Thursday 22nd December

Seventeen enjoyed unseasonal warm(ish) conditions and another exceptional score, this time from Arthur Thomson with 42 points (27 - 21). Second placed Clive Milburn was five points behind (20 - 18).

Clark Black generously invited everyone to help him celebrate his forthcoming birthday.

I hope everyone enjoys a happy and peaceful Christmas.

 

Tuesday 20th December

16 played in windy, coldish conditions.   Second was Gerry Fisher with 31 points (16-15), but the runaway winner was Tom Borthwick who had an excellent 40 points (14-9).

Brian

 

Festive Period Tee Times

Due to excessive visitor numbers and another Xmas party for the Banty Trot members the Secretary has requested we forego a few reserved tees which due to our privileged status we feel obliged to agree.

Tuesday 27th Dec 11.00am - 11.20am

Thursday 29th Dec 10.50am - 11.10am

This means we could get 4 fourballs out and the option is still open for Sandpipers to make alternative arrangements through the Club booking system.

Xmas Bottle Trot and Lunch

One of the best turnouts we've enjoyed with eight 3 balls and 2 four balls taking part in fairly mild conditions for the time of year. Congratulations to Brian Taylor for his organising skills and particularly to Liam for providing superb meals for everybody's tastes.

The week's weather forecast means we will probably be on winter greens on Thursday and possible restrictions for use of buggies.

Thursday 1st December

Nineteen turned out today to play in dreary conditions. David Holdridge won with 41 points (26 - 21) and David Low second with 39 (16 - 13). Next Tuesday we have our annual Xmas bash commencing at 9.00am with a Texas Scramble off the green tees.

Depending on numbers we expect to be seated for our meal between 2.00 and 2.30pm but those who only intend to come for the meal should note that it may be brought forward to 1.00pm if inclement  affects play.

Sandpiper Christmas Menu

Main Courses

1) Butter basted roast turkey breast served with sprout confit, sausage meat stuffing, pig in a blanket, roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables with a roasting juices gravy.

2) Braised shin of beef on black pudding mashed potato with a roast root vegetable braising gravy and vegetable crisps.

3) Smoked haddock, cod, mussel and potato chowder with crusty bread.

Desserts

1) Traditional Christmas pudding with a brandy sauce and double jersey ice cream.

2) Home made sticky toffee pudding with gingerbread ice cream.

3) Madagascan vanilla ice cream with poached raspberries and crushed meringue

Tea or Coffee

Price £19 

Tuesday 22nd November

Completely unexpected calm and sunny conditions made it a pleasure to be out playing golf today. Twenty four took part with the last fourball just scraping in before darkness fell. My 40 points (23 - 18) just pipped Ian Hind's 39 (28 - 25).

The menu for our Xmas social is on the notice board. Liam is coming in specially to prepare the meal for us and his menu is on our notice board with a sheet for us to order our preferences. Subject to weather conditions the proceedings will commence with a Texas Scramble off the green tees on the 6th December.

It's a fantastic menu which I'll publish on a separate page for those who can't get to the club to make their choice and advise any committee member.

Geoff Waite

Sadly, Geoff passed away last Monday at the West Cumberland Hospital. A sympathy card to his family will be sent on behalf of all of us Sandpipers.

Extract from the Times and Star (copyright acknowledged):

"Loved by many who new him and worked along side him at Marchon. Funeral Service at Distington Hall Crematorium on Friday 25th November at 1.15pm. Family flowers only, donations if desired for Cancer Research C/O Nelson Chicken 39 Kirkgate Cockermouth."

 

Geoff Waite

Sadly, I'm informed that Geoff has been in hospital for four weeks and is struggling with his health. For our newer members Geoff was a long serving member and secretary for us and together with his good friend John Kennedy undertook most of the management of our society.

I'm sure we all wish him well.

Bad Weather and Beckfoot Road Closure

I'm informed that the the road closure is due to road surfacing work and it is hoped to be completed by this weekend. Both lanes are closed. Also due to a horrendous weather forecast for tomorrow Joe has deleted the Sandpipers' Thursday Social Competition that he set up for tomorrow. 

Thursday 3rd November

 A round of three parts - 2 very wet and 1 in between that was quite pleasant, with no wind either. 23 played today including two who only played part of the course. Winner with 37 points Harry Wright (29 to 26) second Vince Ross 34. (8 to 7) 4 players went up. 

Alan Proud played 13 holes and said his goodbyes.  ( He’ll be back!!!!!). 

Gilmour

For those who didn't know, Alan is moving to be nearer family and has been a long time supporter of the Sandpipers and a founding member of the PIGS (don't ask) on our many trips to Spain, Portugal and Ireland. Happy memories.

D

Tuesday 1st November

25 played today in chilly and VERY blustery conditions. Winner and second both had 37 points.

First, Ian Hind ( 31 - 28), runner up Bob Finlinson (19 - 17).

Gilmour

Winter Start Times

Just a reminder that we tee off at 10.50am from now until spring and that mats are compulsory on fairways. Due to a communications mishap I wasn't able to publish last Thursday's result but Arthur Thompson won (lo sing 4 shots) and Tony Davis second losing 1.

An update on Joe Penrice, he's still being kept under observation at Carlisle as they can't find anything obviously wrong so he'll be undergoing another couple of days of test and hopes to be home by Tuesday.

Handicaps

Following Thursday's WHS submissions several Sandpipers have had their yellow tee handicaps adjusted. Terry Bunn, John Parker and  Arthur Thompson all lose a shot whilst Gerry Fisher and Charles Woodhouse both gain one.

