What is F.I.G.S?
F.I.G.S stands for Forrester's Inner Golf Society. Membership is open to anyone who would like to join, upon payment of a one-off £10 fee. Our current membership is predominately FP members, but also includes friends and past club members.
The society was set up many years ago when our own course was difficult to play in winter conditions - members organised a day's golf at neighbouring clubs, particularly towards the Essex/Suffolk border, where the natural soil was sandier and generally drained better. The present format is to play one course per month, October through April, 18 holes preceded by a full English breakfast. There is a prize pool on each day, and a leaderboard culminating in a final's day in April with a trophy for the overall winner.
Each spring, there is a 'tour' comprising four day's golf either in the UK or abroad (typically France or Belgium). Details of both the current winter programme and the tour are posted below. Additional information is also available on dedicated Whatsapp group(s).
If you would like to join and play, or for more information,
contact David Gillespie (01621 891001 / 07711 940811 / [email protected]).
The society was set up many years ago when our own course was difficult to play in winter conditions - members organised a day's golf at neighbouring clubs, particularly towards the Essex/Suffolk border, where the natural soil was sandier and generally drained better. The present format is to play one course per month, October through April, 18 holes preceded by a full English breakfast. There is a prize pool on each day, and a leaderboard culminating in a final's day in April with a trophy for the overall winner.
Each spring, there is a 'tour' comprising four day's golf either in the UK or abroad (typically France or Belgium). Details of both the current winter programme and the tour are posted below. Additional information is also available on dedicated Whatsapp group(s).
If you would like to join and play, or for more information,
contact David Gillespie (01621 891001 / 07711 940811 / [email protected]).
Winter Season 2023-24
The programme of events is now complete. With most members now on the Society's WhatsApp group, please go there to read / see the latest news. If you are not on the group yet, please contact me and I'll add you forthwith.
A list of Fixtures with confirmed dates (but provisional timings, depending upon numbers, weather conditions, etc.) can be viewed here.
The Entrants List with dates and venues can be viewed via this link - it is updated constantly and can be seen in 'real time'. If you spot an error, please let me know and I'll correct it straightaway.
Payment System: The system we used last year worked well and we propose to use it again - details can be seen here. Essentially, to play in an event, you will need to have paid in advance to the society’s bank account and we in turn will settle our account at the venue with a card payment. It is still our aim to pay prizes in cash, and not having to handle cash on the day continues to simplify the ‘checking-in’ process before breakfast.
Communication: With FP's clubhouse keeping irregular hours and without our dedicated FIGS Section on a noticeboard, we're continuing with Email and the FIGS WhatsApp group – if you would like to be included, please contact me and confirm your address and/or mobile number. Telephone – I don’t mind being called at any reasonable time, although I prefer the messaging formats (including texts) since it’s there in black and white! Finally, there's this FIGS tab within the FP Men's Section website.
Numbers & Entrants: Please advise me if you wish to play in an event - you can do this on an event-by-event basis, or 'pre-book' as many in advance as you wish - recent experience has shown events can quickly become fully subscribed! If you cannot subsequently play, please advise me with reasonable notice so you won't be charged and maybe someone else will have the opportunity to take part. The maximum number per event is usually 36, after which requests to play will be added to a reserve list in order of receipt. The final number will be decided with regard to available tee-times and daylight.
A list of Fixtures with confirmed dates (but provisional timings, depending upon numbers, weather conditions, etc.) can be viewed here.
The Entrants List with dates and venues can be viewed via this link - it is updated constantly and can be seen in 'real time'. If you spot an error, please let me know and I'll correct it straightaway.
Payment System: The system we used last year worked well and we propose to use it again - details can be seen here. Essentially, to play in an event, you will need to have paid in advance to the society’s bank account and we in turn will settle our account at the venue with a card payment. It is still our aim to pay prizes in cash, and not having to handle cash on the day continues to simplify the ‘checking-in’ process before breakfast.
Communication: With FP's clubhouse keeping irregular hours and without our dedicated FIGS Section on a noticeboard, we're continuing with Email and the FIGS WhatsApp group – if you would like to be included, please contact me and confirm your address and/or mobile number. Telephone – I don’t mind being called at any reasonable time, although I prefer the messaging formats (including texts) since it’s there in black and white! Finally, there's this FIGS tab within the FP Men's Section website.
Numbers & Entrants: Please advise me if you wish to play in an event - you can do this on an event-by-event basis, or 'pre-book' as many in advance as you wish - recent experience has shown events can quickly become fully subscribed! If you cannot subsequently play, please advise me with reasonable notice so you won't be charged and maybe someone else will have the opportunity to take part. The maximum number per event is usually 36, after which requests to play will be added to a reserve list in order of receipt. The final number will be decided with regard to available tee-times and daylight.
Winter Season 2023-24
Essendon, Thurs 26th October
Following the Tour back in May, when course conditions (especially the bunkers) were less attractive than expected, the club agreed to offer free green fees to those who played then and a discounted package for additional players. So, 34 of us returned to find the weather bright and the bunkers fully restored, although recent rain did make for some challenging shots. Not that it seemed to trouble quite a few, since a raft of good scores saw it tight at the top come the end! We noted with appreciation that never before had we welcomed an Octogenarian to our ranks and even more congratulation therefore to Phil Prior who turned in the day's winning performance with 40 points. Notable also was Clive Walby, who picked up prizes for coming 3rd with 38, and a NTP and leading his group to the team prize! Commiserations Pete Andrews, just pipped into 2nd with 39. A good start to our season, we move on to Clacton next month and no doubt even if the wind blows in from the sea, it'll blow somebody some good and up that Leaderboard. Did I say Leaderboard? See here for Essendon's final rankings.
