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| County Championships 2008 |
| Fri 4th Jul |
County 'B' - Sunday 13th July at Bedford and County Golf Club - link to Start Sheet below.
County Seniors - Monday 7th July at Pavenham Park Golf Club - link to Start Sheet below.
Under 12's/14's Boys Championships - Thursday 24th July at Wyboston Lakes - for entry form see below.
Under 16's/18's Boys Championships - Monday 28th July at Leighton Buzzard Golf Club - for entry form see below.
County Foursomes - Sunday 14th September at South Beds Golf Club - for entry form see below.
County Championships represent tremendous value with two rounds of golf (18 holes for Juniors and Seniors) meals and attractive prizes.
Entry Forms can be found under 'Fixtures'. |
| Seniors Start Sheet | County 'B' Start Sheet |
| Great Win for Colts against BB&O |
| Sun 29th Jun |
The Colts looked a different Team in their Match against BB&O at The Millbrook Golf Club on Saturday after their disappointing form against Middlesex.
The morning foursomes were always close but the Colts came through in the last nine holes to win three of the four games and lead 3-1 at lunchtime.
Several players had promising starts in the afternoon but the initiative appeared to be taken by BB&O as the games progressed. Match Captain, Niall Johnston lost on the eighteenth and Michael George lost 3-2 - but Gavin Samuels held on to win 2-1 and Blayne Breheny had his first win (3-2) in only his second outing for the Colts. Carl Baker fought back gamely from five down to lose on seventeenth and Mark Brookshaw just lost out on the 18th. However James Cooper, on his first outing for the Colts this season won 1up on the eighteenth and Chris Sweetnam clinched the victory by winning 2 up also at the last. A great win for the Colts 7-5.
The Colts were disappointing in the League Match against Middlesex at Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands GC on Saturday. It was always going to be an uphill battle after losing the Foursomes 4-0 in the morning.Colts Manager, Richard Harris played his more experienced players at the top of the order but the Middlesex side was very impressive. First out Match Captain, Niall Johnston, playing at his home Club, lost on the 18th. Gavin Samuels (Leighton Buzzard) had his usual slow start but fought back from 4 down to halve, after being 1 up on the eighteenth tee. Chris Sweetnam (Leighton Buzzard) ground out a 3 and 2 victory. Newcomers Mark Brookshaw and Michael George ( from The Millbrook) both had good wins to bring some respectibility to the final score of 8 1/2 to 3 1/2 for Middlesex.
The Colts were edged out 7-5 by Hertfordshire at Batchworth Park, having been level 2-2 after the morning foursomes. Matt Oborne (Dunstable Downs) and Mark Brookshaw (The Millbrook) got Bedfordshire off to a fine start with a polished performance in winning their foursomes 3-2. Niall Johnston (Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands) showed his experience when teamed with new Colts member, big hitting Michael George (The Millbrook), who won their foursomes 3-1.
Niall Johnston continued his good form in the afternoon singles and won the last 2 holes to halve in the top match. Gavin Samuels (Leighton Buzzard) also continued his recent excellent form when soundly beating the highly thought of Alan Clitheroe 5-3. Mark Brookshaw carried his good form into the afternoon winning 1 up on the 18th and Michael George looked comfortable and impressed winning the 18th to halve his match.Chris Sweetnam (Leighton Buzzard) was Team Captain for the Match but met formidable opposition in the foursomes and singles. Last year's Colts Captain, Carl Baker (Leighton Buzzard) played steadily without success on this occasion. Another new Colts member Blayne Breheny (South Beds) performed maturely on his first outing but drew the impressive Ben Harman (handicap +1.4) in the singles. Colts Manager, Richard Harris and County President, David Oliver were pleased with the overall performance of the Team and there were a number of positives for the remainder of this season's campaign.
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Colts Win against BB&O
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| Result 1 | Results 2 |
| Super Start for County Team with Win against Herts |
| Wed 25th Jun |
The County Team overcame the elements at Dunstable Downs Golf Club last Sunday and defeated near neighbours Hertfordshire. In typical windy conditions Beds turned round the morning foursomes to lead 3-1 at lunchtime.
The afternoon did not start too promising - home player Mark Carter grabbed a half in the first singles match, but Captain, Paul Kirkwood (South Beds) and Phil Sutton (Dunstable Downs) - the senior half of father and son playing in the County Team - both lost narrowly . Michael Round (John O''Gaunt) improved the situation with an emphatic 4-3 win over Herts Captain, James York. In their first games for the County Team Chris Spooner (Dunstable Downs) and Michael George (The Millbrook) both played well in losing to strong opposition. It was left to the Juniors Gavin Samuels (Leighton Buzzard) and Robert Sutton (Dunstable Downs) - playing in his first County League Match - to win the last two games on the course and give Bedfordshire the narrowest of victories 6 1/2 to 5 1/2. |
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County Team beat Herts
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| Result |
| Seniors News |
| Wed 25th Jun |
The County Seniors Championship will be held at Pavenham Park Golf Club on Monday 7th July. The County's top Senior Golfers are all competing and there is a link to the start sheet below.
The County Seniors lost their first League Match of the season to neighbours Herts at Verulam.
Newcomer Steve Montague impressed with a 6-4 win and regulars Don Wall and Brendan Walsh were successful.
Seniors Captain, Harry Williams lead by example and halved as did newcomer John Allender. |
| Results | Start Sheet |
| Benson edges out Rivals in County Champs |
| Mon 9th Jun |
Graham Benson (Leighton Buzzard GC) was a model of consistency in becoming County Champion at Dunstable Downs GC on Sunday (8th June) with rounds of 70 71 72 and 70 - a total 283 (3 over par). He just edged out holder John Kemp (John O'Gaunt), Robert Sutton (Dunstable Downs) and County Captain, Paul Kirkwood (South Downs) to win by one shot in one of the most exciting Championships for a number of years.
The Dunstable Downs Course was presented in excellent condition, and although the conditions were fairly benign for Dunstable, it still provided a stern test of golf with none of the players finishing under par - there were only 6 under par rounds over the weekend.
Roberto Laino set the pace with a 67 to lead by 3 shots Saturday lunchtime. Junior Gavin Samuels (Leighton Buzzard) moved up the leaderboard with two 69's on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning and eventually finished runner-up in the Colts Championship. John Kemp made his familiar charge with a 68 on Sunday morning, which was matched by Roberto Laino who lead by 4 shots after 54 holes. He faltered at the tricky 10th hole and Paul Kirkwood, who had always been in contention, double bogied the 14th. The most impressive performance of the weekend was from Junior, Robert Sutton, playing off 5, who was third overall. Colts Champion and finished 16 under his handicap for 4 rounds.
But the honours go to our worthy new Champion, Graham Benson, who remained calm under pressure down the finishing straight to record a memorable victory.
The County Matchplay Championship 'Rules and Draw' are linked below. (Note - Graham Benson is unable to compete so the field has been advanced one place).