I'm starting a new sheet for November so please check the details I'm carrying forward are correct.

Tuesday 25th October

24 played.  Unfortunately Joe Penrice had a slight "incident " (I gather it was on the 3rd) when he collapsed and had to be helped back to the clubhouse.  Although he recovered, an ambulance was called and he was taken to hospital in Carlisle as a precaution.  Clark, one of his playing partners on the day, returned with him to the clubhouse and helped get clubs etc back to his car.  At this stage I'm not sure how Joe's progressing, but we all wish him a speedy recovery.

Meantime, runner-up from the remaining 22 who completed a round, was John Wraight with 36 points, and whose (Sandpipers) handicap reduces from 7 to 5.  Winner on the day was new member - Roger Coy, keeping up the tradition of new members posting a winning score on their first outing - with 37 points.  Roger's opening handicap of 32 reduces as a result to 29.

Tuesday 18th October

Twenty six turned up today for the Texas Scramble and Colin Campbell with Joe Holmes very generously  dropping out to leave eight 3 balls. Organiser Brian Taylor abetted by Terry Bunn and Tim Herbert won with 62 + 1 sixth narrowly beating the rest of the field according to Brian's calculations.

Welcome back to David Houldridge who found that even playing with the Sandpipers was better than work.

Texas Scramble

The diary Texas Scramble displaced by the Brindley Salver will be played on Tuesday 18th October, weather permitting.

Thursday WHS Entry Clarification

Whilst the decision taken at the AGM to enter all Thursday scores as General Play scores, this need not be an immutable rule, particularly when considering course and weather conditions. A decision on this can be taken before play if it is clear that the weather will adversely affect play and scores. I am informed by Joe Campbell that if conditions deteriorate substantially during a round, such that several players give up and walk in, he can abandon that day's 'competition' in the computer system so that no scores are recorded by the WHS system. Our objective was to give players the opportunity to maintain or even reduce their WHS handicaps, not for handicaps to creep up.

With regard to the course conditions, if there are for example temporary tees or greens, the course may not be 'qualifying' with regard to WHS rules. This is checked with the Professional before play. Also, a course can be 'qualifying' even if mats are used on the fairways, Club competition scores using mats will be entered into the computer for WHS purposes during this winter.'

This might answer a few of the comments we have already had. '

Brian (Hon Secretary)

Thursday 13th October

Fog depleted the field to seventeen today and although Steve Whitehead (12 - 11) is shown as the winner on the official printout he was relegated to runner up to Brian Taylor (15 - 12) when points were adjusted by Sandpiper handicaps. Two players got two shots back. I can't publish the result sheet until WHS indexes are updated tomorrow.

Brindley Salver Result

I'm informed that twelve pairs played today in reasonable conditions. 

Harry Wright and Terry Bunn won with 43 points (29 - 27 and 14 - 12 respectively)

Highlight of the day was Bob Finlinson's hole in one on the 6th. three players got 2 shots each back.

Unfortunately today's results couldn't be recorded on the usual sheet but an online version can be viewed from the link on the side of the blog.

Today's scheduled Texas Scramble will now take place next Tuesday 18th weather permitting.

Brindley Salver

As next Tuesday's forecast looks promising the A Brindley Salver greensomes will be played for commencing at 11.00am. Those not familiar with the format should arrive early for instruction. 

Handicap Adjustments

 Just for information, the scores recorded for general play yesterday have given an extra yellow tee one shot allowance to David Frith, John Parker and Vince Ross.

Thursday 6th October

Fourteen took place in today's inaugural trial for everyone to enter a general play score for handicap. Not the best conditions with a strong west wind  resulting in Clive Milburn and myself having the two winning 31 point scores. Lucky Clive beat me on the last 6.

It will be interesting when the updated WHS indexes come on line tomorrow to see the effect on the stroke allowances of those who played.

Another AGM decision intended to make our games more inclusive was to permit those who wish to, to play off the green tees for the full round. Designed for those who struggle with the carries the course has no par 5s and a slope index of 112.

Congratulations to Steve Whitehead on reaching another birthday and appreciation for his generosity in inviting everyone to help him celebrate the occasion.

AGM

Fairly well attended despite the poor weather, the main resolution passed was a trial period requiring everyone to register a general play handicap score via the computer every Thursday.

Brian thanked Willie for his committee service and welcomed Gilmour as his replacement. Subs remain at £5 and are now due.

Our most senior member Tommy Neilly was invited to present our trophies to the winners.

The Secretary's and Treasurer's reports will be incorporated on our web site in due course.

Tuesday 4th Competition

A bit late notice but in view of the poor weather forecast and the early start is has been decided to postpone the Brindley Salver to some later date.

The AGM will commence at 2.00pm. 

Thursday 29th September

Appreciation to Clive Milburn for inviting today's twenty two players to celebrate his birthday. Owen Swift had the best back six of 37 points (26 - 22) relegating Eddie Varah to second place (15 - 13). Clark Black and myself got two shots back.

Our thoughts are with Willie Smith who has tested positive and also to one of his Tuesday playing partners Tony Davis who had to retire feeling poorly today.

Should next Tuesday's competition be postponed through inclement weather, our AGM will commence at 2.00pm. The tee is reserved from 9.00am should anyone wish to play.

Tuesday 27th September

Thanks to Gilmour for compiling today's results.

Owen Swift was the winner with 39 points (30 -26) and John Wraight second with 37 (9 - 7). Conditions were dry, breezy and fast greens.

Sandpiper Champion 2022

Congratulations to a worthy winner John Parker who scuppered my chances on the seventeenth. 

