runners up with a creditable average of 26.75 were Colin Crail, Mike Bennett, Richard Yates and Tony Dixon.
Point of Admin:
Last night’s bookers will have noticed that the morning of 16 March was unavailable for booking in view of the course being closed for Spring maintenance. I apologise for this, but my original Seniors’ calendar said the maintenance was being done on the 23rd, so the club must have brought this forward by a week. So apart from a couple of minor amendments the schedule and bookers are the same for the 23rd as for the 16th.
Answer 3 is correct. See Rule 9.7b. The player gets one penalty stroke and must replace the ball or ball-marker.
Answer 2 is correct. Andrew and his wife did unknowingly crash two wedding breakfasts. He was a speedway rider, although not a member of the Aces team. Andrew never met Steptoe.
Newsletter editor: Ian Goodman
After playing a provisional ball, a player searches for their ball original ball for two minutes but then says, “It’s lost, I’ll go and play on with my provisional ball”. On the way to the provisional ball, the player’s original ball is found within the three-minute search time in a very bad lie. How must the player proceed?
Answer is at the end of this newsletter
Author: J M Goodier 26/2/2003
Although Lymm Golf Club opened in 1907, the history goes back before then, and is closely tied up with the building of the Manchester Ship Canal and the opening of the railway through Lymm.
The Manchester Ship Canal Company owned the land on either side of the present course of the canal and used part of this for depositing the spoil from the digging of the waterway. This accounts for the elevated land which houses holes 3 to 10. The construction of the canal also involved diverting the course of the River Mersey by building a short canal called Butchersfield to join two parts of the river together to the north of the land fill site across from the 6th green. Previously, the river had flowed behind the sixth green, alongside the ninth hole and in front of the clubhouse. It had then meandered round the practice ground, along the 11th fairway and in front of the 12th tee to eventually pass behind the 5th green where part of it can be seen to this day. The Ship Canal was opened in 1894.
The coming of the railway through Lymm opened up the village to Manchester businessmen who could commute each day and yet be able to live in a pleasant country village. One of these was Mr Alfred Watkin who lived at Dane Bank House. Morning conversations took place between these businessmen on the train and the idea of a golf club was formulated. Mr Watkin worked for the Ship Canal Company and in fact later became its Chairman. No doubt he was influential in the spoil heap being made available for construction of a nine-hole golf course. Mr Watkin was the first President of the club and, of course, has given his name to one of the major club competitions The Watkin Cup.
The first captain was Mr Boumphrey who lived at another large Lymm house Baycliffe, on the shores of Lymm Dam. It is very probable that virtually the entire early membership comprised of people of this sort. Very few ordinary people could play golf in those days. The course continued as 9 holes with a clubhouse where the present greenstaff sheds are now, until the early seventies, when, as a result of a freak accident on the level crossing to a farmer, the club was able to purchase the lower land and extend the course to 18 holes.
from John’s book “The First 100 Years at Lymm Golf Club”, copies available from the Club’s Office.
Reporter: Paul Foster
Another thoroughly miserable day, with heavy conditions testing both patience and perseverance. A slightly better day though than the previous two Fridays. A number of the more intelligent players wisely decided to remove their names from the play list, opting for warmth and comfort over a battle with the elements. For those who did tee up, play was slow and extremely hard work. The saturated fairways offered little run, and scoring reflected the tough conditions. Just five players from the field managed to score under par, a commendable effort given the circumstances. All in all, a day to forget, as far as I’m concerned. Let’s hope for better weather – and better golf – next time.
Competitors on the day – a new low of 29, 16 from the 1st division and 13 from the 2nd division.
Two 2s scored today, Koos Alders and Dave Meir.
Two incorrect handicaps entered from the 1st division, and one from the 2nd division.
Please check your seniors handicap (see link below).
| Winner | Koos Alders | 26 points (CPO) |
| Runner up | Steve Gosling | 26 points |
| 3rd place | Paddy Moran | 24 points (CPO) |
| Winner | Steve Bird | 25 points (CPO) |
| Runner up | Paul Keenan | 25 points (CPO) |
| 3rd place | Peter Willson | 25 points |
The winter league tables are starting to take shape now we have five rounds entered. Steve Gosling leads the 1st division followed by Mike Pigott, John White and Paddy Moran. Mervyn Roberts leads the 2nd division, followed by Paul Keenan, Bob Ellison and Alan Ranscombe. Game on….
