Web Site

During our enforced layoff I've found time to update our web site with 2011's diary and matches.
Unfortunately the link to the constitution doesn't work yet but a new addition is the gallery.
If you have any relevant photos you would like to have published please email them to me or if you would like to see any additional content.

Course re-opening

Hopefully the course will have thawed out enough to resume on Thursday 30th.
The manager will decide first thing in the morning so advisable to phone first.
It will almost certainly be open Friday 31st but I understand everything is closed on New Years Day.
To everyone I don't see beforehand "have a Happy New Year".

Weather Forecast

http://www.theweatherland.com
A link to this was posted as a comment- very comprehensive web site.
Enjoy.

Sandpiper Tradition

Just had an email from Peter Hetherington informing me that they are enjoying 25 degree temperatures although rather windy.
True to form he forgot to take this blog address with him to keep up with the news and also forgot to include where he was suffering those temperatures. Watch this space!

Thursday 16th December

No one had any great belief in Joe Campbell's weather forecast, but after a couple of cups of coffee the snow showers stopped and five of us plus an honorary Sandpiper for the day had a pleasant round, albeit a bit chilly.

Bottle Trot

Fortunately the weather gods smiled for the annual bash and was very well supported with 23 of us competing and some of those unable to play turning up for the festive dinner.
Although we were off half club handicap Trevor Wilson claimed the winner's bottle of whisky with 47 points, low handicapper Roy Williams second with 45, and more prizes distributed down to 38 points.
I'm sure everyone would like to thank the "management team" for the work they put into organising and running the event.

Bottle Trot Christmas Meal

Little signs of a thaw today but getting colder next week and play not likely over the weekend, so if play is possible on Tuesday commencing 9.00am the meal will be around 2.30pm.
If no play is possible the meal will be brought forward to 12.00 for 12.30pm.
If you haven't specified your choice of meal please let Trevor Wilson know.
I understand the bottle prizes will be held over for a social competition early next year if they're not played for on Tuesday.

Tip of the Week

Has anyone else bought one of those large garden vacuum / blowers and hardly used it?
Put it on maximum blow and clear all the snow off the car before it freezes. It will also clear drives and paths, even chipping away lightly compacted stuff.
A much easier way than using brushes and shovels and very effective.
As a precaution make sure the wife isn't standing in the line of fire unless of course ......
If you don't get on with your neighbours, another bonus is that it's quite noisy.
If you have any tips you'd like to pass on please get in touch.

Thursday 25th November

The temperature managed to climb to 2.0C but the biting north wind made it feel colder.
Thirteen of us played on temporary greens with my 39 points taking the £7.80p pot, squeezing out Geoff Scott on count back.
Geoff Waite has a list prepared for pre ordering our meals for the social on December 14th.
The menu is a choice between Soup, Duck Pate or Garlic Mushrooms for starter and Turkey or Roast Beef main course. Please add your choices as soon as possible.

Important Changes

Geoff Waite informed those present today that membership is now open and to accommodate the extra numbers our allocated tee time has been extended to commence at 10.50am and the draw will now be done at 10.45am until March 2011 when we revert to 11.00am with an extra two tee times added after 12.00 noon.

Latest Results

As some of you will know, my PC has gone t**ts up so I'm having to make do with this old thing which is rather slow.
Thursday 18th November
Seventeen played with John Gibson winning on 30 points and Geoff Waite 2nd through countback on 29 points.
Tuesday 23rd November
Joe Penrice cleaned up with 38 points, two clear of Tony Davis in 2nd place.

Tuesday 16th November

Today was probably the calmest of the summer but the scores weren't exactly sparkling.
Tony Davis excelled with 36 points and as a result is now probably playing off a plus handicap.
Trevor Wilson came second after a back six count back on 34 points.
The list is now up for the Xmas social and lunch on the 14th December.
As my computer has recently died I'm using Joe Cambell's, hence any spelling mistakes.

Tuesday 9th November

Twenty three braved the bitter cold wind from the east with Geoff Waite and Tony Davis both carding 36 points. Geoff won on countback, even though he had to rely on Shanks's pony for part of his round.

Course Maintenance Visit

The visit has been arranged for THURSDAY 18^th NOVEMBER immediately following the Sandpipers round on that day.

If by chance the weather means no play, I will rearrange the visit.

John Tudor, 6^th November 2010

Tuesday 2nd November

Fifteen Sandpipers teed off into a howling wind, hoping to beat the forecast rain by playing 'Speed Golf'.
Fortunately the rain only started after we had all negotiated the 13th. Unfortunately it was horizontal.
Brian Taylor returned a creditable 30 points playing off 7 (now 5) with Roger Cutts turning up late and claiming 2nd prize.

Thursday 28th October

What started off as a promising round quickly deteriorated to waterproofs and umbrellas, with several of us chickening out before it got really serious.
Robin Binny seized his chance and carded a winning 34 points with Roger Cutts second on 32.

Ladies Match

Unfortunately the fixture was abandoned as the wind and rain showed no signs of abating.
Several of us did turn up, but enthusiasm was definitely lacking so our organisers seem to have agreed that next May would be the best time for a rearranged date.

