Tollerton Golf Society

Frame By 2, As Harris Opens An Advantage

2011-08-11T01:49:00.000-07:00

With Beeston and Rushcliffe falling through it was a second time return to Stanton. Harris nearly missed the tee off, roaring up the drive in full paramedic gear with Frame adamant he should be a non starter for being late - now, now!

With the wind whistling and dark clouds circling it was a youthful 4 who opened up. In stetsons and ponchos, Daft and Frame decided to take on Rotton and Chubb to spice it up a little.

Rotton, fresh from his maiden victory, started scoring on the 3rd keen to not rile those who believed his handicap mark should be nearer the 12 (or 14) area!

Daft was once again unable to find his 2010 levels instead puting plan B in to action - keep below 30, get the handicap up to 12, win again next year, but beat Rotton and Chubb in the process.

Frame was in no mood to be messing about and hit 5, 3 pointers on the way to an impressive 20 point opening 9 total - three on the trot through 6, 7 and 8 importantly took the match from 2 down to all square.

Chubb, fresh from honeymooning in Borneo, including a game of golf - good man, set your stall out early, couldn't find his rhythm, only notching 2 pars. However, both were for the win, including one up the 9th, which saw the pair 1 up at the turn.

With only Frame setting his sights on a big score it came down to a tense matchplay situation. Back to back hole wins saw Rotton and Chubb go 2 up with 5 to play. Daft and Frame saddled up their trusty steeds and cantered straight back winning 3 of the next 4 holes, to stand on the 18th 1 up. Daft played the hole of his evening to birdie the 18th (and getting a sixth of his total points - answers on a postcard), in to the gale and close the match out.

Frame kept his composure amongst the matchplay to head home the group by a massive 9 points and keep his title hopes very much alive.

Tuckwell, Hoenigmann and Phoenix were the second group out. Tuckwell was fortunate to remain in bounds on the first and then sandwiched a birdie in between 2 doubles as trees and missed putts were the order of the front 9.

Hoenigmann duly had his one for the car park before starting properly on the second. With the drives 'tinging' sweetly off the middle the momentum built and 11 points over the closing 4 holes meant a fine return.

Phoenix was to endure 7 holes of completely bliss. Sublime golf led to a sumptious 17 points and 2 over par before some tree trouble started to cause the pressure gauge to slide alarmingly towards danger. The warning signs were there after 15 continuous left handed swipes beneath a conifer.

Phoenix (19) holding a 2 point lead from Hoenigmann (17) with Tuckwell (15) a further 2 points adrift.

The 'Pheonixometer' went off the charts on 13 after the approach to the green hurtled out of bounds, with the bag copping some pent up aggression.

A solitary par on 17, accounted for as many points as the previous 7 holes, after a huge one potato drive full of adrenalin.

Hoenigmann was in fine form keeping the ball in play with great distance. A thoroughly deserved par up the 18th concluded an excellent round of 35 points and back 9 of 18. Get yourself a pint sir!

Tuckwell started with a semi shank and feared the worst before rembering he was on home turf and then capitalised for the second time this year .A 2 under par final 8 holes was thanks mainly to some clutch putts. Bizarrely, an expletive followed as a 20 foot down hiller on the 18th that was drained. The realisation that a shot would be docked had just sunk in and pretty much ruling out any chances of competing (apart from round Stanton) for the next 3 years.

Horsburgh was joined by a fellow Tollerton parent, Marriot and Harris. Marriott, playing off 28, single handedly accounted for Horsburgh after accumulating 24 points over the front 9, having decided not to score on the 5th. Nearly driving the ditch on the first, then hitting the 4th green from 210 yards may have given you an indication Jay!

Horsburgh was clearly rattled and decided to enter the neatest card of the night competion which he won comprehensively. The only brief highlight on the front 9 was a chip and putt nett birdie on 4.

Harris was still in the car park for the opening 3 holes, but I don't suppose it matters if you can score 16 points in 5 other holes! 19 points was an excellent return but astonishingly 5 points adrift of Marriot.

Horsburgh slung the reigns on Marriot, to prevent the scoring hitting the 50 point barrier, while notching up 3 3 pointers of his own. After an initial flurry of nett birdies Harris hit the simmer button before a massive nett eagle for 4 points up the 18th and another great total but more importantly a shot docked!

The Stanton rearguard weren't used to much merriment in the bar and delayed their pool playing and carpet bowls untill the TGS contigent had had their fill!

Frame (38) scooped the pot and his second win of the year. Tuckwell (36:B9 21) ousted Harris (36:B9 17) into 3rd with debutant Marriot (36:B9 12) finishing a very creditable 4th. Hoenigmann (35) had his best round of the year and intelligently finished under handicappers eye.

Alectric

2011-08-11T00:19:00.000-07:00

Round 4 saw a short trip to Ruddington. Frame and Buttress were installed as joint favourites having just negotiated membership and acruing more than just a couple of sighters.

With Tuckwell running late through school duties (not for long!) Daft, Frame, Thacker and Buttress muscled onto the back 9 with the hordes gathering around the first. The tameable short par 5th 10th, tamed the illustrious quartet with only Buttress accumulating a big 3 pointer. This was to set the tone for his nine - 2 further 3 pointers enabling a tidy 19 points and setting the target.

Thacker went on a mini charge shooting one under through the mid section to match Framey's 15 point opening haul. Regular followers will be unsurprised that Frame's scoring was as follows: 0,0,1,3,0,3,2,3,3. Daft was consistent to the max, scoring on every hole, but an equal helping of 1 and 2 pointers did little to ignite a charge.

Six, 3 pointers between the fourball on the front 9 wasn't conducive to big scoring. Daft couldn't find his 2010 form and finished with an eye on getting a shot back. Thacker can be pleased with a solid 30 point return having not swung a club in anger for a significant period.

Buttress couldn't find the opening 9 consistency, the 3 pointers remained but 2 blobs and 2, 1 pointers meant a very steady 34 points.

Framey was disappointed with a below par 28 points, and had nearly thrown the towel in for the end of season silver jug. A quick recalculation saw that the card was short of not 1 but 4 points! - cheers Dafty, I'll mark my own card next time!

Rotton, Doc Brown, Pike and Harris also managed to sneak out on the back 9. Harris immediately alerting the handicap committee with a birdie, nett eagle, down 10, followed by nett birdie on 11 - 7 points through 2 holes, a dream start.

Brown matched the birdie for a tidy start and followed it up with a further brace of 3 pointers. Rotton indicated nothing of the stellar show that was to follow after 8 points through 6 holes as Pike peaked with an opening 3 points and determined to use the woods.

At the half way stage Harris (18) held a 2 point advantage over Brown (16) with Rotton (15) a point adrift.

Pike offered improvement and doubled his 3 point stakes but couldn't find the consistency off the tee to set up a charge. Meanwhile, Harris proved that he was human with 5 points through the opening 4 holes. This was to be a false dawn as 13 points in the remaining 5 holes posted another good total.

Well in the handicappers grasp, Brown produced a rock solid display of consistency despite not capitalising on the greens. 2 halves of 16 points and a gross 79 - a good evenings work.

Spurred by a nett birdie on his 9th hole, Rotton hit the turbo boosters and produced a faultless dispaly of golf which Pike in no way suggested that it contained any element of luck... Regardless, an immense 3 over par, gross 39 reaped a TGS season high 23 points - 17 points in 6 magic holes proving the catalyst and the clubhouse lead on 38 points.

Tuckwell, Horsburgh and Hoenigmann tried to muscle in on the 10th but were busted by a pair of irate lady members and duly stepped aside after pleading innocence! Tuckwell promised much with 8 points in 4 holes but then lost the plot completely, limping to the turn without much direction apart from an ugly pull hook.

Hoenigmann for once delivered on his opening hole after usually requiring 1 to warm up. A steady run was derailed by the sand, marginally more sand displacement could have been caused by 50 children with bucket and spade.

More high jinxed followed after a ball found a 'dry ditch' the shot was being contemplated before the surface broke and Michael disappeared shin deep - I think I'll take a drop! A 3 pointer up 9 tidied up the card.

Horsey was his usual mark of consistency but shocking didn't score on one hole, unbelievable. 2, 3 pointers redressed the balance for a comfortable 5 shot lead.

Hoenigmann upped his game after the turn although found an equal amount of sand, fortunately safety was recovered at the first time of asking. A steady 15 points and surely only a matter of time before the 100 is broken and a big score accumulated.

Tuckwell opened up with 8 points in the opening 4 holes again and narrowly missed an eagle on 2 after an excellent approach. This time a succession of pars followed in an attempt to reel Horsey in.

Horsey uncharacteristically stuttered after the turn with all touch and feel deserting him but showed his steely determination down the last as Tuckwell had drawn level. A cool nett birdie slamming the door on Tuckwell who crumbled with a bogey.

A sensational 10 holes from Rotton (38) saw him cruise to his maiden TGS victory with a 2 shot victory over the ever consistent Harris (36) Pre tournament favourite, Buttress (34), finished comfortably in the top 3 ahead of Horsburgh (32) Brown (32) and Frame (32)

Tuckwell Seals Home Win

2011-05-29T16:54:00.000-07:00

5 became 6 as Hoenigmann negotiated a shopping related trade to make the 3 o clock tee off at Stanton.

Harris, on seasons’ debut, was eager to get going, under strict instructions to be back for a dinner date at 7. With Daft and Frame as partners, it was left for the opening to trio to post the target.

Blustery wind, hard ground and a smattering of rain was likely to please the overseas Horsburgh, but only time would tell when the points were on the board.

Harris set the front 9 target of 19 points thanks to a rapier short game and a nice 4 pointer up 6, leaving Frame (14) and Daft (15) on simmer at the half way stage.

Daft, keen to get one over on Horsey, maintained a steady rhythm. A couple of 3 pointers on 14 and 16 allowing a tidy 18 point return – despite 1 point up 18 after being snookered an inch behind a tree.

Frame couldn’t find his Radcliffe timing and finesse so it was left to Harris to power home with a impressive 37 point total – finishing with a tidy par, for 4 points up the last.

Meadows still looked fresh and very debonair after 18 holes earlier in the day, whilst Tuckwell and Hoenigmann lurched straight from the car to the tee. Surprisingly this wasn’t conducive to good scoring – Tuckwell barely making the 1st fairway and racking up a miserly 5 points in the first 5 holes. Hoenigmann matched this, knocking one out of bounds n the 4th… whilst teeing off on the 3rd the lowlight.

Meadows was very steady with brand new Wilson irons in hand but more errant with the woods. Still 15 points at the turn set a platform. Tuckwell recovered finishing the last 4 holes with 11 point to lead by 1.

4 points on the 13th and 8 points over the closing 3 holes meant Hoenigmann finished tidily in the 30’s – with plenty left when the swing returns.

Meadows finished strongly with 18 points despite some tree trouble – the best nearly knee capping his playing partners on 13 after trying to thread a 260 yard approach which instead rocketed off at right angles.

It was left to Tuckwell who was on a birdie roll. A handful of 3 pointers, in a 1 under par back 9, resulted in a 22 point haul and 38 points overall to oust Harris from the top spot by 1.

Beers, crisps and a catch up was a fine way to finish.

Tuckwell (38) opened his account for the season and was immediately axed to 5 in the process. Harris (37) made the podium and was joined by Meadows (33:B3-7) who beat Daft (33:B3-6) on countback.

Frame by 1, in the Season Opener

2011-05-29T15:31:00.000-07:00

An all round bonus for the 2011 season opener, at Radcliffe. No rain, no-one on the course and a £20 twilight green fee. Tuckwell was met by the usual handicap inquisition from Frame, Horsburgh and Daft who all proclaimed unfair treatment, but were dismissed.

Tuckwell, Frame and Daft opened proceedings. Frame quickly reminding his playing partners of what to expect with a roller coaster of 3s and 0 pointers.

Tuckwell was scrappy, to be polite, thankful to be hitting the ball straight rather than at right angles. A couple of 3 pointers the highlight, a handful of 3 putts fuelled some frustration.

Daft was rock solid with an exhibition of fine tee shots and top draw approaches. 17 points at the turn establishing a 2 point lead over Frame.

Frame rather impressively hit 8 shots on the 10th but somehow finished with 3 points after finding his original tee shot and hitting a miracle approach. Tuckwell followed suit on 17, 2 blazing shanks off the tee appeared to be a lost cause but the initial shot had ricocheted onto the fairway, and an unlikely up and down was secured.

Daft rode his luck towards the climax of the round – a variety of errant drives were deflected back onto the fairway and a few worm burners were converted. The touch finally deserted on the penultimate holes, or maybe handicap protection, as a plus 36 pointer was downgraded to a solid 34.

Frame hit the afterburners, calling and delivering a fine repertoire of shots. The highlight summoning a raking draw to finish pin high beside the 18th green. 4 nett birdies and a nett eagle left Frame with a superb 22 point back 9 and the group spoils.

Jenkinson and Pike arrived straight from the office as Hall eased out of the car / mini-jet to join Horsburgh.

Horsburgh performed at his metronomic best for a blemish free opening 9 as Pike and Jenkinson tested their creative talents whilst finding some choice positions. 13 points in 4 holes left Hall dreaming of big things - 2 points on the other 5 deflating the bubble. Horsburgh by 1.

A nett birdie on 10 was as good as it got for Hall – although, there was plenty of positives to suggest big things for 2011. Pike couldn’t get his powerful guns to fire and was left to dream of what could have been.

Jenkinson provided the stellar golf on the way in. Some calypso shots and unerring accuracy resulting in 21 very points – as always Jenko was left reflecting what could have been .

Horsburgh, with his new found distance off the tee, was able to capitalise with his quality short game. A solitary point up the last ensuring that further alterations to the handicap were not applied!

So, the 3 handicap grumblers filled the top 3 positions to suggest that the axe had been wielded fairly. It would wield once more for Frame (36) who was to be victorious ahead of Horsburgh (35) and Daft (34). Jenkinson finishing strongly for a fine 33 points.

Double Delight for Daft

2011-05-29T14:06:00.001-07:00

The nearly man of the TGS Circuit finally got his hands on not one, but both of the seasons trophies.

Horsburgh and Tuckwell threatened to thwart Daft once again at the climax of the 2010 tour ,at Cotgrave Masters. With Daft's 6 point lead cut to one coming up the 18th, the champion elect fired the most important iron shot of his TGS career into the heart of the green, to finish with a 3 shot advantage.

More was to come as Daft then pipped Horsburgh in a high scoring season finale that saw him take the Annual Away Day Champion trophy, at Stanton-on-the Wolds.

6 years without a trophy then 2 come at once!

The Destiny of 2010

2010-09-07T11:45:00.000-07:00

With 2 Rounds to play, the destiny of the TGS 2010 Claret Mug has been blown wide open.

With 4 scores to count, rounds on the board could be crucial.

J. Horsburgh - 139 points
Rounds of 43 - 33 - 32 - 31. No stranger to the final day shake up and a definite rider for the final 2 fixtures. With the weakest score fairly solid there may be little chance to make huge advances on his current points score especially off his new mark of 13.

R. Daft - 133 points
Rounds of 42 - 37 - 27 - 27. Another usually in the final 4 but yet to land the covetted Claret Mug. Now in the handicappers grasp off a mark of 8, but a definite in the final 2 rounds should see his lowest scores surpassed.

S. Tuckwell - 126 points
Rounds of 35 - 34- 30 - 27. Always there or thereabouts, due to playing in every round! but unable to post the big score due to the low handicappers mark. Confident of beating the 27 and 30 point mark but unlikely to do so by 13 to equally Horsey's current lead.

A. Pike - 119 points
Rounds of: 38 - 30 - 26 - 25. The 'ironman' cannot be written off, with the capability to score big and has done previously at both Horsley and Cotgrave. Plenty of shots to play with and 2010 Tour winner at Cotgrave already.

Waiting in the Wings...

M. Hoenigmann - 104 points (3 rounds)
Rounds of 35 - 35 - 34. In poll position before Sunday, but with only a final appearance at the climax at Cotgrave a score will be needed. A man who thrives on pressure and a definite most improved, this is well with within the grasp although there is no room for error.

Something a little bit special required, with attendance not guaranteed...

J. Brown - 95 points - 3 rounds of 38 - 30 - 27

A. Rotton - 92 points - 3 rounds of 32 - 31 - 29

N. Thacker 89 points - 3 rounds of 34 - 28 - 27

R. Chubb - 88 points - 3 rounds of 35 - 28 - 25

M. Hefter - 88 points - 3 rounds of 32 - 30 - 26

S. Harris - 88 points - 3 rounds of 32 - 29 - 27

Jay Makes it a 3 Horse Race

2010-09-07T11:07:00.000-07:00

A first time visit to the surrounds of Oakmere Park saw a fivesome take full advantage of the low attendance, to post some large scores.

Tuckers and Meds hit the range an hour early keen to make sure the advantage was not lost and was joined by Daft. Horsey couldn't afford such liberties having hot-footed it from Chatsworth with caravan in tow before de-connecting and arriving straight on the tee.

Meds, Pike and Daft opened up with Meds straight into birdie-birdie-nett birdie form, despite being hit by Horsey's approach (2nd shot) to the first - and a par 5 nonetheless! Pike found no such fortune with difficulty on the baize attributing to a slow start.

Daft, determined not miss out, opened with 2 birdies in his first 4 holes to be sitting pretty. A high standard of consolidation meant a superb level par front 9 despite 2 balls lost - albeit from firing off the wrong tee and be reprimanded by a group of lady members - and 23 points.

Meadows kept in the hunt with a very respectable 20 points, whilst a final flurry left Pike 4 further back.

A further birdie nett eagle for Daft on 11 was backed up with 2 more nett birdies over the next 3 holes. 38 points after 16 led the decision to blow it and only be reduced 1 shot or go big and be cut 2. 3 points over the final 2 left Dafty on a very ominous 42 points yet single figures! Gross 77, 4 over par - you can't complain!

Meds opened with 6 points in the opening 2 holes after the turn and finished strongly after a mid 9 wobble for a handicap reducing 37 points. Pike started strongly, nearly getting back to level 2's, before finishing safely with a very respectable 30 points.

A 2 ball for Tuckers and Horsey was very relaxed, Horsey with his first outing since Cleeve Hill, in July, nearly opened with eagle after Meds' size 10's stopped an arrowed approach to the 1st. Birdie it was. It was nearly back to back as the birdie putt on 2 finished inches short. Further 3 points on 3 and 6 meant 17 points had already been accumulated. A couple of severe hills curtailed the scoring slightly but 21 points was very impressive. Tuckers started slopily, with 4 points after 3, mainly thanks to a lost ball, but parred in to finish 3 behind Horsey.

Tuckers once again paid the price with another errant drive and lost another ball on 11, but immediately responded firing into 2 feet, on 13, for a tap in birdie. A further birdie followed on 17, before a birdie effort on 18 narrowly missed, but with every cloud - 35 points and just below the radar!

Usually given some stick for his metronomic tap and run play, Horsey was finding some excellent distance, inspired by his recent gambling exploits, finding himself relishing the par 5s. Having negotiated 4 safely, 1 under par gross, there was one final one to navigate up 18. 3 immaculate shots, left himself 3 foot from the pin and smiles all round, until it was relayed that he had to sink that for the win. But with ball of steel he duly obliged to finish with a gross 81, 2 under for the par 5s - and a monstrous 43 points. This was all amongst the turmoil of finding his best white Pringle Knitwear in the bottom of the bag with the remnents of a 4 year old banana spread all over it.

Game on for the Final 2 Rounds

Horsley Lodge - 26th September - 1.30 tee off

Cotgrave Masters - 17th October - 1.00 tee off

Hot off the Press

2010-06-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

Chubb confesses...

'Also played at Breadsall Priory heathland course saturday- near death experience on the buggy- nearly rolled it over Avis Brown (Doc's mum) and Ants Mrs (Docs bro's fiance), after losing control in the wet. Rotton dived clear from the buggy as it careered widly down the slope. Span it about 3 times. Calamity Chubb strikes again!'

Chubb 1/6/10

Hepburn's Latest Accessory...

2010-06-01T07:27:00.000-07:00

Costa Del Cotgrave

2010-06-01T07:03:00.000-07:00

While Framey, Dafty and 15 other hardy Keyworth members headed to Ibiza Town for the formers stag (it's all very quiet boys, you've been back a week, there must have been some incidents...) Tuckers, Vinny and Duffin hit Cotgrave Masters in 80 degree Mediterannean heat.

Plenty of cream was applied, Tuckers - factor 25, Duffin - 15, Vin - moisturiser (an oversight) to avoid the magma sun, having already been burnt by the green fee.

The generous, stroke 6, 437 yard par 5 (bemuses me every time) yielded bumper points with Tuckers holing out for eagle (5pts) Vin - par (4pts) and Duffin - par (3pts)

Then, to truly add to the continental flavour, the drinks cart appeared. A round of cokes were about to be shouted before ice cold lagers were spied and consumed whilst walking down the fairway - nice.

Vin kept applying the pressure, and not the lotion, in a fine 22 point opening 9, with brother Tucker 3 points behind and Duffin 3 further adrift.

A half way beer restocking was just the tonic in the early afternoon heat, swaggering through the car park in shorts - great

2 points in 4 holes cost Duffin but 13 in the final 5 gave hope for the next days visit to Lingdale (if a Saturday night wipeout could be avoided) Tuckers limped home with 1 point in the last 3. The highlight confidently telling his playing partners that the island 16th was all about 'touch and feel' and to 'watch and learn' before chunking it abysmally 20 foot into the water! - nice.

Vin had ammased 39 points with the final two holes to negotiate and two shots on both. Having found water off the tee, the recovery play was excellent, unfortunately a rare (4) putting blip prevented further addition to the score. 3 points up the last meant a career best 42 points. The red face wasn't through embarassment...

Anyone for Bondhay?

2010-05-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

TGS TOP 10 HARDEST COURSES (stableford)

1. Bondhay '09 - 24.2

2. Bondhay '07 - 25.9

3. Bondhay '08 - 26.4

4. Horsley '07 - 26.4

5. Bondhay '06 - 26.7

6. Radcliffe '07 - 26.8

7. Radcliffe '06 - 27.2

8. Norwood '05 - 28.1

9. Rufford '09 - 28.1

10. Ruddington '09 - 28.2

Frame and Ladd - 2 who have vowed to never return to the sandfilled monster!

Brown Victorious Amidst Handicap Protection

2010-05-03T09:50:00.000-07:00

TGS Season 6, yes 6! Opened its doors at a sunny Stanton-on-the-Wolds met by Tuckwell in a very striking cerise number. Thacker and Ball, Ruddington partners in crime, started very much where they had left off some 12 hours earlier – in the bar.

A bit of a merry-go-round saw A.T. withdraw, back prevention, after 14 days straight and a 5 day golf trip to follow. Dessaur fell foul of alcohol poisoning while Hall was finalising the last details of a big money transfer back to Bridgford.

Having exchanged the customary pleasantries in the Pro-shop and dealing with a few handicap chunterings McLoughlin immediately had some explaining to do – driving the first. Phoenix had the wire wool on the irons midweek but scrubbed off a bit too much accuracy in the early stages before a nice net eagle up 6 lowered the pressure gauge.

Ever steady Bremner, was the mark of consistency any blip instantly followed by a 3 pointer. While Daft, still smarting off his mark of 10, produced a mixed bag. McLoughlin finished the front 9 firmly in charge, birdie, par, par, birdie – 2 under, 14 points – a total of 22 – with a blob. No you can’t be off more than 8.

With thoughts of a potentially hazardous first round handicap axe, the back 9 scores dipped below the front 9 highs, with only 2 nett birdies registered between the group in the first 7 holes. In danger of the round petering out and squandering the chance of a solid opening, Bremner, inspired by yesterdays Canaries promotion party, finished 17 and 18 with 6 points. McLouglin finished nett birdie. Daft saved the best ‘til last with birdie and 4 points.

A dangerous looking quartet consisting of reigning champion, Chubb. 2010 early favourite, Doc Brown, the returning Rotton - and 2008 Champion, Meadows set off full of promise. Although, Meadows was fighting through the pain barrier after a late night car park altercation left some bruised ribs but no clear details on the hows and whys!

A cagey start from the usual free scoring Chubb was merely a lull, as he became only the six man on the TGS circuit to register a 5 pointer. A drive, 5 iron, 8 footer – accomplishing the feat on the 469 yard Par 5 9th - Eagle with a shot. Meadows’ nett eagle insignificant!

Rotton, under the watchful eye of Meadows, was careful not to score too freely with the 18 handicap considered favourable. Four front 9 3 pointers were balanced with 3 1’s and a blob. It was left to the Doc to turn the screw; a rare 3 putt on the first was the only blemish in a one over gross front 9.

The pain got the better of Meds, who having easily surpassed the TGS all time low, opted out of the majority of the back 9 – not being drawn into a big hitting contest and careful not to let Rotton escape his attention. Rotton hit the coolers after 24 points after 12 holes – fearing the promised 5 shot handicap cull.

Likewise Chubb, who with 33 points through 16 must have been eying up 40 points, with 2 tameable par 5s to finish. A tepid, yet ideal finish, assured the 6 handicap would not be reduced! Richard – are you sure you played them to your full potential…

Brown, more than happy off his low single figure mark, consolidated on his excellent front 9 to shoot a top draw 4 over, gross 77 - and with it a handsome 38 points.

Tuckwell, Thacker, Ball and Radford set off on the back 9, with Thacker regretting the final pint / chaser.

Not one to hang about, Ball played some hit and run with great effect, practice swings deemed a waste of energy. Tuckwell was out of sorts a trio of 3 pointers only masking some early season rustiness.

Can we go yet? The bar's closing!

Thacker battling some inner turmoil tried every available cure but couldn’t shake an increasingly pounding headache. An approach to a foot on 13 briefly lifting the gloom. Radford, having wintered well on the Wii, hit some nice shots but couldn’t capitalise on the greens.

Ball appeared to be working on, a not conducive to good scoring formula of:
Shots to green = number of putts taken.
Eye for the cup not as sharp as the eye for goal!

Although the spread went belly up on 17, with those who went high, as a snaking 25 footer found the back of the cup for birdie and a single putt – yes single putt!

Thacker was 2 ahead of the group ready to tackle the shorter front 9. 2 fantastic shanks coupled with a drilling headache left the resident pro with only one choice: Get the driver out and smash it as close to the green as possible. This yielded 3 birdies in 3 holes but could only mask the growing fatigue.

Tuckers 30 yard pitch to the 8th, which found the sand, 6 foot in front of him, summed up proceedings, so it was left to Ball and Radford to fly the flag. A cracking start and finish to the 9 saw Radford amass a healthy 20 points, 3 shy of last years opening effort, but excellent nonetheless.

Calypso time for Ball, who was seeing it like a football and giving his single figure partners a lesson in how to strike it. Four 3 pointers on the homeward stretch not bad for the annual outing!

Are we nearly there yet...

Horsburgh Jnr, Hefter, Hoenee and step-dad, Riddell, made up the final 4, starting on the front 9. Hefter had a tale two nines – securing the worst opening and best back of the day. Always finish in style Stats, a bit of class. You may look back on this when you’re in poll position coming down the Masters stretch in October!

Horsey, fresh from a 1 hole Friday victory, over Phoenix started with a tidy nett birdie, before a wobble, then recovery. Riddell was all about the 2s determined to get one over on Michael after being defeated in their last outing at Bondhay. But, hemust have stared in disbelief as a regulation par equated to nett eagle on the opener courtesy of it being stroke 10! Not usually a word associated with Hoenne – consistency – but consistent it was. Could 18 holes be strung together?

Horsey kept accumulating: a one pointer always followed by a 3 for a steady start, although the 2009 Runner-Up would always view it as a missed opportunity. Riddell was clinging to Hoenigmann’s coat tails, and could only watch on as his nett birdie was surpassed with nett eagle up 12. With the 18th to play Hoenne held a 2 point lead and his competitive instinct was not about to let it disappear. Nett birdie securing bragging rights until next time!

With the field split it meant a well timed gathering into the 19th, although there was only chance for one with barkeep heading back for his Sunday snap rather than add an extra £100 takings – although it did look like a rowdy lot…

With the scores all accounted for it was the Doctor, Jay Brown (38) who claimed the opening honours, and the pot, with a 3 shot victory over the ‘Handicap Protectors’ of Chubb (35 B9:17), Bremner (35 B9:16) Ball (35 B9:15) and McLoughlin (35 B9:13) Hoenigmann (34) another to finish impressively.

A select few swung back via the Jolly’s, while the others retired home thinking of what could have been.

With potentially the closest run tour to date, it will certainly go down to the wire. Brown stamped some early season authority but as ever with the best 5 out of 8 rounds to go forward, will everyone be able to fulfil the quota?

