Sun 23rd Aug 2015 - Breakfast and 18 at Chichester

We had a 7 am breakfast always a good start. M was already there and had paid for golf and breakfast. We has a 7:50 tee time and we were watched from the tee. Never mind: I went over the back and M got on the green so it looked like we knew what we were doing.

We were following a 2 ball that were almost always out of sight. We were followed by a 3 ball but somehow they let a couple in  a buggy past end they followed us until the rain started. We would have let them through but they were not quick enough. We both started off well and when I had a bit of a problem on the 4th and 5th M went 2 up for the first time in a while. At the end of the front 9 however it was back to all square.

The weather played a significant part today. We had been expecting thunder storms but we luckily avoided them. The weather was very hot at first but soon the wind got up and the clouds rolled in and it got cooler, I think the rain started on the 11th and it was heavy we were very wet. For some reason it made gripping the clubs particularly difficult and led to some crap shots from both of us.

After 12 we were all square and M won the 13th and 14th to go 2 up with 4 to play. 15 and 16 were drawn with 5s all round so it was 2 up with 2 to play. On the 17th Ms tee shot went right and he followed with a giant swing where the club came out of his hands and went farther than the ball. 20 feet right and the club would have been in the pond. This was enough to concede the hole after further disasters. On the final hole Ms tee shot was short and needed 3 off the tee and so it ended in a draw. This was the closest match for some time and M was hitting his irons well from the tee. Shot of the day was Ms tee shot from the 15th where it went as far as any driver.

As it happens I had forgotten the trophy so we would have been playing for the "Calgary Cloth" a present from our Canadian friend. My score is click here.

I made a mess of the 4th from the tee (right this time) .. must use a 9i next time. Also made a double mess of the 5th losing 2 in the pond. I also lost a ball on the 10th when someone shouted "fore" and I lost sight of my ball. Hey ho never mind. I messed up the long 13th but only by going over from being short it should have been a comfortable 6 not a 7. I blame the wet clubs. I think that on another day I could have saved 4 or 5 shots.

We have not played much recently and I was pleased to stick to the fairway more on the back 9. Just over a 100 again but it seemed tough. Perhaps the wettest ever..?

Storm brewing on the 3rd

Sun 9th Aug 2015 - 18 Holes at Chichester

I am afraid this one has faded from memory now. Except to say that the Geller trophy stays South.
My score is click here,

Looking back I had trouble on the 3rd and 4th with lost balls from the tee. The 4th has been giving me trouble lately. I think perhaps a 9i is the next thing to try. Apart from that it was another under 100 which is always nice.

Sun 2nd Aug 2015 - 18 Holes at Dummer with a Canadian Visitor

With M and A as caddy and special guest appearance from K on holiday visiting A. K gave us all team tee shirts and Caps as you will see we looked very smart. We had a 2 o'clock is tee time and we set off with no one behind and no one in front and thats how it stayed. The weather was perfect with sun and a slight breeze.

K went first and went left and in a organised fashion we followed (quite unusual). I am unsure of the scores for the other 2. I will wait for entries on golf shorthand. The company was good and we were able to chat and play with no pressure from other players. I did quite a hard sell on golf shorthand as I don't have many members so perhaps I will gain a few Canadian followers.

Without the exact scores its hard to say how the game was won but my impression was that I started well and K had a long streak in the middle where he either won by an odd point or managed a draw. Playing with a 3 ball seemed to have a good effect on myself and M as we managed more good shots that usual. I was pleased to finish the front and back 9 with less that 50 on each which is very rare.

more to follow...

Fri 31st July 2015 - 18 Holes at a busy Wickham Park

With M on A's birthday. We had a tee-time of 2pm but he pro shop said we had to go at 13:57. The pro shop was full of people with 2pm tee-times. No problem we let the couple who had the 2pm slot go first. We were followed by 2 male golfers. It was very slow. The weather was fine and the course was in good condition.

I went left from the tee as is usual for my 1st shot these days. M went well right. Not the best start on a par 3. The slow play always favours me as M hates it. This game was unique in respect of drawn holes, there was not one! I was pleased to set off with 5's for the 1st 4 holes. At the end of the first 9 I had one of my best scores of all time (45). The 2nd 9 was not quite as good and included a 9 on a par 4. M never got into the stride and it was time to keep the trophy again. My score is click here.

Putting was one of the best ever saving 5. I messed up 4 holes on the back 9. The 11th with a lost ball and a couple of bunkers. On the 13th I went down the right in the long grass and took 3 out. On the 16th it started well but ended with a bunker and a duff.  The 17th was spoilt with a 3 putt.

Good fun..

Nice day

Same nice day with M in the distance

Sun 12th July 2015 - 9 + 18 at Chichester

With M on a busy weekend. Met in time to have a casual par 3. The weather was light drizzle with a significant wind. But it was warm.

On the par 3 I set off well with 3/2/3 but it fell apart after I lost a ball on the 4th. We were pretty equal but as usual it had no bearing on the final outcome.

We set off on the 18 holes following a lone golfer who kept ahead easily and disappeared after 9 or so. He was following a 4 ball who also disappeared after 9. No one was behind so we had the course to ourselves.

M set off with a green from the 1st tee and made par, I went into the left bunker but managed a 4 and M was 1 up. The next 2 were just mine by 1 so I was 1 up. After this we drew several in a row until the dog-leg 7th where I had a nightmare and M didn't. It was all square. On the 8th M lost a ball with the back wind and I was still 1 up. After the 9th I was 2 up.

On the 10th M had a point but didn't need it and I was 1 up after 10. Then my good run started with 5's and 4's  up to the 16th. With a bit of bad luck my tee shot from the 17th was lost due to the wind and M took one back. We ended with a win for me by a few holes, so the trophy stays South and my handicap comes down by another 1 to 25. Great fun! My score is click here.

My putting was 1 under but this included 4, 3 putts so it could have been better. I ended up with 12 proper scores including 3 pars. I only messed up 1 hole (the 10th due to going in the trees on my 2nd shot). I lost 2 balls one on the 4th and 17th from the tee. Both could have been avoided. I was disappointed with the impossible ball from the tee on the 5th where I risked the lake and got a bad bounce left into the ditch. So I was pleased with the score but there are a few more points to come!

Just 1 pic of M in the dry grass on the 4th.

