News Archive: Winter League Results 16/11/08 S Atkins & G
Roberts halved A Robb & R Hancock Big Scalp For Mick and John Mick Beech of Middleton
by Wirksworth and playing partner John Mabbott of Belper caused the
biggest upset in this weekend's winter league matchplay competition
by defeating last year's winners Andrew Dutton and Mike Taylor of Longford
by 1 hole. A topsy turvy game saw Mick and John take an early lead in
the match going 2 up only to be pegged back on the first 4 holes of
the back 9 and going 3 down. However a stunning comeback from the 15th
hole onwards saw the pair win every hole and claim a one hole win. Leon
Lewis and John Taylor got over last weeks loss by winning 4 and 2 against
Will Austin and Sean Fernihough who had won the previous day by claiming
a walkover. Paul Barnett and James Bainbridge played golf the way it
should be done by recording a gross better ball score of 8 under with
Paul claiming 3 birdies and James having a tremendous back 9 holes on
the way to recording 5 birdies and compounding Mick Carter and Steve
Walwyn to a second straight defeat by 3 and 2. Graham Harbey and Alex
White's finstart continues with a second straight win and recording
a 3 and 2 beating of Lister Cumming and Tony Broadhurst. Steve Atkins
and G Roberts had a great tussle with Andy Robb and Rob Hancock with
the game ending all square. Ray Keen and Stuart Hoad got a win under
their belts over Paul Siddall and John Hitchcock and the Wild brothers
Adam and Mark started their campaign with a 2 and 1 win over Chris Sothers
and Trevor McCabe. Scramble Winners Brave The Elements Blustery and wet conditions were the order of the first weekend of November with members competing in a Texas Scramble Competition. On Saturday the Team of 4 winners were Steve Bryan, Lee Belfield, Pete Bembridge and Alan Tassel with a nett 54.9. The team of 3 winners were Graham Harbey, Alex White and Pete Sutton with a nett score of 59.7. Sunday's Scores returned a little higher with an increase in wind speed making scoring that little harder. Eventual victors in the teams of 4 were Lister Cumming, Stuart Knight, Mark Purrett and Phil Green with a nett 56.1. Team of 3 winners were Cliff Cason, Roger Barnett and Barry Moore on 63.9. The main season has now come to a close at the Wyaston Road Club and the winter competitions have started over the weekend. This comprimises mainly of the Winter League Matchplay Pairs Competiton and the Winter Eclectic Competition. Early results in from the Winter League Matches saw easy wins for last year's winners Andrew Dutton and Mike Taylor over Mick Carter and Steve Walwyn 5&3, Runners up from last year Ian Atterbury and Jim Platt crushed John Taylor and Leon Lewis by the same score. There were other victories for Steve Atkins and G Roberts over Mick Beech and John Mabbott, Aiden Blake and Jim Robinson saw off Neil Hobson and Julian Setford, Sean Fernihough and Will Austin beat Ray Keen and Stuart Hoad 3&1 and Graham Harbey and Alex White winning over John Brommage and Andy Pearson. Tickets are still available for this Saturday Evenings "Las Vegas Night" at the clubhouse priced £10. Casino games and an Elvis Tribute Band are the order of the evening with tickets also available from Nigel's Butchers and all are welcome
Ashbourne Golf Club held the Autumn Greensomes Competition over the last weekend in October, a pairs competition in which both players teed off, then taking the best drive out of the two and playing alternative shots to finish the hole. A reduced handicap system saw many pairs struggle in the damp and windy conditions struggle to beat a par score with in the end only 3 pairs managing to do so. Victory for the Captain of Ashbourne Golf Club Peter Cliffe of Marchington and playing partner Gavin Ratcliffe of Mayfield with a nett score of 65.6. Peter playing off a 8 handicap and Gavin playing off 12 had a reduced joint handicap of 8.4 for the day. The pair played on the Saturday in conditions described by the Captain as "as tougher than the Sunday" in a fine round of golf that saw a gross of just 3 over par a 74 returned. A front 9 score of 38 saw a birdie 4 on the par 5 8th hole but the back 9 was where the winning score was made with a faultless par 36 returned which included birdies at holes 13 and 17. Peter said after "Ive thoroughly enjoyed my year as Captain and if anything this is the icing on the cake, we played wonderful out there today in extremely difficult conditions". Runners up were John Taylor of Wirksworth handicap 12 and Leon Lewis of Mayfield handicap 4 with a nett 67.8. A front 9 gross of 33 really set the pair on the way with birdie 2's on holes 6 and 9. However with the Greensomes title at their mercy a disasterous 7 on the par 5 15th hole and an 8 on the par 5 17th took its toll on the pair who let a winning score slip away. In third spot were Mick Carter (hcp 14) and Steve Walwyn (hcp 9) with a nett 69. This weekend sees the start of the pairs Winter League with entries still being accepted. The club is also offering a winter golf membership package running from now until the end of February at a cost of just £119, which could be a perfect early xmas present. On Saturday 15th November a Las Vegas Night is being held in the clubhouse with casino games followed by an Elvis Tribute Act after taking place in the Wyaston Road Clubhouse. Tickets are priced £10 from Nigel's Butchers or the Golf Club and all are welcome. The Club have also announced a New Years Eve Party is to be held at the clubhouse with entertainment from Ivan Ball's Band priced at £20 and transport can also be provided from Ashbourne Town Centre, contact the club on 01335 347960 for further details or Nigel's Butchers. Peter
Cliffe Gavin Ratcliffe Nick's Just Champion Ashbourne
Golf Day held the Champions Trophy on Sunday 19th October, a medal competition
for all members who had either won outright a cup or trophy during the
year or one of the monthly medals. Overcast conditions and a cool breeze
meant scoring would always be tough on the day, with preferred lies
on the fairways aiding players to clean and place their ball. A one
under score of 70 was the winning score on the day with local builder
Nick Tompkinson following up the previous weeks win in the Autumn Stableford
to take the Champion of Champions Title. Nick's Card held no birdie
scores but a fine front 9 score of 41 which could of been so much better
but unfortunately Nick had a treble bogey on the notorious par 3 9th
hole. The back 9 score of 46 though gave Nick a gross score of 87 off
his 17 handicap to clinch the Champions of Champions Trophy. Nick said
after the round "I was delighted to qualify last weekend and Ive
carried on that form into today but I didnt think a nett 70 would of
been good eugh, so im suprised but highly delighted and it tops off
a fine couple of weeks for myself". Runner up was Pierre Weir,
another qualifier from the previous week who also carried his form into
the final singles event of the year with a nett 70 off his 10 handicap
and just losing out on a countback. Simon Lockwood with a nett 71 and
Simon Walwyn with a nett 72 took the minor honours in Division 1. The
minor placings in Division 2 went to Graham Sinclair with a nett 73
and Mick Carter with a nett 74. M Roberts took the honours in Division
3 with a nett 72 off his 19 handicap followed in by P Jessup nett 75
and Martyn Tunaley nett 82. On the undercard
of the day's main Champion's Trophy Event there was also an individual
medal competition for those members not fortunate to qualify for the
competition. Played off the white tees there were some fine scores returned.