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Graham Benson - County Champion 2008
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| Results | Rules and Draw |
| Tucker and Kitching hold on to win County Fourball |
| Mon 2nd Jun |
A strong field of 46 pairs competed for the County Fourball at The Millbrook Golf Club on Sunday (1st June). After a brilliant morning round scoring 45 points Paul Kitching and Les Tucker held it together in the afternoon to record 41 points - 86 points overall - to win by 1 point from fellow home Club members Sam Woodham and Martin Darbyshire.
The Millbrook course was excellently presented , to provide great conditions for the highest quality golf - a day enjoyed by players and Club & County Officials alike.
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Kitching and Tucker win Fourball
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| Results |
| County Close in Inter-Counties 4somes at Seacroft |
| Mon 19th May |
Bedfordshire played tremendously well to finish second of 9 Counties in the Eastern Inter-Counties Foursomes at Seacroft over the weekend.
A sound performance on Saturday morning gave Beds a good start, taking 6 points from Leics and Northants to be within 1 point of the leaders. The Team continued its good form in the afternoon to take 7 1/2 points from fancied host County Lincs and near neighbours Herts and were joint leaders with Essex at the end of the first day.
Sunday morning Beds were matched with overnight joint leaders Essex and a strong Suffolk side but gained 5 points to lead going into the final afternoon. The first 3 pairs played well against strong oppostion from holders Cambs and a revitalised Norfolk side but only gained half a point, although 2 lost matches went to the final putt on the 18th. The last 2 pairs played exceptionally well to win both their matches giving Beds 4 1/2 to finish up on 23, half a point short of winners Essex.
An exciting weekend with many positives for the rest of the season. The pairings worked out very well with several experienced players teamed up with Juniors/Colts and all 5 pairs won at least 50% of their matches. |
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County Team at Seacroft
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| Results |
| Leagues News -South Beds win Winter Foursomes |
| Tue 6th May |
South Beds won the 2007-08 Winter Foursomes, edging out unbeaten Dunstable Downs. Also undefeated, Wyboston Lakes won the Plate and are promoted to Division 1 - with Aspley Guise & Woburn Sands relegated to Division 2.
Link to final Tables below.
The Summer Leagues are under way and the Tables showing the early positions in the Mid-Handicap Divisions are available via the link below. |
| Winter 4somes 2007-08 | Mid-Handicap Tables 6 May |
| Paul Fletcher Memorial Trophy |
| Mon 21st Apr |
There was an excellent turn out for the Paul Fletcher Trophy on Sunday (20th April) with 22 County Players competing for the individual prize. Laurie Fletcher was on hand to present the Trophy to Chris Sweetnam of Leighton Buzzard who won with an excellent level par 70 - but only on countback from the ever consistent County Captain, Paul Kirkwood of South Beds.
Chris also lead his Team of Adam Butler, Les Sharman and John Donnelly to victory in the team event with an impressive score of 109.
Around £1,300 was raised from this charity event - in memory of former County Captain, Paul Fletcher - which will go to St John's Hospice at Moggerhanger. |
| Results |
| Gavin Samuels 5th in the McEvoy |
| Sat 19th Apr |
Gavin Samuels of Leighton Buzzard Golf Club had four excellent rounds in difficult conditions, particularly the 3rd round, on the demanding Copt Heath Course in the West Midlands.
Gavin was in joint 4th place after the first day and narrowly failed to reach a play-off by two shots - the width of the ball that was out-of-bounds on the final round - when scoring a 2 over par 252 for the 63 hole event. |
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Gavin Samuels 5th in McEvoy
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| Results |
| Early Trials Show Encouraging Signs for Season |
| Thu 6th Mar |
A County Team entertained the Club Professional's on John O'Gaunt's Carthagena Course towards the end of February. Although the Team lost narrowly to the Club Pro's there were some encouraging performances from the younger players; Niall Johnson,Matt Oborne and Gavin Samuels. Also new squad member Adam Butler and veterans,Mark Carter and Ian Tottingham showed good form.
The Annual Triangular Match between County, Colts and Under 18's Teams was hosted by John O''Gaunt on the Old Course on 2nd March. Although the County Team won overall, with the Under 18's edging out the Colts for 2nd place, there were good performances from players in all three teams.
County Captain, Paul Kirwood turned the clock back to represent the Under 18's and was back to form with 2 wins but was impressed with Colt, Niall Johnson again.Chris Gill looks as though he may end his illustrous County Career with two wins including a win against the inform Colt, Gavin Samuels. The 'Seniors' were represented by that old war horse, Phil Corke, who was a model of consistency in winning both of his matches, as did another John O'Gaunt stalwart, Nigel Tarn. Adam Butler gave another sound performance in winning both of his matches.
However the youngsters gave a good showing lead by last year's Colts Captain,Carl Baker who fought back to win his matches from one down in both with 2 holes to play. The most encouraging signs were from two under 18 players , Michael George, again a double winner and the performance of the day from Jonathan Olden who beat the inform Matt Oborne and the very sound Paul Burr. The highlight of his game was a great birdie at the 6th, a long par 4, with a drive and a 4 iron to 5 feet and sinking the putt - a rare birdie on that hole.
All in all the early preparations are going well and the signs are promising for a good season.
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| Results |
| Annual General Meeting 26th February 2008 |
| Wed 27th Feb |
A successful County Annual General Meeting was be held at Dunstable Downs Golf Club on Tuesday 26th February.
Dunstable Downs Captain, John Todd welcomed the attendees and applauded the uniqueness of the Bedfordshire County Golf Union.
David Oliver - Dunstable Downs GC (President) Chris Foster - Pavenham Park GC (Vice President) Paul Kirkwood - South Beds GC (County Captain) and Phil Corke (Vice Captain) Richard Harris (Colts Manager) and Harry Williams (Seniors Captain) - all of John O'Gaunt - were elected/appointed to their respective positions.We wish them a successful 2008.
Thanks were expressed to the outgoing President, Trevor Hazell - County Captain, Neil Willson - Colts Manager, Brian Thompson and Seniors Captain,Terry Arnold. |
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David Oliver - President 2008-09
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| County Annual Dinner |
| Sat 22nd Dec |
The Annual Dinner was held at Mitchell Hall, Cranfield University on Friday 7th December. The Principal Guest was Richard Palmer, President of the English Golf Union, who proposed the Toast to the County Golf Union and President, Trevor Hazell.
The guest speaker was Jimmy Quinn, a professional comedian and excellent after dinner speaker. who rounded off a very successful evening.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 'Golfer of the Year' Trophy to John Kemp, who had won the County Championship and the prestigious English Golf Union Champion of Champions Tournament. |
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Trevor Hazel with Richard Palmer
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Trevor Hazel presents John Kemp with the Player of the Year award
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| Bedfordshire County Golf Union Fixtures 2008 |
| Fri 23rd Nov |
| All County fixtures for 2008 can be found under ''Fixtures" |
| John Kemp - Champion of Champions |
| Sun 23rd Sep |
John Kemp rounded off a fantastic season winning the Champion of Champions Tournament at Woodhall Spa Golf Course today.
