An Historic weekend for SWGC

This weekend saw a team from South Winchester represent the club in the Kindred Cup Finals day, the first time in the Cup’s 30 year history.

First played for in 1989 following an idea by the late Stan and Mary Hancock this inter-club competition has proved to be extremely popular. Designed to promote and encourage foursomes golf with the prime objective of furthering friendship and camaraderie between kindred clubs in Hampshire.

The team’s combined handicap must be no lower than 90 to avoid teams loading with scratch golfers. Our team of 10 (5 pairs) descended on Lee-on-the-Solent for an early start in the first semi-final against Bognor Regis, it was tense and tight match with most games going to the 18^th and at 2 apiece, all rested on the deciding match which went to the 20^th hole ! Unfortunately we just missed out …. Oh what might have been !

It was particularly pleasing to see a number of members of SWGC supporting from the side-lines thank you to Mr & Mrs Neilson, Mr & Mrs Crowther, Robbie & Rachel , they continued their support in the bar after and the mood was lightened as I was directed by one of the supporters to the “Losers Bar”….

As one colourful Winchester character (see picture for clues as to who) remarked “ It’s lovely to see, shows the spirit of camaraderie at South !” and he’s not wrong.

After a light lunch and some liquid refreshment we headed out to play in the 3^rd /4^th play off, the match no-one wants to be involved in, and we ran out gallant runners up 3.5 -1.5. This was followed by a delicious 3 course meal and the presentations.

So not the successful day we had hoped for but we were there and I for one am very proud of the following SWGC members who gave up their time to support the club and get us there….. maybe next year Mr Parrett can go one better, very best of luck.

My heartfelt thanks to :

MARK NEILSON

PAUL KILLE

NEAL APPS

DAVE ATTON

MIKE SANDBROOK

MIKE PARTON

PAUL FENNER

ALAN MCEWAN

STEVE PARRETT

MALCOLM BERRYMAN

MIKE WOODHEAD