Leon Lewis of Mayfield took the Division 1 honours by returning a gross
72 nett 67 off his 5 handicap, seeing the Mayfield resident's handicap
reduced to 4 in the process. A birdie at the 8th hole saw Leon score
37 on the front 9 and the damage was really set upon the back 9 with
a tremendous birdie 3 on the Wyaston Road Course's toughest hole the
par 4 12th hole then followed up with back to back birdies on holes
16 and 17 to complete a 35 return. Leon said "Ive had a solid season
and look forward to next year already and hope to lower my handicap
again and try and gain a regular slot in the Scratch Team". James
"Bazooka" Bainbridge took the runners up berth with a nett
72 off his 3 handicap followed in by K Halford with a nett 74 off his
12 handicap. The Wilson story stas in Division 2 where Steve "Wal"
Wilson won with a gross 86 off his 18 handicap to return a nett 68.
A front 9 of 42 was followed up by a back 9 of 44 which included a birdie
2 on the par 3 14th Road Hole. Wal said after "I played the front
9 well but the back 9 let me down a touch although the two on 14 was
a big help". Trevor McCabe came 2nd with a nett 69 off his 15 handicap
followed in by Paul Harrison with a nett 70 off his 13 handicap. Pete
Wilson was the other side to the Wilson story with Wal's Dad doing the
damage in Division 3 and winning with a nett 72 off his 26 handicap.
Not to be outdone by his son a 48 front 9 which included a birdie 4
on the par 5 8th hole and a back 9 hitting the bullseye with a 50 saw
Pete win the Division. Mark Purrett took the runner up spot with a nett
74 off his 19 handicap and P Fewtrell took 3rd spot with a nett 75 off
his 28 handicap. This weekend sees a texas scramble team of 3 and 4
take place over both days of the weekend. The following weekend sees
te start of the Winter League Matchplay Pairs Competition get under
way with entrance forms now available from the Pro Shop. Steve
Wilson Barrie Continues Fine Run The Autumn Stableford
was the last individual competition of the golfing season to take place
on Sunday 12th October at Ashbourne Golf Club with members enjoying
a fine day to end the season on weather wise. Dave Barrie Senior carried
on where he left off from the previos week with a fine return of 42
stableford points to capture Division 1 with ease. The 5 handicapper
was even heard to be singing to the recent number 1 in the charts by
the King of Leon but changing the words by singing "My golf is
on fire!!" coming down the 18th fairway much to the amusement of
playing partner Les Birkett. Dave carded a front 9 score of 19 but followed
up the back 9 with a cracking score 23 points with a card littered with
birdies. Holes 2,10,13,15 and 17 all victims of Dave's relentless scoring
which powered him to victory. Dave said "Ive put it down to practicing
hard through the summer and to score this amount of points at the back
end of the season is pleasing, my MD irons are going really well and
im hitting themsolid". Dave
Barrie Snr - His Golf is on Fire
M "Bud"
Weild lost out on a countback to Nick also scoring 39 points off his
14 handicap with Dave Nash of Wirksworth taking 3rd place with 38 off
his 17 handicap. Division 3 saw the closest finish out of all the divisions
with no less than 4 players all tied on 33 points. After a countback
it was David Hurt of Hulland Ward who was confirmed the winner with
Ashbourne's Neil Tyler and Derby's John Brommage next in. This weekend
sees the Autumn Greensomes being played over both days of the weekend
which is a pairs event. Also this weekend sees the Wyaston Road Club
hold an Open Day over the course of the weekend which is for beginners
and experienced golfers. A free round of 9 holes, powerpoint presentation,
tour of the club facilities and a special winter golf membership package
are on offer. Super Chuzzy Earns Medal The
aptly named October Medal was played for on Saturday 11th at Ashbourne
Golf Club with members having to face a dismal day with overcast and
drizzle affecting play and carry of the ball now getting not much roll
at all. The winner of Division 1 was Pierre Weir scoring a fine gross
78 off his 11 handicap giving him a nett return of 67. The highlight
of Pierre's round was a fine birdie 4 on the par 5 8th hole with a front
9 score of just one over gross on 36 and a back 9 score of 42 giving
him victory. Jamie "Bazooka" Bainbridge had to settle for
the runner up spot after saying "I couldnt of shot any lower"
and recording a level par 71 gross nett 68 off his 3 handicap, with
Mark Rayner taking the bronze position in the division. Jamie "Bazooka" Bainbridge - Best Gross Level Par 71 Jason "Chuzzy"
Clowes was all smiles after shooting the best gross score of his golfing
career with a gross 77 off his 13 handicap giving him a magnificent
nett 64, a seven under return. Jason found the two's club on the par
3 third hole getting him into the money and followed that up on the
ultra tough by-pass hole, scoring a birdie 3 on the 446 yard par 4.
The back 9 really shone for Jason with a return of 37 with the front
9 scoring a 40. Jason said after his triumphant round "Ive had
a bit of an up and down season and not really put anthing good together.
