30 December 2010
With frost and snow covering the course over Christmas there was plenty of time for reminiscing and recalling the activities of 2010 where the group had a super golfing year. Apart from our weekly outings in Tinneranny we had home and away fixtures with Carrick-on-Suir, Waterford and Faithlegg. Many of our players were regular competitors in the Autumn Seniors Alliance in Dungarvan, Carrick-on-Suir, Callan, Gold Coast, Waterford, Clonmel, and of course New Ross. All of us have fond memories of that special outing to the picturesque Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club in September where the welcome and the food served were both par excellence.
What was a fledgling small little group of men aged 55 and over and the brainchild of Kevin Treacy way back in 1996 has now grown to weekly average of over fifty players taking to the fairways every Thursday. In the early days it was easy enough to pick up a prize in the small fields but now a team would want to be scoring very well indeed in order to be in the winner’s enclosure. There is a target score of 90 points which if achieved could get a prize (sometimes). But the one thing that has remained steadfast among the group down the years is the spirit of friendliness and camaraderie for no sooner is one week’s outing over than all are counting down the days until the game next Thursday.
Hopefully this will be on Thursday next the 6 of January with the draw at the usual time of 10-45 A.M sharp. In the meantime here’s wishing all associated with the group a Very Happy and Prosperous New Year.
16 December 2010
“Under starter’s orders”, this was the story on Thursday last when we eventually got going in our Christmas Outing. The starter, Richard Cuddihy, mounted his rostrum and ably assisted by Kevin Treacy raised the white flag at 10-45 sharp and then sent the 14 participating teams to their respective tee off holes. This shotgun start proved to be ideal on day which was not for hanging around with a biting north westerly wind accompanied by showers of sleet for a while. Thankfully it all cleared and all teams were finished in good time being speeded up no doubt by having only one player’s score counting on each hole. Perhaps it was the weather but there were some regular members missing for what undoubtedly is the highlight of our golfing year. Most notable among the absentees was the “History Man” cuddled up no doubt in splendid hibernation somewhere near Campile.
Our competition featured extra prizes and as usual there was a battle royal to get something that would raise the spirits over the festive season. It took a count back to find the winners and here Patsy Farrell (14), Robert O Dwyer (19) and John Fitzpatrick (20) emerged victorious with 49 points. On the same total in second place were Denis Kirwan (12), Tommy Tyler (16) and Larry Shannon (20). A point behind on 48 points in third spot came Jim Meggs (14), Sean Ryan (21) and Ollie Brennan (24). Tony Harford (11), John Murphy (16) and John Joe Murray (19) took fourth place on 47 points. The fifth and last prize on the day went to John Kennedy (15), John F Roche (16) and Willie Naddy (19) who brought in the same score.
Nearest the pin prizes went to Jim Meggs and Patsy Farrell. Player of the Year Awards went to Tony Harford, Luke Power, John Joe Murray and Brian Dolan in the different categories. Provided that the two golfing spoilsports, Mr Jack Frost and Mr White Snow, do not interfere, we will have our usual outing this Thursday Dec 23 with the draw at 10-45 A.M sharp. Then we break with the first outing of 2011 on Thursday the 6 of January.
The Seniors group would like to thank chef, Willie Rochford, and his staff for the excellent piping hot meal they provided to us poor hungry and rather cold souls last Thursday. Also we say thanks to head green keeper, Seamus Power and his course staff for the way they facilitated us during the year and of course to Anthony and George in the bar for their help and co-operation which was much appreciated. We wish a few of our members who have been ill a continued road to full health and hoping that all of you will rejoin us again in The New Year. In the meantime, a Happy and Peaceful Christmas to them and to all of the Thursday group among whom there is an unrivalled spirit of fun and camaraderie which gives us all a lift in these challenging times.
13 December 2010
Maybe it will be third time lucky this Thursday the 16 of December when it hoped to run off our twice postponed Christmas Outing. A blanket of snow lay over the course on the 2 and the 9 making for a lovely festive scene but annoying in that there was no golf playable on either day. Instead we had to make do watching on television the superb displays of Lee Westwood in Sun City and Graeme McDowell at the Sherwood Country Club in America. Lee Westwood showed what a great golfer and competitor he is by reaching nearly all the greens in regulation or a stroke under on many holes. No doubt many more of our ilk will be mulling over and playing in their own minds that superb shot by McDowell over the trees after being in an unplayable lie from his tee shot or the fantastic duo of putts on the 18 green which helped him to ultimate victory over Tiger Woods.
Well, hopefully there will be the chance to try and emulate some of these wonder efforts by our members on Thursday (weather permitting of course) when the draw is at 10-45 a.m. sharp. It is hoped to get all away in a shotgun start so as all participants will be at the same time for the meal at 4-15.