Amendment

Note the correct date (day) of list closure.

I have been asked to arrange a visit for members of the Sandpipers to the course workshops, etc., following one of our Tuesday or Thursday rounds.  Brian Story will be there to show us around and it is anticipated that the visit will last about half an hour or so.

The possible dates are

Thursday, 11^th November

Tuesday, 16^th November

Thursday, 18^th November

Would anyone interested please put their name on the list on the Sandpipers’ Noticeboard, by no later than Friday, 5^th November, and tick the date/s you would prefer or could manage.   The visit will then take place on the most popular date.

John Tudor

Last Week

Unfortunately I missed both Tuesday and Thursday so the only result I can give is for Thursday, when 15 played and Malcolm Donald's 30 points was enough to win, with Joe Campbell runner up with 28.
Tuesday 26th is the Ellis Beattie Trophy mixed competition.

Visit to the Course Management Site

I have been asked to arrange a visit for members of the Sandpipers to the course workshops, etc., following one of our Tuesday or Thursday rounds.  Brian Story will be there to show us around and it is anticipated that the visit will last about half an hour or so.

The possible dates are

Thursday, 11th November

Tuesday, 16th November

Thursday, 18th November

Would anyone interested please put their name on the list on the Sandpipers’ Noticeboard, by no later than Tuesday, 5th November, and tick the date/s you would prefer or could manage.   The visit will then take place on the most popular date.

John Tudor

Thursday 14th October

Possibly the best conditions for play we've had this year, with no wind and comfortable temperature.
A pity the course has been hacked up with the fairways slit and the tees hollow tined but no doubt we will see the benefit next year.
I was going to say "modesty forbids me naming today's winner" but everyone knows that would be a lie so I claimed first prize with 40 points from the best round I've had for a long time, 2 ahead of Sandy Tonner.
Sadly it looks as if John Cooper has given up any hope of playing again as he has decided to sell his ride-on buggy. Joe Campbell has the details if anyone is interested.

Tuesday 12th October

Roy Williams had a tremendous round of 42 points with a handicap of seven. This means his official handicap will be scrutinised by his home club's handicap secretary.
David Allison came second in dull but calm conditions.
I bumped into Austin Saffil the other day and unfortunately due to joint problems he is unable to play, even using a ride on buggy.
He is still managing to get around, albeit slowly.

Match with Ladies

Tuesday 26th October, 11.00am.
The twelve names on our list for this match have been submitted to Mrs Donald for her to pair up with one of the ladies, so if you've upset her or Malcolm you could be in for a surprise.
The list isn't closed so anyone else wishing to play should give their name to Brian, Terry or John Kennedy.

Thursday 7th October

Joe Donlan spoilt Geoff Waite's return to form by coming in with a winning score of 40 points in the last fourball.
I'm informed that playing conditions were near perfect with sun and a light breeze.

Tuesday 5th October

Twenty Sandpipers managed the 9.00am start with only Grant and Sandy turning up at 11.00am.
Fortunately the downpour at the start only lasted for a couple of holes, after which we competed for the Brindley Salver in strong winds.
Brian Taylor and Harry Wright turned in 41 points to beat Roy Williams and Robin Binny on countback and claimed the trophy.
Secretary Geoff Waite chaired the ensuing AGM and reported a successful year together with a satisfactory statement of accounts.
Topics discussed in the meeting will be published in his report in due course.
Subscriptions are now due for payment.

Thursday 30th September

Occasionally it's advantageous to play last as the last two fourballs found today. The heavy showers disappeared to leave very favourable conditions.
John Kennedy secured himself a 5 stroke handicap reduction with 41 points followed by Trevor Wilson with 37.
To avoid confusion, Tuesday's AGM will commence around 2.00pm should the weather be inclement and for inactive members. Hopefully we can have a good turnout for the 9.00am start and even more at the AGM.

Tuesday 28th September

Perfect playing conditions for the newly rebuilt Jim Gilfillan to win on his debut with 37 point, just edging out Alan Proud on the back nine. 24 Sandpipers turned out.
Don't forget that next Tuesday is our AGM preceded by the Brindley Salver Greensomes commencing at 9.00am. Forms for nominating officers for the ensuing year are pinned to the notice board.

Betty Campbell

Sunday 26th September.
I'm very sad to inform everyone that Joe's beloved wife Betty passed away suddenly this morning due to complications from a long term illness.
Joe tells me that he's still trying to 'get his head round what's happened' and I'm sure that together with our condolences we will respect his need for privacy through the very difficult weeks ahead.

Carlisle Match Result

Considering the torrential downpours both on the way there and going home we should consider ourselves lucky to get played at all. The rain that did fall during the match wasn't enough to deter us ruffty tuffty Sandpipers but unfortunately it seems to have affected our opponents less, as we suffered an unexpected defeat.
That concludes our match fixtures for this year, and I'm sure we all wish to thank Joe for the work he has put in during 2010.