I had altered one or two things with my grip and swing this year but
just went back to basics today and its paid off well and im delighted
with that score". Sean Fernihough continued his fine season with a gross 79 nett 66 off his 13 handicap which came down to 12 after this performance to take runners up berth despite suffering from a slight form of the duck draw virus which has affected several golfers at the club this year. Andy Gallimore was third with a nett 67 off his 16 handicap. Division 3 winner was Peter Jessup who scored a nett 67 off his 21 handicap with a front 9 of 43 and back 9 of 45 good enough to take the spoils. Roy Atkinson of Ashbourne took the runner up spot off his 28 handicap with a nett 68 and just saw off John Hitchcock of Mayfield on a countback. Austin Powers To Victory The September Medal was competed for last Sunday, postponed from its original date due to the waterlogging of the Wyaston Road course last month. The day saw contrasting weather conditions with the early starters greeted by rainfall till late morning with the afternoon starters having the best of the conditions with late autumn sunshine being the order for the rest of the day. A disappointing
field turned out for the penultimate singles competition of the year
which reflected in the standard scratch scoring being adjusted to 73
from 71 for par. Division 1 was all down to a battle between the Father
and Son combination of Dave Barrie Senior and Junior who both topped
the table with nett 73's. The countback had to decide things and it
was Dave Senior who came out smiling and putting one over his son with
a 38 back 9 good enough to take the spoils. A steady round by Dave Senior
was good enough and spoke afterwards saying " I had a disaster
on the 3rd hole putting it in the holly bush and finished with a triplebogey
but I stuck in there had a decent back 9 although its still suprising
to win with a 73". Dave Lowe took 3rd place with a nett 75. Dave Barrie Senior - Div 1 Winner Ashbourne member
Will Austin took the honours in Division 2 with a gross 85 nett 70 off
his 15 handicap. A front 9 score of 42 and coming home in 43 meant Will
played one under his handicap and said after "I hit it my irons
pretty solid out there today but my putting let me down a touch but
its nice to get into Champions Day with this win under my belt".
Mark Rayner was runner up with a nett 71 off his 13 handicap and Andy
Gallimore took 3rd place with a nett 73 off his 16 handicap. Will
Austin - Top Dog in Div 2 Paul Higton - Div 3 Winner This weekend sees Champions Day on Sunday for all those members who have qualified aswell as an additional competition also being put on for members off the white tees. Anyone interested in taking up golf is highly encouraged to visit Ashbourne Golf Club on the weekend of 25th/26th of October where an Open Day is being held. A friendly greeting is assured and the day includes a free 9 holes of golf, powerpoint presentation, a tour of the club facilities and a special winter membership offer. Contact Andrew Smith on 01335 347960 to book a time.
The last weekend of September saw the Captain's Tankard played for in a pair's competition in a four ball better ball bogey format at Ashbourne Golf Club. The sunny end to September saw the fairways in fine condition although the greens had been pencil tined, overseeded and top dressed earlier in the week to allow air and nutrients to get into the greens and therefore made putting conditions testing at times. The weekend also brought contrasting weather conditions with Saturday being a lovely sunny and still autumn's day with Sunday being overcast and much colder than the previous day. A score of around +8 was always the rough target for victory in this competition which was contested over the 2 days by over 60 pairs. When the results were processed on Monday morning the winning score was +7 and won on a countback by the in form John Taylor of Wirksworth and Middleton by Wirksworth's Mick Beech. John playing off a reduced handicap of 8 and Mick receiving 11 shots had a fine start by scorng a +3 score after 9 holes with Mick doing most of the damage with 3 plus scoring holes on 5,7 and 9. The back 9 saw John coming into the reckoning scoring on all holes between 11 and 15 which included 4 pars and a birdie 2 on the par 3 14th road hole which earned the pair a quick burst +4 score and took the team's total to +7. John said after "Ive hit a bit of a purple patch of late with a bit of form which carried on into today and Mick is a fine partner in these better ball competitions and I was glad to have him on my side today".  John Taylor  Mick Beech Runners Up and narrowly missing out on the Tankard due to a countback were Scratch Team members Simon Walwyn and James Bainbridge who performed superbly to also score a +7 return. Simon receiving 3 shots scored birdies on holes 1,7 and 9 with an eagle also on 8 to set up a front 9 score of +5. The back 9 proved a little harder with a +2 score with holes 12 and 15 being the plus holes. In third place there was a tie with G Sinclair and H Frost just seeing off Darren Hooley and Matt O'Shaugnessy on a countback. The Brown and Bailey competition was completed a week last Friday with John Searl and Robert Newton beating Dave Lowe and Pete Robinson 3&2. With the season now closing in there is a double header this weekend with the October Medal played for on Saturday and the Autumn Stableford contested on Sunday. Ashbourne Golf Club is also delighted to announce an Open Weeked on the 25th and 26th October. Have you got what it takes to become the next Tiger Woods or follow in the footsteps of Padraignbsp;Harrington? Beginners and experienced golfers who are interested in taking up the sport are more than welcome to come up to the Wyaston Road Club to enjoy a powerpoint presentation, tour of the club, a free round of 9 holes of golf, and use of the practice ground and putting green facilities. Also on offer will be a winter golf membership package at a discounted rate which maybe of interest for an early xmas present. Interested parties are advised to book in advance with chosen day by contacting the Pro Shop on 01335 347960. Magnificent Turn Out For The Grundy The Mick Grundy Am-Am Team of 4 competition which is now in its eleventh year had an absolute tremendous turn out with 33 teams entering the competition and seeing 132 players out on the Wyaston Road Course in glorious Autumn sunshine. The competition held in memory of one the finest golfers seen at Ashbourne Golf Club continues to grow and grow each year with over £2500 raised this year in aid of the Anthony Nolan Trust which raises money for Leukaemia. Teams from afar and wide entered the competition with one from Kedlaston Park which included former Nottingham Forest and Derby County Legend Kenny Burns. A shotgun start at 11.30 started proceedings with most tees double stacked and saw the fairways packed with conditions ideally suited to the golfer. The gross team prize was won by Coxmoor Golf Club of Nottingham with an 8 under score of 134 who consisted of Martin Scothern, Mark Betteridge, Fraser Darrington and Richard Jeffs. The first
prize in the best nett competition was won by the Burton Barrels from
Burton Golf Club with a score of 127 and who consisted of Simon Jacks,
Ian Munroe, John Jenkins and Gary Marler. Runners up were local PGA
Pro's Steve Astle and James Whatley's team on 129 with two Ashbourne
teams taking 3rd & 4th place on 130 who consisted of Duncan Sowter,
John Lambert, Simon Walwyn and Sean Fernihough who edged out James Bainbridge,
Jonathan Milne, Paul Barnett and Steve Walwyn on a countback. With the
clubhouse packed to the rafters the teams were presented their prizes
by Mr & Mrs Grundy. A raffle was held with some great prizes on
offer which included tickets to a european tour event and the chance
to play the Forest of Arden Golf Course and alot of credit was passed
on to Dave Barrie Senior who did tremendous work in selling tickets
on the day. Both the Coxmoor and Burton winning teams gave very good
speeches on duly winning their prizes giving thanks to Ashbourne Golf
Club and hoping next year the competition would grow again. This weekend
sees the Autumn Stableford played for on Sunday off the white tees and
a social medal off the yellow tees on Saturday. 