December
A big turnout of fourteen teams got away a little bit belatedly in a shot gun start which was ideal considering the bitterly cold conditions which prevailed last Thursday. When we arrived for the draw it did not look as if play was possible due to the frost lingering on the course. Then the sun began to do its work in thawing out the greens and fairways and head green keeper, Seamus, gave us the green light to go ahead at 11-15. The underfoot conditions were perfect, a tribute to the said Seamus and his staff who do such a terrific job in keeping the course in tip top shape all year round
When we got going the frost had all but disappeared and the sun shone but there was a biting North westerly wind to contend with. Judging distance became a problem when facing into it and club selection was vital when playing a shot into the greens. What was normally a seven iron now became a five in order for the participants shot to reach the dance floor. The target team score of 90 was in grave danger of not being reached and that turned out to be the case.
Making a valiant effort to reach that figure the winning team fell just one short with a very creditable 89 points considering the conditions. Turning with 46 the team of Pat Traynor (17), Tom O Neill (18), John Walker (19) and Colin Casey (19) added 43 points on the back nine to just hold on in a tight finish. A three man team consisting of Jim Meggs (14), John Joe Cullen (15) and Luke Power (17) getting the normal bonus of an extra 6 points were pipped at the post, their tally being 88 points. On 87 and claiming third place on a count back came Johnny Watson (15), John Murphy (16), Pat Ryan (17) and Frank Boyle (21). The fourth prize was captured by Kevin Treacy (15), Willie Whitty (15), Michael Vaughan (21) and Tom O Shea (21). Nearest the pin prizes went to Patsy Farrell and Willie Whitty on the 9 and 11 holes respectively.
Next Thursday provided the weather is agreeable we have our Christmas Outing and Dinner and the presentation of yearly prizes. All members are asked to please note that the draw is at 10-45 am sharp. Your co-operation to be on time is vital as we hope to have a shotgun start so that all teams will be finished and ready for the meal which is at 4-15 pm. Entry fee for the day to include both golf entry and meal is €20. In the event of a postponement the said Christmas Outing will be held on Thursday the 9 of December.
Sincere sympathy goes from all members of the Seniors group to our esteemed colleague, Michael Martin, on the recent death of his sister who died in Cappoquin, Co Waterford.
11 Nov 2010
“When the going gets tough, the tough get going”, this old proverb was borne out to the hilt last Thursday when 13 hardy teams took to the fairways in anything but ideal conditions. The gale force wind was howling in the trees and the black clouds hovered menacingly overhead with heavy rain imminent. But it did not come as a magnificent rainbow straddled the confluences of the Nore and Barrow rivers below Tinneranny where these two great rivers merge to continue as one in their never ending journey to the sea. There was no pot of gold visible at the rainbow’s end but one Senior team did capture bottles of gold, not the solid kind, but the liquid stuff, (Paddy Whiskey), as they defied the elements to bring in a fantastic winning score considering the conditions.
They say a good start is half the battle, and never was this saying more truthful as this all conquering quartet racked up an astonishing 20 points on the first three holes and then turned after nine with an incredible 51 points. This was achieved with two scores counting on each hole so it really was terrific golf in the westerly gales which battered the course. The back nine was tougher, but still Tony Harford (11), Tom O Neill (18), John Joe Murray (19) and John Fitzpatrick (20) added another 43 points which gave them the day’s spoils with 94 points. They were closely followed home in second place on 92 by Johnny Hosey (10), Jim Ryan (15), Larry Doyle (18) and Aidan O Connor (20). Third spot was filled by Denis Kirwan (12), Dan Quigley (16), Mick Wade (19) and Frank Boyle (21) whose 91 was good enough to claim the balls. Nearest the pin prizes went to Colin Casey and Johnny Hosey respectively.
Next Thursday, November 18 is the last Seniors Open Singles competition sponsored by the club and the time sheet is on the computer. Our Christmas Outing has been provisionally planned for the 2 of December (weather permitting).
28 October 2010
What a change a few days can make in the weather at this time of year. Last week we were playing in ideal golfing conditions where the sun shone accompanied by a light breeze. Roll on to last Thursday when the wind was howling high in the trees and good golf became a lottery at times. Thankfully the rain held off but the usual high scoring amongst the group was not in evidence this time mainly due to the prevailing conditions. Often what looked like good approach shots went tailing away from their intended target being caught in that south westerly gale.