Clacton, Thurs 16th November
A late change in the weather brought forth a few temporary greens and no buggies, but on the day, our 29 contestants mostly escaped with light rain rather than the expected monsoon. None of this hampered Simon Collins, who finished top-dog with an enviable 42 points, and he now heads the Leaderboard. Clacton once again were excellent hosts and we have decided to return for the first event of next year's winter season (provisionally October 24th 2025). Next up is Brett Vale - note this event, as usual, is on a Monday! See you there!
Brett Vale, Thurs 11th December
Seasonal pressures reduced our field somewhat to 26, but those who could make it found Brett as welcoming as ever, the weather reasonably dry and milder than expected. With all bunkers GUR, the course might have appeared easier to some, but the two leaders on the day were Jim Chisholm and Kev Royan, both on 38. It took countback ( a bit like golf's VAR...) to separate them with Jim claiming the top position. The new Leaderboard reflects a close race and all to play for as we approach 2024. Next up is Hintlesham, but time to relax and enjoy the festivities. Have a Good One, see you in the New Year!
STOP PRESS! Tues 16th Jan
Our fixture at Hintlesham on Thurs 18th Jan has been postponed until April 4th - with sub-zero temperatures, no buggies and every green a temporary, the consensus is to re-arrange for a day with better conditions and greater prospect of enjoyment. Details about April will be confirmed in due course here and on WhatsApp.
STOP PRESS! Wed 21st Feb
Our fixture tomorrow at Rushmere is postponed and now re-scheduled for March 7th. The late weather warning, and a Greenkeeper's inspection tomorrow, have combined to create too much uncertainty about course conditions, availability of buggies etc.
Rushmere, Thurs 7th March
Finally, a dry day and what a joy to play a round that didn't need waterproofs and finished with clean kit! 25 made it back to Rushmere after a long break from this friendly and pleasant club. Despite benign conditions, the average score was a relatively lowly 31, but Jim Chisholm's 37 stole the top spot - with most of the likely front-runners now having played three events, it's "all change" on the Leaderboard. However, 9 points is all that separates the current top-10 places and there's still three events to go!
Burnham is next up closely followed by (re-arranged) Hintlesham. All to play for and here's hoping more dry weather awaits to make it a close finish on our finals day at Gosfield.
Winter Season 2022-23
Gosfield 20/04/23 - The Results
ned bright and sunny, but a stiff wind and a dubious forecast would prove troublesome as the afternoon progressed. The course was pleasantly dry with generally swift greens, but the pace of play was hampered with a second Society going out ahead of ours. Nevertheless, we had 37 playing with several at least having a mathematical shot at lifting the Shield. In the end, Pete Andrews held on to his lead and his final score of 111 was enough to deny a late run from Kev Royan, whose 37 was the day's best. See here for the final standings.
Once again, we were pleased to have the company of Robert Goodwin and Dennis Cornwell, Robert presenting the Shield to Pete for his first Winter Season triumph. Elsewhere, Del Boy at the 17th, came within a whisker of a hole-in-one, to claim one of the two Four-Ball vouchers for nearest the pin.
The rain and cold wind dampened things a bit towards the end, but as always, Gosfield's amazing hospitality and splendid food rounded off the day and concluded another successful Winter Season. Financially, this has been a 'good' year with green-fees being better than expected 'post-Covid' - this should enable us to enjoy a bigger prize fund for the 2023/24 events, as we channel these extra monies back to the members. See you all in October!
Winter Season 2023-24
Essendon, Thurs 26th October
Following the Tour back in May, when course conditions (especially the bunkers) were less attractive than expected, the club agreed to offer free green fees to those who played then and a discounted package for additional players. So, 34 of us returned to find the weather bright and the bunkers fully restored, although recent rain did make for some challenging shots. Not that it seemed to trouble quite a few, since a raft of good scores saw it tight at the top come the end! We noted with appreciation that never before had we welcomed an Octogenarian to our ranks and even more congratulation therefore to Phil Prior who turned in the day's winning performance with 40 points. Notable also was Clive Walby, who picked up prizes for coming 3rd with 38, and a NTP and leading his group to the team prize! Commiserations Pete Andrews, just pipped into 2nd with 39. A good start to our season, we move on to Clacton next month and no doubt even if the wind blows in from the sea, it'll blow somebody some good and up that Leaderboard. Did I say Leaderboard? See here for Essendon's final rankings.
Clacton, Thurs 16th November
A late change in the weather brought forth a few temporary greens and no buggies, but on the day, our 29 contestants mostly escaped with light rain rather than the expected monsoon. None of this hampered Simon Collins, who finished top-dog with an enviable 42 points, and he now heads the Leaderboard. Clacton once again were excellent hosts and we have decided to return for the first event of next year's winter season (provisionally October 24th 2025). Next up is Brett Vale - note this event, as usual, is on a Monday! See you there!
Brett Vale, Thurs 11th December
Seasonal pressures reduced our field somewhat to 26, but those who could make it found Brett as welcoming as ever, the weather reasonably dry and milder than expected. With all bunkers GUR, the course might have appeared easier to some, but the two leaders on the day were Jim Chisholm and Kev Royan, both on 38. It took countback ( a bit like golf's VAR...) to separate them with Jim claiming the top position. The new Leaderboard reflects a close race and all to play for as we approach 2024. Next up is Hintlesham, but time to relax and enjoy the festivities. Have a Good One, see you in the New Year!
STOP PRESS! Tues 16th Jan
Our fixture at Hintlesham on Thurs 18th Jan has been postponed until April 4th - with sub-zero temperatures, no buggies and every green a temporary, the consensus is to re-arrange for a day with better conditions and greater prospect of enjoyment. Details about April will be confirmed in due course here and on WhatsApp.