Thu 25th June - 18 at Paultons

With R after work. We let the handicap system work out the hole play, this favours R on the front 9 and me on the back 9.

True to form I was down a bit on the front with an acceptable 51, but on the back 9 R was struggling with a swing and I played well. So it was an easy win for a change. I was especially pleased to get over the lake and to manage 3 par 5's. Must be a record. My score is click here.

I had 8 proper golf scores including 5 pars. My putting owed me 1 and there were 5, 3 putts. My worst score on the front 9 was 7 and 6 on the back 9 (another record). I messed up one hole landing in the trees from the tee on the 3rd. So a good round with the possibility of improvement.

Looks like a nice day!

Sun 21st June 2015 - 18 at Dummer

With M and A before Hilton Dinner. This blog is late so my memory is sketchy. From photo looks like we started just after 2 in pleasant weather.

M had 2 holes with advantage 1st and last. This time they did not help.  We set off quite even on first 10 holes. No one won by more than a shot. After this we had M winning holes easily on 11, 14 and 16 and I had a 6 shot win on hole 15. It was still close as I was up by 1 on the 16th. In the end I managed to win the last and won by 2 holes. My score is click here.

My scoring was the worst for some time with only 5 proper golf scores all bogeys. My putting owed me 2 shots with 6, 3 putts (sigh). I messed up 4 holes mainly on the back 9. On the 8th I always seem to end up to the right of the green making a tricky shot over the hill (must aim left more). The 11th set of ok but my 2nd landed in the bunker and it took 3 more to the green. The 16th was bad from the tee and I put one in the lake and ended up with 10. The last hole was almost ok with none lost but I 3 putt to end. On another day it could easily have been several shots better. Hey ho great fun!

A found something interesting?

The hole before the white house

Thu 18th June 2015 - 18 Holes at a hot Paultons

With R after work, R paid I owe next week. The weather was very hot even at 4 o'clock.

We set of after a 2 man buggy and were followed by a 3 man buggy combo. We let the buggy behind go after R lost a ball on the 4th. After that on the 6th we caught up a very slow 2 ball with an elderly golfer, hats off for him not using a buggy. They let us through on the 10th and then we had a clear run to the end.

My first shot was the best ever getting well down the hill but with a downhill lie I cuffed the 2nd, went over and ended up with 7, my worst for some time on this hole. Still I played the 2nd well getting to the green in 3, pity I 3 putted and it was all square. The next 4 were all 5 or less for me and I was 3 up. Then a duff from the tee on the 7th ending up with 8 let R get one back and another on the "easy" par 3.  For a change I played the 9th well and  ended up 2 up after 9.

At the start of the back 9 I had a nice run of 5,5,4,5 but them messed up the 14th with a lost ball and a bunker ending in a 9.  By the 15th my lead had gone and it was all square with 3 to play. We drew the 16th (I should have won this as R lost a ball from the tee!). I played the 17th well until I was short of the green (grr). We drew the last with 5 each so R won by 1. Great fun as usual! My score is click here.

My putting ended up 2 in my favour but I had 3, 3 putts which I could have done without. The greens were very hard and fast. I had 10 proper golf scores with a nice par on the 13th. I ended up messing up 4 holes, the first due to a sloppy 2nd shot after a great tee. The 14th from a bad tee shot followed by a trip to the bunker. The 15th was another poor tee shot which did not even get as far as the lake, I then used my 7i to clear the lake and lost the ball out the back. The 17th went well until my chip to the green went left leaving a chip back on over a hill and a bunker.  Without messing up from being short and avoiding penalties and no 3 putts I could have scored 4+2+3 better.

This pattern is bad.. short,bunker,short and this over,over and short,over. I may add a checker for this on the website.

These patterns are good: edge and 1 this is as good as green and 1. edge and 2 is as good as green and 2.

Sun 7th Aug 2015 - 18 Holes at Dummer at the last minute

With M after a weekend away (for both). I arrived almost late due to traffic at M3/M27 border. We were off at 5:18 or so with no one in front and only a lone golfer behind. We let the lone golfer through at the 5th and we were called through a group of 2 on the 13th.

The weather was very pleasant just a bit of wind to help or hinder. The fairways were perhaps a bit long but the greens were great. M had some fun in the bunkers.

On the1st M needed mulligan to get going using his 3w and went right from the tee. I was nicely on the fairway from the tee and hit a straight left as I have tendency to do early on. So M won the first. The 2nd was a draw as we both made it more difficult than it usually is. I won the 3rd and it was all square. From the tee on the 4th I was in the ditch but made a good recovery. M was left but we were both one the green in 3 and down in 2 for a draw. On the par 3, 5th I went over into the back bunker with my 6i (never before) that gave M the chance and he took it to go 1 up. I came straight back with 2 in a row but M didn't mess about on the 9th when I went down the ditch again and it was all square after 9.

On the back 9 M won then I won 2 then M won 1 and it was all square after 13. On the 14th par 3 however I broke the deadlock with a par after almost going over the back again and M went in the big bunker. We drew the next 2 and on the 17th we were both on the green in 1 (never before!), Ms putting let him down and I was 2 up with 1 to play. On the 18th I did a nice tee shot and then hit one out of bounds and one in the pond. M's 2nd shot was great across the lake and was on the green in 4 and then lets not talk about the putting. Anyway M won the last for pride and I won by 1.

We both played quite well messing up only a few holes, I don't think M used his 3W after the first. The irons were working well especially on holes with wind behind. If M had avoided bunkers that would have saved 3 shots and without the poor putting on the 18th could have scored 5 less. My score is click here.

My putting owed me 1 with 3, 3 putts. I had 9 proper scores with 2 par 3's and a par 4 on the 11th. I messed up the firs 2 holes and the last. On the 1st I must watch out for early shots going straight left (this time into trouble). On the 2nd I had a duff 2nd shot into the ditch for a penalty. On the last I was just a wimp on my 2nd shot and the lost a ball as well. So I should have been 5 shots or so better. Still I was happy considering I had not played for 2 weeks.

Golden Pond?

Sat 23rd May 2015 - 18 Holes at Dummer - private golf course

With M. I was dropped off by family and we had a tee time of 2:00pm. The course was empty. No one in front of behind for the whole round. A real privilege!

The weather was kind. Mainly sunny but with a significant wind that helped on some holes and hindered on others. The course was in great shape, the fairways were dry, the bunkers had proper sand in. We had a bit of problem with the greens early on as they had a few spike holes and were very fast.

