Another year gone with the annual trip to what some call God’s own country (others a bunch of cussed old moaners!!) successfully completed.
We returned undefeated with wins against Hollinwell (2.5 – 1.5) and the XLGS North (4 – 0) and a draw with the MCC (2 – 2). The latter was a very close run thing with all matches going to the wire. In one match the opposition were offered a half on the 18th tee. They declined, mumbling something about Yorkshire grit and promptly lost the hole and match. Obviously, their God was not watching!
A special mention to our man ‘oop north’, Chris Farrell. Although duel-hatted with the the MCC he is a thoroughly good bloke without whom there would be no tour. His ability to get us the most amazingly cheap deals at each club would shame even the meanest Scot!! Long may he remain our point of contact.
We had 2 new tourists in John Sharp and Lance Taylor. One a magnificent golfer, the other a knowledgeable talker!! Both complemented the party, especially John who showed that we do have some golfers among us. Good to see Bryan Pickup ‘oop north’ again and thank him for coming to Alwoodly as a last minute replacement for John Sharp (get well soon!). I think Bryan did not feel this was too much of a hardship.
The off course arrangements followed the usual pattern with the exception of giving the renowned Akbar curry house a miss. Thankfully one of our North XLGS golfers (a medical man) gave us a warning shot so we switched venues. The Black Horse bar takings were not so high this year which reflected in our improved results and they did ask after our A squad drinkers who they sadly missed.
On the last day 3 of us went to play at Alwoodly, just up the road from Moortown, with the aim of trying to extend the future tours to a 4th match at that venue. It certainly is a splendid course and very well presented. The club house is a very classy affair with the whiff of old money and manners. We have left the matter with our contact who is optimistic about meeting our request.
On a final note I can report that I have stood down after 5 year as organiser and handed over to our next Captain Pete Crowcroft. As he has toured with me every year the change should be seamless. Can I thank in print this years tourists for their very thoughtful gift to me. I am not sure whether it was in thanks or in relief that I am standing down!
Attached are photos of the XLGX N vs S squads and Chris Farrell and Doug Adams with the trophy at Moortown. Also Chris again with Pete Crowcroft and the MCC trophy at Fixby.
David Lancaster, Match Manager (no more)
(PS – Next year we hope the tour will be 12 – 15 September so get your names down on the website early when the new fixtures are published in the new year)