STOP PRESS! Wed 21st Feb
Our fixture tomorrow at Rushmere is postponed and now re-scheduled for March 7th. The late weather warning, and a Greenkeeper's inspection tomorrow, have combined to create too much uncertainty about course conditions, availability of buggies etc.
Rushmere, Thurs 7th March
Finally, a dry day and what a joy to play a round that didn't need waterproofs and finished with clean kit! 25 made it back to Rushmere after a long break from this friendly and pleasant club. Despite benign conditions, the average score was a relatively lowly 31, but Jim Chisholm's 37 stole the top spot - with most of the likely front-runners now having played three events, it's "all change" on the Leaderboard. However, 9 points is all that separates the current top-10 places and there's still three events to go!
Burnham is next up closely followed by (re-arranged) Hintlesham. All to play for and here's hoping more dry weather awaits to make it a close finish on our finals day at Gosfield.
Winter Season 2022-23
Gosfield 20/04/23 - The Results
ned bright and sunny, but a stiff wind and a dubious forecast would prove troublesome as the afternoon progressed. The course was pleasantly dry with generally swift greens, but the pace of play was hampered with a second Society going out ahead of ours. Nevertheless, we had 37 playing with several at least having a mathematical shot at lifting the Shield. In the end, Pete Andrews held on to his lead and his final score of 111 was enough to deny a late run from Kev Royan, whose 37 was the day's best. See here for the final standings.
Once again, we were pleased to have the company of Robert Goodwin and Dennis Cornwell, Robert presenting the Shield to Pete for his first Winter Season triumph. Elsewhere, Del Boy at the 17th, came within a whisker of a hole-in-one, to claim one of the two Four-Ball vouchers for nearest the pin.
The rain and cold wind dampened things a bit towards the end, but as always, Gosfield's amazing hospitality and splendid food rounded off the day and concluded another successful Winter Season. Financially, this has been a 'good' year with green-fees being better than expected 'post-Covid' - this should enable us to enjoy a bigger prize fund for the 2023/24 events, as we channel these extra monies back to the members. See you all in October!
Winter Season 2021-22
Gosfield 28/04/22
31 made it to the start of our Final's Day at Gosfield, with the prospect of the closest finish to a winter season that many of us could remember! The weather was fine and no restrictions on the course. In the event, the current leader Kev Royan didn't have his best day; dark horse Carl Scarborough wasn't able to come from way back to snatch the big prize and it all hinged on a final round count-back between Mark Jeffery and John Luxford who finished on the same total of 109 points. "If only that putt had gone in..." and "only another 6 inches and I've had missed that bunker..." - such are the fine margins that determine the ultimate triumph that was secured by John.
Gosfield GC once again did us proud with an amazing post-match meal and we welcomed another new member, Steve Smith, who then managed to commit the cardinal sin of winning the day's best individual prize with 40 points. We were also honoured to host guests Dennis Cornwell and Robert Goodwin to share our excitement
The concluding position with finances will be presented at the next event in October, meanwhile it was agreed that in lieu of the usual donations to Captains' charities (and since no section Captains had been able to join the FIGS programme this year), we would send £100 via the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) to support civilians in Ukraine.
That's it, all over for another year - congrats once again to John (Lucky??) Luxford and if you want to know how close you came (or how far short you fell) to being that coveted champion, see here !
R.I.P Frank Porter
It is with much regret we note the passing of Frank, a popular and previously regular member of the FIGS family. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends, he will be much missed both in FIGS and at Forrester Park Golf Club.
31 made it to the start of our Final's Day at Gosfield, with the prospect of the closest finish to a winter season that many of us could remember! The weather was fine and no restrictions on the course. In the event, the current leader Kev Royan didn't have his best day; dark horse Carl Scarborough wasn't able to come from way back to snatch the big prize and it all hinged on a final round count-back between Mark Jeffery and John Luxford who finished on the same total of 109 points. "If only that putt had gone in..." and "only another 6 inches and I've had missed that bunker..." - such are the fine margins that determine the ultimate triumph that was secured by John.
Gosfield GC once again did us proud with an amazing post-match meal and we welcomed another new member, Steve Smith, who then managed to commit the cardinal sin of winning the day's best individual prize with 40 points. We were also honoured to host guests Dennis Cornwell and Robert Goodwin to share our excitement
The concluding position with finances will be presented at the next event in October, meanwhile it was agreed that in lieu of the usual donations to Captains' charities (and since no section Captains had been able to join the FIGS programme this year), we would send £100 via the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) to support civilians in Ukraine.
That's it, all over for another year - congrats once again to John (Lucky??) Luxford and if you want to know how close you came (or how far short you fell) to being that coveted champion, see here !
R.I.P Frank Porter
It is with much regret we note the passing of Frank, a popular and previously regular member of the FIGS family. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends, he will be much missed both in FIGS and at Forrester Park Golf Club.
Winter Season 2020-21
A full programme of events has been planned for our Winter Season 2020-21, although the pandemic is still with us and likely to remain so for some time. To keep everyone safe, we've made some amendments to how we'll be operating over the coming months! These include a 'cashless' pre-payment system, adopting the restrictions defined by England Golf and setting the standard event price at £40. The detail of these changes has been removed from this section, but is carried forward and updated in the section for 2021/22, above.
Result of Season 2019-20: As described in detail below, Mark Jeffery was declared Champion on the strength of results over five events - congratulations to Mark and we look forward to presenting him with the Trophy when we next convene.
NIGEL HOWCHIN R.I.P
It is with much regret and sadness we learned of Nigel's passing this week, after he suffered a stroke recently, but appeared to be recovering. Nigel was a past Captain, friend of Forrester Park, FIGS and to us all. He battled several challenges in his life, but always bravely and with a remarkable, cheerful spirit. Rest in peace, Nigel, our thoughts are with you and your family and your memory was honoured around the course at Hintlesham this week, and will be again during FP's club competition this Sunday (13th) at 11.00am.