Reporter: Steve Bird
Today’s weather word is “gloopy”, which means ‘semi fluid in consistency’ i.e. muddy. It can also mean ‘overly sentimental’, a term with which I’m sure our happy band are familiar with, particularly after one too many.
Ten holes open with a temporary green on hole 7. Sixteen players today with two teams of four, two of three and one of two.
The winners were Pete Broady, John Mather and Steve Bird with an average, bang on par, score of 20. Steve top scored for the day with 22.
Runners up were Steve Gosling, Steve Rowley, Tony Dixon and Ken Pearce with an average of 18.5.
Answer 3 is correct. See Definition of Lost. A ball does not become lost as a result of the player declaring it to be lost. A ball is lost only when it has not been found within three minutes after the player or their caddie (or partner) begin to search for it.
Newsletter editor: Ian Goodman
After searching for two minutes a player finds what they believe to be another player’s ball, so they continue to search for their ball. After the three-minute search time ends, it is then discovered that the ball the player found and believed to be another player’s ball was in fact the player’s ball. What is the ruling?
Answer is at the end of this newsletter
The 18th green at Lymm once sat on the ‘wrong side’ of the road. Before the major course redesign in the 1970s, golfers had to cross Whitbarrow Road mid‑round to play several holes. It was charming… and mildly hazardous. The modern layout was created specifically to bring all 18 holes onto the clubhouse side, giving Lymm its current, much safer flow.
Just a quick reminder to anyone interested in playing in the forthcoming seniors friendly matches. Matches are played in a friendly but competitive spirit at some great local courses; golf at its best (and cheapest). Please drop Grahame Brickell a note on IG if you would like to be included in the pool of players who take part in these matches. Details of the fixtures can be found on the Seniors Calendar.
You may have read in the Friday club newsletter that the Pro’s shop has recently been restocked by Steve and Fizz to include all types of gear to improve your game and ensure that you remain at the cutting edge of golfing fashion. Here is a link to the item in the newsletter. My thanks to Colin Hughes who kindly sent me the following email and photograph this week:
Hi Ian
One for the newsletter. I believe Steve is now stocking this latest rain gear due to the prevailing conditions. Regards. Colin.
Nothing to report as unfortunately the course was closed for the second Friday running (see photograph immediately above). Standings and handicaps remain as before.
Reporter: Steve Bird
At 8 a.m. in steady rain I drove the few hundred yards from my home to the club not expecting to see anyone waiting to play but, lo and behold, there were about half a dozen hardy souls, brollies up, about to start the 8 holes that were open for play.
Whilst my clubs were in the car I was struggling to summon up the enthusiasm to get muddy and wet and justify this to Mrs B. So, I ducked (geddit?) out and returned to the warmth of home.
I guess I’m just a soft southerner and it’s right what they say about those tough guys ‘oop north’, but today I just wasn’t up for it – along with many others I hasten to add.
So, I have to apologise and say that I don’t know whether or not there was a competition but if there was, congratulations to everyone who took part just for turning up!
Answer 2 is correct. See Rule 18.2a. The player’s ball is lost because the three-minute search time has passed and they did not identify their ball in a reasonable time.
Newsletter editor: Ian Goodman
In a match, a player’s ball came to rest beside some steps attached to a boundary fence. The steps interfered with the player’s swing, so they took free relief before playing their next stroke. What is the ruling?
Answer is at the end of this newsletter
Author: The Editor
Most of us have crossed it more times than we can count, but the Thelwall Viaduct remains one of the North West’s great engineering landmarks. Opened in 1963 (northbound) and 1996 (southbound), it carries the M6 over the Manchester Ship Canal and River Mersey, linking Cheshire with Lancashire and forming one of the busiest stretches of motorway in the country.
Built originally for far lighter traffic than it handles today, the viaduct has become famous for its wind closures, bearing repairs, and the occasional epic queue that tests even the calmest driver’s patience. Despite that, it’s an impressive structure: over 4,400 feet long, with sweeping views across the Mersey Valley—if you’re lucky enough to be moving.
Quirky Facts
Here’s a link if you would like more information on the bridge. The photograph below is from an open day when the bridge was opened in 1963.
