Handsworth Golf Club welcomed players from near and far for our Winter Texas Scramble Open, a competition that perfectly captured the spirit of winter golf. While the weather was far from inviting, with dull skies, light rain and wet, heavy conditions underfoot, the day proved that good golf – and good humour – can shine through even in challenging circumstances.
Despite the testing conditions, the course was presented in the best shape possible for the time of year and played every bit the winter examination players expected. Underfoot conditions were understandably soft, demanding patience, careful shot selection and strong teamwork throughout the round. Credit must go to all competitors for embracing the challenge and producing some excellent scores.
We were delighted to welcome a healthy number of visiting teams, adding to the friendly and competitive atmosphere of the day. That said, it was largely Handsworth members who made themselves at home on the leaderboard, filling the top four places and showing just how well local knowledge can pay dividends in winter conditions.
A special mention must go to the halfway house, where the leek and potato soup proved to be a clear highlight of the day. Judging by the impressive collection of empty soup cups in the bin near the 11th tee, it was very well received and provided much-needed warmth and energy as players headed into the closing stretch of their rounds.
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to our Club Captain (Mark Fletcher) for sponsoring the two nearest the pin contests, Craig, our Competitions Director, the catering staff, and the Professional Shop team, who worked hard behind the scenes to ensure the event ran smoothly. From organisation and scoring to supporting players on the day, their efforts played a key role in making the Winter Texas Scramble Open such a successful and enjoyable competition.
Back at the clubhouse, the catering team remained busy throughout the afternoon as many of the competitors gathered for post-round refreshments and the prize presentation. Our thanks go to the catering staff for their hard work and excellent service, helping to round off the day in a welcoming and sociable fashion.
Prize Winners
The full results of the Winter Texas Scramble Open were as follows:
Nearest the pin
6th Hole: Ian Sadler | 17th Hole: Clive Coley
Team Results
First Place
Matt McKeon (Handsworth GC), Scott Slade (Aston Wood), Will Bailey (Moor Hall), Sam Rickwood (Moor Hall) Nett Score: 51.875
Second Place
Carl Garr, Sam Jones/Garr, Rhys Silver, Scott Silver (all Handsworth GC) Nett Score: 53.75
Third Place
Dan Higgs, Tony Bryan, Luke Bryan, Joel Bryan, (all Handsworth GC) Nett Score: 53.875
Fourth Place
Trevor Bennett (Handsworth GC), Lee Powell (Fulford Heath), Darren Price (Kings Norton), Dudley Palmer (Kings Norton)
Nett Score: 54.125
Congratulations to all our prize winners, and thank you to everyone who took part, particularly those who travelled to join us. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps make our Open competitions such enjoyable events.
We hope to welcome many of you back to Handsworth Golf Club very soon, with our next Open taking place on 13 March 2026 – the Cheltenham Festival Pairs Competition. We look forward to seeing you then, hopefully with a little less rain and some early signs of spring.