Brits v Celts

The conversions of McWright, McBarnes, McLow and others more or less guaranteed the devious Jocks their third win. Even O'Bama could have played for them.
Never mind, there were some good tussles resulting in draws and playing conditions were fair to good.
Thursday is our return match at Carlisle so time to regroup and get stuck in

Thursday 16th September

Geoff Scott managed 36 points which was just enough to take first prize, one in front of me!
I see the Jocks have been padding out their list of players for next Tuesday's match with some very dodgy players.
How anyone born in Salterbeck can claim to be Scottish is just one example.

Thursday 9th September

It is difficult to understand why David Barnes' 33 points was sufficient to take second place from a field of 22 in reasonably favourable conditions. It makes David Low's continuing run of good form all the more impressive with a winning score of 39 points.

Sandpipers Championship

Congratulations to Malcolm Donald who won the final on Thursday 9th September, and commiserations to Brian Taylor as runner up in a nail biting finish on the 18th green.

Bob Saunders Trophy Result

The day turned out much better than forecast and was reflected in the scores.
Roger Cutts recorded 43 points and Brian Taylor 41 for second place. CSS was 70.

Appleby Match Result

Once again, Captain Mike Mapleton (The Scourge of Appleby) led his troops to a 7.5 - 0.5 victory in possibly the most favourable conditions we've had this year.

Brits v Celts Match

The sheet for team selection is now on the notice board. Any tenuous links to Celtic ancestry should be supported by documentary evidence, in the absence of which the quite painful extraction of a DNA sample may be required.
Our Geordie friend is having problems with his trolley battery and charger. As usual it was difficult to extract the full true story but it appears he was advised to un-necessarily buy a new Wong (Chinese) charger.
If anyone still has their HillBilly instruction booklet will they please lend it to him, particularly the section that mentions not leaving the battery attached to the charger with mains switched off.

Carlisle v Sandpipers

THURSDAY  23^rd  SEPTEMBER 2010

Dress Code: Jacket and Tie

9.30-  T. Wilson (C ) / I. Porter
9.37- R. Williams / R. Cutts
9.44- D. Barnes / D. Young
9.51- D. Wood / J.  Kennedy
9.58- H. Wright / G. Waite
10.05- T. Davis / J. Campbell
10.12- B. Taylor / T. Neilly
10.19- J. Dixon / B. Bower
10.26- T. Stubbs / G. Anderson
10.33- L. Heyes / E. Harle

Reserve: C.Tidswell
Please confirm place by ticking sheet on notice board.

J.Banks Trophy

One of the best days weather wise we've had this year and the turnout of 31 Sandpipers reflected the conditions.
Richard Brogden took the trophy with 43 points and Robin Binny had to settle for second place with an equally impressive 42.
Don't forget our home fixture against Appleby this coming Thursday.

Seniors Open

Congratulations to David Low for winning his section in a competition with tee times from early morning until after 3.30pm.
Malcolm Donald managed a creditable 4th in the same section and Roy Williams came 6th on the low handicap section.
Credit should also be given to those Sandpipers who gave up their day to make the competition such a success, including Geoff, two Johns and Trevor, plus others who I didn't see.

Tuesday 15th August

Into every life a little rain must fall....
Fortunately it was only a few drops.
I couldn't wait for the presentation so can only post the result.
R.Brogden 42 points
G.Scott 39 points.

Sandpipers v Appleby Team

Thursday 2nd September

10.30 - M. Mapleton (C) / I. Porter
10.37 - D. Barnes / T. Neilly
10.44 - D. Young / J. Tudor
10.51 - J. Gibson / J. Kennedy
10.58 - D. Wood / R. Cutts
11.05 - T. Stubbs / G. Waite
11.12 - B. Taylor / J. Campbell
11.19 - W. Smith / G. Anderson
Reserve - T.Wilson

Jacket & Tie requested

Please confirm you can play by ticking the sheet on the notice board.

Thursday 12th August

Poor weather forecast = poor turnout, but eighteen played in blustery conditions with only the last four ball catching a shower.
Harry Wright scored 41 to take the pot and David Allison 2nd with 39.
We let a  visiting couple through on the ninth and they made steady progress through the field.
By the time we got in they were half way through their meal in the lounge. It didn't hold us up much and certainly made their day more enjoyable - lesson learned.

Ronnie Thompson Trophy

High winds and intermittent heavy showers were no match for David Barnes' skills who recorded a very creditable nett 68, five shots clear of second placed Dave Wood.

Tuesday 3rd August

As 17 turned out for the scheduled 4BBB we just played our normal game.
The same sandpiper who went to our pro's shop to complain that his newly purchased 3 wood had cost him a fortune after his hole in one with it last week came in first with 37 points (I'm sure I don't need to say who!).
Harry Wright was runner up with 33.
Sad to report that one of our team against Maryport failed to turn up, leaving his playing partner to battle single handed, and even worse I'm told that the 4.5 - 5.5 loss might have hinged on that game.

Seascale Result

The Sandpipers extended the winning streak with a 5.5 - 2.5 win at home in blustery conditions under the captaincy of Roy Williams.
Once again we enjoyed a super meal afterwards.

J.Eilbeck Trophy

Joe Campbell won the trophy with 41 points in very favourable conditions.
Of the remaining 21 players, Dave Wood came second on countback with 37 points.