Reporter: Paul Foster
Friday’s golf conditions could have been best described as orthopedically unsound. A relentless combination of rain, wind, and a general murkiness that transformed the course into something resembling a hippopotamus spa, rather than a place to swing a club. The fairways I believe were fully saturated having finally accepted that drainage is more of a suggestion than a rule. Greens would have been technically present, though indistinguishable from the surrounding countryside and well struck putts would have moved at a lightning pace of approximately zero. Any ball landing anywhere would have plugged so deeply it probably would have had to apply for planning permission. In a rare display of mercy and common sense, thankfully the golf course was closed, saving golfers from sodden shoes, muddy socks, total despair and the need to explain to loved ones why their trousers weighed six kilos. All in all, an excellent day for not playing golf. No shots docked (damn!), no balls lost or drowned and no seniors gone missing in the pond-like bunkers.
In summary: Wind: ‘aggressive’. Rain: ‘unrelenting’. Visibility: ‘optional’. Course status: ‘wisely closed’. Golfers: ‘dry, smug and alive’.
We’ll regroup when the course returns to being grass instead of soup.
Reporter: Steve Bird
The weather greeting us this morning was described by one of my teammates as ‘benign’ and whilst I would normally relate this word to a harmless disease, it also can mean ‘gentle and kindly’ which is exactly how I would describe the 14 souls, comprising 2 teams of 4 and 2 teams of 3, taking part. The course had taken a battering at the end of last week and was still drying out although the upper land was, as always, in good condition.
The winning team with an average score of 25.5 were Messrs Chisnall, Lawless, Bocquet and Rowley with Kevin top scoring for the day with an impressive 29.
Runners up were Messrs Broady, Pickles, Mather and John Bramhall (not to be confused with Steve Bramall) with an average of 22.5.
Odds of a Hole-in-One: The average golfer has a 1 in 12,500 chance of hitting a hole-in-one. Coincidentally, exactly the same odds as getting a shot back on your handicap from our current handicap secretary.
Answer 2 is correct. See Definition of Boundary Object. Any gate, steps, bridge or similar construction used for getting over or through a boundary wall or fence are not part of the boundary object.
Newsletter editor: Ian Goodman
Your ball comes to rest in an area of temporary water in a bunker. You decide to take relief from the temporary water out of the bunker. Which of the following statements is correct? a) You cannot drop out of the bunker in any circumstances. b) You may drop a ball back-on-line out of the bunker without penalty. c) You may drop a ball back-on-the line out of the bunker for a penalty of one stroke.
Answer is at the end of this newsletter
Only one of the following statements about Duncan is correct. The other two are false. How well do you know your fellow senior?
1 In the sort of miscasting never seen in Hollywood, Duncan played Brutus in a school performance of ‘Julius Caesar ‘
2. Whilst Duncan’s Company was working at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, Duncan was introduced to the Prince of Wales (now King Charles)
3. Duncan and his wife Jan once had dinner with Luciano Pavarotti
Answer below
Author: The Editor
After playing golf and adjourning to the bar last Friday, I was approached by Paul Collins. Paul mentioned to me that he was quite missing the abuse that he used to receive, on a more or less weekly basis, from the previous editor in this newsletter. In response to his request, should any of you become aware of any information which would further degrade Paul’s already battered reputation, then please feel free to email the details through to me at ianrgoodman@outlook.com. I will gladly post any information received to support Paul’s request for more visibility in the Senior Section.
Reporter: Paul Foster
A grey, cold and damp day greeted the golfers, with testing conditions making scoring difficult throughout the field. The course played long and heavy, and opportunities were few and far between. Only one 2 was recorded, underlining how tough conditions were. Unfortunately, 4 cards were handed in with incorrect handicaps, and one card with no name on it…took me a while Mr Hughes! A reminder to all players to please check cards carefully before submission ensuring name, seniors handicap and gross score are completed correctly. Round of the day goes to Mike Pigott, an almost perfect round, Mike bogeyed the first, then proceeded to par the remaining eleven holes. A super round from Ken Pearce, who didn’t miss a fairway all day, and a very warm welcome to the top three podium for Les ‘c’mon you reds’ Williams. Also observed today, a lesson in bunker play from Paul Keenan who ‘sand saved’ three holes. Once again Edgar & Allan Crow were nowhere to be seen at the 10th green. We will close this issue now with our feathered friends, as it looks likely they have flown to fairways new and given up on pilfering treats from seniors’ bags.