Tuesday 20th September

Tim Herbert won today with 37 points (26 - 23) beating Terry Bunn on a back six count back (16 - 14). Twenty four played on pleasant conditions. 

Yellow Tee Handicaps

According to my reckoning ten Sandpipers' handicaps were adjusted either up or down following our last qualifying competition. A revised result sheet will be on the noticeboard or check the link on this blog.

Thursday 15th September

 Some dire scores from the twenty four players despite shirt sleeve conditions for part of the round today.

Joe Campbell's 34 points (31 - 29) took first prize pushing Roger Cutts (34 - 33) into second place with a better back nine

G Wright Trophy Result

John Parker continued his winning form with his 41 points (19 - 17) beating Martin Fouracre (25 - 24) on the inward nine. Twenty five took part in ideal conditions.

Thursday 8th September

A day of sunshine and light showers for twenty two players. John Parker took 10 points in Gilmour's league with 40 points (25 - 19) and Gerry Fisher returned to form with 39 (15 - 12).

Some trophies have yet to be returned for engraving and our AGM is getting closer so please arrange asap.  

Saxons v Celts Result

David Frith graciously handed the trophy to Brian Taylor after losing the match to a team ably assisted by several players of uncertain lineage. Seven four balls competed in conditions that improved as the day went on. 

Tuesday 1st September

Steve Whitehead continued his purple patch with 43 points (16 - 10) seven points clear of Eddie Varah (17 - 15) on a sunny day for the twenty two players, only spoilt by slow play from a group who teed off just before us. Five hours to complete a round isn't funny.

Next Tuesday is the annual Saxons v Celts and shenanigans shuffling ancestry qualifications.

Tuesday 30th August

Six of today's twenty five players got shots back but Joe Penrice's 41 points cost him five shots (29 - 24) and Terry Bunn with 39 loses three (17 - 14). 

Thursday 25th August

Twenty one players was a good turnout  today considering many of our regulars played yesterday at Penrith. John Wraight took first prize with 39 points (11 - 7) and Steve Whitehead's 38 moving his handicap south again (19 - 16).

Penrith v Sandpipers Result

A satisfying way to end the season with a 5.5 - 2.5 over Dads Army on their home turf. The course was in good condition, the weather stayed fair and a good meal to finish. 

Saunders Cup Result

Twenty six took part today in pleasant conditions. Gary Blackley came second with 38 point after a back nine count back (18 - 17) and David Low won the trophy with 39 points (12 - 10).

Please remember to return trophies asap for engraving and presentation at our AGM. 

Banks Trophy Result

The 11.00 gloom turned into a decent day made more difficult by the NE wind. Vince Ross prevailed with 39 points (6 - 4) and myself second with 37 (21 - 20), everyone playing off 95% handicap. This Thursday the course is closed for the Seniors Open with Roger, Willie and John Gibson in charge of recording all the results and whose efforts bring a tremendous benefit to the Sandpipers' coffers.

Next Tuesday is the Saunders Cup, another handicap qualifying competition.

Penrith v Sandpipers Team

 Wednesday 24th August

Dress: Smart Casual

09-30 D Frith  ( C ) / O Swift

09-40 V Ross / J Johnson

09-50 T Davis / T Bunn          

10-00 G Fisher / D Wood

10-10 T Borthwick / T Herbert

10-20 P Taylor / J Parker

10-30 S Whitehead / J Holmes

10-40 G Anderson / E Varah

Reserves: C Campbell

This is our last match of the season and so far we have lost 5 away games out of 5 !!!

Thursday 11th August

Another scorcher with cloudless skies for the twenty two players to enjoy. David Low won with 40 points and myself second with 39.

Next Tuesday is the J Banks stableford qualifier, Thursday the course is closed for the seniors' open and the following Tuesday the R Saunders Trophy.

Brian has requested those holding trophies please return them asap for engraving.

Sandpipers v Penrith Result

A disappointing 3.5 - 4.5 defeat today but the glorious conditions made it worth turning out. Everyone sat outside afterwards and nobody seemed to miss the lack of catering. 

We had six changes to the original team selection for various reasons so it would help Joe if those who do not normally put their names forward would append their names to the sheet, indicating they would be prepared to step in as a reserve if required. 

Carrick Trophy Result

Martin Fouracre continued his winning streak with 40 points in the face of a strong west wind (25 - 23) with second placed David Low five points behind (18 - 17). Only fifteen played probably due to the poor forecast. This Thursday the course is closed for the UK Seniors Open and next Tuesday is our home match against Penrith.

Sandpipers v Penrith Team

Tuesday 9th August

Dress: Smart Casual

10-30 D Frith ( C ) / T Davis      

10-40 J Parker / T Herbert    

10-50 G McKellar / J Holmes    

11-00 D Low / C Black      

11-10 J Johnson / D Wood      

11-20 B Taylor / T Borthwick      

11-30 O Swift / H Wright

11-40 I Johnson / V Ross

No Reserves

The 11.50 and 12.00 tee times are reserved for Sandpipers who wish to play on the day.

Thursday 28th July

Perhaps the poor forecast kept people away but the eighteen that turned up enjoyed mostly pleasant conditions. Martin Fouracre's 39 took first place (29 - 25) and Tony Davis' best of three 38's (18 - 15) came second.

Next Thursday the Club hosts the UK Seniors Open.

R Thompson Trophy Result

Congratulations to Eddie Varah and Phillip Curran for their nett 65 and 66 scores respectively from a field of twenty five. 

Back to stableford qualifying competition next Tuesday for the Carrick Memorial Trophy and commiserations to Clive and Gilmour who have both gone down with the bug.

