Foggy frogs and a seaside rescue

20 May 2010

As the Golf Classic 2010 approaches the half way stage, the competition is getting tough with participants playing for a chance to win a place at the Grand Final in October.

This year's final will be held at Woburn Golf Club where finalists will enjoy a round of golf on the famous Duke's Course followed by a prize-giving dinner and overnight stay at the Inn at Woburn. This year's sponsors again include Marley Plumbing & Drainage who have supported the competition for many years

So far the golf has been of a very high standard with lots of eagles and birdies and even a hole-in-one. Playing at Auchmill Golf Course in Aberdeen, Graeme Christie of Morrison Construction hit an 8 iron at the par 3 9th hole, known locally as ‘The Frog'. Weather conditions were not ideal with a blanket of fog over the course, but on arriving at the green, Graeme's ball was found in the hole. "This was my first hole-in-one and I hadn't played the course before!" explained Graeme. He and partner Gary Mennie, also of Morrison Construction, were given a tough match by John Skulina (Glenfield Plumbers) and Ian Fleming (Flemings, Chartered Surveyors), winning by just 2 and 1 in the end. Graeme is now keen to return to the course in better weather to admire the spectacular views across Aberdeen, which were sadly obscured on the day of their match.

Also in Scotland, Nairn Golf Club was the setting for another close match and a rather unusual shot. Richard Smith (Allied Surveyors) and Neil Hampton (Fairways Leisure Group Ltd) played against Jim Sangster (self-employed plumber) and Ewan MacKenzie (W & A Geddes Ltd) on this classic links course back in March. The 3rd hole runs alongside the shore, usually played as a lateral water hazard, but when the tide is out it's possible to play a shot from the beach. Richard's tee shot found its way onto the beach, but as Neil was in a good position he elected to play off the sand with a rescue club, hitting a perfect shot about 195 yards and gaining a half at the hole. He and Neil then went on to win the match.

The Golf Classic continues to offer opportunities to develop new friendships and to foster new business relationships, with matches played in the true spirit of the game and lots of friendly banter on and off the course.