What a relief to get a run on the Gatton Bypass and the Range without any hinderance from roadworks, but by far the greatest relief was the knowledge that the rain associated with the cyclone had only minimal effect on the Middle Ridge Course and that Buggies were able to be used. The day was very pleasant with the temperature reaching about 28 degrees. The slight breeze and the shade from the occasional cloud cover somewhat dampened the effects of quite a high humidity.
The field was 78 (66 Men and 12 Ladies) and once again this was limited by the availability of sufficient Pro Shop buggies. Eleven players turned up for their first game this year and one of those was a new member.
Players were expecting the condition of the Course to far better than that experienced last year, particularly in the light of the recent rain. The lush grass growth certainly reduced the length of shots, and on most Fairways there was no need for Preferred Lies. The Greens had shown some improvement on their condition last year but the Club Committee must almost be at the end of their tether wondering how much longer the dead patches will remain on them. In particular, the eleventh Green will almost have to be re-laid to overcome its problems.
The urn was boiling on our arrival and the Tea and Coffee was very much appreciated, so much so that a few of the later arrivals missed out. This is always a possibility at Courses outside our District and steps will be taken to avoid this happening in future. The light lunch choice was well received, and service was speedy with minimal waits to be served.
There was no score in the 40’s this year and both Men’s Divisions were won on Countback with 39 points. Good luck Doug and Allan. Ann Hughes won the ladies trophy by playing to her handicap and in the process won the Pin Shot on the 18th, just missing a Hole in One but returning the closest measurement of the day, 37cm.
Photos.
1. Will all the Greens out there be like this one today?
2. A stroke like this one probably didn’t need Charles’s trained eye to see where it finished.
3. A low runner was the only option for Wayne from this position after a wayward shot.
4. The Seventh is such a pretty hole, but it does collect a few too many balls the days we play here.
5. Ann won the Ladies event, and this is the best photo I took of her. Can you see her?
The next game is an 8.30am Shotgun start at Laidley on 2nd March. The Timesheet for this game is now available at Rosewood.