ERIC BARKER R.I.P
On Friday April 30th it was announced that sadly Eric lost his battle with illness that had been so bravely and cheerfully fought over several months. All our thoughts are with his family and those who played with him regularly both at FP and FIGS. Eric was regarded universally as a friend and a gentleman and we'll miss his uncomplaining and cheeky companionship. Eric's funeral will be held on Thursday June 3rd - arrangements, including the facility to view online, are posted on the VETS website.
Final’s Day, Gosfield, Thurs. May 27th
Brilliant weather greeted us for our final event at Gosfield and the day was a fitting end to our season - 30 players took part, guests Kevin Myers, Robert Goodwin and Dennis Cornwell joined us for the post-match meal with the surroundings and arrangements superbly managed by Gosfield's attentive staff.
The day's competition saw the major placements all settled on count-back with just one point separating first and fourth, but it was David Gillespie who finally scooped the top-spot with 35 points. Realistically, only Kristian Collins was in a position to topple Clive Walby from the leader-board pole position, but with both players carding the same score, we congratulated Clive on his season's victory and the award of the Robert Goodwin Shield. The overall, final Leader-board positions can be found here.
Despite the challenges posed by the ever-changing Covid restrictions, we managed four events this season, with numbers averaging over 31 per event. A full accounting report will be presented as per usual at the start of our next series in October, when hopefully, the pandemic will be behind us and we can look forward to a full programme of FIGS golf once again.
Result of Season 2019-20: As described in detail below, Mark Jeffery was declared Champion on the strength of results over five events - congratulations to Mark and we look forward to presenting him with the Trophy when we next convene.
NIGEL HOWCHIN R.I.P
It is with much regret and sadness we learned of Nigel's passing this week, after he suffered a stroke recently, but appeared to be recovering. Nigel was a past Captain, friend of Forrester Park, FIGS and to us all. He battled several challenges in his life, but always bravely and with a remarkable, cheerful spirit. Rest in peace, Nigel, our thoughts are with you and your family and your memory was honoured around the course at Hintlesham this week, and will be again during FP's club competition this Sunday (13th) at 11.00am.
ERIC BARKER R.I.P
On Friday April 30th it was announced that sadly Eric lost his battle with illness that had been so bravely and cheerfully fought over several months. All our thoughts are with his family and those who played with him regularly both at FP and FIGS. Eric was regarded universally as a friend and a gentleman and we'll miss his uncomplaining and cheeky companionship. Eric's funeral will be held on Thursday June 3rd - arrangements, including the facility to view online, are posted on the VETS website.
Final’s Day, Gosfield, Thurs. May 27th
Brilliant weather greeted us for our final event at Gosfield and the day was a fitting end to our season - 30 players took part, guests Kevin Myers, Robert Goodwin and Dennis Cornwell joined us for the post-match meal with the surroundings and arrangements superbly managed by Gosfield's attentive staff.
The day's competition saw the major placements all settled on count-back with just one point separating first and fourth, but it was David Gillespie who finally scooped the top-spot with 35 points. Realistically, only Kristian Collins was in a position to topple Clive Walby from the leader-board pole position, but with both players carding the same score, we congratulated Clive on his season's victory and the award of the Robert Goodwin Shield. The overall, final Leader-board positions can be found here.
Despite the challenges posed by the ever-changing Covid restrictions, we managed four events this season, with numbers averaging over 31 per event. A full accounting report will be presented as per usual at the start of our next series in October, when hopefully, the pandemic will be behind us and we can look forward to a full programme of FIGS golf once again.
Winter Season 2019-20
The programme for our new Winter Season has been finalised - please see here for details!
Then came Covid-19...!
Well, the pandemic had actually been threatening for a while and as our Clacton event (19th March) drew nearer, there were understandable doubts about what was going to happen. Cancellations were beginning to come in from amongst those who had indicated their wish to play and the club wanted firm numbers to assist their catering. In the end, the decision was taken to scrub the event, although several members did form their own four-balls and enjoyed a private game by the sea nevertheless!
Writing this in hindsight, of course we know now that national lockdown was introduced a few days later, so golf ceased abruptly along with most other aspects of daily life and didn't return until the end of June.
With two events to go, Mark Jeffery was 6 points clear at the top of the leaderboard but several players could, in mathematical theory, overtake him with strong performances in both final rounds - assuming of course, Mark didn't also have one or two strong performances of his own! In expectation that FIGS would resume in the autumn as lockdown eased, we considered how we might conclude the 2019-20 season in tandem with that for 2020-21. However, with local lockdowns beginning to emerge, and fears about 'second-waves' abounding, it was decided to finalise the standings on the results of the completed five events - on the balance of probabilities, it looked unlikely that Mark's total would be beaten, so Mark was declared champion for 2019-20 and we hope to make a fresh start with the next season in October.
Then came Covid-19...!
Well, the pandemic had actually been threatening for a while and as our Clacton event (19th March) drew nearer, there were understandable doubts about what was going to happen. Cancellations were beginning to come in from amongst those who had indicated their wish to play and the club wanted firm numbers to assist their catering. In the end, the decision was taken to scrub the event, although several members did form their own four-balls and enjoyed a private game by the sea nevertheless!
Writing this in hindsight, of course we know now that national lockdown was introduced a few days later, so golf ceased abruptly along with most other aspects of daily life and didn't return until the end of June.
With two events to go, Mark Jeffery was 6 points clear at the top of the leaderboard but several players could, in mathematical theory, overtake him with strong performances in both final rounds - assuming of course, Mark didn't also have one or two strong performances of his own! In expectation that FIGS would resume in the autumn as lockdown eased, we considered how we might conclude the 2019-20 season in tandem with that for 2020-21. However, with local lockdowns beginning to emerge, and fears about 'second-waves' abounding, it was decided to finalise the standings on the results of the completed five events - on the balance of probabilities, it looked unlikely that Mark's total would be beaten, so Mark was declared champion for 2019-20 and we hope to make a fresh start with the next season in October.