Powfoot Match Result

The bad news from Powfoot encounter was 6-2 to them...but an excellent buffet and sociability. 

Jim Johnson

Tuesday 26th Reminder

Just to remind everyone that next Tuesday is the R Thompson qualifying competition and is also our only medal outing.

Thursday 14th July

Blustery conditions again and a win for Gary Blackley with Bob Finlinson runner up.

Next week the course is closed but on Monday our team are away to Powfoot. 

Eilbeck Trophy Result

Twenty six competed for John Eilbeck's trophy with three tying on 34 points off 95% handicap. Bob Finlinson was the best on countback with John Fulton edging out Gerry Fisher. 

Powfoot v Sandpipers Team

Monday 18th July

Dress: Smart Casual

11-00 G Anderson( C ) / R Cutts

11-10 C Campbell / O Swift

11-20 T Davis / T Borthwick            

11-30 E Varah / C Black

11-40 D Frith / T Herbert

11-50 P Taylor / V Ross

12-00 G Fisher / J Holmes

12-10 J Gibson / J Parker

No Reserves

Workington Match Result

On paper we had a fairly strong team playing for the Shanks Trophy so getting stuffed by 6.5 - 1.5 came as a surprise. The weather was kind and the course and food good.

Tomorrow is the Eilbeck Trophy qualifying competition.

Amended Workington Team

Monday 11th July

Dress: Smart Casual

09-30 B Taylor ( C ) / J Holmes

09-40 J Gibson / D Frith

09-50 J Parker / G Fisher          

10-00 T Bunn / G Mc Kellar

10-10 D Wood / C Black

10-20 T Borthwick / S Whitehead

10-30 T Davis / I Johnson

10-40 H Wright / J Wraight

Seascale Match Result

The Sandpipers scraped through 4.5 - 3.5 and congratulations to Jim Johnson for staying back to record the scores. The question is, did it make much difference to the day not having a meal after the match? 

Carris Trophy

No doubt you'll all have read the latest news bulletin from the Club and appeal for volunteers to assist with the various duties. An opportunity for those not away that week to append their names to slots that need filling and earn brownie points for the Sandpipers. 

Tuesday 4th July

Great day for golf, especially for Jon Parker with 43 points (27 - 21) and second placed Clark Black with 40 (15 - 11). Three of us got two shots back. Twenty five played.

A reminder for those playing for the Sandpipers against Seascale on Thursday that although there is no catering following each match our players are expected to offer hospitality in the lounge to their opponents.

Workington v Sandpipers Team

Monday 11th July

Dress: Smart Casual

09-30 B Taylor ( C ) / J Holmes

09-40 J Gibson / D Frith

09-50 J Parker / G Fisher          

10-00 T Bunn / G Mc Kellar

10-10 D Wood / C Black

10-20 T Borthwick / S Whitehead

10-30 T Davis / I Johnson

10-40 H Wright / J Wraight

Please note we are one player short and have no reserves.

Thursday 30th June

Thanks to Willie for providing the following report.

Pleasant playing conditions, although not reflected in the scores.

23 played.

Eddie Varah's (Sandpiper) handicap goes up from 15 to 17.

Runner-up - Owen Swift who had another good round with 35 points and his (Sandpiper) handicap reduces further from 26 to 25.

Winner, and in a class of his own with 39 points, was Bob Finlinson whose (Sandpiper) handicap reduces from 19 to 15.

Sandpipers v Seascale Team

 Thursday 7th July

Dress: Smart Casual

10-30 J Johnson ( C ) / T Bunn

10-40 T Davis / O Swift

10-50 P Taylor / W Smith          

11-00 G Anderson / C Black

11-10 B Taylor / D Frith

11-20 D Wood / J Shaw

11-30 T Neilly / J Parker

11-40 E Varah / J Holmes

No Reserves

Tuesday 28th June

Twelve brave souls found the weather to be not quite as bad as forecast with Owen Swift's 37 points winnings going towards his recent golf lesson (29 - 26) and John Parker second with 36 (29 - 27). Thanks to Gilmour for his photo of what used to be a nice tidy results sheet.

Covid

Looks like I won't be around for a few days after having tested positive this morning. Don't feel too ill, just chesty and no appetite so hopefully back soon.

Thursday 23rd June

Another real summer's day for twenty five players to enjoy. Gilmour McKellar excelled with 42 points (15 - 9) and in form Peter Taylor second with 36 (7 - 5).

Congratulations to sandpiper Andy Edwards for his hole in one on the twelfth and appreciation for his generosity paying for a drink for everyone that came into the lounge.

Brampton Match Result

An excellent day with good company, a well manicured course and good food at a very reasonable price. Unfortunately it was a reversal of our home score with a 3 - 5 loss. Our next matches are against Seascale 7th July and away against Workington 11th July. Sheets for players who wish to play are on the notice board.

Anderson 5 Clubs Result

Peter Taylor celebrated his birthday with an excellent 40 points win (9 - 7) edging out Jim Shaw on countback (23 - 22). Four players handicaps increased and twenty six took part in fairly calm conditions. 

Brampton Slope Rating

For anyone who wants to calculate their handicap to play the yellow tees in our match at Brampton on Wednesday, the yellow tee rating is 138 which means several of us receive an extra shot. This will be amended assuming Brampton wish to use the 90% rule and both calculations will be on the team sheets available on the day. Our stroke allowances are correct as of today at 4pm.

Sandpipers v Powfoot Result

Another good result with a 4.5 - 3.5 win in very favourable weather conditions. 