John Taylor of Wirksworth  Andy Pearson Men's Matchplay Winner 2008 Ruthless Rob Wins Centenary Cup Rob Bradley has had his named engraved on the Centenary Cup this year after a fine return of a nett 65 off his 16 handicap took the competition. Played in a medal format off the white tees the contest saw over 100 members compete in a closely fought competition. Highlight of Rob's round was without doubt a birdie 3 on the par 4 5th hole which saw him return 41 on the front 9. The back 9 was even better was a gross 40 scored and parring in from the 15th onwards to record a gross 81. Rob said after "Ive had a good season managing to get my handicap down and by winning this means I have progressed again which is great". Division 1 winner was John Taylor of Wirksworth who recorded a gross 78 off his 12 handicap giving him a nett 66. A birdie 4 on the 8th and a great birdie 3 on the 13th set John up with 39 on the front and back seeing his handicap reduced to 11. Runners up were Ashbourne Men Ken McKeown and Dave Lowe. Division 2 was won by Andy Pearson of Oakwood with a nett off his 17 handicap with a birdie 4 on the 15th hole the highlight. Runners up were Iain Mcgachie and Max Lee. Division 3 winner was Dean Martin with a nett 69 off his 20 handicap which included a birdie 3 on the 13th hole. Martin Hellaby and P Jessop took the minor honours. The September medal was hit by the recent wet weather which unfortunately closed the course due to waterlogging and now has to be rescheduled for the first weekend of October. The Men's Matchplay Final was concluded recently in a closely fought match between Ashbourne's Dave Lowe and Oakwood's Andy Pearson with Andy winning 3 & 2 and taking the title. Nigel Brown's Charity golf day was held on Tuesday with a fine turnout of over 30 teams competiting. The course was in fine condition after the recent wet spell and the winners on 95 points were Central Flooring which consisited of Mark Andrews, Chris Keeling, Craig Brown and Simon Wint. This weekend sees the Captain's Tankard played for over the course of Saturday andS unday which is a pairs event. Burkhill Cup Win For Lockwood A
fine day's weather greeted the members competing in the Burkhill Cup
at Ashbourne Golf Club on Saturday 23rd of August. Just under 100 members
fought out the competition that was eventually determind by a countback
to determind the winner. Simon Lockwood of Hullard Ward was declared
the winner with a fine gross 77 nett 67 off his 10 handicap to continue
his fine season at the Wyaston Road club. The front 9 score of 37 gross
and back 9 of 40 was good enough to take the spoils and lift the cup.
Winner in Division 1 and just losing out on a countback was Ashbourne's
Simon Griffiths, another player enjoying a fine season by firing the
lowest gross of the day with a 70 which included 4 birdies on holes
6,7,8 and 15 in an awesome display of golf by the 3 handicapper. Runners
up were Adam Wild and Tom Donnelly with nett 68 and 69 respectively.
Division 2 winner and also just missing out on the cup was R Donnelly
with a nett 67 off his 14 handicap with a great 38 gross on the front
followed by 43 on the back9. Bridesmaid again was Terry Brown playing
good golf but just not enough to get into the winner's enclosure finding
second place again with a nett 69 off his 17 handicap and the world
famous Dougie Sellers again playing under his handicap of 16 with a
nett 69 aswell. Martin Tunaley another member in fine form of recent
weeks took the Division 3 prize with a nett 67 off his 22 handicap with
a 42 front and 47 back 9 to win from B Hayer and P Bembridge. The Dove Valley
Trophy was played for on Sunday 24th August in a 4 ball better ball
stableford competition. The scoring was very good with a 3/4 handicap
allowance given in this pairs competition which saw all but 4 pairs
achieve a par 36 point or better score obtained. The names to be engraved
on the trophy this year will be Ken Bainbridge of Swinscoe and John
Brommage of Derby who scored 43 points. Their card got off to a great
start when 22 handicapper John had a birdie 3 on the first hole securing
4 points and with Ken handicap of 6 scoring a birdie on the 8th hole
the men had a fantastic front 9 score of 24 points. The back 9 achieved
a total of 19 points which included a fine par on the last by John with
a shot securing 3 points and the winning the trophy by 1 point. John
said after "It was a good combination really with Ken off such
a low handicap and myself quite high and we both had our moments out
there. As they say its certainly a feather in your cap when you win
a trophy and we are both delighte with the win". There were 5 pairs
tied on 42 points showing just how close the competition was with most
of them cursing a missed putt or bad chip which could of won them the
trophy. Mick Beech and Anthony Bates took the runner up berth by means
of a countback. Griff Fires a 66 The
Bank Holiday Monday Medal was played for in hazy sunshine at the Wyaston
Road Club with an astonishing score posted by the in form Simon Griffiths
of Ashbourne. Simon only rejoined the club in the spring following a
6 year absence but the competition saw the season's best gross posted
by any member at the club with a sublime gross 66 which was only a shot
off the course record. A front 9 score of 33 which included birdies
at holes 6 and 8 combined with 7 pars on the remaining holes set the
3 handicapper on his way. The back 9 contained birdies at holes 13,15,17
and 18 with another 4 pars and the only bogey of his round on the hardest
hole on the course the par 4 12th hole. The round left Simon with his
best ever gross score at the club and a nett 63 which saw his handicap
reduced to 2. Playing partners George Ditchfield and Steve Walwyn watched
the round unfold in disbelief and could only applaud the magnificent
birdie on the last to seal a round of golf that any professional golfer
wouldof been proud to achieve. Simon said after "Ive hit a real
purple patch of late and my last 3 rounds of golf have all been under
par and im playing real solid golf which has delivered a great score.
