OBGS - Heads Cup 2023

The Heads Cup, Cradoc Golf Club, Friday 23rd June 2023

After a slightly drizzly start to the day, it brightened up to show off Bannau Brycheiniog (a.k.a. the Brecon Beacons) in all their stunning, imposing beauty in glorious sunshine.

Pre-golf coffee and bacon rolls saw lively, boisterous re-unions and introductions between old friends, regular and new OB golfers; a happy surprise appearance; a welcome addition of a parent of a current pupil and the mischievous presence of an Old Llandoverian.

The attendees were: Peter Owen, Hugh Phillips, Mike Muir, Robert Hughes, Gwyn Jones, Nigel Jones, Jonathan Spencer, Charles Raw-Rees, Peter Knill, Robert Calcaterra, Martin Like, Kevin Noble, Des Lally, Rhodri O'Reilly, Dylan Raw-Rees (O. Ll,) and Dudley Joseph (parent). It was also great to see James Davenport, even though he couldn’t play due to injury. 

Very sadly, Mark Wilson was unable to attend due to the passing of his father. All our condolences and thoughts are with Mark, Ian and their family.

The course was in good condition, and, with the earlier drizzle dried off by bright sunshine and steady breeze, playing nicely with running fairways and true greens. This was reflected in the scoring; the lowest scores being comfortably in the mid-to-high twenty points, and most making thirty points plus.

As a result, a happy buzz and an air of respectful, cordial banter greeted the Head when he arrived to present the cup; to which he was also subjected and, graciously, gave as good as he got.

The scoring at the top of the standings was competitive; with 35 points only being good enough for third place and Cup holder, Rob Calcaterra, pipped Jonathan Spencer on countback. A great round by Gwyn Jones, scoring 39 points, secured him second place. The winner played outstanding golf, off a recently reduced 17 handicap, to score 41 points; giving Martin Like consecutive OBGS victories, following on from winning the Spring Cup, paired with Rhodri Parry, and the inaugural Peter Owen Trophy. Martin maintained his usual good grace in victory, even in the face of some uncharitable, albeit tongue-in-cheek, remarks regarding his handicap and the news that, as a member of Cradoc, his card had been submitted for the consideration of the Handicap Committee !!

The next OB golf fixtures are :

Friday 8th September – match v Old Llandoverians at Cradoc Golf Club

Thursday 5th October – Harris Cup at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club

If you would like to play in either or both of these fixtures, please let me know asap -  kev.noble@yahoo.com