Friendly Comp at The Belfry, Sun 15 March 09

Who's interested in having an event playing on the PGA National at The Belfry on or about Friday 27th March 09 to celebrate the clocks going forward and getting an extra hour of evening golf?  Cost would be £35 each with the following included: -

• 18 holes on the PGA National
• Tea/coffee and a bacon roll on arrival
• Range balls
• Course planner

There is a minimum requirement of 12 players and a maximum of 32 so I want to get an idea of the level of interest before booking anything.  Plan would be for first tee time to be around 10:30am so everyone would be finished playing by around 4:00pm.  We could also add a couple of pounds on to get some prizes if people wanted.  I enquired about the Sunday, the day the clocks actually move, but there is only consecutive tee times for 16 players available (people have booked REALLY early!).   

So who's interested, should we have a prize pot and what does everyone think of the times?

Chris,

Count me in. I could supply some chocolate as prizes . If your going to play for money then 3/4 handicaps should be used. Don't mind putting a few extra quid into the hat for prizes.

John.

I should be fit enough then, so am looking forward to it.

I'd be interested.  Does the 24 handicap limit Paul mentioned in the thread for the game today apply.  I would be up for a small prize fund but could we split into two divisions rather than playing off 3/4 handicaps?

Count me in too please Chris.

Yep, me as well, would love to have a game with you guys.

Theoretically you must be a 24 handicap or better (32 for ladies and juniors), but I've never seen them check a handicap cert and judging by the four ball in front of us today they're letting 57 handicappers out there........ 

Play the PGA with (hopefully) a bit of sun on my back, drier fairways and no ice cold wind?  I'll have some of that Chris.

Count me in Chris.  I'm fairly sure my Golfshake Handicap will be 24 or below by March as I've hit a decent run of form recently.  Not quite so confident about my club handicap which I've just got and is currently 27.  Starting to enter comps in January so you never know. 

Bumped for those who may have not been on at the weekend. 

Sounds interesting! I quite like the sounds of it.

Would you go by your club handicap or the golf shake one? (I just manually adjusted the golf shake one to my club one...)

Stephen one must always play to their lowest handicp and if that is the Golfshake one, then so be it.

Cool, I can play then - as the Goldshake H/C was 24.5 and my club is 19.5. like I said, I manually changed the GolfShake one to match my club H/C.

May be a slight date change as I've noticed there is a clash on this date with the SVGS Spring Open and it may be a little too close to the N v S.  Likely date will be either Friday 13th March or Sunday 15th March 09.  Both dates are currently available but first tee off available on the Sunday is 11:20, meaning the last group in would be in at around 5:00pm. 

Can I have a 'show of hands' as to whether Friday or Sunday is preferred?  My preference is the Sunday. 

Friday would be better for me.

Either will do for me, Chris.

Hi,

Is this open to Golfshake newcomers? If so I'd be interested.

I should be able to make either day with it being quite far off.

Thanks

Chris

Sunday for me, Chris

Anyone and everyone is welcome Chris

Great.

Count me in then.

Cheers.

Chris.

Chris,

Any day with enough notice. I'd take into consideration how busy the course is likely to be on either day though? If the course is busy it might not be a nice experience if the marshall starts to tell people to hurry up etc? Although saying that if your playing stableford people should 'pick-up' if they can't score.

John.

Paul,

If you've got an unlimited amount of funds for golf can you buy me some irons like Santo's got please .

John.

He's not allowed, the missus has found out how much he has spent on golf recently!  He wanted to give up after Friday but the missus wouldn't let him!

He bought 2 pairs of waterproof trousers last week??

I've still got the labels on mine as I haven't had to wear them yet.  Never know what santa will bring.

His missus is forcing him to play now he's bought the kit.  It's like the kid who demands loads of cake so the parents make them eat it until they're sick to teach them a lesson!

Currently have: -

• Friday - 2
• Sunday - 4
• Don't Care - 5

Dave Ley, Tim Hawkins and Jon Williams are still to declare their alligience (if any).  I'll give it until tomorrow and then see what the overriding preference is. 

Nice one Paul.

Chris - don't care which day, both if necessary if it's still for £20.

Paul,

Start to spend some money on lessons now & read some good books about getting your mind ready for next years golf. Oh & stop worrying about your golf & just relax & enjoy it.

John.

thats crazy for waterproofs!

I'd rather go to sports soccer and pay £20 for some dunlops!

I've did that Stephen.  Guess what?  I've just replaced them with Galvin Green trousers and a Sunderland jacket.  Trust me, you will notice the difference.  The Dunlop jacket will keep you dry but weighs as much as a full carry bag and trying to swing in it is like trying to swing underwater.  The trousers will keep you dry on a cold day but if you wear them whent he temperature is above about 10* you will be even wetter on the inside from the sweat. 

When it comes to waterproofs, you get what you pay for.  But if you still want Dunlops then you can have mine for a tenner.  Trousers worn no more than a dozen times, jacket worn once, size large.

Stephen,

It depends on how much you play throughout the winter. If it's not much then go for the Dunlops. If like me you play all year then a good quality set of waterproofs is a sound investment & if looked after properly will last years.

John.

Maybe I'm crazy but i've been playing all winter and haven't worn waterproofs at all (apart from a newcastle united raincoat once)

There's a shop next door to where i work that has a nice stubert waterproof jacket for £50 reduced from £100 or something - maybe if its gonna get wetter i might get one of them.

OK, I'll set up a comp later today when I have confirmation through.  I'll stick a link on this thread.

This event, The Springtime Season Starter, has now been booked, confirmed and created!!!!  Date is Sunday 15th March 09 per general consensus.  Tea/coffee and bacon rolls will be available from 10:00 with first tee time at 11:20.  Link is below, look forward to seeing you there!

http://www.golfshake.com/competition/competitionView.php?ID=4411

12 places booked already, only 8 left.  Get your name down quick if you want to play!!!

If I'm working I'd like to join you for this event.

I would prefer a Sunday, but if it has to be Friday or Saturday then OK.

Russ

Doh, wish it was the friday - cant play the sunday a.t.m

Sorry about that Stephen.  There was always going to be someone who needed a different day though.  Only four places left......

you can put kevin shearsby down for any day

You have to put yourself down, Kevin, only four spaces left.

It's set up as a comp Kev, the Springtime Season Starter.  Just join in the usual way. 

Sorry for the lack of response earlier Chris I,ve been away for Xmas and did not have access to a computer.  I have booked myself in.  Thanks for organising it. 

Jon, Kev,

You're not showing on the competitior list yet.  Can you click on the link below, then click on the link that says "Click here to register".  There's a link on there (yes anouther!) to actually register yourself. 

http://www.golfshake.com/competition/competitionView.php?ID=4411

EDIT - Just seen the note from Jon and Allan on the message board.  I'll get you both added. 

I've had notes saying there are people who have registered for this comp but their names are not showing on the list.  I've asked Darren to investigate but having experienced this before and knowing of a 'dirty' fix, can the following please try to add themselves again: -

• Allan Bostock
• Jon Williams
• Kev Shearsby
• Darren Millichip

Let me know how you get on.  Thanks. 

I have added again and am now showing as "waiting user admin"

Try again

You're in Darren

Tried again and my name has been added to the list of competitors as 'waiting user admin'.

You're in Jon

Given the level of interest (we will be oversubscribed), I've arranged for an additional two tee-off times, giving us up to 28 players.  I have to confirm whether we need all of them by the end of Jan, so I will be cutting off entry at the end of the month.  If you don't have your name down on the list and want to play, or know of someone else in the same position, please get your name down ASAP.  Apparently the course is getting quite busy that weekend so it's unlikely I will be able to get us any further tee times (32 is the max they allow anyway). 

Given the recent problems with registering, can I ask everyone who has put their name down to check and make sure they are on the list. 

I'm unemployed at the moment but if I start work in time then I'll have to hope there is a place left for me, if not then next time.

I'll put my name down as soon as I'm back at work.

Russ

Dear Mr Govan

You have been humbly accepted.  Look forward to seeing you there. 

23 places out of 28 taken, with 3 people having tried to register but not yet on the list due to the registration problems we have been having.  Two of those have PM'd me today and told me they are definites.  That means there are only 2 guaranteed places left, 3 at the most. 

Get your name down quick if you want to play.  Should be a good one. 

With such large numbers attending this event, Chris, perhaps Golfshake would allow it to be an authorised event for the Golfer of the Year trophy won by Martin.

Darren is hoping to attend John.  If he does I would hope to convince him but I fear that the handicap restriction the club operates may mean it's not truly open to all and for that reason he doesn't allow it.  However, there are a couple of names down who currently do not meet the restriction......

Taking on board comments from another thread about rewarding good golf, I'm also thinking of replacing the long drive prize with a Secret Six.  I'll get the starter to write down six holes of his choosing and put them in an envelope before we play.  At the end of the round, the player with the lowest total gross on those six holes wins.  As no-one (including me) knows the holes prior to play it means that the player with the most consistent round is most likely to win. 

Chris,

I don't think the Belfry will be checking any handicap certificates & as we all know anyone can have a 'mare' on the day so I don't think that the difference between a 24 & 28 handicapper is going to be massive. If any 28 h'cappers want to play tell them to tell the starter there a 24 h'capper??

Just don't put them in my group

John.

