Visiting players were anxious to see how the Course was holding up since being re-opened. The weather was kind after some recent Club games had been spoiled by cold winds. As it turned out, the weather was near perfect, and the threat of a possible shower didn’t eventuate.

The field contained 81 players (62 men and 19 ladies), an excellent field considering the unknown state of the Course. It came as a surprise that all 20 Hire Buggies were booked out and two players had to cancel out as a result. Two new players and two returning players were included in that number.

With the new owners only taking over at the beginning of July and still operating with the very limited number of Interim Ground Staff maintaining it, the Course was in reasonable condition. The Preferred Lie and the GUR on many Bunkers was necessary and assisted in the overall enjoyment of the return to the Course. The Greens were not at the good standard of recent weeks, as coring and the effects of the recent cold spells have taken their toll.

It was a pleasure to have access to the Clubhouse on arrival’ with the urn boiling and plenty of biscuits. The new Caterers went along with the Lunch Order Sheet system, and it worked well on an honour system of payment. Both choices of meal were very well received.

With high Course Slope ratings for all Divisions, most played off increased Handicaps. Joy Wilson made the most of her adjusted Handicap to record a well-played 43 points, the best of the day. Arthur Ridel with 41 points and Richard Winrow with 40 points were the other winners. A good choice of Pin Shots today Les as there wasn’t a Skinner. Eddie and Mary McCaffrey celebrated their return with wins in the Lucky Numbers.

Photos.

1. Back at Ipswich again. How many Tee shots did you put in the middle, Col.

2. Not bad Eddie. You must have had some coaching in Ireland.

3. Great putt Ken, and yes, it did drop.

4. Plenty to discuss today after the first day back for most.

The next game will be at Sandy Gallop on Monday 28th July. The following game is the Invitation 4 Ball Medley at Boonah on Monday 4th August. There are limited numbers for this competition because of the participation of Boonah players. On Monday 18th August, the 1st Round of our 2014 Championships will be played at Rosewood.