John followed up his County Championship success in June by landing the English County Champions Trophy by two strokes at six under par for 36 holes (rounds of 72 & 68).
This followed John's County Foursomes Championship win with Mark Wharton (for the seventh time) on the previous Sunday at Dunstable Downs GC. |
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John Kemp - Champion of Champions
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| Neil Willson Ends Captaincy with Win |
| Tue 7th Aug |
The County Team travelled to Rochford Hundred Golf Club for their final League Match of the season against strong rivals Essex on Sunday (5th August).
Bedfordshire lead after the morning foursomes 3 - 1 with Michael Round and Mark Carter winning 2 -1, Captain Neil Willson partnered by Chris Gill winning on the 18th (2up) and Paul Kirkwood & Paul Burr were awarded their game by default.
The afternoon singles started well with Michael Round birdying the last 3 holes to win 1up, Roberto Laino grinding out a well deserved half and veteran Phil Sutton scoring 7 under par to secure a win - 2up.Disappointingly Beds lost the next four singles matches but Chris Gill''s usual gritty performance, winning on the 17th, gave Bedfordshire the win 6 1/2 to 5 1/2.
A very commendable performance by the Bedfordshire Team and County Captain Neil Willson was generous in his praise for his small squad of players that had competed so well in every match this season. Overall the County has 5 points which is reflected in the games score of 26 to 22.
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| Tables | Result |
| County Foursomes Championships |
| Sat 28th Jul |
The County Foursomes Championships will be held at Dunstable Downs Golf Club on Sunday 16th September. Entry forms can be downloaded from this website and sent electronically (cheque to follow within 10 days and before the Championship) or by post to Clive Allen, County Competitions Secretary.
COUNTY MIXED FOURSOMES
The County Mixed Foursomes will be held at The Bedford Golf Club on Sunday 23rd September. This year the competition will be 18 holes medal and the entry form - link below - with cheques, should be sent to Jocelyn Faris. Bedfordshire Ladies County Captain. |
| County Matchplay Championship |
| Sat 28th Jul |
| The ''Draw and Rules'' for the County Matchplay Championship are linked below. |
| Draw and Rules |
| County Boys Championship - U16 and U18 |
| Fri 27th Jul |
| Ryan Thrussell (Bedfordshire GC) overcame tricky conditions at The Millbrook Golf Club on Thursday (26th July) to win the 2007 Boys Championship with an excellent score of 148, 2 over par for 36 holes. Blayne Breheny (South Beds GC) won the U16's Championship with 154 (gross) and Michael George (The Millbrook GC ) who was second overall, was also Handicap Champion for 2007. |
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Ryan Thrussell - Boys Champion
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Blayne Breheney - Boys U16 Champion
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Michael George - Boys Handicap Champion
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| Winners | Winners by Club |
| County Boys Championship - U12 and U14 |
| Thu 26th Jul |
The U12's and U14's Boys Championships were held at The Bedford Golf Club on Monday (23rd July). David Evans (Bedfordshire GC) won the Under12's Boys Championship, with a very commendable 88, by 2 strokes from Harry Noton (Leighton Buzzard GC) with Shaun Allin (John O'Gaunt GC) 3rd.
Luke Kenney (Stockwood Park GC) became U14's County Boys Champion for 2007 with an excellent score of 79, one stroke ahead of Club colleague Connor Boyle, with Ryan Doherty (Aylesbury Vale GC) one stroke fiurther back. |
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Luke Kenney - Boys Champion U14s
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David Evans - Boys Champion U12s
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| Winners | Net Scores |
| Colts Lose Out Against Hertfordshire |
| Mon 23rd Jul |
The Colts showed some improvement on their showing against Essex a couple of weeks earlier, when they played Hertfordshire at Leighton Buzzard Golf Club on Sunday (22nd July).
After trailing 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 in the morning foursomes they eventually lost 4 1/2 to 7 1/2.There were some commendable individual performances with Colts Captain,Carl Baker leading by example - winning his morning foursomes game with Chris Sweetnam and his afternnon singles - and Alex Harris was not overwhelmed on his debut appearance for the County Colts. |
| Result |
| B B is County B Champion |
| Mon 23rd Jul |
Ben Bennett was 'speechless' after winning the County 'B' Championship at South Beds Golf Club on Sunday (22nd July). The South Beds Golf Course was in great condition after recent rain and it was fine and sunny for most of the day.
There were several excellent morning scores but Ben posted a challenging 'leader in the Clubhouse' score early in the afternoon that was not beaten. He won by one stroke from Louis Farrelly (Leighton Buzzard GC) and Stuart Bolton (Bedford & County GC) - with Louis, a County U16 player, ruuner-up on countback. |
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Ben Bennett being presented with the County B Trophy
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| Winners |
| County Downs Middlesex at Dunstable |
| Mon 16th Jul |
The County Team had an emphatic 8 - 4 win over Middlesex at Dunstable Downs GC on Sunday.
Although well up in all 4 morning foursomes at one time they had to settle for 2 - 2 at lunchtime, losing two matches on the 18th.
Michael Round, after his excellent 4th individual place in the East Berkshire Stag on Wednesday with scores of 68 and 70, lost to Middlesex Captain, Justin Phelps in the first of the afternoon singles. From then on it became a bit of a procession with Bedfordshire winning the next five singles and halving the last two. However the games were very close with veterans Mark Wharton and Phil Sutton both winning 2-1 on the 17th and 4 games going to the 18th ( Matt Callanan 2 up, Paul Kirkwood 1 up and Chris Gill and Ben Austin halving) with Mark Carter winning well 4-2 on his own course. Although the afternoon was disrupted by thunder storms the Match was completed very successfully for Beds and it is possible that the League will be decided in the final game against Essex at Rochford 100 GC on 5th August. |
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Successful County Team at Dunstable Downs
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| Results |
| Beds Seniors Success in Southern Counties 4somes |
| Wed 11th Jul |
Bedfordshire Seniors entertained Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk Seniors in the North East Group of the Southern Counties Seniors Foursomes at Bedford and County Golf Club on Tuesday (10th July).
Beds were drawn against Cambs in the morning round and won 4 - 1 with Gordon Fuller and Bill Hirst starring with an emphatic 8 and 7 win. Norfolk also triumphed over Suffolk,
Charlie Kemp (family commitment) and Graham Crawford (injured) were unable to compete in the afternoon regional decider but Rex Atkins and John Jones were reliable substitutes. Beds won comfortably again 4- 1 with Peter Jones and Harry Williams leading the way with a 6 - 4 win. The other members of the team were Captain, Terry Arnold, Don Wall, Brendan Walsh and David Hawkins.
Beds now compete in the Southern Counties Seniors Foursomes Final (venue and date to be advised). |
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The victorious Seniors at Bedford&County
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| Final | First Round Result |
| Abridge too far for Bedfordshire |
| Mon 9th Jul |
Bedfordshire fielded its strongest team in the EGU South East Group Qualifying at Abridge Golf Course in Essex on Saturday (7th July). The tournament is six-a-side with all scores counting. The six man team representing Bedfordshire of Graham Benson, John Kemp, Roberto Laino, Michael Round,Phil Sutton and Mark Wharton found the immaculate Abridge course just too testing, although conditions were virtually ideal.
