CAPTAINS CHRONICLES – COPTHORNE GOLF CLUB THE HAMCHEM TANKARD 01/05/2015 Our fourth event of the year was the much anticipated Hamchem Tankard. The venue was Copthorne golf club which has been off the BTU calendar for quite some time. We were greeted by the course manager who made us very welcome and made us aware of the various changes that had been made to the course. Coffee and tea was accompanied by lovely bacon baguettes which were a good start for the 18 holes to come. My playing partners for the day were Dave Hawkins, Brian Kane and the old man, Brian was in a fair bit of pain even before we started due to his ongoing sciatica ,beware of the injured golfer sprang to mind! The course was in good condition although the greens were slightly indifferent in pace they were 100 times better than Dale Hill. As we fought our way round we all agreed that Copthorne presents a good test of golf with every hole different. Anyway after 4 hours of excellent company and some great golf it was time to sign our cards. Captain 30 points, Brian and Dave each with 29 points and Peter 21 points. Considering the discomfort Brian was in 29 points was outstanding. Peter did his best to come last but alas just like Redlibbets Alan Tyrell beat him again. The dinner served was excellent with generous portions of roast beef and all the trimmings with Mike Walker having seconds of everything! After dinner and when all the prizes were handed out, I awarded Mr Graham with the Bog Trophy, his face said it all, sorry Paul there has to be a winner! Mr Hammond senior took over as fines czar and with Dave Hawkins by his side collected £42 for charity. The nearest the pin winner was: 12th – Mr D Hawkins The longest drive winner was : 18th ‐ Mr D Gustave The winners for the day were as follows: 1st – Mr D Gustave with 38 points 2nd Mr A Bathurst with 33 points 3rd Mr N Edwards with 31 points Again many thanks to our very generous hosts for the day Hamchem for all of the prizes and drinks and Mr graham supplying the wine for the nearest the pin and longest drive prizes. Also I hope we return to Copthorne in the near future as I thought the Hospitality, food and the course were superb. I look forward to seeing everyone at our next meeting at Tyrells Wood Golf Club for the Airconaire shield on the 22nd of May. Yours in Golf Captain Hammond