All,

This event is now FULL.  The list of players attending is: -

• Chris Perry
• Kevin Hewitt
• John Pettitt
• Wayne Santorini
• Tim Hawkins
• Martin Millichip
• Dave Ley
• Mark Sobey
• Paul Heath
• Chris Brannon
• Lee Miller
• Paul Williams
• Phillip Newton
• David Marshall
• John Flood
• James Illsley
• Darren Millichip
• Allan Bostock (you still need to accept Allan)
• Kevin Shearsby
• Jon Williams
• Stuart Govan
• Kevin Swain
• Alan Davison
• Timothy Buffham
• Paul Hindmarsh
• Ian Prince
• Rob Camplisson
• Darren Ramowski

Sorry if you didn't get on in time but I can't get any further tee times (I've tried).  If you can't make it please let me know so that someone else can have the chance.  If anyone has any preference of who they do (or don't!) want to be grouped with, or a preference for an early or late tee off, let me know by either the comp message board or PM. 

Put me as a 1st reserve chris - just cleared it this morning that i can get there!

OK Stephen.  Shame you didn't get in a little quicker, but you never know.

I'm sure someone will drop out (or prey more like)

OK guys, important update for you all. 

I've managed to negoitate with The Belfry that instead of giving us course planners and range tokens they will give us vouchers to the value of £6 per player to use as a prize fund instead.  This means that we will have a prize fund of £168 (plus whatever I can blag from Darren!) and that the cost of the competition is now £36.40, which includes the PayPal commision.  Course planners and range tokens will still be available on the day for those who want them, but by doing things this way it not only brings the cost of the comp down but mean that some players aren't lumbered with things they don't want (or already have). 

I'll PM you all with the payment details shortly.  Payment is required one month before the comp per The Belfry's terms.  I will refund the difference to those that have paid already. 

Chris,

Id also like an early tee off, not bothered about playing partners.

John.

OK John, I get the message, you want an early tee off!

I've had a chat with The Belfry and managed to get one more tee time.  This means that there is now a maximum of 32 players, the largest society gathering that The Belfry will allow.  There are three people on the reserve list - Stephen Falcus, Neil Beech and James Marshall.  If these people still want to play can they register ASAP or let me know otherwise. 

This also means there is one additional slot now available.  First come, first served.  Anyone else will be added to the reserve list in order of application and willl be given a spot if there are drop outs. 

Certainly is Lee.  Surprised me as I originally only set it up for 20 players.  I think it's a combination of a good price for a good course, people eager to get back out and play and a good warm up for the North v South.

And why have you got a Marseille player as your avatar, I thought you were a Sunderland fan?

I have indeed.  James (via his dad) has confirmed he will be entering tonight, Stephen has read his PM but not registered yet and Neil is a night-time attendee. 

just need to speak with the old wife christopher

No problem.  Has the new one already said yes then?

she lives in the cage so she wont even know i've gone tbh

I've taking it for granted that it's 3/4 Hcp Chris?

hope not ;-)

Per the information on the comp homepage Dave: -

"Competition will be Stableford off full handicaps."

I understand why high handicappers would want to go off full handicaps and low handicappers off ¾, as if everyone meets the maximum 24 handicap requirement and we play off ¾, no-one will get more than one stroke per hole.  Also, with yourself and Martin only losing two shots whilst Darren, Lee and Tim Buffham would lose 7 it does swing things in favour of the better golfers and nullify the bandit effect.  I do think that the course itself will do that anyway as you have to have a good all round game to score well. 

I have tried to load the prizes to reward good golf as opposed to having lots of shots to waste; that's why there's a nearest the pin (skill required) but no long drive.  I've replaced the long drive with a secret six, which will be six holes as selected by the starter, written on a piece of paper and put into an envelope.  No-one, not even me, will know which holes have been selected until after the round.  At the end of the round, the lowest cumulative GROSS score on those six holes wins the prize.  A seventh hole will be named in case there is a tie, after that it will be on gross over the full 18. 

I am, however, a reasonable man and subject to sufficient bribery and backhanders the basic format could be changed. 

sounds good as it is 2 me

I only asked as thats what we did last time and the scores were relatively close. I have no problem with what you have done organiser just asking a qestion.

Wayne no need to shout i can read lower case and who does stapleford favor??

We did that last time Dave as someone (a non-golfshake member) threw his teddies somewhat when we said full handicaps.  I expect it was pure coincidence he plays off around 5.  Didn't help him as Paul and Tim kept talking on the previous green as he went into his backswing on the tee.........

Well, Neil Beech, Dale Unwin and James Marshall are now in - 31 out of 32 places gone.  If Steve's wife allows him to play we're all full up again.  If she doesn't then there's a place left.  Be interesting to find out who wears the trousers in the Falcus house tonight......

I remember now Chris not only did he not play to his Hcp he didn't play to yours either! He shot off sulking aswell i believe.........................My moneys on Mrs Falcus.

He claims he was outside on the phone.  I was there for an hour afterwards and didn't see him.  And he didn't play to mine, yours and his combined, and that's full not ¾!!!

The bookies are not even taking bets on Mrs Falcus.  We all know the real score.  Maybe he should mention that it's only 20 minutes to the centre of Birmingham for designer shopping in Selfridges or lots of bargains in the Jewellery Quarter.  He'll get to play but it'll be a VERY expensive round!!!

I cunningly got in on a 'That will make a nice birthday treat for me instead of a present' with my wife. Even better now it has been brought forward 12 days it is well before my birthday so she will have 8 days to crack and buy me something to unwrap on the day.

oh, she wont be coming with me!

will report back later after 'the talk'

If i don't reappear its because i am too ashamed to bring my 'whipped' arse back on here..............

Good night Stephen.................................

Yes, I will be attending.

woo hoo

Have you decided who's playing with me and you Chris..............?

I could use some help/advice/tips from the better players!!!

Lee, just because you take a few more shots doesn't mean you are any slower at playing this game

Somewhere in the middle is best for me so i can hit some balls at the range first.

(would love to beat the mackem on the day)

I'll start putting some groups together at the weekend.  I don't plan to have the high handicappers last, rather trying to get balanced groups out.  I've had some preferences for tee times and playing partners but I'll give everyone until the end of the week to get in their requests.  I'll then sort it out on the comp page and post the list here.  I'll also post the proposed prizes. 

Looking forward to this guys, should be good. 

It will be good DESPITE you're there!

Provisional groupings and subsequent tee times are below and have been based on trying to get a balance of playing abilities in all groups.  I have accomodated the requests I have received for early/middle/late tee off and playing partner requests wherever I can, although I struggled with Stu Govan asking to play with Dave Marshall and Dave saying he was going to throw his teddies out if I put them together.  If anyone has major issues with their group or time, let me know and I will do my best to ignore you .   

Group 1 - 11:20
Chris Perry
Dave Ley
John Pettitt
Neil Beech

Group 2 - 11:30
John Flood
Martin Millichip
Phillip Newton
Wayne Santorini

Group 3 - 11:40
James Marshall
Jon Williams
Kevin Swain
Rob Camplisson

Group 4 - 11:50
Darren Millichip
Darren Ramowski
David Marshall
Paul Williams

Group 5 - 12:00
Allan Bostock
James Illsley
Lee Miller
Mark Sobey

Group 6 - 12:10
Alan Davison
Kevin Shearsby
Paul Hindmarsh
Stephen Falcus

Group 7 - 12:20
Kevin Hewitt
Paul Heath
Tim Hawkins
Timothy Buffham

Group 8 - 12:30
Chris Brannon
Dale Unwinn
Ian Prince
Stuart Govan

I see you've put yourself with the infamous Mr Pettit??

Just as long as you don't hold me & Wayne up it should be OK

With Wayne's pink outfit & my GPS were quids in

John.

From thebelfry.co.uk18th hole guide.....

"Keep the ball left of the intimidating oak or a punch shot towards the clubhouse awaits."

Guess every one gets to see me make a balls of this one then?

Wayne,

At least if we were first they would be able to watch 'proper' golf shots. Oh well at least we'll be able to watch Chris put his balls into the lakes!!

John.

Well I have no objections to you going first, Wayne, I would hate to hold you up, now that you are a class act with the new wishons. John F is still bloated from the ombersley chocolate, so perhaps he should start last.

John,

If I start last I'd need a miners hat to help me finish the round

If I have any chocolate left by March I'll donate a few bars as a 'wooden spoon' prize.

John.

Make sure you don't win them back John, I have backed you to win at very short odds, so don't let me down. I will put the mockers on my playing partners with my style of golf.

I am going to win.....................................

FK ALL!

just looked at the course guide and it looks very tough, there are some drives over bunkers about the 240/250 carry mark - I know i wont be able to resist a go and end up screwing them up.

I'm gonna need to buy an odd 3 iron too for the 200 yd par 3.

He does not have Wishons and your technique, Wayne so don't be harsh on him. There is not a club I can put in my bag that will get me to the green on that hole.

Wayne,

It say's to club up, longest iron i have is a 5 which i can get 190 yds but i'd rather a controlled swing than a fully blown one, never been faced with that long a par 3 before!

My irons are £150 wilson prostaff's - not exactly great!

I'll just have to outdrive you, then you might wanna go off the reds ;-)

Don't you believe that, Stephen, Wayne can pump them out when he wants to.

Hole 8 is 187 yards off the yellows.  Depending on the wind direction and strength, it's anything from a 5 iron to a driver.  Seriously! 

Oh, and it's over a pond and a stream, if you're off the back the rough is nasty and the pin is normally tucked behind the bunker on the left.  Be VERY happy with a par on this hole.  This will not be the nearest the pin hole........

Here's a link to the course overview.  Have a look at 8, but also 4, 12 (my favourites), 3 and 14.  Bet at least half of the players take the bunker on when on hole 14!

http://www.thebelfry.co.uk/index.cfm/section/info/display/6/content/111/pganationalcourseguide.htm

Know that par 3 well now.  Played it 3 times, twice in the lake and once in the left hand bunker - I'm getting closer...  Have used hybrid (water), 5 wood (water) and 3 wood (bunker), driver next time if the wind is up.