Still it was as good for the goose as it was for the gander and any team coming in with a score around the mid eighties should be in the winners enclosure. This forecast proved to quite accurate as the team of John Kennedy (15), Pat Traynor (17), Aidan O Connor (20) and Tom Kent (20) took top spot with 85 points. There was a tie for second place but a better back nine gave the honours to Kevin Treacy (15), Michael Brennan(18), Fr Philip Kelly(19) and J.J.Murray (19), whose 82 points pipped Dick Cuddihy (10), Tony Wallace(17), Larry Doyle (19), and Sean Ryan (21), also scoring 82, at the post. It was a good day at the office or to more precise on the golf course for Pat Traynor. The affable Dubliner not alone figured on the winning team but also took nearest the pin prizes both on the 9 and the 11 holes. Would all members please note that the draw for teams takes place each Thursday at 10-45 AM sharp and you must be there in person prior to that time to be included in the draw. No phone calls saying you are on your way accepted in future anymore.
In the recent Club Open Seniors where as usual we put up some separate prizes for our own members the results are as follows. Cat 1, 1, Tony Harford, 2, Paddy Hayles, Cat 2, 1 Johnny Watson, 2, John Murphy, Cat 3, 1, John Joe Murray, 2, Michael Wade, Cat 4, 1, Aidan O Connor, 2, Larry Shannon.
21 October 2010
We had a most pleasant outing to the superb Faithlegg Golf Club last Tuesday where over 50 of our group joined with the local seniors for a terrific day’s golf. A shotgun start meant that there was no waiting around and there were teams on all 18 tee boxes with all away at 10-15 sharp.
As usual with the seniors teams there was only a shot or two between most of them and in fact here we had a dead heat for first and second prizes. A better back nine and a final score of 89 points saw Michael Foley (4), (Faithlegg), Denis Kirwan (12) John Joe Murray (19) and Sean Ryan(21) take home the “Juice of the Barley” or in other words the Paddy whiskey. In second place and securing the coveted Pro VI golf balls were Dudley Higgins (14), (Faithlegg), Tommy Tyler (16), Mick Wade (19) and Jamesie Murphy (22) also on 89 points.
Our 50 strong travelling group, were warmly welcomed by the Faithlegg captain, Arthur Dagg, and his fellow members. Denis Kirwan on behalf of the New Ross seniors in a few well chosen words thanked Faithlegg for their friendliness and hospitality and said we all enjoyed what was a splendid day’s golf in scenic surroundings. A big thank you also goes to our own Kevin Treacy who organised the event in company with Arthur Dagg, Robert Hill and Matt Kennelly from Faithlegg.
We are back on terra firma in Tinneranny this Thursday the 28 of October with the draw at the usual time of 10-45 AM sharp.
14 October 2010
We had a record number of teams taking to the fairways last Thursday boosted by the inclusion of three newcomers to the group in the persons of Peter Goggin, Tony Redmond, and Eddie Morrissey who were made most welcome by all. Seventeen teams battled it out in nigh perfect golfing conditions which were unbelievable for the time of year. With our renowned greens back to their tantalising best after the recent coring of them it was here that the game was won and lost. Many tales of missed putts both long and short reverberated around the clubhouse afterwards and it must be said that the stories came from both winners and losers. It was the old saying of the great American golfer, Sam Snead, who once famously said, “You drive for show but you putt for dough”, and this assertion was brought home to roost here especially by the winning quartet who missed very little on the greens.
With three points to spare Jim Ryan (15), Richie Aylward (16), Paddy Browne (23) and the inimitable Brian Dolan (23) were the victors on 92 points. The runners up on a count back were Jim Meggs (14), John F Roche (16), John Joe Murray (19) and Mick Somers (22) from third placed John Kennedy (14), John Harrington (19), Paul Laffan (21) and Mick Martin (27) both teams with 89 points on the card.
Nearest the pin on the 9 and 11 holes were Fr John French and Michael Long. Best wishes for a speedy recovery go to our colleague, Hughie O Connor, whom we were delighted to see out again after his recent operation and joining us in the clubhouse for the light refreshments.
7 October 2010
When we arrived for our weekly outing on Thursday morning last we were shocked to find that there had been a break in and robbery at the club the night before. With the main building being subjected to Garda investigation we had to find a temporary office in which to take names and formulate teams. Our very helpful man in the Pro Shop, Paul Morris, very kindly obliged and it was business as usual there. Great credit goes to the official starter, Dick Cuddihy, who under severe pressure astutely got 15 four person teams out on the course in record time through a shotgun start with no delays whatsoever.
As usual the battle for the prizes was competitive despite a strengthening south east wind which made conditions that bit more difficult for everyone. But sometimes like a horse race there was a runaway winner or winners as Aidan Kent (12), Luke Power (17), Bill Naddy (19), and Mick Wade (19) came home with an unbeatable 95 points. In second place on a count back with 85 points were Denis Kirwan (12), Sean O hUginn (16), Dan Quigley (16), and Kieran O Grady (18). Taking the third spot on the same score of 85 points we had the team of Dick Cuddihy (10), Noel Anderson (17), John Fitzpatrick (2o), and Jamesie Murphy (22). Nearest the pin prizes went to Mick Martin (9) and Mick Wade (11).