Graham Benson lead the Beds scores with 73 and 74 for a total of 147 and 13th place, closely followed by John Kemp with a two round total of 150. After an excellent morning score of 73 Michael Round faded in the afternoon to finish in the lower orders of the 66 man field.
Bedfordshire eventually finished 9th and all the individual and team scores can be found through the link to the South East Group website. |
| Scores |
| Charlie Kemp Makes It a Father and Son Double |
| Thu 5th Jul |
Just two weeks after son John Kemp won the County Championship at Leighton Buzzard GC, father Charlie (Bedford and County GC) emphatically won the Seniors Championship at the Bedfordshire Golf Club on Monday (2nd July).There were several interruptions for torrential rain and storms but the Bedfordshire course was in good condition and remained playable.
The conditions made Charlie's score of 70 (65 net) all the more remarkable and he won by 8 strokes from Harry Williams and Phil Corke (both John O'Gaunt GC).Harry was runner-up (on countback) and Phil won the 55 to 59 years category. Other winners were Don Wall, South Beds GC (60 to 64 years); Brian Allen, Bedfordshire GC (65 to 69 years) and Peter Julyan,Pavenham Park GC (70+).
The handicap prizes went to winner Trevor Hazell (John O'Gaunt GC) from Barrie Buckley (The Millbrook GC) and John McPoland (South Beds GC).
Over 60 Seniors enjoyed a great day's golf - again very ably organised by the County Competitions Secretary, Clive Allen. |
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Charlie Kemp - Seniors Champion 2007
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| Winners | Gross Scores |
| Colts Do Not Live Up To Expectations Against Essex |
| Wed 4th Jul |
The Colts did not reach the level of performance achieved in their previous match when they met a slightly understrength Essex side at The Millbrook on 30th June. Although the day was dogged by showers The Millbrook course was in excellent condition and the Club made every effort to look after the players and officials.
The Team started well in both the morning foursomes and the afternnoon singles but disappointingly did not maintain the momentum.
Trailing 1/2 to 3 1/2 after the foursomes at lunchtime the prospects were not great. Gavin Samuels (Leighton Buzzard) and Tom Butler (Pavenham Park) continued to impress with singles wins in the afternoon, in only their second and third appearances respectively. Unfortunately they were the only home wins recorded and Essex won comfortably 9 1/2 to 2 1/2. |
| Another Close Match with BB&O |
| Mon 25th Jun |
Bedfordshire looked the more likely of the two sides to prevail in this closely fought League Match at John O'Gaunt on Sunday.The successful middle order of Mark Carter/Michael Round and John Kemp/Paul Kirkwood in the morning foursomes gave a Match score of 2 -2 at lunchtime.
Michael Round, Matt Callanan and Mark Wharton got Beds off to great start in the afternoon ,winning three of the first four singles.The crucial match was probably the narrow defeat of John Kemp,one down to Steve Barwick. Our only other success came from Vice-Captain, Paul Kirkwood leaving the Match tied 6 - 6.
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Beds Team
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| Result |
| Kemp Storms Back to Retain County Title |
| Mon 18th Jun |
John Kemp (JO'G) shot a stunning 10 under par on the final day (36 holes) to win the Bedfordshire County Championship last Sunday.
This looked most unlikely at lunchtime on Saturday when he trailed County Vice-Captain,Paul Kirkwood (South Beds) by 12 strokes. Paul shot a blistering 62, a new course record at host Club Leighton Buzzard, to lead by 5 strokes from Daniel Parkin (The Bedford).
Kemp showed his intent early in the afternoon when he was 5 under par but a torrential rain storm caused play to be suspended for an hour and forty minutes.Fortunately the rain stopped and thanks to the sterling efforts of the Leighton Buzzard GC staff and County Officials play resumed just afer 6.00pm and the second round was completed.
Daniel Parkin lead the 18 qualifiers for the final day at 5 under par, one shot ahead of Paul Kirkwood, with Michael Round (JO'G) a further shot back and John Kemp 8 shots adrift.
It was very pleasing to see 50% of the qualifiers (9) under 21 years old.
The Team event was incredibly close but Leighton Buzzard 'A', represented by three Colts, Eddie Cox, Gavin Samuels and Carl Baker, edged out South Beds 'A' on countback, both with an aggregate total of 427,one stoke ahead of John O'Gaunt 'A'. Leighton Buzzard will now represent Bedfordshire in the Champion Club Championship at Hesketh Golf Club on14th/15th September.
The lead changed several times on the final day but John birdied the last 3 holes for his second 66 of the day and a total of 277 (7 under par) to win by 4 strokes - from veteran Mark Wharton (JO'G) and Michael Round - his 6th Championship win. Michael won the Colts Championship on 281 by one stroke from Eddie Cox.
A superb weekends golf, excellently coordinated by Clive Allen, County Competitions Secretary and magnificently supported by Leighton Buzzard Golf Club - the Manager (Duncan), Head Greenkeeper (Ian), Professional (Maurice), Caterer (Lee) and the Bar Steward (Jason) with their respective teams.
A very worthy Champion and encouraging performances from a number of youngsters looking to the future.
County Championships offer tremendous value - 36 holes golf (18 holes for U12's/U14's and Seniors), lunch and attractive prizes on Bedfordshire's most prestigious golf courses.There is still time for entries to the County 'B' (22nd July - South Beds), Boys Championships (23rd and 26th July- The Bedford/The Millbrook), and County Foursomes (16th September - Dunstable Downs). Application forms can be downloaded from this website and sent by post with cheque or e-mail(cheque to follow in post) to County Competitions Secretary. |
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John Kemp, County Champion 2007
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Play Suspended!
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Paul Kirkwood Celebrates Course Record with Club Captain, Morley Smith
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| Final Day Scores | Winners |
| Beds Colts Magnificent Recovery Against BB&O |
| Mon 11th Jun |
A relatively inexperienced Bedfordshire Colts Team fought back well to halve the match with BB&O 6- 6, after trailing 1 - 3 in the morning foursomes, away at Royal Ascot last Saturday (9th June). Gavin Samuels (Leighton Buzzard) made his debut and it was only the second appearance for Lee Beattie (Aylesbury Vale) and Tom Butler (Pavenham Park).
Colts Captain, Carl Baker (Leighton Buzzard) led by example and partnering Tom Butler for the first time they managed the only win for Bedfordshire in the morning foursomes.
Although down 1 -3 at lunchtime the team remained positive and confident that they could turn things round. Michael Round (John O'Gaunt) and Matt Oborne (Dunstable Downs) both won well early on and brought the match score to 3 - 3.
Gavin Samuels held on ,after leading 5 up, to close out his first win for Bedfordshire which brought the scores level after Lee Beattie had lost narrowly in a close fought game.The morning victors Carl Baker and Tom Butler both lost leaving Bedfordshire trailing 4 -6.However James Cooper (John O'Gaunt) and anchor man Chris Sweetnam (Leighton Buzzard) both had good wins to give Bedfordshire a well deserved half with BB&O.