Winter Season 2018-2019 Finals Day, Gosfield
A return to Gosfield for this year's finale and once again we were pleased to welcome Dennis and Robert to share the occasion. And as per last year, a bit on the chilly side, but stayed dry by and large to see a field of 28 contest the day's prizes and, of course, the overall title and one's name on the shield!
Several players were in the running for top spot and the day's winner was Simon Collins with 42 points. This took his total to 114 for the season - oh so close, but one short of Phil Prior's 115 (36 on the day) and a point which would have handed Simon the title on countback! Nevertheless, congratulations to Phil for a tremendous season and his (at least?) third appearance on the silverware. Robert duly did the honours at the presentation.
Win or lose, Gosfield once again proved a popular venue, always a welcoming course and a Carvery meal afterwards beyond compare.
In total, 226 players contested the winter courses this season, an average of over 32 per event and a record(?) 40 at Brett Vale! Thanks to all for the banter, good sportsmanship and (sometimes!) sublime golf. Thanks also to Captain Buzz for his generous donations to the prize funds throughout the season. Time for a rest? - I don't think so, only a few short months to get your handicap sorted ready to do it again in October - look forward to seeing you then!
Update to the Report above, 08/05/19
It has come to light that Phil unfortunately played the final round at Gosfield with an incorrect handicap. As a result, he has to be disqualified, his score disregarded from the final standings, and consequently, Simon Collins’ overall score of 114 points for the season wins the Goodwin Shield.
Phil’s fourth place with 36 points on the day was determined on count-back, so that now goes to Brian Stafford – no other prizes or results are affected. The final Leader Board is here. We will make a formal presentation to Simon in due course, probably at the start of the next Winter season, when sufficient of us are gathered to recognise his achievement.
I should point out that Phil’s was an innocent mistake and wouldn’t have come to light without he himself bringing it forward. I am entirely satisfied there was nothing improper intended and am grateful to Phil for his honesty in seeing the season’s Shield and day’s prizes awarded to the rightful winners.
Congratulations Simon – a fighting final round at Gosfield and a deserved champion!
Several players were in the running for top spot and the day's winner was Simon Collins with 42 points. This took his total to 114 for the season - oh so close, but one short of Phil Prior's 115 (36 on the day) and a point which would have handed Simon the title on countback! Nevertheless, congratulations to Phil for a tremendous season and his (at least?) third appearance on the silverware. Robert duly did the honours at the presentation.
Win or lose, Gosfield once again proved a popular venue, always a welcoming course and a Carvery meal afterwards beyond compare.
In total, 226 players contested the winter courses this season, an average of over 32 per event and a record(?) 40 at Brett Vale! Thanks to all for the banter, good sportsmanship and (sometimes!) sublime golf. Thanks also to Captain Buzz for his generous donations to the prize funds throughout the season. Time for a rest? - I don't think so, only a few short months to get your handicap sorted ready to do it again in October - look forward to seeing you then!
Update to the Report above, 08/05/19
It has come to light that Phil unfortunately played the final round at Gosfield with an incorrect handicap. As a result, he has to be disqualified, his score disregarded from the final standings, and consequently, Simon Collins’ overall score of 114 points for the season wins the Goodwin Shield.
Phil’s fourth place with 36 points on the day was determined on count-back, so that now goes to Brian Stafford – no other prizes or results are affected. The final Leader Board is here. We will make a formal presentation to Simon in due course, probably at the start of the next Winter season, when sufficient of us are gathered to recognise his achievement.
I should point out that Phil’s was an innocent mistake and wouldn’t have come to light without he himself bringing it forward. I am entirely satisfied there was nothing improper intended and am grateful to Phil for his honesty in seeing the season’s Shield and day’s prizes awarded to the rightful winners.
Congratulations Simon – a fighting final round at Gosfield and a deserved champion!
Winter Season 2017-2018 Finals Day, Gosfield
With the weather still unseasonably grey, Gosfield was unexpectedly damp underfoot, but only one temporary green made for a very playable course. It was good to be able to welcome Dennis Cornwell, Robert Goodwin and Colin Loveridge to share our finals day and also to have Gosfield Captain Graham Hurrell in addition to our Captain Dave Brooker. Thanks to both for their generosity in donating their course courtesies to society funds and indeed to Dave for having done so throughout the season.
With widespread pick 'n place, there were some high scores on the day, and your organiser surprised both himself and the field with a 44 to take the day's crown. As fate would have it, two of the contenders for becoming season's champion were in the final group, but it was Steve Austwick who roared up the Leaderboard to claim the ultimate prize also with a 44 on the day, 120 overall. Congratulations to Steve, his name will be added to the Robert Goodwin Shield.
The day concluded with a handsome two-course carvery meal and our thanks to Gosfield for their hospitality, catering and greens-staff. Check out where you came in the standings and view also results from previous years here. Could've done better...? Well, we'll be doing it all again starting October, so get practising and look forward to seeing you then!
With widespread pick 'n place, there were some high scores on the day, and your organiser surprised both himself and the field with a 44 to take the day's crown. As fate would have it, two of the contenders for becoming season's champion were in the final group, but it was Steve Austwick who roared up the Leaderboard to claim the ultimate prize also with a 44 on the day, 120 overall. Congratulations to Steve, his name will be added to the Robert Goodwin Shield.
The day concluded with a handsome two-course carvery meal and our thanks to Gosfield for their hospitality, catering and greens-staff. Check out where you came in the standings and view also results from previous years here. Could've done better...? Well, we'll be doing it all again starting October, so get practising and look forward to seeing you then!
