Thurlestone Golf Club

There are no age barriers at Thurlestone Golf Club declares Lincoln Shaw.

At the top of the range, one or two doddery old chaps in their early 99s being out-driven by tiny tots young enough to be their great-grandchildren.

Everyone enjoying it, one hopes, despite the frustration of missed short putts and brand new golf balls finding a watery grave.

Let’s start with the young ones and the junior team, which was in action for the first time this year.

An away match against Staddon Heights in the Devon Junior League.

Ethan Bellamy led the way against a strong seven handicapper and kept the tie close throughout, only to be beaten on the 18th.

Next out was Finn Whelan against an op­ponent off handicsp nine and, in line with his recent match play form, closed out the match with an emphatic five and four victory.

Third out, and making his singles debut in the league, was George Messias against a strong and steady 11 handicapper who George managed to control from the start and won four and three. Charles Evans had to give his opponent sev­en shots but battled well up to the 14th, where he lost five and four.

This left the foursomes pairing of George Holland (8) and Sammy Ingham (25) to decide the fate of the match – while giving nine shots to their opponents.

They went three up in the early stages but were cut back to all square after 15 holes. No problem.

They won their match on the 18th with an impressive drive from Sammy and an equally good approach shot from George which gave them a four and resulted in a concession from their opponents.

All in all, a great 3-2 victory and an impressive start for those jaunty juniors.

Meanwhile, at home, 33 juniors turned out for their first club meeting in a nine-hole competition which produced some excellent performances.

More smiles in the first mixed match of the season, at home to Tav­istock and an excellent 5-3 victory, played in an excellent spirit, I am told, with an excellent meal afterwards.

There were wins for Nick and Jo Crispin, David and Jane Smyth, Alec and Sue Esplin, and Peter and Liz Coates, with halves for Phil and Wendy Laud plus Gra­ham and Linda Cant.

Looking ahead, there are several interesting days to come and still time to enjoy a game of golf and help raise cash for worthy causes.

Kingsbridge Estuary Rotary Club is holding its annual charity day on June 2 with teams of three, men, ladies or mixed, with some ex­cellent prizes and a buffet meal.

Last year’s event raised over £7,000 and, fingers crossed, they hope to match it this year.

Still places available, at £35 a head. For further details ring Bri­an Shepherd on 01548 560552.

Happy to give you a plug Brian and I hope the sun shines for you.