Report of HAGS-UK outing to Old Thorns, Liphook
8/9 August 2007
The outing to Old Thorns, Liphook on 8/9 August was a great success. The weather was very kind, thanks again to the influence current and past HAGS Chairmen have traditionally had with the weather gods.
For the record, the results were:
Day 1 Texas Scramble:
Winners: Corbyn, Green, Messling, White - 78 gross
Runners-up: Carpenter, French, Lawrence - 79
Third: Thomas, Thompson, Ward, Wood - 81
Nearest pin (4): Mike
Corbyn
Longest drive (9): Nigel French
Day 2 Individual Stableford:
Winner: Les Thompson (29 points)
Runner-up: Nigel French (26 points)
Nearest
pin (4): Bryan White
Longest drive (9): Les Thompson
As can be seen from the winning scores in the individual stableford competition, even in near perfect weather conditions, the course was tough, with some very fast and tricky greens. However, it was also stunningly beautiful and in immaculate condition, while offering some great views of the surrounding countryside from the two main high points - the fifth and seventeenth tees. Unfortunately reaching these viewpoints involved some serious climbing - hence the choice of most to take buggies on Day 2.
The accommodation and other facilities at Old Thorns came up to the HAGS' exacting standards. The meal (a carvery) was first class. As previously agreed, the cost of the wine and coffees at dinner (£116.75 - receipt on file) was charged to the generous contribution from the Hong Kong HAGS (to which I have added John Herbert's kind contribution of £14 from his refund following his late cancellation). That leaves £132.25 in the "slush fund" for next year.
As discussed, arrangements for next year will be put in hand in due course on the same basis as this year ie:
- Date: 1st or 2nd week in August
- Location: South of the M4 or maybe a bit further north if a suitable venue is found
- Golf course with on-site accommodation
- Standard of accommodation: Preferably 4* hotel or equivalent (or better if price is right)
- Golf: Texas scramble on Day 1 and Individual stableford (main comp) of Day 2
- Prizes: To be provided by organiser, subject to small (<£5) contribution from members attending