Winter Season 2016-2017 Finals Day, Bury
The 7-match series concluded on April 27th with our Finals Day at Bury St Edmunds Golf Club. Through the months of October-April we averaged over 26 players per event and welcomed 5 new players to our ranks - we continued to enjoy the company of elder-statesmen Colin and Dennis and our thanks go to Club Captain Carl for donating his courtesy-of-the-course fees to the prize-fund, which returned over £1400 to members under the Society's not-for-profit format.
A Bury course in fine condition once again proved popular despite blustery winds, but which didn't deter Bas from celebrating his recovery from injury with a 40-point victory on the day. However, triumphant over the season was Robert Goodwin Shield winner Phil Prior, whose 'best-three' 122 points marked a new record over the past eight seasons (and the only man to win the top-dog spot twice in that time) - congratulations to Phil!
We look forward now to next month's Spring Tour to Surrey and then further to October when we'll reconvene to do it all again. 41 players competed this past year and if you'd like to see how far behind Phil you finished up, click here to see the final standings!
Happy Golfing!
F.I.G.S Tours
- Previous tours have included courses (abroad) in and around Le Touquet, Waterloo, Deauville and (UK) Bournemouth, Portsmouth, Bristol, Norwich, Daventry, Maidstone, Louth, Leeds, Havant, Nottingham and Worthing.
The first three days feature both individual and team competitions, nearest the pins, etc. and a blind draw - individual scores are carried over to the fourth day for the finale and Tour Cup. The odd beer may get drunk along the way...
FIGS Tour 2014
2015 Tour, 1st-4th May
2016 Tour, 29th April - 2nd May
This year's Tour saw 16 players travel to Hampshire, firstly to South Winchester GC, then to our base at Meon Valley, where we played the course twice but with a round at Stoneham in between. Weather was generally benign, some rain on day one and again towards the end of the final day. However, none fell in the bar, so that was alright...
Our Saturday 'night out' was revealed as a meal at a pub in Havant, followed by two hours of dark and totally politically-incorrect comedy, courtesy of stand-up Andrew Lawrence, at the nearby Spring Arts Theatre. If you somehow failed to take issue with what was said there, then our own "Fines-meister" Pat ensured one's humiliation was made complete as he demanded payment for the weekend's gaffes and misdemeanours!
Along the way, we actually hit some golf balls sufficient to crown Dave Brooker with the title of (14th) Tour Champion, with a score of 139 after a final round of 40, previous to which only 8 points separated the top ten going into the final day. To see where you came, and where your money went, click here.
See also here for a record of previous Winter and Tour Trophy winners - only one person has held both in a single year (October-May), and that was Chris Collins in 2008/09. There's a few gaps to be filled in, so if you can assist, please let me know!
As always, good fun, good golf and good memories made amongst friends - we'll be doing it all again next year, and if you'd like to be part of it, please get in touch!
DRG
Our Saturday 'night out' was revealed as a meal at a pub in Havant, followed by two hours of dark and totally politically-incorrect comedy, courtesy of stand-up Andrew Lawrence, at the nearby Spring Arts Theatre. If you somehow failed to take issue with what was said there, then our own "Fines-meister" Pat ensured one's humiliation was made complete as he demanded payment for the weekend's gaffes and misdemeanours!
Along the way, we actually hit some golf balls sufficient to crown Dave Brooker with the title of (14th) Tour Champion, with a score of 139 after a final round of 40, previous to which only 8 points separated the top ten going into the final day. To see where you came, and where your money went, click here.
See also here for a record of previous Winter and Tour Trophy winners - only one person has held both in a single year (October-May), and that was Chris Collins in 2008/09. There's a few gaps to be filled in, so if you can assist, please let me know!
As always, good fun, good golf and good memories made amongst friends - we'll be doing it all again next year, and if you'd like to be part of it, please get in touch!
DRG
2017 Tour - Selsdon Park
Another year another successful tour (I hope).
16 of us (can you spot us all in the pictures) made the trip down to Selsdon Manor for the 2017 FIGs Tour.
Our first venue, Purley Downs, was as super course with a lot of Ups(and Downs) as well. The greens were like lightening catching a few of us out hence the best score, David Ayres, of 34 points recorded for the day a few others made the thirties but the majority in the mid twenties, worst score of the day going to, no I must not mention names but Paul Messenger did try hard (oooppss!!).
The second day we played the hotel course, again a fine test of golf, slower greens, but lots of interesting holes. Scores for the day were better with most of us reaching the mid thirties and Mr Gillespie taking the day with 37 points from David Ayres on 36. Then on to the evening with David Ayres and John Luxford wearing the Chelsea team shirts and sitting in the front row to watch the football. They both had faces that looked as though they had been slapped by a wet fish by the end of the evening but none of us laughed (much). Then it was on the Tandori for a slap up meal and very nice too it turned out to be.
Day three was moving day David Ayres had a 5 point lead and we were all determined to catch him. After a three min drive to the golf club, Farleigh, and what seemed a 20 min drive to the club house we all arrived safely at the first tee. Again the greens were very fast and the course all be it young was a test of skill one which Mr Walby took by the horns and beat with 39 points. Poor Mr Ayres didn't fair so well after turning into his alter ego Mr Grumpy and only potting 30 points, The leaderboard was now wide open.
The last day was to be at Selsdon park, off the white tees (just to make it more interesting). Joint leaders Mr Royan and Mr Stovell drawn in the same group with Mr Ayres only 1 point behind and 7 other players only 4 behind that, the trophy was up for grabs.
