The 2020 golfing season has been very different to what we’re used to, it’s been challenging to arrange and to compete in. It’s not going to be a year we forget quickly.
The season got off to the usual start and our golfing calendar was full. We played our first drawn medal on the 21st March, then the lockdown happened and it stopped us from playing golf altogether. We frustratingly watched the public treat our beloved Links as a public park and some of our bunkers didn’t hold up too well to the treatment they received. I walked the course many times and it was strange to see the grass on the fairways so long! A huge thanks must go to our green keeping staff who, during this entire time, carried out essential course maintenance under difficult conditions.
We were excited to return to the Links at the end of May albeit with restrictions: we could only play in 2s, and after another dry spell the course was burnt, playing hard and fast. We all had to get used to putting with the flag in and were grateful of preferred lies in the bunkers. We were glad to be back though.
Sports put together a reduced fixture list based on the restrictions we had to adhere to, prioritising our competitions, and taking into account a shortened season. Competitive golf restarted on the 4th June. We asked you to submit your scores electronically, some used email others used the phone app, and some found that easier than others, but we got there in the end.
Over the next 5 months 62 competitions were completed and over 2,800 scores were processed. The highlight of the year is always the Baird Cup, and this year was no different – both rounds were well supported and finals’ day produced worthy champions.
I’m pleased with what the Sports committee have achieved this year; huge thanks must go to Jim & Scott for their hard work. We’ve learned from the mistakes we made, we’ve always tried our best for our members and we continue to strive to do better. I thank you for your patience and appreciate the support you have given the committee this year.
On behalf of the Sports Committee I wish you and your family a safe Christmas and a better 2021, on and off the golf course.
Gouff Dings A
Ed
Yours in Gouff
Sports Committee
Ed Rankine
Jim Soutar