Maryport v Sandpipers

Monday 2nd August

10-00- T. Wilson (C ) / T. Neilly
10-07- J. Eilbeck / J. Campbell
10-14- W. Smith / J. Tudor
10-21- D. Barnes / Reserve required
10-28- R. Williams / B. Bower
10.35- I. Porter / J. Penrice
10.42- T. Stubbs / L. Heyes
10.49- J. Gibson / G. Anderson
10-56- H. Wright / P. Hetherington
11-03- C. Tidswell / M. Mapleton

Thursday 22nd July

Just a brief report that from 16 who turned out, Trevor Wilson won with 37 points followed by Alan Haywood with 33.

Hole in One

Malcolm Donald knocked one in on the 6th and went on to secure a place in our championship final.
True to form, by the time he had picked the ball out of the hole he had worked out that most of the Sandpipers were at Appleby and of the six following us only three were likely to come into the bar for a free drink at his expense.
He was very generous however, and the seven people in the bar were able to toast his good fortune.

Appleby Result

Our intrepid on the spot reporter informs me that "och aye - they looked to be in shock".
This is because the home defeat by 5.5 to 2.5 was only the second Appleby had suffered this year.
As usual the hospitality and meal were of a high standard.

Sandpipers v Seascale

Thursday 29th July

10.30-  R. Williams ( C ) / J. Tudor
10.37- D. Barnes / R. Cutts
10.44- I. Porter / B. Bower
10.51- J. Gibson / J. Campbell
10.58- D. Wood / T. Neilly
11.05- T. Stubbs / G. Anderson
11.12- T. Wilson / M. Mapleton
11.19- J. Kennedy / J. Dixon

Jacket & Tie Requested

Brampton Result

The best thing about the day was that the predicted rain didn't arrive until we were on our way home.
The bad news was the 3 - 5 score.
As usual the course was in excellent condition with a good meal afterwards.

Tuesday 14th July

Good to see Joe Penrice at the top of the leader board again with 37 points, beating runner up Trevor Wilson on count back with conditions classed as good but breezy.

Latest Results

Tuesday 06/07/2010

T.Anderson Trophy

Ian Porter took the trophy with 40 points closely followed by Mike Mapleton with 39.

Thursday 08/07/2010

An approximate guess at the number of Sandpipers who took part was recorded at 22, but as an extra pound was in the kitty and none of us likely to pay twice, next Tuesday's prize money will be enhanced.

Tom Neilly came first with 39 points and after much head scratching, handicap shuffling and general hilarity, Robin Binny was awarded 2nd place with 36.

Be aware that the Jocks are now scratching around for players for the Celt's match and questioning (fixing) ancestry to enhance their team. Birth certificates and DNA testing may be required to qualify.

Sandpiper Apparel

Spare new clothing available with Sandpiper logo.
Shirt 42", Shirt 44" and Sleeveless Pullover 44".
See John Dixon for details.

Away Match v Appleby

Tuesday 20th July 2010

9.30-  M. Mapleton (C ) / J. Gibson
9.37- J. Kennedy / T. Neilly
9.44- H. Wright / G. Waite
9.51- J. Campbell / B. Bower
9.58- D. Barnes / E. Harle
10.05- I. Porter / G. Anderson
10.12- T. Stubbs / R. Cutts
10.19- J. Dixon / J. Tudor

Reserves: J.Eilbeck, C.Tidswell, D.Wood.
Jacket & Tie are requested but may not be required on the day.

Tuesday 29th June

24 Sandpipers competed for the Walters Cup which by common consent was changed from a greensome to 4BBB format on the day.
43 points from Roger Cutts, partnered by Malcolm Donald won the day, with 3 other pairs close behind on 42.
Conditions were classified as good with the fairways rock solid.

Brampton Result

Another good performance by the Sandpipers at home with a 5-1/2 to 2-1/2 win in breezy conditions that got quite cloudy at one stage.
Once again we had a superb meal afterwards and our captain of the day recited a golfing poem lifted from a s***house door in Ireland.
We're all looking forward to the return match on Wednesday 14th July.

Brampton v Sandpipers

WEDNESDAY 14th JULY 2010
9.30-  T. Stubbs  ( C ) /  J. Tudor
9.37- D. Wood / J. Dixon
9.44- T. Wilson / T. Neilly
9.51- B. Taylor / G. Anderson
9.58- D. Barnes / B. Bower
10.05- H. Wright / J. Campbell
10.12- J.Kennedy / G. Waite
10.19- I. Porter / M. Mapleton
Reserves: T.Davis, D.Young.
Jacket and Tie requested.

John Norton Cup

Congratulations to Brian Taylor whose 40 points just edged out Grant Anderton.
The new sweaters and shirts have arrived and will be available for collection before our match with Brampton tomorrow.

Maryport Match Result

The Sandpipers came back to winning form with an 8 - 2 win on a scorching hot afternoon. Both teams had a full compliment of players.

Tuesday 15th June

The Carrick Trophy was played for in breezy but sunny conditions by 22 Sandpipers.
Joe Campbell's 40 points gave a well deserved win, just pipping Brian Taylor by a better back six.