On the day Clive (Buzz) Walby was the winner with a stonking 39 points but it wasn’t enough to take the trophy. Kevin Royan was playing steady and even with a couple of blobs (and a ‘Sick’ in more ways than one Ron Stovell) managed 36 points putting him in the lead. Only one contender was left out on the course who could beat him. Mr Grumpy. It was very tense in the club house as the final scores were read out and the prizes were awarded for the day. But what of the overall trophy I hear you cry. Well as it was I who was handing out the awards I tried to forget the overall trophy but somebody reminded me I had not presented it (thanks David G). So it was with great dismay on my part I had to award it to Mr grumpy, Dave Ayres who had beat me on count back. There were gasps in the club house and many tears shed but Oh well maybe next year.
I shall look forward to seeing you all again wherever we go and maybe a few others will join our happy band.
Keep golfing. keep smiling, its only a game! Till next year
Kevin
(for more images, see "Gallery")
2018 Tour - Nottingham
Our next Tour will be based around Nottingham, scheduled for the second bank-holiday weekend in May. After his resounding success in organising the 2017 event, Kevin Royan will again be be MC and if you are interested in participating, please contact Kev for further details.
2022 Tour - Worthing
Congratulations to Kevin R, Kevin M and Clive for another sparkling event on the South Coast. With Tour plans interrupted and forcibly modified by the pandemic, 20 enjoyed the excellent courses and the facilities of the Norfolk Arms Hotel in Arundel.
Amazingly, following the conclusion of the Winter season events which went down to the wire and were eventually decided on count-back, so it was with this year's Tour too - another dramatic finish and another count-back decision which saw Chris Hurrell lift the coveted trophy.
See here for Kevin's end-of-Tour report and to see where you finished (even if you have since tried to forget...!)
Roll on next year!
2023 Tour - Hertfordshire, May 25th-28th
Another successful outing by the FIGs this time to Rickmansworth and surrounding
area.
First stop Mill Hill Golf Club, a nice flat easy course (according to Mr Myers), I think
there should have been a clue in the golf club name Mill Hill, and as for easy with only
half the group scoring 30 point plus it proved a little difficult. The greens I would say
were a tad speedier than at the royal and putting with a square ball would have been
more successful for most of us.
The day was won with a very impressive score of 35 points from Mr Jeffery closely
followed by 34 points from Mr Atkinson, Mr Ayres and Mr Hurrell. With all four scores
to count the team Led by Team Captain Pat Crace and his merry men Jeff Atkinson,
Mark Jeffery and Simon Harding won the team prize for the day. The lowest score of
the day going to Paul Messenger with 23 points, could anybody get lower on day two?
Blind Draw Winner Jeff Atkinson taking home more money than the winner!!
All safely booked in at the hotel it was off to ZAZA Italian for some well earned
refreshments, lots of food, beer, and red wine. It was only a short walk from the hotel
but I seem to Remember (not) that it was much longer on the way home.
Day two, Stanmore Golf Club, Much easier says Kev, a little undulating, if yesterdays
flat course was anything to go by we all assumed we’d need our mountain
climbing gear.
Again a superb choice of golf course with lots of trees, wide fairways and very fast
greens, was it the night before or the difficult course that made the scores tumble a bit
(hmmm). A mere trifle for Mr Gillespie with 35 points pipping John Luxford and Dave
Ratchford both on 34. Steve Brewington captained his team by leading from the front,
his fellow members Dave Ayres, Dave Ratchford and Pat Crace following in his wake
to take the Team prize best three from 4. They even had the ball of shame in their
team, Pat Crace with a new all time low 15 points (surely this can’t be beaten,
or can it).
Can you believe it, Blind Draw Winner Jeff Atkinson (again) pocketing loads of money,
come on boys drink up!!
Day three what could possibly go wrong. Essendon Golf Club, Old Course, not as long
as the other courses but a bit tighter, no room for spraying the ball about here. Scores
reflected the course being that bit easier than the last two, the greens were a little bit
more forgiving. Winner on the day Mr Royan with 40 points just pipping Mr Gillespie
with 39 (I’ll have that fiver Dave). Clive Walby had already said the night before he
was going to lead his team to victory and true to his word Victory it was for Clive, Kevin
Royan, Chris Hurrell and Martin Burling in the difficult all 4 score on Par three 3 score
on Par 4 and 2 Score on Par 5 format. The ball of shame was won by John Luxford with
a very respectable score of 27 points (he would have been mid table on any other day,
unlucky john).
Blind Draw went to Jeff - oooops no - Pat Crace (he needed the money).
Things were now hotting up in the title race with David Gillespie and David Ratchford
both on 104 closely followed by Kevin Royan on 103 and Dave Ayres on 102. What
would tomorrow bring!
Final day, Hartsbourne Golf Club, another Flat with big hills courses that Kev was so
proud of, undulating greens (were did I put my square ball) that you couldn’t hold a ball
on, but apart from that nice an easy. Team game today was 2 from 4 (we were all a bit
tired, so lets keep in nice). Team 1 came through as winners on the day. Led by their
captain Mark Jeffery who was making his bid for the title, did he do enough? His team
mate David Ratchford also making his bid for the title , this was all getting a bit close.
Other team members Steve Barraclough and Clive Walby just happy to have won some
money on the day. Things were hotting up in the title race for the ball of shame surely
no one could beat Pat’s all time low of 15 points but then in comes Paul Messenger with
an outstanding 12 points to take the title from Pat, well played Paul.
All the scores were in, winner on the day was Mark Jeffery with 33 (cut to 31 for his
previous win) by the narrowest margin from Roy Sayer also on 31.
Mark had pushed his total score to 127, losing out on third place to David Gillespie on
130. Dave Ratchford and Kevin Royan both on 133, cards had to be scrutinised
carefully, count back Dave on 29 for the day Kevin pipping Dave with 30, just enough
to take the title. What an exciting finish to a great tour.