It was a battling performance by the Colts and will give them confidence going into their next match against Essex at The Millbrook GC later this month. |
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Colts halve with BB&O at Royal Ascot
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| Result |
| Host Club Members take County Fourball Title |
| Wed 6th Jun |
Nathan Dennis and Stuart Bolton recorded a stunning afternoon round of 45 points in the County Fourball Event in excellent conditions on their home course at Bedford and County last Sunday (3rd June).They just held off the Leighton Buzzard youngsters Chris Sweetnam and Gavin Samuels by one point,with a two round total of 86 points.Adam Butler and Greg Williams (Pavenham Park) were 3rd with a very creditable 82 points.
36 pairs teed off on a fine Summer morning and the excellent presentation of the Bedford and County course resulted in some impressive scoring.Darren Leach and Duncan Steele (The Millbrook) together with father and son pair,Charlie and Tom Snelling (Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands) and Chris and Gavin led with 43 points at lunchtime.However the afternoon belonged to Nathan and Stuart who were delighted to take the 2007 County Fourball Title.
Although at the end there were a number of weary bodies,72 players enjoyed a great day's golf; challenging course,good food and worthwhile prizes. |
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Winners Nathan Dennis and Stuart Bolton, Bedford and County
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Runners-up Chris Sweetnam and Gavin Samuels, Leighton Buzzard
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3rd Adam Butler and Greg Williams, Pavenham Park
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Morning winners, Darren Leach and Duncan Steele, The Millbrook
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| Results |
| County Let Morning Advantage Slip |
| Sun 27th May |
The County Team went to South Herts GC with confidence high after their excellent performance at Seacroft and boosted by the addition of veteran Mark Wharton (JO'G) and Graham Benson (LB).
In atrocious conditions Beds had much the better of the morning foursomes and were up in all four matches through 9 holes. Paul Kirkwood and Paul Burr (SB) pressed on strongly to win 5&4 and Mark Wharton and young Matt Callanan (JO'G) saw off their opponents 3&2. The other two games went to the 18th where Mark Carter(DD) and Michael Round(JO'G) won 2 up but Graham Benson and Chris Gill just missed out 2 down.
Although steady rain continued through the afternoon the course held up well and the match was completed. Disappointingly for Beds the run of good results dried up and Hertfordshire won the singles 5 1/2 to 2 1/2 - the match going to the 18th in the final game where Chris Gill finally succumbed to Laurence Allen 2 down. The final score was Beds 5 1/2 - Herts 6 1/2 - in many respects a complete reversal of last year when Beds won the last 6 singles to narrowly defeat Herts. |
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The County Team at South Herts GC
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| Result |
| Excellent County Performance at Seacroft |
| Fri 25th May |
County Captain, Neil Willson decided to only take 10 players to Seacroft,including himself - to ensure that the players remained focused - to participate in the Eastern Inter-Counties Foursomes.Beds had a strong Team this year and the pairings worked well.
In the first round on Saturday morning Beds were drawn gainst strong oppostion in Cambridgeshire, the eventual winners, and the home County of Lincolnshire. Beds managed to win four points with, the final pair of Chris Gill (SB) and veteran Steve Kanagh (JO'G),who first appeared in this event 30 years ago,winning both of their matches.Sound performances in the afternoon saw us gaining 6 points against Essex and Northants,with Captain Neil Willson (JO'G) and Mark Carter (DD) starring with two wins. This put Beds up to equal 3rd place and very much in the mix although somewhat off the leaders Cambs and Leics.
On Sunday morning we were drawn against our local rivals Hertfordshire and Norfolk.If a couple of putts had dropped it could have been a clean sweep but in the end Beds won 8 points with all pairs scoring - an excellent performance to move us up to equal second with Leics and just 3 points behind Cambs.On the final afternoon we were drawn against two strong Counties; Leics, who finished 2nd overall and Suffolk who finished 4th.Although we started well we couldn't maintain the momentum from the morning and ultimately won 4 points with the top scoring pair of Paul Burr and Matt Callanan (SB) winning both of their matches to finish with 6 points for the event.The ever reliable pair of Steve Kavanagh and Chris Gill were close behind with 5 1/2 points.
The Team eventually finished in a very creditable 3rd place - a fantastic performance and good to see Bedfordshire competing for Eastern Inter-Counties Foursomes title again. |
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Neil Willson and playing partner Mark Carter
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| Results |
| Paul Fletcher Memorial Trophy |
| Tue 24th Apr |
Seventeen Teams (of 4) participated in the Paul Fletcher Memorial Trophy played at Bedford and County Golf Club on Sunday 22nd April 2007.
The Team winners were Phil & Alison Corke and Laura & Alistair Collin with a total of 86 points closely followed by runners-up - Matt Oborne, David Hughes,Paul Johnson and David Taylor with 85 points.
The Paul Fletcher Memorial Trophy will be shared this year by joint winners Neil Willson and Neil Sparrow - both with scores of 70 gross.Close behind were Niall Johnston (71),John Kemp,Phil Sutton and Mark Wharton (all 72).
Thanks to Mike Smith for organising a very succesful event,to Laurie Fletcher for presenting the Trophy and to Bedford and County Golf Club for hosting the day.Over £1,000 was raised for St John's Hospice at Moggerhanger. |
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Joint Winners Neil Willson & Neil Sparrow
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| New Juniors Leagues off to Successful Start |
| Wed 11th Apr |
The first matches in the newly created U14's and U16's Leagues were well received by the boys.
Bedfordshire entertained Herts and Middlesex at Bedford and County on 3rd April for the inaugaral U14''s triangular League Match.The format is similar to the County and Colts Leagues - foursomes in the morning (9 holes) and singles in the afternoon (10-a-side).
Although the strong wind was bitterly cold (the boys coped with the conditions better than the officials) it remained dry after an early shower.The boys soon got to grips with playing two matches simultaneously.A very strong Hertfordshire team ran out comfortable winners in both of their matches and Middlesex overcame Bedfordshire in a closer game.
The players dined with their playing partners after the match and from the chatter it was obvious that the whole event was received very enthusiastically.
Hertfordshire entertained Bedfordshire and BB&O,hosted by Harpenden Golf Club, in the first U16''s League Match a week later.This was similar in format but with 8-a-side and 18 holes foursomes in the morning.It was a fine Spring day for golf and the excellent scores reflected this.Again a very strong Hertfordshire Team ran out winners in both of their matches but their result against BB&O was in doubt until the last game.BB&O were successful against an inexperienced Beds side.Again the banter during the after match meal showed how much the boys had enjoyed the day.
Very promising starts to both these Juniors Leagues in their infancy. |
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The U14 Team
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| U14 results | U16 results |
| County Team in Close Encounters in Friendlies |
| Wed 4th Apr |
Friendlies against Cambridgeshire are always close games and the match this year on 25th March was no exception.Played on a blustery but fine day on the Carthagena Course at John O''Gaunt seven of the games went to the eighteenth green.
