Finally, the Seniors Section were on the wrong end of the weather for the thirteenth playing of the Brian Keyte Trophy (formerly the Grandfathers’ Trophy) on Wednesday 16th October.
Heavy rain overnight and over previous days prevented two-seater buggies from being allowed on the course. This, plus a couple of “injuries,” meant that of the original 30 entrants, 26 actually teed up in dull, damp conditions with a light rain forecast.
Despite the weather, there was plenty of enthusiasm on the first tee.
Seamus McKearney, Rob Speake, and Les Hall were among the keen early starters.
As usual, there were plenty of good scores – no doubt helped by the excellent greens – and in a very tight finish, with the top 9 separated by only 3 points, Brian Howe prevailed to claim the trophy with 35 points.
The next three places, all with 34 points, were decided on countback, with Chris Robinson just edging ahead of Paul Burrows and Mike Edwards.
According to tradition, the trophy and prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, Best
Front 9, Best Back 9, Best Par 5’s, and Best Par 3’s will be presented at the Seniors AGM and Lunch in January.
So concludes the 2024 Series of Six Seniors Competitions, which started in April. Based on the feedback, I think the Series has been enjoyable and successful.
In total, 44 Seniors played in at least one competition, six played in all six, nine missed just one over the seven months, and each competition had new winners.
All season, we have had excellent course conditions thanks to Gareth and his hard-working staff, fine food from Andy and Laura, and friendly, helpful service from Mel and all the bar staff.
Also, I thank Dave ‘Woody’ Woodward for MC and comedic duties and John ‘Charlie’ Charlton for designing and printing the menus.
Finally, I would like to thank all in the pro shop, but particularly Paul, for essential help and advice pre- and post-competition, which enabled smooth running on the day and rapid publication of results.
If you have comments or suggestions for improvement in 2025, please contact me (Kevin McMahon) directly. Thank you.