Home Match v Brampton

Thursday 24^th June 2010

10.30- T. Stubbs   ( C ) / J. Campbell

10.37- J. Kennedy  / J.Tudor

10.44- J. Dixon / G. Waite

10.51- R. Cutts / W. Smith

10.58- H. Wright / M. Mapleton

11.05- T. Wilson / G. Anderson

11.12- D. Wood / B. Bower

11.19- B. Taylor / T. Neilly

Reserves

D.Barnes, I.Porter

Jacket and Tie Requested

Hole in One

Congratulations to Sandy Tonner for a hole in one on Saturday 12th June.
I believe it was on the sixth but I was in too much of a rush to get to the bar to take too much notice!

Home Match v Maryport

Sandpipers v Maryport
Thursday 17th June
10.30 - G.Waite (C) / T.Wilson
10.37 - W.Smith / J.Tudor
10.44 - I.Porter / H.Wright
10.51 - D.Young / J.Penrice
10.58 - R.Williams / R.Cutts
11.05 - D.Barnes / G.Anderson
11.12 - R.Hetherington / J.Dixon
11.19 - B.Taylor / B.Bower
11.26 - D.Wood / T.Neilly
11.33 - J.Campbell / A.N.Other
Jacket & Tie requested
As you can see, 1 more player is required to fill the 11.33 spot.
Please help Joe by volunteering and mention it to anyone you know isn't down to play.

Thursday 3rd June

20 turned up on a perfect day for golf, and Trevor Wilson scooped the winnings with a round of 37 points, John Dixon comendably taking second place with 36.
Joe Campbell is struggling to get enough players together for the home game v Maryport on 17th June. Please contact him if you can help - 016973 32009.
Geoff Waite.

Thursday 27th May

Only 13 turned up so it really wasn't the best idea to win with 37 points and get cut 3 shots for about £8.
Well done Joe. David Low was slightly more sensible with a 1 shot reduction for second place.
Just to remind everyone that the course is closed on Tuesday but we are able to play our usual stableford on Thursday as the wimmin only require the course in the afternoon.

Tuesday 25th May

Once again Charles Tidswell blew away the opposition with 44 points, 5 ahead of Harry Wright, to win the T.Sowerby Trophy.
****************
Report by Geoff Waite:
After many team changes we contrived to lose our away match against Workington 3.5 - 4.5, the same score as our home match a few weeks ago.
Mike Mapleton performed admirably as unexpectedly promoted captain of the day and had us in the lead until the final three pairings coming in.
Sandpipers please note that on Thursday 3rd June the ladies county championship finals will not interfere with our normal 11.00am tee time so it's 'game on'.
***************
If anyone has been having withdrawal symptoms owing to this blog not being updated as often, things are now more or less back to normal but please email me the results if I don't play on some future occasion.

Workington v Sandpipers 24th May

9.30 - B.Taylor (C) / H.Wright
9.37 - I.Porter / B.Bower
9.44 - D.Barnes / J.Tudor
9.51 - G.Waite / J.Kennedy
9.58 - T.Davis / C.Tidswell
10.05 - C.Woodhouse / J.Campbell
10.12 - L.Heyes / T.Neilly
10.19 - J.Gibson / M.Mapleton

Jacket and Tie requested

Thursday 13th May

Ian Porter demolished any opposition with 43 points on a windy day.
On Tuesday our team went down by 5 to 3 against Seascale under the captaincy of Roy Williams.
One fact to arise that may require future consideration is that many of our opponents are playing with inactive handicaps and have no intention of reactivating them by submitting cards to their club.
Owing to a possible case of 'stabby finger' (ask Joe about the symptoms), the team to play at Workington hasn't reached me yet but it is on the notice board and will hopefully be reproduced here by tomorrow night.
Eight of us will be enjoying Ireland at the beginning of next week so make sure enough turn up to ensure the John Todd Shield is a qualifier on Tuesday.

Sandpiper Successes

Our members have had a good run lately with Brian Taylor and David Wood taking 1st and 2nd places in the recent Veteran's Trophy competition and yesterday Charles Woodhouse (admittedly with a much younger partner) finished well up the leader board in the club's open 4BBB.
Harry Wright and partner David Wood also received prizes with one of the better 44 point scores.

Seascale Match

Please note that start time is 10.00am and not an hour later as shown on our web site.

This Week

Just a brief summary.
On Tuesday, Tony Davis won the George Doughty Cup from a field of 23 whilst on Thursday John Kennedy defied the strong wind to take the money.
Quite a few of us went on Terry Stubbs' outing to Lochmaben on Wednesday and played in very pleasant conditions. The only disappointment was the condition of the greens which had been recently hollow tined and filled. This didn't bother Joe Campbell who hoovered up a good selection of prizes, but there were plenty to go round and nobody came away empty handed.

New Members

Below is a copy of e-mail sent to Geoff. Waite by Andrew Edwards on behalf of the Club Committee, followed by some comment from Geoff.


