June 2015 PAGS Tournament at Eastern Star
Wednesday, June 24 started off with some threatening skies as a prelude to the monthly PAGS tournament, held at the improved Eastern Star. For todays field of 80 odd keen players, which included only 4 ladies, the weather conditions were mostly fine with a light breeze, while the rain came down for about 10 minutes.
With the fairways a little patchy, due to the lack of rain, the decision was made to have preferred lies on the closely mown areas, to help avoid an undeserved bare lie. Eastern Star’s greens have been of a consistently good standard over the past months, and the greenkeeper is to be commended.
As with most months, there is generally a standout performer or two on the day. This time it was Bob Watson’s turn to be the clear star of the day with his gross 72, and a clear winner in A flight with 40 points.
Bob Watson (centre) was the low gross champion and A Flight winner.
Kevin Mackintosh is worthy of a special mention for his success in 4 technicals, with ladies winner Rungratree Cox’s (H/cap 12) 45 points and 3 technicals also deserving a high commendation. Both multiple technical winners were limited to the maximum of 2 prizes supplied by the numerous sponsors, including major sponsors, TBX Barter Exchange & Tudor Group.
The ladies winner has already been mentioned, with her day’s outstanding best stablefored score of 45 points. C Flight, for handicap 19+, required a count back after Brendon Ruddy (23) and Stefan Lord (19) both signed for 39 points; Brendon just getting the better of Stefan on the back nine, 20/19, while Ronny Walfridsson (28) got the bronze with 38 points.
Regular contender Leo Ruuskanen (16) got top spot in B flight, 11–18 handicappers, with a solid 39 points. Wolfram Krueger (15) was in the silver medal position after his 38 points, and third spot required a count back decision, eventually won by Don Head (15) on the last 6 holes 11/10, after both he and Werner (15) signed for 36 points.
Ladies winner Rungratree Cox (centre) receives her prize.
As mentioned previously, it was Bob Watson (4) leading the way in A flight, 0–10, with his strong 40 points. Mika Viljakainen (7) did well to record 38 points for second place, with third going to Paul Pavloff (7) on 36 points.
Honourable mentions for multiple technical wins on the day go out to Steve Truelove for his 2 long drives in the 65+ group, Timo for his 2 approaches, and Jeff Wylie for his one of each. It would also be remiss not to give out a special mention to Shane, the organizer, who supplied a Fenix shirt to all tournament participants. The gesture was much appreciated by all.
Dave and his team from the Sportsman and the Shenanigans crews did a fantastic job of keeping all the golfers and their guests satisfied in the food & drinks area. We all look forward to another successful tournament with the next event at Greenwood on 29th July. Contact Shane on 085 945 9689 to ensure your preferred tee time.