We set off pretty even drawing the first 2 holes, both struggling with the speed of the greens. On the 3rd the wind helped me down to the green and gave me the first hole. On the 4th M went a long way left and gave me another. On the 4th I was very pleased to get to the back of the green from the tee while M took a dip in the pond. So I was 3 up after 5. The 6th was odd as the wind helped but I landed in the left-hand bunker again!. I must remember that over to the right there is no bunker, this has caught me out several times. In the end we drew this with a pair of 8's. On the next 2 par 4's M switched from 3W to 4i and the change was impressive. We both ended up with 5's on holes 7 and 8. On the 9th I went left into deep grass and duffed my way out and M got a hole back. So after 9 I was 2 up.

On the 10th M had a duff from the tee but still managed to get a draw with a 6. On the 11th I hit my best tee shot ever on this hole and managed a rare par and I was 3 up again. We drew the 12th despite a duff from the tee for me. On the13th I hit another nice tee shot and M went well right. Ms 2nd shot was good enough to end with a 5 where I went down death valley on the right and dropped a shot. I was just 2 up again. The cross wind on the next par 3 across the bunker helped me onto the green for a par while M dropped a shot coming out of the bunker. Back to 3 up. So with 4 to play I was 3 up. On the 15th we both played better than usual not worrying about the left hand bunkers, M went over them and I went right. My 2nd was a nice lay up for the green while M went way over to the right, however I chipped short and M landed on the green and I was down to 2 up with 3 to play. From the 16th tee M almost made it to the green with just a 4i. I went right and was lucky to find my ball, M made a par and I was 1 up with 2 to play. My tee shot at the 17th was one of my best but it was 2 feet short of the green and landed in the bunker. M went well right and we were both in trouble. I got out in one but went over, M got onto the green and I was in trouble. A poor chip from the hill fell short of the green and M made another par making it all square. I had lost my 3 shot lead in 3 holes.

On the last hole M had the only extra handicap shot of the day so I had to win the hole just to draw. Still anything can happen on this hole and its not unusual for either for both to take a dip in the pond.
M's tee shot with his 4i went as far as he has been before quite close to the lake. My tee shot was in a nice central position perhaps 40yds from the lake. My 2nd just made it over the lake to the left. Ms 2nd followed but was a little closer to the green. From 150 to go 1 gave it a good shot with my 4i but landed left of the green close to the clubhouse. M also went for the green but gave me a chance, landing in the green side bunker with an awkward lay. This was my best chance for a draw as we both have a tendency to duff our way out of bunkers.  His shot came out well but landed short of the green, I did similar with my chip and we finished with a rare 6 each and a win for M. The Geller trophy goes back North.

This was the best combined 9 holes we have ever played with both less than 50. Makes us think that we are getting a bit better. Great fun and so close. I had better be careful that losing on the last holes does not become a habit! My score is click here.

My putting owed me 1 including 3, 3 putts but this was the quick greens. I had several edge chances to get a 1 putt that I failed to convert. I had 9 proper golf scores including 2 pars. My 2 messed holes were both due to bunkers.

Nice day for golf!

Me from the 4th tee

M getting over the dip

M on the 14th tee for the 10th green?

Looked like rain but it never did!

Wed 21st May 2015 - 18 at Paultons repeat 7i

With R after work. After playing well last week we adjusted my handicap to have 1 extra on the par 5s and played with all sticks less that a 7i.

I set off well with a nice par but R quickly replied with a par on the long 2nd. I was going OK but landed in the bunker on my 3rd shot. It was all even until I went in the bunker for no good reason on the 5th and it cost me 2. I struggled as usual on the par 3, 8th and hit a few duffs on the 9th up the hill. After 9 R was 1 up and we were not playing as well as the week before.

On the 10th I took one back and took another on the 13th where we were called through a very slow 3 ball with buggies. On the par 3 over the lake I did a duff and lost a ball and the hole and it was all square. It remained like this until the 18th. My 2nd shot went in the bunker and it cost me the match by 1 hole. Very close!

As I said we were not playing as well as the week before and this was probably due to trying a bit harder and therefore making more mistakes. Still  more fairways then usual so it says something! My score is click here.

My putting was 2 to the good so thats nice with just 1, 3 putt. 8 proper golf scores with a par on the 1st and short par 3 12th. I only messed up 1 hole the 9th with a duff from the tee and then 2 more and landed in the long grass and then 3 putt... grr. I should have saved 2 by avoiding the bunker on the 5th, 1 on the 7th where I landed in the trees, at least 2 on the 9th and perhaps 1 by avoiding the lake on the 15th. That would have been a very good score! Still 7i still gives me hope!

Sun 17th May 2015 - 18 Holes at Chichester after breakfast

Met M at 9 for 9:18 tee time. I had just time to make my self breakfast and almost arrived late. No problem the weather was kind (a bit windy again), the fairways and greens good and I did not get stuck in any bunkers so can't be bad. Can't remember who we followed or who followed us...

I had a duff from the tee and then went in the bunker where M was almost on the green. Funny game golf, M over hit his putt and I won with a 5 (should never happen). The 2nd and 3rd felt easy and they were my holes. On the 4th I hit my 7i straight out of bounds left an then lost a ball right while M got a par. M then took the next hole and I was just 1 up. We drew a couple and on the 8th M got another to make it all square (with a tee shot into the bunker next to the green - unlucky!). The 9th was mine by 1 due to a duff by M.

On the 10th M had an extra point but just missed out and we drew then next few. I was 1 up with 6 to play but that was enough and the trophy stays South. My score is click here.

My putting was even with 1, 3 putt and 1, 1 putt. I only managed 6 proper golf scores with a par on the 3rd over the lake. I only messed one hole up thats the 4th due to my new 7i shot that goes much further that it used to. I was a bit disappointed on the 17th where a nice tee shot went left into the ditch, M found the ball but it was unplayable. So should have saved 1 shot on the 1st, 2 on the 4th and 1 on the 17th and 1 putt. Still I was very pleased..

It was a nice day

M taking an alternative route

Wed 13th May 2015 - 18 Hole 7 Iron Challenge at Paultons

With R after work. This is our annual 7 Iron challenge. This year for the first time I played off the same handicap as R with the same sticks. So we both had 7i, pw, sw and putter.