 Geoff
 Thanks very much for our full discussion this afternoon. If I may,
 here is a very brief summary as I see it.
 1.     The Sandpipers should consider re-opening its membership. This will eliminate the awkward position whereby existing Sandpipers are enjoying privileges which are denied to other Seniors. Following the April Management Committee meeting the Captain asked me to open discussions with you to start to resolve this.
 2.     Opening the membership will result in some extra SP members. I guess the overall effect on the playing numbers is at present unknown, although numbers are liable to increase.
 3.     You are going to try to explore the ramifications of this with
 the SP committee and members. The SP committee will need to address how to accommodate extra members. Expected solutions are likely to require the allocation of some extra tee-time, but given that this is not always needed, then perhaps an alternative is to allow some flexibility at the end of the SP hour on those occasions when numbers demand it and this may have to be, for example, at the expense of delaying following matches. Certainly, some compromise will be necessary regarding numbers
 and allocated tee-times.


 Best of luck with your discussions and please keep me informed; email is best. As we have agreed, we can't just carry on as we are now.


 I hope you have an enjoyable holiday - see you soon.


 Regards
 Andrew Edwards


 You will see from the above e-mail, the initiative taken by the Club to find a solution to the problem of our closed membership.

 In response, our committee must now start to develop a proposal to accommodate this request and, if thought necessary, gain approval through a S/P general meeting before submission to the Club.

 Some key issues which have to be recognised and considered in any  proposals must include: -

 Exceeding our allocated tee time would normally be caused by the unpredictability of too many S/P turning up on the day, but could also be due to a group of slow visitors starting immediately before us.
 Extension of allocated tee times would be an essential element for Tuesdays and Thursdays. It can be argued for any such extension being either before 11am or after 12 noon, but during the winter at least, it must be the former, otherwise we would run out of light.
    In considering the length of tee time extension, do we simply predict  the expansion of membership from taking in the 9 members currently on our waiting list, or is it reasonable to assume a larger intake from members who have not asked to be put on the list?
 Because of potential waiting time for S/Ps drawn out last, we would want to minimise any time extension proposal, and if some flexibility can be gained with visitors (as suggested in Andrews e-mail), then it would be preferred by the S/Ps.
    The time spent by Terry Stubbs in starting and concluding proceedings  will be extended.
    When membership is reopened, do we enforce the rules, normally waived, of requiring full retirement and the need to have been a Club member for more than three years?


    Geoff Waite.

Thursday 30th April

I didn't play on Thursday but from the sheet I see that Malcolm Donald returned to form with 40 points and David Low second with 37. Seventeen played.

John Cooper Trophy

The pairing of David Barnes and Grant Anderson headed the field with 45 points on a day when some other good scores were recorded.
Unfortunately John Cooper was rather under the weather that day and unable to attend and if you're reading this John we all send our best wishes.

This week's results

22 played on Tuesday with Brian Taylor's 36 points winning followed by Joe Penrice with 34.
On Thursday 23 turned out in windy conditions which was reflected in the scores.
David Allison won with 34, one more than John Gibson.
On Tuesday next the John Cooper Pairs Trophy will be played and those who haven't already got partners can get together on the day.
Hopefully an even number will turn up.

Seascale Match

AWAY MATCH v SEASCALE
TUESDAY 11th MAY at 10.00 am
DRESS - JACKET and TIE
10.00 R. Williams ( C ) / T. Stubbs
10.07 B. Taylor  /  R. Cutts
10.14 T.Davis / B. Bower    
10.21 D. Barnes / J.Dixon
10.28 D. Wood / M. Mapleton
10.35 I.Porter  /  J. Tudor
10.42 H. Wright / J. Campbell
10.49 J. Gibson / J.Kennedy
RESERVES         C. Woodhouse
Please advise Joe if you are unable to play.

Workington Result

The first round of the Shanks Trophy went to Workington by 4.5 to 3.5 under the captaincy of Brian Taylor and the return away game will be on Monday 24th May.
Please note that the away match against Seascale has been rescheduled to start at 10.00am on Tuesday 11th May.
The web site matches diary will be altered accordingly.

Championship Qualifier

Unfortunately, due to 'technical issues', the top 16 or other scores of this competition will not appear on howdidido for a couple of days.
Some official club handicaps may have been reduced - especially Grant Anderson with 39 points so check before you play in any club competitions.
More bad news - the list for Sandpiper clothing has gone missing so rather than stick it on the notice board again please let me know what you want, especially those who had already filled in their details.

Thursday 8th April

Twenty five of us started in blustery conditions that were reflected in the scores.
Roger Cutts' 38 points had a 6 point margin over Robin Binny's second place.
John Eilbeck used the outing to submit another card to revive his lapsed handicap, without which no Sandpiper can win a prize.
The cost of Sandpiper shirts has come back at £14 and lambswool jumpers at £30 and it is important that you submit your chest measurement rather than guess at 'medium' or XL etc.

Tuesday 6th April

Seven hopefuls defied the weather forecast by finishing a round in blustery conditions with an hour to spare before the rain set in.
Spare a thought for Alan Proud who has torn something in his shoulder and thinks he is going to be out of action for some considerable time to come.
The list for Sandpipers' apparel is now on the notice board so make sure your order is in before the list is sent off. Chest measurements are required in inches.

