An intrepid group of 9 would-be golfers gathered at this idyllic 9 hole Links setting in the heart of West Suffolk, to contest the Philanderers version of The Claret Jug which had spent the year nestled in the Pearson Jnr trophy cabinet (and still does as he forgot to bring it on the day!).
The hottest day of the year, under clear blue skies, welcomed the troops. Will H questioning the promised offer of sandwiches and soup by bringing his own packed lunch and bemoaning the fact that the pro-shop did not sell any shorts, let alone in his size or style. Fully-fed and lathered in sun cream we set off to take on the pristine fairways and greens but alas they were to be mostly unused, the knee-high rough attracting numerous balls. Dodson, Cassells, and Fullerton won the toss and elected to bat first, followed by Pearson, Dillon and Hammond, with the redoubtable threesome of Clarke, Pimblett and Burnett bringing much needed class, but not speed, to the occasion. The course was in excellent condition and after 3 hrs of enjoyable banter, and some evidence of excellent golf, we reconvened to the sun-drenched terrace of the clubhouse, or at least 2 groups did, the last trio reported to be still somewhere in out in the Serengeti, 3 wildebeests seeking the sanctuary of the nearest waterhole. Tea and cakes (Chocolate, Victoria sponge and lemon drizzle) awaited us as the score masters scrutinized the cards before we gathered for the presentation ceremony in front of the gathering crowd of a local passer-by and The Rt Hon Smithington-Smyth’s cocker-spaniel. Nearest the pin was won by the 2nd shot of the day from Alex Fullerton on the signature 5th (the late great Peter Alliss said it was his favourite par 3 in golf) and whilst your correspondent managed to win the overall trophy by one point from Alex F, the most keenly fought trophy of the day was the longest drive on the 460 yard par 4 8th. Will H was longest on the first 9 holes, but his lead was just beaten by Alex F with his effortless and languid swing taking it by 2 yards. Waiting on the 8th fairway Alex watched Will drive first, a soaring effort which would have taken the prize if it hadn’t just rolled into the right hand rough before Ed P, with a generous bounce from the left hand semi rough, took the lead by 5 yards. Three amazing drives but Jack D still to come, surely not!! Indeed, surely not!! Well done Ed.
Fantastic day enjoyed by all at a lovely course under cloudless skies. We look forward to meeting again in August 2024.
Ed Dodson
Relaxing after a hard days golfing
The Serengeti