April 15th 2005

The 81^st meeting of TIGS, and the second of our 17^th season, was held at John O’Gaunt Golf Club on Friday 15^th April. A fine drizzle of rain remained throughout most of the cool day, but with little wind in the air, conditions were not too harsh.

 We had 22 members and 6 guests in attendance.

 The course, not overly long, was certainly testing – the wet, lush rough particularly so. The results reflected this; however this did not stop Dave Nelson winning the LIONEL RAMUS TROPHY with a highly commendable 33 points.

 Then we had a most unusual, in fact unique, situation. We had four players right behind Dave, all with 32 points. Nevertheless, Simon Leary came 2^nd with a better back 6 than Phil Bowers (3^rd), who had a better back 9 than Michael Heath (4^th), who had a better back 9 than Fred Gregg (5^th).

 Dave has his handicap reduced from 11 to 8. Simon’s handicap is reduced from 16 to 14.

 Winning visitor was Ron Austin’s guest Bruce Little with 29 points beating Michael Heath’s guest, Doug Smith by 1 point. Bruce’s handicap is reduced from 10 to 8, Doug’s from 12 to 10.

 The yellow ball prize went to Messrs Gregg, Bowers, Sumner and Linwood with 37 points.

 Nearest the pin prizes were won by Gary Hardy (4^th hole) and Mike Atkinson (16^th hole). The longest drive competition was won by Mike Linwood (again!) on the 9^th hole.

 The Secretary reported that Ian Tinling had recently undergone a shoulder operation, and that due to ill health Stuart Tilling was unlikely to play golf again on a regular basis. The Society wishes them both well.

 The next TIGS gathering is for the Away Days trip to Southport on May 9^th, 10^th and 11^th.

 The next regular TIGS event is at Rye Hill Golf Club on Friday June 10^th.