Next Tuesday is the Anderson 5 Clubs  competition and Wednesday our away match against Brampton.

Brampton v Sandpipers Team

Wednesday 22nd June

Dress: Smart Casual

09-30 D Wood ( C ) / J Gibson

09-40 T Borthwick / G Anderson

09-50 P Curran / B Taylor

10-00 C Black / S Whitehead

10-10 P Taylor / C Campbell

10-20 R Cutts / D Frith

10-30 O Swift / G Fisher

10-40 J Johnson / T Bunn

Reserves: J Parker, W Smith, G McKellar 

Walters Cup Winners

Twenty four took part in the drawn pairs greensomes  with Tim Herbert and Steve Whitehead clear winners with 46 points. 

Brampton Match Result

Another satisfying 5 - 3 win  at home for our team today in blustery conditions and thanks to the substitutes for filling vacancies. The return match is on Wednesday 22nd June.

Next Tuesday is the Walters Cup Greensomes.

Sandpipers v Powfoot Team

Thursday 16th June

Dress: Smart Casual

10-30 G Anderson (C) / T Borthwick

10-40 D Frith / J Johnson

10-50 C Campbell / O Swift            

11-00 J Gibson / W Smith

11-10 J Holmes / T Davis

11-20 P Taylor / S Whitehead

11-30 G Fisher / J Parker

11-40 T Herbert / T Neilly

Reserves: T Bunn, D Wood 

Stroke Allowances

Following yesterday's qualifying competition, eight Sandpipers have their yellow tee stroke allowance increased and two have lost a shot so please check you are playing off the correct handicap next time you tee up.

Norton Cup Result

Twenty nine enjoyed  perfect conditions today, Brian Taylor winning the cup with 43 points (12 - 10) and Terry Bunn second with 40 (14 - 13). Steve Whitehead gets two shots back. No doubt several WHS indexes will be altered.

Home Match Tee Times

Just a note for those not selected for home match teams, as we now only use eight slots from 10.30am there are two unused reserved times 11.50 and 12.00 for Sandpipers rather than use the BRS system to book a time. 

Thursday 2nd June

Hard to believe that out of twenty eight entries in today's benign conditions two 34s took first and second places, Jim Shaw (25 - 23) won on countback over second placed Joe Campbell (30 - 29). Several players get two shots back. Good to see David Holdridge manage to get a game with us again.

Next Tuesday we play for the John Norton Cup and Thursday is our home match against Brampton for which we only have one reserve.

Tuesday 31st May

Just one short shower put a damper on today's outing for the twenty three players. Terry Bunn won with 38 points (18 - 14) beating John Wraight (10 - 7) on a back six countback. Joe  Holmes, John Parker and Eddie Varah all get shots back. Although Thursday is the start of the Queen's Jubilee  our normal tee time is reserved for anyone that wants to turn up.

I'll be publishing our weekly results sheet with updated handicaps etc occasionally. The link  is in the side panel.

Sandpipers v Brampton Team

Thursday 9th June

Dress: Smart Casual

10-30 D Wood (C) / J Holmes

10-40 J Gibson / J Johnson

10-50 T Bunn / J Parker             

11-00 S Whitehead / V Ross

11-10 B Taylor / R Cutts

11-20 P Taylor / E Varah

11-30 T Davis / T Herbert

11-40 D Frith / G Anderson

Reserve: T Neilly 

Jubilee Garden Party

Dear Friends

We are having a garden open afternoon (with NGS) on Sunday 5 June, 1 - 5.30pm. 

Vintage cars on display and Philippa, family and friends will be giving us tea and locally home made cakes in the courtyard.

Do please come if you can.
Best wishes
Charles and Philippa
Quarry Hill House, Boltongate, Mealsgate CA7 1AE

Workington Match Result

Unfortunately I was unable to stay for captain John Gibson's victory speech announcing a 5 - 3 win on our home course, welcome news after our recent series of defeats. Tommy Neilly seems to have recovered and is being kept in hospital for observation having carried his playing partner to three up by the thirteenth.

Tuesday 24th May

Thirty turned out today to enjoy the high wind and occasional heavy shower. Clive Milburn won with 35 points (18 - 16) and Arthur Thompson's 34 taking second place (28 - 27) with an eagle on the seventeenth.

Thursday is our home match against Workington so anyone not in our team wishing to play should book their own tee time. 

Thursday 19th May

 Just sixteen played today which was not surprising after our trip to Woll yesterday. Jim Shaw took first place with 40 points (30 - 25) and in form Malcolm Platts second with 36 (19 - 17) . Conditions were difficult on the front nine with a strong west wind. Anyone wishing to play next Thursday will need to book their own tee time as we have a home match against Workington.

Sandpipers v Workington Team

Thursday 26th May

Dress: Smart Casual

10.30 J Gibson (C) / G Fisher

10.40 T Davis / T Neilly

10.50 E Varah / J Wraight              

11.00 R Cutts / T Bunn

11.10 J Holmes / Gilfillan

11.20 P Taylor / D Frith

11.30 D Wood / O Swift

11.40 J Parker / T Borthwick

Reserves  S Whitehead, W Smith, J Johnson, J Shaw, T Herbert 

Tuesday 17th May

Colin Campbell recovered sufficiently from yesterday's soaking to win with 34 points (17 - 15) and Malcolm Platts second with 33 (20 - 19). Not surprisingly only fourteen played with several regulars still drying their gear out ready for tomorrow's trip to Wall GC. 

Carlisle Match Result

Persistent  heavy rain made today's golf a miserable experience especially as Carlisle claimed most of the abandoned games leaving us with a 1.5 - 6.5 loss.