Competitors on the day – 39, 23 from the 1st division and 16 from the 2nd division.
Just one 2 scored today, Alister Cook at the 9th.
| Winner | Alister Cook | 28 points |
| Runner up | John White | 27 points |
| 3rd place | Steve Gosling | 26 points (CPO) |
| Winner | Ken Pearce | 28 points |
| Runner up | Mervyn Roberts | 27 points |
| 3rd place | Les Williams | 26 points (CPO) |
Reporter: Steve Bird
We were greeted with drizzle which was not forecast, so umbrellas were at the ready. But the brollies were not required and very soon after, the weather settled down leaving us with a cloudy but pleasant morning.
A good turnout of 19 players comprising six teams. The winners were Steve Bird, Paul Foster, Trevor Williamson and Tony ‘hot putter’ Lambert with an average score of 25.5.
Runners up were Steve Rowley (who top scored for the day with 29 points), John White and Charlie Hill with an average score of 24.
Point of admin – At present we have about 15 to 20 Happy Monday regulars with many additional ‘as and when’ players who just wish to play the odd game. In future, I will roster in groups of three and can I ask any ‘as and when’ players to add themselves in as no. 4 in any group.
Answer c is correct. You may drop a ball back-on-line outside the bunker but this would be for a cost of one penalty stroke. You could also drop a ball in the bunker, no nearer the hole, without penalty. See Rules on Relief from Abnormal Course Conditions (Including Immovable Obstructions).
Answer 3 is correct. Duncan and Jan did indeed have dinner with the great Luciano Pavarotti after he performed at a gala concert at the Manchester Arena in the late nineties.
Newsletter editor: Ian Goodman
I have reformatted and resent this week’s newsletter. This should make it easier to read for those subscribers who view the newsletter on their mobile phones.
In stroke play a player removes an out of bounds stake which interferes with their swing. What is the ruling?
a) There is no penalty. b) The player gets two penalty strokes unless they replace the stake to eliminate any improvement and restore the original conditions. c) The player gets two penalty strokes and cannot avoid the penalty even if they replace the stake.
Answer is at the end of this newsletter
Can you find the Phil fact? One of the following statements is true, the other two are false.
Answer below
Reporter: Paul Foster
A sharp winter chill greeted the field, but everyone arrived well wrapped and ready, layers zipped up, silly woolly hats pulled down low, and hands warmed in-between shots. Despite the cold, spirits stayed high and the course played beautifully, the crisp air making every strike feel extra satisfying. Edgar & Allan crow were nowhere to be seen, obviously a bit parky for the likes of our feathered friends, but not for our hardy seniors. Another bumper turnout of 43 players to brave the course. The outstanding score of the day, a quite extraordinary 32 points (8 under par) for Barrie Simpson. The moment of the day belonged to Martin Franks, who produced a superb hole-in-one. Sadly (and frustratingly), it came on a hole not included in the competition (the 13th), denying him official glory – but not the admiration of the seniors. It was still a shot to remember in an otherwise tough, cold-weather round. A winter’s day on the course, made memorable by one perfect swing. Round of the day goes to Mark Pickles, who finished 1 over par, including 3 birdies.
Competitors on the day – 43, 24 from the 1st division and 19 from the 2nd division.
Three 2s scored again today, Steve Bramall, Steve Gosling and Mike Bennett.
Eight cards were handed in with an incorrect handicap entered. Please check your up-to-date seniors handicap using the link below or from the banner on the senior’s website.
| Winner | Dave Meir | 27 points |
| Runner up | Mark Pickles | 26 points |
| 3rd place | Ian Goodman | 25 points (CPO) |
| Winner | Barrie Simpson | 32 points |
| Runner up | John Hayes | 27 points |
| 3rd place | Colin Hughes | 26 points (CPO) |
Reporter: Steve Bird
A cloudy morning with a temperature of 5 degrees greeted us along with a steady cold easterly breeze. On the plus side the course was relatively dry with 13 holes playable and no temporary greens.
Three teams of four took part with the winners Messrs Gosling, Barlow, Dixon and Lambert on an average score of 25.5.
Joint runners up with an average of 23 were Messrs Broady, Willson, White and Hill along with the team of Bird, Chisnall, Bramall and Pearce.
Answer b is correct. See Definition of Boundary Object Rule 8.1a and Rule 8.1c. A boundary object cannot be moved to improve the conditions affecting the stroke. However, the player can avoid the penalty by replacing the stake to eliminate any improvement and restore the original conditions.