Personal favourite has got to be the 4th.  Choice of tee shots - 180yd carry over the lake to the 40yd wide neck of the fairway or the safe option to the mound at 210yd but no water.  The first leaves a 110yd pitch over the deep bunkers onto the green, the second 170yds to the green over various hills and small lake.  Ace. 

180yd carry should be a piece of pss.

I'll probs use a 4 iron on the 8th if its 186, get about that with a 5 but it advises to club up.

Looking forward to one that says if you get over a 240 yd carry its a big downhill slope, should be some 300+ drives on there (would have been ideal for longest drive chris!)

"180yd carry should be a piece of pss."

Indeed it is Stephen, that's the problem.  You then only have around 35 yards of grass to stop it on or you're in the next lake.  The narrow neck to the left of the second lake is only about 5 yards wide so you have to be deadly accurate to drive the first and miss the second.  There's also a bunker to the left of the neck and heavy rough to stop you trying to keep it away from the water.  Driving both lakes is neither an option nor achievable. 

Great hole. 

so its a long iron or hybrid for the shot that has to stop within 210.

Gonna be great fun and a good challenge for me!

Just hope i can keep my tee shots straight and ride a bit of confidence otherwise i'm screwed and will limp home with about 18 points like a few weeks ago!

I'll be right behind you Stephen watching you breeze these holes.  Take the PGA on at your peril...

I expect Messers Davison, Hindmarsh and Shearsby to goad him into taking on the monster bunker on the corner of the 14th.  Great if you get it right, buried in the sand, into a steep bank or lost in the gorse to the right if you don't.  

How many of you guys will (like me) be playing this course for the first time?

First time for me, although I have played the Brabazon a few times. Hoping this course is better as I am not impressed with the Brabazon.

Everyone I have spoken to who has played both have said that this is better John.  I know one of the greenkeepers at The Belfry and he said he would rather play the Derby than the Brabazon and the PGA is generally considered the best of the three. 

I am looking forward to it Chris, only hope that I can see by then and also able to walk.

My superior length off the tee will be the difference.

Buggies are available if booked in advance John.  If that makes a difference to whether or not you can play due to your knee, then I will gladly split the cost with you. 

Its a good honest course John not  flash just good a test,plays longer than the yardage suggests and a couple of challenging par 3's especially if the winds up. I prefer over the Brab.

Thank you for that very kind offer, Chris, I gratefully accept. No chance of anyone catching us up now. Can I play of Daves drives as well?

The Derby should be dug up and houses built on it!!

It's not a Texas Scramble John!

There's a good reason why the Brab is better quality Jonny.  The Belfry have 24 greenkeeprs on duty every day; 12 for the Brab, 7 for the PGA, 5 for the Derby.  It's not that he struggles with the Brab, he just feels that the Derby is more of a golf course than the Brab.  He likened it the Brab to a trophy wife - she can't cook, can't clean and is can't hold a conversation but she looks good and your friends who don't have to live with her are impressed.  I can't comment as I haven't played the Brab, but almost everyone I have spoken to seems to be of the same opinion. 

Don't worry Chris it will be my first visit.  It will also be my first Golfshake comp and first proper comp anywhere.  Having looked at the course planner the nerves are already kicking in but I am sure that there will be plenty of supportive fellow golfers there putting us at our ease.   

Jon, if you think the nerves are kicking in now then wait until you turn up.  The place has got a buzz about it that different to other corporate venues, can't really put my finger on why - I suppose it's just about the golf really.  And then you'll get up onto the first tee, the Brabazon Lake in the background, a great big wide fairway in front of you - and a massive bunker on the left - and all you've got to do it is just stroke it up the fairway.....

Jon, Don't worry about it there's members on here, mentioning no names, who are experienced golf shakers who knobbed it off the 1st at the PGA 40 yrds.

John.

Typical exageration John, my first shot went left about 20yds onto the Brabazon.

I think he means my first when the 7 of us played Tim.  And it was more like 41 yards anyway!  He fails to mention the first time we played there and I sailed a beauty straight down the middle, drawing a round of applause from the two onlooking Japanese four-balls! 

I do agree about it being different to other corporate venues though.  I think it's because it's a golf course first and hotel second, as opposed to the De Vere and Marriott places where it's a hotel with agolf course attached.  The Belfry uses the golf to get people into the hotel where the others use the hotel to sell the courses. 

It is a bit nerve wracking when you play your first event with a bunch of lads you've never met before Jon, but you're in a group with Rob who has never played in an event before and the other two lads have only played in a couple.  I played at Staverton with Kev and I'm sure he'll look after you.  By the time you tee off you'll have seen Dave Ley slap it bullet straight 250 yards and Santo take a fanny, so you'll have seen the best and worst and the pressure will be off.  And you can't do worse than my first event - I came in plumb last with 14 points and had to put up with Santo all the way round!

Jon W,

I see you are in Notts. You should get your name down for the 3 counties winter league games. The last one was my first event at Ramsdale Park and was good fun. The next one is a week on Sunday at the Lincolnshire and not far off is one at Bondhay.

Chris

I did enjoy it Wayne, but it was back in the days where I would allow bad shots to get to me and you saw the disastarous results that caused.  I just don't care anymore! 

During my darker, younger days whilst looking for a proper job I did some sales work.  My boss was of the opinion that on any given day you are going to get a set number of No's and a set number of Yes's.  Given that this is the case, a 'No' is good because it means you have got one out of the way and your chances of a 'Yes' are better the next time round!  Bizarre thinking, but it helps you get through a morning of nothing but No's.  I now take this on the course with me.  I realise that I am going to have a number of bad shots in any given round - every time I hit one, that's one of them out of the way. 

1st hole is nice and inviting on the PGA.  Clear view down the fairway and fairly nice and open.

Shame you can end up with a gallary congregating around the tee, given it's near the marshalls office and the 1st of the Brab   squeaking bum time

Its a shame that I'm off in group 6 as thats a lot of people to miss out on seeing the best 1st tee shot of the day!

Stephen,I hope you don't get to regret that arrogant statement........................or do I?  This is not the north v south thread.

Lol, arrogant no, overly ambicious/light hearted optimism yes.

No doubt i'll be in the shrubs now!

Just so you know where you're playing your second shot of the day from Stephen, the hole on the right is the PGA 18th, the hole on the left is the Brabazon 1st.  Feel free to let us know whether you tried to play the shortest round in history or tried to get a free upgrade........ 

lol, I'll just get my moneys worth and stay right in the middle (i hope)

which route were you aiming to take with your 40.5 yard duffer that time?

Chris's shot was aimed dead centre of the green,  just avoiding the bunkers guarding the pin.  Just 290yds short.

I plan to ask the missus to come down and do some photography for the first hour.  As we only live 10 minutes away it's no biggie for her to go home afterwards.  I'll make sure that I point Mr Falcus out to her and make sure she switches to video mode!

I laid up as planned Tim, just shorter than I intended.

Cool - bring it on

There's £250 right there off Harry Hill.

Just make sure that you're not commando on the day Stephen or playing your second with your trousers round your ankles after your fanny will be even more embarrassing, especially if it's cold......

I hope I hit a corker after all this like!

lol @ harry hill - i want the money mind!

Hey, I just looked at the groupings unlucky  Floody,Martin and Phil.

Ear protection will be provided free of charge to all in groups 1, 2 and 3.  Except Santo, he's getting a gag......

I'm not saying he's LOUD but he can give an anadin a headache!!

I cant believe it we've made him speachless...LOL

A dose or glandular fever couldn't leave Santo speechless

"I hope I hit a corker after all this like!

lol @ harry hill - i want the money mind"

It's never going to happen now Stephen and I'm sure we will hear the laughter whilst walking  up the 6th.

I tempted to shove him in the first group now just so the pressure's really on!

He will still be teeing off fourth!

If Neil doesn't mind swapping groups I have no problem with it. 

Still two months until we play, I'm monitoring handicaps to ensure no banditry is occurring.   

OK guys, Al Bostock may have to withdraw due to work commitments.  There are currently three people on the waiting list who will be given precedence based on the order they asked to be added.  Top of the list will get Al's place if he has to withdraw.  I may be able to sneak one extra tee time as long as we fill it but I can't promise as we are already at The Belfry's theoretical maximum for a society. 

Is there anyone else who is not down to play that wants to? 

Entry to the comp is currently blocked but if you try to register in the usual way (link below) I will be informed and will add you to the reserve list in the order you apply.  Please let me know ASAP

http://www.golfshake.com/competition/competitionView.php?ID=4411

I don't mind playing with Santo, I find his banter takes my mind off the golf. Chris, I hope you've got plenty of memory when your missus tapes Stephen, if it takes him that long to swing his club she'll be there forever

No John F, what it means is that your starting time is a little bit later than advertised, assuming he comes into the first group off.

The video is in slow motion! The first swing is after 32 seconds, its slowed down 4 times so its only 8 seconds!  JEES!!!

1st group eh! some good players to get tips from in there!!!

You lot have no idea how much i'm gonna practise that 1st tee shot! I will never,ever,ever live it down after this hype!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And there won't be any pressure at all with at least 31 sets of eyes watching on......

I think I might move myself into the last group.......

1st group is fine with me chris. Then if i tee off before you and get it right, the pressure falls squarely back at your feet!

so any clean contact even if I slice it will be ok?

I'll take that bet.

Just booked my warm up game at this course;

http://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/lindenHall/golf/tourthecourse.htm

Should be a decent challenge and set me in goo stead.

Leave the groupings alone you've done a fine job organiser especially keeping DM and SG 4 groups apart

How about a prize for the shortest drive on the first?