2009 TGS Champion

2009-01-30T05:06:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Richard 'Chubby' Big 4' Chubb who was presented with the 2009 TGS Trophy from 2008 winner Tim 'Meds' Meadows, after a dramatic win at the first play-off hole, against 2006 Champion Jason 'Horsey' Horsburgh.

The win capped a brilliant two weeks for Chubby, who proposed to girlfriend Alison - who of course said yes! Top man!

You Couldn't Script It

2009-01-29T04:33:00.000-08:00

The finale of the TGS 2009 Season, at Cotgrave Masters, saw 6 wily campaigners all vying for the title. Tuckwell struggled with his admin, again, in no way trying to gain a psychological advantage. Only checking the exact tee off the day before and finding it was an hour earlier than broadcast, but pre match bacon butties were included – every cloud!

A.T. withdrew due to back complaints, with Horsburgh Snr and Radford on family duties. Innaugral 2005 winner, Baker, was on season debut with all previous TGS champions on parade and was surprised to see a rife drinking culture with beers lined up before 12. Pike persisted with the shorts but did not fall foul of the laws on his second outing. An honourable tie and shared trophy was discussed before a motion passed that it would be back down the first if it couldn’t be separated...

Baker, Pike, Duffin and Vin opened up with some flawless front 9 golf. 14 - 3 pointers and 3 - 4 pointers easy going (how the final four could have done with some of that!). Vin rather disheartened to be 3 points adrift at the turn with 18 points. Pike, 21, Baker, 22 and Duffin 23. It was a case of contrasting styles with Baker and Duffin launching with the big dogs and Vin and Pike ‘The Iron Kings’ smashing it slightly straighter but just as far.

Baker made the first move on the back 9, holing a monster birdie put, down, round and across the tricky 11th green. This inspired Duffin to drive the 12th – but 4 putts weren’t part of the equation. Pike once again showed his second row power by hitting a 9 iron to the 170 yard par 3, 13th.

Entering the toughest stretch, Baker held a 2 shot lead (already on 36 points) with the tricky last 3 to play. A worm burner made it not 5 yards above the ground, but safely carried the pond on the signature 16th. Vin was high but dry before Pike had 6 of the best: top to the path, fat – inches before the reeds. An awkward stance but managed 8 skims across the pond before falling agonizingly short, before reloading to a foot and holing out – nice. Duffin completed the set by firing high and handsome into the field beyond!

An attacking approach to the monsterous 17 saw Vin march off with 3 points – how welcome that would have been to some of the leading pack – as the others all scored with arrows into the green over more water.

Baker held his composure up the last to sign off in style with a nett birdie and a 42 bumper points, ably supported by Vin (37) Pike (36) and Duffin (35) Good scores boys.

The outsiders of Chubb and Brown were partnered by a ‘dry’ Hepburn. Brown still at a club in Oxford at 3am that morning finishing off wedding celebrations – impressive. Needing a score near the 40’s Chubb exploded into life with birdies on 2 and 3 and 12 points in 4 holes – which was relayed via text to Horsburgh and Co, and promptly followed by a blob – karma! Brown kept in touch with some 3 pointers of his own as Heppers rekindled some of his old magic with 13 points in 4 holes from the 4th. Chubb (21) by 1 from Heppers (20) and Brown (18)

Heppers recorded his second nett eagle of the day up 11 as Brown lost his way through the opening 5 holes. Chubb kept on the throttle, 1 over through 7 leaving himself very handily placed with 2 to play. Hepburn left 14 alone but finished strongly for his best round in possibly 4 years – anything to do with the lack of beer fridge? Brown regrouped for a 10 point last 4 hole stretch as Chubb lost sight of one down 17, a point was scrambled and a par to finish off but would it be enough?

Thacker, Meadows and Dean were off and running. Meadows quickly into his stride, fresh off the 18th at Stanton, with 16 points in 6 holes. Thacker, still ruing his handicap cut, showed his professional streak with a steady 18 point opening. Dean, with fully functioning trolley, used all his experience to hold on to the young whipper snappers. Meadows by 3.

The bogey express awaited Dean on platform 10 to be finally departed on 14. Meadows opened with back to back nett birdies as Thacker raised the bar: 1 under through the back 7 and to tie Meadows with 2 to play. 4 points for Thacker to Meadows 3 meant a 1 shot victory with more good scores in excess of 36 points. I’m sorry Neil but that’s another shot gone! Well played both.

The Final Four: Hefter opened up with some ditch trouble on 1 as Daft somehow hit 4 balls on 2 but still ended up with a par thanks to his eagle eyed partners. Tuckwell slipped in the first of his many 3 putts on 3, as Horsburgh talked himself out of a 2 footer insisting it could be given! Hole 4 was negotiated without hitch before Horsburgh holed a snaking, off the green, monster to consolidate a great start on 5.

Daft seemed to be circumnavigating 6 before canning a 12 footer for a point as Horsey kept pressing. Back to back nett birdies for Horsburgh had Daft scurrying for the notebook to see what the damage was. Horsey 3 up through 8! Hefter and Tuckwell were struggling brilliantly on the greens, Hefter just shading it – with another that agonizingly slipped by.

Ditch trouble on 9 was capitalised on by Daft with a sterling up and down for nett birdie as the pair finished the 9 neck and neck on 19 points, with Tuckwell (16) and Hefter (15) languishing.

The Final 9: Bounce back ability from Hefter with 12 points in 6 holes as Tuckwell shot himself in the foot with three 3 putts in the opening 4 holes. 5 points apiece for the leaders over the opening 2 holes before sand curtailed the scoring for both on 12.

Tuckwell, having putted himself out of the running, seemed to swing more easily and found some success with the wand. Birdie, par, birdie from 14 suddenly launched himself back into contention. Daft was clinging onto his game after some uncharacteristic shots as Horsburgh held firm.

2 to play

Horsburgh (33) Tuckwell (32) Daft (30) Hefter (29)

17th
Tuckwell had the honour and the chance to turn the screw but bailed out massively left pulling the nuts off one and requiring a penalty drop. Daft and Horsburgh were safely away, before a routine lay up saw Daft find the water, followed by Hefter then Tuckwell. Horsburgh kept his composure to find the green in 4, 2 putts meant 2 points.

18th
4 drives dissected the middle of the fairway with the crowds gathered and chortling. Daft and Horsburgh both fired big and left in 2005 Hepburn territory. Hefter found sand via the tree as Tuckwell set up a 15 foot birdie opportunity. Hefter played a beauty, while Tuckwell finished agonizingly short. 2 heavy chips and 3 putts a piece meant a point was scrambled by Daft and Horsburgh as the crowd assembled and Tuckwell searched for the answers.Little did he know - Horsey you've got 2 for it!

Chubb’s 40 pointer meant a huge 21 point jump up the leaderboard to 171. Tuckwell improved to 168, Brown 166 and Hefter 164. Daft could not add to his 31 point low and remained on 167. Horsburgh with a 6 point improvement joined Chubb at the top of the pile with 171! – A play off! Clubs were quickly discarded as all 14 rushed back to the first!

THE PLAY OFF

Chubb won the toss and elected to insert Horsey (ooh er...) who teed up with a shot knowing a par would have to force a birdie.

The big tree proved Horsey’s foil, stopping it dead 100 yards down, as Chubb sailed one over, pulled slightly left into the rough – as the crowd followed and the members thought what the…

Heartbreak for Horsburgh as the approach was caught fat and trickled into Hefter’s ditch. A penalty drop was opted for rather than having 4 hacks at it and shaking hands amongst the fauna.

Chubb had chance to shut the door but a neat looking approach fell a foot short and back into the sand.

Horsburgh regained compsure and fired into the heart of the green for 4 nett 3 as the tension mounted.

Chubb played a beauty under the circumstances leaving both players 30 foot away with Horsey to throw first... It set off on a fantastic line but pulled up a knee trembling 3 foot short.

With the darkness gathering Chubb settled over a right to lefter as the assembled held their breath. It appeared to be on a superb line but with plenty of coal on it. The ball raced towards the hole as onlookers held their breath... as it disappeared into the bottom of the cup with half of the back of the hole on it.

Cap thrown in air, a jump for joy and ecstacy for Chubb as the applause rung out and both players embraced.

A tremendous, tremendous finish to an excellent season. Well done all as hot beef cobs and alcohol awaited at the 19th.

Steady on Meds, you'll not eat your dinner...

The high scoring daily honours went to Baker (42) from Chubb (40), Hepburn (39) Thacker (38), Vin (37 B9:19), Meadows (37 B9:16), Pike (36 B9:15) and Horsburgh Jnr (36 B9:15)

The final shake up was as close as close could be with all the top 6 wondering what could have been.

1st: R. Chubb – 171 – Ave 34.2 (£50 and trophy)
2nd: J. Horsburgh – 171 – Ave 34.2 (£30)
3rd: S. Tuckwell – 168 – Ave 33.6 (£20)
4th: R. Daft – 167 – Ave 33.4
5th: J. Brown – 166 – Ave 33.2
6th: M. Hefter – 164 – Ave 32.8

Permutations

2009-01-28T05:15:00.000-08:00

Entering the final weekend, 6 players could still lay claim to the 2009 TGS title. Daft is still in the box seat but a traditional bumper points tally round Cotgrave could see the lead change hands on more than one occasion.

Daft and Tuckwell have a lowest score of 31 and Horsburgh 30, with Daft holding a 2 shot advantage over the pair. Brown has a lowest score of 29 but sits 6 points adrift.

Hefter, with only 4 rounds in the bag requires a 35 pointer to tie the leader, and scores above if 31 points and more are achieved by Daft.

Outsider, Chubb, has a meager 19 points to improve on and is certain to do so significantly but somewhere in the region of 40+ may be required.

There’s sure to be many twists and turns. Watch this space.

Contenders Steal a March on Daft

2009-01-27T04:42:00.000-08:00

The penultimate round of the 2009 season saw a return to the players’ favourite of Horlsey Lodge. The International Baker Cup was taking place the same weekend and even hardcore Hoenigmann declined a place, after originally declaring himself available after 2 all dayers and a drive up from the New Forest.

Most of the action took place before even a ball was struck. Chubb, Meadows and Brown were already on the range an hour before tea off as the Tuckwells’ and Horsburgh Snr hit the bar. Daft was dealt a kick in the pills, looking forward to pushing over the finishing line with a round to spare, but received a call that the house had been burgled and headed back home with everybodies sympathies. Tuckwell, Brown, Chubb, Hefter and Horsburgh were later cleared of any wrong doings…

Tuckwell managed to avoid embarrassment having counted 12 players on the list and still having 12 with Daft having to leave and Potter not travelling! Least he’s not a teacher…

A beautiful mid October day, brought debutant, Pike, out in his shorts, which was too much for the neo-nazi Horsley starter. Introducing himself to Tuckwell for the first time, he opened up with a dead pan, “You’re not coming back here,” followed by a, “You’re not coming back here ever again!” Apparently the shorts were not to Adolf’s liking; despite protests that a quick visit to the car would produce some trousers! A full group ejection was by-passed but it was a good job he had his back turned for a couple of the tee shots!

Hall nearly lit the touch paper again, being undecided as to whether to play left or right handed and swinging with both clubs on the tee, but all 3 groups got away without further reprimand!

Chubb was buggied up due to having a squash match later, with Brown as a co-pilot. Meadows and A.T made up a quality looking, single figure, 4 ball - aiming to make the most of the scoring around the front 9. A.T and Chubb abstained the first whilst Brown and Meds safely parred. Chubb bounced back midway through the 9 with consecutive nett birdies to repair any early damage.

The Doc showed some good early running but tailed off with a quartet of 1 pointers to the turn. Meadows looked to be heading for the halfway lead before failing to notch on 9, leaving A.T to share the spoils with Chubb, to lead by 1, but historically lower than expected.

A.T, appearing to disagree with the par 5’s, started the back 9 similarly to the first as Meds recorded back to back blobs – which set the tone for both their back 9s - a nett birdie up 18 a pleasing finish for Meadows. Chubb mixed the highs with the lows, 2 nett birdies followed by 2 empty spaces but a further 3 pointer left ‘Big 4’ with a steady total.

The trio were instead to marvel at the Jay Brown show. Par-par-par-nett birdie was just the appetizer as the 510 yard par 5 14^th was humbled with a drive - 6 iron to 5 foot. The eagle putt, with a shot, was holed, dead centre, for the Docs second 5 pointer of the year. The adrenalin was pumping and was followed up by a double, but 2 further nett birdie to close the nine resulted in a fantastic level par, 22 points (with a blob) total.

Hall, Hefter and family Horsburgh teed off with the starters good blessing. Hall was calling all the shots – fore left, fore right, hook, pull – it was no clearer if left handed or right handed was the way forward. 2 nett birdies in the last 3 holes of the front 9 some solace.

Horsburgh Snr, on seasons debut, comprised a very tidy 18 points containing 3 nett birdies to sit pretty. Horsburgh Jnr opened with a flurry of 3 pointers and would have expected to be in the box seat with 19 points after 9, even with a blob but Hefter had other ideas. The former Horsley 9 hole champ set off with a steely purpose amassing 21 points in 8 holes: 3 nett birdies and a nett eagle conducive to good scoring. Unfortunately it was still 21 points after 9 holes but a tremendous start nonetheless.

A 3-3-0-3 back 9 start for Hefter filtered back through the course and 30 points after 13 holes suggested something big on the cards to launch him back into contention for the Race to Cotgrave. Hall couldn’t quite find rhythm and harmony with his game but kept up the scoring and no thoughts of the TGS low. Horsburgh Snr opened the second half with a magnificent birdie and 4 points, a further net birdie was overshadowed with a smattering of 1s but a very solid mid 30s score on the return to the fold.

A minor wobble on 11 for Horsey Jnr, was nothing but a blip as he comfortably finished just under the handicap committees' radar with a points boosting 35. It was all down to Hefter, with thoughts of 40+, 6 points in the final 5 holes was not what the doctor ordered. The group win a positive, a shot off the handicap a negative!

Thacker just made it from football in time to team up with Tuckwell Jnr, Pike and Radford and found himself easily the lightest member of the quartet at 13 stone. All 4 got away, some further than others, but the tee remained in one piece and the starter wasn’t looking! Quick, go! Tuckwell was stuttering from the start 4 points over the first 4 holes – poor - Only a 50 foot putt across the slope on 7 leaving anything to write home about. Pike, unfazed by shortsgate, decided to circumnavigate the greens to get a true feel for them – part of the grand plan for a storming back 9!

Thacker hit a spectacular 2^nd ball birdie with some sublime touch. A birdieless front 9 was just the aperitif for another storming finish. Radford found his swing after the first with back to back nett birdies – hitting the driver nicely off the tee and followed it with a further pair of 3s, one to concluded the 9 and with it steal the front 9 honours.

Tuckwell and Thacker both fired wildly right off the 10^th and found themselves back on the 1^st, for their 3^rd shots. 1 point for the latter a disappointing start for the pair. Radford had a satisfying net birdie up 17 to leave promise for another day after a shaky mid round stretch.

Thacker decided enough was enough and hit 3 straight birdies from 13. The best, the 90° dog leg 15^th – taking on the corner and converting after a tricky pitch. A bogey was followed by further pars and a top draw 2 under last 6 holes. Tuckwell, inspired, decided to cash in on the bumper points fest, birdie, par, birdie thorough 15 was finished off with 2 nett birdies to improve on his lowest score.

Pike, with his irons off the tee and raw, raw power, hit a trio of 3 pointers, the best at the par 3 12^th – clubbing 3 less than his partners! A lull was followed by a truly bumper finish from the big man. With the greens well and truly measured, nett eagle and birdie was finished with for a excellent debut.

Countback was needed to separate a 4 way tie at the top, with three of the contenders sitting pretty with excess of 20 points. It was to be Brown (36: B9:22 B6:16) who was finally victorious, third time lucky after 2 previous countback reverses. Pike (36 B9:22 B6:13) could be well pleased with his debut efforts to finish 2^nd ahead of Thacker (36 B9:21) Hefter (36 B9:15) missed out on what could have been but a great round but a good score nonetheless. Horsburgh Jnr (35) Tuckwell Jnr (33) and Chubb (32) all capitalised on Daft’s misfortune with Cotgrave Masters awaiting.

9 out of 8 Balls Prefer the Water...

2009-01-26T03:56:00.000-08:00

Photos to be added

A first time return to Rufford since Jenko’s all conquering previous TGS record of 42 points back in 2006. A small, yet quality field, was reduced in numbers courtesy of holidays and marathon running, but a fine 7, booked for 8 but Hoenigmann was running fashionably late, enjoyed some spicy tomato soup and a plate full of sandwiches to line the stomach.

The proud starter kindly informed Meadows, Daft, Dean and Hefter of the rules, blue stakes only potentially in range on 1, 2 and 18 – a free drop regardless of finding your ball all not.

4 top draw belting tee shots off the first from the opening quartet can’t pass without mention, Meadows a nett birdie for a tidy opening conversion. Dean was unrattled by a trolley malfunction on 3, with the handle falling off at least it wasn’t the wheels (they cracked later, I jest you not) A nett birdie sandwiched in between a solid run of pars kept the title dream alive. A no score on 7 was followed with a nett birdie up 9 for a great opening. With Daft sensing some late magic from Potter he quickly rebuffed a generous 2½ down hill gimme from Hefter with a ‘not acceptable’ comment. Dean holed to avoid controversy but the stall was set!

Meds finished as he started the 9 with a 3 pointer, the filling was a mixed bag which promised more but was still in the hunt for a back 9 assault. Hefter opened solidly and was one above the card after the first 4 holes but a par 3 hex seemed to have been cast and the shorter holes proved an undoing but like Meadows still in the mix.

Champion elect, Daft, was out of sorts with some heavy handed approach shorts but clung to the coat tails of Dean who led by 3.

Approaching the 10th tee Dean’s trolley problems seemed to be mounting and could be seen trying to hotwire the loose wires before holding/steering/guiding and powering in one movement. A visit to the water was not the start required with mind possibly elsewhere, although a second ball par kept the points accumulating. Unfortunately Dean joined the 5 point club on the way in but not for 5 points on one hole…

Meadows was clearly pumped up after a blob on 12. An all action blockbusting drive was launched a full 335 yards (GPS registered) down the 641 yard monster 13th. The rest of the hole went round the houses but a nett birdie was recorded nonetheless. 6 points over the next few holes left it delicately poised for the tough finish.

Daft had a near ace on the long par 3 15th, it had some coal on and had a large bounce but definitely jumped after hitting the cup – a square smack on the pin could have resulted in a totally different story.

Tuckwell, Hepburn, Doc Brown were joined 5 minutes late by a beaming Hoenigmann, but expected nothing less! The late start hampered the latter who finally regrouped and started his round on 4 – drawing the conclusion that late arrivals may not be conducive to good scoring. Finally in the swing – 10 points in the closing 3 holes was also nothing less than expected – nett eagle up the 9th the highlight after flirting with the trees

Doc Brown had a magnetism around the green with some deft links approaches hitting the pin and leaving tap in pars. Tuckwell on the other hand was atrocious round the green after pleasing approach play – frittering shot after shot away with untidy play.

Hepburn spluttered through the opening exchanges looking for that spark to ignite the kindling, whilst not picking up big points it was points on each hole before and excellent 3 pointer up 8 which resulted in a well deserved can of G&T to celebrate.

Comedy on 9 as Tuckwell first sent a tee shot skimming treewards and pleading for a fortuitous kick, which did so ricocheting 90 degrees back across the fairway. Hepburn repeated the exact feat with the very next tee shot with the ball finishing 5 yards away from Tuckwells. Tuckwell then proceeded to launch a 3 wood via the roof of the driving range/road/car which somehow finished on the other side of the putting green but in bounds. Hepburn and Hoenigmann tied by 2.

The group willed Hepburn’s tee shot over the water on 10, but proved too much hilarity for the pair of jockeys in the buggy behind who implied that a little less lairiness and more haste may be better. Tuckwell disagreed before opening with a birdie.

Hepburn and Hoenigmann were questioning Tuckwell’s decision not to let the buggy bandits through. Tuckwell relayed the scenario to Meadows who calmly concluded – phukem! Case closed.

Brown got tangled on 10 and 11 but 13 points through the next 5 holes catapulted him back in to the fray. Hepburn had a couple of revelations after launching a drive 15 off of a brand new large wooden blue tee peg declaring, “I thought I was sh!t but obviously it is the tee peg,” followed by proclaiming loudly on the tee of following par 3 that he would give a grand to anyone who hit the green, his playing partners were scrapping for the tee before the reality of the comment was realised and downgraded to a £1. No one did hit it though!

Hoenigmann continued his mini purple patch 4 times in 6 holes putting for 4 points and spectacularly managed his first 2 pointer on the 15th – unfortunately the elation / suprise was to prove too much and no further points were added.

It’s all about the 17th…

Standing 80 foot above the island fronted green is quite a test at the best of times and with it looking decisive: Hefter (25), Hepburn (26), Daft (27), Meadows (28), Brown (29) and Tuckwell (30)

Hepburn and Hoenigmann had already cast the spread with Heppers going for 4 wet balls and Hoenee lower.

Meadows was first to find a watery grave with Tuckwell’s motor mouth ringing in the distance, which was followed by one way left and on the cusp by Dean. Daft followed suit for another submerged effort for 3 in 3. Hefter sent one greenwards which looked just short all the way – it was short bit hit the rocks at such an angle that it leapt upwards with a mountain of top spin and found the green! What do you reckon to that Punch? - The that’s way to do it! The drop zone saw some action with Dean pitching back into the water twice before shoulders slumped and forlornly looking for the first one. 5 in and the spread looking expensive. Hefter the only one to capitalise with a 2 putt par for 3 points.

Brown was pumped off the back of a nett birdie but over clubbed finding some thick rough beyond the green. Hoenigmann found the centre of the pond and was followed by Hepburn who went for the Barnes Wallace approach but sank on the 5th skim. Tuckwell found the heart of the green with the benefit of going last. 7 balls in

Hoenigmann’s dropzone effort couldn’t find Hefter’s angle of rock approach with his pill agonisingly rebounding back into the pond. All was not finished, even with all men over the bridge, Brown’s effort out of the thick stuff seemed to gather speed across the green and trickled into the water for a tremendous 9 balls in the water! Amid all the excitement Tuckwell 3 stabbed!

Coming onto 18 it looked like a 4 horse race with Hefter and Meadows (28), Brown (29) and Tuckwell (31) Tuckwell decided to lose his cool and not add to his score whilst Hefter could only add a solitary point. Meadows hit a monster put couldn’t find the needed birdie while Brown holed out well for par.

A re-run of Wollaton saw Tuckwell on his 50th TGS appearance (31 B9:18) sneak a low scoring effort on countback from the Doc, Brown (31 B9:16) Meadows (30) was the other to hit the 30 point target with everyone sipping their pints and mulling over what could have been!

One Shot Wonder

2009-01-25T12:48:00.000-08:00

A golfing week that got progressively worse for Tuckers had one moment of salvation at 10.45 on Saturday Morning.

After a tongue in cheek coverage of Father Tuckwell's Ruddington round the Golfing Gods dished out a little pay back as first Doc Brown was victorious in Tuckers back yard with a comprehensive 3&1 performance at Stanton, on a windswept Wednesday.

Tuckwell and Meadows faced much better golfing conditions in the Thursday Medal once again at Stanton, one over through 5 for Tuckwell seemed satisfactory with both players becoming agitated by the slow play. 13 over for the remaining 13 holes and not one creditable shot left Tuckwell bemoaning his ineptitude as Meadows sneeked a pleasing one shot victory. Canning a bunker shot on 16 the highlight after 2 previous near misses earlier.

A fourball with A.T. and his Belton Buddies, Friday morning was unsuccessfully swerved with the game in tatters. 8 lost balls in 7 holes leaving the recently met partner shaking his head in disbelief.

Still the Saturday Medal would surely be welcome relief...

Front 9:
4 - 3 - 4 - 4 - 3 - 5 - 4 - 4 - 5 = 36
4 - 5 - 5 - 5 - 4 - 7 - 7 - 6 - 4 = 47

Back 9:
3 - 4 - 5 - 4 - 4 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 5 = 37
3 - 4 - 5 - 4 - 7 - 1 - 5 - 7 - 9 = 45

There it was on the 15th hole a drilled 4 iron that was hit too hard and slightly pulled but pitched 3 foot from the pin and gave an almighty clatter. A half hearted look around the green revealed nothing before a closer examination of the hole revealed the titleist 2 sitting in the bottom of the cup! Joy of joys before working out how much the bar tab would cost - if only you were golf planned up! I would like to say that the elation caused the 7 - 9 finish for a glorious 92 but alas I cannot and no worries Dafty for my end of season run.

School can't come round quick enough!

Like Father Like Son

2009-01-24T11:33:00.000-08:00

Young Archie Daft looks to be following in his father's footsteps with a text book swing. What odds on emulating Dad as a potential TGS Tour winner / champion or even hitting the big time. Not that it gets much bigger!

Potter Pouches The Pot

2009-01-23T06:38:00.000-08:00

A first time visit to Ruddington after a 7 week absence. A local venue due to the holiday season being in full swing and inadvertently the final day of the Ashes, similar to the Morley Hayes visit back in the victorious 2005 series.

An early morning promise of low scores, due to fine weather, was reassessed with a stiffening afternoon breeze but Dean softened the blow, pulling some home course favours from the pro-shop, negotiating a £5 discount from the nice but assistant.

A.T, Doc Brown, and 2009 favourite, Daft opened up. Concerns regarding the latter who hadn’t had a midweek sighter and was one of the last to arrive having appeared to have caught the remnants of some swine flu - no doubt spread by Chester room mate, Chubb.

A.T could not have envisaged what was about to unfold after 5 points in the opening 2 holes and looking well set. This was matched by the ever steady Daft, wheezing into a handkerchief. The Doc was on hand with a consistent start of his own.

The 6th proved troublesome apparently rumours of a naked lady saw all balls hoiked treewards left. A.T proving to be the most experienced in these situations - recovered for par. So there’s 8 points in 3 holes Dad…

Daft sent a wormburner to within 6 foot of the par 3, bowl, 8th but the putt squeezed past. Brown faired worse, with one eye on Daft’s condition, circumnavigating the hole on 4 occasions to send his blood pressure to astronomical proportions, and steam rising on the short walk to the 9th tee. Fully armed with driver and a vat of testosterone, ball 1 was dispatched to Clifton with ball 2 Wymeswold. Daft faired little better as A.T used all of his guile for a text book par. 10 points in 4 holes… Daft by 2.

Pars all round up the generous 10th before A.T. lost it with after a wide tee shot on 11, a combination of 3 puts, ditches, reloads, ditches and roads changed A.T’s perception of the game: rearrange ‘camper-a-not-happy’

Brown refocused with an exquisite stretch of one over through the back 6, and 2 over in total, 3 '3 pointers' and a 2 over, gross 38, a very welcoming finish for another plus 30 score.

Daft seemed to be coping well before the Benadryl began to wear off, four consecutive one point scrambles mid way through was nothing compared to the 18th – where a pitch to the green was over juiced - flew out of bounds - hit a wall - and ricocheted back pin high on the green - 2 putts -par - thank you very much!

Homer Dean, fresh from the plane, Jenkinson, and Tuckwell Jnr were second up. Dean, finding the fairway, set the way, unfortunately Tuckwell went with the reload and Jenkinson a double -no guesses for who scored the only 2 points. Tuckwell responded with a nett birdie on 2, before boarding the bogey train with a ropey short game, only saved by some decent holing out. Pars on the final 2 holes at least gave hope for the back 9.

A birdie, nett eagle, on the long par 3 third boosted Dean before some uncharacteristic shots curtailed the scoring and 1 point in three holes. However there was good bounce-back-ability with 8 points in the final 3 holes of the 9.

Jenkinson was striking the ball well but couldn’t find his radar off the tee, nett birdies on 7 and 8 helped the scoring before another high wide and left finished the 9 as it started. Dean by 3

Tuckwell was right in the swing and transferred to the par express, racking up some good points in the process, before derailing on platform 14 and edging home in no way what so ever missing 30 points and looking for a shot back with one more sub 30 round…

Jenkinson was battling some inner demons off the tee, especially on the par 3’s, trying to out do himself each time on how far left he could hit it. Some good recovery play and putting ensured a more satisfying finish.

The scene was set for Dean who kept his foot on the throttle, one blemish on 14 after taking an iron for safety - if you’re going to mess it up you might as well do it with a driver. But not for the first time Potter was wizard on the greens – anything inside 10 foot a cert. 4 nett birdies on the way home posting the club house score.