We have a total of 50 names scheduled to travel to Faithlegg on our annual outing next Tuesday the 19 of October. A time sheet will be in operation and same will be available to view this Thursday at our home outing. Anyone who has to cry off please contact Kevin Treacy 051-421442 or Jamesie Murphy 051-421151 in order not to upset the smooth running of the competition.
All members extend their deepest sympathy to our esteemed colleagues, Willie Byrne, Colin Casey, and Martin Forristal all of whom suffered sad family bereavements in the past few weeks.
30 Sept
A massive assembly of seventeen four person teams took to the fairways last Thursday when the rain just held off except for all the late starters. The numbers were boosted by our friends from the Seanoiri members of Waterford Golf Club which club incidentally we have had a home and away annual friendly game since way back in the mid nineties. Maybe on Thursday it was local knowledge of our superb course or perhaps good golf but all the prizes on offer went to the home contingent.
Clear winners on the day were the team of Noel Kehoe (16), Sean O hUginn (16), Luke Power (17), Tommy Grennan (21) with 93 points. In second place on a count back with 89 points came Denis Kirwan (10), John Watson (16), John Joe Murray (19) and Seamus Wall (19). On the same score in third spot were Tony Harford (12), Noel Anderson (17), Tom Murphy (17) and Ollie Brennan (22). A fourth prize was on offer on the day and Jim Meggs (14), Fr Ger O Brien (15), John Harrington (18), and Michael Vaughan (21) were the recipients also recording 89 points.
The diary for October reads as follows, Thursday Oct 7th usual Home Outing with draw at 10-45 am sharp, Thursday October 14th it is the same fixture on our home course. On Tuesday the 19th we travel to Faithlegge Golf Club for our annual friendly fixture with the home club, we will take the names of those wishing to travel this Thursday. On the 21st it is Open Seniors day in New Ross and we round off the month with our usual game on Thursday the 28th of October.
23 Sept
Many years ago the Morris Motor Company claimed in an advertisement that their 8 horse power car equalled any rival ten horse power vehicle. Well, in our Seniors outing on Thursday last the mind wandered back again to that particular ad when a three man team proved superior against all the four person squads. Jimmy Meggs (14), Jim Ryan (15) and Richie Aylward (16) brought in a winning total of 95 points. The trio hailed from Dublin, Wexford and Kilkenny respectively although the first mentioned is now more a “Cat” than a “Dub” due to his long term among us. In second place on a count back came John Roche (13), Fr Ger O Brien (15), John Fitzpatrick (20) and George Peters (21) with 92 points. Third position also on 92 points was filled by Eddie Keher (9), Fr John French (17), Bill Naddy (19) and Richie Byrne (22).
Nearest the pin prizes went to Tommy Tyler and John Roche (incidentally a proud Corkonian on a high after his native county welcomed home Sam Maguire after a long absence).
This Thursday Sept 30th we have an early start when we welcome our counterparts from Waterford. The draw is at 9-45 am sharp and all players are asked to be on time as there is a big Society group booked on the first tee at 12 noon.
All members extend their deepest sympathy to our popular colleague, Fr Jim Curtis, on the recent death of his brother who died in Wexford.
19th Sept
A number of our members took part in the final Autumn Seniors Open Alliance in Clonmel yesterday Monday the 20th. All were impressed with the new layout of this picturesque but testing course in the mountains above Clonmel.
It’s all hands on deck at home or to be more precise on the first tee this Thursday the 23rd of September. Normal service resumes and all of us senior players are eagerly looking forward to renewing old acquaintances, with some of these gentlemen returning from far off exotic places. The draw time for teams is at 10-45 am sharp so please don’t be late as it upsets the running of the competition.
26 August
In accordance with the usual practice of sponsoring prizes for our own members taking part in other competitions we have the results from recent weeks. The winners from the Open Seniors were, Cat 1, Aidan Kent and Tony Harford, Cat 2, Fr Ger O Brien and John Joe Cullen, Cat 3, Tom Murphy and Noel Anderson, Cat 4, Larry Doyle and Oliver Brennan. The Community Hospital Charity day prizes went to, Cat 1,Willie Byrne and Tony Harford, Cat 2, Tom Murphy and Pat Riordan, Cat 3, Pat Ryan and John Harrington, Cat 4, Richard Cahill and Michael Somers.
On Thursday the 9th of September New Ross course is closed for maintenance and we have a big group going to the Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club. There is a time sheet in operation and it is imperative that everyone is on time with special green fee (€35) and registration is at 12-30 sharp. The following are our drawn teams and times.