That's mine, Tim, even with your renowned backspin.

One thing for sure is that being the first group in one of us will be clubhouse leader.

You got no chance on winning that John,  Chris , Tim & paul have practiced it to much mind you what I witnessed would not qualify they didn't make  the fairway which is about 50yrds carry.

I want to play off your drives to give me a chance, Dave.

Cheeky bugger Dave, the only shot you saw me play on the first was a low, slow fade into the bunker on the left at about 200 yds!

And John, if you want to play off Daves drives get him to borrow my driver, it's got 20yds on his! 

You sure did Tim, I believe it was another day you joined the short drive club??. Since you've had your new pured buillt driver I think them days are behind you.

Thanks for the encouragement above and although I am feeling nervous it is balanced by the anticipation of playing a good course and meeting a lot of you.  I will have played with Martin, Tim and Lee before then so hopefully I won't feel a complete newby.

Chris I have eyed up the Winter League but weekends are a bit of a problem.  I tossed up between Bondhay and Belfry as they are close together and just came down in favour of the latter.  However if the Winter League runs next year I should be able to get to a couple.

Chris after just reading yours and paulie's scorecards from yesterday I won't mention 3/4 hcp agian.Whats going on fellas??

Please leave excuses below:-

David, their performance yesterday reminded me of my History teachers' comment on my achieving 0% in my GCE History paper - DISGRACEFUL RESULT.

Couldn't agree more John after custom fitting and a spate of lessons I was expecting better things.It could be worse though John if they were playing for the South.

Chris admitted to me that in the last NvS him and John F won 6/5 against two players loaned to the South, yet living further north than either Chris or John. So in actual fact we won the match. The North fiddled us.

They will need to fiddle allot harder this year John. It will be interesting to see the scores from Conwy tomorrow. I can't see Santo being beaten with home advantage and Wishoned up.

Harsh DL, harsh

You are probably right Darren,I'm just bitter as I'm stuck at home recouperating.lol.

180 balls, that is nearly three rounds of golf, no wonder you were worn out after six holes.

You have now learned lesson number one, just when you think you have cracked this game it has a habit of shooting you in the foot.

I am expecting to see a good swing when we catch up with each other Paul.

Dave,

Paul started off OK & then faded. Chris started off bad & got it together for a few holes & then faded.

I got caught out on the par 3 8th, I landed in the front bunker from my tee shot & took 6 to get out (bloody 6!!!).

John.

It was weird.  When I arrived I just didn't have my golf head on.  Swing was awful, couldn't concentrate.  Was almost as if I couldn't be arsed.  Pulled the swing together on the third tee (it did drift in and out for the rest of the round though) but my putting was awful all day - all 42 of them!  I could read the line (although I did get one dramatically wrong!)  but I just couldn't get the pace right and was over-hitting everything.  I'm putting this down to my last few games being on temporary greens and these greens being quite quick.  I eventually got the measure of the pace on the 14th and started knocking them in. 

Paul suffered his standard 'two bad holes, head drops' routine and John came back in really strongly - think he was one over for the last 4 holes and only around 5 over for the back 9.  And just to make John feel a little better, while he was trying to get out of his bunker on the 8th, I took 3 to get out of the other one.   

My game was bloody rained off on Sunday.

Had a good front 9 on saturday though, after a 7 on the 1st, I took advantage of a temp tee mat which shortened the par 4 2nd to about a 220 carry over the lake, Smashed my 3 wood (my driver has been all over recently) and landed just short of the green, chipped on and putted for a birdie 3. Then finished the front 9 with a score of 40.

Back 9 I started to fall apart from the 14th where the holes start to get longer, I hit one fairway out of 5 and ended up with 55 for the back 9.

My driver used to be my most consistant club but at the minute I can't hit for sh*t

Stephen,

I thought you would have hit a 5 iron to the 2nd?

John.

lol.

Somewhat beyond my reach i'm afraid John.

I have a smoother more controlled swing now.

180 or so with a 5.

Different driver and different swing now Paul - I will deliver 250 (if i can hit the ball) but cant hit as far with this Tour Burner compared to my old Saussie 5900.

Driver has been poor over the past few weeks, maybe I'll end up having to hit a 3 wood!

Sounds like some bottling and back peddling to me.......

I'll still hit my 3 wood further than your drive if it comes to it :-)

Big words.  Question is "Will you be able to draw it round the tree 50 yards to the right of the fairway that you've put yourself behind?"

LOL

I do hit a bit of a fade with my 3wood actually.

Its ok, I'm sure I will get some tips on the range before hand and I'll be swinging the Driver ok.

I ask myself - Why does he have a handicap of 24 when he hits the distances he says he hits ?

I don't really have a preference about how far I hit it off the tee. Played in plenty of pro-ams and learnt to ignore thefact that maybethey are 20 - 40 yards in front of me.

Sounds to me like Mr falcus needs to be thinking about working on other parts of his game and not worry about how far or how hard he can hit a golf ball !!!!!!!!!!!!!

John Pettit has promised to give me a few pointers before we start.

I believe John to be a man of his word...

I am going to love the groan of dissapointment from everyone when my 1st tee shot sails up the fairway!

Will be the highlight of the day!!!

Stephens drive will look brilliant compared to mine. I might play safe with an eight iron.

Martin,

This is all banter instigated by Dave Ley I think - not me!

I am working on all aspects of my game all of the time, 90% of my practice is with a 6 iron, which may be why my driving has gone off lately.

and Paul, the pressure wont make me duff it, just my own lack of confidence in the club if i am not swinging correctly at the time (which i am not at the minute)

There is far too much to learn in the time i've been playing!

Thats what i'll do.

1st tee means (well previousley didn't) mean anything to me, but its a big spectacle now!

No one knows what I look like so I might send a mate who plays off 12 to play as me.

Just note guys that we are all a FREINDLY lot on Golfshake and even though there is plenty of ribbing and banter flying around we don't intend it to be as serious as some people make it to be.

I am as competitive as the next man but please do not let it get to you or make you nervous about playing in your first event. Once that first tee shot is hit no matter how nervous you think you feel, you will wonder what all the fuss was about when you come off the first green !!

Have to agree with Martin and Pauls comments above Stephen, yes you will get a bit of a ribbing if you do fluff the first.  However, what you should realise is as a newbie you are a long way down the list on the level of piss takeingness (?) compared to some of the other, more experienced golfshakers.  I can think of at least 9 or 10 others (including me!) who would get a lot more than you should they have a duffer on the first.  It's all part of the learning process and learning to take it is part of the delight of playing with these guys.  The upside of it is that for a few seconds embarrasement you'll get free lessons from some of the most experienced golfers I've come across.

Just like Sunday at Conwy, was out in the first group 2nd to tee off, wind howling off the left OB down the right. Yep, you guessed it promptly put it OB. Then my second was about a foot inside the ropes.

Who was the first to take the piss - the King of Piss himslelf Mr Wayne Santorini "Oh you haven't put it OB have you"

I had the last laugh when I saw his F9 score !!!!!!!!!!

I'm fine with the banter - enjoy it.

I will give as much as I get, well try too anyway, Chris has got a bloody camera crew coming and Dave Ley has made a provisional enquiry to You've been framed to see if its an acceptable clip to send in!

I'm very much looking forward to it! wouldnt drive over 200 miles to come otherwise!

Paul, I forgot about the swing vids (DAMN)

"Martin,

This is all banter instigated by Dave Ley I think - not me!"

Stephen, If you stick your head above the wall with us lot your gunna get shot at.

Paulie, you wont see Stephen hit 280-300 yrds, He has fessed up he got  confused with feet and yards !! lol.

lol,

If I want to hit it that far I can generate enough club head speed to do it, but I am not good enough to hit consistantly at those speeds yet, hence slowing it down a bit.

You must be the only person I know trying to reduce their yardages, If you learn what i told you about your hips clearing  you can swing as fast as you like. Go watch AK on the tube.

you can teach me on the 15th if you like dave?

Highest club head speed I've had on moniter is 112  mph.

Just lost it a bit recently with the driver

 here's your homework

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJyqplX4sRc

The payments are flying in and there are 10 people on the waiting list hoping that someone will fail to pay or drop out.  Will they get a game?  Only those with their name down can decide.......

There's one potential drop out due to work commitments, but they will be confirming in a couple of days.  I'm hoping John's eye recovers in time for my lesson him to play. 

The key one will be people failing to pay on time meaning I give their place someone else. 

I am determined to be there, Chris. Being noted for my excellent driving I am hoping to hit it further than Stephen.

At the moment there is no improvement in the eye at all, but still two weeks of eye drops to go, so will try not to be too pessimistic.

The knee is not good enough to be able to walk round but a buggy will solve that problem. I am looking foward to getting you hitting the ball properly and am backing you to win the day.

Oh, and just a point of interest for the 187 yard par 3 8th.  It was playing into a moderate wind on Friday (about 15 mph) so I took out my driver.  I struck it well, struck it straight and was short of the green - I typically drive around the 240 yard mark.  Pray that it is not blowing into your face on this hole on the 15th March!

Don't panic, Paul, I will sort you out. Sorting myself out is the biggest problem. The brain tells me one thing and the body just cannot do it. I don't suppose the long lay off will help either.

I had a scare last week - thought I'd re-fractured a double break from last year in my ankle, ok now though.

I am actually hitting my 3 wood further than my driver at the minute due to more roll but will see where I am at the time.

John, you are going to be a busy man helping all of us out! You'll be sloshed in the bar afterwards with all the drinks you'll be owed!

My irons are good at the min, just my driver thats shaky - I will sort that out in due course though.