In the morning foursomes Vice-Captain,Paul Kirkwood and South Beds partner,Andy Horner,gained a convincing win to give the home Team a good start.This was followed up by Roberto Laino (Bedford and County) and Craig Neild (South Beds) securing a good win.However,Cambs won the remaining foursomes to lead 3-2 at lunchtime.
An early win for Chris Gill (South Beds) was encouraging but Cambs held on to halve the singles 5-5,with Beds unable to convert several halved games to wins.An encouraging performance fron an experimental Team,particularly the welcome return of young Matt Callanan (South Beds) to the County Team,which he celebrated with a victory over Cambs veteran Steve Jarvis.
Overall result Beds 7 Cambs 8
The following Sunday the County Team travelled to Cold Ashby in the North of Northamptonshire.Although a bright dry day there was a keen North-Easterly wind which made conditions difficult on the hilly Cold Ashby course.
Home advantage became apparent in the morning foursomes and Beds found themseves 3 down after the first 3 games,although Matt Callanan and Niall Johnson (Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands) battled through to the 18th.However,the anchor pairing of Ben Austin (South Beds) and Ed Cox (Leighton Buzzard) gelled well and closed out their game on the 15th to win 4-3 to leave Beds struggling 4-1 down at lunchtime.
The afternoon singles were more closely contested once the Beds Team was more familiar with the course.In the top match John O''Gaunt''s Michael Round beat England youngster Andy Myers and this was followed by Nigel Tarn,also from John O''Gaunt,overcoming home player Greg Croxton.
There were further wins for South Beds players Matt Callanan and Ben Austin.Mark Carter (Dunstable Downs) rounded off the afternoon with a convincing win over Northants Captain,Neil Presto.Eventually Beds won the afternoon singles 5 1/2 - 4 1/2.
It was always going to be an uphill task after the disappointing foursomes but nonethe less some encouraging individual performances.
Overall result Beds 6 1/2 Cambs 8 1/2. |
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Setting off at Cold Ashby
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| match results |
| County Team Start 2007 Campaign with Fine Win |
| Wed 7th Mar |
The annual fixture between the County Team against the Bedfordshire Club Professionals resumed at John O''Gaunt on the Carthagena Course last Saturday.
Honours were even after the morning Foursomes 2-2; the most notable result was the comeback by Chris Gill and Richard Harris who were 2 down with 3 holes to play and shared the points, halving the last in birdies.
Early singles wins by Mark Wharton and Paul Burr put the County Team in a strong position but there was nothing to separate the remaining singles with 4 of the last 5 games going to the 18th.The County Team managed to secure 4 more wins and ran out comfortable winners 8-4. |
| Bedfordshire County Card |
| Mon 19th Feb |
| The Bedfordshire County Card for 2007/08 (from1st March to end of February) will be available from your Club Secretary/Manager from the end of this month.The County Card offers excellent value at £10.00 again this year.Bedfordshire now has reciprochal arrangements with 12 other Counties - Gloucestershire and Wiltshire have joined - and over 460 Clubs are participating. |
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Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands - one of 20 Beds County Card Clubs
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| county card clubs |
| County Fixtures 2007 |
| Sat 20th Jan |
The Diary for all Championships and Matches for 2007 is now available - see Fixtures.
|
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County Team win at Pavenham Park 2006
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| EGU South East Group - Vacancy |
| Thu 4th Jan |
| A vacancy has arisen following the announcement that John Gilding is retiring on 31st December 2007.The advert for the post is linked to this item and all enquiries/responses should be made direct to Clive Inskip,Chairman of the South East Group. |
| Summer Scratch League Results 2006 |
| Tue 5th Dec |
The trophies for all the Divisional winners were presented at the County Golf Union's annual dinner at The Brache on 1st December - congratulations to all winning teams:
John O'Gaunt 'A' (League 1)
South Beds (League 2)
Bedford & County 'B' (League 3)
John O'Gaunt 'B' (League 4)
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Regulars in John O'Gaunt's Summer Scratch Winning Team 2006
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| Final Tables |
| Aspley Guise and Wbrn Snds win Mid-Handicap League |
| Mon 30th Oct |
Aspley Guise and Woburn sands Golf Club overcame The Millbrook 5 1/2 to 4 1/2 over the two legs of the Mid-Handicap Final.
Leading by 3-2 after the home leg Aspley Guise won the Trophy by sharing the spoils at The Millbrook - 2 1/2 -2 1/2. |
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Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands
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| Round Triumphs in County Matchplay Championship |
| Mon 23rd Oct |
| Michael Round (JO'G) had an emphatic win 5-4 over Paul Burr (South Beds) in the Final of the County Matchplay Championship played at Leighton Buzzard Golf Club. |
| Results |
| Annual County Dinner - Friday 1st December 2006 |
| Wed 27th Sep |
The Annual County Dinner is being held this year at the popular Riverside Suite,Brache Centre,Luton.
The evening will be chaired by Trevor Hazell,County President,and the Principal Speakers will be Donald Steel,President of the English Golf Union and Ralph Woolhead,renowned local raconteurer.
This event is one of the highlights of the County Golf Union year.Details of how to book your place have been sent to all Bedfordshire Club Secretaries/Managers.
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| John Kemp and Mark Wharton regain County Foursomes |
| Mon 25th Sep |
John Kemp and Mark Wharton (JO'G) regained the County Foursomes Championship Title at The Bedford GC on Sunday, after missing out in the last couple of years. But not without a ''wake-up call'' at lunchtime when they trailed Dean Carroll and Nolan Darnell (JO'G) by 4 shots (level 72). In the afternoon they shot a brilliant 5 under 67 to win by 5 shots from Dean and Nolan.
Mark Wharton celebrated his 14th County Foursomes Championship win - 6 times with John Kemp and with eight other partners.
Paul Kitching and Mark Yeomans (The Millbrook) took the net prize with 141 closely followed by Phil Bateman and Henry Cave (Bedford and County) on 143.
The course, catering and all-round arrangements at The Bedford Golf Club were excellent. |
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Winners - County Foursomes Championship
| .jpg) |
Second
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Net Winners
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| Winners | Gross | Net |
| John O'Gaunt 3rd in Champion Club |
| Fri 22nd Sep |
| John O'Gaunt performed brilliantly in the Champion Club Championship at Woodhall Spa last weekend.They were narrowly beaten into third place by Kilworth Springs (Leicestershire & Rutland - 1st on countback) and Stoke Park (BB& O - host Club) who tied just 3 shots ahead of the Bedfordshire Club with Chelmsford (Essex) 5 shots further back in 4th.The John O'Gaunt Team of John Kemp,Mark Wharton and Michael Round were very consistent over the two rounds with Michael scoring an excellent 69 in the second round. |
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The team at Stoke Park
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| Results |
| Corky Knocks out Kirky |
| Mon 28th Aug |
Veteran Phil Corke (Corky) (JO''G) met ''mature'' Paul Kirkwood (Kirky) (South Beds) in the quarter final of the County Matchplay Championship at John O''Gaunt. The match was played on the Carthegena course which did not favour either player.