Workington Match

HOME MATCH v WORKINGTON
THURSDAY 15th APRIL
DRESS - JACKET and TIE

10.30 - D.Wood ( C ) / J.Campbell
10.37 - B.Taylor / J.Tudor
10.44 - T.Davis / T.Neilly                            
10.51 - D. Barnes / M.Mapleton
10.58 - R.Williams / B.Bower
11.05 - I.Porter / R.Cutts
11.12 - J.Gibson / H.Wright
11.19 - T.Wilson / D.Low
Please let Joe know if you can't make it.

Thursday 1st April

Twenty Sandpipers turned out which allowed us to play the advertised Greensomes competition in sunny conditions but with a biting wind to contend with on the front nine.
The third fourball out provided both first and second places (nothing suspicious there then!) with Charles Tidswell and David Allison's 39 points and David Barnes with Charles Woodhouse scoring 37.

Carlisle Match Result

Captain Trevor Wilson led his team to a decisive 7 - 3 victory in conditions that can only be described as 'crap'.
Even so, all the pairings finished although only one took it as far the 16th.
Afterwards we all enjoyed a super meal and then off home to dry out all our gear.

Carlisle Match

Tuesday 30th March
10.30 - T.Wilson / B Bower
10.37 - J.Penrice / J.Tudor
10.44 - I.Porter / J.Campbell
10.51 - J.Eilbeck / R.Cutts
10.58 - T.Stubbs / A.Proud
11.05 - J.Gibson / T.Neilly
11.12 - J.Kennedy / J.Dixon
11.19 - R.Williams / H.Wright
11.26 - T.Davis / M.Mapleton
11.33 - D.Wood / G.Waite
Jacket and Tie required.

Thursday 25th March

David Barnes was the outright winner with 42 points, 9 points clear of second placed Trevor Wilson. His handicap was duly chopped by 6 shots.

Tuesday 23rd March

28 Sandpipers turned out to face a stiff breeze that eventually died down.
Our first official competition of the year went to Robin Binny with +4 and Harry Wright second with +3 in the bogey format.
Unfortunately, due to factors outside our control, some of us were out there for more than 4.5 hours.

Thursday 18th March

The strong wind didn't bother Charles Tidswell today and with two podium finishes in a week, his 39 points took first prize with Dave Wood second on 35.
The real highlight was Joe chasing his runaway trolley.
Don't forget that next Tuesday is a Bogey competition.

Tuesday 16th March

A reasonable day for golf with a cool southerly breeze. Surprisingly low scores however with Alan Proud's 35 and Charles Tidswells 32 being the highest points from the field of 26.
Make a note of the date as for the first time I can remember we were waved through by the group in front.
Not unsurprisingly we were all so taken aback we made a pussy's bottom of our tee shots!

Thursday 11th March

I can only report from the result sheet, having traveled to Powfoot for an away day, but John Tudor returned to winning form by edging out John Gibson who also scored 39 points in a field of 23 players.

Tuesday 9th March

Approximately 26 started on a very pleasant afternoon.
Robin Binny took first prize with 38 points and David Allison second with 37.
A couple of minor alterations to the 2010 fixture list - Thursday 1st April will be a Greensomes competition kicking off at 11.00am and the start time of our away match at Seascale has been amended to 11.00am.
The web site diary will be adjusted accordingly.

Thursday 4th March

The thirty one members who turned up hoping the overnight frost wouldn't spoil the day were not disappointed.
A warm, sunny afternoon in perfect conditions and the cream came to the top.
Joe Donlan scooped the pool with 36 points and Robin Binny had second prize torn from his grasp after Brian Taylor's card eventually emerged from Sandy Tonner's back pocket.

Tuesday 2nd March

Who would have thought that with all the overnight snow that nineteen of us would enjoy a warm spring afternoon on the full course.
Joe Cambell isn't complaining as he turned in 42 points with encouragement from his playing partner who just pipped Charles Woodhouse on the back nine with 39 points.
Once again modesty prevents me from mentioning names!
The list for our home match against Carlisle is now on the notice board.

Thursday 25th February

Only 18 turned out for a day that wasn't too bad except for the heavy shower that caught the last two fourballs out.
Brian Taylor's 35 points took first prize, one ahead of Malcolm Donald.
The highlight of our round was John Dixon's trolley going walkabout leaving a trail of clubs behind it.
Good to see some members are leaving comments. Click on the 'comment' links to see their contributions or add your own.

Tuesday 23rd February

Today's temperatures ranged between pleasant and cold, but Joe Donlan wasn't deterred as his 50 points proved and Charles Tidswell with 47 for second place. Twenty one players made the pot worth winning.
To put you out of your misery, the photo was taken from the lowest point of the third fairway looking towards the green.

Thursday 18th February

I wasn't able to play myself hence the following report supplied by Joe C.
Hi
Father Dave 53Pts.
John  Gibson 50 Pts.
21 Golfers
Winter Golf
Joe
Stuart Jones has been in touch to let us know that he's going for his knee op soon and that he thinks the photo is looking towards the first green. Should he get his eyes done at the same time?
All the best Stuart.