Only shaky, Stephen, one can play with a shaky driver, it is the one that has a mind of its own like mine, that is a problem.

After the drive I have to concentrate like mad to make no more than bogey.

Is a 3 wood much shorter than your driver john?

I don't have a three wood anymore, Stephen. I have a five wood, which is no better than my driver.

I tend to swing too quick with the woods, this is the problem. I try something different on ever tee shot and even if I hit a repectable one I cannot transfer that feeling to the next tee shot. All in the mind, I know.

Stephen,

I suppose you can live with losing about 20yrds with your 3 wood. 260 yrds is still a decent hit

John.

According to the vector my 3 wood carry's 230 yds. Never really measured it on a course.

There is a 306yd par 4 about where the green is about 80ft lower than the tee box and I'm about 20yds short of the green if i hit a good 3 wood.

Only consistant from the tee with it though, hitty missy from the fairway.

What about a rescue club John, you can get a 1 or 2 rescue and its a similar swing to an iron - might be worth a go with a demo.

Stephen, I bought a Taylor Made Burner 19 deg  rescue club, why I do not know, as I can hit an iron just as far with much more control. It is still in the boot of my car as new as the day it was purchased.

21 payments now received, only 11 outstanding.  The 10 people on the waitlist will be concerned about getting a place now.  Group 1 was the first to pay up in full, Group 6 has also paid up completely.  If you haven't had a PM from me confirming receipt, I haven't had your payment. 

I didn't name any names, but that's a guilty conscience mate.  Typical bloody accountant though, always trying to delay payment to the last minute......

Full handicaps, stableford.  Secret six will be on gross, not net.

Yipee!

I doubt i'll figure anywhere.

My goal for the day is to hit a straight drive off the 1st tee

you aswell as many others.

I expect I will either get a sarcastic 'wey hey' if i hit it well or a haaaaaa, hahahahahaha, haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa, hahahahahahaaaaa! if i dont!

You know the rules Wayne nobody I build clubs for is allowed to beat me!! lol.

If  I wasn't so pleased about peoples performances whether it's equipment I've built or tuition I've given it would be tragic as they beat me allot of the time. lol.

Can I have some then please Dave?

What you want more......Ok , stop trying to slow your swing down with your driver swing as hard and as fast as you can . The provision is you must keep in balance once you've lost that game over. Your young and fit enough to achieve this. Did you look at AK like I suggested??

I'll give you one Steve (a tip that is).  On March 15th, the green is driveable on the par 4 14th as long as you are willing to take the tiger line over the corner.  I went for it last Friday (my drives are normally around 230-240 yards), pulled it well left but was still only left around 50 yards to the green from the left of the fairway.  Had I been on line, I would've only been around 20-30 yards short so a big hitter will be able to get there. 

Question is, will you have the bottle to go for it.......

I did indeed, however I was thinking more along the lines of in person, on the range at the belfry.... lol

We'll see what happens on the day. If i'm swinging ok I will more than likely go for it.

Depends also on how the people in my group attack it (unless im teeing off 1st)

What did you do about the groupings Chris? you mentioned it then never confirmed either way.

NO need to worry Stephen, I can assure you that your drive will look brilliant in comparison to mine. At Ombersley I had a quick low scuff no more than 120 yds into the left hand trees.

Groups are as stands.  I've had no requests for changes to times or playmates. 

Why does what someone else in your group does effect your approach Steve?  It's not matchplay.  It's you versus the course; play your own game, it doesn't matter what anyone else does. 

It is indeed Santo.  I'm very capable at watching someone hit a good shot and follow it with a rubbish one!

Kevin, you are not good enough to produce a rubbish shot to order.

Just so I can see what the line is, I dont know what the holes like so copying the result of a good shot could be advantageous.

I was referring to you saying you were tempted to move me into the 1st group, wasn't sure if you were being serious or not and it went quiet after that.

I'm the type of person that'll probably go for it tbh, cant resist.

The line is fairly simple on the 14th.  Follow down the line of the fairway on the left or cut the corner directly towards the flag that's fluttering away, tempting you, taunting you, daring you...... 

But watch the cavernous bunker protected by high mounds that throw you into the sand that you have to go over and the gorse to the right.......

Kev, I've now played with you enough to know how unique and varied your talents are , almost magical ,on the lines of..........hmmm  Houdini.

Yes, Dave, 300 yard 3 irons.

I witnessed it myself, Kevin so please do not try and wriggle out of it. The shot was obscene. 10th Waterloo, Sherfield Oaks.

That's right John ,I want get that club on my loft & lie machine I'm sure it's about 12*.lol.

Group 7 now fully paid up.  10 left to pay........

No probs Kev. Moonshine??

Here's a question for you Mr Ley.  Will your ultrasonic cleaner take off the rust that has appearred one of the grooves of my 9 iron and PW

Try hitting the ball with the grooved part of the face instead of the bottom, Chris.  That'll keep the rust off......

RUST, what on a golf club, sacrilege.

I think I must have failed to dry them properly after use John.  I'm gutted as I've never had this problem before and don't want to do any damaged to the (forged) heads removing it. 

The head is already damaged for it to rust in the first place.

I will ignore that question as I'm convinced it's a dive.........

Must be cheap copies ,what was the name of that Looky,Looky man?

Try a little brass wire brush and keep'em dry after use, are you using covers?

Here is an aerial photo of the 14th Hole at the PGA course, Belfry. This is the one that apparently can be driven by cutting the corner, but only by high handicappers as normal golfers would play safe.

The hole is apprently 307 yards long.

I can't wait for the videos that will be coming from this event/hole!

Who's taking a video camera?

Russ

I fully expect to take this on with my superior length.

I did not say I would reach it, Paul, and for the life of me I cannot think what else you could have been referring to.

Quite a simple hole really for a higher handicapper, a little wood to the fat part of the fairway and then a mid iron to the green.  However, what I normally do is to land it in the bunker so as not to dishearten the guys I'm playing with....

They are Srixons and the name of the looky looky man was Golfsmith.  I'd heard they were a bit 'fly by night' but they looked reputable at the time....  Yes I use covers, the zip up ones, not the neoprene.  I think I've not dried/cleaned them properly before covering them and putting them back in the bag and they've festered in the boot of the car. 

There's your answer there Chris the boot of the car . With the cold weather condensation has occurred especially with the covers on. I experienced the same problem with my Miura's I was gutted when I saw them but a lesson learnt. Take the covers off if you have the intent of leaving them in the boot my bag stays in the boot I don't use covers on my Marus and they a have been fine.

The ultrasonic is fab at cleaning dirt from the grooves an refreshing your grips,

make no 14 the closest to the pin hole lol.

Dunno if i will go for that like, probs hit a rescue/3 wood to leave a wedge to the green

Dave - Thanks.  Only seems to have affected the two clubs though. 

Steve - Coward!  I always go over the bunker with the direction of the wind dictating how much I take.  Only hit the bunker twice and hit a fade both times.  Problem is if you don't take enough or pull it you're in the trees on the left....

I'll se how it looks on the day - If i am feeling confident I might have a whack.

All this talk of how far people hit a golf ball is getting really boring !!!!!!!!!!!

Just because you put your first out of bounds at Conwy.........

Its not me Martin - its these lot trying to wind me up.

Well I'm not exactly going to wind myself up am I now Paul??????

Yeah I know that man - That was just the best whitted comment I could come up with, and it sort of makes sense, a little

My dad's bigger than your dad and I'm gonna tell my brother and he'll beat you up.........

that was a very sobre responce Paul, not what I expected.

My Brother is all skin and bones and My Dad i smaller than me so I'm f**ked

"...built like a brick sh*t house"

That must be what the smell is then

Anyhow, back on topic.  Just so everyone knows, I am keeping an eye on handicaps to see if there are any significant changes between applying to join the comp and the day of the game.  Any significant moves will be investigated thoroughly..........

Just about Sunday's game, can't get the Belfry as we left it too late.  Where do you fancy and what time?  I'm thinking Hilltop at around 10:30 - 11:00

1st tee-off on the PGA was 12:40, Derby was 12:50.  Too late for me as I need to be done for 4:00 when the little lady is done wedding dress shopping. 

Only when it's really wet or if it's frozen. 

You'll play with who you're told.  If you don't stop complaining I'll put Govan and Santorini in your group too. 

I don't think Stu and Wayne deserve it after having to put up with him in the Algarve for a week!

I am glad that I am young, or Stuart would not want to have me as a partner.

You know how I think about this game, Stuart and it does not involve hours and hours of lessons, just a few basics that are the most important.

John we might have to set up a clinic from 7:30 am

I would have to stay overnight to get there for that time in the morning.

When you see guys like Chris, Paul and Stephen with pretty sound swings and natural power struggling off high handicaps it is our duty to set them on the right path to being able to score to their potential. I know that we can do it.

My pleasure comes from seeing good golf shots.

Perhaps John we should start Thursday evening. lol.

"When you see guys like Chris, Paul and Stephen with pretty sound swings and natural power struggling off high handicaps it is our duty to set them on the right path to being able to score to their potential. I know that we can do it.

My pleasure comes from seeing good golf shots."

How very kind of you John.

Just 8 to pay now, with four of those already having contacted me telling me when they intend to pay. 

I have asked darren if this comp is going to be included in the OOM, given the strong uptake, spread of abilities, attendance of a Golfshake officianado and nature of the comp being in line with the other OOM events last year.  We have discussed via PM and I await his final decision. 

I'm not forcing it into open forum.  I have been asked the question several times already and I'm just making people aware that I have asked Darren, it is being considered and I will let them know the answer when I have one. 

