Don Beck writes writes:
Despite Covid and the wettest summer I can remember 12 of the top GC players assembled at Surbiton for this annual tournament. Unfortunately the rain had left another 20mm on very wet ground and all the lawns were under water. Play was abandoned for the Saturday. This led to a revised format of an all play all American block for the seven hardy players who optimistically had decided to play on the Sunday. The grounds staff of Mr and Mrs Dibben were seen at 7am checking the lawns and laying out 4 courts.
The Managers had early morning discussions and thought there would be play but it was not sure how many and how long the interrruptions would be. It turned out that we had continuous play through the day.
The British Open Gc champion, Aston Wade looked very good in the early roundswith some impressive success on his clearances and running the hoops with ease.The Burridges, Ian and Euan, father and son, were close behind in performance but not quite as consistent.
Post lunch and the momentum changed. Tony Butcher sprung a surprise, not least for himself, against Aston winning 7-2. This opened the door for the Burridges. And when Aston lost his final match against Lionel Tibble it was left for the "B " Team to to decide who would win the event.
By luck or masterful planning they were due to play each other in the final round of the block and the start was delayed so all could enjoy the final. <
The final seesawed beteween the two and went all the way to hoop 13. Faced with Euan in the jaws Ian had a jump shot from mid-range for victory.It was not to be and he promoted Euan's ball, Euan winning 7-6 and retaining the trophy.
Perhaps itwas the adversity of 2020/21 and the miserable weather of late but all the players thoroughly enjoyed the day. The lawns played very well, the weather was kind and the company excellent.
| Updated 2.vii.22 |
|