Sports

Grafton golf struggle through Covid restrictions

Weekend competitions

Despite the introduction of some rather severe playing conditions due to the COVID-19 problems, a great field of 122 starters took up the challenge in last Saturday’s 18-hole single Stableford, sponsored by Grafton Motor Group. All players were able to handle social distancing requirements as well as the restriction of just two players per group and as a result were able to enjoy their golf as normal.

Aiden Langford (13) enjoyed his golf more than most, leading the field home with a very impressive 42 points to be rewarded with the cash for the overall win, continuing his very good form over recent weeks.  The next best score of 41 was achieved by Ralf Zaffino (15) for which he was awarded the win in B Grade from Derek Latimer (15) with the third best score of the day of 40. 

There were 33 players representing A Grade, the leading score of that group was shared by two players, Trent Dickson (8) and Danny Li (9) both recording 38 points with Trent eventually named as the winner of the grade, Danny settling for the runner-up spot. 

From the total field of 122 starters, 51 of them contested C Grade with John Want (19) the leader of the pack with 39 from Michael Corfe (19) who had to survive a countback to claim r/up spot 37.

In the NTP department, Greg McCaughey (28) was awarded the Pro-pin on the 1st for which he received a new pair of golf shoes. Greg’s tee shot very close, finishing 82cm from the cup. Clint Corbett (9) claimed the 6th (223cm), Aiden Langford (13) winning the 10th (192cm) with Sam Wicks (13) the best on the 17th (221cm.  Pro balls went down to those on 35 points on a c/b.

Next Saturday and for all future events, except advertised Stroke competitions, will be single Stableford until the current COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.

Midweek competition

Last Thursday 75 starters fronted up for the Mark Harvison sponsored Tallowood Challenge, which is played under the Stroke format. 

Competition was very tight at the top with two players Dylan Clifford (14) and Peter Herden (16) completing their rounds with 69 nett.  Following the countback Dylan was declared the winner, receiving a healthy trophy of one dozen golf balls and a golf shirt for his effort.  The 2nd r/up spot went to Joe Fahey (13) a just reward for his score of 70 nett.  Pro balls went down to players with 74 or better.

On the preceding Tuesday, 89 players made the effort to play in the members/veterans competition. The place getters in both the members and veterans competitions were the same with Steven Castle (18) taking both competition with 41 points. A countback was required to sort out the 1st and 2nd r/up spots with Brian Dougherty (18) and Terry Brooks (21) both finishing with 40 points and that was the order they finished in. Pro balls going down to 34 in the members competition and 35 in the veterans competition.

Notice

All intending players are reminded of the COVID-19 restrictions relating to golf. Only two players per group, unless family members, only one player per golf cart. Masks must be worn in all areas of the golf course, (car parks, Pro shop, restrooms etc). Masks not required when playing your round of golf, however masks must be in your possession. Social distancing (1.5 metres) must be observed at all times. These restrictions are imposed by NSW Health, not the Golf Club, who has the responsibility of ensuring all the restrictions are enforced. Should you be unhappy with those restrictions, which is better than no golf, do not blame the Golf Club.

Ray Hopwood