Phil raced to a 5-up lead at the turn but Paul turned up the heat with four birdies in the next eight holes leaving Corky 1-up with one to play. Corky birdied the last to win 2-up after a tremendous game.
Kirky was magnanimous in defeat and was heard to say that it was another victory for ''Dads Army''.
In other quarter-final matches John Kemp won 2-up against Neil Willson,Paul Burr beat Carl Baker and Michael Round had a good win over Chris Gill. |
| Bedfordshire's Comeback Results in Tie for League |
| Sun 27th Aug |
| Bedfordshire staged a dramatic comeback in the final match of the Season against Hertfordshire at South Beds GC on Sunday 27th August. Having looked in a good position in the morning foursomes only Paul Burr and Roberto Laino went on to win leaving the County trailing 3 - 1 at lunchtime. Heavy defeats in the first two singles matches in the afternoon put Hertfordshire 5 - 1 ahead. From a seemingly impossile position Bedfordshire fought back to win the last 6 singles and grab a memorable victory 7 - 5! The win took them to the top of the League, tied on points and games won with BB&O who go through to the final having beaten Bedfordshire earlier in the season. |
| Result | Northern League Tables |
| Tavistock Trophy |
| Fri 25th Aug |
Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands Juniors Retain Tavistock Trophy. The Tavistock Trophy Final was held at Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands GC on Friday 25th August. The Trophy Final was contested by the holders AG & WS, Dunstable Downs, Griffin and Tilsworth. Aspley Guise and WS Captain Tom Lanley Poole led his team to a convincing win to retain the Trophy.
There were some exceptional scores on the day,particularly a gross 69 (net 64) by Robert Sutton of Dunstable Downs.
Full result:
1st Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands 282
2nd Dunstable Downs 302
3rd Griffin 303
4th Tilsworth 321 |
| Results |
| South East Group Juniors Foursomes |
| Thu 24th Aug |
| Bedfordshire Boys rally in SE Group Juniors Foursomes. Nine Counties contested the SE Group Juniors Foursomes at Gerrards Cross on 23rd/24th August. After a disappointing first three rounds it looked as though Bedfordshire would need to win 4 of the 6 matches on the Thursday afternoon. James Cooper (JO''G) and Gavin Samuels(Leighton Buzzard) upped their game to win both of their matches and with Matt Callanan and Daniel Clinch (both South Beds) coming up against strong opposition, it was left to Tom Langley-Poole (Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands) and Mike George (The Millbrook) to gain the necessary points. Tom and Mike did not disappoint - they saw off Norfolk 6-4 and went to the 18th tee one-up on Hetfordshire who birdied the last for a fine half. After all the results were in the Bedfordshire Boys had done enough to qualify for next year which will be hosted in Bedfordshire. |
| Mid-Season Tables for Summer Leagues |
| Mon 21st Aug |
With only half the matches played in the Summer Scratch Leagues it is not clear which Clubs are going to win the leagues and who will be relegated.
The Mid-Handicap Leagues have produced the quarter finalists as follows:
Aspley Guise and Ws vs Tilsworth
Bedford and County vs South Beds
Dunstable Downs vs Aylesbury Vale
The Millbrook vs Mount Pleasant |
| Scratch League | Handicap League |
| John O'Gaunt 'A' win Junior InterClub Championship |
| Thu 17th Aug |
Bedfordshire GC ''A'',John O''Gaunt GC ''A'' and Leighton Buzzard GC ''A'' all tied on 227 in the three-man Junior Inter Club Championship at the Bedfordshire Golf Club on 16th August.
John O''Gaunt ''A'' emerged succesful on countback with Leighton Buzzard ''A'' runners-up.
The Millbrook GC ''B'' won the handicap prize with Bedfordshire ''B'' runners-up. |
| Captains Mid Season Report |
| Wed 2nd Aug |
League
BB& O v County at Woburn
First League game of the season v BB&O. Believe I had the strongest team available to me.
2 - 2 after am foursomes round the Dukes course. Fair result, wins for Wharton and Callanan, Benson and Gill.
PM singles was always going to be tight. Early win for both sides, then it appeared Beds just had the edge into the back nine. But points we looked favourite for just slipped away over the closing holes. In the end, just the wins for Kemp , Gill and Kirkwood.
A Very disappointed team, when it looked promising for so long.
County Championship
Course was set up very well, thanks to Pavenham staff for making us feel most welcome.
Terrific performances from Kemp and Laino over the weekend, both completing the 72 holes in 8 under. Kemp just sneeking the title in the play off.
Bit disappointed with the scores from the Colts squad members. Thought it was an ideal opportunity for new names to shine on what was a fairly neutral venue.
League
Middx v County at Ealing
On a well presented course, again very even in the AM foursomes. Wins for new partnership of round and Carter, and for ever reliable pair of Benson and Gill.
Singles in the PM saw early points from Wharton and Kirkwood. But it again all came down the stretch with last hole wins for Carter and Gill, with Bensons game ending at the 17th to give the team a 7.5 4.5 victory.
Great team atmosphere, and all showed quality golf at the end when it was needed.
EGU Qualifying Hankley Common
Six a side, 36 hole strokeplay, all scores count. Team of Kemp, Wharton Kirkwood, Benson, Gill and Laino played on an immaculate and testing Surrey course. Scores of note from Benson 74 - 68 for top ten individual finish, and Wharton for a first round 72. Combined Team score of 909, meant Beds ended in a disappointing 10th place.
League
County v Essex at Pavenham
On a scorching hot Sunday, Beds did not get off to a great start in the foursomes. An early win for Carter and Round was looking like our only point, but from dormy 2 down, Kavanagh and Wharton birdied the last two holes to secure a half point, which took us to lunch confidence high, yet trailing 2.5 1.5. Beds came out the blocks fast in the pm singles. Wins for Kemp, Wharton, Carter and Round , a half for Kirkwood, meant just half a point was need for victory. This was brought home by Chris Gill with his 3/2 win in his familiar anchor role position.
Another Excellent Team performance.
Neil Wilson |
| Is your Driver legal? |
| Mon 31st Jul |
The new rules on conforming drivers do not come into force until 2008.
So for many Bedfordshire golfers, the day of reckoning is almost two years away. However there are some events where the conforming driver rules have been already enforced.
For events requiring County Qualifying - The Boy's, Men's and Senior's County Finals, The county Champion of Champions and the Champion Club Tournament, or the Qualifying rounds for these events - the conforming driver rules are already in force.
From Jan 2005, the EGU banned non-conforming drivers from its events listed below:
- The Brabazon Trophy
- Seniors Championship
- McGregor Trophy
- Carris Trophy
- English Amateur Championship
- Reid Trophy
- Logan Trophy
If you are in doubt about your driver, go to the R&A website and click on Driving Clubs. Their site lists every driving club, with a photo to confirm. When using this list, pay close attention to the 'Markings' column which details the exact markings on each clubhead listed. This is the information to identify the club in question or each model of club, as distinguishable from another. |
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| County B Championship |
| Mon 24th Jul |
Paul Kitching of The Millbrook Golf Club won the County B Championship for the second time, played at Leighton Buzzard Golf Club on Sunday 24th July 2006.