After the customary 18 holes in the morning, Meadows was armed with trusty caddy Liz, and partnered with Hoenigmann and Horsburgh Jnr. Dorman just made up the quintet arriving in the nick of time but affected the first few holes due to a lack of a warm up. Rhythm returned as the 9 progressed with both par 3’s expertly navigated the 8th for 3 points.

Hoenigmann carried on with his Bondhay momentum - the pick of the holes a net birdie on the tough pond laden 4th. Meadows decided do save the ink in his pen by only scoring on 5 of the opening 9 holes although the birdie nett eagle on stroke 1 was sure to be satisfying.

Fresh from chortling at Tuckwell’s and Jenkinson’s wayward efforts, Horsey hit the ground running with ambitions of reeling in Daft – 4 nett birdies in the opening 5 holes and 14 wholesome points. A steady finish saw 20 points racked up at the turn and a 5 shot lead.

Meadows turned up the pressure gauge and flexed his guns to rip into the back 9 – 1 over through 6 – a bounce in the step and sway in the swagger. A lost ball on 16 and ditch drive on 16 may have caused the end for many but a penalty drop - and up and down – for par nett birdie – proof that if you’ve got it, you’ve got it.

Liz noted that the colour of the language was increasing as the back 9 progress with the air turning stronger shades of blue as Horsburgh, mainly, began to unravel, politely.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZaqXSzF-ic

Hoenigmann had his customary purple patch – 13 points through 5 holes to 17 finishing with another excellent round. More joy on Par 3’s for Dorman – par and bogey – totalling 2 over for the four of them and job well done.

The Sky Sports ‘player cam’ fixed on Horsburgh with scenes reminiscent of Happy Gilmore’s debut tournament. 26 points through 13 holes still represented a good tally before double dyke trouble and the Meadows surge began to cause problems – still all good entertainment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCQumUTzxVc

A dry and enjoyable – for most - round saw all 10 unscathed - apart from those wearing shorts and were bitten to shreds - adjourn to the 19th for some refreshments and to put the pounds in the pot. The Preston Potter, Mr Jim Dean (34) secured his 3rd win in 15 starts with a 2 point victory as Daft (32) consolidated. Brown (31 B9:20) ousted Hoenigmann (31 B9:16) and Horsburgh (31 B9:11) on countback.

Just one more!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyPe662Vf3c&feature=related

Half Way Through.

2009-01-22T05:52:00.000-08:00

TGS Season 5 resumes after a 7 week Summer break with a first time tour visit to Ruddington Grange, this Sunday, 23rd August, teeing off from 2.30.

http://www.ruddingtongrange.co.uk/golf/index.cfm?s=3

With a tough 5 from 8 scores qualifying for the end of season grand prize, this 5th event could see the first challengers post a target.

In the box seat is TGS’ Mr Consistent, Richard Daft – A weekend score of around 36 points would accompany his 36, 34, 34 and 31 very nicely and leave 3 further rounds to improve, with availability not an issue.

The best of the rest have potentially 2-3 good scores in the bank and will need some sharp shooting over the remaining fixtures.

A.T – 36, 29, 29 – averaging a game a day this year is sure to be competitive if the holiday schedule allows.

Horsey, 2006 Champion, can never be ruled out off a steady handicap and with a deadly short game. 37, 32, 30 is a steady opening.

2007 champ, Tuckers, may have peaked too early, opening rounds of 33, 33, 34 were followed up with a 20 point shocker at Bondhay – but 3 good scores in the bank.

Although not playing this weekend, Chubby has made a promising start, 36,33, 30 – but will need a strong finish to content but is capable of shooting low.

Ant Brown, Jay Brown, M.Hefter (Stats), McLoughlin and Frame all have a score in the mid to late 30’s posted but will need a full attendance quota with good golf to lift themselves into contention.

With prize money available for the top 3 players £50-£30-£20 it is still all to play for and there will still be plenty who are unmentioned who will fancy themselves as an outside chance – Meds!

Round 4 Review: Bondhay

2009-01-21T05:50:00.000-08:00

A humbling experience for all bar one as the might of Bondhay may well have finished off the next batch of Tollerton Golfers. The sandy Worksop Course was once again not short on participants, with an impressive 15 hoping that this year might be the year… despite the fact that it yields as the 1st, 2nd and 4th most difficult course in TGS History on stableford points! Good stat!

Hoenigmann (15) was the solitary halfway leader no doubt with a point to prove to his step-father, Ian Riddel (13) a former scratch golfer and Scottish pro footballer who was part of the 1965 Berwick Rangers team who dumped Rangers unceremoniously out of the Scottish cup.

The best of the rest faired little better. Daft (14) Thacker, Horsburgh and Doc Brown (13) while single figure golfers Chubb (7) Meadows (8) Tuckwell (9) shouldn’t give up the day job. Taxi…

3 players returned a very respectable back 9 – A.T (18) birdie on 13 and 3 more nett birdies to follow. Thacker (16) who impressively started his back 9 like his front 9: blob, blob, birdie. 29 points over 14 holes not bad at all. Brown (16) was perhaps the most impressive in becoming the latest member of the 5 point club. The 515 yard par 5 was reduced to a driver and a wedge, over 2 ponds to 4 feet and holed out with a shot – tremendous.

1 player returned an exceptional back, Daft (20) With the bit between his teeth and applying one hand to the TGS 2009 trophy, he finished with a 3 over, gross 39 – with 3 bogeys and 6 pars, for an outstanding 34 points – 5 shot win – and the only man over 30 points! If that’s not worthy of a shot deduction I don’t know what is!

Daft (34) from A.T (29 B9:18) Thacker (29 B9:16 B6:13) Brown (29 B9:16 B6:12)

With the average points coming it at 24.2 – 1.5 shots less than the previous most difficult course – Bondhay 2007 (25.9) The rest must have had a bit of a mare. Tuckwell Jnr (20) finished with 6 points in the last 3 holes to just avoid joining the 3 other weary souls who remained in the teens.

Next time Boys...

Round 3 Review: Wollaton Park

2009-01-20T05:49:00.000-08:00

The traditional Friday Night Summer round at Wollaton didn’t disappoint with sunshine a plenty. 14 made the trip in search of the customary 40 point haul and a definite contributor to the end of year points tally. Stanton boys’ A.T, Tuckwell Jnr and Medows made the most of a three ball opening start and whizzed round in just over 3 hours and some quality time in the bar.

Phoenix and Dorman were on season and career debut, while Chubb made it in the nick of time after being stuck right behind a car crash and providing a statement. A. Brown just made it through the rush hour to polish off a pre-game sausage and bacon cob.

It looked like a 5 way challenge at the turn. Doc Brown (18) leading the way with Tuckwell Jnr (17) Chubb (17) in hot pursuit and A.T. (16) and Dorman (16) a shot further back.

Dorman and A.T faded, the latter unsurprisingly as this was the 2nd leg of 18 holes in 24 hours, the next commencing at 6am the following morning for a shotgun start.

Marriot (19) produced the pick of the back 9’s but it was left to a 3 way shoot out between Tollerton Primary School Classmates: J. Brown, R. Chubb and S. Tuckwell.

A birdie on 12 saw Chubb tie Brown with Tuckwell one adrift with 6 to play. 3 points over the next 2 holes for Tuckwell saw him tie Brown for the lead as 1 point saw Chubb drop 1 behind the lead.

Another 1 pointer saw Chubb drop 2 back as Tuckwell and Brown both parred 15. Pars for Chubb and Brown on 16 saw the latter take the lead as Tuckwell could only bogey after a 3 putt.

It looked like curtains for Tuckwell on the par 3 17th as the tee shot went no further than about 9 yards. An up and down spared blushes and proved significant as Brown and Chubb could only bogey.

With the 18th tee mounted Tuckwell and Brown were tied, with Chubb 2 shots adrift. A generous stroke 6 meant shots all round. Chubb capitalised with an excellent birdie for 4 points as Brown and Tuckwell both parred for nett birdie.

Nowhere near the scoring of yesteryear with Ladd’s course record of 43 points never in danger but Tuckwell (34 B9:17) didn’t mind one bit sealing the victory on countback from J. Brown (34 B9:16) with Chubb (33) on the podium.

Chubb Victorious After the Inquisition

2009-01-19T00:13:00.000-08:00

An informal gathering, with Rushcliffe not taking societies, saw 15 hardy souls spontaneously arrive to brave the elements for an impromptu 3.30 tee off... A dodgy kebab accounted for Dessaur with Thacker walking the hills of Derbyshire.

3.30 also appeared to the time when 20 members turned up and a thousand eyes burned from the clubhouse at those ‘not from round ‘ere.’

Never was such pressure to dispatch from the first with so much disdain building, members matches hastily arranged and medal tees faked in order to pull rank. Tuckwell held firm agreeing on an alternating system with all safely off by 4.15.

Brown Jnr, Chubb, Horsburgh Jnr and the most decorated manager in Tollerton FC history, Jenkinson, were entrusted with flying the flag and didn’t disappoint, Brown launching one up the left centre of the fairway followed by Chubb with a squally shower set. Not a problem for Brown who stormed to 2 under through 4.

Chubb clung to the coat tails as Svenko set his tone 2 blobs, net birdie and nett eagle in the opening 4. Horsburgh was consistent, unfortunately all aboard the bogey train. Brown three putted out of nowhere on the downhill 5th, but closed out a splendid 9 holes in 1 over, 34 gross and 20 points.

Chubb was in contention before 3 one pointers slowed the end of his 9. Jenko, just thankful for some time out the house, enjoyed the company but kept the points accumulating. Horsey stayed in touch with some customary straight hitting. Brown by 4.

The quartet set the standard for a profitable back 9, Horsey closing out his final 5 holes with 13 welcome points, a birdie nett eagle on the feature elevated 14th the highlight. Brown kept up the momentum with another 3 points up 10 but once again was thwarted by the par 3’s and joined Horsey’s bogey train at platform 13 departing at 17.

Chubb sensed an opening and stepped on the gass with 4 ‘3’ pointers in 6 holes, including self proclaimed excellence when sinking a birdie 2 on the short 11th – ‘that was a brilliant putt!’ - to much amusement.

Jenkinson hit his second 4 pointer of the round on 16 with the pin precariously placed. Chubb drew level with Brown on 16 and edged one ahead on 17 before closing out with a text book birdie up 18.

With the crowds building McLoughlin, Buttress, Doc Brown and Hoenigmann remained rock solid and all delivered. Hoenigmann casting Tuckwell a wary glance to be paired with a big hitting trio. Buttress birdied 2 amid the usual clamouring for a handicap increase that fell on deaf ears. Hoenigmann was put totally off his swing being first man to arrive due to a miscalculation in the arrival time.

The Doc had a strong mid 9 showing of 4’s and 3’s but a couple of no scores prevented further advances. McLoughlin got off to the usual free flowing start with Horsburgh once again the target! It was bumper points for Buttress as a further 3 nett birdies sealed a large 20 point, gross 37, front 9 and a 3 shot advantage.

McLoughlin maintained the only form through the turn and was sitting pretty through 14. Buttress, after the Lord Mayor’s Show, imploded - sighting ‘tiredness’ as the reason, with McLoughlin suffering a similar fate but with no reason offered. Hoenigmann created the loudest excitement of the back 9 after an approach from the elevated 14th rolled inches past the cup but stone dead for a cast iron 2 for 4 points.

Brown showed no sign of tiredness and powered through the final 7 holes in level par and for 16 satisfying points, a birdie up the last leaving a sweet taste made even more palatable by stealing the group spoils, by a shot.

Frame, Daft, Radford and 2008 Champion Meadows, fresh from a morning round at Stanton all got one away. Frame bringing his monkey to chuck his ball back in bounds after being barracked from the patio. Daft was quickly into his stride with a nett birdie on 2 followed by an exquisite birdie on the tricky downhill 5th.

Frame matched the 3 point haul through 2 and 3 before losing his way slightly, as the sun burst through. Radford’s highlights were nett birdies on 3 and 9 in a solid opening. Hype, fatigue, pressure from the members accounted for Meadows who uncharacteristically struggled, carting the ball along way – but way out of town, with the reload the shot of preference. Daft by 2.

A rare lift for Meadows on 10, saw him accumulate nearly half of his front 9 score as Radford found the terrain hard going but kept the no pointers to a minimum. Frame peaked around amen corner with more 3 pointers but a routine mixed bag down the straight curtailed any thoughts of challenging for honours.

It was left to Daft to go it alone in the quest for glory. Level par through the first 4 holes saw a sizeable 11 points accumulated, another 3 points up 15 left the Hucknall Wizard on 31 points with 3 to play. It looked like the dream had ended with a costly chip on 17, but bounce back ability ensured another birdie finish up the last.

Bremner, Round 1 winner and previous Rushcliffe winner, Hefter and Tuckwell Jnr kept the crowds at bay and opened in the best of the weather but still in full wets. Bremner a great up and down for a 3 point start. Hefter unfortunately set the tone for his round with some heavy approaches and 3 putts but bounced back with 2 pars and 6 points.

A 3 putt from Tuckwell on 5, after an arrow like tee shot was his only blemish in an otherwise steady opening. Bremner had a mid 9 wobble but finished as he started the 9 with 3 points. Tuckwell led by 1 as Hefter rued 4 no scores.

Layers were shed as the sun beat down on the 10th but with the wind still making conditions tricky. Tuckwell missed birdie by a fraction on 12 but capitalised on 13 after racing the initial putt past, as Hefter set himself a target of 5 birdies in the final 8 holes… Tree trouble halted Bremner’s push up 13 but back to back net birdies on 15 and 16 reignited the charge.

Hefter hit the 2 point train only halted by a nett birdie on 15 with a stone dead approach. Tuckwell wobbled down the stretch, with a couple of 90 degree efforts that thankfully didn’t prove catastrophic thanks to some clutch putts. Separated by one up heart attack hill Tuckwell sealed the group win after Bremner’s downhill birdie effort defied gravity and pulled up short.

A full house in the bar was made one more as the Rushcliffe Lady Captain sauntered over and all eyes disappeared in to the bottom of the pint glasses. Horsburgh, having already fended off a multitude of on course questions from members was fearing the worst, although was wisely not wearing his white trainers. However the Lady Captain was touting for members and was obviously impressed by the fine golf and camaraderie or simply by Hoenigmann!

A re-run of the October Away Weekend saw a carbon copy finish with Daft (36) and Chubb (36) tied - both inseparable with a back 9 total of 20 points and back 6 of 13 points. But it was Chubb who stole the win with a back 3 finish off 6 to Daft’s 5. A potential handicap revision was more of a worry than collecting the spoils. Tuckwell (34 B9:18) pipped Brown Jnr (34 B9:14) with Bremner (33) finishing well.

Redemption for Red Hot Horsburgh

2009-01-18T00:57:00.000-08:00

$ KERCHING $

After seeing Kenny Perry blow his hopes of a sizeable windfall last week, Horsburgh dusted himself off and got right back in the chair. Bang in form, having secured a place finish in 6 of the last 7 weeks, Horsey selected 80-1 American, Brian Gay, to do the damage in last weeks Heritage Classic.

Leading by 3 going into the final day, American Brian Gay, helped by a monster eagle putt at the par-five 2nd, stormed to a stunning 10-shot victory and clinched his second PGA Tour title after closing with a seven-under-par 64 at the Harbour Town Golf Links.

Gay set a new tournament record as he wound up with a score of 20 under and produced the biggest winning margin on the USPGA Tour in over 3 years, thus allowing Horsburgh a sizeable windfall to add to the 'Summer of Excess' spending pot.

Horsey Counts the Costs

2009-01-17T00:37:00.000-08:00

After Horsburgh Snr's £2.50 each way bet on Grand National, 100-1 shot, Mon Mome, son, Jason was hoping to emulate the feat. Having successfully backed golfers in the each way places over the last 4 weeks, 80-1 shot, Kenny Perry, looked likely to make it a 'Happy Easter' by going one better in the US Masters, courtesy of being 2 clear with 2 to play. Alas is was not to be and another significantly less, each way recoup.

Hefter Leaves His Mark

2009-01-16T00:16:00.000-08:00

The prophets of gloom were chuntering from Thursday afternoon, as the forecast seemed to be deteriorating with Friday pm predicted to experience the full wrath of the elements. Tuckwell was running on Nottingham being on the East of the Country rather than the Midlands as the phone calls kept arriving, and the numbers swelling to record highs.

Ar$e and elbow sprang to mind as the tee off seemed to vary from 11.30 to 1 o clock but proved to be a blessing.

Amidst light drizzle, Chubb, Doc Brown and Brown Jnr, with a miserly 18 shots between them, got Season 5 underway. Chubb, with course form after jointly scooping the Away Day Championship at Stanton, back in October, immediately found rhythm with a birdie 2 on the second. A mixed bag followed but 15 half way points was a steady opening. Another in the handicappers grip, North Shore 2007 Champion, J (Doc) Brown, clung on to the coat tails of Chubb to finish 1 back at the turn. This was matched by brother Anthony with trademark consistency.

Doc Brown hit the front, by 1, with a decisive 3 pointer up 12 and was 2 clear standing on 17, with it certain to go to the wire. A slice of fortune aided the Docs playing partners, who were full of sympathy… as a raking approach to the green nestled high into a fir tree and remained. Chubb and Brown Jnr drew level on 27 points with the Doc still one ahead, as the 481 yard par 5 18th waited. Sensing their reprieve, Brown Jnr hit a priceless wedge to 3 foot to set up a birdie, while Chubb matched with nett birdie. Brown Jnr edged it on the count back by 1, and impressively scoring every hole.

The high maintenance, serial handicap pests of Buttress and Frame were accompanied by partner in crime, Daft, and seasoned campaigner Dean. Daft, the joint 2008 Away Day Champion failed to trouble the scorecard down the first and remained sluggish through 3, before stepping on the gas. Frame, who was once again after a significantly higher handicap than was given, was sitting pretty with 16 points through 8 before carding a snowman (8) up 9, fearing that the handicap may be reduced further! Buttress couldn’t quite find his A-game but had enough quality in the locker to draw on the 3 pointers when necessary and keep in contention. Dean finished the nine strongly with 2, 3 pointers in an otherwise indifferent start. Frame by 1.

Despite a solid mid round showing, a no pointer up 18 left Buttress adrift as a 3 way shoot out ensued. The initiative swung to Daft after a prile of 3 pointers beat Frame’s 4 of a kind (of 2’s). Dean looked dead and buried after a no score up 13, but 12 points in 4 holes meant that the trio stood on the 18th locked on 32 points. Matching nett pars saw Daft oust Frame on count back and justify the handicappers’ decision!

Another closely run fourball was to follow as A.T. Horsburgh Jnr, Radford and debutant Cochrane teed off in full wets. A.T, as always, stepped up to the plate, and with home field advantage managed to find 3 net birdies in a solid opening 18 points. Horsburgh, the steady eddy metronome, couldn’t buy 2 points, but more 3 pointers than 1’s left him handily placed at the turn: the best firing into the heart of the green from sand 120 yards from the green on 6. More sand nearly signaled the end for Horsburgh up 8, this time greenside, as a McLoughlin exorcet whizzed past the ear finishing on the green, from the group behind. Cochrane started and finished the nine with 3’s in an all scoring 9 holes. But it was all about Radford in an inspired showing that filtered through to last years champ, Meadows, who made a bee line for the course in between shifts. A steady opening 4 holes was merely an hors d’oeuvre as a landmark first ever, non wii, birdie was registered: a 2 on the 140 yard par 3. A beaming smile and fully deserved, well done. A four footer for another birdie just slipped by on 8, but a nett eagle ensured 4 more points, 23 in total, and a 4 shot lead at the turn.

A mid 9 wobble halted Cochrane’s progress, but a pleasing debut nonetheless. 8 points in the opening 3 holes left Radford on an astonishing 31 points with 6 to play. However a Mickleson and Tigeresque charge from A.T and Horsburgh began to turn up the heat. A double up 15 halted A.T’s charge, but 7 points in the last 3 holes meant a competitive opening round. Horsburgh found his first 2 pointer up 15 but once again it was threesey does it, and a welcome return to form, to sneak home by a shot.

Horsburgh Snr once again started the season in optimistic fashion, well handicapped and in great form. An ace, congratulations, with the Old Peculiars the previous Tuesday leaving a spring in the step. McLoughlin, with a staggering 36 point average over 7 rounds was joined by Hefter, who was suffering from a previous night scissors/bacon/thumb incident which required heavy bandaging. 3 nett birdies were balanced with 3 no scores for Horsburgh as McLoughlin began his assault on the course with a show of class golf: No green was safe and watch out the group in front! A tentative showing on the short stuff prevented heavier scoring, but a 2 putt birdie on 8 was satisfying after finding the 305 yard green! Hefter, in obvious discomfort, waited for the blood to seep through before blocking out the pain and serving up a treat. Despite to 1 pointers early doors, 18 points at the halfway mark was to leave a 2 shot lead and a pint of blood less.

The sight of the claret proved too much for Horsburgh Snr who upped the anti and decided to hit 3 trees per hole instead of one. McLoughlin was one over through 8 and with a shot up the last was eyeing another post 36 score, but fearing another handicap reduction managed to keep his head below the radar. A nett eagle up 12 ensured Hefter’s momentum and nett birdies up 14, 15 and 17 guaranteed success. With 39 points after 17, the iron levels hit dangerously low levels with Guinness the only remedy. Pints not points was the priority up 18, with the scorecard untroubled.

Drury, Marriot and everyone’s favourite lefty, Dessaur, were joined, on debut, by local sporting legend, Graham – amidst some handicap wranglings! Dessaur lit up the proceedings with 16 points through 6 holes as Drury proved to be as consistent as ever. After a ‘solid’ opening, holes 3 and 4 were to be quite literally toilet for Graham, a ‘dicky chicken tikka’ perhaps responsible for a (pebble) dash to the commode! A TGS first but apparently not a personal first in a similar repeat, a year previous, at Stanton! A 2 hole exodus was followed with regularity and some wholesome scoring. Marriot started with aplomb, but started firing wildly off the tee, frequent reloads preventing meaningful scoring. Dessaur by one.

Marriot finished strongly as did Drury who, on home turf, produced an expected compact score. Dessaur could not reproduce the sparkling early round form and left another TGS first on 12 with p/u recorded on the card. That was to be the only no score on the way in. Graham showed what he was capable of and managed 9 holes without leaving the course or cause to find a dock leaf and be at one with nature. An 18 point return was very satisfying and a definite one to watch.

Tuckwell Jnr thought he had miscalculated, sending everyone out without partners for himself until KCC enforcer, Garland, and perennial last man standing and arriving, Hoenigmann, wheeled into view. Tuckwell began with a mark of consistency, one up on 2 points through 7, before trouble started brewing. Hoenigmann started brightly, in the gloom, before struggling after an extra practice swing on 2. Garland couldn’t string 2 shots together before law and order was restored on 4 and the points began accumulating, 6 points in the final 2 of the 9 offering promise. With the hordes of Stanton members gathering like the distant rain clouds Tuckwell began to feel the heat and was keen to keep a safe distance to avoid any accountability and reprisals. Unfortunately this had a negative effect on the golf and with blood pressure going through the roof; it appeared like a visit to the City Hospital would arrive sooner than next Wednesdays scheduled appointment. Angry Kid by 4.

The Tuckwell meltdown continued with 3 points in the next 4 holes which was 3 more than was deserved as Hoenigmann found his customary 6 hole flourish: 16 points, including 2 nett eagles, the best a birdie 2 on 15, with the putter hot. The big stick couldn’t rescue Garland although some lusty blows were dispatched, 3 points up the last led to a pleasing finish. Tuckwell somehow found back to back birdies up 16 and 17 as the pressure gauge hit simmer, with the clubhouse in sight.

A great showing in the bar, with much merriment and Amen corner on the flat screen, as tales of what could have been floated around. Hefter and his well bandaged thumb were surrounded by pound coins in an unbelievable effort! The Brown’s tucked into a hearty ploughman’s as Frame tried to recoup his losses on the snooker table and the plans for the evening were discussed.

With the dust all settled it was Hefter (39) who stole the show with his 3rd tour title and 9½ digits! With Horsburgh Jnr (37) sneaking second from A.T. (36 B9:18) and Radford (36 B9:13). McLoughlin (35) and Drury (35) notched very creditable scores along side Daft (34) and Frame (34) – 26 handicap my eye!

I even managed to make the bandage look like a mini chef's hat!

Full results will be mailed round.

G.O.D. Day

2009-01-15T00:11:00.000-08:00

Four of the TGS mainstays, Tuckwell Jnr, A.T, Horsburgh Jnr and Daft took advantage of the ‘Golf Organisers Day’, Not self titled G.O.D. day… open to all societies who play at Cotgrave over the year.

A chance to gets some holes under the belt was jumped upon on a glorious March morning. Best 2 out of 4 stableford was the format with ‘Team TGS’ aiming for 90 points, 5 per hole, (do the maths) around the Masters Course.

Tuckwell Jnr and Daft were straight off a Bridgford power session and grateful for the all inclusive bacon cob. Horsey was fine after a regulation 2 bottles of vino while A.T. was struggling with some back troubles. Daft and Horsburgh unleashed some wormburners down the first. While Tuckwell Jnr found greenside sand from the middle of the fairway, 3 points. The generous second yielded a welcome 6 points, with Daft putting for eagle.

A.T. appeared allergic to the fairways, favouring the 45º below the feet in the rough approach, although a snaking 40 foot putt from off the green on 5 indicated his arrival – welcome to the game.

Horsey was treating the assembled to yet another new putting style, while Daft was 100% off the tee with the trade mark fade and deadly on the baize. Tuckwell Jnr was showing plenty of promise from tee to green but couldn’t convert for a hatful of birdies. 42 points at the turn.

A.T tested the new driving range out from the 10th tee and was to repeat the feat from the 18th. Points were frittered with an untidy showing on the green. 11th proved fruitful with Daft once again holing with style.

A run of ‘apparent’ easy holes was to derail the challenge. Tuckwell Jnr, realising the good form could hamper a handicap increase, went to pieces while A.T. favoured the hedgerow bottoms. A run of 2-3-3 points required a reassessment of an 80 point target with 4 to play.

A Hepburn Shiraz was found at the bottom of Horsey’s bag and duly opened, with the effects immediate. A.T’s whisky and drambuie laden hip flask also made an appearance. Ah… nothings changed! Chris you’d be proud!

A.T. stepped up to the plate with a sterling finish, triggering a 6 point haul on 15 and a bonus 5 point mark on the island 16th courtesy of a birdie with all four balls dry and safely on the green.

Tuckwell Jnr and Daft found water of the monster 17th tee but Horsburgh and A.T. consolidated for a 4 pointer. 5 points up the last sealed a satisfying 81 points.

Drinks sat outside on the patio was an added bonus, especially watching a senior gentleman circumnavigate a hole on the putting green for a good 10 minutes without holing a thing, even from a foot, brilliant.

The same place in 7 months time will reveal the destiny of the 2009 TGS Champion.

2009 Fixtures - Hot off the Press

2009-01-14T13:52:00.000-08:00

The 2009 calendar is hot off the press, and appears below. Stanton-on-the-Wolds is the choice for the opening exchanges of season Number 5, wow! Meadows won't be able to open the defence of his crown due to work commitments but 'guns' will sure to be blazing in a well stocked retro puma wardrobe come round two at Rushcliffe. With roughly 4 weeks between rounds there should be no excuse for a full turn out and the closest run title to date.

Always a favourite, Wollaton, reclaims it's regular Friday night June outing for round 3, followed by the sandy monster that is Bondhay. Ladd and Frame among the riders vowing never to return!

Ruddington appears for the first time, a local and established course, in the month of August, be sure to book the family holiday wisely. I'll be back from honeymoon! Rufford returns for an end of season run coupled with the beauty of Horsely (not Horsey) and the traditional finish to sort the wheat from the chaff, at Cotgrave and the Masters.

Hope to see plenty of you along the way.

Best FIVE not FOUR scores will make up the average for the end of season awards

If anyone has any comments to Frame and Buttress starting off 26 and 13 respectively please voice your opinions/concerns.

Round 1: April 10th - Stanton-on-the-Wolds @ 1pm

Round 2: 17th May - Rushcliffe @ 3pm

Round 3: 19th June - Wollaton @ 4.30pm

Round 4: 5th July - Bondhay @ 12.30pm

MID SEASON BREAK

Round 5: 23rd August - Ruddington @ 3.30pm

Round 6: 13th September - Rufford @ 12.30pm

Round 7: 4th October - Horsley Lodge @ 1.30pm

Round 8: 18th October - Cotgrave Masters - 11.30am

2009 Calendar

2009-01-13T10:38:00.000-08:00

Hopefully the TGS 2009 Fixture card will be published a week on Friday.