16 quid as usual. We were following a 3 ball who had a slow 4 ball in front of them. There was a buggy behind and we let them through after 2. We eventually got called through the 4 ball on the 9th and we got stuck a bit behind the 2 in the buggy till the end. Hey ho...

We both set off with poorish tee shots and R went 1 up with a 5. On the 2nd I had a poor tee shot and a duff and R again won with a 6. The pattern was repeated on the 3rd and R was 3 up. Then things changed. On the 4th I made a 20 ft putt to get 4 and got one back. I repeated a 4 on the 5th (very unusual). I was starting to hit my 7i a similar distance to R and this became the standard. I managed a par on the long par 5, 7th and ended the 1st 9 with an identical number of points (44) and 3 holes each. This is by far my best front 9 ever.

We both had a bit of a blip on the 10th I had to hit my 2nd out of a ditch an we both went over the back for a pair of 7s. I recovered on the 10th but R lost a ball from the tee. We both ended up in the bunker in 3 on the 13th and R got out one sooner than I did. All square again. I was VERY pleased to get over the lake with my 7i (I have trouble with a 4i). A poor chip on the 16th gave R one hole and I took one back on the 17th. At this point we were still equal on points and holes. My tee shot went right just making it over the trees. Rs tee shot went into the trees. R did a great chip out and I continued right as the pin was on the right. R was forced to go for the green on his 3rd making it but over to the left. My 3rd got to the edge of the green and I had a small chance of a 4. R did an average put followed by a great put and I had 1 chance to win. I missed and managed a draw. Identical points and holes with identical sticks!

My score was my 2nd best ever at Paultons and I am wondering if I should just stick to using my 7i. My score is click here.

I managed 11 proper scores including 4 pars. My putting was 4 under and even playing of a handicap of 23 I only messed up 2 holes. The 10th with going over the back of the green instead of a simple chip onto the green. The 13th was 2 bunkers and a 3 putt. This could easily have been green and 2. I think the most significant stats is 21 shots on fairways (compare to my best score which only had 13 fairway shots). I was very pleased to be able to match R shot for shot on most holes, there was a lot of social golf!

Golden shot of Pond (after 4 each)

Sun 10th May 2015 - 9 Holes at Swanmoor Golf Centre

On an unusual Sunday evening everyone was out so I decided to go and check out a local 9 hole that we had passed on the bikes a few weeks ago. I rang to make sure they were still open and arrived just after 6, paid 10 pound something and set off. The weather was pleasant, warm with a light breeze.

I saw a couple of golfers near the end of their round as I set off then no one else.

As this is the first time:

The first is a longish par 3 with trees to the left. The 2nd is right round the back of the driving range, the tee is at the top of a hill, this is another longish par 3 over a ditch with trees. The 3rd is to the right, a very short par 3 protected at the rear by trees to keep people on the 4th tee safe. The 4th is the first long hole up the hill. The 5th tee is across the road and is another short par 3. The 6th is a nice open long hole down hill across a small ditch to the green. The 7th is a par 3 uphill. The 8th is back towards the start with a sloping fairway. The 9th is a nice par 3 through the trees.

The fairways needed a bit of a cut but the greens were well maintained and a bit small so tough to get the ball to stick. There are plenty places to get into trouble!

I played OK despite making a few errors on a new course. I made the worst mess on the very short par 3 and lets say it was a good job there was no one one the 4th tee. My score is click here.

As it was a short 9 hole I gave myself a 9 handicap and only messed 2 holes up. The 3rd by going over the trees and the 4th with a couple of duffs and a 3 putt. I was pleased with a par on the last par 3 getting onto the green in 1.

Definitely a nice course to visit if time is limited and short game practice is required. A bit tricky despite its shortness.

The 2nd Green

The 6th from the tee

Mon 4th May - 10 Holes before breakfast at Tattershall

With M. Setting off at 7am it time to get back before the rest woke up. I set off well and won the first 4 holes while M lost a few balls. Then on the 5th I put one in the ditch and followed it with another and a bit of confidence disappeared. I put another one in a ditch on the 7th. I had won 4 drawn 2 and M won 2. On the last 2 M lost a few more balls and we were glad to get back for breakfast.

The weather was glorious and still very windy! Great fun.

Nice Morning!

View from the "Lodge"

Sun 3rd May 2015 - 18+10 Holes at Tattershall

With M at 1pm after a rainy windy morning. We walked to the office to pay 10 quid each but they were so disorganised that they had no scorecards and let us have 2 for the price of 1. Then it was a walk back to the 1st tee.

As its the first time:

The 1st was across the mud. The 2nd was back across the mud again. The 3rd was across the edge of the lake. The 4th was a long one into the wind. The 5th was off to the left by the dyke. The 6th was a par 3 to the closest of the pair of greens. The 7th was a nightmare par 3 with a dyke. The 8th was a long one across a ditch. The 9th was back parallel to the 8th to the other close green. The 10th was a blind shot right then over the hedge. The 11th was a par 3 across the lake. The 12th was across a hedge. The 13th was back down parallel to the 4th. The 14th is a very odd dogleg right round the lake. The 15th goes away from the lake across a small ditch. The 16th is a par 3 protected by trees and a small hill. The 17th is elevated with a fairway on the left and over a hedge to the green. The 18th is a par 3 over some bushes.

We set off well with a pair of 4s on the first. We both struggled on the 2nd over the mud and M hit the only tree to bounce back. This was 1 up for me. Over the lake we had no idea how to play it. I went into the bush for a penalty and M was short but no balls lost and a draw. The 4th was a disaster for M with lost balls and a load of duffs for me. The wind was very strong against!. But I was the least worst. We had a long pause before starting the 5th as we were unsure. It was left along the dyke. M had trouble and went well right. On the par 3 6th M won his first hole and I was just 2 up. On the nasty par 3 over the dyke we both lost balls from the tee. It should have been easy using 2*PW. On the long 8th M had more trouble than me and I went 3 up followed by another on the 9th. This was the start of my longest run of 4s ever. I had a lucky break on the blind 10th. We both managed to get safely over the lake on the 11th (something we would have struggled with n the past). On the 11th I had another lucky 4 and was 5 ahead. On the long 12th with the wind behind M beat me due to a poor tee shot. On the 13th I had no idea where the hole was but got a lucky break onto the green in 3 and with an audience I holed a long put (feeling pretty pleased with myself). This was my last win as we drew the remaining 4 holes. On the 15th we struggled from the tee going right. On the par 3 right we both got stuck on the hill for 5s. On the elevated 17th we both got 4 with a nice fairway. On the 18th M managed to get over the trees and I did a feeble right round the trees but it was a draw in the end.