Tomorrow will mainly be spent drying out equipment ready for our away day's outing to Woll GC on Wednesday.

Thursday 12th May

Thirty took part today and once again it was a battle against the west wind. Martin Fouracre continued his winning streak with 35 points (29 - 27) just beating second placed Peter Taylor (10 - 9) on the back nine.

Five players have got shots back so please check handicaps on Tuesday.

Monday is our away match against Carlisle and a reminder from Joe that those on our away day at Woll GC should arrive by 10.00am for refreshments and the draw. First tee time is 11.00am. The yellow tee slope rating is 125.

Sowerby Trophy Result

A low centre of gravity was an advantage in today's howling west wind with only five of the twenty one entries equal to or better than 30 points. Gilmour McKellar's 34 (15 - 13) was enough to win and David Low second with 31 (15 - 14). Jim Shaw, Eddie Varah and Harry Wright all got shots back.

Carlisle v Sandpipers Team

Monday 16th May

Dress: Smart Casual

09-30    T Davis ( C ) / T Bunn

09-40    J Parker / G Anderson

09-50    G Fisher / G McKellar

10-00    E Varah / J Holmes

10-10    C Campbell / J Gilfillan

10-20    V Ross / O Swift

10-30    D Wood / D Frith

10-40    P Taylor /  R Cutts

Reserves:  P Curran, J Gibson, J Johnson. 

Thursday 5th May

Hard to believe that out of twenty seven players David Low's 34 points (17 - 15) was  good enough to win in conditions that weren't too difficult. Peter Taylor's best back nine of several 33 points (11 - 10) won him second place.

Next Tuesday we play for the Sowerby Memorial Trophy with entries via the touch screen.

Handicap Adjustments

I've just updated the results sheet and found that from the Club's handicap indexes that thirteen of our members have had their yellow tee stoke allowances adjusted by one or more shots. Please check on Thursday so we don't have any cock ups with cards for Gilmour's aggregate competition.

John Todd Shield Result

Surprisingly, considering the flat calm conditions today only four players scored more than thirty six points. Arthur Thompson won the shield with 39 points (31 - 29) and Joe Holmes second with 38 (18 - 17).

Due to lack of interest Brian Taylor is contacting Penrith seniors to inform them we will not be sending a team for their inter club competition.

Thursday 28th April

Jim Johnson will be smiling with his winning 43 points and everyone else smiling to see he's been docked six shots (24 - 18). Having a decent second place round myself with 39 points loses me three shots (21 - 18).

A reminder that next Tuesday is the handicap qualifier John Todd Shield with entries via the touchscreen.

Seascale Match Result

I'm informed that our team enjoyed their day despite a 5 - 4 loss with decent weather and a good meal afterwards. Seascale requested we add another pairing and the suspicion could be that they included a couple of ringers.

Twelve played at Silloth, Bob Finlinson cleaned up with 38 points.

Next Tuesday we play for the John Todd Shield.

Thursday 21st April

The strength of today's east wind was reflected in twenty five of the twenty six scores of which Gilmour McKellar's (16 - 15) 34 points took second place but eclipsed by Harry Wright whose 43 cost him 6 shots (27 = 21).

Next Tuesday our team play Seascale away but we still have a reduced number of tee times for anyone wanting an unofficial knock around.

Handicaps

Having just updated the results sheet that will be going on the notice board tomorrow I notice that several members' stroke indexes have been adjusted by enough to alter their yellow tee stroke allowances. This follows Tuesday's qualifying competition so please check your handicap prior to teeing off. 

G.Doughty Cup Result

Thirty three took part today in sunny conditions that turned cool. Gary Blackley came good on the day with 42 points (20 - 18) and Joe Holmes second with 39 (19 - 18). All played off 95% of stroke allowance.

Congratulations to Gerry Fisher for a hole in one on the ninth.

Next Tuesday, sixteen will be away playing our fixture against Seascale. 

Thursday 14th April

Martin Fouracre had his nice new handicap clipped by three shots (32 - 29) today with his 37 points win in today's ideal conditions. Gilmour McKellar (18 - 16) was runner up with 36. Bob Finlinson, John Gibson and myself got two shots back. Twenty six played which meant we filled all our allocated tee slots.

Next Tuesday we play for the handicap qualifying George Doughty Cup.

Handicaps etc.

I've just updated my record of everyone's yellow tee allowances following Tuesday's competition and several have been adjusted so please check your WHS index.

John Parker volunteered to extend the J Todd shield for further names and below is a photo of the excellent job he has made of it.

Cooper Trophy Result

 I understand seventeen took part in horrendous conditions. Vince Ross (4 - 2) and Gerry Fisher  (11 - 9) were the winning pair with a total of 63 point and special thanks to Gary Blackley who stood aside to leave an even number for the draw.

Cooper Trophy

Unfortunately I can't make it tomorrow so David Frith has kindly agreed to organise the draw etc.

John Cooper Trophy

 The John Cooper Trophy is a handicap qualifying competition in which, although played as a drawn pairs where individual points are combined, individual scores are recorded via the touch screen therefore the 95% stroke allowance applies. Please enter the total strokes for each hole and the programme will calculate the points.

