As this was the first seniors’ competition in March, it was a great day for a relaxing game of golf. All seniors turned up as bright and cheerful as the weather and ready to tackle the course. The remnants of last week’s snow were evident in a couple of the bunkers and a few of the sheltered spots. The worst effect, however, was witnessed on the 12th hole, where the pathway from tee to green had been eroded by the waves, making it unsafe to walk along.

Last week had seen the completion of the Winter Eclectic competition, so all those who took part were just out to enjoy this four ball better ball played over15 holes.

A look at the starting sheet indicated a few pairings expected to be in with a shout at the end of the round. Recent scores and form suggested that Ross James and Jim Moffatt might figure, as might John Stevenson and Bart Youll. Derek Cole and Stan Hudson along with Keith Hubbard and Mick Whale would have had good odds at the bookies.

So how did they all fare? A few minor adjustments had to be made at the start. Peter Hart was partner-less, so was reduced to just marking the opposition’s scorecard and Alan Yates’s place was taken by Adrian Palmer. Of the 18 pairs listed, only 17 were able to hand in a scorecard. The scoring was good with only one pair failing to make 30.

Coming in on 30 points, just ahead of Bob Howse and Ray Ford, were David Blackmore and Bob Wiseman. Three points ahead of this pair was that of Ross James and Jim Moffatt, while in between these were the pairings of Robin Hagley and Ron Murphy, Geoff Aston and Roger Barton and Richard Davies and Tony Ranoe.

Further up on 35 could be found David Henry and Derek Jones along with Steve Decosimo and David Rees, Keith Hubbard and Mick Whale and finally Idwal David and Adrian Palmer.

Alan Jones and John Hayhoe (his fifth appearance this winter) went two better, while on 38 were Peter Williams and Charles McFee, all missing out on the placings.

In third spot, also on 38, but with a better back nine, were John Stevenson and Bart Youll. In front of them claiming second place with a score of 39 were Des Stone and John Richards. Top spot this week went to bookies favourites, Stan Hudson and Derek Cole with a magnificent 42 points. Their card included Stan’s eagle three on the first and a back end score of five 3s and one 4.

Alan Jones was the only other senior to match Stan’s eagle on the first with one of his own.

In amongst all this there were four 2s, Steve Decosimo on the sixth, John Voysey on the 12th, and Bart Youll and Stan Hudson on the 18th.

Compensation went to seniors’ captain, Idwal, when he drew his own number out of the bag in the weekly draw.

Next week sees the completion of the winter programme with a Florida Scramble over 15 holes, followed by food and presentation.