So 18 holes completed and we returned for food and drink. After a while we wondered if we could create a 9 hole starting near our lodge. M drew a map and we had time to test it before sunset. The order was 15, 16, 12, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 17 and 18. Which we later realised was 10. It was fun to play with no competition and we both improved a bit on our earlier performance. On the 18th we were challenged by the security guard and luckily M had the tickets so all was deemed to be OK.

M in the Bad Lands

Danger deep water!

Me

Preparing for the par 3 across the pond (both made it!)

Sat 2nd May 2015 - 18 Holes at Sleaford with giant greens

With M. A was part time bunker rake and flag holder.

We arrived at 2:30 and the price was 40 quid each. We waited till 3 and the price was 20 quid each. The weather was overcast and a little chilly and very windy. We were following a 2 ball that were quicker than us and were followed by a 4 ball that were slower so the pace was perfect. It had been 2 years since our last match here and we were hoping to see some improvement. Last time I had been frustrated by my inability to reach the fairways from the tee.

M started off right with a lost ball and I did ok until a 3 putt on the giant green. So it was 1 to me. On the 2nd I messed up the tee shot short and left and continued left in the rough to give M an easy win for 1 each. The 3rd was M's but on the 4th I managed to get straight back with a lucky 5 on the most difficult hole.. The par 3 5th was mine due to Ms duff tee shot and I was 1 up. On the 6th and 7th across the road M had 2 pars and he went 1 up. The first 7 holes had the wind behind, on the turn into the wind on the 8th I got more difficult! M had no trouble from the tee but mine was weak and a flukey hole from the edge saved a bad score. M was 2 up. Back across the road M lost a ball left and I managed to pull one back, So after 9 M was 1 up.

On the back 9 we were both struggling into the wind but I managed to keep my ball in sight and M got into some trouble. This meant I won 3 in a row, going 2 up. I was pleased to get over the par 3 tree hole with an 8i. On the 13th we had caught a slow 4 ball and had to wait to tee off. I went left and M went right but we both ended up with 6 the first drawn hole. Into the wind on the every long par 5 we were called through. M went right and I made a good shot that got stuck in the wind. We made painful progress to the green where M lost a ball under pressure which we ignored due to pressure of being called through. In the end the hole was mine and  was 3 up. The long par 3 had wind behind, I went a poor right and M went long into the trees at the back of the green. I was 4 up with 3 to play. On the 16th back into the wind M got 5 to recover 1 hole but lost a ball on the 17th and I was 4 up again. We both did poor tee shots from the18th but looks respectable in front of the clubhouse with 5 each including nice pitches to the green. Lucky for me that I won as the trophy was back at home.

Hanging around to avoid paying loads o money

M took an artistic shot of a bridge

The train is coming on the 18th

Fri 1st May 2015 - 5 night time holes at Tatershall Lakes.

With M on family trip up North.

We arrived late after a c%^p journey but managed to save the day by playing 5 holes for free from the tee just outside our lodge. On the first M played blinder and had a par 4 and repeated it on the next. There was some confusion over which pin was in play for the next par 3 which we drew (I think). Then it was getting dark and I lost track of the scoring. I even used my glow in the dark ball (which did not feel like a golf ball more like a stone!) The golf course had no good comments from the internet but I would say that it would be worth playing 10 quid to play all 18 holes. If this was a trophy match I think M would be the winner!

No style - buts its dark and the moon is out!

Sun 26th April 2015 - 18 Holes at Dummer

I am completing this blog over a week late and with a couple of other games in-between so the detail may be a bit sketchy we shall see. It was with M and I think A was there too.

It set off with a mulligan for M as we had no warm up. I went left and then more left into the thick grass. A found the ball which was lucky but the error cost me the hole. However then things got better for me and I did not mess up another hole until the last. We drew the 2nd despite me going into the bunker again. I managed to win the 3rd and we drew the 4th so it was all square. I can't remember how but I managed to win the next 5 in a row making it 5 up after 9. We drew the 10th and M pulled 1 back o the 11th. The rest of the back 9 was 3 each and a couple of draws leaving me with a comfortable win.  On the par 3 across the bunker M got a 2 and I got a 3, looks like we can play golf sometimes! Not very usual for Dummer. My score is click here.

My putting was -2 which is a good trend, with just 2*3 putt. I managed 8 proper scores including 2 par 3s and 2 par 4s. I only messed 2 holes up, the first with my left shots and the last by hitting my 3rd shot out of bounds. Still one of my few sub 100 rounds at Dummer. Not sure how I managed the good score especially on the back 9 where I missed most fairways from the tee. Keep that trophy down South!

Thur April 23rd 2015 - 18 holes at Paultons with a new record

With R on Thursday for a change. It was a non-eating day for me. 16 quid each as usual. The weather was warm and sunny with not too much wind. We followed 1 bloke who was quick. The fairways were good but the greens were quite bumpy (I never tested the bunkers).

The first hole saw a nice par for both, On the 2nd I dropped a putt. On the 3rd I went right into the trees and took a penalty. On the 4th I had a couple of tricky shots out of long grass.  We were all square. Then it all started to go well and I had several bits of good luck. As usual I messed up the par 3, 8th failing to hit a good pw from the tee and ending with a 3 putt, but R had trouble too and we drew this hole. On the 10th I hit a nice tee shot, followed up with a nice shot to 20 yards from the green and chipped it in for a 3. R did not win another hole until the easy par 3, 12th. I was pleased to par the 13th and the par 3 across the lake. A pity I had a 4 putt on the 16th and I missed an easy 1 footer n the 18th. Never mind that its my best score ever. R never had a chance I am sure he will try fixing my handicap. My score is click here.

My putting was just +1 despite my chip on the 10th, I had 3*3 putts and 1*4. I had 11 proper scores including a birdie and 5 pars. I only messed up one hole, the 16th after getting just short of the green in 3 then I muffed my putts. I know that one round does not make you a good golfer but it was fun and gives you hope!