2009 sees a reduced number of events but hopefully an increase in quality and with more time in between each outing to allow as high an attendance as possible.

Credit crunch, weddings, low summer attendance, led the management to decide on an 8 event season, with the 4 best rounds to count for the end of year trophy.

Pencil in the opener for April 10th (Good Friday) further details to follow.

Another Boy

2009-01-12T10:27:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to everyones favourite Yorkshireman, Hally, and wife Alexis who are proud parents of their first child. Samuel Ellis Hall born at 10.32 on the 13th of January, weighing a healthy 9lb 4oz.

Matt did you keep Samuel awake through his first Derby game yesterday?

Vin's World Blog

2009-01-11T12:54:00.000-08:00

An update of Vin's travels in the form of a blog. A little work in progress with some back dating to do, largely thanks to the theft of camera, phone and credit cards.

Shark for Christmas Dinner, stung by a scorpion and getting as high off the floor from a sea of hungry army ants that devoured everything in its path. A modern day biblical locust kind of thing. All part and parcel of the Central American Experience...

http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/nadiavinny/1/1225468800/tpod.html

Around the World with Vin

2008-03-31T23:57:00.000-07:00

PART II

We've been 'off piste' for the last few days on an Island called Caye Caulker off the coast of Belize. Had an interesting journey down from Mexico, thru the apres hurricane flooded North. Carnage on the roads, unfortunatly resulting in us having to spend a night in 'One of the worlds most danergerous Cities' Belize City. And fook me its tasty. All shops, houses, everything are covered in Bars. literally unpleasent on the street.

We turned up in the dark and walked to a hotel and soon had a 6 and a half foot Rasta named 'Jalfly' hassling us for money for escorting us safely through the streets. Anyway the evening continued in such vain. Not a nice place. We are in San Ignactio on the Belize-Guatamala boarder tonight. Nice place and food other then Nacho's and Chicken Stew.

Over the boarder in the morning, with initial thoughts of a 4 to 5 weeks, with a few of those learning Spanish. We have rushed through Mexico and Belize and will put some photos online soon. The Mayan temple area of Uxmal was paticularly impresario.

Around the World with Vin

2008-03-31T23:56:00.000-07:00

With the clubs shelved for the Winter, attention turns the International Man of Mystery that is Mr Neil 'Vin' Tuckwell, to keep us entertained. Embarking on yet another world adventure follow the globetrotter as he hits the interesting sights and 'wildlife' of Central America and India.

Part I

'Out of Mexico city. Had a great last evening in The Red House, a big dinner party for day of the dead. 30 interesting folks, mostly American and mostly gay. Good food and wine. Nearly messed up our flight times. We thought we flew at 9pm. Just about to head out for the day at 11am and noticed we flew at 4. Made it in fine time. Flew into Merida last night. Got into the travelling vibe flagging down a bus on the nearby motorway and a hike across town to the Hotel Becil. Lovely place, a big dance in the town square. Much more like it. Mexico City a place to be forgotten I think. Went off to a great Mayan Ruin called Uxmal today, really amazing got some great photos hour and a half from Merida, Pyrmids, High priest chambers, emormous Iguanas everywhere, Vultures circling. Off to Tulum early in the morning.

Not resting on Laurels.

Keeping moving.'

Date for the Diary

2008-03-31T23:55:00.000-07:00

Not long, only 6 weeks away and in time honoured fashion and tradition it is the Tollerton FC now TGS Christmas All Dayer.

Date: Friday 19th December

Venue: West Bridgford

Start: TBC - likely to be the Test Match.

Time: Approx 2pm - will be advised nearer the time

TGS End of Season Weekender

2008-03-31T23:54:00.000-07:00

The traditional TGS weeked away had a slightly different feel for 2008 in that North Shore Skegness was not the destination but Cotgrave, West Bridgford and Stanton. An away weekend at home much to the disappointment of Hoenigmann!

Friday night was the informal start at the Plough at Normanton to make the draw for Saturdays team event. Tuckwell and Hefter had planned on it being leisurely until Hoenigmann arrived and forced the pace. Nevertheless the draw commenced at 9 pm. Draw Master Hoenigmann had the low handicappers, Hefter the bandits.

Horsburgh Jnr (16) and Frame (20)

Drury (13) and Marriot (19)

Buttress (11) and Hall (27)

Daft (13) and Hefter (23)

McLoughlin (8) and Dessaur (28)

Thacker (3) and Radford (28)

Chubb (10) and Hepburn (25)

Tuckwell (6) and Hoenigmann (28)

Bangles Ltd was immediately informed and odds hastily created with Horsburgh Snr first to place a phone bet on Daft and Hefter, due to not being able to bet on himself. Drury and Marriot were installed as early favourites with Daft and Chubb the favourites for the two day individual challenge.

The texts began early Saturday morning from Frame, the usual... 'What am I off?...' Before you answer that I am playing shocking' and 'Never too early for a handicap pitch!'

10am the rendevous at Cotgrave and to count all the contenders in, Tuckwell and Hepburn going down the alcohol route, Daft bring his fold away fine china and for a spot of Earl Gray. Drurs sat tight unhappy with the rate of return from the bookies, as a couple of potentially big hits on Buttress at a more than generous 16-1 outside rested heavily with Hepburn. Not much interest in Chubb and Hepburn, the bookmaker clearly aware of the state of his own game.

The format: Better Ball Stableford - with both scores to count on 1, 7, 11, 15 and 18.

News filtered through that Buttress was on fire which did little for the mindset of Hepburn. Chubb was nearly decapitated from a Radford 'fore right' but a bit of Matrix dodging spared a 999 call. Hoenigmann was about to pack it all in after 9 before patience proved beneficial and a pleasing back 9. As usual not enough course for Thacker and more putts than hot dinners.

With all safely back in the clubhouse it boiled down to a 2 horse race with the top 2 in a fourball together and watching each others every move: Buttress and Hall v Daft and Hefter. A one shot lead for the formers at the half way stage with Hall using his shots to perfection. blob, 3 for 3, 3 for 4, blob. Ideal betterball play and an early lead before Daft and Hefter clawed back 4 shots on 8 and 9.

A 5 point advantage after the 14th looked comfortable before the 15th and both scores to count. Daft and Hefter amassed 7 huge points, cutting the lead to 2 before, unfazed, Buttress and Hall stepped up a gear to ease home to be victorious with 53 points. Chubb (20) picked up the front 9 prize, with Buttress (21) the back 9 honours

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Weekendchallenge_results.xls

Home made scotch pie and lager was the order of the early afternoon before the 5.30 Southbank meet. Hepburn disconcelate as to how he could prevent Buttress from bankrupting him after 39 points, sambuccas seemed the best option, £50 to save £200!

A cracking turn out at the Southbank saw the Baggies rolled over by United before hitting Amicis, the Larwood and Fire and Ice. Dessaur was struggling before venturing out with deli belly, but nothing compared to Hefter's majestic 'S' over the newly carpetted floor. Dog and house. Tuckwell had a midnight tumble and decided the carpet on the landing was the most comfortable place to rest, while Hepburn was last seen plying Buttress with more drinks and Hoenigmann showing no sign of tiring.

Sunday morning, bright and breezy, and the first of the non runners clocked in, McLoughlin and Whitfield as the 11 o'clock tee off loomed with no sign of Buttress. 11.15 and mission accomplished for Hepburn: Buttress non-runner. No sign of Thacker and Meadows just completing his first 18 of the day came into view at 11.30. Thacker with a herculean achievement arrived 4 holes late but very commendably after completing 90 minutes for Rempstone. The toys coming out the pram with 20 to go nothing to do with being tired and emotional but a terrific effort. Hoenigmann still remarkably fresh and kept his 100% last man standing record intact.

It was all shaping up for 1 of 3. Drury (34) and on home soil, followed by Daft (34) and Chubb (33). Marriot (30) couldn't be discounted. Drury was first to finish and sitting comfortably in the clubhouse with 35 points and a combined 69 total as Chubb and Daft came slogging it up the last, Horsburgh Snr amazed as to the drama that was unfolding.

Chubb v Daft

Daft with a slender 1 shot advantage immediately applied a choke hold, 12 points through 5 compared to Chubb's stuttering 8 points.

Daft 5 up thru 5

5's seemed to be the order of the day as Chubb registered 5 points on the 6th and 12 in the final 4 holes compared to 6 from Daft.

Chubb 1 up thru 9

10th: Birdie for Chubb to Daft's Bogey - Chubb 3 up.

11th: Imediate response and scores reversed - Chubb 1 up.

12th: Honours even after another nett birdie for Daft - All Square

13th: A pair of pars - All Square.

14th: Daft hits the front: nett birdie to par - Daft 1 up

15th: Pars all round - Daft 1 up

16th: Even stevens and nett pars - Daft 1 up.

17th: Momentous: A double from Daft to Chubb's birdie and a 2 shot swing - Chubb 1 up.

A howling gale into wind on the par 5 18th - Daft hits the 5 iron of his life to 10 foot to set up birdie as Chubb recovers well leaving himself a 30 footer for birdie and the victory. Chubbs effort glides past but stone dead for nett birdie, leaveing Daft the simple maths - 10 foot for the tie and down to the last action once again. IN IT DROPS and what a finish, what a battle, as Tuckwell hit the phones to decide what happens in the event of a tie! Countback or shared.

A shared trophy seemed the correct outcome after the sweat and toils of the weekends exertions as Chubb (40) is top man followed by Daft (39) and Drury (35) A great performance from the Potter, Dean (34) in tough conditions.

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Stanton08_weekendresults.xls

A quick relaxer in the Stanton lounge before heading off to the Plough at Normanton for whence it all began! A veritable feast laid on with the trimmings of Sunday Lunch plated up. Beef cobs and plenty of roast tatties and chips. Happy days. Hepburn arrived a relieved man, the tote breaking even. Tuckwell the major beneficiory of his investments, hey I didn't set the odds, merely advised! Still its all accounted for and in the wedding pot!

With prizes handed out it was an honorary tie between messrs Daft and Chubb (73) with Drury (69) picking up an excellent third.

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Weekendchallenge_results1.xls

Great effort all round and I hope everyone Winters well!

WINNER

2008-03-31T23:52:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentleman, your 2008 TGS Champion.

Mr Tim Meadows.

The Showdown

2008-03-31T23:51:00.000-07:00

An absolutely sun drenched afternoon at the traditional finishing post, Cotgrave Masters, the venue for a lucky and youthful 13. Dessaur was hoping for some ‘ginger time’ – cloud cover! As the sun beat relentlessly down. A midweek call from the pro offering a switch to the Open course due to the poor state of the greens was turned down, nothing to do with A.T. sitting pretty in ze Black Forest trying to make it more favourable!

It was a hive of activity as an air of excitement swept the fairways with news that Meadows was in town, minus 4 iron after trying a spot of late night DIY but completely shafting it... The main man seem unfazed and had time to spare around the practice green. Trev looked sprightly a 5 o' clock wake up call and pre-game jog all part of the new fitness regime.

None could beat the eager beavers of Duffin and Vin who arrived at 9.30, the latter not storing the previous evenings phone call to brother Tuckwell as to the 11.30 tee off… Where is everyone? Couldn’t even pin it on the clocks going back! Still if the bars open...

Naaman made another splendid return with clubs on board moped as did Wood Jnr making his season debut and definite best turned out: a post round change of clothes – nice touch!

The young bucks of Duffin, Wood, Vin and Naaman flew out the traps in a blaze of sunshine before the photographer could arrive. Naaman the first to show with his broad shoulders generating some power and accuracy for a blinding 12 point 4 hole showing and even bigger grin than usual.

All 4 filled their boots on 2 - a tasty par for Vin notched a bumper 4 point haul. Naaman plateaud with a disappointing run of 2 pointers as everyones favourite Irishman, Duffin, produced a mixed bag of 3-2-1, Ted Rogers and Dusty Bin. Wood stablilised with the lions share of the ‘shots du jour.’ But it was left to Naaman with a monsterous TGS course record of 23 points and a 6 shot advantage over Wood.

It turned into a mini horribulus for Vin after the turn, as the first of 7 balls decided to go missing – maybe one eye on the charms of Central America, 14 days and counting. Although a sterling job to keep the quarter moving at a canter may also have contributed. Naaman continued in explosive fashion with more 3 point mayhem on 10 but the weight of expectation fell heavily with a gargantuan score on the horizon.

Back to back snowmen on 11 and 12 (8’s… keep up…) curtailed Duffin’s charge but was clearly enjoying the late autumn sun before heading back off to the Alps for another season of après Ski and chalet maids, oh, and managing some resorts.

Wood slipped on the shades for a sparkling back 9 and one of the few contenders to tame the beast: stroke 1, double laked 17th. A no score up 18 was a slightly sour end but enough to triumph on countback despite Naaman’s heroic 1 point save. Some leafy shade under the mango trees and a bit of grazing as the remaining groups appeared on the horizon seemed just the ticket.

I bet he doesn't make as big a mess as I did...

KCC connection of Tuckwell Jnr, powerful Kiwi, Garland and Romeo Dessaur were guarateed of a giggle. Dessuar appearing from behind the bins last seen heading for the tee just the hors d’oevres.

Dessaur’s latest dating antics held conversation through 6 putting Davey G off his swing. Some nakedness and removal of layers was not enough from preventing a blockbusting Garland drive becoming part of the Shepherd’s Sunday Carvery as the 3 iron was being contemplated off the next tee.

Tuckwell was perhaps the only man to not fill his boots on 2 despite predicting it is a certain 3 pointer. Greenside in 2, 4 shots later – thanks for coming and keep your mouth shut! The ever consistent Dessaur was finding sublime form from tee to green put couldn’t get the chips to land close enough and putts within dustbin lid distance as a multitude of 3 putts were accumulated.

One last throw with the driver, with the disdain usually reserved for a pie chucker up the slope at the field of dreams saw Garland well and truly knock the back doors out of one up 7, definite 300+ setting up a 3 for 1 for 5 opportunity which just slid past, still 12 points for the final 4 holes of the 9 not to be sniffed at. All the measure of the greens had been met by picking the line of courdrouy you wanted and firing away! A late flury by Tuckwell kept him interested but it was Dessaur by 1 from Garland.

More barbarity from Garland with some huge prop forward drives that exploded down the centre of the fairway, 14 points in the first 5 holes on the back 9 looking ominous. Tuckwell managed to Barnes Wallis one across the pond 10 yards in front of the 11th nearly escaping with a par. More nearlies but not quite was the back 9 story, with the putts not quite falling but another pleasing 18.

Dessaur was directionally alert undermining the job of a caddy as it was ‘clearly this way, there's the pin, what can be more difficult than that! The radar still wouldn’t work on the greens but the points kept building – a fantastic 3 iron to 6 feet on the tricky par 3 13th was exceptional after looking tired, emotional and disconcelate during 12, which could have bee renamed ‘tete’ in his honour. The next par 3, was equally entertaining with Dessaur first up. With 8 iron in hand, convinced it was a 7, and with playing partners watching through closed fingers. The ball was fired into its usual rsesting place, safely over the water but 40 yards into the adjoining field and out of town. Garland followed suit before both reloads found the baize and brought adulation from Horsburgh Snr, who was not informed that they were indeed the second attempt.

Dessaur found water on 17 but recovered superbly, Tuckwell acting as caddy instructed the left handed maestro in no uncertain terms to not aim for the flag with his approach, due to perilously placed pin – advice unheeded as one arrowed to within 4 foot and high fives. Garland rather limped home but an excellent card for handicap purposes and a 3 shot group win with a strong looking back 9.

Horsburgh Snr, Daft and Hefter, the latter two harbouring outside title aspirations, were left in the shade by their playing partner who was intent on showing the field what they had been missing – 3 nett birdies and a tasty nett eagle on the way to matching Naaman’s Cotgrave Masters front 9 record of 23 points.

Hefter bravely hung in there, a no score on 4 the only blemish to an otherwise very tidy front 9 – nett eagle on 7 the highlight.

Daft showed signs of promise with a flurry of points but was derailed by the two large trees guarding the front of the 8th and was left to tally Horsburgh’s 4 shot halfway advantage.

A further nett eagle – birdie combination on 11 and 13 catapulted Horsburgh to a sublime 37 points with the testing final two holes to finish. Daft started very solidly, a nett birdie on 15 very helpful before finding water on the delicate 16th. A great response up 17, and one of the few to tackle it successfully, was finished with a TFC up 18, still plenty of promise for next weekend.

Hefter couldn't quite repeat a back 9 charge but boosted his average by 10 shots for a jump up the leaderboard.

Horsburgh found trouble up 17 and looked in good shape on 18 as an approach rolled close, a little putt took the unintended line and glided past, the significance of this outcome was to prove costly but still a welcome return to form and a commanding group victory.

The final trio, Meadows, Marriot and Horsburgh Jnr, set off with the destiny in their own hands. Horsburgh needing a massive 42 points was probably undone on the 4th and took up a commentatory / coach / mentoring role and tried to remain as impartial as possible as the drama unfolded. Rumours of chanting, ‘Meadows’, ‘Meadows’, ‘Meadows’ on each tee were unfounded.

THE SHOWDOWN
MEADOWS v MARRIOT

With both needing over 30 points to overhaul Tour leader A.T. it was Meadows in the box seat with what equated to a 3 shot advantage over Trev.

Hole 1: Ominous Trev found the ditch guarding the fairway as Meadows arrowed his approach to the front edge of the green. A remarkable recovery from Trev saw his approach land inches from the pin and a cast iron 4 nett 3. Meadows carded a 4 himself… unfortunately 4 putts, no points and lead evaporated!

All square

Hole 2: Immediate response from Meadows – nett birdie against par.

Meds - 1 up

Hole 3: 2 shot swing. Trev makes his shot count for nett birdie as Meds scrambles a bogey.

Trev - 1 up

Hole 4: A scrappy 4th sees Meds level courtesy of par to Trev’s bogey, but 6 points in total sees Meds at rock bottom and sought wise words from Horsburgh to refocus.

All square.

Hole 5: A kick in the pills! Horsburgh levels up the fairness stakes with an unmarked ball on the green, with Meds already gone Trev had a treacherous pitch which was flying handsomely into next week before hitting Horsey’s ball full on and stopping dead, feet from the hole and allowing unlikely 2 bonus points for Trev.

Trev – 2 up.

Hole 6: More misery for Meds as equal pars are not enough to prevent Trev gaining further momentum courtesy of a shot.

Trev – 3 up

Hole 7: Level pegging as a pair of nett birdies mean no change

Trev - 3 up

Hole 8: Locked again on the well guarded 8th as a pair of pars are both registered, Trev relentless as another shot consolidates the advantage.

Trev – 4 up

Hole 9: Bite back: Stroke index 2 proves no problems for Meadows as a nett birdie against bogey claws two welcome points back.

Trev - 2 up

Trev 2 up at the turn thanks to a huge 21 points opening blast, Meadows regrouped after being shell shocked and on to the more tricky back 9...

Hole 10: The comeback. Nett birdie for Meds to Trev’s par, despite finding the thick rough off the tee.

Trev – 2 up

Hole 11: Advantage: Two solid drives but with the adrenalin flowing, Trev overclubbed and flew through the back of the green not to be found again. Another nett birdie for Meds wiped out the advantage.

Meds - 1 up.

Hole 12: Nudge, nudge, wink, wink. Meds finds the fairway as Trev hits the fairway bunker, amidst wry smiles from Meds and an extra swagger in the walk. Meds find s the green 10 foot away as a good approach from the sand finds the front edge with a 30 foot looming – which snaked, hopped, bobbled and jumped its way into the back of the cup for a nett eagle and the smiles wiped from Meds’ face as nett birdie was all he could register.

All square

Hole 13: With the pressure beginning to tell. A solitary point for Meadows on the straight forward par 3.

Meds - 1 up.

Hole 14: No change, both tackling the long par 5 without difficulty – 2 more points each.

Meds - 1 up

Hole 15: Swings… a tidy approach and 2 solid putts and nett birdie for Meds who opens up a 3 shot advantage: Trouble in the rough problematic for Trev.

Meds – 3 up

Hole 16 … and roundabouts. The blood clearly pumping for Meadows, who cleared the water but also cleared the green and out of bounds markers leaving the door firmly ajar. 2 welcome points for Trev 1 behind with 2 to play.

Meds - 1 up

Hole 17: Treacherous tee shot as 2 wormburners were safely bailed out to the left. Horsey, feeling left out, played Trev’s ball and hit a pearler. With the error being realized the ball was replaced but the damage done! As the ball wouldn’t appear to want to leave the ground. Meadows dug deep securing a nett par and advantage down the last.

Meds – 3 up.

Hole 18: Meadows inhaled a cigarette in 3 breaths as the equivalent of a Madras was making things twitch. Meadows with the honour, regrouped and fired the 3 iron of his life down the centre of the fairway. Trev found rough, right hand side past the first trap. With the crowd assembled in the shade and eagerly awaiting Trev fired majestically, the sound of trees clattering long and left will have eased the Meadows nerves as out of bounds the resting place. The provisional scattered the crowd as a ‘fore’ shout scattered the on lookers like wildebeest in a big game reserve with a predator on the prowl. The disturbance was nearly too much for Meadows and ‘Quiet Please’ was bellowed from down the fairway.
An approach found the second first cut inches off the green and a handshake from Horsey indicated a done deal. Trev nearly rescued a point with an exquisite chip from behind the green. Meadows played a brilliant chip across the green to 3 foot leaving an uphill putt which was left a foot short! But if you’ve got 2 for it!

Meadows - 4 up.

Emotional scenes indeed and handshakes all round with shades of 2005 as Meadows seals the deal with a terrific late season run of form matched all the way from TGS 2008 debutant Marriot, in a great finale.

With the matter of the days victor, Garland (37 B9:19) on home territory did just enough to oust Horsburgh Snr (37 B9:14) who will have rued the final green but been pleased with the overall performance. Another tie for 3rd - Young guns Wood (35 B9:18) and Naaman (35 B9:12) sharing the same score but with Wood victorious through a superior back 9.

Chef’s Pie and chips were promised at the champions feast but a heavy run on it at lunch meant it was hot beef cobs and chips which didn’t draw too many complaints from the assembled. Naaman 4 times having trouble when liberally applying the English Mustard and blowing his lid, too much amusement.

I should have remembered after the first time!

In true carry on fashion the drama didn’t stop there as 12 managed to depart the course, with unlucky 13 detained due to mechanical failure. Horsbugh Snr having problems with the electrics had to wait an hour for the recovery truck to arrive!

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Cotgrave08_results.xls

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Final_leaderboard.xls

Caption Competition

2008-03-31T23:50:00.000-07:00

Them Be The Rules

2008-03-31T23:49:00.000-07:00

In the event of a tie, the trophy and end of season prize money will be shared.

Prize Money

TGS Champion -£50

Runner Up - £30

Third - £20

Still plenty up for grabs with some ropey scores to be discarded in favour of a bumper round. For example;

Currently tied 8th, Mr Mark 'man in form' Hefter could jump to second with a 40+ point showing.

Cotgrave Masters

2008-03-31T23:48:00.000-07:00

'Originally built in 1991, Cotgrave Place Golf Club boasts two magnificent 18-hole courses that are set in over 300 acres of Nottinghamshire countryside, just 6 miles from the city centre. The Masters course was extended in 1997 from a 9-hole course, with a new nine designed by Peter Alliss. The front nine has recently undergone some major renovation and remodelling, and combines hedgerows and undulating fairways with large greens and water features.'

A testing approach to 17

The traditional end to the season sees the return to Cotgrave Masters for the grand finale. There is prior warning that the greens on the Masters are not in a good state due to winter preparation and unsuitable recovery conditions but it should not effect the all star cast.

This will be the fifth time on the Masters after a double visit in 2006. Our final four no exactly what they need to do and can be bouyed by past favourable course form. On all 4 occasions the average would be sufficient for Meadows to be victorious and on 3 occasions enough for Marriot, with ample scoring opportunities from someone to spring a late rally and scoop some prize money.

2005

A solid average of 31.6 for the group saw Hefter (40) victorious with a maiden win, Frame (39) and Ladd (37) made up the places. A front 9 high from Wood Snr (21) and back 9 high from Hefter (23) showing what's attainable.

2006

At the first time of asking, a tail between legs, A.T (41) took his 4th victory of the year with a quite sublime 72 gross after Billy Bandit (47) was disqualified! Dessaur (40) with his best TGS round and former tangerine wing wizard and Baker's brother inlaw, Hallam (40) finished brilliantly with the average a staggering 34 points. Hallam, Frame and Phoenix all equalling Woods front 9 record of 21 points.

For the second time round and finale it was Daft with another 40 point winning margin, followed by Tuckwell Jnr (39) and Doc Brown (39) where 5 people broke 80 gross: 73, 74, 76, 78 79. Daft (22) sneaking the front 9 record.

2007

Another big average of 33.1 points and yet another 40+ winning margin as Frame (42) produced another storming round (probably following a 22 pointer from somewhere or other!) Daft (38) once again featuring along with another who is no stranger to the Masters podium, Hefter (37). frame equalled Daft's front 9 record of 22 points.

2008?

Certainly the omens look good for big scores. Will it be from one of the big 4? 40 points certainly appears to be the standard for scooping the title. Even if the greens aren't up to usual accustomed standards the weather appears to be favourable.

http://uk.weather.com/weather/10day-Nottingham-UKXX0104

COURSE GUIDE - off the top of my head

The opening 9 (C) has changed dramtically over the last 4 years with millions of tonnes of top soil imported to add shape to a relatively bland 9 holes, although it is a great chance to get plenty of points on the board, with lots of short par 4's. Straight hitting essential if the rough is up. Greens are a good test due to many undulations and the size of them.

Hole 1: 3 wood / iron lay up leaving approx 120 yards in. Green reachable for the big hitters but trouble right.

Hole 2: Chance for big points, Par 5 easily reachable in 2 for bigger hitters otherwise a short pitch for a third and bizarrely stroke 5 or 6? 3 points minimum

Hole 3: 165 par 3, straight forward but heavily humped green tricky if pin out the apex.

Holes 4/6/7 short par 4's with the greens the only bother.

Hole 5: A no trouble par 3 sandwiched in between, large green the only problem and club selection.

Hole 8: Very tough par 3 (personally!) 160 yards with two large oak trees 10 yards before the green and a 15 metre gap between trees. Bit of luck required.

Hole 9: Long par 4 and stroke 3 or 4. Pond to the right of the green.

A steady walk across the car park totting up the scores and working out ehat the others have.

Hole 10: 90 degree dog leg right, big hitters can take the corner and a good chance for 3 points.

Hole 11: tough sloping shallow green with bunker infront, as lofted an approach as possible.

Hole 12: Maybe 220yd par 4, blind dropping down to the left - no real benefit fo having a pop with a well guarded green.

Hole 13: Steady par 3 with undulating green.

Hole 14: Long par 5, 3 good hits a lot easier with pin on the bottom tier.

GREAT FINISH

Hole 15: Dog leg left from elevated tee, low stroke index, good drive setting up a straight forward approach but water waiting for anything left.

Hole 16: 115 yd par 3 with shallow green. Complete touch shot - 90 yard carry to avoid getting wet. Anything over 120yds out of bounds in the field behind.

Hole 17: Stroke index 1 and a beast of a par 5 - building work has reduced it to a par 3. Plenty of shots but a 170 yard carry to a green 3/4 surrounded by water and usually into wind. Anything left is gone. Bunker short is a good option as is the bail out right!

Hole 18: Out of bounds left and right although a 200 yard tee shot will leave prime position in but a testy green to finish on.

MAY THE BEST MAN WIN!

Do The Maths...

2008-03-31T23:47:00.000-07:00

So, it all boils down to Cotgrave Masters on Sunday and it is possibly the closest run race since the innaugral 2005 season .

2005 'The Beginning'

'5 shots and less than a 1% shot average separated the top 4, and it was Baker who sneaked it by 2 from Hepburn, in an extremely tight and exciting finale that came down to the wire.'

With Baker out of it on 14 but with points in the bag, it proved too much for Daft who had to finally concede his challenge on 17, with a costly 3 putt. Hepburn was still in contention but required a tricky up and down from the back of the 18th but it was not to be. Frame finished with a powerful surge but too little too late.

R. Baker (216), C. Hepburn (214), R. Daft (213), P. Frame (211)

2006 'The Year of the Horse'

Once again down to the final round, and 3 vying for the honours: A.T with 4 victories over the season and severely in the handicappers grip: Daft, once again in the shake up and Horsburgh Jnr at his metronomic best. A 40 point haul for Daft pushed Horsburgh close, but 33 points from the latter was enough to see him home. A.T's 33 points off 5 as equally impresive.

