Undeterred by traffic woes, delays, and potholes, a select band of illustrious golfers collected at Ashridge Golf Club. The weather was chilly to start but dry, and gradually sunny intervals were warm and welcome.  

The course was in overall tip-top condition, even though the slowish speed of the greens took some time getting used to – in fact some of us never did quite adjust sufficiently!  As usual the general setting and natural grandeur of Ashridge was impressive, especially with the rhododendrons and bluebells coming into bloom.

We played from yellow tees which were markedly more forward than we’ve ever played, and which contributed to good scoring and a median Stableford score of 31 points.

Nearest the Pin on Hole 3 was Andy Thomas, and Nearest the Pin in 2 on Hole 12 was Mark Cranstoun. Only one name appeared on each list, reflecting the difficulty of those holes in particular.

In the Stableford Singles, in Third place was Andy Thomas with 39 points. Two scores of 41 points occupied the top two places. On a countback of the last 3 holes, Nick Longman took Second place, and the Winner of the Jubilee Vase was new member Steve Whelan. Congratulations Steve.

The Morning Team Prize was won by the team of Nick Longman, Mark Cranstoun, and Andy Thomas with a masterful 92 points, well ahead of the plucky 89 points of Hugh Pigot, Keith Waite, and Chris Green.

Following an excellent lunch, the Afternoon Greensomes competition was closely contested by 4 Pairs, who were separated by a range of only 4 points. Runners-Up Brian Clark & Mark Cranstoun were pipped by Andy Thomas & Chris Green whose 38 points took the Anniversary Rose Bowl.

Ashridge is always a pleasure to play and visit, while the reception and attentiveness of the staff is exemplary. A great day for TEGS, with thanks to Captain John Smith for providing the prizes to me, Keith Waite and Peter Gunn for their administration, and to Match Manager Neil Gorman for seamlessly handling the day’s event.

The next TEGS meeting is at Denham on 2nd June. I look forward to seeing you there.

Best regards, Chris Green – Vice Captain