Sun 19th April 2015 - Forgot the Trophy for 18 Holes at Dummer

An unusual weekend with 2 games of golf with M. We had a tee time just after 1pm. The weather was nice but with a cold strong East wind. We took our usual 2 quids worth of practice balls and had time for a bunker practice (No sure it made any difference). We were off 10 mins after the last in a competition so we never saw anyone. There was no one behind either!

We both started off ok but I had a nice 1 putt to win the first. On the 2nd M went well left but managed to get on the green in 2. I had a bunker on my second but managed another 1 putt to draw the hole. M then won the next 2 and  we drew the 5th. So it was very close as usual. At the end of the front 9 I was just 1 up.  M was not using his lethal 3W so it often came down to a chipping and putting competition and I came off better. Winning the trophy for the 2nd time in a week. (A good job because I had forgotten it!). Again we were affected badly by the wind which made quite a difference. My score is click here.

My putting was +3 which I was pleased with as it included 3 unwanted 3, putts. I had 7 proper golf scores but only 1 par (the 16th due to wind behind). I only messed up 1 hole, the 15th into the wind and I went into the trees and should have taken a penalty, went short, over and 3 putt. I lost 1 in the lake due to a daft mistake playing from GUR instead of taking a drop.

These are my goals: less 3 putts. less short+over, less short+short. This could have saved me 3+2+1.

Bunker practice .. no style!

M in a bunker on the 17th after a great tee shot

M counting the cost!

Fri 19th April 2015 - Mixing it with the footgolfers and 18 at Chichester

This was a 10 quid deal after 4 pm. A bargain! We had time to do some of the 9 hole par 3 but it was a bit awkward due to the popular foot golfers. I am sure they will work out how to mix it with less disruption to golf or foot. We just played empty holes and it was a nice warmup.

We had a tee time of 4:32 and we had to wait our turn. 10 quid golf is popular. The 2 in front started scrappy and then pulled away easily  The 2 behind were slower than us so we could make our own time (always nice). The weather was sunny but windy (very windy). We found playing into the wind difficult on several holes. This week it was against us on the long par 5 12th and we paid the price. No real rain recently means the course is in good shape and the fairways are getting hard. The greens are still a bit bumpy but are getting there.

We set of with 4 each on the first both making it to the edge from the tee. On the 2nd M had trouble on the left among the trees and I went 1 up. This was quickly lost as I cuffed the 3rd tee shot and had to take a penalty, and it was all square. We both pared the 4th with the help of wind behind. So pretty even. The next should have been even however Ms first went in the lake and I went 1 up as a direct consequence. Ms tee on the dog leg was high enough to get over the 'leg' but the wind stopped it early and he had an awkward shot round the cornet giving me the hole. We both made a pathetic attempt at the par 3 8th with M losing  a ball well left in the thick trees, fairly it was a draw as I chipped over the back. Into the wind on the 9th and I managed to win another and was 3 up.

With the wind behind I took advantage of my extra shot on the 10th to win another and won the 11th as well. So, 5 up but 7 to play. On the 12th into the wind I never hit the fairway and took 9 while M did better to get 1 back. A bunker for both of us on the easy 13th and M got out better and got another back. We drew the par 3 into the wind with a pair of 4s and M won the next into the wind. So I was 3 up with 3 to play, it was close again! From the tee on the 16th M did not go very far and then lost one left so that was enough for me. We both had terrible tee shots with a cross wind on the 17th and we both put 1 in the water on our second shot (M retrieved mine so not lost!). Luckily for me I recovered but M had more water and bunker trouble giving me a hole win with an 8. The last had a great back wind giving me my best tee shot ever on this hole which I converted to a par. So the Geller trophy comes home for a change! We got round in 3.5 hours in plenty time before it went dark. My score is click here.

My putting was +1 with a couple of 3s so room for improvement. I had 8 proper scores with 2 par 4's.  I messed up 3 holes. The 3rd with a duff from the tee. The 12th into the wind where I never got on the fairway once and added a 3 putt. The 13th was a good tee and a poor 2nd into the bunker then paid the price. Could easily have been a few better on a different day.

2 in a bunker at the 13th

Long shadows for Instagram

Sundown before the 18th

Wed 15th April 2015 - Scorching 18 Holes at Paultons

After work with R. I heard the weather was hotter than Spain. It was hot! We got a 3:35 tee time and R had to rush to get there, not the best start for him, a mulligan followed by a slightly better one. I had nice tee shot and went over the back but still won the hole.

The course was in good shape, the greens were a bit less bumpy (I managed to avoid the bunkers so can't really comment).

On the second I had another nice tee shot (good for the 2nd hole) again I went over the back and it cost me the hole. A fairly uneventful first 9 left us all square. A pity I made a mess of the 8th as usual. Must try a 9i next time.

On the back 9 I played a bit better which has been a recent pattern. I was pleased to get over the pond ok with a 4i even though it was a bit right, However R played really well on  a few holes and with 2 to play R was 2 up. Not deterred I concentrated and won the last 2 forcing a draw! Thats 2 draws in 1 week. We finished in about 3.5 hours which was slow considering we had no one infront or behind.
My score is click here.

My putting was +2 even though it included 3*3 putts. I forgot to mention the flukey hole from a chip on the 7th giving me an unusual par. I made 7 proper golf scores including pars on 7th, 15th and 18th. A pity I messed up the easy 6th with poor chipping and putting. The 8th needs a different approach next time and the 9th would have been ok except for a duff up he hill and a 3 putt. I was just over the 100 but could have been at least a couple better on another day. Summer golf is easier than winter golf! No balls lost which is always good.

Hot!

Into the sun on the 14th

Last hole with all to play for

Sat 11th April 2015 - New Priv Card and 18 Holes at Chichester

This is the time of year when we have to renew our Chichester privilege cards. 99 quid for a year. M says it saves us about 50 quid so thats not bad. Must try to play more 9 holes for free this year!

Arrived in plenty time to pay but not enough for a practice and the tees in front were taken. We waited our turn. The guys in-front were a bit erratic but I understand that! After a few holes they pulled away and we only ended up waiting at a couple of holes where they lost balls. We were followed by a good pair who almost never had to wait. The fairways were great and so were the greens I avoided the bunkers so they were fine for me. I lost no balls or tees.