Seascale v Sandpipers Team

Tuesday 26th April 

Dress: Smart Casual

09.30 J Gibson (C) /  H Wright

09.40 J Parker /  S Whitehead

09.50 J Holmes /  T Borthwick                

10.00 D Frith / G Fisher

10.10 C Black / G Mc Kellar

10.20 R Cutts / G Anderson

10.30 O Swift / I Hind

10.40 T Davis / P Taylor

10.50        J Wraight / J Johnson

Reserves: T.Herbert 

Tuesday 7th April

Grotty describes today's conditions, windy, cold and damp. Twenty one took part with two championship ties being played. Malcolm Platts came second with 35 points (21 - 20) and Owen Swift winning with 36 (27 - 24). Next Tuesday is the John Cooper Trophy which is a drawn pairs stableford combined scores.

Carlisle Match Result

Miserable conditions today, rain was limited to a light drizzle but a strong west wind made for difficult  scoring. Captain Gilmour led our team to a 3.5 - 4.5 loss but all the matches were played in a friendly atmosphere and finished off with the usual high standard of refreshments provided by Liam and his staff.

Covid Notice

Tony Davis has unfortunately had a positive test today and advises his Thursday playing partners and everyone else he came into contact with to keep an eye out for symptoms.

Sandpipers v Carlisle Team

Tuesday 5th April

Dress: Smart Casual

10.30 G McKellar (C) /  S Whitehead

10.40 T Bunn /  V Ross

10.50 J Shaw / C Campbell               

11.00 B Taylor / J Johnson

11.10 T Neilly / R Cutts

11.20 P Taylor / G Fisher

11.30 D Wood / J Parker

11.40 J Gilfillan / O Swift

Reserves:  G Anderson, E Varah, J Holmes 

For anybody who didn't get an email, an electric trolley was left after everybody had gone last Thursday.

Thursday 31st March

A cold strong north wind today but fortunately only minor  touches of hailstones. Twenty five took part, Eddie Varah winning with 41 points (14 - 9) and John Parker second with 38 (25 - 22).

The championship draw is now on the notice board` with the play-by dates. It is strongly recommended that all qualifiers study the rules.

Next Tuesday is our match against Carlisle so those not in the team should make their own tee reservations if they wish to play on that date.

The most important event today was Tony Davis' generosity by inviting all the Sandpipers to help him celebrate his birthday.

Championship Qualifier

Although fog delayed the start until midday, twenty eight enjoyed calm and warm conditions. John Wraight had the best score with 42 points (10 - 8) and Brian Taylor the best of three 39s for second (9 - 8).

Colin Cambell and David Low's handicaps increased by two. All sixteen of 34 and above qualified for the knockout stages.

Reminders

A couple of reminders that the clocks go forward this weekend and that Tuesday 29th is our Championship Qualifier. It's a handicap qualifier so enter via the touchscreen and please indicate beforehand if you do not wish to be included in the top 16 playoffs. 

Thursday 24th March

An exceptional day both for the conditions and having a birthday and a hole in one to celebrate. Gilmour celebrated his birthday and Steve Whitehead for his ace on the shortened second hole. Those of the twenty two who played were very appreciative of their generosity in the lounge.

Although Steve received 5 points on the second he was held to second plane (17 - 13) by Vince Ross (9 - 4) who had the better back nine of their 40 points.

Tuesday 22nd March

Twenty five played today and no exceptional scores despite benign conditions. Clark Black won with 38 points (15 - 11) and Malcolm Platts second with 37 (26 - 24).

Joe Campbell celebrated another significant birthday today and generously bought a drink for those who came into the lounge for the apres golf to mark the occasion.

Thursday 17th March

A miserable, windy day but luckily the rain stopped before our first tee time and came in again once the last group finished.

Eighteen played and the conditions were reflected in the scores, Grant Anderson coming second with 32 (19 - 18) and Steve Whitehead winning with 36 (20 - 17). 

Tuesday 15th March

A great day to play golf today, reasonably warm and a light breeze. Twenty six played with Steve Whitehead's 39  taking 2nd place (23 - 20) and Bob Finlinson winning with 42 (21 - 15). The sheet for those who wish to play in our home match against Carlisle is on the notice board.

Starting a new results sheet today, twenty five of forty eight registered members are playing off less than their official club handicap

Thursday League Results

Our blog has been updated to include a link in the sidebar that opens a pdf results page in your browser showing an update for each Thursday (probably a couple of days later). Thanks to Gilmour for providing the info.

Thursday 10th March

Welcome to new member Martin Fouracre who joined today and is hoping to gain an official handicap in the near future. Today's conditions deteriorated from not too bad to cold and windy by half way round and reflected in the scores. Twenty four played, Vince Ross came second with 37 points on countback (11 - 9) and myself winning with 39 (21 - 17).

Keighley Competition Result

The club Secretary had to get into the inner workings of the BRS system to allow the result to be published and you will all now be aware looking at the list that the 95% allowance officially recorded has made a difference to the result and possibly to some members' WHS index's.

Joe has spent ages putting everyone's scores into the system. Hopefully everything will be sorted by Thursday. I understand twenty six played in trying conditions with Jim Shaw a clear winner.

Tuesday 8th Reminder

Don't forget to register your entry on the touch screen before going out for the Keighley Bogey Competition and also to remind everyone that we have now reverted to our summer start time of 11am.

Covid Alert

John Wraight advises that although he tested clear yesterday he now feels a bit off colour and is now positive. This information is directed particularly at those he was in contact with on Tuesday 1st March. 

Thursday 3rd March

Today's forecast might have put a few off but conditions were calm and mild with only a little light drizzle. Gilmour excelled with 39 points (18 - 14) and 10 points in the inaugural Thursday points competition. Clark Black was runner up with 36 (15 - 13).

Next Tuesday is the Bernard Keighley Bogey Competition .

Tuesday 1st March

First of all, welcome to our new member Owen Swift.

