OLD DOVORIAN GOLFING SOCIETY CAPTAIN’S REPORT 2023

In this my inaugural year as Captain, we have again been privileged to play some excellent golf courses around Kent & Surrey, many of which are jointly organised with Old St Lawrencians.

Jack Fuller was in stunning form this year not only winning the OL Summer Invitational, at Redlibbets GC, after having the longest drive from Belgium, he also scored an amazing 41 points, to secure the prestigious OD John Turnpenny Jug. Jack continued his fine form at Knole Park GC, to win the Dawes Cup with a tremendous score of 33 points given the conditions.  Other Notable achievements during the year have been Patrick King’s 27 points at West Hill Golf club, and Charlie Scott winning the Old Dovorian Invitation event at Tandridge for the third time.

Finally, Michael Tubman’s masterclass at Hever Castle GC to secure the President’s Cup with 32 points (to yet another Tubman; Nigel having won it in 2021!).

Sadly, my hopes of decent scores this year were dashed by the many water hazards & bunkers. (Only softened by the fact that I found more balls than I lost).

The top golfer of the year to win the Bruce Johnston Salver was Tony Robin, pipping Charlie Scott by one point.

Regrettably in our 2 triangular events with Old Kings Canterbury & Old St Lawrence at The Addington (Croydon), and the other with Old Honitonians & Old Eastbournians at West Surrey (Godalming) we came a strong third! More significantly however was the opportunity to be re-acquainted with old friends.

One of the year’s highlights was our golf fun day with the College jointly organised by Vicky Jones, with everyone mixing in to form teams of 4.

Sadly, after last year’s wonderful sunny weather, we were greeted by dark clouds and a bitterly cold blustery wind which was blamed for diverting over 80% of the drives off the fairway. (the players blanking any thoughts that their technique was a contributing factor for their wayward shot !!).

The results were extremely close with the team of myself, Jack Fuller (again!!) supported by 2 College pupils Oakley and Louis just pipping the team of David Walter, Mark Rumble, Michael Tubman, and the very able young.

College golfer Barnaby Agar playing off 10.8 (whose father was very disappointed that we could not award Barnaby a bottle of wine (instead of the e-gift token).

As a final note we would be delighted to welcome younger OD’s and especially more women ODs to one of our golf days. It does not matter at what level you play as our main priority is a good chat and the succulent food either before or after we play!

Gilbert Thompson

Captain ODGS 2023