1 pm, J Kennedy, L Power, P Ryan, R Goodwin
1-08, T Harford, K O Grady, M Long, W Naddy
1-16, Fr J French, T Kent, L Doyle, T O Neill
1-24, J Watson, G Peters, J.J.Murray, M Vaughan,
1-32, R Cuddihy, N Anderson, R Cahill, J Murphy
1-40, H O Connor, D Quigley, P Laffan, R Byrne
1-48, W Byrne, L Shannon, M Martin, W Rochford
1-56, R O Dwyer, T Grennan, J Wallace, A O Connor
2-04, Fr P Kelly, P Traynor, T Wallace, M Wade
2-12, J Ryan (Ross), T Tyler, S Ryan, F Boyle
2-20, John Roche, T O Shea, J.F Roche, B Hennessy
2-28, T Murphy, J Kehoe, J Harrington, E Kehoe
19 August
The second last Autumn Seniors Alliance of the season takes place in New Ross on Thursday the 2nd of September with the first tee reserved from 9.00am to 2.00pm. It is expected that there will be a large number of competitors from the affiliated clubs of Carrick-on-Suir, Clonmel, Dungarvan, Callan, New Ross, Gold Coast, and Waterford. These are the tee times allocated to our group.
9 AM, T Harford, O Brennan, J Kennedy R Goodwin
9-08, H O Connor, D Quigley, P Traynor, M Brennan
9-16, R Cuddihy, M Long, T Kent, J Fitzpatrick
9-23, N Anderson, P Hayles, S Ryan, F Boyle
9-30, W Byrne, M Martin, J Ryan, R Cahill
9-38, J Watson, G Peters, J.J Murray, L Power
9-46, T Grennan, R O Dwyer, R Opperman, P Laffan
9-54, D Kirwan, J Meggs, B Dolan, John Murphy
Anyone else who wishes to play contact Jamesie Murphy (051-421151) who has the master timesheet and you will be facilitated with a tee time. The teams and tee times for Bunclody on the 9th of September will appear next week.
12 August
We had another big crowd on Thursday last but with a lot of green fees on the course it took much longer than usual for the 15 teams to complete their round. Four and a half hours is unheard of among our group and it was indeed hard to concentrate with the hold up on almost every hole. The course once again was in magnificent condition and is really a credit to the ground staff for all their dedicated work in maintaining such a high standard right throughout the year. Once again the super fast greens was where the game was won and lost with putts agonisingly drifting past the cup and often the one back too failed to go in.
If any team broke 90 they were going to be at least in the first three and compiling a very good score of 92 points, Richie Aylward (15) Michael Long (20), John Fitzpatrick (20) and Larry Shannon (20) (he had the name of Shanahan on the day) took home the “Paddy”. In the runner up spot on 89 points came Jim Meggs (14), Jim Ryan (15) Tom O Shea (20) and Tom Kent (21). Only a point further back, filling the third spot on 88 points, were the team of Hughie O Connor (15), Johnny Watson (16), Larry Doyle (19) and John Joe Murray (19). Nearest the pin prizes went to Jim Meggs-two feet from the pin on the 9 hole and Jim “Dublin” Ryan on the 14 where he left his tee shot a mere 15 inches short. Glad to report that both players duly sank the resulting putts for birdies and they well deserved the sleeves of Titleist balls.
This coming Thursday August 19 we have no team outing as the Club Open Singles is on. We face further disruption on Thursday the 26 when the Ladies Section have organised a Charity Day in aid of the Community Hospital (not the Community Workshop as mentioned last week) 34 of our members have already signalled their intention to play in Bunclody on the 9 of September when the New Ross course is closed for coring of the greens. This will be a special outing with prizes for the first six teams home on the day. Anyone else interested in travelling please contact Jamesie Murphy on 051-421151 as soon as possible in order to be included in the draw for teams.
5 August
Once again the weather was kind to us last Thursday when 58 sprightly veterans took to the fairways in search of the elusive prizes. We had 13 four person teams and two three man teams who got the normal six points extra added to their final tally. The weather was perfect for golf, with the course in immaculate condition and with the lightning fast greens proving once again to be the best around, compiling a winning score was not easy.
In the end a three person team consisting of John Kennedy (15), Fr Ger O Brien (16) and John Monahan (18) took the honours with a winning total of 92 points which was made up of their actual score of 86 plus the added bonus of six points. A point behind in number two spot came Tommy Tyler (16), Johnny Watson (16), Luke Power (18) and Larry Doyle (19) on 91 points. Third position with 88 points went to Denis Kirwan (11), Kieran O Grady (18) Jamesie Murphy (21) and Sean Ryan (21).
On the 9th hole nearest the pin prize went to Fr Ger O Brien, seven feet two inches from the pin. Then on the signature 11th hole measuring 173 metres where three putting is often the norm, Denis Kirwan hit a shot that Padraig Harrington or indeed Tiger Woods (that’s when he was playing good golf) would be immensely proud of. His seven iron tee shot was right over the flag, in fact the ball hit the pin and came to rest 31 inches from the hole. (No, he didn’t miss the putt-he rattled the ball in for a birdie). It is normal draw time at 10-45 AM sharp this coming Thursday, 12th of August.
On Tuesday the 3rd of August we had a very pleasant outing at Gowran Park where 33 New Ross members travelled to this picturesque golf course. With the two best cards out of three to count the team of John F Roche, Tony Harford and George Peters came home in the number one spot with 74 points. In second place on 73 points were Kevin Treacy, Aidan O Connor and Pat Phelan. There was a tie for third between Hughie O Connor, Larry Shannon and Paul Laffan and a team consisting of John Murphy, Luke Power and Ron Goodwin. Well done to Willie Byrne who was a prize winner in the Gowran Open Singles competition in which all our members took part as well.
August/September Diary: Thursday August 12th Usual Home Outing, Thursday August 19th, Open Senior Singles, August 26th, Community Workshop Charity Day (Singles), September 2nd, Senior Alliance Singles. September 9th New Ross Outing to Bunclody, September 16th, Open Senior Singles, September 20th, Senior Alliance Outing Clonmel, September 23rd Normal Outing at home.
29 July
It was perfect golfing weather last Thursday when our group resumed activities as a unit after the singles events of the last two weeks. There is no doubt that the four person team is the favoured format of the majority of our members and this was strongly emphasised in the fact that twelve teams teed off in search of the elusive prizes. Once again the fairness of our draw system meant that there was only a stroke of a ball or a missed putt between the first three teams home.
With lightning fast greens to contend with scoring was not as high as usual as many would be contenders came to grief on the super putting surfaces even though often many players were on the “Dance Floor” in regulation but where three putting became the norm of the day. Keeping their game well together the quartet of Tony Harford (11) Johnny Fleming (20) Michael Somers (22) and Paddy Browne (22) brought in the winning score of 90 points. Just a point behind on 89 came Jim Ryan (Ross) (15) Johnny Watson (16) Mick Wade (20) and Bernie Brookwell. The third spot was filled by Hughie O Connor (15) Noel Anderson (18) Colin Casey (19) and Tommy Grennan (21). Luke Power and Kieran O Grady took the nearest the pin prizes on the two nominated Par 3’s.
In the Open Seniors Singles Competition played on the 15th of July we sponsored first and second prizes for all four categories. In Category One the winner was Tony Harford with Eddie Keher in second place. John Murphy took first place in Cat 2 with Reiner Opperman in the runner up spot. The Cat 3 winner was Paddy Bennett from Tommy Tyler who finished second and Seamus Wall took top spot in Cat 4 from Larry Shannon.
Then in the Meals on Wheels Charity Day on Thursday July 22nd we again provided prizes for our members taking part with the two best cards from each three man team to count and where there was plenty of controversy before and after when the results were announced by Fear An Tighe, Mr Kevin Treacy, who it must be said scrutinised all the cards and the computer print outs fairly and with meticulous care. Here, with 78 points, Jim Ryan (39), Mick Martin also with (39) claimed first with the third team member, Willie Whitty disqualified apparently for a wrong handicap on his card. Sixty nine was good enough for second where a brilliant 42 points by Brian Dolan aided and abetted by Tony Harford and George Peters both of whom shot 27 saw them finish in second spot as a result of further disqualifications. Also on 69 were Willie Byrne (37) and Johnny Fleming with 32 where third team member, Reiner Opperman, was disqualified. John Joe Murray 36 and Johnny Watson 33 did the business in third place where Michael Long was disqualified for the same reason as the two players previously mentioned-wrong handicap on score card. It is normal draw time on this Thursday the 5th of August at 10-45 AM and the Senior Alliance outing is at the Gold Coast in Dungarvan on Wednesday the 11th. There are only a couple of spaces left on the time sheet which is with Jamesie Murphy on 051-421151 so make contact as soon as possible.
15 July
This Thursday, July 22, we have three person teams taking part in the Meals on Wheels event. The best two cards will be used in determining the winners of our own competition among the group. We resume as normal with our weekly outing next week with the draw at 10-45 AM sharp.
Well done to our colleagues John Murphy and Tommy Grennan both of whom figured amongst the prize winners in the recent Seniors Alliance played at Callan Golf Club. Next Alliance outing is at the Gold Coast Dungarvan on Wednesday August 12.
The sincere sympathy of all members go to our ever helpful bar man, Anthony Connick, on the recent sad death of his brother at the young age of 34 years.
8 July
We were blessed with the weather on Thursday last when all teams were on the home stretch before the rains came pelting down. The starters did a great job in getting the 14 teams away on time in view of what turned out to be a very accurate weather forecast. As per norm there was no slow play and this added to the enjoyment of the game which is eagerly looked forward to each week by our ever increasing numbers taking part. With the designated hole being the 14-Par 3 where all four team members were to register scores were crucial here in the destination of the spoils.
Gelling well the team of Paddy Hayles (14), Dan Quigley (16), Pat Phelan (17), and Dick Cahill (20) shot a fine 94 points to emerge winners. Newcomer to our group, Pat Phelan, certainly got his baptism of fire in this hotly contested weekly event where a single missed putt can mean the difference between victory and defeat. Pipped at the post were second placed Willie Byrne (12), Reiner Opperman (19), Ron Goodwin (20) and Aidan O Connor (20) with 93 points. The third spot went to Richie Aylward (15), John Roche (16), Mick Wade (20) and Mick Martin (28) whose 92 prevailed after a count back on the last nine holes. The nearest the pin prizes were won by Dr Martin Burke and Aidan O Connor on the ninth and eleventh holes respectively.
This Thursday we have no outing due to the Club Open Senior Singles and on the 22 the teams have been drawn for the Meals on Wheels competition and can be viewed on the website. Our annual visit to Gowran Park will take place on Tuesday the 3 of August and names will be taken shortly for those interested in travelling.
1 July
With the rain clearing away and leaving a dry but windy day 13 teams ventured out in our weekly competition. The rather strong south easterly wind was of no help on most holes and it made high scores rather difficult to achieve. This was evidenced in the final tallies where only one group broke the magical figure of 90.
With all four scores counting on the 18th this was where the game was won and lost. The winning quartet of Paddy Shannon (9), Michael Long (19), Mick Wade (20) and Ron Goodwin also playing off 20 shot a fine combined total of eight points on this hole to put clear daylight between them and the rest of the field. Their score card showed a grand total of 93 points-enough to claim first prize. The second spot was filled by a three man team consisting of John Kennedy (15), John Watson (16) and Michael Brennan (18) who with all the allowances for only having three players brought in 90 points. A point behind on 89 were third placed Paddy Hayles (14) John Murphy (16), Pat Ryan (18) and Seamus Wall (20). Nearest the pin prize winners were Dick Cahill and Pat Ryan
A slight change has been made in the allowances regarding a situation where all four players are to count on any nominated hole. In future one third of the combined scores of the trio will be added to their total plus the normal six points given at draw time.
Next Thursday at 10-30 approx before our weekly one we will have the draw for three person senior teams taking part in the Meals on Wheels Singles on July 22nd. Therefore all competitors have a double chance of a prize on that day be it team or singles. Make sure your name is in for this very worthwhile charity outing. The timesheet for the Alliance Outing in Callan next Monday July 12th is full but if anyone else would like to go contact Jamesie Murphy on 051-421151 and you will be accommodated.
24 June
The group were very busy recently with outings at home and away. Our social visit to Waterford was a great success when we teamed up with our counterparts there in a friendly three person team event. The team of John Kennedy (N/R), George Douglas and Richard Kearney both of Waterford GC took the top prize. Placed second were Dan Dawson of Waterford with partners Pat Traynor and Aidan O Connor from New Ross. In third place were Dick Cahill and Jamesie Murphy (N/R) accompanied by Kieran Curley of the home club.
During New Ross Open Week we held a three person scramble where Paddy Shannon, Dixie Connell and John Fitzpatrick emerged victorious with a nett 63.4. The second spot was filled by Aidan Kent, Sean Ryan and Larry Shannon whose 63.9 was good enough to pip Tom O Neill, Jim “Dublin” Ryan and Willie Naddy’s 64.5.
17 June
It was a busy week for our group commencing with our Annual Social visit to our counterparts in Waterford Golf Club on Monday. A big number travelled down and all were impressed by the courtesy and hospitality given to us by the local senior players. A mixed three person team was the format for the day and they all enjoyed playing on a course in excellent condition. Competition as always was keen and in the end the team of George Douglas (W), John Kennedy (N/R) and Richard Kearney (W) took first prize. In second place were Dan Dawson (W) with Pat Traynor and Aidan O Connor both of New Ross. The third spot was filled by Kieran Curley (W) with his New Ross playing partners Dick Cahill and Jamesie Murphy.
Then on Thursday we had a three person scramble at home where Paddy Shannon, John Fitzpatrick and Dixie Connell were the winners with a nett score of 63.4. Aidan Kent, Sean Ryan and Larry Shannon finished second on 63.9. Third prize went to Jim Ryan (Dublin), Tom O Neill and Willie Naddy who carded a nett 64.5.
A big contingent travelled to Carrick-on-Suir on Monday for the Open Seniors Alliance where again conditions both weather wise and course wise could not be bettered. This Thursday we have our normal outing with the draw at 10-45 AM sharp. All members send their best wishes for a speedy recovery to colleague, Godfrey Hill, who is at present hospitalised following an operation.
10 June
The course was in superb condition and there was great anticipation of high scoring being needed to win the competition on Thursday last. It didn’t turn out that way however as a brisk north easterly wind facing directly into the player’s faces on many of the holes kept the tallies down and the target figure of 90 points was not achieved on this occasion. Nevertheless as usual it was a tight finish between the top three teams out of a starting group of 14 and only a single point separated them at line or to be more precise at the finish on the 18 hole.
Here the team of Tony Harford (11), Pat Riordan (15), John Joe Murray (20) and Aidan O Connor (20) took the spoils with 88 points. In second place just a point behind on 87 came the quartet of Pat Traynor (17), Mick Wade (20), Tom Kent (20), and Tommy Grennan (20). Finishing third a further point back were John Kennedy (15), Reiner Opperman (19), Tom O Shea (20) and Mick Martin (28). Nearest the pin prizes on the 9 and the 11 holes went to Tony Harford and Jamesie Murphy respectively.
This coming Thursday June 17 we will play in the Open Week three person scramble and our teams have been drawn and are on the timesheet in the club. We hope that no mystery man will make it onto the timesheet like last week or John M will have another sleepless night thinking about it.
3 June
Thirteen four man teams took to the field in search of the elusive “Uisce Beatha” last Thursday. Scoring was not that easy with a stiff south easterly breeze blowing and lightning fast greens to contend with. But going right away from the bunch one group emerged as clear winners in the end where all scores counting on the 18 certainly shook things up a bit. Taking home the “Paddy” whiskey were, Hughie O Connor (14), John Roche (16), Dixie Connell (18), & Seamus Wall (21) with a terrific score of 95 points. It took a count back to decide second and third where a better back nine gave the spoils on 92 points to Denis Kirwan (10), Sean O hUiginn (16), John Joe Murray (20 and John Stafford (22). In third place on the same score came Tony Harford (11), John Murphy (17), John Fleming (20) and Aidan O Connor (20). Nearest the pin prizes went to Dick Cahill and Denis Kirwan.
Our up to date diary for the remainder of June is as follows,
Thursday June 10, Normal Draw at 10-45 am sharp. Monday June 14, Annual Social Visit to Waterford Golf Club from 10 am onwards with Waterford Seanoiri, Thursday June 17, Three Person Scramble New Ross Golf Club-our teams drawn and on line. Monday June 21 Senior Alliance at Carrick-on-Suir time sheet is with Jamesie Murphy on 051-421151. June 24-normal outing is at home.
28 May
Having missed the last two Thursday’s due to the Rower/Inistioge Classic and the Club Open Senior Singles its back to basics this Thursday for our group. All players are eagerly looking forward to resuming our regular four man team event as this is the format most favoured and enjoyed by our members. As usual the draw for teams takes place at 10-45 AM sharp.
We had a very pleasant friendly outing to Carrick-on-Suir recently where we mixed with the locals and other visitors from Waterford Golf Club. The course was in magnificent condition with lush growth on the fairways and smooth greens which made it very easy to play to one’s potential. It was a good day for Jimmy Ryan and Tom Kent who finished first and second in the fourball competition where instead of playing off three quarter handicaps all players played off their full current GUI handicaps. We had a good representation in last Monday’s Senior Alliance in Waterford, again where course was in superb condition after their Open Scratch Cup at the weekend. Next Alliance is scheduled for Carrick-on-Suir on the 21 of June.
14 May
This Thursday, May 20, is Open Senior Singles sponsored by the Club so we have no outing of our own. We will resume next Thursday May 27 with the draw at the usual time of 10-45 AM sharp. Meanwhile we have the Seniors Alliance in Waterford Golf Club on Monday the 24 and these are our allotted tee times.
10-04, T Harford, John Murphy, D Kirwan, M Long
10-12, T Kent, James Murphy, R Cuddihy, N Anderson
11-16, S Ryan, F Boyle, R Cahill, P Laffan
13-53, M Martin, W Byrne, J Ryan, A O Connor,
14-41, P Ryan, R Opperman, J.J.Murray, J Watson
15-13, G Peters, T Grennan, H O Connor, L Shannon
Due to the restrictive times available at Waterford it is imperative that you are on time for your tee-off, there will be no hope of you playing outside of that.
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