J. Horsburgh (219) R. Daft (217) A. Tuckwell (215)

2007 'A Low Scoring Affair'

With only 10 rounds possible it was Tuckwell Jnr, who benefitted from Pistol Pete Dennis' absence at Cotgrave. 38 points from the latter would have sealed the deal helped by a monster TGS record of 47 points around Stanton, but the fixture computer was unkind.

S. Tuckwell (208) T. Meadows (199) M. Hefter (197)

2008?

With the handicaps having settled down it would appear likely that this could be the lowest scoring year to date and is definitely a 3, with the outside possibilities of a 4, 5 at a huge stretch, horse race.

A.T. (203) Has done all he can and will be reflecting in warmer climes on a beach.

T. Meadows (198) Has had the season of his life to date and is finally off single figures. A score of 31 points will leave him with the Claret Jug unless...

T. Marriot (198) Debut season and ever present, after a slow start has amassed some steady scores. Capable of big points and just needs to string it all together. 33 points would be the total required if Meadows falls short.

J. Horsburgh (189) A long outside shot with 42 points needed and other factors to go his way, but has felt 40+ points has been in the locker, unfortunately usually left in it, with the combination forgotten.

R. Daft (187) A troublesome season after an impressive opening salvo round Beedles, 38 points and the victory. The handicap has drifted out to 13 allowing more shots to play with. 46 points would be needed with other variables factored in. 40 points were amassed in the 2006 finale off a handicap of 10, so course form is assured.

Wee Know What You're Doing

2008-03-31T23:46:00.000-07:00

A.T Makes it Interesting as the 9 Hole Master Finds 18 Hole Form

2008-03-31T23:45:00.000-07:00

A new course for 2008, Birstall, very accessible - straight down the A46 and very mature, well over its centenary. An earlier call from Dessaur revealed concerns that there appeared to be well over 100 trees on each hole – that might not agree with his, or many others, expansive games.

With Tuckwell unaware of how many would be turning it up, it was a pleasure to see a dedicated thirteen congregate in the clubhouse. Meadows notable in his absence and A.T notable by his presence but perhaps wishing he wasn’t with his game at rock bottom. Chubb and Daft set the tone, tea for 2, with Autumn well on its way.

Welcome Back

Big 4, Chubb, hopefully becoming a full time Nottingham resident very shortly had the opening honours and duly carved one at 45º. No such problems for Horsurgh Snr and Marriot dissecting the fairway. 2 points all round thanks to Chubb’s powers of recovery.

Problems arose on the 3rd as the trio nonchantly teed off into the distance. Group 2 noticed the error and tried in earnest to reel them back, as hole 6 was being played rather than hole 3

Although in fairness there weren’t clear indicators…

Hole 3: 413 yard par 4
Hole 6: 531 yard par 5

Non-existent course information…

Has anyone seen the tee markers?

Finally back on track and now group 2! It was the former ‘rat catcher’ who kicked on through with a handsome 20 point 9 hole total. A good opening blast from Marriot boosted hopes of swelling his average and arriving at Cotgrave as tour leader, until a minor wobble approaching the turn, leaving Chubb with a 7 shot advantage.

Horsburgh Snr finally found some form on the back 9, still ruing the wrong turn: 4 points when played out of turn, 0 points when legitimate! Chubb was in fine position for another 36+ score with a shot down the reachable par 5 18th but decided to abstain. Still, another great finish and surely a contender next year with increased availability.

Marriot managed to accelerate after the turn and had equaled Meadows' 6 round average on 17 with an excellent nett birdie but suffered a similar to fate to Chubb with a hole too far, leaving Horsburgh the only one to finish strongly.

Not that I'm doubting your ability...

Dessaur, with Hefter expecting the worst, hit a beauty down the first and buoyed Horsburgh Jnr, who was adamant 40 points were on the agenda, until remarks about adding his last 2 scores together surfaced. Dean, injury free, made up the threesome.

Confident

A short tight course should have suited Horsey’s metronominc game and more points in 9 holes than his previous 18 backed up the claim, 3 nett birdies helping the scorecard.

It could only go one way for Dessaur after a tee shot of such magnitude, and so it was to prove but not without sparkles of intermittent brilliance and trying to distract Horsey at any given opportunity. Dean, ignoring the childish pranks as best he could, rose above it with consistency - just one no score up 3.

On to the back 9 and more of the same for Dessaur, this time swiping Horsburgh’s putter and claiming he left it on the last hole, raising the blood pressure. Clearly shaken by the shenanigans Horsey regrouped to finish strongly for his best finish for some weeks, leaving plenty of time to work out how to approach the back to back October golf weekends on the journey home.

Dean was another to fall foul of the 18th but finished with another 30+ total to add to the average. Horsburgh by 2.

Best turned out

Daft, with a whole new outfit, courtesy of a new for old insurance policy unveiled the clubs of the future - although I am not sure heeded the notice off the first…

Dilemma: Shall I ring / No phones allowed on the course... yes/no/yes/no...

Hefter, the reigning back to back 9 hole champion, was eager to test his stamina and go the distance along with everyones favourite ‘Wednesdayite’ - Hall.

Once again relentless from Hefter, three 3 pointers in the first 5 holes left him again as front 9 master for the third week running. Could he draw on his previous experiences to see it through?

Daft was struggling with the big dog and finding short and left the favoured destination, although only 1 no score on the front 9 showed good character.

Hall, still shaken by the Sheffield United scarf hanging in the proshop, couldn’t find the recent ryhtymn. Hefter by a whopping 7 shots.

It got worse for Daft, when questioned by Tuckwell on 12 as to the manner of his next shot, ‘just through the gap’ was the retort. ten, 100 year old oak trees in close proximity would have suggested that there was not much gap to aim for - Hall and Hefter rightly took evasive action – but were still nearly the target as wood was clattered.

Hall, having now added the consistency to his game through regular playing, produced the back 9 high of the day and a wonderful 21 points: a nett eagle on 15 always helpful and outright 4th in the tour standings.

It all boiled down to Hefter’s powers of belief and at the third time of asking duly delivered, but not before a minor scare. A nett eagle on 11, helped the 9 hole wizard to 31 points with 5 to play, the last time out not one further point was added. One point in the next two holes set the alarm bells ringing but 8 cigarettes back to back on the 16th tee calmed the nerves and a great finish for an excellent total. Well played.

Hoenigmann, ‘Titleist 4’ , was given the last slot, deemed needing the maximum time to repair, with last nights town outing still a hazy memory and was partnered by Radford and the Tuckwell’s. Tuckwell Jnr followed Chubb off into the wilderness and was to repeat the feat off the 2nd, for a double no score. Confidence was still high and especially so after quadrupling the score on 3. The third tree hit, resulted in the third ball lost and yet another blob but level par for the remaining 6 meant scoring was solid.

A.T powered one down the 1st as fingers were crossed and breath held as a 50 yard pitch was faced. The chance of it going at severe right angles extremely high, but with great character A.T. managed to find the front edge and keep the shanks at bay. Iron after iron past without a mere deviation, ‘tete trouble’ off the tee on 6 and 7 slowed the scoring but 9 holes were safely negotiated.

Radford was striking it brilliantly off the tee and was holing some crunch putts but was finding the rough heavy and the trees unforgiving.

Hoenigmann, unable to shake his splitting headache, revealed his powers of recovery were not as they were, but wouldn’t stop him testing them to the limit.

A.T. by 2.

A.T arrowed into to 3 foot on the par 3 10th, but the putt slipped by. Tuckwell Jnr took the 100/1 odds that he would hit the big tree on 11 and duly obliged, but for once didn’t lose the ball.

Hoenigmann was using the 7 iron to recover well from the rough, and started to use his eagled eyed partners excellently from the 11th: ‘Tiltleist 4? Titleist 4 Mike? You playing a Titleist 4? Here’s a Titleist 4. As the canny Scot tried his utmost to lose it on every tee but was unsuccessful!

Radford had another solid 9 with only one blemish and can be pleased with his days work.

Tuckwell Jnr lost ball number 4, after carting one way right into the back of beyond on 15 but remained composed to post a steady score considering.

But it was down to one man, having recorded 5 steady scores so far and in his last TGS outing of the year, a 30+ score would see the 2 horse race become 3. Thoughts a 3+ score would have been welcome; with a golf game that had been in tatters, rumours of a 3 point back 9 in Le Touquet, late night practice sessions and extra visits to communion, ok maybe not the last, but a game in disrepair nonetheless. A 3 putt on 16 didn't rattle the seasoned campaigner and absolutely joy as the 18th green was reached with not one shank, a testing 6 footer was rammed home to conclude an excellent round and the honours by 5.

Hefter (38) finally delivered after such promise and a barren year, and was accompanied on the podium by the delighted A.T (34 B9:17) and Chubb (34 B9:14) Hall (33) can once again be proud of achievements and signs the season off in style and Horsburgh (33) can be more optimistic of a strong end to the season with plenty of trophies still up for grabs.

FINAL OUTING: COTGRAVE MASTERS, 12TH OCTOBER @ 11.30

Birstall

2008-03-31T23:44:00.000-07:00

'Birstall Golf Club is one of the most established courses in Leicestershire. We are very proud of our heritage and traditions. The course is situated to the north of Leicester and enjoys magnificent views over the city, the hills of Charnwood forest, and to the east towards Rutland. Birstall Golf Club is 6239 yards long with a par and standard scratch score of 71 from the men’s competition tees and is a delight to play, providing a fair and exciting challenge to the golfer. There are superb greens and fairways with some very challenging tree-lined holes on a layout which is fairly easy to walk. The course and the facilities of the clubhouse ensure that members and visitors alike can enjoy a pleasant but challenging round and a friendly, sociable conclusion to their visit'.'

Course Guide
http://www.birstallgolfclub.co.uk/course.html

The Card
http://www.birstallgolfclub.co.uk/card_2.html

Breaking News

2008-03-31T23:43:00.000-07:00

After last weekends titanic back and forth tussle it looks to be down to a two horse race.

Before play Meadows held a steady 3 point average over Marriot with the worst scores to improve on a 25 and 26 respectively.

After 16 holes at Horsley, Meds was on 27 points and Trev 32 - advantage Marriot. With great composure Meadows closed with two nett pars to Marriots nett bogeys to reduce the deficit, 34 to 31 in Trev's favour, seeing Meadows lead trimmed to one shot.

But...

With the penultimate event at Birstall coming up Meadows released the following statement.

'I totally got my dates wrong and booked tickets to the British Masters this weekend so I won't be at Birstall. The pressure is on for Cotgrave. The doors are wide open again. Can my new found swing stand up to the task in hand...'

So, with Marriot confirmed for both of the remaining tour events, its a massive chance to steal a march. 27 is the magic number - anything more will see Trev take an advantage into the final round at Cotgrave Masters in a fortnights time.

Game On!

Buttress Bangs in the Birdies

2008-03-31T23:42:00.000-07:00

The largest sporting event of the day, behind West Brom v Villa and some other golfing event across the pond, saw a fabulous 15 revisit Horsley Lodge for the second time of the year; the first being interrupted by the most splendid thunderstorm imaginable. This time no mistake from the forecasters, with a magnificent afternoon drenched in belated summer sunshine.

Frame was eager to be off first as “Sal’s about ready to drop” and was accompanied by partners in crime, Buttress and Daft. The formers going through the usual handicap rigmarole of not having enough shots, ‘I was off 15 when I started… 19? 19? You’re having a laugh’ before being sent firmly on their way.

Daft was looking for a change of fortune with a new putter, unfortunately hadn’t bargained on it being part of a borrowed set of clubs as some urchin had rifled through the garage. Still, every cloud, the Bentley, Rolex, laptop, Ming vase and Monet were all on the insurance claim.

All tied through 4 before Frame chucked in the customary abstainers, Daft consolidated as Buttress stepped up a gear but the latter duo couldn’t be separated at the turn, with a creditable 18 point half way mark.

It was all about one man after the turn, who was hot, hot, hot. 19 points through the first 6 holes and 2 under gross with 2 to play was a phenomenal effort. With the signature stroke 1, 17th, and tough 18th to finish, 2 bogeys were a superb effort, level par and back in 25 points… ‘I shouldn’t be off 13…come on…13 never.’ You’re right about that Butty!

A great nett eagle on 15 helped Daft to his best score for sometime as Frame finished strongly and may be entitled to a shot back next outing!

The sight of Frame and co still in the bar despite finishing sometime earlier implied that child number 2 hadn’t been born, although when questioned, ‘I don’t know, I turned the phone off up the first’ was the joking retort…

The TGS top 4 found themselves grouped together, Marriot and Meadows joined by Tuckwell Jnr and a tremendously sock & t-shirt colour co-ordinated Hall, literally 45 minutes after landing at East Mids after a weekend away with the good lady, top work fella!

Wrap your head around this one… Hall banished all memories of last years round to forget, with a third of his 2007 points accumulated on hole 1, two thirds by the third and the total equaled on 6!

Tuckwell was slack round the greens with the putter not fully functioning, blame the tools. In contrast, Marriot was circumnavigating the fairways but rock solid on the baize and with plenty of shots in the bag composed a solid opening 9.

Meadows, off his lowest mark to date and iron off every tee, carried on from his Melton form and was 2 over through 7 with a procession of 3 pointers, water on 8, par on 9 concluded a group equaling 19 point haul to leave him tied with Marriot.

Two no scores for Marriot gifted the initiative to Meadows who then handed it back with a double hole meltdown and loss of swing. Hall was accumulating nicely with Tuckwell not quite being at the races, twice finding the water on 17 not helping and 40 putts not good enough.

Hall was ‘Matthewed’ on 16 as Tuckwell slipped into teacher mode; Hall not expecting that kind of talking to until getting home. Hall, attempting to carry a 6 iron 170 yards over the water from the rough, was told in no uncertain terms to ‘step away from the ball and put down your weapon!’ After a lengthy stand off a wedge was reluctantly accepted, 2 points better off and not one bit of water in sight!

Meadows regained composure as Marriot limped down the stretch, but still good enough for the group spoils and an indent into Meadows’ 3 point lead.

Dean and Horsburgh Snr, who arrived via Warwickshire courtesy of the sat nav, were paired with comedy duo of Dessaur and Jenkinson. After assertive and bullish pre-season claims of sweeping all before him Horsburgh, hampered by injury, started tentatively but found some 2 point rythym and a couple of nett birdies. Dessaur was the only other man to register further 3 pointers, as concerns for his fitness arose for the more arduous back 9. Jenkinson couldn’t get it going neither could Dean who found himself one behind the pacesetters of Dessaur and Horsburgh at the turn.

Things became more satisfying for Jenkinson with a strong finish as it became 9 holes too far for Dessaur. Dean held a 1 shot lead over Horsburgh and 3 over Jenkinson approaching the last, but back to back blobs let in Horsburgh for a morale boosting quartet victory.

Another man back from the wilderness, Hefter, current Horsley 9 Hole Challenge holder, Hoenigmann, Radford and Horsburgh Jnr brought up the rear, the latter keen to make up for a below par showing at Melton. Horsburgh Jnr was once again struggling, maybe the pressure of being the first double TGS winner causing difficulties.

Hoenigmann had a subdued yet solid start,: lost balls proving troublesome. Radford marked a fine return to the fray with a belting nett eagle up the first and finished the 9 with a solid 17 points.

It was left to Hefter to roar off the starting line unfortunately forgetting it was a marathon not a sprint and 18 holes comprised a full round and the pay out, not 9. 4 over par through 8 and 23 points, ruined by a solitary 2 pointer on 5, amidst a sea of 3’s, rubbish! Was sensational ,and the days 9 hole champion again…

It didn’t get any better for Horsburgh, the usual consistency lacking nor for Hoenigmann. Hefter’s 32 points with 4 to play was looking promising. 32 points after 18 a touch disappointing, and allowing Radford to power through. A solitary point on the 18th good enough for the big man to notch the group win on count back and fire his best round to date.

Buttress (43) proved unstoppable with a massive 9 point maiden tour victory helped by a superb back 9 effort. Marriot (34) made some in roads into Meadows’ tournament lead as Radford (32:B9 15) took third form Daft (32:B9 13) Hefter (32:B9 9).

A cracking afternoon at a cracking course.

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Horsley08_results.xls

Have Another Go...

2008-03-31T23:41:00.000-07:00

Ding, Ding, Seconds out Round 2: As the klaxon cut short the April attempt after a mighty storm rolled in with 12 holes no more than the lead group could muster.

The competition was cut to a 9 hole challenge admirably won by Gamston's own Mr Mark Hefter (20) with a whole host of players cueing up for a back 9 onsluaght, notably, Daft (18), Frame (18), Meadows (16)

With some big hitters once again confirmed it is likely to come down to the wire with a 36+ score needed for the title.

Numbers are limited to 16 with the 2.25 tee off making it touch and go with the light - 7.10 on a fair day. Quick play a necessity.

Confirmed:

S. Tuckwell, T. Meadows, T. Marriot, R. Daft, J. Dean, W. Dessaur, J. Horsburgh, M. Hoenigmann, M. Allen, W. Minchin, P. Radford, C. Buttress, P. Frame.

As it stands

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/As_it_stands.xls

Advantage Meadows

2008-03-31T23:40:00.000-07:00

Two four balls were the order of the day with Tuckwell Jnr recovered sufficiently from back problems, Horsburgh Jnr back from holidays, Hall back from honeymoon and Dessaur back on the scene, to accompany Meadows, Marriot, Dean and Daft.

Hall's new RS Audi was the talk of the town, the Aston chopped in for a family estate that has more toys than a small child. If you want to watch Notts blow the cricket - you got it! Want to break the speed of sound - you got it! Want to do 8 miles to the gallon - you got it!

With the sun shining it was Meadows, who had abandoned the early Stanton match to focus on the TGS season end, who got things under way, determined not to be rattled by Horsburgh, Hall and Dean. Rumours of 15 combined putts on the opening hole surfaced, setting the tone for some. But not for Meadows, who, driver tucked away, amassed a tasty 5 '3' pointers on the way to a 21 point 2 over par front 9.

Hall did his best to cling on to the coat tails with a consistent opening tally as did Dean, amidst foot trouble. Horsburgh suffered on the heavy fairways, proving as big a nemesis as his ability to play off a 'mat'. Hopes of the predicted 40 point bumper haul were soon put on the back burner with an estimated 40 putts on the front 9.

A remarkable feat for the quartet with only '3' blobs between the foursome, although it was all aboard the Meadows freight train and full speed ahead with a 7 shot cushion. Such was the extent of the glittering golf that any such sledging or barracking wasn't even contemplated.

Horsburgh could find no answers and registered a season, if not career low, in rather consistent fashion - only failing to trouble the card on two occasions.

Hall found form mid way through the back 9 to help post a solid 6th score to help the average, 9 points in 3 holes proving the inspiration.

Dean remained consistent in the wake of the trailblazing Meadows with 29 points through 12 , who despite a wobble through 13 and 14 showed character to finish strongly and post a formidable total and honours by 11 points, wow.

Tour leader Marriot was joined by Daft, Tuckwell Jnr and every ones favourite 'lefty' Dessaur - minus wallet, which was under the sofa after a quiet Saturday night...

'I went out for a few drinks... At 12 o'clock we were drinking shots with the owner of the Colonial...Got back and ordered a curry...left the car and front door open...fell asleep 5 minutes after making the call..woke up with a curry on the lounge table...how did that get there...doors closed and everything hazy!'

Tuckwell was out of the traps with monotonous consistency trying to ride the wave until it came crashing down and wiping out. 1 over through 8 and all calm... Dessaur's touch was deft - clearly summered well with the ladies but was having some 'tete' trouble on the approach so much so that Mondays golf was close to postponement with work the favoured option.

Daft was solid tee to green but was having a 'Horsburgh Horribulus' on the greens, shaving the holes from all lengths and unfortunately repeating frequently - much to Dessaur's amusement! Marriot couldn't get the swing going but was rock solid on the green in his customary slow start, awaiting the big finish. 'Tete' trouble for Tuckwell off 9 resulted in a lost ball and no points but carried a 5 shot advantage through the turn.

Dessaur decided to raise the stakes after slipping unnoticed into group second place at halfway despite his ball making a awful 'clonk' off the club face. It may say 'Worlds Greatest Dad' on it but I think it should be replaced... 7 holes later... I think I'll swap my ball.

With 4 to go Dessaur needed focus and set a target of 8 points, 2 holes later and 7 points better off golf Monday was back on the agenda!

Daft finally got it going with a class birdie nett eagle on 12 and 4 welcome points thanks to an Exocet 8 iron and a well converted putt and started to become aggressive with fairway wood in hand to post an impressive back 9.

Marriot was regrouping before the shock of a text filtered through, the initial surprise that it wasn't Dessaur's phone and the information that an uncle in law just dropped $150,000 in Vegas momentarily shook the momentum, before finishing well.

Tuckwell carried on grinding out the points thanks to some clutch putts and managed to surpass the highest score for the season standing on 18. After waiting 6 holes for a shot it all proved too much, misfortune followed by misfortune, honestly, resulted in a tumultuous tourettes eruption and a barrage of expletives, good job the hearts stable and there weren't any parents of Willow Brook kids around... apologies been sent and mirror looked in. 0 points scored in case that was in doubt...

Meadows (40) with another victory to his name, in a career shaping season, sealed a huge 7 shot victory and a handicap axe from, red mist, Tuckwell Jnr (33) and Daft (31). Dessaur (29) and Hall (29) both finishing creditably.

Meadows launches into pole and a 3 shot lead from Marriot with 3 to play and more importantly still two 25 pointers in the average.

Will the new handicap be a hindrance? Will Horsburgh find some form (if it's not too wet) Will A.T deliver in his one last outing? All will be revealed.

Leaderboard and permutations to the right.

http://http//tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Melton08_results.xls

Melton Preview

2008-03-31T23:39:00.000-07:00

'For more than 75 years golfers in the Midlands have enjoyed the tranquility and friendly company of Melton Mowbray Golf Club. Established in 1925 and set in rolling Leicestershire countryside, Melton Mowbray Golf Club welcomes golfers of all ages and ability levels to its easy-walking, 6279 yards, par 70, 18-hole parkland course. Straight hitting and careful course management will always be rewarded here as well as a deft touch around the closely guarded, but receptive, greens.'

Mmmh... All ages - Yes, all ability levels... Yes, easy walking... Yes, straight hitting... NO!

A view of some of the course...

http://www.mmgc.org/course.html

A 17 strong TGS contingent visited Melton for the first time in 2007 with 12 of the field separated by only 5 points. Doc. Brown (35) was victorious for his maiden tour victory, thanks in kind to his tangerine gripped Odyssey putter, and with it holding the course record, and the front 9 high of 19 points.

Frame (34) found himself once again nestled on the podium accompanied by Baker Jnr (33) who had an absolute storming back 9 – 2 over par and 22 points, for the record.

For the SAT NAV...

Melton Mowbray Golf Club
Thorpe Arnold
Melton Mowbray
Leicestershire
LE14 4SD

Fortune Favours the Brave

2008-03-31T23:38:00.000-07:00

Stanton-on-the-Wolds was the return after the Summer?!? break.

The scene of some exceptional golf, with last year 'Pistol Pete Dennis' scorching round in a mammoth TGS course record of 47 points including another record of 26 points, highest for 9 holes. McLoughlin holds the back 9 Stanton high of 23 points.

It is also the scene of the current TGS low but we'll leave it at that...

It's traditionally favours the ex/current Stanton contingent with course knowledge seemingly important, with 7 out of the 9 winners / places coming from the home grown players. Drury, Baker Jnr, McLoughlin, Meadows, Tuckwell Jnr, Alldred and A.T. all taking advantage. Frame and Dennis the others to feature.

With the forecast bleak and worsening and still many on holidays it was a brave 9 that braved the elements determined to make it round. Ex-Stanton legend and Bar Manager Dan Whitfield made his debut and return to the club and there was also a debut for one of Stanton's top juniors, and part of the McLoughlin clan, Paul Towle. Trev made it after a quick visit to Rudd as Buttress and Frame pulled up fashionably late in a classic motor. Tuckwell Jnr was there but only as secretary -a back injury causing the first none appearance of the season.

Meadows, Whitfield, Towle and McLoughlin got underway, amidst light drizzle, in a Stanton 4. Whitfield dusting off the driver after a 5+ year golfing absence proceeded to shape the most glorious drawn drive down the centre of the fairway - you don't lose it! and followed up draining a 15 footer on 2 for par.

Meadows started off reserved despite being surrounded by some propeller like club head speed from his partners, and soon resorted to waiting in turn for the greens to be cleared on Par 4's before bombing the baize. A tidy 2, on 2, got McLoughlin up and running before the latest addition to his bag was revealed: a Golden Bear driver - £1.20 from the car boot, which was launched massive distances. Drive, 8 iron to the 470 yard 6th setting up another birdie.

Towle seemed troubled by the rain and decided the best way to stay dry would be to take as fewer shots as possible so 'sh*t or bust' off the tee with a full blooded swing: A couple of birdies, couple of bogeys for a steady start. McLoughlin by 2 in a high scoring opening 4 ball.

The persistent drizzle took care of Towle, who was beginning to resemble the dulux dog with his shaggy main, the rain dampening his spirits. Whitfield's only rush of blood to the head came on 12 - losing focus round the green, when in prime position. 5 nett birdies and a nett eagle soon got things back on track for a quality return and a handicap reassessment!

Meadows, with no room for error, and once again the second round of the day, manoeuvred into position with an excellent nett birdie on 13 and 17. The temptation got the better of T1m VK and a final swish with McLoughlin's Golden Bear disappeared into the hedgerow and with it any points up 18... Still a solid round. McLoughlin with probably the best conversion rate, podium finishes and average on tour, cruised home with another 40 point showing.

Hoenigmann took advantage of the 'mates rates' buggy hire and was joined by Chubb and Marriot. A slow start by Trev around the field was followed up with an equally impressive finish to the 9 as the shoulders began to loosen - 3 out of 4 '3' pointers to conclude. Hoenigmann served up his usual bag of big scores and no scores - unfortunately slightly favouring the latter, free wheeling to the turn.

Chubb once again proved his consistent scoring and shot making ability with a very tidy opening 9. Birdie nett eagle up 6 and nett birdie up 9 giving him the halfway honours by 2.

Hoenigmann had a mid 9 flourish sandwiched between some abstinence as the bar and the light drew ever closer. Chubb couldn't quite find the rhythm until two nett birdies to close rounded off another excellent round, not low enough to avoid the handicappers axe!

Trev kept the revs high with chance to leapfrog into to top spot in the standings, with his closest rivals not travelling. Back to back nett birdies midway through the back 9 were followed by another to finish for a TGS personal high, and group leader. Well played.

Frame and Buttress brought up the rear and Frame launched a spectacular shot off the first, unfortunately it must have caught the wind...mmmhh... as it bounced off the changing room roof and hit Tuckwell's car - at the putting green side of the car park! Some shot. This may have set the tone for the round as 11 holes were managed before returning back to the clubhouse.

Buttress was having a steady round but maybe Frame was playing devils advocate with the lure of some wamth, a couple of pints, the football on the box- whilst still not having to be home for another couple of hours proving too much temptation and 11 holes completed.

Whitfield (42) Played 1 - won 1, opened his TGS account in style and will hopefully feature in the remaining fixtures. McLoughlin (40) never far from top spot produced another crushing round followed by Mariott (38) who catapulted himself into pole position on the leaderboard.

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Stanton08results.xls

The Business End.

2008-03-31T23:37:00.000-07:00

With 7 rounds completed and the mid-season break nearly finished, the race for TGS Champion 2008 hots up, with 5 events in 7 weeks, starting on the 31st of August at Stanton. A great chance to build momentum, consolidate and make the final move when the circus moves into to town at Cotgrave, on Sunday the 12th of October for the final shoot out.

AS IT STANDS...

Tuckwell Jnr:(Ave 30.33)

Last seasons tour winner and currently top of the pile, courtesy of playing in all the fixtures. Highs of 32 lows of 30 - Will struggle with a bumper score off a well handicapped mark and it will be suprising if he remains at top spot through October. Although is currently working on some swing tips from 'Butch Harmon' Meadows, each way a possibility.

Horsburgh Jnr: (Ave 30)

2006 Tour Champion, Not hit these dizzy heights but has completed some solid scores and can improve significantly with a 27 and 24 in the average. A non-runner at Stanton and yet to get the pass stamped for three consecutive weekends through September. Among the favourites.

