The annual Northern Golf Tour took place between September 9-13. The team consisted of Peter Crowcroft, Michael Estorick, Bryan Pickup, Stewart Wright, David Tidmarsh, Lance Taylor, Nick Ray, John Sharp, Alan Ewart & Chris Greet.
We arrived in Hollinwell, which must be one of the prettiest clubhouse settings anywhere. We had a very a warm welcome from Richard Tennant and his team. There was a cool north west wind but the sun was shining. Sadly, the strong Holinwell (Nottinghamshire) GC team beat XL 3 & 2.
Having faced a monsoon driving up to Yorkshire in the previous year, it was great this year to be able to drive up in sunshine. We checked into The Black Horse pub in Brighouse where the owners, Andrew & Jane, always look after us so well. The following morning we met Chris Farrell and his hand-picked team of XL North golfers at Moortown GC. The course was in great condition having just hosted an open event. Local knowledge played its part and XL North beat XLGS 3 & 2. The Captain presented the recently found One Eyed Riley trophy to Chris Farrell.
The next day we headed to Huddersfield where we played Chris Farrell’s MCC Team at Fixby GC. As we drove in, the course which had been closed due to heavy rain, was reopened with some encouragement from Chris! If you haven’t played Fixby, it’s a hilly course and buggies are recommended for older athletes! After the match, we enjoyed a very nice dinner in the club house. Again, MCC had a large number of Fixby members and they were too good for XLGS beating us 3 & 2. The Captain presented the Don Brennan trophy to Chris Farrell.
I’d like to extend huge thanks to Chris Farrell whose help in organising the two fixtures is invaluable. His enthusiasm for the tour is great and it’s difficult to thank him enough for all he does in organising the matches and making us feel so welcome at both Clubs.
On the Thursday we had an informal game with members at Alwoodley, an Alister Mackenzie course of Augusta fame. As Captain, I have been privileged to play a large number of fixtures this year. This is possibly the best course I have played. It was certainly in the best condition of any course. We are very lucky to have an ongoing invitation from Neil Stoddard who happens to be the Club Captain this year.
I would like to thank Peter Crowcroft for running another great tour this year.
Chris Greet, Captain