Following some heavy overnight rain the course had softened up and Kitching took advantage of some ideal playing conditions to record a 73, despite a double bogey six at the 1st hole when he found trees.
A number of juniors were snapping at his heels with good afternoon scores but Kitching proved his consistency over 36 holes by returning a 75 for an excellent 148 total.
One of the juniors Tom Snelling won the Handicap prize with a morning 73 followed by an excellent 67 which enabled him to win on countback from Darren Leach (The Millbrook) and Richard Essex (Griffin).
John Bateman the Captain of Leighton Buzzard said in his welcoming speech that Leighton Buzzard was a technical course where big hitters could easily run up big numbers, this was the case with some double figure scores being run up by a number of players. |
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Paul Kitching being presented with the County B Championship Trophy
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Tom Snelling, winner County B Handicap
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The President thanks John Bateman of Leighton Buzzard GC
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| Scores | Winners | Past Winners |
| Inexperienced Colts run Middlesex close |
| Sat 22nd Jul |
This was an exceptional performance from a team without too much experience at this level. Debuts were given to Lee Beattie (Aylesbury Vale), Tom Butler (Pavenham Park) and Ross Jones (Dunstable Downs). Tom Langley-Poole playing his first match this year had a good day and his half against a very good James Taverner in the singles was one of the outstanding performances.
Although we lost the match it was Bedfordshire back to their fighting best and gave us encouragement for the future.
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| County v Essex at Pavenham Park |
| Sun 16th Jul |
On a scorching hot Sunday, Beds did not get off to a great start in the foursomes. An early win for Carter and Round was looking like our only point, but from dormy 2 down, Kavanagh and Wharton birdied the last two holes to secure a half point, which took us to lunch confidence high, yet trailing 2.5 1.5. Beds came out the blocks fast in the pm singles. Wins for Kemp, Wharton, Carter and Round, a half for Kirkwood, meant just half a point was need for victory. This was brought home by Chris Gill with a 3/2 win in his familiar anchor role position.
Another Excellent Team performance. |
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County Team at Pavenham Park
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| Result |
| County wins away at Middlesex |
| Sun 18th Jun |
| The Bedfordshire match against Middlesex was played at the Ealing Golf Club, West London. Bedfordshire going into lunch at two points each put up a good fight in the afternoon to take the match against Middlesex on their home patch. |
| Result |
| County Championship |
| Sun 11th Jun |
| John Kemp won a thrilling County Championship after a playoff with Roberto Laino. It was a magnificent performance from Roberto and in the end it was a shame there could be only one winner....John now moves on to the play in the Champion of Champions at Woodhall Spa in September, we wish him all the best. |
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John Kemp. Winner 2006 Amateur Championship
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Roberto Laino. Runner Up and Colts Champion
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Graham Benson. Third and R/U Colts Championship
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| Rounds 1&2 | Rounds 3&4 | Past Winners |
| County v BB&O at Woburn |
| Sun 28th May |
| The Bedfordshire verses BB&O was an away match played at Woburn G C , one could say an away from home venue. The result was a very close encounter the score at lunch being two points each, the afternoon saw BB&O turn the tables on Bedfordshire winning Five of the Eight afternoon matches. |
| Result |
| Eastern Counties Foursomes at Seacroft |
| Sat 20th May |
This tournament is a nine county matchplay foursome event where all nine counties play each other. The County in last place at the end of the two days picks up the WOODEN SPOON.
With a very young squad of 11 players, Bedfordshire had a very disappointing Saturdays play, with only 4 points achieved, the lowest Bedfordshire score it is believed ever known. The officials had a tough Saturday evening discussing new pairings, change of order etc. But come Sunday morning, half way round things started to happen and we scored 5.5 points. Good results for Mark Carter and Chris Sweetnam, Michael Round and Graham Benson, Matt Callanan and Chris Gill. In the afternoon, Bedfordshire scored 6 points to complete a successful day. Notable players from weekend - Chris Sweetnam, Mark Carter and James Cooper. Also the pairing of Chris Gill and Matt Callanan who scored 6 out of 8 points.
Bedfordshire finished the tournament in eighth place, just avioding the wooden spoon, not the position we wish to be in , but a great show of pride and passion from the team on Sunday to bring respectability to our score. |
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The team at Seacroft
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Inside
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| Peak Production Trophy John O'Gaunt |
| Mon 1st May |
3 man Team scratch 36 medal
won by JoG B - Round Tarn Cooper by 3 from
JoG A - Wharton Harris Kemp
Individual - Kemp 142 - 2nd Cooper 143
Impressive score from 16 yr old James Cooper in such a prestigious Competition.
Hopefully a star for the future.
Disappointing turnout from the other county squad members. |
| Paul Fletcher Memorial |
| Sun 23rd Apr |
17 members of the Bedfordshire county squad competed at Bedford & County G C in this Am Am format competition. The competition was used as a County Trial the individual result of which is as follows:
Mark Whartons fine 68 won by 3 from Richard Harris, with 4 players tying 3rd on 72. Steve Kavanagh, Michael Round, Mark Kelly and John Kemp.
This competition continues to grow in stature, thanks to Mike Smith and Bedford & County for organising the event. At the end of the day over £800 pound was raised for charity. |
| Northants v County at Kettering |
| Sun 2nd Apr |
On a very Blustery and wet day, our young side came up against a very strong Northants team. The result does not quite reflect the teams efforts as 7 of the games reached the 18th hole, but sadly only 1½ points went our way. Performances of note from Chris Sweetnam, Mark Carter and Matt Oborne in the morning, with wins for Phil Sutton and Carl Baker in the singles.
The match provided new players with an excellent insight into mens county golf. |
| County Triangular Match at South Beds |
| Sun 19th Mar |
In a new county trial format, this Over 21s v Under 21s v Under 18s of singles matchplay went well. Close match, with the u21s winning by just half point from the over21s
Notable performance from Chris sweetnam and Chris Gill for the colts.
And Mark Carter and Paul Kirkwood for the county mens.
The format was greeted with approval from the players. This format provides an excellent opportunity for the squads to get better aquainted, especially the younger squad members. |
| Cambs v County at Gogs |
| Sun 5th Feb |
Yet again the fixture was cancelled in the preceding week, due to frozen ground conditions. A disappointment to me and to the selected players.
The County have manage to reschedule this fixture next year a couple of weeks later. |
| County select v Colts at John O'Gaunt |
| Wed 1st Feb |
8 aside holes-up match, 9 holes foursomes and 9 holes singles.
County side won 16 holes to 5. A strong county side gave an all round solid display.
Good performances from Niall Johnston and Michael Round for the Colts.
Format seemed to go down well with the players and officials. |
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2008