Marriot: (Ave 29.17)

2008 debutant and Bondhay Winner. Powerful swing and capable of posting a big score with a touch more consistency. A 27 and two 25's in the average so plenty of areas to boost the scoring, likely to feature in the remaining fixtures. A couple of 40 pointers needed to challenge for the title but could feature in the places.

Daft: (28.5)

3rd ('05) and 2nd ('06) will be looking to go one better and all seemed on course after an opening day, 38 point, victory at Beedles. After the blistering start a succession of sub 30's hindered the progress although did result in a shot back on the handicap. It is on good authority that Daft is back on form. 4 scores will be needed to challenge but cannot be ruled out.

Radford: (25.17)

Improving with every game and with more course management and consistency will challenge, but probably a season to early. 2 good scores in the average and plenty of scores to discard. A non-runner at Stanton but will be suited to 4 games in 5 weeks. An outside chance of the places.

BEST OF THE REST...

Cooke (36 / 3 rounds)

2008 class act. Blitzing the field by 6 at Chilwell and following up with a win at Wollaton despite being cut 4 shots. Rumours of spectacular level par golf have surfaced leading to clamourings for further handicap reductions. The man to beat, but unlikely to complete his quota with imminent wrist operation due and child number 2 on the way.

A.T. (33.8 / 5 rounds)

3rd ('06) and North Shore winning team captain ('06). Capable of the sublime to the ridiculous and won more individual events than any other TGS player - including 4 in 2006. Well handicapped but finds it difficult to compete due to a hectic holidaying schedule. Initially ruled himself out of contention but managed to crowbar Birstall in (28/09) to complete his 6. No room for error, a score in the region of 36 points should set an imposing target.

Hall (30.8 / 5 rounds)

Producing the golf of his career and has improved with each round. Finally strung 18 holes together after a series of explosive starts. Capable of mounting a challenge if remains composed and keeps positive. Outside title shot and should be in the mix for a place.

Dean (30.7 / 3 rounds)

Senior member of the tour and struggling with injuries which may hamper any thoughts of the title or places. Solid player although availability unconfirmed.

Meadows (30 / 4 rounds)

Man of the moment and in the form of his life. Conversion rate of competitions entered and won at Stanton around 90% - including last Monday's Bank Holiday Competition (41 points) and winner of the last TGS outing at Morley Hayes (42 points) Can't afford a slip up and will need to post 4 solid scores of the remaining 5 rounds. The TGS record (47 points) could be on but so could a massive handicap reduction. No shortage of stamina with the TGS round usually the second 18 of the day.

Jenkinson (27.75 / 4 rounds)

Not one for consistency. Capable of scores at both end of the spectrum and will need 3 or 4 at the higher end to enter the fray. Has the short game and is nicely handicapped. Needs to improve consistency and score every hole to figure. Outside chance for the places.

Hoenigmann (27.75 / 4 rounds)

Most improved played 2007 and in possession of a dangerous weapon in his King Cobra driver. Capable of posting 36 points and above if it all comes together. Certain to be available.

Hefter (27 / 4 rounds)

Struggled to string everything together this year but is certainly capable. Found putting tricky and subsequently scoring. Had chance to regroup over the Summer break and should benefit from 5 rounds in 7 weeks. Long shot at a place, but potential for a course victory.

All information on what needs to be done can be found on the '2008 leaderboard' link adjacent.

Round 8 - Sunday 31st August @ Stanton @ 3pm

Top 10 Caddy Retorts

2008-03-31T23:36:00.000-07:00

#10 Golfer: "Think I'm going to drown myself in the lake."
Caddy: "Think you can keep your head down that long?"

#9 Golfer: "I'd move heaven and earth to break 100 on this course."
Caddy: "Try heaven, you've already moved most of the earth."

#8 Golfer: "Do you think my game is improving?"
Caddy: "Yes sir, you miss the ball much closer now."

#7 Golfer: "Do you think I can get there with a 5 iron?"
Caddy: "Eventually."

#6 Golfer: "You've got to be the worst caddy in the world."
Caddy: "I don't think so sir. That would be too much of a coincidence."

#5 Golfer: "Please stop checking your watch all the time. It's too much of a distraction."
Caddy: "It's not a watch - it's a compass."

#4 Golfer: "How do you like my game?"
Caddy: "Very good sir, but personally, I prefer golf."

#3 Golfer: "Do you think it's a sin to play on Sunday?"
Caddy: "The way you play, sir, it's a sin on any day."

#2 Golfer: "This is the worst course I've ever played on."
Caddy: "This isn't the golf course. We left that an hour ago."

#1 Golfer: "That can't be my ball, it's too old."
Caddy: "It's been a long time since we teed off."

Bad Etiquette - but funny

2008-03-31T23:35:00.000-07:00

Reports have shown that Tuckwell has been up to no good on his 6 weeks holiday. It appears that he will seek any method possible to retain his title.

http://www.jibjab.com/view/109293

Meadows Masters Morley

2008-03-31T23:34:00.000-07:00

On possibly one of the hottest days of the year thus far, a commendable 12 tackled Morley Hayes. Hoenigmann pushed his own boundaries of lateness to the very limit, setting a new land speed record whilst breaking both the speed of light and sound, on a hair raising trip from London. Meadows was holing out on 18 at Stanton with the convoy ready to roll and jumped in with spikes still donned. Tuckwell with usual organization, couldn’t for the life of him think who the 12th man was and was about to go tail between legs to the proshop before Daft arrived.

Radford, Jenkinson, Chubb and Tuckwell Jnr opened up, the latter with a birdie – so only one way to go from there then… The glass was half empty for Jenkinson with shots disappearing left but impressively tripled his score on 4 before doubling it on 5 (you do the maths! Answers on a postcard please) Chubb, for once, was off the pace, not the day to be running back for a reload, on 3, with the sun beating down.

Once again Radford’s good holes were very good with the putter in fine touch but couldn’t find the consistency from the fairways. After informing his playing partners on being up the right was favourable Tuckwell proceeded to hoik one left, out of bounds, for his only blemish in an otherwise steady front 9; and did a spot of fishing for Chubb who was faced with a treacherous bunker shot on 8. Jenkinson gathered momentum with a tidy 15 point 7 hole showing, with no mercy on the greens. Tuckwell by 2.

The back 9 was all about Team Chubb – with 11 points on the front 9 it was time to light the touch paper. Big 4 used the combined skill and wisdom of his playing partners to start to burn it up. 13 points in 4 holes was exceptional scoring, a 5 iron to 4 foot the catalyst on 10, propelling the Chubster up the leaderboard.

Tuckwell holed out on 10: thankfully Chubb was well positioned in the slip cordon as a bunker shot was thinned fiercely out the back of a trap and water bound before being taken comfortably about the throat region in one smooth motion. Sign him up Robbie!

Radford hit a purple patch of his own, with some of his best drives to date and put Tuckwell in the shade by brutally firing over the ditch on 14 when Tuckwell was ferreting about trying to show Chubb how to lay up: Chubb then proceeded to send one greenside.

Tuckwell’s round petered out with another ‘out of town’ and limped home with some ugly right to left swingers. Jenkinson suffered a similarly tame finish and couldn’t quite get it going with Chubb draining all the effort and attention with some Herculean scoring and the group honours.

The closing holes played out like some form of surreal comedy sketch with the conversation on the greens following a similar pattern

RC: Boys which way do you think this breaks? I reckon it’s outside right lip.
Boys: Chubb, it’s inside left if not straight.
RC: I’m going to hit it outside right anyway.
Boys: It’s inside left.
RC: (after holing the putt) I told you it was outside right!
Boys: You hit it inside left!

Hood, Horsburgh Jnr, Daft and A.T were the sandwich fillers with A.T. on record that Morley wasn’t one of his favourite tracks; despite a win and second in two TGS outings and opened with a nice nett birdie. 2 more followed in the next 3 holes to begin ominously. Daft also opened with a nett birdie and a tidy first few holes before starting to feel the heat.

Hood hit 3 nice shots to the first but just found sand and decided that it was so nice that he would stay in their for a while… .

Horsburgh and Daft both found one of the double ditches snaking across the 5th as A.T continued to sizzle in the sun. Daft removed a sizeable portion of the 6th green after a 3 stab while Hood finally found salvation with a par down 7.

Horsburgh was threatening but couldn’t find top gear as the heat began to take it’s toll. A.T became the target, quite literally on 9, Meadows sensing A.T was on fire launched one over the green on 9 into the ditch and near perilously close to the half way group leader, by an impressive 6 shots.

Horsey begun to mount his challenge with 12 points in 5 holes as did Hood who found consistency despite being in a state of fatigue. Daft appeared to be carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders and was disillusioned with his 5th short putt missed on 14.

Horsburgh finished like Tuckwell and Jenkinson before him – weakly, as A.T was saved a watery grave, by the sand, on 17 and duly capitalised. Daft was thankful for a shot back while Hood was thankful just to finish. A ‘it’s not one of my favourites’ T was certainly the leader in the club house with the TGS Morley course record.

Baker Snr, Meadows and Marriot were joined midway down the first by Hoenigmann. 13 points in 4 holes for Meadows was the dream start with rounds running out and a big score a must. Baker, with buggy, found the going tough and threatened retirement more than once through the opening 9 – The TGS low definitely the target to beat. As it was for Marriot who couldn’t find the usual rythym, and points hard to come by.

Hoenigmann slotted straight into his stride 18 points in 8 holes, the adrenalin still pumping from the ‘fasten your seatbelts’ white knuckle drive to the course. Meadows kept his foot firmly on the gas, a minor wobble on 6 was nothing, in a blistering front 9 to leave him clear by 4.

Baker could finally breath a sigh of relief on 13 with the TGS low safely surpassed. Marriot achieved it in one swoop on 11 with a terrific nett eagle, the first of 2 on the back 9, and used it as the catalyst for a superb 20 point last 8 holes. Hoenigmann was in need of refueling as the needle began to flit near to empty but just had enough gas in the tank to see him home.

With the engine still purring nicely after 4 nett birdies in succession Meadows set about the final stretch and coasted over the line possibly for the first time ever scoring on every hole – you’ve changed!

With all on the balcony Meadows anxiously totted up his total with A.T. safely settled down with pint in hand. A cagey few moments finally revealed that it was Meadows (42), and the new TGS Morley course record by one shot from A.T. (41) in an epic shoot out. Team Chubb (35) with an immaculate level par, 24 point back 9 total was the other podium place. Hoenigmann (31) finished well despite playing 17 holes!

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Morley08results.xls

Morley Hayes in Pictures

2008-03-31T23:33:00.000-07:00

Even Jenko's got to agree that the glass is not half empty! Although it was a second later

A.T signing off in style (although rumours suggest that there maybe 1 last appearance to sneak the 6 rounds in!)

The metronome, Horsey, demonstrating 'the claw'

Chubb - in deep concentration: 'I'm sure that putt was outside the right lip'

Horsey looking for this weeks US tour tips

Radford: ready for another pint and his holidays.

Jenkinson: finally finding the rythymn.

Big 4 striking a pose.

Who put that in there...

'In the hole' Radford sends one towards the tricky 17th green

Hood: 'No more please, I can't go on - I need water'

36 holes in 36 degree heat, some going!

30, 32, 35, 36, 39, 41...

Come on Barry try harder, I can only count 41 points I need another one...

A well deserved pint, for the champion?

2008-03-31T23:32:00.000-07:00

Sunday sees the return to Morley Hayes, and the Manor Course, after a year absence.

'This superb 18 hole, Championship length, par 72 course will continue to challenge even the most experienced golfer. It has been designed with tees of blue (6953 yards), white (6744 yards), yellow (6482 yards) and red (5902 yards). Morley Hayes offers the ultimate golfing experience, with excellent facilities for a complete 'get away from it all' package. Our location, sitting equidistant between the M1 and the A38, is ideal for visitors from near and far.'

I suppose the location allows a quick 'get away from it all' when it all goes pear shape!

View from the 8th green

The podium has a Tuckwell theme to it and with both in the field could it be three in a row?

A.T. will be looking to bow out of the season in style: a heavy holiday schedule during the latter part of the year conflicting with the tour. But would certainly offer more value than Tuckwell Junior value with a comfortable handicap mark, even though school's out for Junior.

2005 saw Tuckwell Jnr (37) scoop his maiden tour victory, joined by A.T. (34) and J. Brown (34) as the course offered up a miserly average of 30.9 points (7th out of 12 in difficulty)

In 2006 it was the turn of A.T. (33) serving up the 3rd of his 5 tour wins that season, which saw him cut to 5 in the process. Hepburn (32) and Hefter (32) managed to sneak into the each way places. 29 was the average points score - 8th of 14 in difficulty.

18 points round the front 9 is the record: S. Tuckwell ('05) A. Tuckwell ('06) M. Hefter ('06) 19 points is the back 9 record: S. Tuckwell ('05). With S. Tuckwell holding the TGS course record of 37 points ('05)

History shows Morley is not one for a bumper points score but with no one taking the initiative the claret jug is all to play for.

A.T, Tuckwell Jnr, Horsburgh Jnr, Hefter, Hood, Meadows, Hoenigmann, Jenkinson, Radford, Marriot +1, Baker Snr, Daft, Whitfield are all confirmed.

Meadows must be in with a shout. 3 consecutive rounds under 30 has seen the handicap mark drift up to 14, whereas the Stanton handicap is down to 11 after winning Captain's Day - 45 points better ball stableford.

Horsburgh Jnr will be looking to post a sizeable mark with some consistent scores in the bag already. Daft will be looking for a return to form after one of the best rounds of the season so far at Beedles Lake.

It's all to play for.

http://www.morleyhayes.com/manor.asp

The Belfry by Numbers

2008-03-31T23:31:00.001-07:00

Two of the TGS heavyweights locked horns in a birthday shootout around the PGA National at the Belfry, courtesy of a generous 30th birthday present: a round for two for Meadows. Tuckwell, with a little bit of time on his hands, didn't need to be asked twice when the invitation arrived.

A steady hours drive up the M42 and a spot of lunch before hitting the range to get the most out of the experience, and not being made a fool of on the testing course... The conditions were blustery, similar to Birkdale and the sun blazing in the clear blue skies.

Textbook in the nets, straight and accurate, what could go wrong... Well the 220 carry over water, into a force 10 gale on 4 didn't help for a start...

The pair contempleted playing off the whites as the yellows were a meagre 6,153 yards before the starter implied that the yellows would provide ample test!

Fear of the unknown, reputation of the course, nerves, testing greens, the money at stake (£1 to the winner) or just simple c**p play! may have contributed to an indifferent opening 9. The greens were slick and true and gives some indication as to the toughness pro's face - anything above the hole racing past, anything off line - punished or wet.

Tuckwell was consistent with 5's and 7's (dreadful!) as Meadows found the driver difficult to control. Tuckwell by 3 as the aim became try and shoot in the 90's!

New 9, new start, as the groupings started to pile up and there became a wait on each tee. The duo decided to make a conscious effort to add to the 3 pars recorded on the front 9. It all started well for Tuckwell before 4 lost balls in 4 holes (only 1 was my fault, the rest were from decent shots, honest) ended any realistic hopes of a decent score despite playing fairly well. Meadows on the otherhand played astute and tactical golf, leaving the big stick in the bag when danger threatened and fantastically closed with 7 straight pars for a 4 over 39 gross back 9, quality and 90 broken. This was played out with the Hollingwell Ladies Captain over the closing few holes after it became unbearably slow, although a free round wasn't forthcoming despite obvious small talk!

Meadows full of optimism, and a pound better off, can firmly set his sights on a Morley Hayes victory especially playing off his TGS mark of 14, rather than club mark of 11.

0 - tip left for lunch (pence)

1 - Prize Fund (£'s)

2 - Number of players

3 - Pars registered on the front 9.

4 - Balls lost by Tuckwell on the back 9

5 - Amount of triple bogeys recorded

6 - Balls lost between the pairing

7 - Straight pars to finish Meadow's round

8 - Number of 5's recorded by Tuckwell on the front 9

9 - Number of double bogeys on the card

10 - Green bottles sitting on the wall.

30 - Cost of lunch! (£'s)

2008-03-31T23:31:00.000-07:00

Hall Stag, Puerta Banus, June 27th -30th.

Hepburn got the ball rolling with a 7.30 Gamston pick up, to kindly escort Tuckwell, Horsburgh and Hefter to East Midlands, and meet up with the other 10. Tuckwell had some early bag issues, the wheels not suitable for the terrain from airport to terminal and ended up carrying.

Straight to the front of the queue and formalities exchanged, £12 to check the bags in a bit of a shock, apart from Hepburn, who was above the law. The usual beeping and frisking ensued through check in. Tuckwell obviously catching the eye of the male attendendant, who didn't quite go as far as a full body search.

With the time barely 8.30, Tuckwell and Horsburgh filled their boots with a large fry up before joining the party, and countless other knuckle dragging ameobas, in the airport bar - please don't be going to Puerta Banus! A couple of liveners, as you do before 9.30, eased the nerves of the non-fliers.

Take off was without hitch and the refreshments soon arrived. Hefter wondered if they were actually catching the pig, for his bacon sarnie. Hepburn provided the confectionary as the temperature of the destination was relayed from the flight cabin: hot, hot, hot.

All bags accounted for off the carousel, although Horsburgh suffered his first setback, some obvious heavy handedness causing a buckled wheel and significant case damage, sure to cause some wrath on the return to Saltby Green.

Alleged police activity on the roads, caused a delay in the minibus, so all ahead to the airport bar for some strong lager - great... Not the time to be waiting with thousands of tourists so a pre booked minibus just the ticket. The 45 minute transfer proved tricky for some with a make or break next couple of hours coming up. A cracking hotel and the 5th floor for the TGS boys. A steady view with a sizeable palm tree, that Tuckwell measured he could leap of faith into, why?!?

Down to the pool to release the tin foil bodies to the world, and tuck into some San Miguels. Stats' went off to do some networking as Horsburgh debated how Hefter could be launched into the pool, invariable using Tuckwell's long levers.

The gamblers could resist no longer, with the call of Vinny Samway's sports bar across the road and the thought of swelling the kitty whilst Notts tonked Youuurksherrrre in the 20/20. Great plan on paper... 80 euros later of screwed up betting slips and an abject performance by Notts, greatly enjoyed by the stag and best man, the strength of the gin measures began to sink in.

10pm was the agreed meet with the rest of the party as the TGS quartet bolshily hit the front at 7.30, very cock-a-hoop. Food was the order of the evening, as even if eating maybe cheating (whoever made that up!) the alcohol needed absorbing. The Red Pepper was the resting place on the harbour front, as all the beautiful people and high rollers sauntered by and sidled round in their flash cars, again and again and again...

Chris, do you think I can hit that clown with this bowl of olives?

Lobster, prawn cocktails, steaks, lamb and beer were all greatly accompanied with some vino and more beers in a most leisurely of evenings, until Horsey took great offense to the pillock at the table next who wanted a paella and wanted it NOW, before being obnoxious and asking to be moved just as his food arrived. With Horsey completely riled, 'knobhead' rang out frequently through masked intervals as olives began finding their way to its intended target. Tuckwell hit the wall.

It was maybe not more than 9.30 as the bedgraggled foursome hit the weary route back to the hotel, vision blurred, tail between legs and snaking all over the road... to be tucked up before the agreed 10pm meet! It's all about pace...

Tuckwell did manage to wake up at 2, and promptly locked himself out on the balcony trying to cool down from the sweltering room temperature, as the palm tree began to look more and more makeable. The disturbed sleeper was up and out again at 4 in search of water, the vending machine not accepting a 1 euro coin a mighty blow as the failure to be completely prepared finally sunk in. 3 more restless hours were recorded before a banging headache could be contained no longer and up and out in search of H2O. The strays were still trapsing in as the ladies of the night were still in inquisite nature for one final score. A garage, a mile out, provide salvation as the vendng machine began working on the return! The quartet then realised that the air-conditioning in the room worked when the doors were closed which would also shut out the noise of the M25!

Still, a 10 hour kip, and all steam ahead for a full powered day. Pool side beckoned, just space in between a sea of towel laden sunbeds and prime spot to decide what story to concoct to the others, as to the evenings no show. Not necessary as the first trio arrived informing a 20 minute power nap at 9 o clock lasted til 3am and a similar no show. The 10pm TGS wipeout seemed in good keeping especially backed up with the vast amount of euros spent. Hall looked in fine fettle, from a 4 o clock return as 2 were still missing in action. At 2 euros a pop for San Miguels, the pool bar seemed the option as the remainder of the party hit the heights of the Ocean Club with Cheryl and Ashley Cole.

Horsburgh and Hefter regretted the hotel breakfast as 10am was the first livener of the day. Some fascinating sights were witnessed as the midday sun grew stronger and Horsey applied liberal amounts of the factor 50. Sun, thou shalt not pass. Hepburn reached for the Hawaiian Tropic. The mood was bouyant, directly linked to the beers consumed. Tuckwell was on beer carrying duty and could feel the weight of expectation on his shoulders, with everyone poolside baying for a stacking. A group of rowdy ladies were having an arm wrestling competition in the small pool along with the sole male representative Craig. Hepburn's cover story of a group of hairdressers with Craig being the camp crimper may have been close, as Craig ordered up a couple of Sherries in the sweetest of sweet voices.

Horsburgh and Hefter had seen enough, not before Hefter spilt his first claret of the weekend scrambling for a thrown lighter which ended up in the pool after a comical juggle. Tuckwell and Hepburn, engaged in a bit of small talk to the hens opposite and delighted that Hall had not agreed a similar 'Fame' themed evening!

Horsey and Hefter were turfed out of bed and once again down to the harbour with food the priority. The garcon was a little taken a back with Hepburn and Tuckwell's burger for starters and extra chips with the lasagne main, but returned for empty plates. Horsburgh was a little disappointed with his breaded veal which resembled more of a breaded shin pad, much to the others amusement. Blood began to boil with the procession of tourist clamouring to have their pictures snapped with the parked up glamour motors, Tuckwell vowing to return with the Fiesta and parking her up! Deja vu once again with a 10pm meet on the horizon and the horizon looking decidely bleary, so a 2 hour siesta was agreed, to the frustration of Horsey.

The remainder of the party had booked in for a curry as the TGS boys reintroduced themselves and settled into to an adjacent bar for some liveners. Altogether for the first time at 11.30, it was time to hit the front. Sinatra's was the outdoor resting place as the first champagne was uncorked and stories relaid. The clamour for Navy bar proved consensus: in essence a tidy bar with dance music and flashing lights with a twist - wall to wall hookers. It was probably somewhat of a suprise to the ladies as possibly the first ever blokes to come and use the place to bust some moves on the dance floor while observing the scenery. Conversation was down to a minimum. What's your name? Where are you staying? Do you wanna F........ Once the message, of not tonight was relaid, interest was turned elsewhere, as time is money! A better showing from the TGS massive with the promise of a life on the ocean waves at 10 the next day. 3.30 was seen by Hepburn and Tuckwell with a 'pizza cardboard and cold jockeys' consumed on the way back.

The legend that is, Mr Matthew Hall, very kindly chartered a yacht, and what a yacht! for Sundays entertainment. Zinedine Zidane the last occupant, class. Amusement started harbour side with the group one by one having to leap 2 foot onto a moving gangway, to board. Especially difficult when you can see three! Horsburgh crawling on was the highlight. With Raul, skipper, and glamourous assistant serving drinks on the beckoning call it was champagne popped from 10. A full powered cruise to moor up off Nikki beach was the order of the day. Horsburgh struggled with his sea legs and was quoted saying he would prefer flying but was not the worst of the party. Things got worse for Jason as he knelt on his glasses breaking the hinges and was seen scrabbling on the deck for the missing pin!

A beautiful 45 minute motor through the waves was followed with a cooling dip before being transported via speedboat to shore. Hefter took another one for the team, leaping out before being buffeted by the boat and grazing the majority of his upper back. Dinner was chewed through, burgers once again the order, as a couple were found head in hands. Tuckwell was amongst a fivesome who swam back out to the yacht dodging jetskii's. Hefter was targetted once again on the return; this getting hit square on the arse cheek and lifted 3 foot out of the water. The San Miguels, and Evian, were uniced as Shackers showed his handy camera work. It was all too much for the 'Sisters of Sleep' - who caught up on some shut eye. Tuckwell went for once last float in the ocean before taking a jellyfish sting on the ankle and splashing around like a demented maniac to get out of the water. Raul prescribed Pi$$, but there were no takers with it difficult to reach for Tuckwell. With the red bits starting to become more angry it was a return to harbour after an absolutely fantastic day and probably never to be repeated for the majority.

The small matter of the Euro 2008 final lay ahead with the Country gripped in Spanish fever. The Sports Bar was again frequented and the usuals served up. A monster pizza was ordered as the first half was viewed amongst a sea of red and yellow. Tuckwell had to head for the airport with school beckoning, paying to check the bags still causing bitterness, as the rest of the party hit a traditional Spanish bar in town. Spain erupted as the final whistle blew but it was all to much for Hefter and Horsburgh, the latter fearing another onset of'Eindhoven Flu' and staggered for an early night with triple vision firmly installed.

Tuckwell had a cramped and uncomfortable, head lolling flight back but returned safely into the early hours and 4 hours kip before school.

Hepburn kicked on with the spirits flagging before another belting gesture of generosity. With the VIP area of a swanky bar accosted, it was ice buckets of beer, champagne and fireworks, actual fireworks, every time the manager raced through the dance floor with the order, to the bemusement of everyone else. On all accounts a perfect end to an exceptional weekend!

Caption Competiton

2008-03-31T23:28:00.000-07:00

Duffin's Hangover Cure

2008-03-31T23:27:00.000-07:00

The curse of Norwood struck once again; a cracking venue that doesn’t appear to fall on an availability friendly weekend: Christenings, holidays and a KCC foray into the cup restricted numbers to 8, although it was looking like 7 as Trev somehow upstaged Horsey's usual directional efforts, making the tee just in time.

Dark glasses were the order of the day with half of the party out until the early hours on Hall’s Nottingham based stag. The bacon sandwiches devoured appreciatively and sufficiently higher quality than the Donner catbabs consumed less than 8 hours earlier.

With the buggies juiced and wets the order of the day it was Meadows, Tuckwell Jnr, Hall and Masters who opened up. Meadows unveiled a new monster driver; the sound of which parallels Hoenigmann’s King Cobra; and duly delivered 3 points up the first. A watery approach to 6 was recovered brilliantly with a cute chip.

Hall, made a laboured start, usurprisingly as the memory failed to recollect much after 3am. Meadows seemed destined for 18 holes of skidding the buggy to a standstill until he was inches away from rolling it on 3, having to abandon the vehicle mid donut. Designated driver status was resumed after!

All smiles now that the four wheels are back on the ground

Tuckwell managed more 3 pointers than in his previous 3 rounds as the greens remained true but slow. Hall found ‘Bondhay form’, helped by some sensible advice; rather than trying to carry a 200 yard lake, through a narrow opening, off a tight lie, with a 3 wood.

Masters was striking the irons well but couldn’t launch the woods – an iron off 9 found rhythm and a sign of things to come.

Hall regretted ditching the bottoms in favour of the waterproofs as the sun began to beat down. Offering to play in his boxers could have had serious repercussions for next weeks wedding and didn’t fancy the follwing conversation to the fiance.

‘Hello dear, did you have a good hen weekend? Unfortunately we are banned from our wedding venue because I played golf in my grippers…’

Hall once again in pole, by 2, as the storm closed in. 10 was completed before the heavens opened and the lightning let rip. The quartet reasoned that the buggies were earthed and were determined that there would be no chance of another mid round withdrawal. A 15 minute gathering of thoughts before onwards and upwards and a plan devised to keep Hall on the points trail.

Are you sure that's legal?

Meadows found course management difficult; frequent lost balls not condusive to good scoring. Tuckwell scrapped about accumulating points in an untidy manner; converting birdies to bogeys may have sealed a place on next weeks F-word.

One is not amused...

Masters finished strongly but it was all eyes on Hall, hoping to see it through after Bondhay’s capitulation. It was getting twitchy as the driver was unsheathed to provide the answers, before Tuckwell hit teacher mode and banished back to the depths of whence it cam, before a ball was struck in anger!

Hally wary of another telling off, contemplates the 5-wood option.

Some tidy play round the green and a brilliant last hole ensured a great round, personal best and comfortable group accolades with a imposing 36 points.

Shares in American Golf hit the roof with Duffin back in town, new driver, bag, brolley and balls all purchased. Shorts were donned with the head in a similar state to the Chilwell venture. At least it wasn’t 30 degrees of pure beating sun!

Smiles on the outside, turmoil on the indside.