On the first I went just short and managed a par, M went in the bunker and then over and had a bit of a nightmare. So I went 1 up. Then after a nice approach to the 2nd I went over the back and M got a par. On the 3rd I again went over the back and M got a birdie. The wind was the significant factor and it was pretty constant either behind or ahead and made a big difference to distance. M was playing well from the tee and putting me under pressure on each hole. After 7, M was 4 up. I pulled one back on the 8th when M went behind a tree so after 9 he was 3 up. On the back 9 I was really concentrating and M made a couple of mistakes in the trees meaning I won 5 holes to M's 1, leaving me 1 up with 2 to play. On the 17th I played a nice tee shot and was safe on the 2nd. M's long tee shot was ok but was followed by a dip in the pond. Ms next shot was into the greenside bunker so I thought right thats it... Not so! He got out in one and down in the next where I took an odd extra shot to get to the green, forcing a draw. So still 1 up with 1 to play. No problem I just had to draw. I had a nice tee shot within reach of the green. Ms long tee shot was just short of the green. Our second shots both landed short so it was now a putting competition and all I had to do was draw. Ms putt was worse than mine so his 4th shot was a good 20 ft and .. guess what .. it went in! I took 2 putts and M had levelled the score with the last shot.

Could not have been closer! My score is click here.

As is fairly typical my putting owed me 1 but there were 2*3 putts. I had 8 proper golf scores with only 1 par at hole #1. I only messed up 2 holes The 2nd by going over the back with the wind and the difficult 5th where I had to take a penalty due to an unplayable ball (in the ditch). Definitely playing better than the last time mainly due to lack of 4r and 5w.

We had time for putting practice

M in a bunker

The last tee - all I had to do was draw...

Nice day for it!

Wed 8th April 2015 - 18 Holes at Paultons

A bit late with this blog so my memory is a bit hazy.

With R after work, weather pleasant, following 2 ball that gave up after 9. Followed by good 2 ball but managed to keep ahead (just).

Set off OK with minor blip on 2nd where I went from tee to rough. Pretty even for first 9 , then after a poor 10th I played one of my best back 9s and leaving R wondering what to do.

My score is click here.

My putting was a healthy +7 which helps the score a lot. With no 3 putts! I had 11 proper golf scores including 2 par 3s. I only messed up hole 10 where my 2nd shot took me into the rough and I had a couple of duffs. I had 1 penalty on the long 7th but I found the ball out of bounds. I made a mess as usual of the 8th in the bunker and then over. I was pleased to just get over the lake at the 15th (must heave been a back wind!). With a bit more luck I could have avoided the penalty scored 1 less on the 8th and had 1 shot better on the 10th this would have been a world record.

Fun and my best score for a while!

No photographic evidence.

Sun 5th April 2015 - 18 Holes at Dummer - No Trophy!

Started badly when I realised I had not brought the trophy. I expect its because I never have it (LOL). Met M and A exactly 5 mins late, perfect. Quit expensive but it was Sunday morning so I suppose its ok!.

We had time for 14 balls each. My 7i worked best? Seems like a long time since we last played. Anyway the weather was fine and quite warm enough for no coat as long as the sun shone .. which it mainly did. The course was dry as usual but the greens were quite lumpy looked like they were treating them in some way.

I st off well getting to the edge of the green on 3 and beating M by 1. On the 2nd I hit a great tee shot but so far left I was in trouble from the start by the time I had been in a bunker it was an easy win for M. On the 3rd I set off ok but got into one of the dips and ended up giving M another. Still no harm and I played a flukey 4th with a par to square it up. Across the lake I was within putting distance from the tee but 3 putted and M had a nice par to win the hole. The M went on a charge and won the next 4 making 5 up after 9. My troubles were mainly due to not applying my usual rules about 5i and the fairway.

On the back 9 I played a more competitive game and I won 3 and we drew 4. M won a couple including the last which I lost by my own stupidity losing 2 in the lake.

I could make excuses about feeling tired but its is mainly down to M's improved tee shots and a lot less penalties that accounts for the difference. So the trophy returns North (Virtually anyway!).

 My score is click here.

This time I can't really blame my putting as it was one under. I can complain about the 2, 3 putts and 1, 4 putt on a particularly tough 16th pin position. I was way under my usual fairways from the tee, probably because I risked bigger sticks that usual. I was also struggling with bunkers maybe to the cost of 4 points. On the last hole I should have at least drawn as I had a handicap shot on M. Instead I lost 2 balls and landed in a green side bunker. I did end on a high with a 20 foot put from off the green that went down. (Saving a 10 :-(). So with perhaps 2 from putting and 4 from bunkers and 2 from lost balls, my score would be more respectable.

Contrast my troubles with M who only messed up one hole (the 16th with a 4 putt).

10th I think

A rare occasion where I went longer then M from the tee

Sat 21 March 2015 - 18 Holes for 3 at Chichester

I avoided breakfast at the clubhouse for a change but met M after he had not avoided it! We had a tee time of just after 8. We were following a 3 ball who kept ahead of us with no problem. The lone golfer following asked if we minded going round as a 3. We expressed alarm and said we were rubbish etc but he was not put off. No one caught us and the pace was a steady 4 hours with no waiting.

The weather was even better than the previous week and the course had no boggy sections and the greens are getting towards their summer standard.

M was first as the defending champion and got to the green, I went right with a bit of a duff under pressure and the other golfer M2 went in the bunker. M got stuck in straight away with a longish putt to start with a birdy. I struggled to chip and got down in 5.

On the 2nd I went down the fairway to the green in 3 while M went right, this was a drawn hole. M2 hit a very long straight drive and was on the green in 2. (Turns out he has a handicap of 6).

With the extra observer I was nervous across the lake but managed to scrape across and got down in 3 and getting even.  As the game went on we relaxed a bit and started to play our usual game feeling less pressure.  On hole 5 we saw how easy it is to get a par if only you can hit a long straight drive. By the end of the front 9, I was 2 holes up and I get a shot on the 10th which I won anyway.  After 11, I was 4 up. We shared the wins and draws on the remaining holes  with result that the Geller comes back South.

As well as getting a first hand view of a good golfer playing off white tees we had a few tips which may help if future games. In particular confidence to hit down behind the ball in a bunker and also to make sure the ball in in the centre of your stance.

M played well from the tee using his trusty 3W and on the 17th hit a long drive that just stayed out of the pond and managed a par... not sure if this has been done before? He had an interesting escape from a lost ball on the dogleg 7th where that ball suck in the fence (see photo). My score is click here.