"minnie me's"

That's Mini-me, as in 'smaller version of me".  He's not a female Disney mouse!  Get an education, learn to spell.  If you're really struggling, "the other munter" or "dingle" is also acceptable

I've received confirmation from that public course in Sutton Coldfield (otherwise known as The Belfry) that we will NOT be allowed any additional tee times.  I tried, but I failed.  Sorry to those on the waiting list.  I suggest some underhand activity to stop the 8 players still to pay from getting the funds to me or getting those travelling to the Algarve detained by Portugese police......

If you are one of the 8 still to pay, you have 10 days or there will be some happy people on the waitlist.......

I agree, Wayne, they have had plenty of time to pay the money.

To be fair, four of the eight have contacted me to tell me when they will pay (pay day, etc).  As long as they pay when they promised to, not a problem.  As for the other four......

Hitting my driver better again now! Did what Dave Ley said, and started hitting it hard again and its alot better.

having just been put into consultation with my job, this one of few things that are exciting at the minute now...

Well, we've had our first casualty.  Mark Sobey has been told by the missus he's not allowed to play.  Not under the thumb, but she booked them a weekend away and unfortunately it was for the same weekend!  So the first reserve on the waiting list was offered his place, he accepted and paid immediatley.  Stuart Laws is a happy man! 

There are now just six people left to pay, and three of those have already committed to pay before the deadline.  For the other three, Dean Harris, Steve Johnson and Gary Cope are hoping that you don't pay up.  For the other three, Steve Chapman, David Casey and Chris Salter are standing by if you break your promise.  For the other five still on the waiting list, there's always a chance that Santo and Marshall Snr fall foul of the local constabulary in the Algarve or one of the stand-bys now has a trip to Ikea planned, so I will keep you informed. 

Just five days left to pay up if you haven't already.......

So the deadline has passed. Has anyone dropped out, or even been kicked out? Has anyone on the waiting list been fortunate enough to get a spot? Time will tell....... 

Or maybe you can tell us??

Where's the fun in that?  I'm waiting to see if the promised transfer of funds made on Friday clears or not.  If someone has failed to pay on that day as promised, the friend he was also paying on behalf of will not be impressed.......

Hardly Stuart.  Played rubbish for the first three rounds but handled the pressure in the comps - didn't play near handicap in any of them apart from the first.  However quite pleased with 14 point improvement at Gramacho and Silves.

And who one a brand new set of Golf clubs? 

Right, there is ONE person left to pay.  That person was on the wait-list so they have until Friday this week to pay, which they have assured me they will.  Unless there are any more drop-outs, there are no spots available.  I apologise to the 11 people still on the wait-list - I tried to get extra tee times but I couldn't.  I will keep hold of the wait-list and if there are any more casulalties I will contact you in order. 

I'll issue final groups and tee times later this week and post them on the comp message board.  I'll also post the details of what to do on arrival, prizes, etc.  If anyone has any questions, drop me a line or post on the comp message board. 

Given the level of interest, if all goes well on the day I will do the same thing for the same time next year. 

I must say, Chris, that you have organised this day very very well. I am quite sure that we are all going to enjoy it no matter how we play.

As long as you recover in time John.  May even allow you a couple of extra shots due to your long lay off if the others players agree.  Although I'm sure that there are a few on the wait-list hoing your recovery is not quite quick enough!

If I can have a buggy then I will definitely be able to make it. Quite sure that I could  not walk 18 holes at the moment.

Me and John can play as a hybrid golfer - I'll play all shots until 120 yds in, He takes over from there and we take turns putting.

that ok with you chris?

Chris,

As I've said somewhere before, I'll accept whatever handicap John suggests for the day.

John.

Dave Ley has made that offer too.  With Dave's long game and John's short game, there is no way on the face of gods green earth I am letting those two play together in a texas scramble!

I'm waiting for confirmation on prices for buggies and caddies, should be a PM coming out later today. 

Chris,

Don't forget about to ask about ball retrievers!!

John.

Available in all good pro shops John (and some rubbish ones as well!), or you can hire mine at a very reasonable rate!

mine cost £1.12

90% off in boots or something lol

As long as he can swim, as I hear Chris likes the lakes.

I think it's an absolute waste that the designer has had the forethought to put these things there and for them not to get used.

Paul,

I know one thing that Chris struggles to put a ball in........the hole!!

John.

I don't struggle John.  Greens are made to be putted on so I'm only using them for what they are designed.  Admittedly, I may over use them......

The comp homepage has been updated to inlcude details of the prizes.  Have a look and see what you could win. 

http://www.golfshake.com/competition/competitionView.php?ID=4411

Final groups for the day. 

Group 1
Chris Perry
Dave Ley
John Pettitt
Neil Beech

Group 2
John Flood
Martin Millichip
Phillip Newton
Wayne Santorini

Group 3
James Marshall
Jon Williams
Kevin Swain
Rob Camplisson

Group 4
Darren Millichip
Darren Ramowski
David Marshall
Paul Williams

Group 5
Stuart Laws
James Illsley
Lee Miller
Dean Harris

Group 6
Alan Davison
Kevin Shearsby
Paul Hindmarsh
Stephen Falcus

Group 7
Kevin Hewitt
Paul Heath
Tim Hawkins
Timothy Buffham

Group 8
Chris Brannon
Dale Unwinn
Ian Prince
Stuart Govan

Less than two weeks to go!  Here's the weather forecast: -

http://www.metcheck.com/V40/UK/FREE/14days.asp

Working fine for me.  If you can't get it to work, try putting this postcode in -> B76 9PR

It worked for me?

Bet I know which way the wind will be blowing Paul.  Right in our faces!  Hopefully it will have died down a bit as the later groups go through!

Doesn't matter which direction it will be blowing, it always changes direction to blow into your face when you're on the 8th tee. 

I know for deffo which way the wind will be blowing......out of the arse of the guy stood on the tee!!!

Got a blast of hot air once from the 8th tee as we were walking up t the 7th green once.  That and having to dodge the dummies and clubs...

Do you have to check the card for local rules to see if teddies and dummies thrown from prams are classed as movable or immovable obstructions?

Martin,

SSSSHHHH I'm trying to type!!

Best of it was, he had the nerve to say it was my fault for thinning through because I should have stopped and waited and not his for talking in my swing, but it was my fault for talking in his swing and not his for failing to stop and wait!� �

For any of you who want drive down the night before, the link below should take you to the hotel I suggest is your best option. 

http://www.hiexpress.co.uk/h/d/ex/925/en/hd/bhxcb?crUrl=/h/d/ex/925/en/mapsearchresults&rpb=hotel&_requestid=701
378

It's 1 minute from M6 Junction 5, it'll take about 10 minutes to The Belfry and jumping on the motorway is your best option. I've checked and there are rooms available on 14th March and it's £40 for a room with two single beds or one double, including breakfast. Car parking is free and there's a Harvester type pub immediately next door that does decent food at a reasonable price. A taxi into the centre of Birmingham will be around £10.

I have no affiliation with the hotel and I've never stayed there, but I can recommend the pub next door, the Fort Jester. 

Thanks for the info Chris just a tad late for a few of us we are booked in to a travelodge.

will you be about Sat evening??

Sorry mate, never occurred to me as I live so close until I spoke to Santo and he mentioned it   Which Travellodge you staying at and is it cheaper than the one I've mentioned?

I'll be about Sat if you fancy a jar. 

Sutton coalfield Chris its £6 more no brekkie,JP,kev,Santo,me,DM & Master Marshall .I think the idea is to meet at the belfry 5ish hit the range for a bit book in have a meal and a beer somewhere,more the merrier.

It would have been cheaper with three sharing but nobody wanted Santo,guess who got the short straw!

Is there an option to cancel?  You're going to be a taxi ride from Sutton Coldfield centre anyway (it's about 1.5 miles out) but it will be closer than Birmingham.  Sutton Coldfield on a Saturday night will be, erm, entertaining.  Whoever is sharing with Marshall Jnr may need earplugs as the girls there don't take no for an answer.  Santo will be safe though because while their standards are low they do still have some.....

Depends wether DM and Kev paid cancellation insurance of a £1, I on the other hand have not actually booked in was about to today.

It's totally down to you guys anyway.  I only recommended the one I did because it's cheap, easy to get to, convenient for the Belfry and has a pub that does decent food next door.  I can't comment about the one you are all booked into as, whilst I know where it is I don't know anything about that area. 

Chris we have all moved to your recommendation, cheers.

see you there Paul.

Oh god.  Don't blame me if it's proper ropey!  At least you'll be able to get ratted in the pub next door if it's really bad!

I'll send out some details on how to get to the course from all directions and from your hotel via PM later this week. 

I'm glad paul you two munters need somebody to up your image.lol.Looking forward to it bud.

Chris ,me half ratted you know only to well I'm an athelete.I will retire at 9:30 and be in the gym at 7am.

Anyone eles up for Saturday night? Tim?

Guys,

I've just had an email from the Belfry offering rooms for £33.33 per person. The only catch is that you can only book between 5pm & 8pm on 5th March?? I think if you stay at the Belfry you get free entry into the BelAir Nightclub & from past experiences on a Saturday night there are a few sights to be seen

The brochure is here

John.

A night out in the Bellend Club........Brings back memories.

some i'd rather forget about as well

I wont be taking JP there anyway......Not with those moves(mr Crouch), and with his come back form he may get a birdie!!

 Do share John......

no way, those secrets are locked away forever........................

I got the same one through.  Attached below. 