Answer 2 is correct. Phil has had friendly chats with both the Iron Lady and Boris Johnson. Phil will be happy to provide more detail when you next see him in the clubhouse or out on the course.
Newsletter editor: Ian Goodman
A player makes a practice swing and accidentally moves their ball on the fairway with the club. What is the ruling? a) There is no penalty, but the player must replace the ball. b) The player gets one penalty stroke and must replace the ball. c) There is no penalty, but the practice swing counts as a stroke and the ball must be played as it lies.
Answer is at the end of this newsletter
So, how much do you know about our Dutch friend Koos? One of the following statements is true, the other two are false.
Answer below
As you may know the Seniors Section regularly plays friendly home and away matches against other local clubs in the summer months. Can you please let Grahame Brickell know on IG if you are interested in playing in these matches. It’s a great (and cheap) way to play at other quality golf clubs and to meet fellow seniors. The only expectations are that you will buy a club shirt from the pro’s shop to wear on match days and that you will play home as well as away games. Selection is by rotation and you can of course decline an invitation to play. Please have a word with Grahame if you need further information.
And you thought the 12th gets a bit boggy when it rains! Please click on this link to check out this BBC news item. Dave Craggs (using the alias Craig Finniss for some reason) has been spotted whilst on holiday!
Reporter: Paul Foster
Winter sunshine sets the scene for a lively 12-hole competition. Golfers were treated to a super bright winter’s day as a bumper field turned out for the 2nd round of the Winter League. Clear skies and crisp conditions made for an enjoyable round, with the course looking particularly inviting despite the winter chill. Pace of play was generally good, although a few competitors were clearly enjoying themselves so much that they became momentarily confused about how many holes they should play in a 12-hole competition, and sneakily played an extra hole. Sadly for them I spotted their Brucie bonus hole which didn’t count towards the final scores, but they did provide a few smiles and plenty of post-round banter. Adding to the entertainment, whilst John White’s attention was firmly on the 10th green, two feathered opportunists (Edger & Allan Crow with a sharp eye for an unattended bag) launched a well-coordinated raid on John’s golf bag. Clearly convinced there was food inside, and absolutely unconcerned about etiquette, one crow acted as lookout while his partner went straight for the zip. Although no snacks were officially confirmed missing, the incident caused plenty of mirth and served as a timely reminder to guard your sandwiches as carefully as your card. Edgar & Allan were later spotted perching nearby, calmly waiting for the next 4-ball to arrive. All in all, a cracking winter’s outing, proving once again that sunshine, good company, and a little selective interpretation of the rules make for a memorable day at the course.
Competitors on the day – 41, 23 from the 1st division and 18 from the 2nd division.
Three 2s scored today, Mark Lyons, Martin Franks & Barry Smith.
Round of the day goes to Mike Pigott, who finished 2 over par.
| Winner | Paul Foster | 29 points |
| Runner up | Steve Barlow | 27 points |
| 3rd place | Peter White | 26 points on a CPO |
| Winner | Alan Copeland | 25 points on a CPO |
| Runner up | Mervyn Roberts | 25 points |
| 3rd place | Paul Keenan | 24 points on a CPO |
Reporter: Peter Willson
Another dank, chilly and foggy start to the day, however the fog dispersed slowly and it turned out to be reasonable day for golf!
4 teams with 12 players.
Winners – Mike Bennett and Colin Crail (on his 1st outing of the season) – 27 points per player.
Second – 2 teams – Tony Dixon and Charlie Hill plus Steve Barlow, Kevin Bocquet, Ian Goodman and Peter Willson – both teams had 25.5 per player.
High Score: 28 points – 2 players – Colin Crail and Steve Gosling.
Answer b. The player gets one penalty stroke and must replace the ball. See Rule 9.4b and Definition of Stroke. If a player causes their ball to move they get one penalty stroke and the ball must be replaced. As there was no intention to strike the ball, the practice swing does not count as a stroke.
Answer 2 is correct. Koos (age 3) is pictured with his mother in the tulip fields that surrounded the house where he grew up. Koos’s father was a bulb grower. Koos didn’t take up golf until 2004, and he wasn’t allowed to vote in the Brexit referendum.
Newsletter editor: Ian Goodman
Lymm Golf Club Senior Section 