THE Seniors section at Minehead and West Somerset Golf Club started the week off with a Texas Scramble, which saw eight teams taking part in a close competition, at the end of which they were only separated by four points. 

Leading the way with 64 points were Phil Bowden, Tony Connolly and Edward Frewin, one ahead of second placed Dave Oatridge, Richard Austwick and Tim Evans who returned with a score of 65. 

One point behind in third position with 66 points were Ash Stockley, Richard Baker and Bob Dainty.

A somewhat complex Multiplier format was played on Wednesday, where the absence of wind proved something of a novelty for players trying to accurately calculate distance and make their club selection following the recent poor weather. 

Martin Hole had no such difficulty, achieving a golfer’s dream of a hole in one on the par 4 opening hole. Many congratulations to him on achieving which was his second hole in one. In time honoured tradition, Martin celebrated the event in the clubhouse which was much appreciated by everyone, though not his wallet!

With the opportunity to score well on the par threes, it was no on surprise that there was a considerable variance in the scores as some teams were able to take full advantage. The winning team with 112 points were Steve Gay, Pat Jones and Sandy Lyons. In second place with 105 points were Deano Carlin, Graham Troman and Edward Frewin, while third place was claimed by Steve Woodbury, Tony Connolly and Willie Brown who scored 88.

A biting east wind, making it feel more like Siberia than West Somerset and a flock of Curlew at the water’s edge heralded the onset of winter on Friday as the Seniors played an individual white, yellow and red Stableford. 

These challenging conditions and an extra layer of clothing meant scoring on the front nine proved very difficult for many in the event. Despite this, however, Malcolm Bruce managed to overcome such issues with aplomb, scoring an excellent 35 points, winning outright, thus registering his first trip to the podium in over two years. This was a very welcome and long overdue return to form for him. 

Steve Gay continued his fine run, particularly on the back nine, taking second place with 34 points, while Pat Jones claimed third position with 33.