PSC Golf from the Tropical Golf Group
Tuesday, May 10, Green Valley – Stableford
We had a small group on this day, although small meant exclusive as the players were able to sit around a couple of tables, and big lists of start times and transport were not required. Plus, it meant one very happy organiser who had a very easy day.
The test was to be Green Valley, a course we had not played for a couple of months and we were all looking forward to our day out. At the course nice and early we were at the start in plenty of time and able to get away. Mind, there was a strong wind about.
Derek Brook (left) with Graham Buckingham.
The first hole is a tough par 4 and today it was into the strong wind. I knew I was going to have a good day when I managed to chip in for a birdie and got away to a flying start. If you do not birdie the first hole you cannot birdie all 18, or so I am told. However, a good start is something I do not usually get, so this was a bonus.
The course overall was in fine condition, especially considering the temperatures of late and the lack of rain. We all found that there was actually grass on most of the fairways and the greens were if anything a bit slow, with too much of a grass covering. But that is a bit picky as they were not too bad. All in all a fine walk around if you were in a cart (the walkers found it very hot, but carts were available).
The scores were quite good and the winner with 39 points, and why not after a great start, was your scribe Derek Brook, back from a long time with no wins. In second was Graham Buckingham with 37 points and in third was Brian Parish with 35.
Friday, May 13, Greenwood – Stableford
This Friday the 13th sixteen dedicated golfers headed out to Greenwood to see who would be hexed and who would rise above superstition and conquer the golf course, or golf curse as the case may be. Hoping to avoid some heat and traffic, we got an early start for the fairly long drive.
Andre Van Dyk (left) with Brian Parish.
Greenwood is a bit of a trek, but some new shortcuts help. However the big question is always was it worth it? The answer is a resounding Yes. First the prices now are probably the best in the area, and to give some help with the heat there is a discount price on carts! Only a few traditional golfers elected to walk, making the round very inexpensive. Second, the course is well named. Greenwood is actually green, and for this time of year that is amazing. Greenwood is a business that gets it right!
On this day we were assigned the A & B courses. Scores at Greenwood are usually pretty good, and today was no exception. It was a real fight to the finish, but when all was sorted Andre Van Dyk (hcp 16) finished first on count back with 40 points. It pays to finish strong! Tying Andre on points was Brian Parish (14), and who would have thought 20 on the back wouldn’t win? Great playing! Daryl Evans (23) and Mashi Kaneta (17) tied just one stroke back with 39 points. Daryl had an amazing back 9 of 24 points to seal that deal. Well played everyone!
Near Pins: Tom Herrington (2), Mike O’Brien, Andre Van Dyk.