Twenty seven in nine teams of three played in the Texas Scramble with Lynn Hopkins, Eddie Varah and their anchor Alan Proud winning with a nett 59.

Sad to report that long time member Joe Penrice's good lady passed away recently. I've sent a card of condolence on behalf of all the Sandpipers.

This Thursday is the start of the cumulative points competition. It is included as part of our normal social days and details are on the notice board. Gilmour will collect completed cards and calculate the winning six players whose extra points will be added to the four points every player on the day receives.

Texas Scramble

 In order to limit damage to the fairways with 3 or 4 all playing from the same place your committee has requested we use mats for the competition although the Club does not require them now.

Also thanks to those who have volunteered to look after things in my temporary absence.

Tuesday 15th February

Twenty eight of us got out today before the weather closes in for the rest of the week. The strong wind kept the scores low, Jim Shaw winning with 37 points (30 - 27) and Tom Borthwick second with 34 (13 - 12). Charles has had a successful hip replacement and now joins our bionic section. 

Thursday 10th February

Just seventeen started out today and surprisingly in the 30mph bitterly cold wind everybody finished.

Colin Campbell held it together with a winning 36 points (17 - 14) and I don't have second placed David Low's score but it cost him one shot (12 - 11).

Gilmour and John Parker are colluding on the new Thursday aggregate score records which will run from March, designed to encourage attendance and give a cash prize at our annual prize giving. Details are published on our notice board.

Tuesday 8th February

A bad hair day for me, putting the wrong ball in the chute for myself, having to retire after four  holes and nit putting my £1 in the kitty.

Thanks to John Gibson for forwarding the results.

1st J Parker 40pts now playing off 21

2nd S Whitehead 39pts now playing off 21

19 Played

Thursday 3rd February

Just sixteen faced today's strong wind with David Low's winning 38 points (16 - 12) and David Holdridge treating everyone to a drink on his last day with us and enjoying second place with 35 (22 - 21). 

Tuesday 1st February

Another two exceptional scores today in quite windy conditions. Terry Bunn came second with 40 points (15 - 11) and even more impressive, Peter Taylor with 42 (11 - 5). 

Ian Hind, David Holdridge, Eddie Varah, Steve Whitehead, Charles Woodhouse and myself get two shots back each. If anyone has not ordered their match shirts and jumpers the list is being taken down on Thursday and the order placed.

Finally, we're sorry to lose David Holdridge to gainful employment but he will turn up on Thursday rain or shine to say to say goodbye. 

Thursday 27th January

Brian Taylor blew the rest of the field away with 44 points today (16 - 9), five better than second placed Bob Finlinson (22 - 19). Peter Taylor, Jim Gilfillan and Roger Cutts gained two shots each. 

Sandpipers Web Site

 I finally got round to updating our web site with this year's competitions, matches and a photo gallery of 2021 prize giving.

http://www.sunside.co.uk/sandpipers

Obviously things may change at short notice which will be published here.

Just one note, I had to delete the cache images in Chrome for it to display properly but it didn't affect MS Edge.

Tuesday 25th January

Scoring seems to be improving with only three of today's twenty four players returning less than 30 points in gloomy conditions. Jim Shaw continues his points streak with a second placed 40 (32 - 28) but the all star is David Frith with 41 points (15 - 10).

Congratulations to Sandy Tonner who is 80 today. What a pity we didn't have his bar card number to help him celebrate.

Thursday 20th January

 Another bright calm day and an unusual result with the four 37s and the winner decided by the best score on the 18th hole. That was John Gibson (15 - 12) with Gerry Fisher (11 - 9) just missing out. Just seventeen played today and the feeling is that we play 3 balls where possible to maximise use of our tee allowance.

With lower numbers on Thursdays generally, Gilmour has volunteered to run a Thursday cumulative points based league (suggested winner gets 10 points, 10th gets 1 point) to encourage more players. Probably commencing when we come off mats (covid permitting).

Tuesday 18th January

Twenty two played in today's cool conditions with Steve Whitehead and newly recovered (nearly) John Parker gaining two shots each. Some really good scores with Arthur Thompson the best back nine of three 41s for second place (33 - 29) and myself winning with 45 (24 - 17).

A bit of sad news, one of our regular supporters is returning to full time employment in early February. I'm sure we all wish David Houldridge all the best in his new venture.

Thursday 13th Junuary

Congratulations to Roger Cutts for a well deserved win today with 39 points (31 - 27) and to serial winner Jim Shaw for his second placed 37 (34 - 32). Seventeen turned out in ideal conditions for the time of year. As several of our members are regularly registering cards for handicap, please advise me of adjustments as I can't keep track on a daily basis.

Tuesday 11th January

First of all welcome to new member Clark Black, a new recruit for the Celts. Secondly, congratulations to Jim Shaw for a winning 39 points (38 - 34) and David Low's 37 (16 - 14). Gilmour informs me that all is well with him, Clive hopes to be back in the near future but Ian Porter is struggling post covid.

At the turn of the year 20 of the current 46 paid up members were playing below their official handicap, a tribute to our levelling up system.

Team Shirts and Jumpers

Joe asks me to inform everyone that the list for match apparel will be taken down at the end of the month so please append names asap to avoid disappointment. 

Tuesday 4th January

Two very good scores from the twenty one who played in today's bright, chilly and windy conditions.

Ian Hind started the new year with 41 points (28 - 23) and Colin Campbell with 40 (21 - 17).

Spare a thought for Ian Porter who went to Carlisle hospital for tests and came out a few days later with Covid. I understand Clive Milburn is in post op recovery and John Parker is still struggling following damaging a tendon in his leg the other week.