Marriot, AT and birthday boy, Vin, minus phone – maybe lost when mesmerized by the delightful blonde in the Living Room, concluded the four. Duffin, concentration wandering possibly back to the high quality of female occupants the night before, found the new driver proving wayward and balls started with, significantly reduced. Vin bagged a great nett eagle on 3 as Duffin finally registered. Water was found on 6 after a powerful 2nd, but a neat recovery helped keep momentum.

A.T was off to a blinder, possibly due to a well tapered weekly schedule, before stalling with a double ball loss on 8, parity was restored up 9. Trev was hit or miss with 3’s or 0’s but was well in contention for back to back victories. The birthday boy was losing patience with chipping but maintained composure with a 1 point half way advantage.

Duffin was on fire through the turn, caressing the driver enormous distances down the fairway, amassing 14 points in 5 holes. A brief wobble up the stretch was remedied with a glorious birdie up the last, an exquisite lob was finished off in front of the galleries.

A.T. gave the impression that the wheels had fallen off with swishing in the rough and growling. The wheels literally did fall off with the senior players' buggy struggling for power up 15. Duffin, the lightest member of the fourball, took the wheel with Vin pushing and the big guns walking.

Vin finished strongly after tree trouble on 13; the ball ricocheting firmly out of bounds after trying to fire through the eye of the needle. All appeared done and dusted in the car park with Duffin ousting Vin by 1: 35 to 34. 20 minutes later and the light fading… a recount saw Duffin still by 1 but with 37 to 36 advantage?!? The big hitting Irishman failing to realize the last was a par 5 and Vin’s generous maths calculations…

After last years Norwood shambles; paying out on Hefter when it was Meadows who had succeeded, the scores were carefully assessed. 8 for 3 for 6 was amended leaving three tied on 36 points… and Duffin back on tenterhooks…

A superb high scoring octet once again enjoyed the delights of Norwood and it was… Duffin (36: B9 22) who was victorious over birthday boy Vin (36 B9 17: B3 7) and groom to be, Hall (36: B9 17: B3 6). All three having the games of their promising TGS careers to date... and a shot docked in the process. A.T (34) consolidated as Marriot (32) followed up solidly from his Bondhay victory.

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Norwood08results.xls

Meadows Gets in on the Act

2008-03-31T23:26:00.000-07:00

More success on the back of Hefter v Horsburgh, as Meadows sees the profit to be made and scoops his first win. Hold on to your hats... a £1 each way bet on Robert Karlsson in the US Open banked a wholesome £9.25 return. Steady now... It is unconfirmed as to whether it will be used to purchase some 'Poulteresque' trousers to accompany the headcover!

100 up as Marriot Maintains Composure

2008-03-31T23:25:00.000-07:00

Another tough day past junction 30 as the full force of Bondhay once again proved unforgiving, as has been accustomed to. Plenty of challenges were mounted before being spectacularly derailed. A tidy 10 on board, with Meadows, once again providing some more TGS firsts. Personalised golf balls and the first WAG to accompany the tour. Fellow members noting on the significant upgrade of choice of caddy! A.T on his 7th day straight had the mid week sighter and was hoping for significantly less visits to the sand. Optimism was clearly high with Tiger’s ‘Sunday Red’ the colour of choice.

An ideal Father’s day present: golfing with your Dad, as Marriot joined the Tuckwells’. Tuckwell Jnr had the honours amongst ‘lack of hat’ barracking and duly waited for the 3 ball in front to disappear out of range… before impressively… topping it 15 yards into thick rough behind a tree. A 3 stab on 2 concluded a ‘great’ start! Marriot started as he meant to: Flying pin high with an 160 yard fairway bunker approach, and all aboard the 3 point train. A.T found momentum on 5, with a very tidy nett birdie as Marriot became unstuck with frequent visits to the sand: 3 bunkers, 5 times - some feat on 6. An unfortunate right angle stopped A.T. concluding the front 9 strongly, but held a solid 2 point advantage. Amen corner proved troublesome once again for Tuckwell Jnr – 1 point through 3 holes not the ideal way to score well, lost ball, bunker, top - not to be encouraged. A.T found water on 11 – all over it but lacking legs. The Christmas present came in handy scooping out numerous others from the drink. Marriot decided against visits to the sand and instead plotted the most effective route to the hole: 14 points in 5 holes in full support of course management. A.T took advantage of one scuttling down the path when O.B. seemed the final resting place, and hung in with some tidy approaches. Tuckwell Jnr started to rebuild, 1 over for the last 6. Definite interest and tidy sum would have been pocketed if that had gone on eBay! With the round nudging an arduous 5 hours, it all proved too much for A.T. as fatigue set in. Marriot impressively remained calm, with the absence of Horsey, to post a group winning total.

Triple H: Horsburgh Jnr, Hefter and Hoenigmann. The usual from Hoenigmann: a full house of 0-1-2-3 and 4 pointers. Hefter, consistent on the greens, couldn’t find the consistency and regularity to them. Horsburgh once again steady, high on fairways hit and scoring on every hole of what was a well crafted front 9, for a one shot lead. A new nine and out with the jellied treats. The sugar rush gave Hoenigmann an immediate boost but proved too much for Hefter who sensibly laid up short of the water before thinning the next one in the drink. More disaster on 11, after Hefter chipped back into the water and no points. Horsburgh fired a couple of 3 pointers to sit pretty with the final stretch approaching. Karma may well have reaped its revenge as rumours of Meadows on the charge came filtering through. Horsey, as only he knows how, in turn relayed that he was on 30 points through 14 holes, the truth being some what lower! Dreams of a 5,5,6 finish would have secured a tidy finish but 3 points over the closing 5 holes may well secure an appearance on next weeks ‘My name is Earl!’ Hefter closed with some form to allow a glimmer of hope, as Hoenigmann was just glad to finish, after Saturday’s ‘Proludic Relay Challenge’ 6k row, 2000m swim, 20k run and 12k cycle. Baker Jnr apparently unable to attend…

The final four (five): Radford, with Tiger like knee damage, Daft, Hall, Meadows and caddy Liz. Radford and Hall faired best on the opener, keeping calm for a nett birdie. Daft, struggling for form, after Monday’s round at Beedles, has yet to return to the highs of the opening day win and had one eye on a handicap increase. Disaster for Meadows, 2 points through 3 – the course not long, or wide, enough for the big hitting birthday boy - celebrating the big 30. But it was to prove the calm before the storm: 1 over for the remaining 6 holes, culminating in 16 points in the process. Not to be overshadowed Hall produced the 9 of his life, with a monstrous and magnificent Bondhay front 9 record breaking score of 22 points – even containing a 1 pointer. A potential secret to the success may have been the realisation that wearing a glove, for the first time, actually allows you to grip the club better… Other revelations to do with glove wearing / Michael Jackson antics were quickly retracted! Hall stayed on target through amen corner. Radford’s nett eagle on 10 caused elation, 2 balls in the drink on 11, deflation. Meadows was cranking it up through 13 before a group ‘5 hole wipeout’. Whether it was Horsburgh’s fake total or the length of the round, the quartet totalled 8 points in the last 5 holes to extinguish any thoughts of a title. Hall joined A.T. and Frame in the illustrious ‘men capable of firing the best and worst 9’s of the day category!

Despite the duration and toughness of Bondhay, another enjoyable round on a very good course. For the first time ever the average strokes topping 100 (100.2) The average points made as equally unforgiving reading with 26.4, surely confirming it as number 1 ranked course on tour for difficulty.

Marriot (33), in his 4th outing, claimed his maiden tour victory with an impressive 4 shot victory. The prop forward’s shoulders swinging well and kept it going down the stretch. Playing partners Tuckwell Snr (29) and Tuckwell Jnr (28 B9:14) made the rostrum ahead of what surely could have been for Hall (28 B9:6) Horsburgh Jnr (27) and Meadows (25) – carding a spectacular 7 birthday blobs.

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Bondhay08results.xls

Caption Competition

2008-03-31T23:00:00.000-07:00

Chubb Joins the '5 point' Club

2008-03-31T02:32:00.000-07:00

Quite an achievement, 5 points on one hole. The equivalent of 3 under par or an albatross. A rarity in the professional game and indeed amateur game but achievable nonetheless.

A spectacular gross eagle with a shot, on the par 5, 6th hole, at Stanton-on-the-Wolds, stroke index 8 was the scene of this rare occurence from Mr R. Chubb alias Big 4 and Ratty.

He joins an exclusive band of TGS members who have achieved the same feat over the last 4 years.

B. Baker - 15th at Six Hills - 2006

M. Hall - 3rd at Springwater - 2006

R. Horsburgh - 12th Wollaton - 2006

A. Tuckwell - 7th Ramsdale - 2005

A. Tuckwell -1st Springwater - 2006

Meadows Launches Latest Accessory

2008-03-30T09:14:00.000-07:00

Financially sound if you are Horsburgh Jnr. For every one else leave your name, address and prepaid envelope at the proshop...

Third Time Lucky...

2008-03-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

Bondhay's par 72, 6807 yard championship grade course offers a superb test of golf for players of all abilities.The course is maturing, breathing and enhancing the surrounding countryside and boasts glorious panoramic views of the Chatsworth and Dukeries estates that sprawl around it's border.Undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers and tight green necks characterise the course, and of particular test are the cunning water hazards found on 4 holes.

Bondhay / Bondi - a shed load of sand either way with over 260 bunkers carefully placed to capture any loose shots. The third appearance on the tour and notoriously difficult yet enjoyable, which ever way you view it, and perhaps responsible for the reduced numbers, with Frame already vowing never to return after 2007's 'horribilus'!

Ranked 1 in difficulty in both 2006 and 2007 offering an meagre stroke average of 99 and 98 and 27 and 26 points respectively. Third time lucky, I say. Ladd (15) and Atkinson (15) both felt its wrath in 2006, the 'TGS Low' ominous before a strong finish. It also claimed the first TGS mid round withdrawal - Hepburn the casualty with 'weak wrists'

One man has tamed the beast and is among the riders. A.T. (39) showed complete disregard for the bunker placement and tore it apart with precision / bludgeoning drives in 2006 whilst most others worried about laying up and placement. Also getting a 'Daftesque' midweek sighter on one of his many golfing holidays. Over golfed may be a factor! Rymer (36) '06 is the only other man who has threatened as 32 points looks like a good score.

9 at present: Tuckwell Jnr, A.T, Meadows, Daft, Horsburgh Jnr, Hefter, Marriot, Radford and Hoenigmann. 3 tee slots have been booked and it would be good to edge towards 12.

See you Sunday - prophecising that this is the time to conquer Bondhay, hmmm...

Hucknall Monopoly Continues

2008-03-28T12:43:00.000-07:00

Tuckwell got one thing right when promising a sun soaked, high points scoring evening – ‘soaked’. Once again fairly lucky with the weather, a brief shower through the turn brought out a selection of brollies but nothing more, although it made the already heavy rough, even heavier.

As group by group made it back to the clubhouse; time in the rough could be equated to the water mark on the trousers. Dean and McLoughlin probably joint winners, just below the knee cap.

There was bacon to fuel the 17 although the caterers did create unnecessary panic as minutes to tee time ticked by without any produce arriving, a rather flustered lady trying to determine her a**e from her elbow finally delivered and with problem averted and all safely departed to the tee.

Cooke, A.T and Hoenigmann had the days honours with Cooke swinging better than Jimmy Anderson, but it was the touch round the green that proved the difference, with everything from anywhere be holed. The old putter begging for one last chance, with a new one having just been purchased and at this rate heading straight onto ebay. A 25 yard bunker shot that pitched twice, and span back to within inches of the pin on 13, showed class and indicated another handicap cull. A.T. possibly one of the only men, other than Framey, capable of combining the best and worst daily 9’s of the day managed to do so. Lost balls were the order of the day in an error strewn front 9. Into the pits, and a change to wets, saw an instant impact and a motor up the leaderboard. Hoenigmann, clocking up more miles on the road as the weeks go by, couldn’t find his usual rhythm and the driver not striking its usual tune. A nett eagle on the 4th was to be the highlight in a tough afternoon, although the smell of lager drifting down 17 proved to be a salvation. A storming back 9 from A.T couldn’t overturn Cooke’s 6 point half way advantage and with it Cooke sitting pretty… again!

Hefter, in search of his Horsley showing, Radford free swinging, and Tuckwell with every ailment going - aimed to keep up with the pace setters. Tuckwell Jnr, regretted the third extra rounders game of the day with the pollen count high would have faired significantly better if 2 points were given for every bunker entered and par 3’s weren’t invented. A tough day for Radford, the good shots were good but the heavy rough proved the undoing with frequent visits derailing the challenge. Hefter was once again immaculate from tee to green, making a great start but couldn’t find any consistency on the greens, once again putting the skids on a bumper score. Hefter by 2. Radford set a six point, last 3 hole target and with renewed focus it was surpassed, a monstrous snaking putt proving inspirational on 17. Tuckwell finally got his first 3 pointer down the last as Hefter held on for the group glory.

Rotton, out of the wilderness, Horsburgh Jnr on home soil and Marriot were all searching for bragging rights with handicaps relatively equal and it was to prove tight all the way. Marriot followed up a no score with nett birdie/par/eagle to wrestle the early advantage as Rotton was arrowing in some pearlers keeping up the pressure. Horsburgh was unmetronomic with an uncharacteristic mixed bag of 1 and 3 pointers. A point separating the trio at halfway with Rotton and Marriot tied. A titanic tussle ensued with the three split by two points max until the penultimate hole and the lead changing hands more often than met offices’ weather forecasts. All appeared lost for Marriot before a second birdie of the day catapulted him into a 1 shot lead with the final hole to play. Horsburgh set about the mind games, outlying to Trev the significance of every shot, ending with a 5 footer that was required for victory. It narrowly slipped by handing Horsburgh the group spoils on count back. Marriot’s best round to date and a solid debut from Rotton.

A regular Wollaton 4,including previous course winners, Frame, McLoughlin, Buttress and Daft tried on the usual handicap negotiations which fell on deaf ears and passed without incident as Buttress opened with style. McLoughlin gave the impression of having a shocker, but the good parts must have been good. ‘Did anyone see a ball come over here,’ the typical phrase - recorded on a tape would have saved a lot of talking as forlornly swishing in the rough with hands in pockets became a regularity. A typical Frame card was littered with 1’s and 3’s of equal measure producing a 2 point halfway advantage. A tidy nett eagle for McLoughlin offset some waywardness as Daft struggled to build any momentum. A 17 point back 9 return was impressive by Buttress considering it contained 2 no scores. Frame was the man – 29 points through 14 holes and cruising until, not for the first time of the day - Horsburgh interjected with more helpful hints; you've got it in the bag Framey...you won't blow it from here...I can't believe you'll win again... A par up the last would have sealed another Wollaton Frame victory, it was not to be and group honours the consolation, amongst ridiculous talk of a shot back!

The final four: Phoenix, Dean, Jenkinson and Hall had the light meters out and an eye on the clock as Jenkinson’s large new driver thundered down the fairways fresh from bay 14 at the driving range. Phoenix, off a tight mark, and lightly raced found the going heavy with rough a notable handicap, but laughed in the face of no pointers with a flurry of 3 pointers to conclude the 9. Hall was once again off to a flier with 8 points in two holes. Comments from playing partners a little harsh, ‘What was the Hally? 8 for 3 for 5!’ Dean was well and truly halted by the rough with the trouser legs weighing heavily, as Hall raced to the turn with a 5 shot advantage. Jenkinson was seen praying to the gods as the greens proved troublesome. There was brief respite for Dean as the light faded as Phoenix produced the strongest of the group back 9’s. Hall finished well down the last as another long day on the road was beginning to take its toll.

Round 4 concluded; and more north of the river magic as Cooke (36) added his second title in 3 outings – and a march into single figures, 2 clear of Frame (34) who had the title in his own hands up the stretch. Another compact leaderboard saw Uri Geller Horsburgh (33 B9:16) pip Marriot (33 B9:15) with the final putt. McLoughlin (32) claiming a shot back can have no case for the defense with a 5th placed finish.

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Wollaton08_results.xls

NEXT UP ROUND 5 @ BONDHAY (Worksop) THIS SUNDAY (15TH) TEE RESERVED FROM 2.30

Round 4: Wollaton Park

2008-03-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

Wollaton Park Golf Club, Nottingham's premier golf club, is truly regarded by many as one of the "Gems of Midland Golf". Set in over 500 acres of magnificent parkland, the course, which is overlooked by the imposing 16th century Wollaton Hall, is traditionally parkland in character.

It is pleasantly undulating and winds its way through historic woodland which incorporates many fine specimens of trees. The course itself, which has hosted many important championships, the latest being one of the popular Seniors Tour events, was set out in 1927 and was designed by Tom Williamson.

It has been sensibly upgraded over the years to provide a fair test of ability for both the beginner and the experienced golfer alike, measuring 6,445 yards with a par and standard scratch of 71.

It certainly is a 'gem' and difficult to beaten for quality and surroundings especially on a sun soaked Friday night. On paper a tough track with tight fairways, unforgiving rough and the odd deer or a hundred, but it has been profitable for the TGS over the years yielding an average of 31, 34 and 31 points. 2006: 39 only good enough for 5th place. One of a host of players will be looking to make their move.

With 16 definites in the hat and Phoenix 50/50 it's sure to be a shoot out of high scores once again. Rotton and Buttress make debut and season debuts respectively with Frame and McLoughlin hoping for the full 18 after Horsley's washout. A.T, Dean and Hoenigmann are confirmed along with the regular crowd of Tuckwell Jnr, Horsburgh Jnr, Daft, Hefter, Jenkinson, Cooke, Hall, Radford and Marriot.

Over the 3 previous visits some names appear with regularity at the top of the leaderboard, showing good course form and eager for a repeat showing.: Frame victorious in 2005 and 2nd in 2007. McLoughlin 2nd '05, '07 and Horsburgh Jnr 3rd '05, tied 2nd '06. With all three competing, will one be victorious?

Ladd (43) holds the TGS course record and momentarily 'TGS high' after a blinder in 2006. Frame (22) has the front 9 honours in '07 with Ladd (23) the back 9 in '06.

What's the big idea..

1 - 2 boosts Puerta Banus Fund

2008-03-26T23:27:00.000-07:00

Perry Triumphs in Memorial Event

American Kenny Perry held off the challenge of England's Justin Rose to clinch the Memorial Tournament in Ohio. Perry, 47, fired a closing 69 to end eight under, two clear of Rose (71), American Jerry Kelly (71), Canadian Mike Weir (71) and Mathew Goggin.

Great news for Horsburgh who had a belting weekend. Perry, given his last chance, certainly delivered and at 25's rakes in a tidy £130 profit. But there's more, former Masters champion Mike Weir (66's), in contention right up the stretch, finished tied 2nd and a share of the each way cash with a £60 bonus. To complete the sweep, third pick of Ryan Moore (70's) made it back to back top 10's sealing a clean sweep and making it all drinks on Horsey on the Hally Puerta Banus stag. What you got for us next week Horse? Or will it be best to give you a miss!?

From Zero to Hero

2008-03-25T03:05:00.000-07:00

With history repeating itself on the weather front, the curse of Radcliffe appeared to have struck for the third year in succession. More curtain twitching ensued, as did back and forth calls between organisers, as the chance of another cancellation looked likely. Pockets of rain appeared to be saturating most of the county but Radcliffe seemed protected in a water tight bubble and game on as 14 began...

Horsburgh Snr missed out: a press release confirming a frozen shoulder from go-karting. A.T. was in the country but was attending a 60th, although did make the car park: dropping off Vin’s spikes that were left by the front door. CCTV shows, without stopping - the car circling the car park… braking… window wound down… shoes tossed out… the word ‘t-w-a-t’ mouthed… window up… acceleration. Hefter had work commitments, the thought of which brought a wry smile from the assembled!

Thacker, Cooke and Daft set off in a big hitting 3, a topped 3 wood off the 1st for Thacker was redeemed by a full 290yd driver out the semi onto the back of the green, class. A sticky start for Cooke, the handicappers grip looking tight, 6 points in 6 holes – stodgy. Horsburgh put the group on the clock after 4, after another Thacker missile disappeared and the search party were sent out. Daft found his Beedles form with a consistent opening 9 and a comfortable 4 point half way lead. Cooke kneaded to raise the mark, and blended a savoury choice of shots firmly applying the gas for a level par 9 hole stretch and 23 succulent points, through 15. There was not enough course for Thacker as huge drives were launched to all parts; 7 lost balls – always makes scoring tough. Daft faltered, but a good par on the tricky 17th ensured a good finish. Cooke once again with the clubhouse lead.

Horsburgh Jnr, Hall and Hood were off in short sleeves, a great 5 up the first from Horsburgh after a topped tee shot. Equally impressive by Hood after scurrying straight onto the tee, from the car park. Hall made the first move, nett eagle on 3 and was already eyeing up the 2 shots on the Par 3 ‘pond’ 11th. Horsburgh followed suit with birdie / nett eagle on the 6th as every green was being found in regulation. Nett birdie up 9 was the first of three back to back for Hood, with Horsburgh by 1 at the turn. Horsburgh ground out some 2 point metronomicness, putting for par on every hole. The moment had come for Hall, finally, with great excitement, the 11th and 2 shots on a Par 3, now just clear that pond… However the expectation proved too much; head lifted and ball fell off the tee peg and plum. ‘Never mind the pond Hally, watch out for the bin!’ was the response from Horsey. A further proclamation from Hall implying that he had the makings of a good round was met by another short tee shot. You never get this game beat! But a very tidy round nevertheless Matt. Back to back 3 point finish for Hood concluded another good round as Horsburgh finished top of the group.

Marriot and Radford were joined by the return of the cat, Hepburn, who had broken out into a cold sweat at the possibility of having to tee up with his nemesis Thacker. With Jenkinson hoping his yardage gauge was working significantly better than at Chilwell. Radford recovered excellently after a difficult opener and some tree trouble, as did Marriot who arrowed in some approaches. Hepburn must have feared the worst after an inauspicious start but began purring as the 3 pointers were racked up. Jenkinson, clearly in the zone, hit a high of the day 19 points for an opening 9, 4 point advantage. Hepburn registered on all but one hole up the stretch for a welcome return to some kind of form. Jenkinson, unperturbed by his only blemish on 11 finished strongly for a great round and awaited the barracking from Cooke to begin. Radford felt like a ten pin bowl skittle as the back group began forcing the pace and peppering some tee shots, with the light rapidly disappearing, but registered another solid round.

Tuckwell Jnr, wired up with a 24 hour heart monitor, Vin, Duffin and the mystery guest Naaman brought up the rear. Naaman, new to the game, hit the most immensely powered jet propelled tee shot off the first, that cleared the unclearable oak tree down the left, of which I am still chuckling at now. Tuckwell Jnr gave no cause for alarm with a procession of 2 pointers, the monitor may have briefly gone through the roof at 5.21pm as a 2 foot putt trickled poorly wide. Nett eagles for Naaman and Vin up the testing 3rd and Duffin got in on the act on 7, conquering ‘long straight’ with ease, the antique wooden headed Ping working at the correct altitude. Duffin by one. Mega profit for Vin round Amen corner as 2 holes brought 7 well needed points. Duffin stuttered and decided that putting was overrated so delivered a master class in flop shots. All aboard the showboat as pitch after pitch finished feet away from the pin. Tuckwell Jnr nearly flat lined on 11, as a 4 iron hit the flag finishing a foot away for a near ace. Naaman was determined 193 yards equaled 7 iron: 2 attempts at the green would suggest otherwise but the big fella was still adamant! Duffin scored every hole in a pleasing round, only the greens preventing a bumper score. Tuckwell Jnr faltered into the finish, pulse barely beating as Naaman kept up the entertainment and a very satisfying round, plenty of points to be had next time on the short stuff. Another nett eagle on 17 for Vin surpassed his previous TGS best and with it the group honours on count back, as the light faded. Well played.

So, from zero to hero and the difference a year makes. Radcliffe 2007 Jenkinson rock bottom, game in tatters. Radcliffe 2008 Jenkinson (36) victorious with a 3 shot triumph over Horsburgh Jnr (33) and possibly more importantly bragging rights over Cooke! A compact leaderboard saw Vin (32 B9:19) find his first podium finish ahead of Cooke (32 B9:18) and Tuckwell Jnr (32 B9:16). A thoroughly pleasing evening as the rain abstained and the light held out.

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Radcliffe08_results.xls

Full list of results and leaderboard to the right.

Legend

2008-03-24T01:14:00.000-07:00

I bring you the late 90's Tollerton FC goalkeeping sensation that is Mr Karim Naaman, who arrived and departed in style on his Vespa; clubs and trolley on his back. New to the game and on debut, some stunning shots were played and was cracking company as always. The fourball were glad that a birdie putt on five pulled up short as the promise to play the remaining holes 'exposed' if it went in was not tested! Karim I hope you made it back safely!

Cool Mickelson Celebrates Colonial Win

2008-03-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

American world number two Phil Mickelson sank a superb birdie on the final hole to win his second Colonial Invitational title by a shot. Above, agony as one slips by...

Round 3: Radcliffe-on-Trent

2008-03-22T00:21:00.000-07:00

The Radcliffe-on-Trent Golf Club is within easy reach of Nottingham, Leicester, Newark and Grantham and offers a superb 18-hole parkland course measuring 6374 yards, par 70, with three of the most challenging finishing holes in Nottinghamshire. The Golf Club was founded in 1909 with approximately 40 acres of land, and affords splendid views over the Vale of Belvoir, the castle itself appearing in the background.

It has plenty of natural and man-made hazards ready in waiting to liven up your round and provide you with a stern test of your abilities. Whether high or low handicapper, this course will soon tell you exactly how good you are. There is plenty to excite the more discerning player without intimidating those new to the game and it has certainly claimed more than its fair share of scorecard casualties in its time. Keep your concentration, temperament and guile to avoid becoming another of its victims. Laid out on part-wooded parkland, it also has a fine setting for a round of golf. But don't just take out word for it - try it yourself! (Radcliffe-on-Trent '08)

A notoriously tough track for TGS players, ranked 2nd of 14 (’06) and 3rd of 10 (’07) in difficulty, although the weather may well have contributed to the low scores. only 4 of 8 finishing in 2006 due to persistent heavy rain and the course playing very long in 2007 due to similar weather patterns. 2008 appears to be no different with showers forecast but allegedly easing off between 4.30 and 9 on Wednesday! Horsburgh Jnr has featured well on both occasions, somehow racking up 38 points (’06) for a record 9 point winning margin from Hepburn (29). The Preston Potter, Jim Dean (37), is the only other man to have beat the 36 point margin with a 3 point victory in 2007 over Baker Jnr (34) and the Swindon based Ladd (33)

18 confirmed: Tuckwell Jnr, Horsburgh Jnr, Hefter, Hood, Cooke, Jenkinson, Duffin, Vin, Hall, Dean, Horsburgh Snr, Radford and Daft are all following up their Chilwell outings accompanied by Baker Snr and Hepburn. Ball and Thacker are on debut with the late 90’s Tangerine mystery guest.

And finally, Jerry Springer's thought for the day...

Whether young or old we hope you enjoy your golf and the clubhouse facilities, all we ask is that in return you leave the course, as you wish to find it, and take care of yourself and each other...

Heartbreak for Hefter

2008-03-21T21:43:00.000-07:00

An 11th hour change of plan costs Hefter dear.

With Crane (20's) and Thompson (50's) safely declared Imada (25's) was added for Hefter's trio only to be swapped for Parker McLachlin (80's) very late in the day. It appeared to be a masterstroke as McLachlin had led halfway through the final round until bogeys on 14,16 and 18 cost him a place in the play off. With the golfing Gods clearly against, it was Japan's Ryuji Imada who claimed his maiden PGA Tour title with a play off victory over Kenny Perry, after a final round, 5 under par, 67.

Further misery was heaped on Hefter as Horsburgh's top performer for the weekend, Columbian Camilo Villegas (33's), fired 5 birdies in the final 7 holes and clinched out right 3rd spot on 14 under and perhaps more importantly the bragging rights for Horsburgh and an

8 1/2 - 2 1/2 advantage

Speaking to Betfair, 'To say I'm gutted would be quite an understatment!' Hefter.

The only consolation, Horsburgh needed the out right win to pay out, while Hefter notched a sneaky £55 each way profit. Onwards and upwards to Texas, and this weeks USPGA FedEx Championship.

Confirmed

2008-03-20T14:15:00.000-07:00

Which local legend, of the Tollerton FC late 90's playing squad, has confirmed his place at Radcliffe, a week on Wednesday? A colourful character both on and off the pitch, certain to entertain. Book your place to find out.