Steve was pushing me all the way on the back 9 and it kept me focused
and in the zone and it gets me down to 2 handicap now which is great".
Nick & Malc Triumph in Open Ashbourne Golf Club's flagship event of the golfing season took place at the Wyaston Road Club on Sunday 17th August when "The Ashbourne Open" was contested for off the white tees. The competition is played as a men's pairs competiton off a 3/4 handicap allowance in medal play. A good turnout out saw the tee allocated from 7.30am through till 3.15pm. Heavy overnight rain threatened to spoil procedings at one stage but the greens were immaculate on the day although there were one or two heavy patches on the fairways in places the course played well. With the greens holding shots into them it was no suprise that there were many good scores returned on the day as the par 71 course took a bashing with some excellent golf played. Winners of the famous Ashbourne Open Claret Jug for 2008 was Ashbourne Member Nick Prince of Roston and playing partner Malcom Toothill of Kedlaston Park Golf Club. Both players played their part in recording an excellent nett score of 62, with Nick (Hcp 11 rec 8) haing gross birdies on holes 1 and 7 and Malcom (Hcp 17 rec 13) firing one himself on the 17th going on to score a nett 30 on the front 9 and 32 coming home. Nick said "Ive been on a bit of a run of recent and feel my game has come on well this year and winning this competition on your home track is always very special as it only comes round once a year". Malcom said "Nick played some good golf out there today and carried me a little on the front 9 but Ive really enjoyed the day and its a great win for us both". A short speech was given by Nick upon receiving the Ashbourne Claret Jug from Captain Peter Cliffe, thanking greenkeepers, caterers, officials at the club and Malcom for a fantastic day and a very proud moment in his golfing career at the club. Another nett 62 was recorded by visiting pair C Pennington (Hcp 10) and R Walters (Hcp 12) who were only denied by a countback, coming home in 33 and going out in 29. Next in were John Griffiths of Clifton (Hcp 12) and Rob Bradley (Hcp 16) with a nett 63 as o going out in 29 but finding the back 9 more of a test coming home in 34. Best Gross prize went to father and son combination of Roger and Paul Barnett with a one under gross 70 score. It was more than fair to say that Paul (Hcp 6) did most of the damage with a near faultless round including a 2 under gross score on the back 9 on his own with Roger (Hcp 19) providing back up on the front 9 especially on the 5th hole with a nett 4 recorded and going out in 36 with a nett 64 scored by the partnership. Griff Wins Medal The August Medal was played for on Saturday 16th, seen as a pre warm up competition before The Ashbourne Open the following day. Conditions were kind to the members up at the Wyaston Road Club as the forecast rain did not arrive until tea time. Many members however struggled with a select few only managing par or better. One of those that did was Ashbourne Lad Simon Griffiths who fired a fantastic 3 under gross score of 68 off his 4 handicap leaving him with a nett 64 and storming to the Division 1 title. Matching Dave Bainbridge's early season score also of a gross 68, Simon's season has been very good since rejoining the club earlier this year and still holds the skill and ability he had when in the Junior ranks of the golf club. The first hole couldnt of started any better with a birdie 3 followed by an eagle 3 on the par 5 eighth hole with the only blemish being a bogey on the par 4 fourth hole. The back nine was superb for "Griff" with 8 pars and a birdie 4 on the par 5 17th hole ment he brought home the bacon in style. Griff said after "That's about as good as it gets, its the best knock Ive had round Ashbourne simple as that and im really proud of a score like that, I certainly found the zone today!". Runner up to Griff was youngster Dan Harbey with a gross 78 off his 12 handicap leaving him with a nett 66 and Pete Wilson of Clifton took third place with a nett 68 also off his 12 handicap. Division 2 winner was Mayfield's Gavin Ratcliffe making a welcome return to the winners enclosure. Gavin shot a fine 79 off his13 handicap leaving him with a nett 66 with the highlight being a birdie 4 on the 17th after 38 on the front 9 and 41 coming home. Runner up was Chris Sothers with a nett 67 and I Mcgachie with a nett 71 both off their 13 handicaps respectively. Uttoxeter's Andy Nicholls stole the show in Division 3 with a nett 69 off his 20 handicap. A terrible start on the 1st saw Andy record an 8 but after that things got going with 45 on the front and 44 coming home with a par fins h on the closing 3 holes the highlight. D Martin and D Hughes to the minor berths with nett 72's. This Saturday sees The Centenary Cup played for off the white tees in an individual medal format. Neil's The Rose Played
at Ashbourne Golf Club on Sunday 10th August, The Rose Cup was held
in a bogey competition format with hazy sunshine the order of the day
but a strong breeze made conditions testing especially in the afternoon.