 >>  3 hours to book

>> 333 rooms to sell

>> £33.33 per person

Be ready to book online or by 'phone between 5pm and 8pm

Terms and conditions:
Offer is based on two people sharing a standard twin/double room, subject to availability and on new Leisure Break bookings only. Booking period is between 5pm and 8pm Thursday 5th March 2009 and is valid for overnight stays up to and including 30th April 2009. Full pre-payment is required at the time of booking and is non-refundable and non-transferable. Belfry terms and conditions apply.

Don't worry John you won't be the first to have gone UGLY!!!!

You gonna surprise us by developing some charisma before the event?

I knew you were going to buy it after Sunday Wayne.  How much did you knock the pro down by?

I'm suprised he didn't consult his club builder,tut,tut.

I'm looking forward to this event

I will surprise some people with my secret weapon

Wayne, your secret is safe with me

Believe me when you see it your jaw will hit the ground & you'll gasp in shock & won't believe your eyes

Glad I'm not sharing a room with him then.....

Chris,

He's going to show it off on the 1st tee as well

Another one bites the dust.  Goodbye James Illsley, hello Gary Cope. 

Chris,

In that case do not stand behind the 18th if Gary is in a greenside bunker & also make sure your car is parked well away from the 18th!!

5-4 fav  Mr Falcus, evens Millichip + Hewitt,Paul and Chris 50-1, Floddy 5-1 Me and Marshall 10-1, Santo fell in the paddock.lol.

I've seen Williams under pressure, he's got no chance!  My money is on Martin M or Dave L, but I'm tempted with a cheeky each way bet on John P to get a place.....

Thats not a bad place bet wiyh JP but i forgot he may be coaching you I will have to slash your odds!

Very diplomatic Stuart,2North 2 South.

We'll have a sweepstake on the day.  Quid in the pot, draw a name, person who draws the last placed player gets the pot.  If you daw your own name you have to re-draw though to prevent reverse banditry!  At least there'll be some good coming out of a last place finish then!

May do it as one of those secret ones where you pick a number at random so you don't know whose name you have until after the comp.  Bit like naming the teddy at the local village fete.  How twee.....

Is that when I open my bottle of fizzy coca cola and decide to eat my lunch !!!!! Am playing down my chances at this point just starting to try and get some sort of ball striking back after the weather layoff.

I can assure everyone that changes in handicap from entry to event are being watched VERY closely and any significant changes upwards will be questioned. 

Kev ,I'm jealous havn't been there for a while give my regards to Michelle,wink.Save some of your unothadox crazy golf shots for the belfry even though there's no windmills or clowns heads.We might get some feedback on the greens when Millichamp has a sneaky round there next week,

Mr Millichip is going for a sighter is he?  Ooooo, the sneaky bugger!  I won't be playing there at all between now and the comp....

Interesting to see I appear to be an outsider, have this habit of grinding out scores in comps (although I like to think that the 15 pointer at Hollins Hall was an aboration), Stuart said I would in Portugal after two 115ish rounds and I didn't dissapoint him.

My money is on Kev H - fortunately he's in my group and I seem to be developing a very loud and sudden cough.... 

your nose is growing Mr Perry............

Since putting their name down for the comp, there are 4 players who have an extra shot due to handicap increases.  I'm not going to name and shame Messers Santorini, Govan, Marshall Snr and Williams, but just remember that I am watching.

Oh bugger, I've gone and named them now.........

Just like to say that I haven't put my cards in from Portugal as it would have put my handicap up by 0.6, which meant I would have an extra shot at the last comp and come 3rd.  So they are staying off and I'm proud of my my sub 20 hcap.  

I'm not accusing anybody of anything, so if somebody from the Oldbury area is getting twitchy they must have a guilty conscience.  And I might point out that I beat that same person 4 & 2 on the round they said they sucessfully chased, even without the two strokes I'm supposed to get off them......

And yes I am counting properly Mr Govan, you were off 14.4 when you enrolled.....

"Tomorrow will sort the men from the boys."

Managed to get some time off school then have we?

Chris,

I'm assuming that I'm still able to play off my club handicap (which isn't a million miles from the GS). I think I can honestly say that most people on here will back me up & confirm I'm no bandit.

Kev H, thanks for the vote of confidence. Win or lose I'm looking forward to the company & banter & seeing people's faces when Santo unveils his weapon

John.

What's all this about being a sneaky bugger ? What and where am I supposed to be playing and getting a sighter on the greens ?

Would love to know.

The number of people trying to get a couple of extra shots for this comp is amazing!  I'll be getting my club handicap after this weekend's rounds.  If they give me a handicap of 26 will everybody let me play off that?

You gonna let me have an extra six shots around the PGA then?

whatever the lowest of the two H/C's is you should play off.

My club HC is very harsh but i cant do anything about it.

Phillip,

The groups are in this post, just scroll up & you should see them. Actually your in the same group as me so it's approx 11:15ish.

John.

First group goes off at 11:20.  Tee times are every 10 minutes thereafter. 

Odds have moved on Kev to 5-4 ok

  Well done Kev, good round.  And well done for being honest too.  Unlike some mexicans......

Busy up until lunchtime, will do it then. 

Tim H can't make this Friday so if anyone fancies a round on the PGA on Friday 13th March, tee off at 12:00, there is on space left.  First come first served. 

Given that we're off full handicaps Kev, you may want to re think........

Guys,

i have included 2 photo's of the par 3 8th at the PGA (hover over the 1st to see the 2nd photo. One shows where you don't want your tee shot to end up & the other shows where you WOULD like your tee shot to end up. Can you recognise anyone??

Oh & if your wondering the ladies tee is about 20yds to the right of the 1st photo!!! 

You forgot to menton the female Scottish caddy who felt it was appropriate to start talking loudly as I launched into my backswing whilst stood directly behind me 

tut tut, Chris. That 8th hole & people talking during back swings is becoming quite a problem.

Maybe on the 15th we'll have to have marshall with signs saying "QUIET" when people are about to tee off!!

To be honest Chris I think she did it on purpose cos you hit her hubby up the arse with a Bridgstone on the 2nd

I could handle it once and got it cleared out of my head for the next hole (hence the decent tee shot).  But then she sneaked up behind me and fired up the electric trolley in my back swing for my second.  I admit it got me wound up when she did it a second time and it took me a few holes to get myself sorted. 

And can I just point out that Messers Flood and Williams were both heard muttering on several occaisions "Will you f@~#ing shut up!" when she did it to them as well!

I don't think it was me that you heard muttering that. I'm use to banter during my swing, every saturday I tee off with about 20 guys all watching & shouting banter.

Here's the weather forecast.  Bracing.

http://www.metcheck.com/V40/UK/FREE/7days.asp

Nice round of golf at La Mer Kevin. that is one tough track.

The 8th green looks awful, Ithought this was supposed to be a good course.

John - if you can see the atate of the green in that picture I'll have done to my eyes whatever you've had done!  It's miles in the distance past the stream, the pond and the vicious bunkers - all of which, I may add, I've visited!

Tim, there is a picture of a green with a flag in it and two balls on it and the surface looks terrible. The Alt text says it is the 8th Green PGA.

I know one of the photos was taken on the 8th tee John (the one with the bloke in orange on it) but I can't see the other.  I can assure you the greens are pretty good. 

Apologies John, just found the second picture.  Must admit it does look as rough as a badgers *rse, but let me assure they aren't.

Directions to The Belfry posted on the comp message board

http://www.golfshake.com/competition/competitionView.php?ID=4411&type=board

John,

The picture doesn't do the greens justice. My ball was the one on the green & I'm ashamed to say I 3 putted!! Only because the greens were fast & the pin was placed on a little plateau & my par putt lipped out

Chris, who is that person in the orange

John.

I bet Wayne's weapon is bigger than yours

Paul,

I didn't go on the 1st March? All will be revealed next Sunday.??

That's what you tell all the boys Stu.....

Got nothing to do with Conwy

If only you knew!!!

I bet you £10 you don't guess correct

I do know but not telling !!!!

Martin,

Have you been included in on the surprise as your in our 4 ball???

Martin,

In the old panto saying "Oh no you don't!!!"

John.

Look at the forecast for Sunday!!!  Can't you tell that Darren didn't organise this one!!!

http://www.metcheck.com/V40/UK/FREE/dayforecast.asp?day=3&zipcode=B76

You must be very pleased that you have had such wonderful support for this competition with people fighting for places.

I just hope everyone enjoys it John.  It's been much more popular than I could have imagined - I only originally booked for 20 players!

Considering we have people playing with broken wrists and bad backs, and travelling from as far afield as Newcastle and the south coast it appears that people are really looking forward to it.  There are still 14 people on the waiting list but unfortunately I just couldn't get any more tee times - a shame really. 

Forecast is for light rain Saturday from around noon until around 9pm.  Should set the course up just right. 

If we do it annually, I'll try to do it last Sunday in March so it's the day that the clocks go forward - it'll truly be the start of the season then. 

I haven't got a new weapon big or small.  I can't hit the ball much more than 200 yards.  It been taking me more than 1 shot to get out of bunkers recently and my putter feels like a stick with a breeze block on the end at the moment but I am really looking forward to Sunday and if the weather is as good as the forecast it should be a great day. 

Oh yes I do !!!! Wayne will confirm to that effect

Well I played the course today.  It's in pretty good nick.  The greens are running true and are breaking nicely, although they're not as quick as I have seen them.  17th and 18th greens are a little damp (always are) but not enough to effect play.  It was fairly windy (about 15 mph) and surprise surprise blowing into my face on the par 3 8th.  I took a driver (honestly, a driver on an 187 yard par 3!) and was pin high but in the bunker to the right. 

If the wind drops but it stays as warm, we're in for a good day. 