Now dare I mention the Blind Draw, I suppose I will have to, he was very popular, can
you believe it Jeff Atkinson for the third time took the money. We were all so pleased
for him :)
Special thanks go out to my team, Clive Walby for the Hotel and restaurant organisation
and also to Kevin Myers for the choosing of the courses, both have done a fantastic
job, thank you
Signing off until next year
Kevin Royan
PS Jim Chisholm was the only person who didn’t win any money :)
To see the final scores summary, please click here
To see who won what and when, click here.
To see an Accounts summary for the whole Tour, click here
_____________________________________________________________________________
2022 Tour - Worthing
Congratulations to Kevin R, Kevin M and Clive for another sparkling event on the South Coast. With Tour plans interrupted and forcibly modified by the pandemic, 20 enjoyed the excellent courses and the facilities of the Norfolk Arms Hotel in Arundel.
Amazingly, following the conclusion of the Winter season events which went down to the wire and were eventually decided on count-back, so it was with this year's Tour too - another dramatic finish and another count-back decision which saw Chris Hurrell lift the coveted trophy.
See here for Kevin's end-of-Tour report and to see where you finished (even if you have since tried to forget...!)
Roll on next year!
2023 Tour - Hertfordshire, May 25th-28th
Another successful outing by the FIGs this time to Rickmansworth and surrounding
area.
First stop Mill Hill Golf Club, a nice flat easy course (according to Mr Myers), I think
there should have been a clue in the golf club name Mill Hill, and as for easy with only
half the group scoring 30 point plus it proved a little difficult. The greens I would say
were a tad speedier than at the royal and putting with a square ball would have been
more successful for most of us.
The day was won with a very impressive score of 35 points from Mr Jeffery closely
followed by 34 points from Mr Atkinson, Mr Ayres and Mr Hurrell. With all four scores
to count the team Led by Team Captain Pat Crace and his merry men Jeff Atkinson,
Mark Jeffery and Simon Harding won the team prize for the day. The lowest score of
the day going to Paul Messenger with 23 points, could anybody get lower on day two?
Blind Draw Winner Jeff Atkinson taking home more money than the winner!!
All safely booked in at the hotel it was off to ZAZA Italian for some well earned
refreshments, lots of food, beer, and red wine. It was only a short walk from the hotel
but I seem to Remember (not) that it was much longer on the way home.
Day two, Stanmore Golf Club, Much easier says Kev, a little undulating, if yesterdays
flat course was anything to go by we all assumed we’d need our mountain
climbing gear.
Again a superb choice of golf course with lots of trees, wide fairways and very fast
greens, was it the night before or the difficult course that made the scores tumble a bit
(hmmm). A mere trifle for Mr Gillespie with 35 points pipping John Luxford and Dave
Ratchford both on 34. Steve Brewington captained his team by leading from the front,
his fellow members Dave Ayres, Dave Ratchford and Pat Crace following in his wake
to take the Team prize best three from 4. They even had the ball of shame in their
team, Pat Crace with a new all time low 15 points (surely this can’t be beaten,
or can it).
Can you believe it, Blind Draw Winner Jeff Atkinson (again) pocketing loads of money,
come on boys drink up!!
Day three what could possibly go wrong. Essendon Golf Club, Old Course, not as long
as the other courses but a bit tighter, no room for spraying the ball about here. Scores
reflected the course being that bit easier than the last two, the greens were a little bit
more forgiving. Winner on the day Mr Royan with 40 points just pipping Mr Gillespie
with 39 (I’ll have that fiver Dave). Clive Walby had already said the night before he
was going to lead his team to victory and true to his word Victory it was for Clive, Kevin
Royan, Chris Hurrell and Martin Burling in the difficult all 4 score on Par three 3 score
on Par 4 and 2 Score on Par 5 format. The ball of shame was won by John Luxford with
a very respectable score of 27 points (he would have been mid table on any other day,
unlucky john).
Blind Draw went to Jeff - oooops no - Pat Crace (he needed the money).
Things were now hotting up in the title race with David Gillespie and David Ratchford
both on 104 closely followed by Kevin Royan on 103 and Dave Ayres on 102. What
would tomorrow bring!
Final day, Hartsbourne Golf Club, another Flat with big hills courses that Kev was so
proud of, undulating greens (were did I put my square ball) that you couldn’t hold a ball
on, but apart from that nice an easy. Team game today was 2 from 4 (we were all a bit
tired, so lets keep in nice). Team 1 came through as winners on the day. Led by their
captain Mark Jeffery who was making his bid for the title, did he do enough? His team
mate David Ratchford also making his bid for the title , this was all getting a bit close.
Other team members Steve Barraclough and Clive Walby just happy to have won some
money on the day. Things were hotting up in the title race for the ball of shame surely
no one could beat Pat’s all time low of 15 points but then in comes Paul Messenger with
an outstanding 12 points to take the title from Pat, well played Paul.
All the scores were in, winner on the day was Mark Jeffery with 33 (cut to 31 for his
previous win) by the narrowest margin from Roy Sayer also on 31.
Mark had pushed his total score to 127, losing out on third place to David Gillespie on
130. Dave Ratchford and Kevin Royan both on 133, cards had to be scrutinised
carefully, count back Dave on 29 for the day Kevin pipping Dave with 30, just enough
to take the title. What an exciting finish to a great tour.
Now dare I mention the Blind Draw, I suppose I will have to, he was very popular, can
you believe it Jeff Atkinson for the third time took the money. We were all so pleased
for him :)
Special thanks go out to my team, Clive Walby for the Hotel and restaurant organisation
and also to Kevin Myers for the choosing of the courses, both have done a fantastic
job, thank you
Signing off until next year
Kevin Royan
PS Jim Chisholm was the only person who didn’t win any money :)
To see the final scores summary, please click here
To see who won what and when, click here.
To see an Accounts summary for the whole Tour, click here
_____________________________________________________________________________