Good Friday 2007 was the inaugural CGS event at “The Lickeys” a tradition that we have continued to hold on to. A week of persistent rain rendered “The Lickeys” unplayable. Following discussion it was agreed we would need to relocate. At the late hour of 16:30 on Thursday our good friends at Hatchford Brook came to our rescue. We now had very little time to get on the phone and let the field know that the time and venue had changed. Sure enough 07:45 and (21?) players duly arrived for the event ready to take on the challenging conditions. The Fairways were very soft, trolleys banned and there was a light drizzle coming down.

Once again minds were focused on putting in a good performance and claiming a place on the CGS Team for the 3 Way Match in May. The groups set off and made the best of the conditions in front of them. There was the usual banter and players quickly got to grips with the course. It was not long before the drizzle abated and whilst overcast it was reasonably mild.

For the first time we played Medal and with every shot counting this was going to be a day to dig deep. The late change of tee time and venue meant we were unable to confirm the Longest Drive and Nearest the Pin Holes. Word was sent back through the groups with all but one group getting the information. The 17th was chosen for Nearest the Pin a challenging 2 layer green. Lloyd “Bugsy” Thomas was the man who parked his 5 iron within 12 feet and claimed the prize. Longest Drive was the 18th and two time “Fix Up” Winner Roan McLeod was once again victorious with one of his trademark screamers.

The weather which had eased off decided that the time had come to make things tougher and cold light persistent rain ensued. Medal play is a notoriously unforgiving format that demands focus. Inevitably there were some early casualties who were left with mountains to climb or should that be rivers to cross? The 19th was a welcome sight for many and while the scores were being calculated lunch was being consumed to refuel tired bodies and minds.

In 3rd place with a creditable score of net 67 1 under was Junior “Earl of Warwick” Harris. Coming in 2nd on count back with a net 64 4 under was Carl Douglas. Claiming his 2nd CGS win with a net 64 was Lloyd “Bugsy” Thomas. Congratulations to Bugsy and Carl who have both secured their berth for the 3 Way Match between London (ACGA), Bristol (Titans) and Midlands (CGS). There are now 6 players in the team Don Bramble, Vassel Brown, Roan McLeod, Ken Brown, Lloyd Thomas and Carl Douglas. Two more will secure their place on Saturday 17th April at the “Shropshire” with the final Four coming from the Order of Merit and the two highly prized Captains Picks.

Event Result: