ENGLISH STROKEPLAY 2007-06-27 WHARTON PARK BEWDLEY – known previously as the Patrick Tallack English Classic

I never thought I would be starting to write an article by talking about the weather, but as we travelled to the match on Friday morning for a 12-oclock start it was absolutely tipping down with rain and had been for some days.  Indeed some parts of the country were flooded, as we got nearer someone said they could see a small bit of blue sky ahead, that turned out to be Wharton Park golf course.  We were so lucky with this 2 day tournament, the worst that happened was a little drizzle at the end of each day.

The course was playing very tough on both days and it was noticeable how different it was from last year just by looking at the scores, the best score last year was 61 and the best score this year was 70 the course was playing wet and the rough was tough even though a ball in any bunker could be lifted out for a free drop.

Day 1 saw the best score being returned by a new member John Eakin who scored a 73 with Paul Appleyard 75 and Derek Field with 77.

After the golf it was back to the hotel for dinner, I must say I thought the dinner was very good, the tee times were handed out for day 2 with the leaders going off last. 

Day 2 started and the rain still held off, again every one had buggies and brand new buggies they were too so no break downs this year.  The course was still playing tough but Jay Cookson still posted an early 70 to give him an overall 148 and by the time the last group were in 148 was still the best score, so Jay won on count back with Derek Field coming second with 148, Paul Appleyard came a very good third with 151.

Well done to all the winners.

I would like to thank Angus the pro and all the club members for letting us have the course for 2 days with no charge and one of the members Nick Roff for ball spotting on holes 7 and 13.

I am sure that every body enjoyed the tournament and from my point of view it went with out any hitches.

I would like to congratulate every body who played and thank all the guides, and I look forward to seeing most of you at Patshull Park for the Masters.