'Looking forward to this...will be good to put some more faces to names. Whatever the outcome I think it's going to be a top day. Good luck everyone!

allways wanted to play here(but on the brabazon) been to watch the british masters for the last 3 years so it will be nice to have a club in my hand while i m walking round.if chris decides to make this a annual event i think he will need to book the course for the full day after the interest shown this year

Martin,

Do the words Red & Herring mean anything??

John.

OK, here's the number of shots everyone is getting on Sunday.  I've sorted it by first name so it's easier to find yourself.  You have until around 3:00pm tomorrow to complain about your or anyone elses allowance.  I will check tomorrow to see if anyone has submitted a card that makes a difference.  For the ones where the strokes doesn't line up with the Golfshake handicap, this is because I have been advised of club handicaps which are being used instead. 

The format is Name, Golfshake Hcp, Strokes Awarded

• Alan Davison, 18.3, 18
• Chris Brannon, 20.1, 20
• Chris Perry, 21.8, 22
• dale unwin, 28, 28
• Darren Millichip, 13.6, 14
• Darren Ramowski, 27.3, 27
• Dave ley, 7.2, 8
• David Marshall, 10.5, 11
• Dean Harris, 26.9, 27
• gary cope, 18, 18
• ian prince, 12, 12
• James Marshall, 18, 18
• john flood, 13.9, 15
• John Pettitt, 16.6, 17
• Jon Williams, 22.9, 23
• Kevin Hewitt, 10.1, 10
• kevin shearsby, 14, 14
• kevin swain, 15.3, 15
• lee miller, 22.7, 23
• Martin Millichip, 7.2, 7
• neil beech, 12.9, 13
• Paul Heath, 13.4, 13
• Paul Hindmarsh, 9.1, 9
• Paul Williams, 20.6, 21
• Phillip Newton, 22, 22
• rob camplisson, -1, 8
• stephen falcus, 20.5, 20
• Stuart Govan, 15.5, 16
• stuart laws, 12.2, 12
• Tim Hawkins, 19.8, 20
• Timothy Buffham, 27.6, 28
• Wayne Santorini, 14.7, 15

Let the battle cries of "How many?  Bleeding bandit" commence!!!

EDIT: Updated allowances in red. 

What time are the lads who are stopping over arriving Saturday?  And what time are we meeting at the pub conviniently located next to the hotel for eve of comp food and drink?

Set in stone then, I'm off 27.

No going back now Chris, and now including of 3/4 handicaps

Chris 5ish at the Belfry  and was thinking 7:30 to 8 at the pub?

7:30 sounds good.  Me and the little lady will see you there.  I believe munter 2 is bringing his better half too. 

Yeh cool, me and Wayne might be a little late after our vigorous workout at the gym............it's not easy to stay firmly toned atheletes.

Can I have 28 please Chris?

Are you and Wayne not meeting Jim in the bar Dave?

Tim - No

If Dale wins that round would be a snip Lee at about £128.00!

can i mark Dale's card please?

already i give him birdie, birdie, par (but closest to the pin), birdie, birdie, etc...

cheap round on Lee...haha

Let's all agree to throw the game & let Dale win, we'll all split the prizes & then watch Lee's face as we'll order a double of the most expensive brandy at the Belfry.

Also who said the par 3 8th was hard?? I birdied it today & Mr Perry also birdied the nearest the pin par3 & had a stormer scoring 44 points this afternoon.

Mines a pint of Creme de Menthe shandy Lee

Some shot allowances have been updated; see my original post above, the updated ones are in red.  If the extra shot means they win a prize, they better buy me a beer!

I'll have a pint of Jack Daniels and diet coke Lee......

You did.  Available from 10:00.  Go and check in at golf reception and they will direct you to the food and drink

I'm no Bandit, my scores are my scores, I love to beable to say my H/C was 10, 2 or even 21. I post scores here in rounds that I've played but only those that I play with others (it's a varification thing - even though the last two were not played with members of Golfshake).

I don't post rounds I play at Breedon Acadamy course (Lee will confirm it's not really a proper course about 3000 Yrds and no hazzards) Personnally I was made up to have posted a round that cut me by 0.4 and to have scored 2 on the trot at under 10. I have scores under 100 twice before last year a 95 at Breedon Priory in a work comp and and 94 at Allentown Municipal.

I think you should all be worried becuase one day I'm gonna shoot a good round :-)

T

I think he was accusing me.  Fat chance.  Shouldn't you be changing nappies?

Paul,

I'll be giving you a ring about 9:30 to get my 10% discount then!!

What happened to the 24 maximum handicap that was told to be in place?

I've got bloody no chance, still enjoy it though.

I've changed my driver swing again over the past week, trying to hit a draw to eliminate hitting any bad slices, see how it goes for me....

see you all tomorrow, and John P especialy for my tips on the range!

The Belfry say players must have handicap of 24 or less on the PGA.  I only said that if you had a handicap higher than that it wasn't my fault if they didn't let you play or moved you to the Derby. 

oh, I knew i remembered reading max 24 thats all.

THE RESULTS ARE IN!!!

Thanks to everyone for coming today, I hope you all enjoyed it.  I'll write a blog for the comp in a short while but I've loaded up all the cards and the full results are now available on the comp page via the link at the bottom.  As a round-up, here's the key points: -

• 1st place - Stu Govan, 33 pts
• 2nd place - Neil Beech, 32 pts
• 3rd place - Darren Ramowski, 31 pts (countback)
• Nearest the pin - Kev Hewitt
• Secret Six - Dave Ley
• Wooden Spoon - Dale Unwin

Just TWO points separated 3rd and 14th places, showing just how tightly contested the comp was.  Well done to all, sorry to those who I couldn't get out and I may be tempted to act on the request to repat the event next year. 

http://www.golfshake.com/competition/competitionView.php?ID=4411

Good day all round mate - no bandits on this one, incredibly tight.  Lucky I couldn't replicate my back 9 on the front otherwise I would have been over 40!  Mind you, seems like everyone had trouble on the front apart from Kev H!

Photos all up on the group page - sorry I couldn't get everyone teeing off.  However, good shots of the ball flights for Chris (going to the Brabazon) and John P (going for the 18th)!

Great competition Chris thanks again for organising it and I'm sure that if you do do it again next year there will be at least as much interest if not more.  It was my first golfshake comp and yesterday evening I was regretting deciding to start off at The Belfry. 

However my fears were unfounded as in the end I found the course difficult but playable off my handicap. I only found a couple of holes on the front nine scary (2nd and 4th but not the 8th) and the pace of the greens.  I would definitely look forward to returning to the course.  Great to put some faces to the names at last.

Chris or maybe this should be directed at Darren.  Is there anyway of recording advanced stats for competition rounds which are locked?

thanks for a great day chris,well organised and a great turn out. if you do organize 1 for next year get my name down mate. cheers chris

Stu, you'd be as good at receiving an oscar as Chris is for organising a great day of golf...

Well done to everyone who played and congratulations to the winners. Even the lucky tree-bouncing ones (you didn't include a thank you to that tree in your speech though Stu).

Thanks for organising Chris.
I hope it happens again next year - well worth it.

Stu, As you've now admitted twice to recieving cash as prizes you have to give up your amatuer status & turn pro

Thanks for a great day out. Thanks to Wayne, Martin & Phillip. It was also a good day out for Santo's secret weapon, he's been a member for years & he saw parts of the course on Sunday he didn't know existed

Nearly had you Stuart

A broom handle putter with a bow in the shaft to go around his belly!

Stu, He had a caddie & he made the little guy carry his tour bag fully loaded all the way around.

Wayne, it was bugging me all day as he reminded me of someone & I've just realised who.....Charlie Drake

But buying a tour bag especially and loading it up with all the gear you can put in it (plus a couple of house bricks) is a little unfair!

Wayne, Look familiar???

John, I can't believe your old enough to remember Charlie Drake.

I would like to thank Chris and everyone else for making such a good day. Special thanks to my playing partners  Chris ,Neil and JP as always pleasure to play with JP and Chris and hope to play with Neil again in the future, sorry for my tantrums and club chucking genuinely not the norm ,just a bit of frustration.

Thanks to the gang out Saturday night ,nothing like some good food and drink and talking b@llox fo a few hours,cheers.

Competition blog now added here ->

http://www.golfshake.com/competition/competitionBlog.php?ID=4411 ;

dave it was worth the odd tantrum to watch somebody strike a ball like you did(on most of the holes.....lol)

  it was nce to put some faces to names at last.my 1st proper golf shake event apart from the winter league and enjoyed it all.

  met some new people played a new course hopefully made a couple of new friends and won a few quid....can t go wrong.

and must say mr jp is a gent ,made me feel relaxed right from the start after nearly filling my kegs being in the 1st group and teeing off in front of everyone

Your striking was pretty damn good as well Neil, and that fifty yard bunker shot for a sand saver and a birdie is what got you the money. I was really impressed with your overall play.

As you say, David was again a delight to watch, yes even when he was throwing a paddy.

Look forward to playing with you again, Neil.

many thanks john and will look forward to seeing you again

I'm sure I heard a rumour that this event would be turned into an 'official' GS Event??

I'm sure that everybody who attended last year would more than likely want to attend again this year if someone wanted to arrange it (cough cough Darren!)

Phillip,

This was last years comp, I was enquiring if anyone was going to arrange a similar one for this year!

Yes I am on the case and resurrecting.

Think this post if proof that we need to have a 'go to end' or show last 10 messages!  took 20 seconds to load and took me 10 minutes to scroll down the page, remember I don't know about the 'end key

Darren,

It's so easy, just place an 'anchor', #EOF, at the bottom of each thread & then hyperlink it at the top "GO TO END. You can do this in a normal HTML page.

Or as you say for threads that have more than say 50 posts you can apply the 'paging' method to them.

John.