A record 78 players enjoyed Spalding RFC’s annual Golf Day at Spalding Golf Club – and raised £1,345 for the club’s coffers.
Held amid glorious conditions at the Surfleet course, the day started with the traditional Presidents’ putting competition, run by Tim Burleton, which was won by Shaun Gibson with three out of ten putts sunk.
As the traditional action got under way, surrounding the putting green and the first tee was a superb display of machinery and tractors provided by Pecks, the main sponsors.
Playing a pairs betterball format, the competition got under way just before noon, with starter Bob Wishart welcoming the golfers on the first tee. First to drive off was Neil Wilkinson, with the course in superb condition – ensuring it would be a high scoring afternoon.
A very welcome break was the excellent refreshments and home-baked cakes at the Half Way House, provided and manned by Carol Beba, Tina Burleton and Sue Jullien.
Having feasted in the shade, the golfers continued their day on the back nine.
With more than two thirds of the field coming in with scores over 40 points it was going to take some remarkable scoring to win the day.
In the end, the leading pairs score – and winners of the Brian Saville Cup – were Matt Hempsall and Tom Handley with a total of 55 points, while the winning mixed pairs, with a score of 50 points, were Claire Rylott and Pete Coupland.
Runners-up, also with a score of 50 points, were Phil King and Gavin Lewis.
The Brian Saville Cup was presented by Club President George Sly, accompanied by event organiser Peter Jullien.
