2008 Season Summary
5-6th April 2008 – Major 1 Menzies Cambridge GCC
‘Leon Leaves Cambridge with Honours’
Well, I think we can all say (those of us who were fortunate to get a cabin on board HMS ACGA) that a good time was had by all. Menzies Cambridge was host to the 1st Major of the ACGA 2008 season and the start of the official captaincy of Henry Laville. Those who arrived in good time for their tee time would not have been surprised to see the motley collection of individuals in the nets, on the putting green or on the practice area honing their short game skills prior to tee off. To be honest with you, some of us should not have bothered as the weather would play a significant part.
2nd May 2008 – Major 2 The Marquess – Woburn GC
Wonderful Witter at Woburn
ACGA Major number 2 and our 15th year anniversary. Where better than what is described as a modern marvel ‘The Marquees’ course at Woburn. But would the ACGA Juggernaut rip it up?
40 players in attendance and the course Woburn has brought out some players we haven't seen at the majors for a while, David Williams, Simon Dixon, Basil Byroo and Damion Queva, always good to see you boys. Now before you get excited none of the above would have a part to play in the shake up.
6th June 2008 – Major 3 Canons Brook GC
He's Back to Back that's Dean Witter
Our third major sees us return to Canons Brook Golf Club. Where even some of the older members are having trouble recalling playing this one. Some might put the loss of memory down to the fact that it beat them up so bad last time; they have tried to erase it from their minds. On arriving a few of the members where visible shaking.
Must give a shout out to the members making their first appearance this year. Del Manderson, Jacqui Harbor , Ray Johnson, Ray Maginley and Sean Brady it’s always good to see you boys and Girl. We also have 3 guests, 2 of which are making their 2nd appearance this year and are looking to become members of the ACGA. Franklyn John and Philip Amuaku the committee are watching you.
11th July 2008 – Major 4 Wildwood GC
Stuart finally wins with a superb display of golf
Once again after some heavy rain in the preceding days prior to the Wildwood Major we were blessed that the showers dodged this part of Surrey/Sussex border and kept us dry for the whole day.
The 3 loops of 9 holes at Wildwood provided a good test for those patience enough to think their way around the course, where many holes where blind and not particularly long. Certain members who had had a seek preview of the course a week or so before who were expected to feature heavily in the final result, proved this exercise was a complete waste of time.
Only 5 players scored 18 points or more in the morning 9 holes. Worthy of a particular mention was Jacqui Habor who with 19 points was seen enjoying complimentary lunchtime drinks courtesy of Messer O’Garro and Co. Also enjoying their lunch were Murray (22), Thomas A (18) Austrie (20) and newcomer Philip Amuaku (18).
8th August 2008 – Major 5 Donnington Grove GCC
Tennis" Game, Set and Match
Our 5th major takes us down the M4 corridor to a new venue for the ACGA. Donnington Grove Country Club is where we will find out who has the complete game to take on the 27 holes that lay in waiting. On arrival we are welcomed into the brand new club house and pro shop.
For the morning 9 holes if you were looking to ease yourself into the round then you had better think again. We are off the 10th tee, 567 yards par 5, stroke index 1. Some light rain to make the green a little more receptive but nothing to worry Tennis Russell (19) Ray Maginley (20) Damian Queva (20) In my group and swinging the club very nicely Steve Garner (20) but leading the way and two points clear in the morning, our boy from Bristol Brian Levy (22)
13-14th Sept 2008 – Major 6 Marriot Tudor Park GCC
MARRIOT REWARDS STUART WITH 2nd 2008 MAJOR
Clearly all the planets must have been in alignment, and those who had religious beliefs prayed to their God the night before. It can be the only explanation for the magnificent weather we experienced over the weekend, of what is considered to be the highlight of the ACGA annual playing calendar.
“And with the parting of the clouds, the earth’s eternal heater did shine its ambient rays on the righteous, the not so righteous and even our Captain”. Welcome to the Marriot Tudor Park.
As is customary with the Marriot chain, the facilities were first class both on and off course. The food was good, the fitness centre was first class and after dinner both the card and domino schools where in full swing.
10th Oct 2008 – Major 7 Brookmans Park GC