In one of the most closely contested competitions of the year at the
Wyaston Road Club, Neil Glover of Hilton held off strong opposition
to capture the Rose Cup with +4 score off his 9 handicap. A plus 2 score
on the front 9 set Neil on his way but the last 4 holes really told
the story coming home in them with a plus 2 score including a birdie
2 on the tough par 3 16th hole. Neil commented after by saying "I
perhaps got the best of the weather early on in the morning and I new
plus 4 in the breeze would be a fair target to catch but ive only just
won it and its very pleasing". Division
1 winner and just edged out on a countback was Derby's Andy Robb showing
a bit of form. Playing off his 11 handicap Andy also went plus 2 on
the front 9 and plus 2 on the back 9 with a birdie 4 on the par 5 18th
the highlight of his round. Taking the minor honours all on a plus 4
score in Division 1 were Leon Lewis and Ashbourne's Chris Carter. Division
2 winner was local plumber Michael "Geordie" Carter of Ashbourne
with a plus 3 score off his 14 handicap. Mick's score could of been
far superior as he was at plus 6 after 12 holes with a beauty of a 2
on the par 3 third hole being the highlight. However a little bit of
fatigue and a couple of lapses of concentration saw Mick's score falter
to plus 3 but still good enough to take the divisional prize. Mick said
after "Ive had a bit of grief from the lads calling me Mr Whip
because Ive had a bit of a slice come over the last few months but today
I went steady with a 4 iron off most tees and hit it straight down the
middle although the last ew holes were disappointing after getting into
such a good position". Runner
up was Top of the Hill man Martyn Murphy with a plus 2 score followed
in by Sean Fernihough on the same score. Division 3 winner was local
builder Nick Tompkinson with a plus 3 score. Nick somehow managed to
claw back his card after being at minus 3 after 5 holes to be only minus
1 at the turn. A fantastic back 9 though saw Nick record a plus 4 score
off his 19 handicap with a fine finishing flurry of a plus 2 score over
the last 4 holes to see him return a plus 3 score on the day. Runner up was M Montague and Derby's John Brommage both on plus 1. The Senior's Monthly Medal saw divisional wins for Dave Horsley nett 70, Pete Sutton nett 66 and D Calladine nett 68. This bank holiday weekend sees the course rammed with competitions over all 3 days of the weekend giving members a fine choice of competitions to play in. First up on Saturday is the Burkhill Cup played in a medal format. On Sunday the Dove Valley Trophy is to be contested in a four ball better ball stableford competition and on Monday the Bank Holiday Medal takes place all off the white tees. Members are also reminded that it is Nigel Brown's charity golf day on Tuesday September 16th for the team of 4 competition and entries are now being accepted for the competition which is always well supported. For Further information about the event please contact the pro shop on 01335 347960. Scratch Team Close in on Title Ashbourne Golf Club's Scratch Team look to be heading on the way to winning Division 3 of the Derbyshire Scratch League after a fine victory away to nearest rivals Alfreton Golf Club on Saturday defeating them 6 points to 4. Wins for Jamie Bainbridge, Dave Barrie Snr and Simon Walwyn sealed the win with defeats for Dave Bainbridge and Jonathan Milne. With a total of 63 points from their 8 games played the title looks to be in the bag with only 2 games to go in the season. Hobson's Glory On
Saturday 2nd August the Derek Earp Trophy was played for off the white
tees in memory of the former Captain of Ashbourne Golf Club. The individual
stableford format was contested with conditions favouring the member's
with hazy sunshine and light breeze the order of the day. Many scores
were of a par score of 36 and above reflecting the decent condition
of the course and playability. Winner on the day was Neil Hobson of
Derby with a fine score of 43 points. The 13 handicapper had a tremendous
front 9 scoring gross 37 giving him 22 points with the highlight being
a cracking birdie 4 on the par 5 8th hole. The back 9 proved very fruitful
aswell scoring 21 points with the only blip coming on the hardest hole
the 12th with a no score being made. The ardent Nottingham Forest supporter
was delighted with his round adding "The last few weeks ive really
hit a purple patch and its a nice win and nice to get the handicap down
aswell". Division 1 winner
was Ashbourne Joiner Anthony Bates who fired a fine 42 point haul off
his 9 handicap. A gross score of 74 was the best of the season for Anthony
who had birdies on holes 8 and 13 and returned front and back 9 scores
of 21 points. Dean Higton was just nudged out on a countback to take
second place with Darren Hooley in 3rd place on 40 points. Runners up were D Clark and P Mawdsley both on 38 points. This weekend sees the flagship event at Ashbourne Golf Club take place in the Ashbourne Open, a men's pairs better ball medal competition on Sunday. A few spaces are still available at going to press. This Friday sees the Ashbourne Rotary Club hold a team of 4 charity event with spaces still available. Anyone interested in raising a team is asked to phone John Griffiths for further details on 01335 343963 or 07786114767 and on Saturday the August Medal takes place Simon Capture's Presidents Putter Simon
Walwyn was the victor in one of the most prestigious trophies to win
at Ashbourne Golf Club, The President's Putter. Known as the Player's
Major the competition starts out as an individual medal format played
over two rounds of 18 holes with the top 8 best nett scores going through
into the knockout matchplay stages. Simon's quarter final match saw
him defeat Dave Titterton on the last hole in a very close match. The
4 handicapper then went on to play Stuart Knight of Rolleston on Dove
in the semi final and won 6 and 4 to set up a final against the in form
Sean Fernihough who had defeated Nick Prince in the semis 3 and 2. With
Sean receiving 9 shots in the final it looked a hard task on paper for
Simon to win, but with Sean suffering with a bad bout of the shanks
it almost a walkover with Simon winning by a margin of 8 and 7. Simon
said after "Im chuffed to bits to win as I also won this back in
2004 and its always regarded as one of the hardest competitions to win,
but Sean sffered out there today as I expected a tough match". Ace Deano Dean Higton was fortunate to hit his first ever hole in one on Ashbourne Golf Club's 14th hole on Saturday 26th July. Playing off the yellow tees 5 handicapper Dean selected a 9 iron and flew the ball 142 yards straight into the hole with fellow playing partners Dennis Dawson and Jason Clowes looking on in awe. Dennis said "Ive seen an ace on the old 9 hole course but not on the new 18 and it was a pleasure". Dean said "We were debating if it had gone in or not as we never saw the ball bounce and our view was a little restricted from the tee but the ball was all over the flag in the air and walking up to the green we couldnt see the ball and blow me there it was in the hole". After the high fives had been done Dean returned to the clubhouse and duly bought the drinks.  Nick Takes Cavendish Prize Captain
of Ashbourne Golf Club Peter Cliffe held his Captain's Away Day at Cavendish
Golf Club, Buxton on Friday and was supported by 43 members of the club
embarking on the short journey down the A515. Hazy sunshine greeted
the players after an overnight downpour left the Buxton course in fine
playing condition, who set about their task playing in an individual
medal format. The best gross prize was won by Nick Prince of Roston
who shot a fine 76 nett 65, a 3 under round off his 11 handicap to win.
Nick said "Ive had a good season playing very consistent and Ive
got through to the semis of the Matchplay this time around and my game's
in good shape and its always nice to come to another track and play
under your handicap". Nick was presented with his prizes by the
Captain and was greeted to warm applause. Best nett of the day was won
by the club's President Tony Broadhurst with a nett 68 and Ashbourne's
Jim Platt took the runners up berth with a nett 69 off his 22 handicap.
