24/08/2026
An excellent field of 21 golfers took to the Royal Hopetoun fairways on Saturday to compete in a stableford event for a trophy donated by Tim and Mez Ferguson.
Golfers again enjoyed a course in excellent condition and our thanks go to all those dedicated members putting in the hard yards maintaining the course.
The excellent condition of the course certainly couldn't be blamed for some golfer's scores - 1 battler was observed asking if they were entitled to free relief from a railway line that was impeding their backswing. Said golfer was then seen moping back to the tee when it was pointed out that the fence and road between the fairway and their ball probably meant they were slightly out of bounds.
Leading the pack and yet again giving the handicapper more food for thought was Luke Mitchell with a fine score of 37 points. Since he started gracing the fairways with his presence at the start of the season, Luke has improved out of sight, which is also where his drives consistently seem to be hit.
Good scores meant balls emblazened with the Rays Painting logo went to P Hallam (Parker), P Hallam (Pat), and Tom Huf who each achieved 35 points.
The only nearest the pin for the day went to Leighton Hateley - another golfer who's seen their handicap slashed more than once this season. He was able to knock one close on the tricky 17th hole.
Next Saturday is our official closing day, though this correspondent won't be the only hacker crossing their white-gloved fingers that the recent rain means the course remains open and our events can continue for a few weeks yet. The trophy will be donated by Graeme and Julie Puckle.
- Terry Bullshot