I got to the green with a chance of a proper golf score on 6 holes but only converted 3 of these. My putting owed me 3 including 7, 3 putts not sure how much was bad putting and how much was bad chipping. I managed 4 proper scores but only 1 par (the par 3, 3rd). I messed up 2 holes. Hole 7 was a pity as I was set up to get to the green in 3 and instead I went for a couple of shots in the bunker and then added a 3 putt. On the 16th I hit a poor tee shot using 4i instead of 5i and then adding the only duff of the day perhaps because I was thinking about keeping the ball in the middle of my stance. So with 3 less putts, one less bunker and no lost balls on 16 and 17, I could have been 6 better. I also messed up the tee shot on the 15th resulting in a penalty that should have been avoidable.

Still playing with 3 makes a change and it was fun to win for a change!

M looking for a nice up and down

Moody skies at the 14th

Sat 14th March 2015 - Breakfast and 18 Holes at Chichester

With M meeting for breakfast at 7. When I set off from home it said 1 degree but it was 3 at Chichester. So cold but pleasant! We set off on cold gear but in the middle it warmed up enough to take a layer off. Breakfast was good as usual except perhaps the sausages were not cooked as well as usual?

The course had dried out a lot since last week and this helps. I am not sure the greens are in the best state yet and perhaps this was to blame for some of the putting problems!

We were following a few quick 2 balls that accelerated away and we never saw them again. We managed to keep ahead of a 4 ball never closer than 2 or 3 holes. This meant the pace was perfect!

For myself, what a difference a week makes! I thoroughly enjoyed being out playing golf, no tiredness and no where near the same number of disasters. On the first tee M got to the green and I went in the bunker but we still drew with 4 each. On the 2nd I went on the fairway to green in 3 and sadly 3 putted but still won the hole. Its been a long time since I have been in the lead. The 3rd over the lake was into the wind but we both managed to get over then both put balls over the back... My ball went too far and it cost me the hole (with a penalty). So all square after 3. M had the best start ever on hole 5 way down the fairway, but I managed a respectable tee shot over the pond. My 2nd shot was good enough to make a challenge but Ms good start gave the advantage and he won the hole, NOTE: 5 and 6 is probably one of the best combined efforts on this hole. On hole 6 I decided to risk my 5W for the first time in ages and it worked well enough to win the hole. At the end of the front 9, M was up by 1 hole, but it was very even. On the 10th I have an extra shot which I converted to a 'won' hole and followed with another to go 1 up after 11. Then hole 12! I set off OK but my 2nd was hooked and my 3rd was in the trees on the left. This cost me 10 and M won with a poor 8. We have both played this hole better recently. So back to all square. M played a great hole on the easy 13th and managed a par to go 1 ahead, We drew the next 2 but M won the 16th after a long drive from the tee. With 2 to play I was 2 down. Ms tee shot from the 17 was well right and he landed in the bunker before the green, this cost him the hole. So on the last hole I was playing for a draw. I had a lucky brush with the tree from the tee and M hit a blinder almost to the green. It was close but the 3rd par of the day was enough for him to win by 2. I am sure the Geller trophy is gathering dust not up North.

So it was close! My score is click here.

My putting was 1 over but only 2, 3 putts so not so bad really.  My scoring was not terrible with 15 holes at 6 or less but there were only 4 proper golf scores all bogeys. (need to convert 6's into 5's). I was not too bad off the tee with 10 FIRs. I messed up 3 holes. The 3rd with the poor chip and a penalty. The 9th I blame on use of my 5W setting off right into the trees. The 12th must have been lack of concentration I hit a few good shots into trouble with a few duffs to get out.

Contrast this with M who won on all scoring methods. Only 3 FIR (10 right). Putting minus 5 with 4,  3 putts. 7 proper golf scores (3 pars). He also messed up 3 holes. And still won! If there problems were sorted out I would be in real trouble!

One stat that is unusual is that there were no lost balls and only 1 penalty (me).

The 5th is drying out nicely!

Nice even before we started

Oh dear not one for the sky sports shot analyser

Sat 7th March 2015 - A bit of par 3 and 18 holes at Chichester

I almost forgot to blog this one. The reason for this will become clear as you read on...

With M (and A as part time flag holder). We met in time to get a couple of the par 3 holes done for a warm up. To be honest I can't remember how this went.

We set off with M using a 9i instead of a 6i with predictable results. I got onto the edge of the green (left) leaving an easy chip or put. My chip was so bad that I overshot the other side of the green. M did a nice recovery and finished with 4 and I took 5. This should have been a 3 or a 4 for me. Anyway no real problem, on the 2nd I hit a nice fairway and M went well right. I was just short of the green in 3 then overshot the green again and then a 3 putt. So from a good start for me, M had another win with a 7. So 2 down after 2. Time to calm down. M got straight onto the green on the 3rd and I went in the pond. Taking "one on the way in" I did it again! ending up with a 7 and I was 3 down after 3.

If you have every watched a sports person when you thought "whats wrong with them?" then that was me. I felt tired and had no energy and my golf was poor to go with it. We drew the 4th and M won the 5th and 6th. My first win cam on the par 3, 8th when I won with a 6 due to M taking a double dip in the pond. After 9 I was down by 5 holes. On the back 9 I played a little better and scoring better than M but it was too late and I lost by 3 holes. Even on the last hole I was in range of the green in 2 and added a duff, a short and an over while M got from under the hedge at beeches brook using my 60 degree wedge and managed a draw.  The Geller trophy seems to be stuck "Up North"! This will adjust M's handicap by 1!

Still apart from feeling slightly out of it it was still fun. My score is click here. My putting owed me 2 over par and included 4*3 putts so that could have been 4 less. I only had 4 proper golf scores the best being a nice par on the 15th. The 2nd was messed up by going over the green and 3 putting. The 3rd was 2 lost balls. The 5th was due to a tee shot right onto the other fairway and the getting stuck in the trees. (I forgot that we let a pair of golfers through on this hole and one of them messed up big time.. that they were slower than us...). On the 9th it was a 3 putt that cost me. On the 10th I did a zig zag down the fairway and end with a duff before the green. The 18th was described earlier. So my score was over 110 but could have easily been 7 better on a different day. I should be pleased to get over the 16th and 17th with no mishaps!

Before the par 3 .. look at the weather

Ghostly shadow around the winner!

It was nice day!

The end of the round