There was also a team prize with he best 2 from 3 scores on each hole
being counted and this was won by Geoff Clarence, John Mabbott and Jim
Platt with a 126 score. Nearest the pin on the 9th hole was won by Middleton
by Wirksworth's Mick Beech and Pete Robinson took the prize on the 15th
landing just a metre and a half from the pin. The special prize of the
day was won by Alan Warr for continuing his round after an uninspiring
day. The Captain then thanked various members for their help on the
day and thanked all for their attendance. Special thanks was also given
to Dougie Sellers for keeping everyone amused during the meal with his
in house entertainment which nearly made Ron Hill's sides split from
laughing.
Dethick Cup Win For Barnett Paul
Barnett of Osmaston took the Dethick Cup on Sunday 20th July with a
fine score of 41 stableford points off his 7 handicap. Played off the
white tees in what seemed gale force wind conditions yet again up on
Wyaston Road, Paul scored 21 points on the front 9 and 20 points coming
home. Playing to a scratch score on the front 9 of a gross 35 birdies
were hit on the par 4 4th hole on the par 5 479 yard 8th hole. The highlight
without doubt though was an eagle 3 on the par 5 528 yard 15th hole.
Paul said after "I learned quite a bit from the windy conditions
of the scratch cup last weekend and so it made club selection that little
bit easier but by eck was the wind up today! I thought around 40 points
was the target and its nice to get the name up above the bar in the
clubhouse after today". Division 1 winner was Adam Wild of Derby who was the first out at 7am. Adam had 4 birdies on his card at holes 1,4,15 and 17 to return 38 points. Runner up was Simon Griffiths who continues his fine season with 37 points followed in by Dave Barrie Jnr on 35 points. Division 2 was won by Waterhouses's Dave Titterton who is also enjoying a good season with 40 points returned off his 15 handicap. A superb front 9 score of 23 points and 37 gross set Dave up on his way and with 17 points on the back 9 including birdie on 15 the fine score was achieved. Dave Nash, Mick Beech and Nigel Taylor took the minor places. Division 3 was won with the highest score of the day with 42 points being returned by Cliff Cason of Doveridge off his 19 handicap. With a maximum shot allowance of 18 for the Dethick Cup Cliff narrowly lost out on a countback but won his Division in style with 22 points on the front and 20 on the back 9. Martin Tunaley took the runners up berth with 39 points and having a solid weekend of gof was followed in by Nick Tompkinson. The Midsummer Medal
was played for the previous day although if the weather up to this competition
was classed as summer then we must be in for a bad winter. Blustery
conditions again swept over the Wyaston Road Course making scoring difficult
again but the man who turned up trumps in Division 1 was Pierre Weir
with a fine nett 67 off his 12 handicap. A birdie on the par 4 309 yard
dog leg left hole set Pierre on his way to a gross 37 on the front 9
and a gross 42 on the back 9 which included birdie at 17 helped Pierre
to the Division 1 winner's enclosure. Leon Lewis took the runners up
spot with the Mayfield Man scoring a nett 70 off his 5 handicap and
Simon Griffiths took 3rd place also with a nett 70. Division 2 was won
by the famous Dougie Sellers who off his 17 handicap shot a nett 68.
Highlight for Dougie was a par 3 on the 16th hole which he has always
found tough. Doug said after his round "I dont mess about on the
course, I just pull the club I think is right out and hit the ball,
nopractice swing, no messing and its a great win for me". Runner up was Derby's
Neil Hobson with a nett 69 and Sean Fernihough took 3rd place with a
nett 70. Division 3 winner was local financial expert Martin Tunaley
who scored a fine nett 67 off his 24 handicap to storm the Division
by a clear 8 shots. With 45 on the front 9 scored and 46 coming home
Martin said "I had a bit of a nightmare on the second hole scoring
a quadruple bogey but after that I played pretty solid and was delighted
to play under my handicap for a change". Martin Tunaley Div 3 Winner - Midsummer Medal Runners up were Ron Hill and John Brommage. This week sees Peter Cliffe enjoy his Captain's Away Day at Cavendish Golf Club, Buxton on Friday. Saturday sees the Derek Earp Trophy played for and Sunday is Lady Captain's Day. On Friday 15th of August the Ashbourne Rotary Club are holding a charity golf day in aid of the Treetop's Hospice and John Griffiths is inviting teams of 4 to enter. The format will be 3/4 handicap and best 2 from 4 scores to count on each hole with a buffet in the clubhouse after the round. Places are still available and for further information John would be delighted to hear from you by contacting him on 01335 343963 or 07786114767. Shooter is Club Champion The Scratch Cup
was played over 36 holes on Saturday 12th July with a small but select
field ready to battle it out to be named Club Strokeplay Champion 2008.