Jenkinson finds a cure

2008-03-19T23:00:00.000-07:00

Cooke Serves up a Treat

2008-03-18T22:53:00.000-07:00

A glorious summer afternoon at Chilwell, for the first time on tour, with a bumper turn out of 17. Millionaires golf with the course empty apart from members Doris and Agnes who turned up 5 minutes late and had their whole afternoon ruined by a group of burly blokes. Pre-drinks and a catch up was the order of the day before under starter’s orders at 2.

Jenkinson, enjoying 3 months of gardening leave, Chilwell member and the heartbeat of the Keyworth Utd midfield Bremner, and the man mountain Keyworth defender, Cooke, with one former TGS outing to his name in 2006 and goals in a short Air Hostess career opened proceedings. The latter trying every trick in the book for a handicap increase - the best, an appearance of a hastily applied wrist bandage - subsequent removal on 12 raised questions! Cooke was hotter than the days temperature on the short stuff, three 1 putts for 8 points in 3 holes, a nice birdie on 2 the highlight, followed by a trio of nett birdies for a scorching opening 9, to be the best of the day. Whether this contributed indirectly to the form of Jenkinson’s is unsure but in Svenko’s eyes, YES! A steady opener couldn’t have prepared Jenks for what unravelled as a series of irons flew handsomely through greens and were last seen landing near Beeston. Clubbing 2 less than his playing partners faired little better and the duo were held firmly responsible! Someone phone Vic and change the locks! Bremner had the onerous task of the days host but delivered under the pressure, nett eagle very welcome up the par 5 6th. Cooke by 6 at the turn. Bremner halved the deficit on 10 with a rare Cooke no score, and kicked on but had no answer to Cooke's ‘bounce back ability’ as the big number 5 slammed the door with a storming finish, nett eagle on 16, posting a monstrous target. The paramedic was put on hold as Jenkinson’s blood pressure returned to a stable state, notching on every back 9 hole. Although the thinnest of saplings, on 14, no bigger than a balls width, snaffled an approach to increase the angst. I’m sure I saw it move Jenks!

Daft, still tour favourite with minimal movement in the market, the elegantly dressed Hefter and celebrity Horsburgh Snr had points to prove. Hefter zigzagged up the 1st, still bemused as to how his father could shoot 55 over 9 holes with a six iron and a putter at the first time of asking. It must be genetic, please be in the genes! Horsburgh made steady progress using everyone of his clubs to make an impression, while Daft started and finished the front 9 with a no score, although perhaps one of the only ones to cover themselves in glory on the tough 5th – the best of less than a 50% completion rate. Whilst foraging for a lost ball on 5 – Hefter revealed a pink ball, a golf ball, please! and decided it might change his fortunes. Fortunately justice proved it got the contempt it deserved. 1 shot – fore – lost – move on! Tight – Horsburgh Snr by 1. Hefter scored all the way home without incident as did Daft who found his rhythm after missing his mid-week sighter and finished strongly with 2 nett birdies, unfortunately not quite enough to oust group winner Horsbugh Snr, who finished 1 clear amid a clutter of paparazzi. When interviewed about his revival there appears to be more method in the 2 club madness. ‘I scored more points with my rescue iron and putter on the back 9 holes than with all 13 put together on the front! Next up the Radcliffe 2 club shoot out...

A window in A.T’s hectic holiday schedule allowed him to attend and with it partnered son number 2, Vin and his French Family Ski Partner in crime, Duffin.

Vin played through a whole range of emotions, mainly despair while Duffin tried to play through the effects of a ‘Stess late night lock in. The beating sun not ideal! A.T opened in style with a comfortable birdie although it was Duffin who opened most solidly with 8 points through 4, despite thinking he was back in the Alps and each tee shot needed to clear a mountain. ‘Oh give me a break!’ echoed round the 5th as Vin found the tree in the middle of the fairway which in turn found the brook as the red mist descended. A.T limped through to the turn for a 3 shot advantage. The green keepers’ shed and adjacent wall rebounded a ‘fore left’ from Vin on 10 but the maestro couldn’t capitalise, as the possibility of the ‘TGS Low’ began to figure more prevalently in the mind. Another birdie for A.T set up a rousing back 9 as the last pint of Becks still sat heavily with Duffin. ‘Sod it!’ was the comment from Vin on 14 after bunker – bunker – bunker and a big finish required. And what a finish! Clubbing three clubs less than his playing partners (quote ‘because I was angry!) a 9 iron flew all of 160 yards into wind on to the top level of the green, two putts – pressure off – Now I like golf again! 2 further nett birdies in the last two holes regained sanity in a strong finish. A.T. with the group spoils.

Tuckwell Jnr, still basking in Saturday’s KCC last ball thrilling victory, Tiger Woods ’08 Radford, sun kissed Hall and debutant Marriot all got away cleanly. Hall in blistering free swinging form around the opening 4 with the 3 wood working with unerring accuracy. Radford, demonstrating a full blooded Wii practice shot middled Tuckwell’s 4 iron causing an indention in the bigman’s wood– but appeared unproblematic as 18 points in 6 holes concluded by far one of the most impressive opening 9 of the day. The flop shot approach thrice finishing stone dead amid some high fives. Tuckwell, suffering from some verbal diahorrea, was another to be derailed by the 5th and greed got the better on 7, a gap not as big as anticipated ricocheted off a tiny tree. Talking his partners through the high draw that was about to be executed off the 8th, the final resting place of the ball can be deduced from the comment by Hall, ‘Even Tony Hart couldn’t draw that one!’ as it sailed off…further and further... Marriot’s good holes were very, very good, a touch of consistency required but well played in the first outing for a while. Radford held a swashbuckling 7 shot lead at the turn. Hall produced a purple patch mid back 9, a fantastic birdie on 9 as a lengthy snaking putt never looked like missing. A great effort also on the Par 3’s: 2 over for the combined 4. 2 birdies provided Tuckwell with the catalyst but with etiquette lacking Radford kept composure as the football scores were relayed loudly to the final group mid swing. Radford finished with a tidy nett par for group honours and a very pleasing round.

Meadows, fresh from his usual Sunday morning Stanton outing ,and as always dashingly attired, joined the final 4, along with Hood and his first outing in 18 months, Horsburgh Jnr, keen to improve on a sneaky midweek Wollaton sighter and the determined Dean. A chip in birdie up the opener for Meadows set the heart pumping; one more point in the next 5 set the blood boiling. A bag clatter and a buckled trolley wheel alleviated the pressure gauges. Hood faired best on the opening 4 holes but the troublesome 5th struck again with all 4 failing to register, Hood found the edge of water and a hefty whack resulted in dislodging a spare ball landing close to Meadows, unaware of the owner of the second object, Meds believed the two ball behind were the culprits and was about to be unleash his fury as the trolley was spun 180. Horsburgh quickly established calm. Crossing the road to the back 10 proved the spur for Dean, as the low scoring 4 were separated by a solitary shot. A similar start to the back 9 for Meadows, birdie, briefly caused optimism before playing out in a similar highly testosteroned fashion. Horsburgh decided to hit hyper drive with a procession of nett birdies, as did Hood before the bogey train arrived. Dean’s nett eagle on 13 launched him up back into the mix for the final push tied with Horsburgh Jnr with 2 to play, 3 ahead of Hood. A magnificent 7 point two hole finish from Hood saw the trio draw level with Hood victorious on count back. Well played Ollie. A dejected Dean unveiled the harshness of his playing partners, after a putt inside 2 foot was missed early on ,a further 3 were not conceded and also missed, leaving the Horsburgh shoulders moving vertically vigorously, with Dean retorting ‘miserable b***ards’.

A great day and a tale of two nines: the first averaging a miserly 12 points and the back a solid 16. The round belonged to one man who quite literally deep fried the rest of the field: Cooke (40) eclipsing his nearest challenger by 6, with a fantastic round. Bremner (34 B3:7) found the podium on debut and on home soil from A.T (34 B3:6) followed closely by Horsburgh Jnr (32) of which all 3 scooped the back 9 high of the day of 20, to carry on some promise to Radcliffe in two weeks time.

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/TGS_Results_08.xls

Caption Competiton

2008-03-17T09:41:00.000-07:00

WINNER

2008-03-16T07:30:00.000-07:00

HORSBURGH V HEFTER

American Anthony Kim became the youngest winner on the US PGA Tour in more than six years with victory at the Wachovia Championship. The 22-year-old shot a final-round 69 to finish on 16 under par, five clear of Ben Curtis who shot 65.

Kim acknowledged the support he received from his British backers to the BBC.

"I can't even put it into words right now. I don't know what to say," Kim said. "It's a wonderful experience."

This is the second win for both 'gamblers' swelling the profit into 3 figures (of disclosed winnings!) with the promise of more to come. Horsburgh is the tipster on form with a comfortable 6 1/2 - 2 1/2 lead, and surpassing 10 consecutive Top 10 predictions.

Below, disagreement, of the in running betting and alleged copying scandal...

2008-03-15T12:01:00.000-07:00

Round 3: and it's a first time appearance for Chilwell Manor, an established club which celebrated its centenery in 2006.

'It has forged a considerable reputation for itself as a warm and friendly place to take to enjoy a round, and the course itself is held in very high regard. Measuring 6395 yards from the tee on the first hole all the way to the pin on the eighteenth, it is a good length and you will come across plenty of hazards to excite and challenge your game. '

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/molyned/chilwell/chilcourse1.htm

Plenty to 'excite' and 'challenge' for those thrill seekers looking to play some shots, with some water, a bit of sand with some undulating fairways and greens. Plenty of shorter Par 4's, to cash in on the shots, for the higher handicaps.

MEADOWS - the 14th green from the fairway. This is a 435 yards par 4 hole. Ladies - 392 yards, par 5. Another long hole (S.I.2) curving gently right. This features a long narrow green

sloping from front to back.

Will it be lucky for its namesake?

Another bumper turnout without all confirmations received. Seasons debuts for Hall, Hood and A.T. Jenko will be itching to go with three months gardening leave on the table, maybe a late dark horse for the title? Chilwell member and Keyworth United midfield playmaker, Bremner, makes his TGS debut along with Vin's partner in crime from the Alps, Duffin. Local celebrity, Horsburgh Snr, has cancelled a supermarket opening and returns to the fold along with the usual suspects of Tuckwell Jnr and Jnr Jnr, Horsburgh Jnr, Hefter, Radford, Meadows, Daft and Baker Snr and Dean.

Klaxon Cuts Competition

2008-03-14T22:43:00.000-07:00

After a week of curtain twitching and scanning the 10 Day forecast, early sunshine looked set to disprove the meteorologists yet again. A bumper weekend for the organisers, 10 became 16 in a flurry of Saturday afternoon phone calls. First, never-a-dull-moment, Frame confirmed followed by the Lone Ranger himself, McLoughlin. Potter, eyeing the main prize, swelled the more experienced section with Baker Snr also in the paddock; Horsburgh Snr missed out after being firmly over-ruled over possible non-attendance of a 60th birthday bash. At the other end of the spectrum, Stanton County Junior players Allen and Minchin boosted the youth policy and quality, handicaps of 3 and 5 respectively.

Dean and Baker Snr were in relaxed and optimistic mood with the buggy fully juiced up and waiting, with thoughts of aching joints up the stretch a distant memory.

Alas it was not to be, with possibly the highest quality field to date, 12 holes was the maximum the lead group could make, with Meadows straining at the leash and eager to make his mark, before the Gods unleashed their fury. The storm warning initially skirted the surrounding landscape, with the heavens threatening, an almighty crash of thunder was followed a dazzling lightning display that had the klaxon blaring and the field retreating. More customary to the U.S Tour rather than the TGS Tour, certainly a first!

The final quartet of Tuckwell Jnr, Dean, Baker Snr and Hefter were handily placed on the 10th, within a stones throw of the cars, as the end of the world approached. Baker Jnr, Meadows, Allen and Minchin faired less fortunately, crammed in a tiny wooden hut with ex-ladies Captain – Hilary; who managed to scramble a direct line to the clubhouse and proceeded with verbal diarrhoea about pleated skirts, darning and running through every shot of the 94 accumulated in the previous 11 holes. Baker was about to test Hils's conductibility but couldn’t decide whether husband Eric should be sent out instead, who kept the huddled group abreast of the imminent storm with ‘one elephant…two elephant…three elephant – did you know that one was 400m away… one elephant…' Lord strike me down and put me out of this insanity!

McLoughlin, for once mis-firing, was thankful for the adverse weather conditions but amidst the darkening gloom became conscience of only having a t-shirt as sole protection; but found salvation in a broken brolly in a nearby bin, to Daft’s amusement!

Hoenigmann drew blood after a lengthy spell rummaging in the bushes on 4, pausing over the next shot as claret spilled down the shaft prompting need for some first aid.

Horsburgh Jnr triumphantly informed his fellow partners that if you don’t par the 8th you might as well walk in, before proceeding to duff one lamely into the adjacent stream whilst limply retorting in a Charles Hawtrey toned voice ‘Oh no don’t go in there!’ On that advice 11 of the field may as well have given up as a bad job, Minchin tamed the tester, driving the 291 yard hole; always a helpful way of getting a birdie.

With the field safely accounted for in the clubhouse and with the ample ladies to service the thirst, a voucher awaited entitling a full replay for all, nice touch. With no other choice but to call it void; it was despair for the leaders and second chance for the languishers.

With all groups finishing 9: A 9 hole challenge for honour, prestige and bragging rights.

Half the field were separated by only 4 points, it was certainly shaping up for an interesting finale, sure to test ones bottle and see who would need to reach for the Halls Soothers. Hefter equalled Baker Snr’s 2007’s opening 9 high of 20 points and with it the double edged glory. After a no score up the first the putter was in immaculate touch as was the course management and sand saves. Baker Snr, also hot with the putter, confirmed definite course form with a superb second placed 19 points: A brilliant nett eagle the highlight on 6. Man of the moment Daft (18) ousted the always entertaining Frame (18) on count back for the final podium spot. One '2 point' over the 9 was nothing less than expected for Frame! Minchin (17), on debut, started and finished with birdie for joint lowest gross with Allen (16). While Meadows (16) was handily placed after an important nett birdie on 9 amidst a flurry of fist pumps. On the same hole Baker Jnr (15) managed to bounce one back down the road, a passing Jaguar deflecting the ball metres from the original hit. Tuckwell Jnr (16) finished with a long snaking birdie on 9, the second of the round after a comfortable tap in on 5. Hoenigmann (16) wracked up another impressive 9, time spent on the driving range pre tee-off signalling intent. Radford (14) showed immediate improvement, practise on Tiger Woods ’08 clearly paying dividends!

With all said and done it, Meadows still managed to sit pretty in the clubhouse. Cheers!

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/Horsley_9holechallenge.xls

Caption Competition

2008-03-13T22:32:00.000-07:00

Answers below or on the forum.

Hepburn gets a hole in one!

2008-03-12T09:30:00.000-07:00

5th hole, Stanton-on-the-Wolds. 156 yards, slightly into wind, 5 iron in hand. Majestically struck, one pitch and perfect arc into the awaiting cup. ACE...

...Ian Hepburn (Snr) managed the impressive feat on Friday the 25th of April.

Earlier reports that Hepburn Jnr had repeated the amazing achievement were disproven, with photographic evidence showing that comments had been taken out of context.

Although for TGS Records, Chris Hepburn does hold the record for the nearest for a hole-in-one, 3 inches, at the 17th at Norwood Park after clatting the pin. And yes he did get his birdie!

2008-03-11T23:41:00.000-07:00

The jewel of 2007, first time played and a real treat.

Officially Ranked the No.1 Course in Derbyshire and Awarded Silver Medal in the Midland Section (2005): Golf Monthly and HSBC UK Course Rankings.

'Expertly molded into 168 acres of wonderful Derbyshire countryside, this remains a thinking course where a variety of shot making skills are necessary to arrive at a large green, where subtle undulations provide the golfer with a further challenge. It can be both easy and difficult at the same time. Higher handicappers can club down, heroes can go for it. Trees really define the holes now, and the greens in 2007 are fast and true with meadow grass now being dominant over the American grass used in the greens construction'.

(Horsley Lodge website)

Something for everyone, especially liking 'heroes can go for it!' (Meds!) and was also wondering if a variety of shot making meant...

A *Rock Hudson* - looked straight, but it wasn't
A *Saddam Hussein* - from one bunker straight into another
A *Kate Winslett* - little bit fat but otherwise perfect
A *Glen Miller* - didn't make it over the water
An *Arthur Scargill* - a great strike but a poor result
A *Russell Grant* - a fat iron
A *Rodney King* - over-clubbed
An *O.J. Simpson* - got away with it
A *Princess Grace* - should have taken a driver
A *Princess Di* - shouldn't have taken a driver
A *Michael Jackson* - gradually fading
A *Douglas Bader* - looked good in the air, but didn't have the legs
A *Ken Livingstone* - quite far left
A *Jean-Marie LePen* - a long way right
A *condom* - safe but didn't feel real good
A *circus tent* - a BIG top
A *Sally Gunnell* - ugly, but a good runner
A *Liz McColgan* - Ugly but runs forever

Ranked 9th out of 10 in dificulty through 2007 at a measly average of 26.4 points. The first of Meadow's back to back victories with 33 points, enough to take the honours and even more impressive with '5 blobs'. An indication of the challenge ahead (or maybe just bad play) 65 blobs racked up by the 15 2007 starters! It's important to get a good start, with a tricky back 9 and especially the finishing straight. Baker Snr holds the record for the front 9: 20 points. Meadows the back 9: 17 points. Horsburgh Jnr and Tuckwell Jnr made up the places behind Meadows but look out of touch after a tough outing at Beedles. Round 1 winner and pre-tour favourite, Daft, can't be overlooked despite poor course form.

http://www.horsleylodge.co.uk/Viewcourse.htm

Directionally, don't ask A.T! Any problems give me a shout.

http://www.horsleylodge.co.uk/Location.htm

More rabbit than...

2008-03-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

Recent press release, sees Meadows in a bouyant and confident mood.

'Congratulations to Mr Daft on a positive opening round to the season, I was on fine form at Sleaford in a club match but the real competition for everyone starts in a couple of weeks at Horsley. A fiver will be placed with the bookmaker on yours truely. Tuckers make sure you have some film in that camera of yours the Poulter dressing, Tiger ability hotshot will see you soon for my debut Horsley defence.' Meadows 15/04/08

I hope you'll be bringing your A game Meds......... more rabbit than Ann Summers from you this winter..... the nation awaits!!! ;-) Hepburn 15/04/08

Jessica Rabbit.

Magician's rabbit

Welsh Rarebit

Peter Rabbit

Watership Down

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLHKzs12OGw
Chas & Dave 1980

Favourite Confirms Top Billing

2008-03-09T12:04:00.000-07:00

A return to Beedles Lakes and double figures for the opener. The midweek forecast looked unsettled at best but what unravelled was a pleasant afternoon with a brief hail interlude. Hepburn boarded the magic carpet from Oxford and the temperature was sufficiently warm for Baker Snr to make the starting grid. The media circus surrounding Horsburgh Snr arrived with time for a coffee before proceedings commenced. As per usual the drill sergeant was ready to inspect and cash in on absent pitch mark repairers in his brutal yet comedic fashion, this time adding a folder of ‘banned clubs’ to his repertoire. Do you get out much…?

2005 runner up Hepburn and drinks aficionado (without onboard cabinet!?), The Power – Baker Snr and the Metronome – 2006 winner Horsburgh Jnr got the 2008 Season underway, with the latter having the opening honours. Hepburn banished previous demons with a procession of two pointers as Horsburgh stumbled into the season, an early 4 putt setting the tone. Baker swung into an early groove with 9 points through 4 but was as good as it got as water formed a major part of the remainder. A double reload on 7 also proving troublesome. With all three on simmer, a rarity: HEPBURN BY ONE!!! At the turn – renaissance, is there something in the no pinocolada lark Chris? A rare glimpse of possible things to come, nett eagle for Horsburgh Jnr, followed by some consistency, unfortunately the only bit of salvation in an otherwise disappointing afternoon. Baker was hampered by water on 12: a miscued tee shot avoided the wet stuff but a 5 yard second didn’t. Hepburn rekindled some not to distant memories: a 90º wormburner collided spectacularly with the ladies yardage marker off the 15th tee and ricocheted handsomely down the fairway. With the tough back 9 gaining the upper hand, it was Hepburn who stole the group honours for the first time in over 3 years!

Amid the media frenzy and autographs, Horsburgh Snr plays it cool and loosens the shoulders

Horsburgh Snr, Hefter and 2007 North Shore starlet Hoenigmann set off with the dark clouds gathering. The customary ‘ting’ of the Hoenigma’s King Cobra echoed off the first and every other tee for that matter, proving it had wintered well. Hefter settled best into a rhythm; of two point regularity. The weight of expectation appeared to hang heavily on Horsburgh, although taking 4 holes to realise that the reason the 9 iron wasn’t going very high was because it was the 6 iron, probably didn't help! Hoenigmann waited patiently until the 7th before igniting his round: 10 points in 3 holes, including 2 nett eagles saw him catapult into the ascendancy by 2. Hefter looking for a tidy half way total came a cropper up 9, sitting comfortably in front of the green for 3: two trips to alternate sandy shores culminated in Eurovision’s finest – nil points. Horsburgh and Hoenigmann both went ‘fishing’ on 10 before a mini revival saw Horsburgh briefly threaten; although backers will be impressed with a relatively strong finish. With the round equivalent to Augusta in duration, the trio decided to analyse the first groups swings a la Butch Harmon: leans back on impact, arms too close to the body, too fast, before all missing the fairway and realising their own handicaps! Hefter finished strongly; one blemish sandwiched between three 3 pointers. Once again Hoenigmann played steadily before a flamboyant ending. A bullish nett eagle up 18 for his 3rd 4 pointer of the round tied Hefter for group honours, just missing out on the back 9.

Pre-tour favourite Daft, 2007 champion Tuckwell Jnr, 2 times 2007 tour winner Dean and the powerhouse Radford brought up the field. All good from tee to green; the quartet struggled to get to grips with the slick baize in the opening holes, before Dean made a meteoric rise up the leaderboard with a nett eagle/birdie double – the wand final producing the magic. Daft finally dusted off the winter rustiness with a trio of nett birdies to cling onto the coat tails in the latter part of the 9. Tuckwell was untidily unspectacular with a solid opening 9. Newcomer Radford was swinging freely and hitting shots uncharacteristic to a man new to the game, a definite ‘watch this space over the season’ especially when the short game slots into place. Dean limped to the turn but finished strongly for a 1 shot half way lead. Radford joined the fishing party on 10 as Daft produced the shot of the day – low, raking banana shot, dissecting two bunkers and finishing on the back of the green after being well and truly snookered by an ageing oak. Tuckwell couldn’t find any inspiration amidst a mild meltdown. Dean and Daft were inseparable through 15. The turning point fate/fortune on 16.

Dean rooted: the green 90º to the right.

Daft teetering: A handily placed sign.

A re-occurring knee injury derailed Dean up the stretch – Tuckwell offering to get it out for him if he holed it, was misconstrued! Daft decided on 17 whether to keep under the radar or go for handicap reduction – not best with the rules committee in close proximity. Decision made; with 2 bombs off the final two tees. A blob up 18 was Tuckwell’s only no score in a laboured title defence. Daft resolutely home.

An ominous and comprehensive victory from the bookies favourite, Daft (38) for his sixth win in 28 starts lifting him clear of A.T. in tournaments won. An equally impressive second for Dean (34) in tough conditions, with Hefter (31: B9-17) getting the better of Hoenigmann (31 B9-15) on the back 9.

After Round 1 Bangles Bookmakers was reportedly standing all prices… but Bob was being pushed out a bit!

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/TGS_Results_08.xls

ROUND 2: HORSLEY LODGE - SUNDAY APRIL 27TH @ 3pm

What it's all about.

2008-03-08T12:25:00.000-08:00

Here she is, in all her glory, the TGS Claret Jug. The prize that awaits the TGS 2008 Champion, to join the illustrious company of past winners R. Baker, J. Horsburgh and S. Tuckwell.

Is this the closest Horsburgh Snr will come to the silverware?

Is Hoenigmann dreaming of consuming his beer from the hallowed trophy come October?

Who tried to flip and catch three beer mats, but failed?

Will Michael be the first Scottish champion?

Is the glass half empty or half full?

to be continued...

The dealings of a bookmaker...

2008-03-07T12:16:00.000-08:00

Caption Competition... (answers to be posted on the forum)

The Opener

2008-03-06T03:11:00.000-08:00

Only days away, the TGS carnival opens for 2008...

At the initial weigh in, 23 runners were declared for the season, as can be viewed on Bangles Bookmakers Ltd.

http://tuckers.fr33webhost.com/TGS_odds08.doc

Bookmaker Chris Hepburn, is open for trade and confirmation of bets can be placed through mail, phone or in person. An impressive Horsburgh Snr victory could see odds of 33/1 slashed, so now's the time. An inside peak at the other rider from the Horsburgh stud, Jnr, swung into some ominous form midweek, with Daft also reported to be swinging loose down the range.

With the going likely to be soft and some of the big hitters planning their scheldules to tailor into peaking at the right time a lower than expected but definite 9 have confirmed their running with a trio undecided.

Pre-tour favorite, Daft, 2006 and 2007 Tour Champions Horsburgh Jnr and Tuckwell Jnr are amongst the starters with self declared 2008 Champion elect Horsburgh Snr... Radford, Hepburn, Hoenigmann, Dean and Hefter. Jenkinson, Baker Snr and Dann may feature.

Congratulations

2008-03-05T08:20:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Tim 'Svenko' Jenkinson and Vicky on the birth of the first child, Milly Grace - 7lb 6oz. Born on April 1st.

The most successful manager in Tollerton FC's illustrious history and all round top bloke. Sharply dressed and previous owner of the TGS Tour high round: Rufford '05 - 42pts.

Rating

Tim Jenkinson
Hcp 21
Rounds 15 -Wins 1 - Placed 4 - Unplaced 10
Odds - 10/1
High Score 42 - Low Score 19
Average 32.1
2007: 31/19
Rating 74

Only seen twice during the course of 2007, but has a more than respectable average over the course of 3 years, and has a course win at Rufford to his name (2005) Combines a nice swing with a solid all round game, and is more than capable of posting big scores, off what is a more than generous mark. On the minus side, his tendancy to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory is the stuff of legends.

Jenks & Robbie: North Shore '06

The baby's head wetting session has been penciled in for a week on Friday (11th of April) around Bridgford. All welcome. 7.30 start subject to further notice

Tollerton Golf Society

Frame By 2, As Harris Opens An Advantage

Alectric

Tuckwell Seals Home Win

Frame by 1, in the Season Opener

Double Delight for Daft

The Destiny of 2010

Jay Makes it a 3 Horse Race

Hot off the Press

Hepburn's Latest Accessory...

Costa Del Cotgrave

Anyone for Bondhay?

Brown Victorious Amidst Handicap Protection

2009 TGS Champion

You Couldn't Script It

Permutations

Contenders Steal a March on Daft

9 out of 8 Balls Prefer the Water...

One Shot Wonder

Like Father Like Son

Potter Pouches The Pot

Half Way Through.

Round 4 Review: Bondhay

Round 3 Review: Wollaton Park

Chubb Victorious After the Inquisition

Redemption for Red Hot Horsburgh

Horsey Counts the Costs

Hefter Leaves His Mark

G.O.D. Day

2009 Fixtures - Hot off the Press

2009 Calendar

Another Boy

Vin's World Blog

Around the World with Vin

Around the World with Vin

Date for the Diary

TGS End of Season Weekender

******WINNER******

The Showdown

Caption Competition

Them Be The Rules

Cotgrave Masters

Do The Maths...

Wee Know What You're Doing

A.T Makes it Interesting as the 9 Hole Master Finds 18 Hole Form

Birstall

Breaking News

Buttress Bangs in the Birdies

Have Another Go...

Advantage Meadows

Melton Preview

Fortune Favours the Brave

The Business End.

Top 10 Caddy Retorts

Bad Etiquette - but funny

Meadows Masters Morley

Morley Hayes in Pictures

The Belfry by Numbers

Caption Competiton

Duffin's Hangover Cure

Meadows Gets in on the Act

100 up as Marriot Maintains Composure

Caption Competition

Chubb Joins the '5 point' Club

Meadows Launches Latest Accessory

Third Time Lucky...

Hucknall Monopoly Continues

Round 4: Wollaton Park

1 - 2 boosts Puerta Banus Fund

From Zero to Hero

Legend

Cool Mickelson Celebrates Colonial Win

Round 3: Radcliffe-on-Trent

Heartbreak for Hefter

Confirmed

Jenkinson finds a cure

Cooke Serves up a Treat

Caption Competiton

************WINNER************

Klaxon Cuts Competition

WINNER

WINNER