President Trophy Day at Hurlston Hall GC Tuesday 17th September 2024

Warm sunshine greeted the first arrivals at Hurlston Hall GC. The Secretary thought he would have a few quiet minutes before the arrival of players to set out the booking in table was short lived as newcomers to the League Dean Wood GC has ALL 12 players waiting for drinks at 8:15am! Immediately realised that they are a great bunch of comedians, keen golfers, great humour and will fit in straight away to our League. 

The front of house staff at Hurlston Hall were fantastic, serving bacon, sausage and drinks from as soon as players arrived, asking that players paid at the bar. I could tell that there was an immediate improvement in both the welcome and staff, until I mentioned that I was a lifelong Nottingham Forest fan! The mood changed; how come all the staff are REDS! Mined I got TWO bacon cobs; brilliant.

Play started on time at 10am, some derision on the 8th as there was three tee points but as always the experienced NWSL took charge and was sorted.
I walked some of the course asking players how they were playing and what they thought of the course. Nothing but wonderful praise; the course looked fabulous and the greens were as good as Wilpshire. I learned how they had achieved such a change after the former head of the course started projects but never finished them! So, talking to  the greens staff and some of the eighteen volunteers on and around the course, Hurlston have won the services of the Head Greenkeeper at Clitheroe GC! Great appointment.

With 84 players coming into the Clubhouse more or less at the same time; no long waits to be served, again fantastic staff followed by a two course meal that was enjoyed by all who played.

League President was introduced and gave a great speak and presentation.
As Dean Wood GC players could not join the Trophy competition they played and we gave prizes to the best three from Dean Wood GC. First with a total points of 40 was Dave Simms a 3.4 handicap. The Club sent some quality players, I will not reveal what there 10 players score was.....but watch out next season.
Dave's score was only beaten by Peter Gaunt from the home club with 41 points. 

Some comedy then ensued when John announced that there were only two two's. Uproar, as three other hands went up to state they had a two. Honestly apart from one I missed (it had a star against the hole) but the rest were 'hidden'. One card was barely legible, crossings out etc (my excuse).

President Trophy results were announced, with the home Club way ahead of second placed and holders Hindley Hall GC. All the results below.

We presented the League Trophy along with the announcements of second and third place. Hard to right after Leigh and his team came to  Wilpshire GC and gave us a beating to secure second place.

Dave Carling noted for his drivel when making his speeches made an outstanding speech for Dave, despite the heckling. How ever he did receive a resounding applause for his last speech ever!

President Trophy Results:
Hurlston Hall GC 327 points
Hindley Hall GC 310 points
Wilpshire GC 306 points
Longridge GC 305 points
Mytton Fold GC 299 points
Hart Common GC 284 points

Enjoy the winter golf and look forward to 2025.

Nigel Fairhurst NWSL Secretary