The late withdrawal of holder James Prince left the gate open to all
entrants as the competition was as wide open as it has been for many
year. Favourite for the day was alledgedly James "Bazooka"
Bainbridge who had fired a gross 71 the previous day in practice which
pushed him to the front of the pack. However what a difference a day
makes and it was his brother Dave "Shooter" Bainbridge who
stole a big lead on the field with a gross 72 in the punishing windy
conditions over the first 18 holes to take a 5 shot lead over Simon
Walwyn. John Milne and Bazooka Bainbridge were next in on 78's but the
rest of the field had already given up hope of catching the 21 year
old from Swinscoe. The two Barrie's struggled with 81's, Paul "Lofty"
Barnett and Simon Griffiths did also with 83's and 84's and Martyn "Ducky"
Taylor hit the two fat ladies with an 88 ut Ian Atterbury gained respect
with a gross 80, Leon Lewis never made the start with his whereabouts
still a mystery. A short lunch followed with an hour's break but the
wind if anything grew increasingly stronger with conditions being compared
to late October and not the middle of summer before another 18 holes
were played to determind the king. All credit must go to the lads as
they all took to the tee again to do battle without anyone chucking
in the towel. The final group was made up of the two Bainbridge Boy's
and Simon Walwyn with most knowing that the winner was amongst these
three. Conditions didnt ease however with many conceding defeat and
returning a no result on the scorecards, with the exception of one or
two which included Ducky Taylor who posted another 88 and is considering
his next employment as a bingo caller. Simon Walwyn briefly flourished
on the first 5 holes getting the defecit down to 2 to put the nerves
under Dave Bainbridge but he then put the sword to all challenges by
having a bid ie 2 from 25 foot on the par 3 6th hole. Birdies then followed
on holes 12,15 and 17 for Shooter who with a 6 shot lead on 18 decided
to pull out the driver instead of iron for safety and bombed it to within
40 yards of the 18th green. It was all over by the shouting with Dave
posting a gross 74. Clapped in by all entrants off the 18th green it
was an emotional moment for the young man who said It was the highlight
of his golfing career at Ashbourne and that he had acheived the ambition
of being "The King of The Club". Birkett's Men Win Charity Comp The
British Heart Foundation held a charity golf day at Ashbourne Golf Club
on Tuesday 15th July with 19 teams raising money for the charity. Organised
superbly once again by Brian Bradley who deserves great recognition
for all the hard work he put into organising such an event. Winners
of the day were The Quirkies who comprimised of Captain Les "Busby"
Birkett, Steve "Wiggy" Waring, Brian Bates and Pete Sutton
who scored 95 points in the team competition which saw the best 2 from
4 nett scores in the stableford competition. Les who always knows how
to get a team ready for a competition said in his speech that "Frank
McCabe once told me a poor player is always surrounded by good team
player's and that was certainly the case today!".The men carried
off stand bags as their prize and were presented by the British Heart
Foundation's Regional Fund Raiser Julie Watson .. Inside Info came 2nd
winning on a countback and comprimised of Captain Damien Jeffery, Simon
Walwyn, Richard Walker and Steve Walwyn with 89 points. Also on 89 points
were the Coates and Partners Team of Mike Blake, Jim Robinson, Darren
Hooley and John Smith followed in by Tony Broadhurst's Team called the
President's Men. Longest Drive on 17 was won by Darren Hooley and nearest
the pin on 14 won by Les Birkett. The yellow ball for most points was
won by Inside Info with 43 points who won a cash prize which they duly
donated back to the charity. Brian Bradley thanked all teams for the
entry and hoped that a figure of around £1400 pounds had been
raised on the day. Brian also went on to thank Peter Gadsby who had
again sponsored the prize table and hoped to see all the teams again
next year and left the stage to warm applause.  Inside Info  The President's Men  Coates & Partners 
Les Birkett - Nearest Pin 14th  Darren Hooley - Longest Drive17th Atterbury Takes July Medal On
Sunday 13th July off the white tees in weather at last associated with
summer with temperatures reaching 21 degrees in the hazy sunshine, the
July Medal was competed for by just under 100 members of Ashbourne Golf
Club. Division 1 winner was Ian Atterbury with a fine score of 77 gross
off his 9 handicap leaving him with a 3 under par score of 68. Highlights
of the big hitter's round included gross birdie 4's on the par 5 holes
of 8 and 15 with 37 scored on the front and 40 on the back 9. Ian said
after "Division 1 seems to have levelled itself out more this year
with scores of 68,69 nett seemingly good enough to win so I new I was
in with a chance after this round and it gets me into Champions Day
so Im pleased". Runner up was Martyn
"Ducky" Taylor of Hulland Ward scoring a good nett 69 off
his 9 handicap, followed in by Dave "Shooter" Bainbridge with
a nett 70 off his 2 handicap. Neil Hobson took the spoils in the Second
Division with a nett 69 off his 14 handicap. The Derby player got over
a nightmare 8 on the second hole to score a gross 43 on the front and
a birdie 4 on the par 5 17th brought Neil home in 40. Pete Sutton had
a fine round playing to his handicap with a gross 84 off his 13 handicap
followed in by Phil Green of Derby with a nett 72. Division 3 was won
by Ashbourne Man Nick "Algie" Fearn who also scored a nett
69 off his 26 handicap who also followed up on Wednesday Night by winning
Division 3 of the 9 hole medal and seems to be hitting a purple patch.
George Ditchfield took the runners up berth on a countback also on a
nett 69 off his 20 handicap and the in form Steve Challinor took 3rd
spot with a nett 73. Ashbourne's Peter
Sutton took the glory on Monday 14th July at Horsley Lodge Golf Club
putting another feather in the cap of recent winner's at away venues
for Ashbourne Golf Club Members. Peter kept the flag flying by competing
the Derbyshire Union of Golf Clubs Seniors Stroke Play Championship
in 60-65 age bracket. Shooting a fine 83 gross giving him a nett 70
was enough to take the spoils from the competing entrants of 80 players.
Peter said after "I played well and played to my handicap which
I always say is good enough when you play a different course to your
home track and I was delighted to win the competition".
Steve Challinor
took the honours on Sunday 6th July by winning Captain's Day with an
8 under par score of a nett 63 off a 25 handicap. The competition was
played in atrocious weather which saw continuous heavy rain fall until
mid afternoon but also took the honours as being the competition with
the highest turn out this year with 128 members taking part. Two cracks
of lightning above the course unfortunately around mid afternoon saw
many members call it a day and walk off the course to the safety of
the clubhouse. Steve took the brunt of the bad weather teeing off early
morning but the front 9 holes he really nailed going round in a gross
40 just 5 over par with the highlight being a gross birdie 3 on the
par 4 5th hole. The back 9 Steve played to his handicap scoring a gross
48 but after the cards were checked at 7pm he was crowned winner. At
the presentation in the clubhouse Steve received cut glass off the Captain
Peter Cliffe and spoke to a full clubhouse thanking playing partners,
greenkeepers and staff and said that he was throughly enjoying his first
season as a member at Ashbourne Golf Club.
Anne
Weaver & Dave Lowe winners of the Cliffe-Lockwood Trophy Runners up were
Beverley Kippax and Steve Bryan with a nett 68.5. Steve
Bryan - Runner up in the Cliffe-Lockwood - Played Superbly CAPTAIN'S
DAY 2008 WINNERS - Sunday July 6th Nearest Pin 9th
Hole - Geoff Clarence
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