Snow Scene

Guess which part of the golf course this is!
Kindly supplied by John Tudor.

Tuesday 16th February

Only twenty turned up for a pleasant afternoon.
Rather more realistic scores on the full course but Geoff Waite scored 7 points on the last two holes to accumulate 37 points and relegate Tony Davis to second place with 36.
Anyone wishing to visit Lochmaben GC on the 5th May should get their names on the list as the deposit will need to be sent off shortly to book the course.

Thursday 11th February

A lovely spring day but the overnight frost meant we played on temporary greens again.
Some fantastic scores recorded by the 22 members with Ellis Beattie's 65 being more 'fantasy' than fact.
Allowances were made when it was realised who had marked his card and the resulting 56 points was still 6 points clear of 2nd placed Joe Campbell.

Tuesday 9th February

Not the kind of day for standing about in the freezing wind, but 29 members turned out with Dave Wood's 38 points taking first prize and Robin Binney second with 37.
Best wishes to Joe Penrice who I am told has had reassuring news from his doctor after a couple of 'bad turns' but will  resist the urge to play for a little while.

Thursday 4th February

Unfortunately, the course manager decided there was still too much frost in the ground to open the full course so 20 of us took part in a 4BBB playing off 3/4 Sandpipers handicaps on temporary greens.
No problem for Geoff Scott and John Kennedy who turned in 54 points, with the in-form Harry Wright and his partner John Eilbeck pinching second place with 51.
Terry Stubbs has put up a list for Lochmaben on the 5th May.

Tuesday 2nd February

Drizzle, rain, sleet and light snow. These were the conditions prior to 14 Sandpipers teeing off, but after a few holes the weather improved to become a balmy spring afternoon.
Tom Neilly won 1st prize with 35 points followed by Mike Mapleton with 32.

Thursday 28th January

With far better weather conditions, David Low's new putter earned him a 38 points second place which was still a street behind Harry Wright whose 44 points qualified him to have his handicap suitably castrated.

Tuesday 26th January

Terry Stubbs galloped round to a 39 points victory over the other 23 Sandpipers, with Brian Taylor recording 36 points on a chilly day with a hint of sleet in the air.
The couple of people who were concerned about Alan Proud not feeling too well on the 18th green will be pleased to hear that it seems to have been caused by a chill which a hot bath has cured as well as having another beneficial effect.
Look after yourself Alan.

Thursday 21st January

21 golfers in total.
Winner    T.Neilly  39 Pts.
Run./up   J Donlan  36 Pts.
Weather very good. A high of 4.5 and bitter wind.
Joe

Proper Greens

Just informed that the full course is in play on Wednesday 20th January.

Tuesday 19th January 2010

Conditions classed as 'cool but calm'.
Loads of Sandpipers turned up for the first playable day of the year which unfortunately was still on winter greens. Once again the bandits with high handicaps took full advantage knowing they could only be cut two shots for winning.
Mike Mapleton scored 52 points for first place which would have seen 11 shots off on a good day.
Peter Hetherington's wait to tee off in the last fourball didn't put him off either as he came in with 49 points.

Amendment to Matches

The date for our away match against Carlisle has been moved from the 9th September to the 23rd September.
It was good to get out on the course again today, even though it was on temporary greens.

Course Open

The decision was made to open the course this morning Sunday 17th January. What chance it will be pouring down on Tuesday and Thursday?

Comments

I've opened up the comments facility (hopefully) so you can now add your own observations without having a google account. Unfortunately this means that anyone and their grannies who come across the blog can also have their tuppence worth and, as anyone who has used the net for any length of time knows, there are some nasty and malicious people out there. I'll monitor what gets posted to make sure it isn't abused so hopefully we'll get some extra regular input.
While we're at it, the 18th green is still frozen solid so don't get the clubs out of the garage just yet.

Not much to report

The ground is still frozen solid so goodness knows when we'll get back on the course.
Anyway, while you're all doing nothing else you can study the provisional diary for 2010 which is now on our web site.
Also there is now an extra page courtesy of Geoff and our committee which can be accessed via the web site menu or directly at http://www.sunside.co.uk/sandpipers/resolution.htm
Happy reading!

Course update

Although we have played in seemingly worse conditions, I am advised that following the hard frost before Christmas, the rain on Boxing Day was unable to soak away and has formed frozen pools in the hollows on some of the fairways. This is deemed to be too unsafe to let us loose on and as there is no sign of a significant thaw in the near future I'll have to find even more excuses not to go shopping while I'm 'doing nothing else'.
The Winter Heating Allowance has taken a severe battering and it's only the first week in January.
If you want to see a picture of the 18th green looking like a skating rink try www.sunside.i12.com. It was only taken with the mobile but gives an idea of the severity of the freeze up.

Correspondence

Hi Dave,
I doubt with your ample figure you could climb anything but I know you could fall asleep, hence no golf clubs - no card - and so forth.
Happy New Year and keep up the Blog it is much appreciated.
Regards Alan
When I invited input from you I didn't expect this abuse :-)